bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic heterogeneity implements a game theoretic mixed strategy in a clonal microbial population
Authors: Healey David , Gore Jeff
Published: November 2014

Genetically identical cells in microbial populations often exhibit a remarkable degree of phenotypic heterogeneity even in homogenous environments. While such heterogeneity is often thought to be a bet-hedging strategy against unpredictable environments, evolutionary game theory also predicts phenotypic heterogeneity as a stable response to evolutionary "hawk-dove" games, in which rare strategies are favored over common ones. Here we provide experimental evidence for this game theoretic explanation in the context of the well-studied yeast GAL network. In an environment containing the two sugars glucose and galactose, the yeast GAL network displays stochastic bimodal activation. We show that genetic mutants playing the "pure" strategies of GAL-ON or GAL-OFF can each invade the opposite strategy when rare, indicating a hawk-dove game between the two. Consistent with the Nash equilibrium of an evolutionary game, the stable mix of pure strategists does not necessarily maximize the growth of the overall population. We also find that the wild type GAL network can invade populations of both pure strategists while remaining uninvasible by either. Taken together, our results provide experimental evidence that evolutionary hawk-dove games between identical cells can explain the phenotypic heterogeneity found in clonal microbial populations.
Crystal structure of (2-{3-[4-(4′-cyanobiphenyl-4-yloxy)butoxy]pyridin-2-yl-κN}-5-(dodecyloxy)phenyl-κC1)(9-oxotetracos-7-en-7-olato-κ2O,O′)platinum(II)
Authors: Luo Kaijun , Liu Hanlin , Guo Qing , Luo Daibing
Published: November 2014

The central PtIIatom in the title compound, [Pt(C40H47N2O3)(C24H45O2)], has a slightly distorted square-planar coordination environment. The dihedral angle between the plane formed by Pt and the chelating C and N atoms and that formed by Pt and the chelating O atoms is 2.1 (3)°. The angle between the planes of the two rings in the biphenyl-4-carbonitrile unit is 35.1 (5)°. One lateral alkane chain is disordered over two sets of sites with site occupancy factors in a 0.595 (7):0.405 (7) ratio.
Crystal structure of (±)-3-[(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)methyl]-2-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-4-one
Authors: Moreno-Fuquen Rodolfo , Castillo Juan C. , Abonia Rodrigo , Ellena Javier , De Simone Carlos A.
Published: November 2014

In the title thiazolidine-4-one derivative, C20H21NO6S, the central thiazolidine ring is essentially planar (r.m.s. deviation for all non-H atoms = 0.0287 Å) and forms a dihedral angle of 88.25 (5)° with the methoxy-substituted benzene ring and 74.21 (4)° with the 1,3-benzodioxole ring. The heterocyclic ring (with two O atoms) fused to benzene ring adopts an envelope conformation with the non-ring-junction C atom as the flap. In the crystal, the molecules are linked into chains along [001] through weak C—H...O interactions, formingR44(28) edge-fused rings.
Crystal structure of hydrocortisone 17-butyrate
Authors: Zhu Yu , Shen Wei , Wang Hai-li
Published: November 2014

In the title compound, C25H36O6, the two central cyclohexane rings exhibit a chair conformation. The terminal cyclohexene and cyclopentane rings are in half-chair and envelope conformations (with the C atom bearing the methyl substituent as the flap), respectively. The methyl group of the butyrate chain is disordered over two orientations, with a refined occupancy ratio of 0.742 (6):0.258 (6). Intramolecular O—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds are observed. In the crystal, molecules are linked by O—H...O hydrogen bonds into chains running parallel to theaaxis.
EXAFS and XANES analysis of oxides at the nanoscale
Authors: Kuzmin Alexei , Chaboy Jesús
Published: November 2014

