bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machiavelli, management and outsourcing: still on the learning curve
Authors: Willcocks Leslie
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe and assess the evolution of client and supplier approaches and capabilities from 1989 to 2010 in relation to outsourcing and delineate four phases which client learning can be observed to pass through over time. It assesses the lessons that outsourcing stakeholders can absorb from this short but rich history.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a detailed review of 20 years of research into 1,600+outsourcing arrangements studied overtime, and carried out by the author with a range of colleagues, covering IT and business process outsourcing and offshoring practices.

Findings

The paper finds that learning has been slow and not passed well within organizations or across from the fields of ITO to BPO and offshore outsourcing. Retained capabilities emerge as a key lifebelt for survival. However, the more recent history has seen more moves towards greater collaboration, which make more objectives and innovation possible.

Research limitations/implications

The paper provides a review of extant research, rather than providing new research.

Practical implications

The outsourcing growth in prospect over the next few years depends for its management success on a shift from a power‐based orientation to governance structures and trust building and collaboration, given the otherwise high costs involved in monitoring and imposing sanctions, the negative orientations and behaviours adopted, and the limited goals that can be pursued by the parties.

Originality/value

The paper takes a historical perspective to outsourcing, and looks at evolution of the whole global market over 20 years.
What motivates manufacturing SMEs to outsource offshore in China?
Authors: Sinha Paresha , Akoorie Michèle E.M. , Ding Qiang , Wu Qian
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the motivations for offshore outsourcing encountered by manufacturing small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) and their suppliers in China. The paper explores the motivations and challenges encountered by SMEs choosing to outsource their manufacturing activities and why their suppliers engage with them.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study method was utilized. The authors obtained perspectives of SME managers as well as the suppliers for each of the cases, conducting in‐depth interviews in order to obtain comprehensive information about their outsourcing activities. Then, cross‐case analysis was carried out using content analysis techniques to identify key themes for the motivations to undertake offshore outsourcing.

Findings

The results showed that the first rationale for offshore outsourcing relates to increasing efficiency and labor cost reduction while holding quality constant. The second rationale is to maintain flexibility in resource allocation providing both manufacturing SMEs and their suppliers with an opportunity to enter new markets. For both manufacturing firms and their suppliers building a relationship through networks and alliances was the key to the success (learning orientation) of the partnership.

Practical implications

The managerial implications of the findings are that first, from the perspective of client firms, the most important factor for success in manufacturing offshore outsourcing was maintaining good relationships with suppliers. The benefits of having close relationships with suppliers for outsourcing firms helped them to secure the quality of their products. The second managerial implication is from the perspective of the supplier firms. Supplier firms which were also aware of the transaction cost implications of their delivery while improving their own international image by supplying international clients. The evidence supplied suggests that supplier firms can benefit from using networks to assist them to gain international exposure.

Originality/value

While there are numerous studies on offshore outsourcing by multinational enterprises (MNEs) and large enterprises, there are relatively fewer studies on manufacturing offshore outsourcing by SMEs. Using the three theoretical lenses of the transaction cost approach, the core competences and the alliances, networks and internationalization approach, the paper offers insights on the reasons for and outcomes of a group of SMEs decision to undertake offshoring‐manufacturing activities in China. Also, the paper examines the manufacturing offshore outsourcing issues from the perspective of the suppliers to these SMEs.
Sustainable strategic sourcing decisions
Authors: Timlon Joachim
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and analyze the factors that influence strategic sourcing decisions to the Brazilian market based on societal and natural values.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study method is used because of its suitability for exploring how a Scandinavian multinational corporation can respond to the social context in the Brazilian market by matching, in competition with other firms, its own values, norms and beliefs to those prevailing in the Brazilian market.

Findings

The response to the social context in the Brazilian market and the integration with the group's ethical standards comprise certain appropriate corporate social responsibility practices that result in natural and social benefits for the stakeholders, which in turn creates social advantages.

Research limitations/implications

The study is focused on the Brazilian market and would benefit from the availability of data in other emerging country markets that pose potential outsourcing destinations, enabling a comprehensive analysis from an integrated economic and sustainability perspective, including how societal advantages are transformed into competitive advantages.

Practical implications

Management scholars should apply a socio‐economic perspective to strategic sourcing decisions in emerging country markets in accordance with the logic of appropriateness, which enables a broader and more holistic approach towards strategic sourcing decisions, what influences them, how to sustain them, and deciding how to effectively match the requirements of the external institutional setting of the specific emerging country market and how to establish relationships between decision makers on global and regional levels.

Originality/value

In contrast to authors who have theorized about strategic sourcing decisions from an economic market perspective, a socio‐economic approach is taken in this paper to establish an institutional base and a network foundation for analyzing the social context of the Brazilian market.
Accessing emergency rest centres in the UK – lessons learnt
Authors: Kipling Joe , Newton Rita , Ormerod Marcus
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine access for disabled people to emergency rest centres (ERCs) provision in the UK. ERCs are premises used for the temporary accommodation of evacuees during an emergency situation. They form an important part of emergency response, by providing a focal point for receiving people and providing food, shelter, information and support.

