bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of the catastrophe theory in ascertainment of vertical bearing capacity of single pile
Authors: Huang Jinlin , Li Zhangming , Tang Guihe
Published: October 2008

Purpose

Catastrophe theory can directly deal with discontinuity without any connection with the special inner mechanism, which makes it suitable for system research, whose inner action is unknown but outer one can be observed. There are many inner factors, which affect the bearing capacity of pile, it is different to ascertain bearing capacity of pile. The purpose of this paper is to present a new calculation method of bearing capacity of pile by the catastrophe theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The cusp model of catastrophe theory and its expression are discussed in this paper. By means of mechanical model analysis, bearing capacity of pile is systematically studied coupling catastrophe steady mechanism with equilibrium conditions of single pile. The settlement of top pile is transformed into the normal form of cusp catastrophe. The relationship between the settlement of top pile and vertical bearing capability of pile is built.

Findings

Vertical bearing capacity of single pile was deduced by means of energy principle and catastrophe theory based on settlement of critical instability of pile.

Research limitations/implications

Accessibility and availability of the constitutive equation of concrete of pile and parameter are the main limitations which model will be applied.

Practical implications

A very useful reference for design processes engineers.

Originality/value

The estimated results of the example correspond to one of practical experience, which provides a basis for design of vertical bearing capacity of single pile.
Theoretical model and application of multilevel modeling in the research of social system
Authors: Jin Yanghua , Nie Biao , Xiao Yuchun
Published: October 2008

Purpose

To identify the typical multilevel issues in social science, as well as illustrate the theoretical basis, hierarchical models and empirical exemplars of multilevel paradigm.

Design/methodology/approach

Hierarchical and multilevel data are extremely common in social systems, but multilevel analysis is constrained by statistical techniques. With the development of social system theory and empirical methods such as hierarchical structure modeling and latent growth modeling, multilevel paradigm can be used to analyze multilevel data. So it is necessary to identify typical multilevel phenomena in social science and discuss multilevel modeling techniques.

Findings

This paper identifies four typical multilevel phenomena in social system study: hierarchical and clustered sampling, collective construct research, longitudinal repeated measures, and event history analysis. Hierarchical structure modeling and latent growth modeling are effective multilevel analysis techniques in social science because of their advantages in the integration of social system research.

Research limitations/implications

The quality and availability of multilevel data are the main limitations regarding which model will be applied.

Practical implications

The paper can aid the provision of effective multilevel models to social workers.

Originality/value

This paper provides information on application of multilevel modeling in social science.
Certain martingale methods of parameter estimation in dynamic system
Authors: Fanliang Kong , Guizhi Wang , Yu Ping
Published: October 2008

Purpose

To find martingale theory and methods of parameter vector estimation of multidimensional linear control system in dynamic system.

Design/methodology/approach

In parameter vector estimation of dynamic system, due to the limitation of conventional methods, the authors study the iterative formula and consistency of parameter vector estimation using the theory and methods of martingale, and extend its application field.

Findings

Some conditions of strongly consistent estimation and iterative formula are obtained. And the consistency of parameter vector estimation in multidimensional linear control system is discussed.

Practical implications

Solved some practical problems of parameter vector estimation in dynamic system.

Originality/value

The paper solve the accuracy problem of parameter vector estimation of multidimensional linear control system in dynamic system and extend parameter vector estimation application field.
A new technique of non‐linear statistic prediction and its application in atmospheric systems
Authors: Yushou Kong , Lingling Ji , Changyu Wang , Liguo Li , Liming Zeng
Published: October 2008

Purpose

To forecast the path of tropic cyclones by using a non‐linear statistical forecasting technique – the method of successive analogy.

Design/methodology/approach

Non‐linear statistical forecasting models can describe the non‐linear relationship between the factors and the forecasting objects and the real atmospheric movement more accurately, so they usually have stronger forecasting capability. In practice, however, it is shown that the relationships between predictors and predictands sometimes are so complex that it is very difficult or even impossible to establish the kind of non‐linear mathematical model. Therefore, it is an important topic for atmospheric science to solve non‐linear prediction problem of atmospheric systems by using the non‐function model approach.

Findings

The objective and quantitative prediction of tropical cyclone moving path can be given by using the method of successive analogy, a non‐linear forecasting technique, and calculating the similarity parameters between the grayscale field and the height field.

Research limitations/implications

Further experiments are needed to verify this technique.

Practical implications

A very useful technique for solving non‐linear problem.