Worldwide research activity at the nanoscale is triggering the appearance of new, and frequently surprising, materials properties in which the increasing importance of surface and interface effects plays a fundamental role. This opens further possibilities in the development of new multifunctional materials with tuned physical properties that do not arise together at the bulk scale. Unfortunately, the standard methods currently available for solving the atomic structure of bulk crystals fail for nanomaterials due to nanoscale effects (very small crystallite sizes, large surface-to-volume ratio, near-surface relaxation, local lattice distortionsetc.). As a consequence, a critical reexamination of the available local-structure characterization methods is needed. This work discusses the real possibilities and limits of X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) analysis at the nanoscale. To this end, the present state of the art for the interpretation of extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) is described, including an advanced approach based on the use of classical molecular dynamics and its application to nickel oxide nanoparticles. The limits and possibilities of X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES) to determine several effects associated with the nanocrystalline nature of materials are discussed in connection with the development of ZnO-based dilute magnetic semiconductors (DMSs) and iron oxide nanoparticles.
Developing tomorrow's talent: the case of an undergraduate mentoring programme
Authors: Gannon Judie M. , Maher Angela
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the value of an alumni and employer engagement mentoring initiative in a hospitality and tourism school within a UK university.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses the survey method and interviews to provide qualitative and quantitative data on the participants’ reactions to the initiative.

Findings

The main components of successful mentoring programmes; matching, preparation, interaction and evaluation are explored to help identify the long‐ and short‐term challenges and benefits of mentoring students as they transition into the graduate labour market. The findings highlight the benefits to mentors and mentees and the challenges for ensuring participant engagement and ongoing development. The article concludes with an agenda for further mentoring developments in the midst of the dynamic challenges facing UK higher education institutions and the hospitality and tourism industry.

Practical implications

The article highlights the importance of a systematic approach to developing a mentoring programme and engaging industry in a distinctive way with the transitioning of undergraduates into the workplace.

Originality/value

This article offers unique evidence of an employer engagement initiative aimed at supporting sector specific management graduates as they transition from university into industry.
Generic skills development and satisfaction with groupwork among business students
Authors: Teo Stephen T.T. , Segal Naomi , Morgan Adam C. , Kandlbinder Peter , Wang Karen Y. , Hingorani Anurag
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine variables explaining students’ positive and negative experiences of groupwork and connect country of residence with the perception of generic skills development and self‐reported satisfaction with groupwork. It also aims to examine the effect of prior training in groups from the perspective of Australian and Non‐Australian permanent residency Business students.

Design/methodology/approach

Respondents were 389 undergraduate and postgraduate Business students at an Australian metropolitan university. A path model was developed and analysed using partial least squares modeling.

Findings

Students’ country of residence had a significant influence on reporting of generic skill development and experience of groupwork. Self‐reported improvement in generic skills after groupwork assessment was associated with reporting of fewer negative and more positive aspects of working in groups.

Research limitations/implications

The findings were limited by using data collected from students enrolled in one undergraduate and one postgraduate subject at the conclusion of a group assignment from one university. Future research should test the model by extending it to other universities and non‐Business units. Future research should rely on a longitudinal design, where the survey is carried out at the beginning and the end of the group assessment.

Practical implications

It is important to ensure both domestic and international students acquire generic skills through groupwork and that prior training in groupwork takes place before group assessments.

Originality/value

The study provides empirical evidence supporting the incorporation of generic skill teaching into academic practice prior to assigning groupwork to students.
Outreach initiatives in academic libraries, 2009‐2011
Authors: Dennis Melissa
Published: November 2014

Purpose

With outreach responsibilities on the rise in academic libraries and budgets declining or remaining stagnant, finding outreach initiatives that support the university in creative ways are on the rise. This study seeks to compare outreach initiatives by academic librarians to a project conducted by the author.

Design/methodology/approach

Academic librarians with responsibilities in outreach, marketing, and promotion were targeted in a survey sent to listervs in the Summer of 2011. A total of 21 academic librarians described successful outreach initiatives. A small response rate reflects the target audience.

Findings

The survey revealed a wide range of outreach initiatives that compare funding: library, university, grant, and other. The author's project greatly exceeded the cost of all other initiatives.

Research limitations/implications

The research identifies survey flaws and a small reach to the targeted audience. Suggestions for future research include a modified survey to the Association of Library Communications and Outreach Professionals.

Practical implications

Technology advancements and budget restraints have put pressure on outreach librarians to provide successful programs with less funding. Many colleges and universities across the nation have inserted outreach into public services positions.