Design/methodology/approach

Three case studies of ERCs that were established in different local authority areas within the Yorkshire and Humber region in the UK, during a flooding event on 25 June 2007, were used to determine the level of accessibility and inclusion of disabled people at these centres.

Findings

While uncovering many instances of good practise, the results from the research identified lessons to be learnt, in particular the main barriers to access were: facilities and elements that did not comprise part of the building's normal operation, such as the provision of bedding, medical assistance and effective communication; and facilities that would not normally be expected to be used to the extent, or duration, whilst the ERC was in operation, such as the adequate welfare facilities. The research found that the civil protection legislation within the UK contains limited guidance for those with responsibility for ERC provision, and little impetus for emergency planners to consider the needs of disabled people.

Practical implications

The paper has broad implications for local authorities and national government representatives. It identifies a need for those with responsibility for emergency planning and response to strengthen their knowledge of disabled people, and to adopt a more holistic approach to the provision of emergency planning and response.

Originality/value

The study of access issues in ERC situations, as far as the authors are aware, has not been studied previously.
Swine flu in Buenos Aires: beyond the principle of resilience
Authors: Korstanje Maximiliano E.
Published: February 2011

Purpose

Throughout April/May of 2009 a new type of virus surfaced in Mexico and the USA, denominated H1N1 or swine flu, that has been immediately disseminated worldwide. Even though the mortality of this virus has been slow, comparing with other antecedents, the mass‐media articulated a troublesome discourse that put the world in tenterhooks waiting for the evolution of the symptoms. Emulating the mythical archetype of what we knew as Spanish flu, which affected more than 50 million people during 1918 and 1920, journalism triggered panic in the four corners of the world. Under such a context, the purpose of this paper is to explore the connection between the coverage of mass‐media and press of swine flu in Buenos Aires (Argentina), and how the principle of resilience in this conjuncture works.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to understand this issue in an all‐encompassed manner, the author conducted ethnography in Buenos Aires during April to June of 2009 combining informal with formal interviews and analysis of contents extracted of press coverage. It is important to mention that the role of observer was hidden to capture vividly the social behaviour as long as a context of health emergency.

Findings

The findings of this research reveal that fear becomes an efficient instrument to keep the status quo in context of disasters. In addition, it is important to clarify that virtual disasters do not permit societies to learn of their tragedies and affects considerably their abilities for resilience.

Research limitations/implications

Unfortunately, there is no abundant literature to support the outcomes of the present paper in respect to swine flu. Beyond ethical boundaries of journalism, the point of discussion, here, seems to be whether news should be edited or transmitted in rough during a moment of uncertainty. As a whole, the debate is circumscribed to non‐edited news which can result in uncontrollable society response, while edited news jeopardizes the freedom of the press.

Originality/value

This paper provides an original point of view that contrasts the thesis of Baudrillard in respect to the spectacle of disaster. The panic disseminated by media blurs the boundaries between culprit and innocence presenting to the poorest sectors as the main concerns of society. That way, the earlier imbalances that allowed the disasters are replicated once again. In contrast with Baudrillard, this paper considers that Swine flu really took place and was something other than a show. An event like this, elaborated and commercialized is of course, aimed at reinforcing the legitimacy of privileged groups.
Reconstruction projects by using core housing method in Iran
Authors: Fayazi Mahmood
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare rural houses reconstructed by core housing method after the Manjil earthquake in 1990 and traditional housing. Also, other factors such as residential space needs of residents, the role of the used structure in building the core units and the role of climatic conditions in the expansion of residential units have been investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Some rural houses which were reconstructed by using core housing method – 86 rural houses – in 20 different villages were investigated using quantity and quality method. Also, the rate of satisfaction of inhabitants with their reconstructed houses was evaluated.

Findings

Although rural houses were reconstructed with inhabitants' participation and with use of local technology and materials, those houses had some characteristics contrary to traditional houses. Another problem was in the gradual expansion of spaces, which led to disharmonious and unbalanced growth and converted the houses into a complex and closed entity. It caused trouble in privacy and connections of family members and in the use of spaces.

Originality/value

The paper reports research generally done on rural houses which were reconstructed after the Manjil earthquake in 1990 and shows that this reconstruction experience was done by using core housing method. Also, how the core units were expanded was analyzed and advantages and disadvantages of this reconstruction experience were extracted. These results can be useful in planning and designing shelters for survivors of future disasters.
Performance of a third‐generation TSH‐receptor antibody in a UK clinic
Authors: Theodoraki A. , Jones G. , Parker J. , Woolman E. , Martin N. , Perera S. , Thomas M. , Bunn C. , Khoo B. , Bouloux P. M. , Vanderpump M. P. J.
Published: February 2011

Background  UK national guidelines recommend the measurement of TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb) in certain clinical scenarios. A commercial third‐generation TRAb autoantibody M22‐biotin ELISA assay was introduced in May 2008 in our centre.