Originality/value

Illustrates the new technique of solving non‐linear statistic problem and its application.
Human influenza: a virus classification using a probabilistic neural network
Authors: Kou Zheng , Zhou Yanhong , Qiang Xiaoli
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The traditional method to distinguish the serotype of influenza A virus was based on the antigen reaction of HA and NA with their antibodies. The antibody of specific subtype virus was difficult to get and the reaction was not easy to be done. To be a complementation to the traditional classification methods based on the serological reaction, aims to present a novel method for viral classification.

Design/methodology/approach

The similarity values of all subtype HA genes in vector space were considered and classified using a probabilistic neural network (PNN). The PNN model was trained by the 132 viral sequences in the training set and the classification quality was examined using 28 viral sequences in the testing set.

Findings

A novel technique for the serotype classification of influenza A virus isolated from human was proposed in the paper. The system achieved 100 per cent accuracy with all serotypes of human influenza A virus.

Research limitations/implications

The time for the large‐scale calculations of the average similarity based on multisequence alignment is the main limitation.

Practical implications

This is a supplementation to the traditional virology research.

Originality/value

The novel classification method based on the similarity of viral nucleotide sequences and the PNN model would be useful for the epidemic supervision and prevention.
Multiplicative perturbations of incomplete second order abstract differential equations
Authors: Li Fang
Published: October 2008

Purpose

To study the multiplicative perturbation of local C‐regularized cosine functions associated with the following incomplete second order abstract differential equations in a Banach space X u″(t)=A(I+B)u(t), u(0)=x, u′(0)=y,(*) where A is a closed linear operator on X and B is a bounded linear operator on X.

Design/methodology/approach

The multiplicative perturbation of exponentially bounded regularized C‐cosine functions is generally studied by the Laplace transformation. However, C‐cosine functions might not be exponentially bounded, so that the new method for the multiplicative perturbation of the nonexponentially bounded regularized C‐cosine functions should be applied. In this paper, the property of regularized C‐cosine functions is directly used to obtain the desired results.

Findings

The new results of the multiplicative perturbations of the nonexponentially bounded C‐cosine functions are obtained.

Originality/value

The new techniques differing from those given previously in the literature are employed to deduce the desired conclusions. The results can be applied to deal with incomplete second order abstract differential equations which stem from cybernetics, engineering, physics, etc.
Granularity research based on panweighted field of pansystems
Authors: Li Haixia , Lin He , Li Yongli , Wu Aiping
Published: October 2008

Purpose

In order to study granularity, this paper aims to discuss how to construct granules from the view of panweighted field of pansystem.

Design/methodology/approach

By changing the panweights of panweighted field – subdivision of panweights, increase/decrease of panweights and reallocating panweights, to construct proper granules is the approach taken.

Findings

This paper provides a new method of studying granularity. If the weights of panweighted field are subdivided, then the granularity diminishes; if the panweights of panweighted field are increased, then the corresponding granularity diminished. Contrarily, the decrease of panweights of panweighted field results in the corresponding granularity increased; by reallocating panweights, use different method to construct different granules, such as compatible class, neighbor operator, compatible core, s‐s core and so on.

Research limitations/implications

How to reallocate panweights is the main limitation.

Practical implications

A very useful advice for studying granularity.

Originality/value

This paper combines the granularity with panweighted field of pansystem, and studies granularity from the view of panweighted field of pansystems.
Discrete variable structure control and its application to ship autopilot
Authors: Li Huaishu , Song Lizhong , Lai Yanhui
Published: October 2008

Purpose

In order to improve performance robustness of control systems, the discrete variable structure control (VSC) design for uncertain systems and its application to a ship autopilot are to be discussed in this paper.

Design/methodology/approach

Discrete‐time variable structure control (DVSC) becomes worth investigating and various DVSC methods have been suggested by many papers. The approach that used the reaching law for controller design can describe how the switching function decreases toward zero and easier to obtain the control law, but this conventional method has some defects not to be ignored. First, due to the influence of the conventional discrete reaching law itself, the system trajectory oscillates in a neighborhood of the origin rather than converges to the origin. Second, this method requires that the uncertainty bound is known as a premise to assure robustness, so creates an over‐conservative controller and enlarges chattering.

Findings

It can be shown that the estimation error dynamics can be decoupled from sliding surface dynamics using the proposed scheme. Robust stability of the closed‐loop system can be ensured in the presence of uncertainties with bounded changing rate. No chattering occurs.