Originality/value

The literature produces limited research about successful outreach initiatives over the past five years where economic duress has been nationwide. Outreach librarians will find inspiration in the collected outreach projects undertaken at 21 colleges and universities across America to create projects with limited funding.
Nerd thrill your users
Authors: Niccole Westbrook R. , Prilop Valerie , German Elizabeth M.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study in which reference librarians were a catalyst for an innovative web project designed to market digital collections to students and faculty. The web project was titled “Image Café” and offered users a taste of the materials available in the University of Houston Digital Library in an interface and format that was simple to navigate and that encouraged reuse of the materials, specifically in presentations.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach to this project was a collaborative strategy in which a team of digital librarians reached out to reference librarians to engage them in more effective promotion of digital collections to students and faculty. Prior to this project, reference librarians were an under‐utilized stakeholder group whose feedback about the organization and presentation of digital collections had been difficult to implement. The Image Café project was an opportunity to pilot ideas directly from the librarians focused on outreach to students and faculty in an effort to make digital collections more approachable and discoverable for that audience.

Findings

Based on initial findings, use of Image Café has been strong and consistently growing.

Originality/value

This paper provides a valuable model for building bridges between groups within libraries that do not traditionally collaborate in order to make digital collections intuitive and relevant for users.
Toward a general model for executive compensation
Authors: Farid Mamdough , Conte Vincent , Lazarus Harold
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This paper aims to review the growing literature on the issues and variables which are impacting the determination of CEO pay for Fortune 500 and other large organizations. While many previous researchers have focused on agency theory, CEO power, market forces and board of directors governance as the most relevant issues, the authors seek to propose a general model for determining CEO pay which has a more comprehensive set of variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on existing literature to derive the variables for the proposed model.

Findings

The bulk of the literature reviewed takes an Anglo‐American point‐of‐view on the best way to manage CEO pay. There is a need for a more “balanced” and broader perspective on how to motivate CEO behavior with the needs of other stakeholders.

Originality/value

The paper provides new insights into the dynamic nature of CEO motivation and governance and by designing a general model, integrates divergent points of view into a more holistic body of knowledge.
Prediction of China's energy consumption structure
Authors: Yuan Chaoqing , Song Dejin , Guo Benhai , Xie Naiming
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to attempt to analyze the situation and trend of China's energy consumption structure and predict it.

Design/methodology/approach

Starting from the situation of China's energy consumption structure, a quadratic programming model is created to analyze the trend of it. A homogeneous Markov chain is chosen to predict China's energy consumption structure with the data collected from China's Statistical Yearbook. Finally, the implication of the prediction is explained.

Findings

The results are convincing: the substitution of different energies are found, China will not enter the oil era, natural gas and non‐fossil energy will rapidly develop.

Practical implications

The results of this article can provide an important basis for the government to make a non‐fossil energy development plan and energy policies.

Originality/value

The paper succeeds in revealing and predicting China's energy consumption structure by quadratic programming and homogeneous Markov chain.
Computational intelligence techniques for communities network formation
Authors: Maries Iulia , Scarlat Emil
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the role of computational intelligence techniques in the process of communities' formation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a high performance genetic algorithm for community formation based on collective intelligence capacity. An experimental study is presented to illustrate the algorithm.

Findings

Collective intelligence does not represent the sum of individual intelligences, it is the ability of the community to complete more tasks than single individuals. The paper reveals the need for mechanisms that allow a large group of professionals to make decisions better than single individuals.

Practical implications

The genetic algorithm proposed in the paper may be used to obtain the optimal structure of a community, in terms of number of members and their role in the community.

Originality/value

The key concept is a new fitness index, an intelligence index, which is the optimal combination between intelligence and cooperation, and allows not only community formation, but also intelligence to be the driving principle in the community formation process.
Image edge detection based on the grey prediction model and discrete wavelet transform
Authors: Wang Qiuping , Wang Tiepeng , Zhang Ke
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Image edge detection is an essential issue in image processing and computer vision. The purpose of this paper is to provide a novel and effective algorithm for image edge detection.

Design/methodology/approach

Because GM (1,1) model is a typical model for tendency analysis, GM (1,1) model can be used for detecting edge. Prediction image data are close to the original image data by reason of the data being smooth in the non‐edge zone of image. The principle of edge detection by GM (1,1) model is that the predicted value at an edge point will be an overestimate or underestimate owing to the data changing drastically in the edge zone of the image. First, the edge image information is obtained by a preprocessed image subtracting from prediction image via GM (1,1). Second, median filter is used to eliminate isolated point noise in edge information images, and discrete wavelet transform is used to extract the image edge. Finally, this paper verifies the proposed algorithm by experiment.

Findings

Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has advantages such as precisely locating, abundant weak edge, and better anti‐noise performance.

Practical implications

The algorithm proposed in the paper can precisely detect the information of edge image, and get a clear image detail.

