bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organizational culture and CSR: an exploratory study of Estonian service organizations
Authors: Jaakson Krista , Vadi Maaja , Tamm Katrin
Published: March 2009

Purpose

This paper sets out to investigate the effect of organizational culture on corporate social responsibility (CSR) in service companies in Estonia. CSR is defined here as a concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and in their interaction with their stakeholders on a voluntary basis.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to develop hypotheses, studies that relate culture at the organizational and societal level and social responsibility were analyzed, leading the authors to the hypotheses that the more extensively an organization engaged in CSR activities, the less likely would task‐orientation exceed relationship‐orientation in this organization, and second, organizational culture in general would be stronger. An empirical study was conducted in 17 service organizations operating in Estonia. It used task‐ and relationship‐orientation as characteristics of organizational culture. These data were obtained from an Organizational Culture Questionnaire completed by the randomly selected employees of respective organizations. Organizational culture data were supplemented by data on CSR, provided by top managers or appropriate persons in all organizations as a response to a questionnaire.

Findings

Results could not statistically confirm the hypothesis that strong organizational culture characterizes higher CSR performers, but results are inconclusive in this respect. On the other hand, there was no evidence that organizations with higher CSR are more relationship‐ than task‐oriented; however, relationship orientation was more strongly correlated with most CSR elements. The specific nature of services in the light of this result is discussed.

Originality/value

The current paper is the first attempt to systematically relate organizational culture with its CSR behavior. Based on literature review, the main contribution to the existing literature is the outlining of possible relationships between the two phenomena.
CSR as a tool to fight against poverty: the case of Mauritius
Authors: Ragodoo Nicolas J.F.
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The primary aim of this paper is to analyse the contribution made by business organisations in the fight against poverty in Mauritius. Whereas on one side businesses are flourishing and ultra‐capitalism is the order of the day, we are witnessing, in parallel, a growing level of poverty worldwide. This situation of paradoxes is not being dealt with effectively by governments, being more interested in attracting foreign direct investment. Civil society organisations, on the other hand, lack the resources to do so. The role played by the business sector is analysed in this work.

Design/methodology/approach

For data collection purpose, a questionnaire‐based semi‐structured interview schedule, worked out through the application of the mixed‐methods approach, was devised and applied to a stratified sample of 33.3 per cent of the top 100 companies and the 19 locally‐incorporated banks, based on the stratified random sampling method. Secondary sources, mainly in the form of company publications were also used.

Findings

Most businesses surveyed already have established procedures with regards to the allocation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds. They are willing to help in creating a better society whether through financial or non‐monetary means, and do have the resources to do so. However, presently, only 11 per cent of CSR funds are devoted to the fight against poverty. There is a need to set the priorities and to coordinate these efforts. What is lacking is the active involvement of business leaders and public figures. This is needed to create the momentum for setting poverty alleviation as a top‐priority of our social agenda.

Originality/value

This work contributes to the scarce literature on CSR in Africa by analysing the way business organisations in the Mauritian economy contribute to the fight against poverty through CSR. It provides an evaluation of what is presently being done, and proposes ways through which the business contribution could be enhanced in order to help more people in need.
Status and direction of corporate social responsibility in Indian perspective: an exploratory study
Authors: Chandra Das Sudhir
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The specific objectives of the study are to examine the contribution of center and state governments in social sector development and to demonstrate the strong sense of corporate social responsibility (CSR) models in an Indian perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is exploratory in character and falls under the category of “general review” aimed at gaining familiarity and achieving insights into the phenomena i.e. status and direction of CSR in India.

Findings

The paper concludes that the social sector remained a neglected area as, despite a rise in their revenue earnings, the states are perennially in financial distress due to a more than proportionate increase in expenditure. The paper also highlights the poor budgetary allocation for education, ineffective doctor‐patient ratio, heavy interest payments/servicing debt and lesser governmental efforts to initiate the CSR as a most effective tool. Further, the paper suggests three prospective CSR models in an Indian perspective.

Research limitations/implications

The present study provides a starting point for further research in the development of strategies to implement CSR models in India.

Originality/value

The paper concludes with a new dimension to CSR that refers to businesspeople focusing on business to community development, socially responsible products and processes and socially responsible employee relations. For researchers interested in the areas of models of CSR, the paper introduces a rich field for future research.
Corporate social responsibility in Poland: the Responsible Business Forum 2002‐2007 report perspective
Authors: Koładkiewicz Izabela
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the approach to the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Poland. It also intends to characterize the process of the implementation of its assumptions subject to Polish economic conditions. At the same time, it aims to pay special attention to the role of small and medium‐sized enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach to the concept of CSR in Poland is outlined on the basis of the result of studies conducted over the years 2002‐2007 as published in the Responsible Business in Poland reports by the Responsible Business Forum.