Practical implications

To supply useful references to controller design.

Originality/value

A new approach in the design of discrete VSC based on the reaching law approach is presented, a new discrete reaching law, which is stable at the origin, is proposed, and an algorithm for uncertainty estimation is developed in this paper. The proposed algorithm is applied to the control of a ship autopilot servo system. Simulation results show that the controller designed here can track a desired course well and exhibits very good performance robustness.
Application model of pseudo‐random correlation method in electrical prospecting
Authors: Li Mei , Wei Wen‐Bo , Deng Ming , Yuan Wen‐Ju , Zhang Qi‐Sheng
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The aim is to apply pseudo‐random correlation method to detect very weak electrical signals because of various natural and artificial electron‐magnetic interferences in electrical prospecting.

Design/methodology/approach

Electrical prospecting is an important method of geophysical exploration and the electrical prospecting instruments are required to detect very weak electrical signals against strong interferences. Recently, pseudo‐random correlation coding has been widely applied in telecommunications and measurement and test systems to improve the signal noise ratio with great success, but has not been used in electric prospecting. This paper theoretically investigated the application model of pseudo‐random correlation techniques in electrical prospecting.

Findings

The model of pseudo‐random correlation techniques in electrical prospecting, including its principle, detailed protocol and parameter selection, is established.

Practical implications

With the continuing improvement in the capacity of electrical prospecting transmitters, the pseudo‐random correlation method will be widely used in electrical prospecting.

Originality/value

The pseudo‐random correlation techniques is originally investigated for its application in electrical prospecting. This paper is aimed at researchers and engineers in geophysical exploration.
Spam and JavaScript, future of the web
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.

Design/methodology/approach

A means of preventing automated collection of e‐mail addresses from web sites, dating from 2001, is compared to a similar scheme developed independently at a later date. Discussions of the future of the web, particularly its extension as the Semantic Web, are reviewed. The influence of the internet is illustrated by reference to its part in a recent military decision.

Findings

There is choice of the precise method to be used to prevent automated collection of addresses from web sites. The world wide web is set to evolve into the Semantic Web. Despite notoriety in a particular context the Drudge report provides a valuable service.

Practical implications

Marginal advantages are claimed for my anti‐spam scheme over its predecessor, which however has the advantage of simplicity. The choice will be influenced by the view taken of possible developments in address‐gathering web‐crawlers. Development of the Semantic Web offers valuable and exciting prospects but does not displace web activities at less abstract levels. The Drudge report offers comprehensive access to current and recent news and is associated with an archive going back to 2001.

Originality/value

It is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.
Archives, mathematics encyclopaedia, dancing robots, ASC
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.

Design/methodology/approach

A massive archive facility is reviewed, as well as an online encyclopaedia devoted to mathematics. Developments in bipedal robot locomotion are discussed, with particular reference to dancing and running. Initiatives of the American Society for Cybernetics, involving Yahoo groups, are introduced and welcomed.

Findings

The archive facility is of astounding magnitude and comprehensiveness. The mathematics encyclopaedia is potentially useful, as are the ASC initiatives. Bipedal locomotion in robots is impressive but not perfect.

Practical implications

The archive facility must be a valuable tool for many forms of research, as well as for cultural and recreational use. The encyclopaedia and the ASC initiatives are all valuable facilities. Bipedal locomotion has been developed in response to a challenge, and to gain prestige, but may be useful in development of practical robots for rough terrain.

Originality/value

It is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.
Hybrid classification algorithms based on boosting and support vector machines
Authors: Turchetti Maia Thiago , Pádua Braga Antônio , de Carvalho André F.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

To create new hybrid algorithms that combine boosting and support vector machines to outperform other known algorithms in selected contexts of binary classification problems.

Design/methodology/approach

Support vector machines (SVM) are known in the literature to be one of the most efficient learning models for tackling classification problems. Boosting algorithms rely on other classification algorithms to produce different weak hypotheses which are later combined into a single strong hypothesis. In this work the authors combine boosting with support vector machines, namely the AdaBoost.M1 and sequential minimal optimization (SMO) algorithms, to create new hybrid algorithms that outperform standard SVMs in selected contexts. This is achieved by integration with different degrees of coupling, where the four algorithms proposed range from simple black‐box integration to modifications and mergers between AdaBoost.M1 and SMO components.

Findings

The results show that the proposed algorithms exhibited better performance for most problems experimented. It is possible to identify trends of behavior bound to specific properties of the problems solved, where one may hence apply the proposed algorithms in situations where it is known to succeed.