Originality/value

Grey system theory developed vigorously lays the foundation for image processing. Wavelet analysis in image processing has its characteristics. This paper combines grey prediction model with discrete wavelet transform (DWT) successfully and obtains a novel and effective algorithm for image edge detection.
A dynamic evaluation model of university leading cadre based on multivariate delay connection number
Authors: Tao Yong , Shen Feifei , Hu Mingli
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Since the present university leading cadre capability evaluations are mainly static, there is a lack of evaluation methods to address dynamic and multi‐scale‐based situations. Some important factors to address people's performances, such as the developing trends and potentialities are considered. The purpose of this paper is to attempt to propose a dynamic evaluation model based on multivariate delay connection number.

Design/methodology/approach

First, evaluation results of previous periods are taken into the current period and values of uncertain numbers are revised. Next, a dynamic evaluation model is built for university leading cadre. Last, a numerical example is used to prove its feasibility and effectiveness.

Findings

This paper promotes a corrected equal portion value method of uncertain numbers i1(τ), … ,in(τ) from the adjacent two periods to multi periods, and builds a dynamic evaluation model, which proved simple‐structured and easy to apply.

Practical implications

The new model is applied in the evaluation of university leading cadre, and could give a more comprehensive, dynamic, scientific analysis for evaluation by model application.

Originality/value

The paper develops a novel evaluation model based on a multivariate delay connection number, which expands traditional methods from a static situation to a dynamic and multi‐scale‐based situation.
Mobile student information system
Authors: Asif Muhammad , Krogstie John
Published: November 2014

Purpose

A mobile student information system (MSIS) based on mobile computing and context‐aware application concepts can provide more user‐centric information services to students. The purpose of this paper is to describe a system for providing relevent information to students on a mobile platform.

Design/methodology/approach

The research followed a design science approach, including surveys to argue for the relevance of the system and evaluation of different versions of the system using a mobile system acceptance model (MSAM).

Findings

It was found that the intention to use such services is high, in particular relative to services providing information based on localization and the personal schedule and interests of the student.

Originality/value

Several mobile systems exist that provide generic campus information for students and this paper describes one of the few systems of this sort of personalization which have been evaluated.
The functional and usable appeal of Facebook SNS games
Authors: Chen Kuo‐Hsiang , Shen Kai‐Shuan , Ma Min‐Yuan
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the appeal of social networking services (SNS) games from the perspectives of game usability and the functionality that is facilitated by the internet. Why players prefer SNS games to other types of games and what specific characteristics causes them to be addicted to continuous game play are the two critical issues to be probed.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors interviewed 11 experts and surveyed 321 gamers using a questionnaire to gather the data about their preferences. The authors believe that a preference‐based study can reveal the underlying reasons for the appeal of SNS games. The collected data were analysed using Quantification Theory Type I.

Findings

The semantic structure of appeal, determined from the interviews of experts, shows the hierarchy of the relationship between the types of appeal or appeal factors, the reasons for gamers’ preferences, and the specific characteristics of SNS games. According to the statistical analysis, the three most important appeal factors of SNS games are “easy and convenient”, “friendly and lively” and “social interaction”, and these are affected in varying degrees by particular reasons and characteristics.

Practical implications

Based on the findings, the paper hypothesises that the popularity of Facebook SNS games can be ascribed to the design of game, which targets the psychological preferences of players.

Originality/value

SNS games have become very popular due to some of their appealing characteristics. The findings provide important information for designers and researchers of Facebook SNS games. The study also contributes to the field of human‐computer interaction in cyberspace.
Service fairness and customer satisfaction in internet banking
Authors: Zhu Yu‐Qian , Chen Houn‐Gee
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and empirically test fairness in predicting online customer satisfaction in the internet banking context. The paper also aims to further explore the mechanism through which fairness influences customer satisfaction online, i.e. identifying the mediators.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey is used to validate a research model based on equity theory and relationship marketing theory that incorporates fairness, trust, perceived value and customer satisfaction. A total of 331 surveys were analyzed using Partial Least Square.

Findings

In internet banking, fairness that includes distributive fairness, procedural fairness and informational fairness is positively related to customer satisfaction. Trust is identified as the key mediator of fairness to customer satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

In an online context, where human interactions are replaced by graphic user interfaces, fairness still plays an important role in customer satisfaction. Further comparison of online and offline context could be conducted.