Findings

In spite of the fact that this paper only shows a single segment of a greater whole, the picture of CSR in Poland that emerges from the reports, demonstrates continuous growth in awareness of this subject matter. In the case of companies, worth stressing is the fact that the balance is slowly shifting from expressing mere interest and declarations of undertaking actions in the future to real implementation of ventures and programs tied with responsible business. However, domestic companies are still plagued by a lack of knowledge and familiarity with instruments facilitating the effective implementation of the standards and principles of responsible business.

Research limitations/implications

A significant limitation of the picture of CSR in Poland, as presented in this paper, is the scope and character of sources used. They are restricted to six Responsible Business in Poland reports.

Practical implications

In spite of the fragmentary character of this analysis, its results demonstrate a need to undertake research into current implementations of the concept of responsible business in the small and medium‐sized enterprise sectors. In practice, this sphere remains untouched under Polish conditions.

Originality/value

The paper presents interesting information on the approach to CSR in Poland.
Building a model of corporate social responsibility in the old industrial region(in the case of Upper Silesia): a sociological perspective
Authors: Szczepański Marek S. , Geisler Robert , Śliz Anna
Published: March 2009

Purpose

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is one of the most crucial phenomena of global capitalism at the beginning of the twenty‐first century. For this reason it is emphasized by many companies (especially transnational corporations and multinational companies) and in the European Union and its policy. The main purpose of this paper is to analyze how CSR exists in a transitional country and region – the Upper Silesian Industrial District and the Rybnik Coalmine Area in Southern Poland.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative and quantitative methodology was used to summarize the sociological research among entrepreneurs and businesses located throughout the region.

Findings

This research showed that the CSR model is a new phenomenon, relatively unknown to entrepreneurs and managers, although there are some examples of CSR practices which currently exist in the strategies of certain companies. These companies are enterprises with significant foreign capital, which proves the theory that CSR is a new kind of idea and consciousness coming into Poland (and Upper Silesia) from abroad. Small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) that belong to the Polish citizens are characterized by an unconscious mode of CSR. There are also examples of building a CSR model in the local perspective among SMEs through European projects. One project called “Inherit the Job” had a goal which was to have local companies recruit the long‐term unemployed for internships and practice and at the end of the program to employ them. To conclude, building a CSR model at the local/regional level depends on one's mentality and way of thinking and it will be a huge challenge in the coming years of transition.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of the research is that companies are not very open to researchers and often would like to present themselves in a public relations manner and not reveal the true condition of the company.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the research are to create new programs focusing on CSR awareness and distribute them among SMEs and other companies.

Originality/value

The original value of the research is in showing how the model of CSR as a social phenomenon is implemented among entrepreneurs and companies in the Upper Silesian Industrial District.
Corruption and economic growth in some selected transitional economies
Authors: Ishola Mobolaji Hakeem , Omoteso Kamil
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The general objective of the paper is to investigate the impact of corruption and other institutional factors on economic growth in some selected transitional economies for the period of 1990‐2004 and make policy recommendations for combating it. Specifically, the study attempts to: assess whether corruption has any impact on the growth of the sample countries; examine whether simultaneous policy reform focussing on accountability and rule of law impact positively on growth of these economies; and investigate whether corruption in these countries exhibit the efficient grease syndrome.

Design/methodology/approach

The indices for corruption and other institutional variables were drawn from International Country Risk Guide (ICRG – PRS) for the period of 1990‐2004, the polity data were obtained from the Polity IV, while the real gross domestic product (GDP) per capita growth were obtained from the Penn World 6.2. The study covered the period between 1990 and 2004 that coincides with the real transition of these economies from centrally planned to market economies. It adopts the panel data framework, the fixed effect, the random effect and the maximum likelihood estimation techniques for the analysis.

Findings

The study's findings support Mauro's hypothesis that corruption has a negative impact on the economies. However, the study cannot find a robust statistical evidence to support the efficient grease hypothesis of Leff and Huntington.

Research limitations/implications

The paper recommends policy efforts that would strengthen accountability and bureaucratic quality, reduce discretionary power, ethnic fractionalisation and military involvement in politics with a view to enhancing social responsibility practices at both micro and macro levels.