Research limitations/implications

New strategies for combining boosting and SVMs may be further developed using the principles introduced in this paper, possibly resulting in other algorithms with yet superior performance.

Practical implications

The hybrid algorithms proposed in this paper may be used in classification problems with properties that they are known to handle well, thus possibly offering better results than other known algorithms in the literature.

Originality/value

This paper introduces the concept of merging boosting and SVM training algorithms to obtain hybrid solutions with better performance than standard SVMs.
Scalability of the genetic hybrid algorithm on a parallel supercomputer
Authors: Östermark Ralf
Published: October 2008

Purpose

To demonstrate the scalability of the genetic hybrid algorithm (GHA) in monitoring a local neural network algorithm for difficult non‐linear/chaotic time series problems.

Design/methodology/approach

GHA is a general‐purpose algorithm, spanning several areas of mathematical problem solving. If needed, GHA invokes an accelerator function at key stages of the solution process, providing it with the current population of solution vectors in the argument list of the function. The user has control over the computational stage (generation of a new population, crossover, mutation etc) and can modify the population of solution vectors, e.g. by invoking special purpose algorithms through the accelerator channel. If needed, the steps of GHA can be partly or completely superseded by the special purpose mathematical/artificial intelligence‐based algorithm. The system can be used as a package for classical mathematical programming with the genetic sub‐block deactivated. On the other hand, the algorithm can be turned into a machinery for stochastic analysis (e.g. for Monte Carlo simulation, time series modelling or neural networks), where the mathematical programming and genetic computing facilities are deactivated or appropropriately adjusted. Finally, pure evolutionary computation may be activated for studying genetic phenomena. GHA contains a flexible generic multi‐computer framework based on MPI, allowing implementations of a wide range of parallel models.

Findings

The results indicate that GHA is scalable, yet due to the inherent stochasticity of neural networks and the genetic algorithm, the scalability evidence put forth in this paper is only indicative. The scalability of GHA follows from maximal node intelligence allowing minimal internodal communication in problems with independent computational blocks.

Originality/value

The paper shows that GHA can be effectively run on both sequential and parallel platforms. The multicomputer layout is based on maximizing the intelligence of the nodes – all nodes are provided with the same program and the available computational support libraries – and minimizing internodal communication, hence GHA does not limit the size of the mesh in problems with independent computational tasks.
A requisitely holistic approach to marketing in terms of social well‐being
Authors: Prosenak Damijan , Mulej Matjaž , Snoj Boris
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The paper aims to answer the following questions. Is marketing requisitely holistic? Marketing serves managers, governors, owners and employees as well as customers, suppliers and other stakeholders with its activities in order to help company increase well‐being of stakeholders. What about the broader society's well‐being and future? What will follow, once the innovative‐society phase of socio‐economic development creates affluence, which diminishes human ambition to work in order to have? Social responsibility might be the next step in achieving success.

Design/methodology/approach

There are new forms of marketing (e.g. societal marketing; relationship marketing; cause‐related marketing; and green marketing) that could help humans accomplishing this task, to some extent. Marketing will have to detect, elaborate and disseminate new data, along with using them for its action; the paper does not tackle the latter, but marketing taking into account the social responsibility of the company in order to help companies.

Findings

Companies will namely need more/requisitely holistic bases to develop innovative products, acceptable with social responsibility. Experience says that ethnographers, anthropologists, and other social scientists are becoming necessary in the “open innovation” model and the extremely demanding market of the affluent and nearly affluent society. So is a more systemic/holistic thinking and action of companies, including their marketing.

Originality/value

The paper suggests how marketing must adapt to meet new challenges.
Challenges in the adoption of visualization system: a survey
Authors: Folorunso Olusegun , Shawn Ogunseye Oluwafemi
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The need for maximum cognition from massive amounts of data is becoming explosive. Different visualization mechanisms are being introduced to achieve this aim. This paper aims to consider the state of organizations as regards being abreast with the recent visualization technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors look critically at the system adoption life cycle as it applied to visualization system. Also, the two forms of visualization; static and dynamic are looked at, considering the least applied and why. An evaluation of the visualization system was implemented in order to discern if it provides any benefit to organizations.