Objective  To evaluate the diagnostic performance of a TRAb assay in a retrospective and subsequently a prospective cohort in a UK centre.

Design  A retrospective review of patients with thyroid disease followed by a prospective observational study in consecutive patients with newly found suppressed serum thyrotrophin (TSH).

Patients and Measurements  Medical records of 200 consecutive patients with thyroid disorders who had TRAb measured since the introduction of the assay. In a prospective study 44 patients with newly identified hyperthyroidism (TSH < 0·02 mIU/l) had sera assayed for TRAb prior to their clinic appointment at which a final diagnosis was sought.

Results  In the retrospective cohort, the manufacturer’s cut‐off point of TRAb ≥0·4 U/l resulted in a positive predictive value (PPV) of 95%, sensitivity 85%, specificity 94% and negative predictive value (NVP) 79% to diagnose Graves’ disease using defined criteria. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis determined an optimal cut‐off point of TRAb ≥3·5 U/l with a 100% specificity to exclude patients without Graves’ disease at the cost though of a lower sensitivity (43%). In the prospective study, the sensitivity, PPV, specificity and NPV were all 96% using the ≥0·4 U/l cut‐off. When combining hyperthyroid patients from both cohorts the assay sensitivity and specificity at ≥0·4 U/l cut‐off were 95% and 92% respectively. A positive TRAb result increased the probability of Graves’ disease for a particular patient by 25–35% and only six (2·5%) patients had a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism of uncertain aetiology after TRAb testing.

Conclusions  The assay studied specifically identifies patients with Graves’ disease. It is a reliable tool in the initial clinical assessment to determine the aetiology of hyperthyroidism and has the potential for cost‐savings.
Minimising preoperative anxiety with music for day surgery patients – a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Ni Cheng‐Hua , Tsai Wei‐Her , Lee Liang‐Ming , Kao Ching‐Chiu , Chen Yi‐Chung
Published: February 2011

Aims and objectives.  The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of musical intervention on preoperative anxiety and vital signs in patients undergoing day surgery.

Background.  Studies and systematic meta‐analyses have shown inconclusive results of the efficacy of music in reducing preoperative anxiety. We designed a study to provide additional evidence for its use in preoperative nursing care.

Design.  Randomised, controlled study.

Method.  Patients (n = 183) aged 18–65 admitted to our outpatient surgery department were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (music delivered by earphones) or control group (no music) for 20 minutes before surgery. Anxiety, measured by the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory, and vital signs were measured before and after the experimental protocol.

Results.  A total of 172 patients (60 men and 112 women) with a mean age of 40·90 (SD 11·80) completed the study. The largest number (35·7%) was undergoing elective plastic surgery and 76·7% of the total reported previous experience with surgery. Even though there was only a low‐moderate level of anxiety at the beginning of the study, both groups showed reduced anxiety and improved vital signs compared with baseline values; however, the intervention group reported significantly lower anxiety [mean change: −5·83 (SD 0·75) vs. −1·72 (SD 0·65), p < 0·001] on the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory compared with the control group.

Conclusions.  Patients undergoing day surgery may benefit significantly from musical intervention to reduce preoperative anxiety and improve physiological parameters.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Finding multimodal approaches to ease discomfort and anxiety from unfamiliar unit surroundings and perceived risks of morbidity (e.g. disfigurement and long‐term sequelae) is necessary to reduce preoperative anxiety and subsequent physiological complications. This is especially true in the day surgery setting, where surgical admission times are often subject to change and patients may have to accommodate on short notice or too long a wait that may provoke anxiety. Our results provide additional evidence that musical intervention may be incorporated into routine nursing care for patients undergoing minor surgery.
Gene conversion results in the equalization of genome copies in the polyploid haloarchaeon Haloferax volcanii
Authors: Lange Christian , Zerulla Karolin , Breuert Sebastian , Soppa Jörg
Published: February 2011

Haloferax volcanii is highly polyploid and contains about 20 copies of the major chromosome. A heterozygous strain was constructed that contained two different types of genomes: the leuB locus contained either the wild‐type leuB gene or a leuB:trpA gene introduced by gene replacement. As the trpA locus is devoid of the wild‐type trpA gene, growth in the absence of both amino acids is only possible when both types of genomes are simultaneously present, exemplifying gene redundancy and the potential to form heterozygous cells as one possible evolutionary advantage of polyploidy. The heterozygous strain was grown (i) in the presence of tryptophan, selecting for the presence of leuB, (ii) in the presence of leucine selecting for leuB:trpA and (iii) in the absence of selection. Both types of genomes were quantified with real‐time PCR. The first condition led to a complete loss of leuB:trpA‐containing genomes, while under the second condition leuB‐containing genomes were lost. Also in the absence of selection gene conversion led to a fast equalization of genomes and resulted in homozygous leuB‐containing cells. Gene conversion leading to genome equalization can explain the escape from ‘Muller's ratchet’ as well as the ease of mutant construction using polyploid haloarchaea.
Cell‐to‐cell transport via the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum
Authors: Barton Deborah A. , Cole Louise , Collings David A. , Liu Danny Y. T. , Smith Penelope M. C. , Day David A. , Overall Robyn L.
Published: February 2011