Originality/value

Unlike previous studies that focussed on single cross‐country regression with an assumption of identical aggregate production function for all countries, this study adopts the panel data framework that makes it possible to allow for differences in the form of unobservable individual country effects. The paper employs the fixed effect, the random effect and the maximum likelihood estimation techniques.
Contribution on the analysis of the environmental disclosure: a comparative study of American and European multinationals
Authors: Saida Dammak
Published: March 2009

Purpose

This research aims to compare the environmental information that is disclosed in the annual reports of the American and European multinational companies. Eventually, it also aims to try to show the factors which explain the differences.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyzes the annual reports of 72 multinational companies, thanks to the index developed by Wiseman. The paper then uses regression analysis in order to explain the differences.

Findings

The study finds that European multinationals reveal more environmental information than those that are American. Equally, it finds that the nationality of multinational companies seems to have an effect on the level of environmental communication.

Research limitations/implications

The quantitative data are based on a small sample of multinational companies. However, findings will bring efficient contributions to the other studies dealing with the accounting harmonization.

Originality/value

The study aims at enriching the debates on this question, comparing the environmental information (obligatory and voluntary) showed by the annual reports of the American and European multinational companies.
Corporate governance and law‐role of independent directors: theory and practice in India
Authors: Bose Iti
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The paper seeks to bring focus to the significance of the role of directors in corporate performance. The principles of good governance are not unknown to the Indian traditions. Today adoption of good corporate governance practices has emerged as an integral element for doing business. Understanding how boards impact on corporate performance is a question central to the corporate governance research agenda.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores the theoretical and historical link to the structure and functioning of the board of directors with special emphasis of the norms established by the Security Exchange Board of India (SEBI).

Findings

As global business interest in India keeps growing, so does the expectation that Indian companies must play – and be seen to play – by rules that are clear to international investors. Demands have long been heard for greater transparency in the way Indian companies do business. The reforms, ordained by the SEBI, are laid out in amendments to Clause 49 of the companies listing agreement with Indian stock exchanges, a section that pertains to corporate governance. Among the requirements are: more independent directors on boards and audit committees; a code of conduct for board members; a larger role for the audit committee; mandatory risk assessments and certification by the chief executive officer and chief financial officer of the effectiveness of internal accounting controls.

Originality/value

The paper advances the understanding of board structure and performance in Indian corporate governance system by examining the norms established by the SEBI.
The forgotten managing agency system: a nineteenth century model of Indian corporate governance
Authors: Ghosh Ray Kamal
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that there did exist a typical “managing agency system” in pre‐independent corporate India, which itself was a significant and powerful system of corporate governance.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative exploration and analysis of the nineteenth century model of corporate governance and its impact on industrialisation in pre‐independent India.

Findings

Initially, the system of managing agency was instrumental in improving the performances of companies through economies of scale and scope and other best practices. Gradually, over the century it became corrupt and opposed to the interests of majority of the stakeholders. However, the superstructure of the system, even though not backed by any legal framework, has been found to be solid and not inferior to the present day corporate governance system and practices.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the absence of corporate data warehousing, and lack of presence of corporate and business literature in the nineteenth century, the research could not be made empirical. Much of comparisons could not be made between the now and then corporate practices, management style and financial performances.

Practical implications

The findings and analysis of this paper provide a direction to the policy makers, governments and researchers in formulating an alternative model of corporate governance for sustainable development of the society.

Originality/value

The paper is one of the few attempts made so far on the subject and rediscovers “managing agency system” in the light of the corporate governance practices of modern times. It has paved the path for further meaningful and value adding deliberations and researches.
Implementation of best practice code: practical implications from the Warsaw Stock Exchange
Authors: Aluchna Maria
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the best practice initiative in Poland, presenting codes formulated in 2002 and 2005 and focusing on the recent document known asBest Practice of WSE Listed Companies. Moreover, the paper aims to present practical aspects of implementation of new code between January and April 2008.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper identifies the guidelines recommended in three versions of the Warsaw Stock Exchange code of best practice. Additionally it discusses companies' doubts and questions addressed to the Warsaw Stock Exchange, analyzes technical challenges referring to new system of reporting on companies compliance as well as raises some concerns regarding the content of the new code.