Findings

The study showed that the RT‐DANGO tool when compared to result from Excel exposed some spikes at some points when visualized dynamically which are not observed using usual static graph as it exposed some unseen events. The mean time taken to finish analysis of 4,000 concurrent‐related data were 168 s using RT‐DANGO and 121 s with the MS‐Excel. The difference was significant to p<0.05 (Z=−2.040). This was considered a reasonable tradeoff for accuracy, clarity and completeness of information.

Originality/value

The paper shows the factors that are responsible for visualization's usage in organizations. The paper will thus serve as an eye opener to critical issues affecting the visualization industry to the benefit of all stakeholders. Some references are made to the challenges faced in Nigeria.
Dialectal system approach supporting environmental innovation for sustainable development
Authors: Kralj Davorin
Published: October 2008

Purpose

Research deals with aspects of systemic thinking that explain environmental innovation in organizations, especially in the construction sector. The paper aims to address the issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The research for this paper is based on the collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data, dialectal systems theory (DST), environmental management systems (EMS), life cycle analysis (LCA) and recycling.

Findings

The research results show that systemic thinking (and environmental innovations) are still a novelty; it can be regarded as an engine for novel changes in social, economic and political arrangements in companies and other organizations as well as for society as a whole. Research is aimed at finding an answer to the question: what dialectal system approach can bring in the long‐run sustainable development?

Research limitations/implications

Research was limited to management of construction.

Practical implications

Environmental innovation efficiency and processes in organizations with a systemic thinking can be innovated more easily.

Originality/value

This paper breaks new ground in using systemic thinking to explain environmental innovation. In research, a model is proposed for recycling isolating materials, made of hard polyurethane and lightweight concrete with aggregates containing expanded glass, based on DST, EMS, LCA and recycling. This is the first attempt, to the best of one's knowledge, to make a new synergy of the dialectal systems theory, environmental management system and innovations supporting sustainable development, decision making and action.
Towards the development of knee prostheses: review of current researches
Authors: Torrealba Rafael R. , Fernández‐López G. , Grieco Juan C.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The aim is to set a state‐of‐the‐art in scientific research towards the development of knee prostheses for transfemoral amputees, by reviewing the literature in the field and by identifying different scientific research lines that have brought out through the years. Also, to provide the information about possible outcomes in the near future, and their links to cybernetics, given the present trends in the field.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature related to scientific research carried out up‐to‐date in the field of knee prostheses, is reviewed in scientific articles, books and electronic sources. Then, different research lines are identified from the obtained information, and finally classified as presented in this work.

Findings

Three scientific research lines regarding the development of knee prostheses were found, each one dealing with: the design of knee prostheses; the performance assessment of these prostheses; and the creation of control strategies for these prostheses which use electronics to control their performance. Also, two new possible eras of prostheses were encountered: the cybernetic era, and the electromyographic one. Considering both options, it is concluded that the cybernetic era of prostheses is likely to become real soon.

Practical implications

A useful state‐of‐the‐art review for researchers likely to be introduced in the field of development of knee prostheses and prosthetic technology in general.

Originality/value

This literature review not only sets a state‐of‐the‐art of the development of knee prostheses, but also proposes a frame of references which allows to classify the different works done in the field, as well as a better understanding of these through a clear presentation.
“Friends in Deed” for librarians in need
Authors: Hiebert Jean , Hollingsworth Yolanda
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a library‐based hardship fund for librarians in personal financial crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses the proposal for library‐based financial support to sustain librarians' memberships to professional organizations and travel expenses for one year.

Findings

Libraries supporting professional development should assist librarians achieve this goal in times of personal financial hardship when a crisis may prevent the librarian from carrying on with his/her normal commitments.

Originality/value

Although similar plans exist at the university level, none exist at the immediate, personal level of the library.
Organizational culture: an important factor to consider
Authors: Linn Mott
Published: October 2008

Purpose

This paper argues that when managing strategically it is important for leaders to consider how to work with the group's culture.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses and gives examples to illustrate how one can determine the nature of a group's culture.

Findings

In advancing the library's issues, it is helpful for library directors to determine whether or not the organization's culture will assist the tactics proposed to implement a new plan.

Practical implications

This provides concepts to be considered when a leader attempts to move forward a library's priorities.

Originality/value

Hopefully, this article will motivate librarians to think about the library's culture when working to advance their library's interests.
Time management part II: the action plan
Authors: Fitsimmons Gary
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to continue the discussion of planning as an essential part of the leadership quality of good time management by presenting a step‐by‐step procedure for working out an action plan based on work goals.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses the importance of having an action plan to guide staff members in accomplishing work goals, sets forth the 5 key elements in an action plan, and then shows how to develop each of those elements.