Practical implications

For online service managers, it is crucial to incorporate the fairness perspective into operations, which involves topics like segmented marketing efforts, consistency in procedures, and providing ample information to customers.

Originality/value

This research is one of the first attempts to examine fairness in internet banking, as well as to delineate the mediating process of fairness to satisfaction online.
Why did mainstream economics miss the crisis? The role of epistemological and methodological blinkers
Authors: Cameron John , Astrid Siegmann Karin
Published: November 2014

Purpose

In this paper the aim is to show how the translation of a logical positivist epistemology into neoclassical economics has had profound methodological consequences which over‐determine an inability to predict cusps and their associated crises.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a review of epistemological and methodological literature, it is argued that the financial crises of the past 20 years ought to initiate a questioning of the epistemological foundations of the discipline.

Findings

As an alternative, it is suggested that an economics methodology informed by critical realism would increase the probability of a timely prediction of crises.

Originality/value

The paper de‐emphasises falsification as a key criterion for assessing the quality of knowledge, provides more space for non‐quantified reflections on relationships, a thicker model of human agency, a well‐specified model of collective human economic behaviour as well as an endogenous possibility of dramatic change within the economic domain.
Economics as a polymorphic discursive construct: heterodoxy and pluralism
Authors: Pilkington Marc
Published: November 2014

Purpose

What do economists talk about? This seemingly innocent interrogation conceals a broader and innovative research programme, with the potential to renew the reflection on heterodox economics in a post‐crisis scenario. The aim of this paper is to show that convergence between language for specific purposes and economics is possible, so as to single out the genesis and the emergence of critical economic discourse.

Design/methodology/approach

After underlining the necessary collaboration between language and subject‐matter specialists, the paper addresses the question of the problematic use of economics textbooks in English‐speaking countries. Then, it deals with the fascinating question of the multiplicity of specialized meanings in economics. After pointing out the shortcomings of orthodoxy characterized by hyper‐formalization and its inevitable corollary, the mathematical nature of the discipline, it investigates the genesis of critical economic discourse, which requires the acknowledgement of pluralism and the components of heterodoxy, in order to converge towards a process of disciplinary acculturation that goes hand in hand with the learning process of language for specific purposes.

Findings

A deep‐seated renewal of economics, consisting of a methodological shift towards the components of heterodoxy, has the potential to enhance the effectiveness of teaching English for economics, so that the latter effectively conveys specialized meaning.

Research limitations/implications

Teaching and researching English for specific purposes necessitates enhanced collaboration between subject‐matter specialists and applied linguists. However, this type of collaboration can be hampered by institutional or socio‐professional obstacles.

Social implications

Discursive analysis has become indispensable in order to surmount the collective failure of mainstream economics in the aftermath of the global financial crisis. With the help of textbooks of a new kind, one must go beyond the vision of students as mere consumers of knowledge.

Originality/value

Language for specific purposes has long shown interest in economics, but is the reciprocal true? This paper proposes an original association, by putting the two disciplinary fields on an equal footing, and by bringing new synergies forward.
Mostly empty words – what the discourse of “choice” in health care does
Authors: Nordgren Lars
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This paper has two purposes: one is to analyse how the policy of freedom of choice emerged and was formed in the Swedish health care discourse; the second is related to how free choice influences the discourse in health care and how subjects are formed within the field, i.e. what the language of choice in health care does.

Design/methodology/approach

The research strategy is inspired by a combined theoretical framework borrowed from Michel Foucault's concepts of “discursive formation” and “subjectivization” completed with Judith Butler's concept of performativity.

Findings

The language of “freedom of choice” calls to mind the rhetoric of promises, i.e. that the patient should be free and responsible, in his or her relation to health care. Since patients seem to be insufficiently informed and supported about the actual benefits of possibilities and limitations associated with the severely restricted reform of free choice, the statements concerning opportunities to make personal health decisions will lose their significance. The advocacy of discourses of freedom of choice seems therefore mostly like empty words, as they are producing weak patients instead of free and empowered people.

Research limitations/implications

As the reform was initiated in the beginning of 2000 it is rather fresh.

Originality/value

The paper produces insights into the rhetoric of political promises and the limitations of the reform dealing with freedom of choice in health care.
The role of learning and customer orientation for delivering service quality to patients
Authors: Bellou Victoria
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This study seeks to investigate the impact that learning orientation, internal and external customer orientation have on quality of care delivered to patients. Additionally, given the differences between managerial and non‐managerial employees regarding organizational value perception and focus on the needs of internal customers and patients, the study aims to examine potential variations in these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The study took place in ten out of 31 public hospitals operating in the five largest districts in continental Greece. Hospitals were chosen on a random basis. Out of 800 questionnaires that were personally administered, 499 usable responses were gathered.