Findings

The paper shows that the codes of best practice attempted to address the most problematic issues of transitional Polish corporate governance. The recommendations content was adopted during the last eight years as the response to the changes in market environment and governance challenges. However, the new code addresses mostly the strategic plans of the Warsaw Stock Exchange rather than the corporate needs and its implementation and communication with listed companies leaves a lot of room for improvement.

Practical implications

The analysis addresses the needs for coherence between the crucial moments of development of corporate governance and the code of best practice. Moreover, it points out potential shortcomings in the process of the code implementation.

Originality/value

The paper is based on the documents prepared by the Warsaw Stock Exchange, companies remarks as well as author's experience of working at the Stock Exchange during the first three months of 2008 code implementation.
Moving Milan towards Expo 2015: designing culture into a city brand
Authors: De Carlo Manuela , Canali Silvia , Pritchard Annette , Morgan Nigel
Published: March 2009

Purpose

To create a competitive edge in today's tourism marketplace, cities seek to differentiate themselves and create a positive image. Yet, there is little consensus about city branding processes and few case studies. This paper aims to explore Milan's brand image and personality, focusing on the extent to which its image is dominated by business and fashion or culture and heritage and the implications of this positioning for Milan's re‐branding in preparation for Expo 2015.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper combines quantitative and qualitative primary research. It reports the findings of a questionnaire survey, a web survey, desk research and focus group research. It analyses actual and potential tourists' perceptions, Milan's heritage product, current brand personality and the brand fingerprint.

Findings

Business tourism is central to Milan's prosperity; in contrast, its significant cultural attractions remain marginal to its tourism offer. This results in a narrow range of tourist perceptions of the destination and highly seasonal tourist activity.

Research limitations/implications

This paper represents the discovery phase research for a new city brand and further longitudinal and qualitative work is required.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications for the development of a consistent destination branding strategy analyzing the first steps of the definition of the Milan's brand.

Originality/value

The paper makes practical recommendations to tourism and place marketing practitioners for broadening Milan's brand to build on the city's strong architectural and cultural heritage. It also has value for tourism academics since it makes a methodological contribution to the place branding literature through its use of projective techniques.
Who's your target? The creative class as a target group for place branding
Authors: Zenker Sebastian
Published: March 2009

Purpose

Today we have to face the challenge of competing in a globalized world for scarce goods, such as residents in general, and in particular for those with talents, the so‐called “creative class”. This class is the driving force for economic growth, so winning the competition for these individuals is one of the main tasks for cities and regions today. However, to face this challenge using place marketing and city branding, we have to understand the needs and preferences of this target group. The purpose of this paper is to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

In a field study (n=1,258) the basic needs and preferences of the creative class were analyzed. The creative class with the non‐creative class were compared using a univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Findings

Structural differences were found for the ratings of the importance of different needs for the creative class and the non‐creative class. Consequences for creative class theory are discussed.

Research limitations/implications

It may not be possible to generalize the results found in this German sample to a sample with a different cultural background without further intercultural comparisons. Furthermore, the focus was on four basic factors of city evaluation, not on specific needs for single subgroups. Further research questions are identified and discussed.

Originality/value

The creative class as a target group is very popular in place marketing. This paper discusses the needs and preference structure of this target group and the need for a more precise definition of the creative class.
Santa Fe: a “global enclave” in Mexico city
Authors: Pérez Negrete Margarita
Published: March 2009

Purpose

In response to increased interurban competition in contemporary globalization, cities are employing marketing strategies to differentiate and identify themselves from each other. The creation and development of strategic places is nowadays guided by marketing strategies that brand places in order to promote them at an international scale. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the application of a global branding practice to a place in Mexico City. This has been used as an instrument of urban planning to achieve a new image; as a nodal point to articulate the country and the city to the global economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on the results of anthropological research and consequently it is written from ethnographic accounts. It reflects the point of view of different groups such as government, planners, workers, and residents and describes how globalization discourse has been materialized and what kind of social practices emerge from it.

Findings

Although Santa Fe has been built to create the image of a global place articulated to the world economy, the paper demonstrates how the new urban model intensifies social contrasts and exacerbates social inequalities between elites and marginalized groups. The findings evaluate to what extent place branding, as a pragmatic activity, leaves aside complex social forces that are shaping the urban context.