Findings

The paper finds that an action plan is a helpful tool to ensure continuing progress toward work goals and that there are five key elements to be developed for every action plan in pursuit of a goal.

Originality/value

The value of developing an action plan is that it helps avoid many problems with projects and provides the mechanism for solving many others, so that projects designed to pursue work goals do not stall out indefinitely.
Searching beyond Google
Authors: Maxymuk John
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the alternatives to Google web searching.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses the alternatives to Google web searching, focusing on different approaches, specific topics and particular formats.

Findings

That competition is especially fruitful for those who make our livings searching for information.

Originality/value

The paper presents different approaches to searching by Google.
Issues in library human resources management
Authors: Kieserman Robert H.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a guideline for a good employee relations program in any type of library organization.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper used the personal expertise of the author who has been a professor of human resources management as well as a library consultant to all types of libraries for over 15 years.

Findings

This paper proposes the concept of LISTEN – learning, involvement, structure, training, empathy, and needs – as the basis of a good employee relations program, emphasizing the importance of being attentive to the needs and expectations of employees.

Originality/value

This paper helps the library director and the library department manager more intelligently manage employees.
The impact of policy on immigrant entrepreneurship and businesses practice in Israel
Authors: Heilbrunn Sibylle , Kushnirovich Nonna
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine governmental support to immigrant entrepreneurs and its impact on their businesses. The study seeks to explore the needs of immigrant entrepreneurs as to government support schemes, and the impact of government policy upon mobilization of resources and growth of immigrant businesses.

Design/methodology/approach

Combining convenient and snowball sample, 218 former Soviet Union immigrant entrepreneurs from all over Israel and all business spheres were surveyed via a questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted by quantitative statistical methods.

Findings

Entrepreneurs who encountered more problems at business start‐up are more likely to receive government support. Receiving support facilitates mobilizing resources and compensates for fewer opportunities of initially weak businesses.

Research limitations/implications

Further research might focus upon comparing the impact of policy on immigrant entrepreneurs between countries. Utilization of the findings by policy makers may improve the impact of policy and help to focus the allocation of resources more efficiently.

Originality/value

The paper provides valuable insight for academics and practitioners who are interested to foster immigrant entrepreneurship as mechanism of economic integration.
Interorganizational cooperation: the structural aspect of nurturing trust
Authors: Tubin Dorit , Levin‐Rozalis Miri
Published: October 2008

Purpose

Interorganizational cooperation (IOC) is like harnessing a swan, a crab, and a pike to a single wagon and still expecting it to go. One issue that appears significant under such conditions is building trust and inscribing it into the structure of IOC. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationships between trust and IOC structure.

Design/methodology/approach

Trust‐structure relationships are studied by drawing upon a case study of complex and effective IOC in The Early Childhood Center in Israel.

Findings

The analysis reveals several structural factors that support the building and maintenance of trust: choice of contribution, involvement in decision making, committee configuration, IOC culture, the director's role, and the representatives' high‐ranking positions and professional background.

Research limitations/implications

Three conditions help to inscribe trust into IOC structure: Low risk and minor expectations from the IOC, a leader willing to share information throughout the IOC structure, and high positions and professional representatives.

Originality/value

The study contributes to IOC literature by highlighting the fact that trust between organizations cannot depend on the goodwill of particular people, but must have an organizational structure to enable and support it.
Citizens' attitudes towards e‐government and e‐governance: a UK study
Authors: Kolsaker Ailsa , Lee‐Kelley Liz
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to further understanding of citizens' attitudes towards electronic government (e‐government) and e‐governance.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative study was conducted of 3,000 citizens of a relatively prosperous town in South‐East England. A 10 per cent response rate provided 302 completed questionnaires; 216 users of e‐government portals and 86 non‐users.

Findings

Findings indicate that whilst interest in e‐government is generally low overall, users appreciate personalisation, user‐friendliness and the ability to communicate. Users and non‐users perceive moderate value in e‐government for knowledge acquisition and communication, but little as a vehicle of democratic engagement. Those using e‐government frequently are more positive than other groups.