Plasmodesmata are plasma membrane‐lined channels through which cytoplasmic molecules move from cell‐to‐cell in plants. Most plasmodesmata contain a desmotubule, a central tube of endoplasmic reticulum (ER), that connects the ER of adjacent cells. Here we demonstrate that molecules of up to 10.4 kDa in size can move between the ER lumen of neighbouring leaf trichome or epidermal cells via the desmotubule lumen. Fluorescent molecules of up to 10 kDa, microinjected into the ER of Nicotiana trichome cells, consistently moved into the ER and nuclei of neighbouring trichome cells. This movement occurred more rapidly than movement via the cytoplasmic pathway. A fluorescent 3‐kDa dextran microinjected into the ER of a basal trichome cell moved into the ER and nuclei of epidermal cells across a barrier to cytoplasmic movement. We constructed a 10.4‐kDa recombinant ER‐lumenal reporter protein (LRP) from a fragment of the endogenous ER‐lumenal binding protein AtBIP1. Following transient expression of the LRP in the ER of Tradescantia leaf epidermal cells, it often moved into the nuclear envelopes of neighbouring cells. However, green fluorescent protein targeted to the ER lumen (ER‐GFP) did not move from cell to cell. We propose that the ER lumen of plant cells is continuous with that of their neighbours, and allows movement of small ER‐lumenal molecules between cells.
Standardised versus actual white cell counts in estimating thick film parasitaemia in African children under five
Authors: Olliaro Piero , Djimdé Abdoulaye , Karema Corine , Mårtensson Andreas , Ndiaye Jean‐Louis , Sirima Sodiomon B. , Dorsey Grant , Zwang Julien
Published: February 2011

In patients with malaria, parasitaemia is usually estimated by assuming 8000 white cell counts (WCC) per microlitre of blood. In a sample of 3044 African children under 5 years of age with uncomplicated falciparum malaria, parasitaemia estimated using standardised WCC was compared to parasitaemia calculated based on each child’s own WCC. The two methods produced comparable results. However, WCC were >8000 in under‐fives with an inverse relationship with age, resulting in the standard approximation method significantly underestimating parasitaemia in the youngest age group and overestimating parasitaemia in the oldest age groups.
Expressing yeast SAMdc gene confers broad changes in gene expression and alters fatty acid composition in tomato fruit
Authors: Kolotilin Igor , Koltai Hinanit , Bar‐Or Carmiya , Chen Lea , Nahon Sahadia , Shlomo Haviva , Levin Ilan , Reuveni Moshe
Published: February 2011

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruits expressing a yeast S‐adenosyl methionine decarboxylase (ySAMdc) gene under control of a ripening‐induced promoter show altered phytonutrient content and broad changes in gene expression. Genome‐wide transcriptional alterations in pericarp tissues of the ySAMdc‐expressing fruits are shown. Consistent with the ySAMdc expression pattern from the ripening‐induced promoter, very minor transcriptional alterations were detected at the mature green developmental stage. At the breaker and red stages, altered levels of numerous transcripts were observed with a general tendency toward upregulation in the transgenic fruits. Ontological analysis of up‐ and downregulated transcript groups revealed various affected metabolic processes, mainly carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, and protein synthesis, which appeared to be intensified in the ripening transgenic fruits. Other functional ontological categories of altered transcripts represented signal transduction, transcription regulation, RNA processing, molecular transport and stress response, as well as metabolism of lipids, glycans, xenobiotics, energy, cofactors and vitamins. In addition, transcript levels of genes encoding structural enzymes for several biosynthetic pathways showed strong correlations to levels of specific metabolites that displayed altered levels in transgenic fruits. Increased transcript levels of fatty acid biosynthesis enzymes were accompanied by a change in the fatty acid profile of transgenic fruits, most notably increasing ω‐3 fatty acids at the expense of other lipids. Thus, SAMdc is a prime target in manipulating the nutritional value of tomato fruits. Combined with analyses of selected metabolites in the overripe fruits, a model of enhanced homeostasis of the pericarp tissue in the polyamine‐accumulating tomatoes is proposed.
Cerebral phaeohyphomycosis caused by Bipolaris spicifera after heart transplantation
Authors: Rosow L. , Jiang J.X. , Deuel T. , Lechpammer M. , Zamani A.A. , Milner D.A. , Folkerth R. , Marty F.M. , Kesari S.
Published: February 2011