Originality/value

The paper offers the opportunity to evaluate what constitutes a trend in urban planning in world cities with unequal socioeconomic structures; as well as providing a close overview that questions the consequences generated by the implementation of homogeneous urban planning patterns that seem to be applied to very different cities as a way of positioning places which are in global competition.
Ambassador networks and place branding
Authors: Andersson Marcus , Ekman Per
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The use of brand ambassadors is a quite recent phenomenon, even in the business world. This paper aims to explore the employment of ambassador networks as a place marketing and place development tool. This is done by identifying various kinds of networks, understanding how networks are governed, and pinning down the motivations and expectations of network members.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used interviews and a survey to collect empirical material. The research process employed an approach with many inductive elements, deemed appropriate given that research into the topic is scant.

Findings

The study identified four main dimensions of networks and, on this basis, we outline a typology with four main categories of networks. One major finding is that ambassador networks are seen not only as a communication channel, but also as a development resource. That means they are seen as enhancing the general competitiveness of the place involved. The networks are also seen as a resource for mobilising local citizen pride. Another finding was that ambassadors value getting access to first‐hand information about the place much more than the opportunity of taking part in meetings and events and forming new relationships.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are in line with the perspective of the place brand as a “relational brand network”, extending place branding beyond a matter of just one‐way communication. It is somewhat surprising that ambassadors value getting access to information more than interaction, given that other research puts such a high value on interaction and dialogue as value‐creating factors.

Practical implications

Based on the observations in the study, it is argued that ambassador networks have the potential to constitute an integral component of place brand management.

Originality/value

Research on the application of ambassador networks in place marketing seems to be scant, not to say non‐existent. The present study relates to the implementation of place branding, and can hopefully contribute to a more efficient practice as well as a better theoretical understanding.
Can association methods reveal the effects of internal branding on tourism destination stakeholders?
Authors: Wagner Olivia , Peters Mike
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to employ the collage technique, an unstructured qualitative association instrument, with respect to place branding initiatives and to uncover internal stakeholders' perceptions of the region or destination.

Design/methodology/approach

The first part presents a general framework of brand and destination branding in the field of tourism research. The empirical study was carried out in selected Alpine tourism destinations. In the first stage the authors identified the main representatives of stakeholders in two Austrian tourism destinations. In the second, the collage technique was used to obtain stakeholders' perceptions of the tourism destination brand.

Findings

The findings reveal that different internal stakeholders trace different perceptions of tourism places and illustrate the importance of using the collage as a technique to explore the various identities of a place.

Research limitations/implications

It is argued that internal destination stakeholders do not share the same brand perception of the destination brand and they do not share a common identity, which is communicated through the destination management organisations (DMOs). However, more research is needed to support these findings as the study is limited by its sample size and focus on the Alpine region of Tyrol, Austria.

Practical implications

The results suggest that DMOs should establish better identities within their destination. In particular, they must consider that the collage is a very important technique in communicating the desired brand identity to internal destination stakeholders.

Originality/value

This paper seeks to clarify the effectiveness of the collage method as a tool to measure stakeholders' identities of selected tourism destinations. The paper demonstrates the importance of employing different association methods (word or picture) in recognizing stakeholders' knowledge and opinions of destinations as a primary step in analyzing stakeholders' brand identity perception.
Investor‐based place brand equity: a theoretical framework
Authors: Jacobsen Björn P.
Published: March 2009

Purpose

Many post‐industrial cities are characterised by the effects of globalisation, de‐regulation, regionalisation and technological developments. The application of supply‐side strategies to meet the challenges arising from these effects has contributed to the homogeneity of places which economic development professionals try to escape by creating place brands. Considerable resources are allocated to such place marketing efforts – so far without being able to measure the impact. The aim of this paper is to present a framework to analyse place brand equity from the foreign direct investor's point of view in an attempt to identify the place brand actuators which contribute to (more) efficient place brands.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on literature research, customer‐based FMCG brand equity models are analysed and adapted to the characteristics of places.

Findings

It is expected that the behaviour of the place brand customer (i.e. the decision to invest in a certain place) depends on the assessment of the place brand values which in turn are derived from the perception of place brand assets. These findings have been included in the investor‐based place brand equity (IPE) framework. Applying the IPE framework to place brands enables the development of more efficient place brands, making better use of public funds and thus increasing the acceptance of place branding efforts.

Research limitations/implications

The IPE framework is based on the application of (modified) FMCG approaches to places. The resulting framework will need empirical verification.