Research limitations/implications

The relatively low‐response rate (though not unusual for quantitative methods) suggests a general lack of interest; however users of e‐government are appreciative of a few, key benefits. In relation to enhancing participation, the findings suggest that Government ambitions far outstrip those of its citizens. To improve usage, the authors propose that non‐users need to be tempted online in a secure environment, that users should be provided with personalised pages in line with their expectations, that elected members should be encouraged to view with web as a means of reaching out to voters and that citizens should be educated in exploiting the potentially valuable online tools to enhance participation. The study is limited by the exclusive use of quantitative methods; the outcomes suggest that further, qualitative, research could be valuable in exploring user needs, motivations, competence, and level of political engagement.

Originality/value

The paper adds insight into citizens' attitudes towards e‐government and e‐governance.
The impaired state: assessing state capacity and governance in Bangladesh
Authors: Zafarullah Habib , Rahman Redwanur
Published: October 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to assess state capacity in Bangladesh and to analyse the reasons for the apparent failure of public agencies in creating the conditions for and in enhancing sound governance in the country. Conflicts between political parties and the government's lack of clear policy goals have led to a political situation, which is fragile and largely dysfunctional.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the main conceptual literature on governance and state capacity and assesses the status of state institutions in Bangladesh – how they fare, the way they operate and their implications for governance.

Findings

The paper points to the failure of the state machinery in formulating and implementing sound policies. Successive governments have politicised the administrative system and compounded the inefficiency and ineffectiveness of the government. Corruption, nepotism, and clientalism have produced flaws and shortcomings at both political and administrative level. Political instability in government and poor governance has produced a state that is weak and fragmented.

Research limitations/implications

It is mainly focused on one country and is a general overview of key developments, trends and flaws in the functioning of the state.

Practical implications

It is relevant for understanding the general trends and dynamics of state capacity building within a broad framework of governance in a developing country. The findings may be useful for policy makers in reform initiatives.

Originality/value

It provides an assessment of the practical problems of political and administrative management in an unstable political environment.
Uncertainty avoidance: public sector clients and procurement selection
Authors: Love Peter E.D. , Davis Peter R. , Edwards David J. , Baccarini David
Published: October 2008

Purpose

Choosing the appropriate procurement system for construction projects is a complex and challenging task for clients particularly when professional advice has not been sought. To assist with the decision‐making process, a range of procurement selection tools and techniques have been developed by both academic and industry bodies. Public sector clients in Western Australia (WA) remain uncertain about the pairing of procurement method to bespoke construction project and how this decision will ultimately impact upon project success. This paper seeks to examine “how and why” a public sector agency selected particular procurement methods.

Design/methodology/approach

An analysis of two focus group workshops (with 18 senior project and policy managers involved with procurement selection) is reported upon.

Findings

The traditional lump sum (TLS) method is still the preferred procurement path even though alternative forms such as design and construct, public‐private‐partnerships could optimize the project outcome. Paradoxically, workshop participants agreed that alternative procurement forms should be considered, but an embedded culture of uncertainty avoidance invariably meant that TLS methods were selected. Senior managers felt that only a limited number of contractors have the resources and experience to deliver projects using the non‐traditional methods considered.

Practical implications

The research identifies a need to develop a framework that public sector clients can use to select an appropriate procurement method. Learning from previous experiences with regard to procurement selection will further provide public sector clients with knowledge about how to best deliver their projects.

Originality/value

The paper adds insight as to how public sector agencies select particular procurement methods.
Measurements and markets: deconstructing the corruption perception index
Authors: De Maria William
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The paper aims to examine how the measurement of African “corruption” has been manipulated to serve western economic interests.

Design/methodology/approach

In depth secondary source analysis within a post‐colonial framework.

Findings

The most popular measure of corruption, Transparency International's corruption perception index (CPI), is a flawed instrument. Capable only of calculating proxies of corruption, the measure is oblivious to cultural variance and is business‐centric in style. The CPI is embraced in good faith by African governments and donor organisations oblivious to its deeper purpose of serving western economic and geo‐political interests under the guise of weeding out something falsely portrayed as a universal negative.

Practical implications

The paper will assist efforts to ground the anti‐corruption effort in the realities of Africa.

Originality/value

The paper is part of a minority scholarship that seeks to provide space for the consideration of alternatives to the dominant conceptions of corruption and its measurement.
Patient satisfaction in a Riyadh Tertiary Care Centre
Authors: Alaloola Nesreen A. , Albedaiwi Waleed A.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

As one of the healthcare organizations striving to reach optimum quality level, King Abdulaziz Medical City staff believed that knowing the patients' service perspective is one core service quality indicator. This article aims to spotlight the level of patient satisfaction or dissatisfaction in one Riyadh tertiary centre.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross‐sectional survey involving 1983 inpatient, outpatient and emergency care patients at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh using a self‐developed patient satisfaction questionnaire.