Findings

The extent to which employees create and use knowledge and focus on satisfying the needs of both internal customers and patients is indicative of the quality of care provided. In addition, only managerial employees believe that learning orientation reinforces quality of care.

Research limitations/implications

The fact that employees rated quality of care delivered to patients and that most employees had extended tenure should be taken into consideration when interpreting these findings.

Practical implications

Top management needs to create a strong and clear culture that emphasizes learning, as well as internal customer and patient orientation, and infuse them among all organizational members. Moreover, human resource management policies should be aligned to meeting or exceeding patients' requests and expectations.

Originality/value

The paper enhances existing knowledge with regard to the antecedents of offering medical care of high quality.
Taking account of what young women want from school sex education
Authors: Cook Sinead
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This study seeks to explore what young women want from their school‐based sex education.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative methods were used to explore the perspectives of two groups of young women from Uganda and Scotland.

Findings

Of particular importance to all the young women were: a diverse sex education curriculum appropriate to the ages of the students, being taught by an outside female facilitator, single‐sex classes and access to a female teacher. Furthermore, they proposed that discussion between small groups of friends is very useful. The Scottish group said that having a young teacher, teaching about emotions and relationships and being guided through their own decision making is also important. The Ugandan group emphasized the importance of being taught by female family members and having written materials provided on sex education.

Originality/value

The study showed that young women from different backgrounds have strong opinions about sex education, and are an important resource for policy makers.
Disclosing clinical performance: the case of cardiac surgery
Authors: Exworthy Mark , Smith Glenn , Gabe Jonathan , Rees Jones Ian
Published: November 2014

Purpose

In recent years, the clinical performance of named cardiac surgeons in England has been disclosed. This paper aims to explore the nature and impact of disclosure of clinical performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on literature from across the social sciences to assess the impact of disclosure, as a form of transparency, in improving clinical performance. Specifically, it employs the “programme theory” of disclosure.

Findings

The “programme theory” of disclosure involves identification, naming, public sanction and recipient response. Named individual (consultant) surgeons have been identified through disclosure but this masks the contribution of the clinical team, including junior surgeons. Mortality is the prime performance measure but given low mortality rates, there are problems interpreting this measure. The naming of surgeons has been achieved through disclosure on web sites, developed between the health‐care regulator and the surgical profession itself. However, participation remains voluntary. The intention of disclosure is that interested parties (especially patients) will shun poorly performing surgeons. However, these parties' willingness and ability to exercise this sanction appears limited. Surgeons' responses are emergent but about a quarter of surgeons are not participating currently. Fears that surgeons would avoid high‐risk patients seem to have been unrealised. While disclosure may have a small effect on individual reputations, the surgical profession as a whole has embraced disclosure.

Originality/value

While the aim of disclosure has been to create a transparent medical system and to improve clinical performance, disclosure may have the opposite effect, concealing some performance issues and possibly strengthening professional autonomy. Disclosure therefore represents greater transparency in health‐care but it is uncertain whether it will improve performance in the ways that the policy intends.
Connecting organisational culture and quality of care in the hospital: is job burnout the missing link?
Authors: Montgomery Anthony , Panagopoulou Efharis , Kehoe Ian , Valkanos Efthymios
Published: November 2014

Purpose

To date, relatively little evidence has been published as to what represents an effective and efficient way to improve quality of care and safety in hospitals. In addition, the initiatives that do exist are rarely designed or developed with regard to the individual and organisational factors that determine the success or failure of such initiatives. One of the challenges in linking organisational culture to quality of care is to identify the focal point at which a deficient hospital culture and inadequate organisational resources are most evident. The accumulated evidence suggests that such a point is physician burnout. This paper sets out to examine this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the existing literature on organisational culture, burnout and quality of care in the healthcare sector. A new conceptual approach as to how organisational culture and quality of care can be more effectively linked through the physician experience of burnout is proposed.

Findings

Recommendations are provided with regard to how future research can approach quality of care from a bottom‐up organisational change perspective. In addition, the need to widen the debate beyond US and North European experiences is discussed.