Originality/value

The branding of places as an attempt to attract investors has become a popular approach for place marketing professionals. Assessment of place brand equity reveals whether such approaches are efficient. Based on assessment of efficiency, suggestions for the improvement of place brands can be identified.
Exposure to low concentrations of dissolved ammonia promotes growth rate in walleye Sander vitreus
Authors: Madison B. N. , Dhillon R. S. , Tufts B. L. , Wang Y. S.
Published: March 2009

The objective of the current study was to examine whether sublethal (moderate) levels of dissolved ammonia may be beneficial to growth in juvenile walleye Sander vitreus (recent evidence in juvenile rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss has shown significant increases in protein synthesis in the presence of moderately elevated concentrations of dissolved ammonia). Moderately elevated dissolved ammonia concentrations between 100 and 300 μmol l−1 suppressed routine aerobic metabolic activity by 20% during acute trials (2 h), while promoting specific growth rate (>50%) and elevating whole body soluble protein content by 20% in the early stages (14–42 days) in chronic ammonia exposure experiments. Juvenile S. vitreus held at ammonia concentrations between 107·6 ± 5·5 and 225·5 ± 4·7 μmol l−1 (mean ±s.e.) grew significantly faster than control fish and significantly reduced plasma cortisol levels (<3 μg dl−1). Results from this study suggest that chronic exposure to moderate amounts of dissolved ammonia significantly increase growth rates in juvenile S. vitreus by increasing nitrogen accessible for supplementary protein deposition leading to somatic development.
Transgenerational marking of marine fish larvae: stable‐isotope retention, physiological effects and health issues
Authors: Williamson D. H. , Jones G. P. , Thorrold S. R. , Frisch A. J.
Published: March 2009

This study examined the toxicological and physiological responses of a commercially important coral‐reef grouper,Plectropomus leopardus(Serranidae), to injection of enriched stable‐isotope barium chloride (BaCl2) solution. Thirty adultP. leoparduswere subject to one of two138BaCl2injection treatment groups (corresponding to dosage rates of 2 and 4 mg138Ba kg−1body mass), and a control group in which fish were injected with 0·9% sodium chloride (NaCl) solution. Fish from each group were sampled at post‐injection intervals of 48 h and 1, 3, 5 and 8 weeks, at which time blood and tissue samples were removed from each fish. Residual concentrations of Ba and138Ba:137Ba ratios were measured in muscle, gonad, liver and bone tissues of each experimental fish. Elevated Ba concentrations were detected in all treatment fish tissue samples within 48 h post injection. Residual Ba concentrations decreased throughout the remainder of the 8 week experimental period in all tissues except bone. The BaCl2injection had no significant effects on measured whole blood variables or on the plasma concentrations of steroid hormones. Enriched Ba stable isotopes can therefore be used at low dosages to mark larvae of commercially important marine fishes, without adverse effects on the health of the fishes or on humans who may consume them.
TNF‐α modulates the Na+/ K+ ATPase and the Na+K+2Cl− symporter in LLC‐PK1 cells
Authors: Ramia N. F. , Kreydiyyeh S. I.
Published: March 2009

Background  Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) has been implicated in the development of diabetic nephropathy and the accompanying increase in sodium retention. Inhibition of renal Na+/K+ ATPase was reported to accompany cell death. As TNF is known to induce both apoptosis and cell survival, this work investigated the effect and mechanism of action of TNF‐α on the Na+/K+ ATPase and the Na+K+2Cl− symporter using LLC‐PK1 cells, a porcine renal proximal tubules cell line.

Materials and methods  Cells were incubated for 2 h with TNF‐α in presence and absence of pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate, SP600125 and FK009, respective inhibitors of the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB), c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) and caspases. The activity of the pump was assayed by measuring the ouabain‐inhibitable release of inorganic phosphate. Changes in its expression and the expression of the symporter were monitored by western blot analysis.

Results  TNF‐α up‐regulated both transporters. NF‐κB, JNK and the caspases were all mediators of the cytokine action. TNF up‐regulated the Na+/K+ pump by stimulating JNK which in turn, activated NF‐κB and inhibited the caspases. TNF effect on the cotransporter was also mediated via activation of JNK which however inhibited NF‐κB and by so doing prevented activation of caspases. As caspases were demonstrated to down‐regulate the two transporters, their inhibition by TNF is responsible for the observed up‐regulatory effect.

Conclusions  It was concluded that the Na+/K+ ATPase and Na+K+2Cl− are both targets of TNF‐α and the effect of the cytokine favours cell survival over cell death.
Pain assessment tools for unconscious or sedated intensive care patients: a systematic review
Authors: Pudas‐Tähkä Sanna‐Mari , Axelin Anna , Aantaa Riku , Lund Vesa , Salanterä Sanna
Published: March 2009

Title. Pain assessment tools for unconscious or sedated intensive care patients: a systematic review.

