Some leading manufactures vertically integrate wholesale functions in order to control those functions. Based on transaction cost analysis (TCA) and capability approach, this research proposes a conceptual framework why manufactures integrate wholesale functions or not. Specifically, it is suggested that human asset specificity and teachability positively related with vertical integration, while outside wholesaler know-how negatively related with vertical integration. Empirical analysis shows that decision on integration of wholesale functions are influenced by TCA and capability factors.

Large retailers use strategic alliances with suppliers in order to obtain customized distribution services from the suppliers. Forming strategic alliances with large retailers requires suppliers to make relationship-specific investments in the retailers. Transaction cost analysis suggests that the investments create a potential of hold up and discourage suppliers from forming the alliance. This study considers that regulatory focus of suppliers is a determinant of forming strategic alliance. It hypothesizes that promotion-focused suppliers are likely to accept an uncertain alliance with larger retailers even if it requires them to make relationship-specific investments. On the other hand, it is suggested that prevention-focused suppliers are unlikely to accept the same offer under the same conditions.

Mechanochemical synthesis of zinc ferrite, ZnFe2O4, was attempted from a powder mixture of iron (III) oxide, alpha-Fe2O3 and zinc (II) oxide, ZnO. Nanocrystalline zinc ferrite, ZnFe2O4 powders were successfully synthesized only bymilling for 30 hours. Evidence of the ZnFe2O4 formation was absent for the powders milled for 10 and 20 hours; the milling lowered the crystallinity of the starting materials. Heating after milling enhanced the formation of ZnFe2O4, crystal growth of ZnFe2O4 and the unreacted starting materials. The unreacted starting materials decreased their amounts by heating at higher temperatures.

Carbonaceous thin films were prepared from acetylene and argon gases by plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition (Plasma CVD) at 873 K. The carbonaceous thin films were characterized by mainly Raman spectroscopy, and their electrochemical properties were studied by cyclic voltammetry and charge-discharge measurements in propylene carbonate (PC) solution. Raman spectra showed that crystallinity of carbonaceous thin films is correlated by the applied RF power. The difference of the applied RF power also affected on the results of cyclic voltammetry and charge-discharge measurements. In PC solution, intercalation and de-intercalation of lithium ion can occur as well as in the mixed solution of EC and DEC.