Originality/value

The present paper represents an attempt to link organisational culture, job burnout and quality of care in a more meaningful way. A conceptual model has been provided as a way to frame and evaluate future research.
Introducing innovation in a management development programme for a UK primary care organisation
Authors: Smith Paul , Hampson Libby , Scott Jonathan , Bower Karen
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to examine the introduction of innovation as part of a management development programme at a primary care organisation, a legal form known as a Primary Care Trust (PCT), in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on experience of managing a successful management development programme for a PCT. The report of the case study analyses the key events that took place between 2008 and 2010, from direct observation, surveys, discussion and documentary evidence.

Findings

The Northern PCT has partnerships with a number of educational providers to deliver their leadership and management development programmes. A close working relationship had developed and the programme is bespoke – hence it is current and of practical use to the UK's National Health Service (NHS). In addition, there are regular meetings, with module leaders gaining a firsthand understanding of the organisation's needs and aspirations. This has resulted in a very focused and personalised offering and a genuine involvement in the programme and individuals concerned.

Research limitations/implications

The research was conducted among a relatively small sample, and there is a lack of previous literature evidence to make significant comparisons.

Practical implications

The paper identifies key implications for practitioners and educators in this area.

Originality/value

This paper is one of few to investigate innovation and improvement in the NHS, and is unique in that it uses the lenses of a management development programme to explore this important, and under‐researched, topic.
Barriers in implementation of evidence‐based practice
Authors: Hasson Henna , Andersson Mats , Bejerholm Ulrika
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to identify initial barriers influencing implementation of supported employment (SE). SE, according to the individual placement and support (IPS) approach, has been recognised as an evidence‐based method to help people with severe mental illness to find regular employment.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic implementation evaluation of the first randomised controlled SE (IPS) trial in Sweden was conducted in August 2008 and August 2009. Data were collected on a regular basis from SE employment specialists, process heads, clients and representatives from mental health care units and vocational services (social insurance and public employment offices) using interviews, non‐participant observations and document analysis.

Findings

SE employment specialists reported that existing regulations for social insurance and employment regulations presented major obstacles to implementation. Difficulties were reported in cooperation with handling officers at the vocational services. Scepticism towards persons with mental illness was common and employers expected to receive subsidies if they hired a person with mental illness. SE participants expressed fear of losing their social benefits.

Originality/value

The results illuminate a collision between an innovative evidence‐based practice and the existing systems for social benefits and work rehabilitation.
Power in health care organizations
Authors: Isosaari Ulla
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to examine health care organizations' power structures from the first‐line management perspective. What liable power structures derive from the theoretical bases of bureaucratic, professional and result based organizations, and what power type do health care organizations represent, according to the empirical data? The paper seeks to perform an analysis using Mintzberg's power configurations of instrument, closed system, meritocracy and political arena.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical study was executed at the end of 2005 through a survey in ten Finnish hospital districts in both specialized and primary care. Respondents were all first‐line managers in the area and a sample of staff members from internal disease, surgical and psychiatric units, as well as out‐patient and primary care units. The number of respondents was 1,197 and the response percentage was 38. The data were analyzed statistically.

Findings

As a result, it can be seen that a certain kind of organization structure supports the generation of a certain power type. A bureaucratic organization generates an instrument or closed system organization, a professional organization generates meritocracy and also political arena, and a result‐based organization has a connection to political arena and meritocracy. First line managers regarded health care organizations as instruments when staff regarded them mainly as meritocracies having features of political arena. Managers felt their position to be limited by rules, whereas staff members regarded their position as having lots of space and influence potential.

Practical implications

If the organizations seek innovative and active managers at the unit level, they should change the organizational structure and redistribute the work so that there could be more space for meaningful management.

Originality/value

This research adds to the literature and gives helpful suggestions that will be of interest to those in the position of first‐line management in health care.
Culture in community pharmacy organisations: what can we glean from the literature?
Authors: Jacobs Sally , Ashcroft Darren , Hassell Karen
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to report on the findings of a systematic literature review‐seeking to elicit existing evidence of the nature of organisational culture in community pharmacy organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

This review takes a novel approach to systematically identifying and synthesising the peer‐reviewed research literature pertaining to organisational culture in this setting, its antecedents and outcomes.

Findings

The review provides an overview of the scope of and research methods used in the identified literature, together with a narrative synthesis of its findings, framed within five dimensions of organisational culture: the professional‐business role dichotomy; workload, management style, social support and autonomy; professional culture; attitudes to change and innovation; and entrepreneurial orientation.