Aim. This paper is a report of a systematic review describing instruments developed for pain assessment in unconscious or sedated intensive care patients.

Background. Intensive care patients who are unconscious or sedated are unable to communicate and therefore recognition and assessment of the pain is difficult. To assess these patients’ pain, it is important to use a valid and reliable pain assessment tool.

Data sources. A systematic bibliographical review was conducted, based on seven databases, covering the period from January 1987 to February 2007. A total of 1,586 abstracts was identified and reviewed, 58 papers were selected for full‐text review and nine papers were included in the review.

Methods. Two researchers independently reviewed the abstracts and three reviewers extracted the papers. The included papers were evaluated using a quality assessment instrument previously developed to evaluate pain assessment tools.

Results. Five different pain assessment tools were identified that had been used with unconscious or sedated intensive care patients. All five instruments included behavioural indicators and three included physiological indicators. Their psychometric properties varied and it was not possible to deduce their clinical utility.

Conclusion. All instruments were reasonably new. In most of them psychometric testing was in an early stage or even absent. Before any of the reported instruments can be chosen in preference to others, it is essential to test their validity, reliability and feasibility further.
Fall risk factors in older people with dementia or cognitive impairment: a systematic review
Authors: Härlein Jürgen , Dassen Theo , Halfens Ruud J. G. , Heinze Cornelia
Published: March 2009

Title.  Fall risk factors in older people with dementia or cognitive impairment: a systematic review.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a review conducted to identify and summarize specific risk factors for falls in older people with dementia or cognitive impairments as documented by prospective or case–control studies.

Background.  People with dementia have a doubled to threefold risk for falls, but the reasons for this have not yet been fully explained. Several integrative literature reviews discuss possible specific fall risk factors. However, there is lack of a systematic evaluation of studies.

Data sources.  The CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE and PsychInfo databases were searched for the period between 1980 and May 2007.

Review methods.  A systematic review was conducted. Cohort or case–control studies published in English or German were included if they investigated risk factors for falls or fall‐related injuries in a sample consisting of participants with dementia or cognitive impairment. Two reviewers independently assessed study quality.

Results.  Six prospective studies were included in the review. These differed concerning samples, settings, follow‐up periods and examined variables. Therefore, meta‐analysis was not possible. Eight categories of risk factors emerged: disease‐specific motor impairments, impaired vision, type and severity of dementia, behavioural disturbances, functional impairments, fall history, neuroleptics and low bone mineral density.

Conclusion.  There is lack of sound studies examining fall risk factors in cognitively impaired elders. Well‐known risk factors such as motor impairment show particular characteristics in people with dementia. In addition, behavioural disturbances contribute to their high risk for falls. Further prospective studies are needed.
Operating theatre nurses’ perceptions of competence: a focus group study
Authors: Gillespie Brigid M. , Chaboyer Wendy , Wallis Marianne , Chang Hsiao‐yun Annie , Werder Helen
Published: March 2009

Title.  Operating theatre nurses’ perceptions of competence: a focus group study.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study exploring nurses’ perceptions of the components of competence in the operating theatre.

Background.  Competency Standards for operating theatre practice are used in some countries to guide clinical and professional behaviours. The need for competence assessment has been enshrined, but the conceptualization and agreement about what signifies competence in Operating Theatre has been lacking.

Methods.  Three focus groups were conducted with 27 operating theatre nurses in three major metropolitan hospitals in Queensland, Australia. Interviews were audio taped and field notes were taken. Data were collected during 2008. Thematic analysis was performed.

Findings.  From the analysis of the textual data, three themes were identified: ‘coalescence of theoretical, practical, situational and aesthetic knowledge within a technocratic environment’; ‘the importance of highly developed communication skills among teams of divergent personalities and situations’; and ‘managing and coordinating the flow of the list’.

Conclusion.  These findings have identified that competence in respect to components of knowledge, teamwork and communication, and the ability to coordinate and manage are important and should be incorporated in operating theatre Competency Standards. Additionally, findings may assist in the development of an instrument to measure operating nurses’ perceived competence.
Decision‐making for acutely ill nursing home residents: nurses in the middle
Authors: Lopez Ruth Palan
Published: March 2009

Title.  Decision‐making for acutely ill nursing home residents: nurses in the middle.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to generate a model of nursing behaviours and social processes inherent in decision‐making for acutely ill nursing home residents.