L. Rosow, J.X. Jiang, T. Deuel, M. Lechpammer, A.A. Zamani, D.A. Milner, R. Folkerth, F.M. Marty, S. Kesari. Cerebral phaeohyphomycosis caused by Bipolaris spicifera after heart transplantation. Transpl Infect Dis 2011: 13: 419–423. All rights reserved

Abstract: Phaeohyphomycosis is an increasingly recognized cause of brain abscess in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised hosts. We report a case of cerebral phaeohyphomycosis in a 55‐year‐old male heart transplant recipient caused by Bipolaris spicifera. We review the literature regarding the pathogenesis, epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of infections with dematiaceous fungi.
Variability and constraint in the mammalian vertebral column
Authors: ASHER R. J. , LIN K. H. , KARDJILOV N. , HAUTIER L.
Published: February 2011

Patterns of vertebral variation across mammals have seldom been quantified, making it difficult to test hypotheses of covariation within the axial skeleton and mechanisms behind the high level of vertebral conservatism among mammals. We examined variation in vertebral counts within 42 species of mammals, representing monotremes, marsupials and major clades of placentals. These data show that xenarthrans and afrotherians have, on average, a high proportion of individuals with meristic deviations from species’ median series counts. Monotremes, xenarthrans, afrotherians and primates show relatively high variation in thoracolumbar vertebral count. Among the clades sampled in our dataset, rodents are the least variable, with several species not showing any deviations from median vertebral counts, or vertebral anomalies such as asymmetric ribs or transitional vertebrae. Most mammals show significant correlations between sacral position and length of the rib cage; only a few show a correlation between sacral position and number of sternebrae. The former result is consistent with the hypothesis that adult axial skeletal structures patterned by distinct mesodermal tissues are modular and covary; the latter is not. Variable levels of correlation among these structures may indicate that the boundaries of prim/abaxial mesodermal precursors of the axial skeleton are not uniform across species. We do not find evidence for a higher frequency of vertebral anomalies in our sample of embryos or neonates than in post‐natal individuals of any species, contrary to the hypothesis that stabilizing selection plays a major role in vertebral patterning.
Putative mutation of PKD1 gene responsible for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease in a Chinese family
Authors: Li Jing , Yu Chaowen , Tao Ye , Yang Yuan , Hu Zhangxue , Zhang Sizhong
Published: February 2011

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a common and severe renal disease. Mutations of PKD1 and PKD2 genes are responsible for approximately 85% and 15% of ADPKD cases, respectively. In the present study, PKD1 and PKD2 genes were analyzed in a large Chinese family with ADPKD using denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography and DNA sequencing. A novel mutation, c.3623‐3624insGTGT in exon 15 of the PKD1 gene, was identified in all nine affected family members, but not in any unaffected consanguineous relatives or 100 unrelated controls. These findings suggest that the unique 4 bp insertion, c.3623‐3624insGTGT, in the PKD1 gene might be the pathogenic mutation responsible for the disease in this family.
Characterization of the urethral plate and the underlying tissue defined by expression of collagen subtypes and microarchitecture in hypospadias
Authors: Hayashi Yutaro , Mizuno Kentaro , Kojima Yoshiyuki , Moritoki Yoshinobu , Nishio Hidenori , Kato Toshiki , Kurokawa Satoshi , Kamisawa Hideyuki , Kohri Kenjiro
Published: February 2011

Objectives:  In hypospadia patients, the urethral plate and the underlying tissue were previously thought to be the main cause of penile curvature and, because of this, they used to be excised to correct the curvature. Currently, they are preserved as they are not thought to cause penile curvature anymore. The aim of the present histology study was to elucidate the characteristic structure of the tissue beneath the urethral plate.

Methods:  The experimental group consisted of 27 hypospadiac patients with moderately severe penile curvature, who underwent one‐stage urethroplasty after dividing the urethral plate. Excised tissues were observed under light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Furthermore, the presence of collagen subtypes I, III and IV was examined with immunohistochemical staining and western blotting.

Results:  Light microscopy showed the existence of many massed and intertwined collagen fibers and vessels that resembled those of the cavernous sinus. TEM showed the existence of many collagen fibers, capillary vessels and other structures. Immunohistochemical staining showed collagen subtype I in the interfascicular space and collagen fibers were densely stained. Collagen subtype IV was found in the basement membrane of vessels, but collagen subtype III was not detected. The same results were obtained by western blotting.

Conclusions:  The tissue beneath the urethral plate was considered to originate from the corpus spongiosum penis. The distribution of collagen subtypes suggests that the presence of the tissue might affect ventral penile curvature. Long‐term follow up is required after one‐stage hypospadias repair with preservation of the urethral plate and the underlying tissue.
A qualitative content analysis of nurse–patient communication in Iranian nursing
Authors: Fakhr‐Movahedi A. , Salsali M. , Negharandeh R. , Rahnavard Z.
Published: February 2011

Fakhr‐Movahedi A., Salsali M., Negharandeh R. & Rahnavard Z. (2011) A qualitative content analysis of nurse–patient communication in Iranian nursing. International Nursing Review58, 171–180

Background:  Communication is the source of patients' health promotion, and nurses cannot do their duties without communicating with patients. Nurses with good communication skills have a great role in alleviating the stressful identity of hospitalization for both patients and their families.