Research limitations/implications

There is a need for more detailed and holistic exploration of organisational culture in community pharmacy, using a greater diversity of research methods and a greater focus on patient‐related outcomes.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates that, whilst little research has explicitly investigated organisational culture in this context, there exists a range of evidence describing aspects of that culture, some of the environmental and organisational factors helping to shape it, and its impact on the pharmacy workforce, services delivered and business outcomes. It highlights the importance of the business‐professional role dichotomy in community pharmacy; the influence of individual pharmacists' characteristics and organisational setting; and the impact on pharmacists' wellbeing and job satisfaction and the services delivered. It provides less evidence of the impact of organisational culture on the quality and safety of service provision.
Regulating time commitments in healthcare organizations
Authors: Tengelin Ellinor , Arman Rebecka , Wikström Ewa , Dellve Lotta
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore managers' boundary setting in order to better understand their handling of time commitment to work activities, stress, and recovery during everyday work and at home.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper has qualitatively‐driven, mixed method design including observational data, individual interviews, and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed according to Charmaz' view on constructivist grounded theory.

Findings

A first step in boundary setting was to recognize areas with conflicting expectations and inexhaustible needs. Second, strategies were formed through negotiating the handling of managerial time commitment, resulting in boundary‐setting, but also boundary‐dissolving, approaches. The continuous process of individual recognition and negotiation could work as a form of proactive coping, provided that it was acknowledged and questioned.

Research limitations/implications

These findings suggest that recognition of perceived boundary challenges can affect stress and coping. It would therefore be interesting to more accurately assess stress, coping, and health status among managers by means of other methodologies (e.g. physiological assessments).

Practical implications

In regulating managers' work assignments, work‐related stress and recovery, it seems important to: acknowledge boundary work as an ever‐present dilemma requiring continuous negotiation; and encourage individuals and organizations to recognize conflicting perspectives inherent in the leadership assignment, in order to decrease harmful negotiations between them. Such awareness would benefit more sustainable management of healthcare practice.

Originality/value

This paper highlights how managers can handle ever‐present boundary dilemmas in the healthcare sector by regulating their time commitments in various ways.
Managing professionals: exploring the role of the hospital HR function
Authors: McDermott Aoife , Keating Mary
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the role of the HR function in the management of professional and non‐professional staff in the acute hospital sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was adopted. Empirical data from three hospital case studies is utilised to explore the role of the hospital HR function. Cases were compiled from 45 interviews, observation and secondary data analysis.

Findings

The paper finds that in two of the three cases the human resource (HR) function predominantly provides services to non‐professional workforce groups. However, the effective and strategic management of professionals is undertaken in the third case, without a professional HR function.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this paper require some caution in extrapolation, being based on research in one national context. The authors suggest the delivery of service as a useful lens to explore the enacted practice of HRM in hospitals.

Practical implications

The paper draws attention to a significant deficit in the role of the HR function in managing core professional staff.

Originality/value

The paper applies an existing conceptual framework to explore the role of the HR function in hospitals. It identifies a significant deficit in the management of core professional staff. On this basis the paper suggests alternative research methodologies to investigate the management of all hospital staff.
Effective longitudinal magnetic response of magnetic metamaterial in the GHz frequencies
Authors: Rybin Oleg , Yemelyanov Konstantin , Pitafi Amjad , Nawaz Tahira
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the microwave behaviour of effective magnetic permeability for two‐component ferrite like metamaterial medium in the direction of a biasing magnetic field. The metamaterial medium is presented as an infinite host dielectric material (air) with periodically embedded ferric cylindrical and spherical inclusions saturated with an external dc magnetic field. The study is based on the effective medium theory developed for polycrystalline metaferrites. The simulations show that the presented metamaterial can exhibit the ultra‐low refractive index (ULI) phenomenon and the phenomenon of negative magnetic permeability for the case of microwave propagation in the direction of bias.

Design/methodology/approach

The obtained results are based on the wave long approximation of permeability tensor of the presented metamaterial media obtained earlier by the first author. Using the standard approach, the authors apply the above expressions for the microwave propagation in direction of biasing dc magnetic field considering different polarization of the incident microwave.

Findings

The considered artificial material media can become either material with a ULI or with negative values in the GHz frequencies.

Originality/value

The paper is concerned with part of the theory of a new generation of artificial ferrites.