Background.  Most research concerning clinical decision‐making in nursing homes focuses on the perspectives of doctors. Much less is known about the perspectives and actions of nurses with regard to decision‐making, despite the centrality of their roles in nursing homes.

Method.  Grounded theory was used. Data were collected in 2004 in four nursing homes in the United States of America using in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews, 74 hours of non‐participant observation and informal conversational interviews with key nursing staff involved in decision‐making.

Findings.  Nurses strive to create a plan of care acceptable to family members and doctors, consistent with wishes of residents and most comfortable for residents. A unifying theme of satisfying all sides emerged as representative of the negotiation strategies used by nurses to address these competing points of view. Four phases in this negotiation occurred: weighing the significance; notifying the family; feeling it out; and playing the middleman. The outcome was either a decision for life‐prolongation or for palliative care.

Conclusion.  Decisions for nursing home residents are complex and involve weighing and balancing the interests and preferences of many concerned participants, including residents, families and doctors. This process requires skill in clinical judgment, communication and collaboration.
Social isolation in older adults: an evolutionary concept analysis
Authors: Nicholson Jr. Nicholas R.
Published: March 2009

Title.  Social isolation in older adults: an evolutionary concept analysis.

Aim.  This paper is a report of an analysis of the concept of social isolation as experienced by older adults.

Background.  Social isolation is a serious problem with older adults that is expected to increase in the future. Although strong correlations exist between social isolation and negative health consequences, few interventions exist. One contributing factor to this is a lack of conceptual clarity.

Data sources.  The CINAHL, PsycINFO and Medline databases and the Web of Science were searched using the key terms social isolation, social networks, older adults, elderly and social integration for publications between 1983 and 2007.

Review methods.  An evolutionary concept analysis was undertaken. References were read in their entirety and analysed based on the summary of surrogate terms, related concepts, attributes, antecedents and consequences.

Findings.  Five attributes were identified: number of contacts, feeling of belonging, fulfilling relationships, engagement with others and quality of network members. Antecedents included: lack of relationships, psychological barriers, physical barriers, low financial and resource exchange, and prohibitive environment. Roy’s Adaptation Model is proposed as a theoretical context into which social isolation fits.

Conclusion.  Numerous definitions are used to describe social isolation, but they lack uniformity, consistency and clarity; this impairs the further development and refinement of the concept. This concept analysis can offer additional understanding and a starting point for future research related to social isolation.
Psychometric properties of MacNew Heart Disease Health‐related Quality of Life Questionnaire: Brazilian version
Authors: Nakajima Karin Mitie , Rodrigues Roberta Cunha Matheus , Gallani Maria Cecília Bueno Jayme , Alexandre Neusa Maria Costa , Oldridge Neil
Published: March 2009

Title.  Psychometric properties of MacNew Heart Disease Health‐related Quality of Life Questionnaire: Brazilian version.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to test the psychometric properties of the Brazilian Version of the MacNew Heart Disease Health‐related Quality of Life Questionnaire.

Background.  Evidence of acceptable psychometric properties of the original MacNew questionnaire has been reported. However, the psychometric performance of the Brazilian version has not been extensively studied.

Method.  Between November 2004 and June 2005, 159 patients with myocardial infarction completed the Brazilian version of the instrument. Reliability was determined with Cronbach’s alpha coefficient; convergent validity with Pearson’s correlation between the Brazilian MacNew questionnaire and the SF‐36; and the ‘known‐group’ approach was used to test discriminant validity. Ceiling and floor effects and practicality were analyzed.

Findings.  It took an average of 8·9 minutes to complete the instrument. A ceiling effect was detected in the subscales and global scores, with no floor effect. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient ranged from 0·87 to 0·92. Scores on similar domains of the SF‐36 and the MacNew questionnaire were correlated (r = 0·66; 0·78 and 0·53 for the physical, emotional, and social domains). Correlation between the dissimilar SF‐36 mental health and MacNew physical domains was lower at 0·45; correlation between the dissimilar SF‐36 physical functioning and MacNew emotional domain was 0·64. Individuals without regional ventricular dysfunction or symptoms had statistically significantly higher scores than those with regional ventricular dysfunction or symptoms.

Conclusion. The Brazilian version of the MacNew questionnaire has acceptable levels of validity, reliability and practicality. Further studies are advisable to confirm its divergent validity and to test its responsiveness.