Aim:  To explore cultural and contextual factors influencing nurse–patient communication according to lived experiences of Iranian nurses and patients.

Methods:  The participants in this qualitative study consisted of eight bachelor's degree nurses and nine patients hospitalized in surgical and medical wards of a referral teaching hospital in Tehran, Iran. Data were gathered through unstructured and semi‐structured interviews as well as observations. The data were analysed using a content analysis approach.

Findings:  The data analysis revealed the following theme that encompassed nurse–patient communication in Iranian nursing: ‘a patient‐centred attitude in the shadow of mechanistic structure’. This theme consisted of three categories: (1) communication as the essence of nursing care, (2) reactive communication and (3) difficulties of nurse–patient communication.

Conclusion:  In spite of the nurses' and patients' belief in the importance of communication, in practice each party's role in communication leaves much to be desired. This is because of some structural and socio‐cultural factors that hinder effective communication. More attention should be paid by policy makers to remove factors that hinder the nurse–patient communication process.
Internal and external environmental factors affecting the performance of hospital‐based home nursing care
Authors: Noh J.‐W. , Kwon Y.‐D. , Yoon S.‐J. , Hwang J.‐I.
Published: February 2011

NOH J.‐W., KWON Y.‐D., YOON S.‐J. & HWANG J.‐I. (2011) Internal and external environmental factors affecting the performance of hospital‐based home nursing care. International Nursing Review58, 263–269

Aims:  This study aimed to measure the performance of hospital‐based home nursing care (HNC) and identify internal and external factors affecting the performance.

Background:  Numerous studies on HNC services have been carried out by signifying their needs, efficiency and effectiveness. However, no study has ever been performed to determine the critical factors associated with HNC's positive results despite the deluge of positive studies on the service.

Methods:  This study included all of the 89 training hospitals that were practising HNC service in Korea as of November 2006. The input factors affecting the performance were classified as either internal or external environmental factors. This analysis was conducted to understand the impact that the corresponding factors had on performance. Data were analysed by using multiple linear regressions.

Results:  The internal and external environment variables affected the performance of HNC based on univariate analysis. The meaningful variables were internal environmental factors. Specifically, managerial resource (the number of operating beds and the outpatient/inpatient ratio) were meaningful when the multiple linear regression analysis was performed. Indeed, the importance of organizational culture (the passion of HNC nurses) was significant.

Conclusion:  This study, considering the limited market size of Korea, illustrates that the critical factor for the development of hospital‐led HNC lies with internal environmental factors rather than external ones. Among the internal environmental factors, the hospitals' managerial resource‐related factors (specifically, the passion of nurses) were the most important contributing element.
Nursing personnel's perceptions of the organizational climate in public and private hospitals in Spain
Authors: Garcia‐Garcia I. , Ramos V. Benítez , Serrano J.L. Cobos , Ramos Cobos M.C. , Souza A.
Published: February 2011

GARCIA‐GARCIA I., BENÍTEZ RAMOS V., COBOS SERRANO J.L., RAMOS COBOS M.C., SOUZA A. (2011) Nursing personnel's perceptions of the organizational climate in public and private hospitals in Spain. International Nursing Review58, 234–241

Background:  Organizational climate is considered one of the most significant determinants of individual and group behaviour in institutions. The International Council of Nurses has launched a campaign to improve professional recognition, support for personal development, safety and health at work.

Aim:  To analyse nursing personnel's organizational climate perceptions using the Work Environment Scale (WES) in two categories of hospitals.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional survey was undertaken in public and private hospitals. Two sampling approaches were used. At the Public Hospital, the sample was randomly selected (n = 297, 168 nurses and 129 other nursing personnel). At the Private Hospitals, a convenience sampling method was used (n = 66, 14 nurses and 52 other nursing personnel). The study used descriptive and inferential statistic analyses to explain the nursing personnel perception of organizational climate and to explore variations between nurses and other nursing personnel in both categories of hospitals.

Results:  Sixty per cent and seventy per cent of WES subscales yielded scores below the midpoint for the perception of work environment in public and private hospitals, respectively. Mean scores for both categories were similar, except for the subscales of Pressure and Control that were higher in Private Hospitals. In the Public Hospital, nurses scored significantly lower than other nursing personnel in Involvement, Innovation and Comfort.