Findings

There was a significant satisfaction with room comfort (88.5 percent), room temperature (78.1 percent), room call button system (87.9 percent), room cleanliness (79.6 percent) and respectful staff (87.4 percent). Patients were significantly dissatisfied with phlebotomists not introducing themselves (74 percent), not explaining procedures (57.2 percent) and physicians not introducing themselves (59.1 percent).

Research limitations/implications

Only the overall satisfaction dimensions were studied in a socio‐demographic context. Not every service was studied separately, so the patients' answers may not represent the hospital.

Practical implications

It is recommended that service standards in the areas in which patients were significantly dissatisfied should be raised by involving senior leaders. Areas for which patients were significantly satisfied will need to be sustained or even improved.

Originality/value

So far no similar service quality and patient satisfaction based studies from Saudi health care systems are reported in international peer reviewed journals.
Quality management and quality of care in nursing homes
Authors: Heras Iñaki , Cilleruelo Ernesto , Iradi Jon
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the appropriateness of applying “manufacturing sector” quality management strategies to residential care homes sector and to analyze its influence on the quality of care.

Design/methodology/approach

Observation and in‐depth interviews were conducted with 41 Spanish care home top and middle managers, consultants and employees.

Findings

The quality management paradigm based on ISO 9001 has certain shortcomings in the elderly residential care home sector. There is a need to fit general quality management models to the sector's specific characteristics and to integrate generic quality management with specialized models.

Practical implications

Research findings should be noted by different agents involved in the process of improving services.

Originality/value

Useful, up‐to‐date conceptual overview for different agents interested in the sector (managers, consultants, academics, etc.) as well as interesting evidence for reflection.
Automated versus manual audit in the emergency department
Authors: Doherty Steven , Davis Lin , Leschke Paul , Valpiani Anna , Whitely Emma , Yarnold Della , Stevens Helen
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare data collected by automated form processing with manual data collection for clinical indicators (CIs) in paediatric emergency medicine.

Design/methodology/approach

Paediatric patients presenting with croup, asthma, bronchiolitis, head injury and gastroenteritis in August 2006 were identified by ICD 9 coding and a traditional manual audit was performed by two data collectors. Data were collected on a total of 16 CIs for these five illnesses. Manual audit data were then compared to information collected for this same patient population using TELEform™, an automated forms processing (AFP) system that had been employed for over two years.

Findings

Teleform™ data were only available for 24 patients compared to information for 127 patients identified by ICD 9 coding and manual audit. Teleform™ data overestimated compliance with clinical guidelines by 17 percent giving an overall departmental agreement with CIs of 90.6 percent compared to 73.5 percent in the manual audit. Additionally, manual audit demonstrated that when the clinical guideline was incorporated into the clinical record, compliance was 92.5 percent compared to 51.3 percent when it was not.

Originality/value

This single center study demonstrates that data collected by AFP such as TELEform™, overestimate emergency department performance regarding CIs compliance. Departments that use automated data collection tools need to establish relationships between such data and data collected via more traditional auditing methods.
The role of laboratory information systems in healthcare quality improvement
Authors: Harrison Jeffrey P. , McDowell Geoffrey M.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the status of US hospital Laboratory Information Systems. Laboratory Information Systems are critical to high quality healthcare service provision. Data show that the need for these systems is growing to meet accompanying technological and workload demands. Additionally, laboratory tests provide the majority of information for clinical decision‐making. Laboratory processes automation, including patient result verification, has greatly improved laboratory test throughput while decreasing turn‐around‐times, enabling critical results to reach physicians rapidly for improved clinical outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were drawn from the 2007 Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Analytics Database, which includes over 5,000 US healthcare organizations and provides extensive data on the hardware, software, and information technology infrastructure within healthcare organizations.

Findings

US hospitals are actively involved in laboratory systems planning to improve health service quality. Specifically, data show 76 new laboratory information systems are currently being installed in 2007 with another 399 under contract for future installation. As a result, increasing investment in laboratory information systems is providing state‐of‐the‐art clinical laboratory support, which enhances clinical care processes and improves quality. These state‐of‐the‐art Laboratory Information Systems, when linked with other clinical information systems such as Computerized Physician Order Entry and Electronic Medical Record, will support further healthcare quality improvement.

Originality/value

This article includes the most current information available on the US hospital laboratory information system applications.