Conclusions:  Based on these findings, it is suggested that nurse managers should introduce strategies to set conditions for a better work environment in public and private hospitals.
Practices for caring in nursing: Brazilian research groups
Authors: Erdmann A.L. , de Andrade S.R. , Ferreira de Mello A.L. , Klock P. , do Nascimento K.C. , Santos Koerich M. , Stein Backes D.
Published: February 2011

ERDMANN A.L., DE ANDRADE S.R., FERREIRA DE MELLO A.L., KLOCK P., DO NASCIMENTO K.C., SANTOS KOERICH M. & STEIN BACKES D. (2011) Practices for caring in nursing: Brazilian research groups. International Nursing Review58, 379–385

Background:  The present study considers the production of knowledge and the interactions in the environment of research and their relationships in the system of caring in nursing and health.

Aim:  To elaborate a theoretical model of the organization of the practices used for caring, based on the experiences made by the research groups of administration and management in nursing, in Brazil.

Methods:  The study is based on grounded theory. Twelve leaders of research groups, working as professors in public universities in the south and the south‐east of Brazil, distributed in sample groups, were interviewed.

Findings:  The core phenomenon ‘research groups of administration and management in nursing: arrangements and interactions in the system of caring in nursing’ was derived from the categories: conceptual bases and contexts of the research groups; experiencing interactions in the research groups; functionality of the research groups; and outputs of the research groups. The research groups are integrated in the system of caring in nursing.

Conclusions:  The activities of the Brazilian administration and management in nursing research groups are process oriented and in a process of constant renovation, socially relevant, operate in a complex scenario and contribute to the advancement of the organizations of the system of caring in nursing through strengthening the connection among academia, service and community.
Conflict management in public hospitals: the Cyprus case
Authors: Pavlakis A. , Kaitelidou D. , Theodorou M. , Galanis P. , Sourtzi P. , Siskou O.
Published: February 2011

PAVLAKIS A., KAITELIDOU D., THEODOROU M., GALANIS P., SOURTZI P.& SISKOU O. (2011) Conflict management in public hospitals: the Cyprus case. International Nursing Review58, 242–248

Background:  Conflict among health‐care personnel has been identified as an issue within health‐care settings around the world.

Aim:  To investigate the existence and management of conflict among health‐care personnel in public hospitals in Cyprus; to assess the factors leading to conflict among staff members; to evaluate the consequences of conflict arising; and to consider the management strategies.

Methods:  A self‐administered questionnaire was completed by a random sample of 1037 health‐care professionals in all (seven) state‐run hospitals in Cyprus in 2008.

Results:  Mean age of respondents was 41 years, and 75% were female. Sixty‐four per cent of respondents reported that they had never been informed about conflict management strategies, with physicians being the least informed as the relative percentage was 79.8% (χ2 = 33, P < 0.001). Sixty per cent of health‐care professionals reported conflict at work with other health‐care personnel one to five times per week, and 37% of the respondents stated that they devote 90 min (mean value) from work during their shift in conflict resolution, meaning that managing conflicts may absorb 19% of working time daily. The majority of respondents agreed that organizational problems and communication gaps were the main issues creating conflict. Avoidance and collaboration were the preferable strategies for conflict resolution, used by 36.6% and 37.5% of the respondents, respectively.

Conclusion:  Better communication, fair management practices and clear job descriptions and expectations may be needed in order to facilitate change and reverse the negative atmosphere that exists. Further education in conflict management for physicians, nurses and their managers may also be needed.
Commuting patterns among Italian nurses: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Festini F. , Ciofi D. , Bisogni S.
Published: February 2011

FESTINI F., CIOFI D. & BISOGNI S. (2011) Commuting patterns among Italian nurses: a cross‐sectional study. International Nursing Review58, 354–360

Commuting is an additional burden that affects working stress, reduces leisure time and raises the risk of accidents. Little data are available about nurses' commuting patterns or the impact of commuting on their lives.

Objectives:  The study aims to describe commuting patterns among Italian nurses and to explore possible associations with nurses' intention to change job.

Methods:  This is a cross‐sectional study carried out in central Italy. Nurses were invited to participate through a variety of public measures. Those participating completed an online questionnaire available on a website established for this specific purpose.

Results:  Five hundred sixty‐five nurses participated. The mean distance covered every day to go to work and back home is 30.8 km. A total of 43.3% of nurses cover 25 km or more every day to work; 5.7% cover 100 km or more. The mean time spent in commuting is 52.9 min daily. Furthermore, 14.5% of nurses spend every month commuting a time equal to or longer than the working time of 1 week. The mean monthly expenditure is 87.30 Euro (6% of mean salary). Nurses younger than 30 cover longer distances (P = 0.0006), spend more time (P = 0.001) and have higher expenditure (P = 0.003) than their older colleagues. Willingness to change job seems associated with the use of public means of transportation (P = 0.04). Nurses from the population under study cover longer distances, spend longer time in daily commuting and have higher monthly costs than the rest of the Italian workers' population.

Conclusions:  Travelling to work represents a non‐negligible burden for nurses, particularly for younger nurses. Nurses seem to have lesser opportunities to rest and to recover energies than other workers. The Italian nurses' recruiting system may have a role in explaining our data. Further studies are needed to investigate the impact of nurses' commuting on the healthcare system.
Young adults talk about their problems
Authors: JACOBSSON GUNNEL , TYSKLIND FREDRIK , WERBART ANDRZEJ
Published: February 2011

Jacobsson, G., Tysklind, F. & Werbart, A. (2011). Young adults talk about their problems. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology52, 282–289.

This study aims to explore how young adults in psychotherapy and young adults in general describe their problems and how their problem formulations change over time. Two matched samples from longitudinal prospective studies were compared using thematic analysis. Semi‐structured, in‐depth interviews were conducted at baseline, 1.5 years after termination of psychotherapy (N = 12) in the clinical sample and 3 years after baseline in the non clinical sample (N = 12). Inductive thematic analysis revealed six themes: problems associated with oneself, family, intimate relationships, sense of belonging, occupation, and social roles. The psychotherapy sample was characterized by problems with oneself closely related to other problematic areas, at both pre‐treatment and at follow‐up 1.5 years after termination, while problematic sense of belonging was a general theme only prior to psychotherapy. However, they were less troubled by their problems after psychotherapy. Problems with oneself decreased considerably in the non‐clinical sample, while problems with intimate relationships were twice as frequent at follow‐up. In the psychotherapy sample, the initial experience of being passively trapped within their problems was transformed into an experience of being an active agent in their own life. However, considerable differences between the psychotherapy sample and non‐clinical sample still persisted at follow‐up.
English in Hungarian advertising
Authors: PÉTERY DOROTTYA
Published: February 2011

ABSTRACT:  This study investigates the construction of linguistic modernity via English mixing in the discourse of Hungarian television commercials. By identifying the group of commercials as a special discourse, it explores the creation of a modern identity attached to the presence of Anglicized items in the texts of the advertisements. Thirty‐two hours of commercials were video‐taped in Budapest, Hungary, during weekly prime time in February 2008. A total of 208 advertising spots were analysed. The findings suggest that mixing English with Hungarian is a linguistic mechanism for the establishment of the idea of modernity in contemporary Hungary. It is argued that the use of English is a central linguistic expression of modernity, while the absence of English is linguistically associated with tradition.
Teaching English in Indian contexts: toward a pedagogic model
Authors: KAUSHIK SHARDA
Published: February 2011

ABSTRACT:  This study addresses an important problem in English pedagogy in one Outer Circle context, that of India, in that it investigates the match between the stated goals of English teaching in the policy documents and their implementation in actual curriculum, teaching and testing practices. In order to achieve a better match, the study suggests more use of local sample texts in teaching materials. In turn, in order to test the acceptability of local norms, the study describes the results of testing the acceptability of a number of unique Indian English items by several groups of ‘educated’ Indian English users by means of a questionnaire.
BRETTON‐WOODS SYSTEMS, OLD AND NEW, AND THE ROTATION OF EXCHANGE‐RATE REGIMES*
Authors: HALL STEPHEN G. , HONDROYIANNIS GEORGE , SWAMY P. A. V. B. , TAVLAS GEORGE S.
Published: February 2011

A recent contribution to the literature argues that the present international monetary system operates like the Bretton‐Woods system. Asia is the new periphery of the system and pursues an export‐led development strategy based on undervalued exchange rates and accumulated foreign reserves. The USA remains the centre country, pursuing a monetary‐policy strategy that does not take external factors into account in conducting monetary policy. We test this hypothesis and also present a new method for decomposition of a time series using a time‐varying business coefficient technique that allows us to test the relationship between the cycle and macroeconomic policies under both regimes.
Microessentialism: What is the Argument?
Authors: Needham Paul
Published: February 2011

According to microessentialism, it is necessary to resort to microstructure in order to adequately characterise chemical substances such as water. But the thesis has never been properly supported by argument. Kripke and Putnam, who originally proposed the thesis, suggest that a so‐called stereotypical characterisation is not possible, whereas one in terms of microstructure is. However, the sketchy outlines given of stereotypical descriptions hardly support the impossibility claim. On the other hand, what naturally stands in contrast to microscopic description is description in macroscopic terms, and macroscopic characterisations of water are certainly possible. This suffices to counter the claim that microdescriptions are necessary. Whether it counters the impossibility claim depends on whether all macroscopic descriptions are stereotypical (stereotypical descriptions presumably being macroscopic). In so far as systematic import of “stereotypical” can be determined, it would seem not. But some macroscopic characterisations have definite affinity with everyday knowledge, which presumably stands in conflict with the spirit of the impossibility claim. Since what is characterised are properties expressed by predicates like “is water”, the necessity of identity has no bearing here, and matters of interpretation pose problems for claims to the effect that science fixes the extension of “water” as ordinarily understood.