bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Learning Opportunities Within Social Innovation in Health (GLOWS): Modified Delphi Process to Identify and Pilot Core Competencies for Learning
Authors: Wallace Emily , Tao Yusha , Aribodor Ogechukwu B. , Zhu Zixuan , Borbon Angelica , Chakhame Bertha M , Jacob Eunice C. , Ahmed Fatema , Francis Joel Msafiri , Septiawan Komang G. , Mawuli Kovey , Mutisya Linet , Ekasari Marlita Putri , Azugo Nwadiuto Okwuniru , Fourie Tina , Alger Jackeline , Mier Abigail Ruth , Tang Weiming , Ruiz Adriana S , Aidoo-Frimpong Gloria , Nanono Jackline , Montealto Jesson James A , Ezezika Obidimma , Kaks Per , Shan Wenjie , Mier-Alpano Jana Deborah , Marley Gifty , Halpaap Beatrice , Chen Elizabeth , Tucker Joseph D.
Published: February 2025

Background Social innovation in health refers to the community-engaged process that connects health improvement and social change. The aim of this study was to develop a consensus statement on core learning competencies in social innovation in health and pilot them as part of a participatory training workshop. Methods and Findings A modified Delphi Process aggregating data from a scoping review, global open call, and participatory process was organized. Participants were recruited from low, middle, and high-income countries with a range of social innovation experiences. Statements focused on social innovation in health core competencies for learning. Consensus was determined using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness method. After expressing interest in the project, 68 individuals received the survey link. 46 participants completed the first survey, and 34 completed the second survey. All 28 statements reached consensus, and based on the results of this first survey, some statements were added, amended, and merged to reach 30 consensus statements in the second survey. Competencies were categorized into skills, mindsets, and knowledge. Some competencies reached higher levels of agreement than others. This included community engagement, which can leverage the collective knowledge and problem-solving abilities of a diverse group of individuals to tackle complex challenges; social entrepreneurship skills such as business model knowledge, securing funding, team building, and knowledge of intersectional issues and health inequities. Several learning competencies were then piloted as eight one-hour online workshops, which assessed the feasibility of developing them through online open-access social innovation training sessions. After completing the workshops, 137 participants completed a survey, and most participants reported a significant improvement across six competencies. Conclusion The results from this study will inform the development of a WHO/TDR conceptual framework for teachers and learners in social innovation in health.
Biological polyethylene deconstruction initiated by oxidation from DyP peroxidases
Authors: Klauer Ross R. , Hansen D. Alex , Schyns Zoé O.G. , Monteiro Lummy Oliveira , Moore-Ott Jenna A. , Williams Mekhi , Tarr Megan , Singh Jyoti , Mhadeshwar Ashwin , Korley LaShanda T.J. , Solomon Kevin V , Blenner Mark
Published: February 2025

Polyethylene (PE) is the most commonly used plastic on Earth due to its favorable material properties such as high ductility, mechanical strength, and bond homogeneity that make the material resistant to deconstruction. However, the lack of robust recycling infrastructure for PE end-of-life management is leading to an estimated 4 million tons of environmental accumulation annually, with implications for human and environmental health. Biological deconstruction and upcycling could potentially aid in PE waste management by allowing for high-yield conversion of waste plastics to high value products, although such processes are not yet possible. In this work, we mined the gut of low-density PE (LDPE) fed mealworms that can reduce LDPE molecular weight by >40% and discovered dye decolorizing peroxidases (DyPs) that oxidized LDPE, initiating biological deconstruction. A plastic-active DyP is characterized by a hydrophobic loop near its active site that helps mediate binding and tunes activity. LDPE oxidation is driven by surface exposed residues proximal to the active site enabling activity on polymeric substrates. Our work provides robust evidence for enzymatic LDPE deconstruction and identifies molecular targets for further development to realize scalable biological LDPE upcycling.
A mathematical model for bleb expansion clarifies the role of TalA and actin dynamics in regulating bleb size and frequency
Authors: De Silva S.H Dinuka Sewwandi , Movsumova Emily , Reznik Jessica , Santiago Zully , Brazill Derrick , Asante-Asamani Emmanuel
Published: February 2025

Eukaryotic cells, such as cancer and immune cells, migrate using either pressure-driven blebs or actin polymerization driven pseudopods, with cells preferring to bleb in confined environments where high protrusion forces are required for movement. Blebbing involves a separation of the cell membrane from the cortex, via the detachment of membrane-to-cortex linker proteins. The detached membrane then expands and stabilizes into a spherical cap as a new cortex is formed beneath the protruded membrane while the old one is completely degraded. The role of linker proteins has mostly been associated with directing blebs to the leading edge of the cell, where linker enrichment is low, suggesting that cells devoid of linker proteins will bleb profusely. However, recent experiments suggest that knocking out the linker protein, TalA, in Dictyostelium discoideum cells decreases the cells ability to bleb. Additionally, little is known about how actin dynamics during bleb stabilization affect bleb size. In this work, we analyze the size and frequency of blebs in wild type and talA null Dictyostelium discoideum cells chemotaxing under a light and heavy agarose block. Our analysis reveals that talA null cells produce fewer and smaller blebs in confined environments, suggesting that linker proteins help the cell maintain intracellular pressure during blebbing. A mathematical model of bleb expansion developed and validated with our experimental data supports this hypothesis and identifies the polymerization to depolymerization rate of actin in the reforming cortex as a key regulator of bleb size and retraction dynamics in a myosin II independent manner.
The pgp1 Mutant Locus of Arabidopsis Encodes a Phosphatidylglycerolphosphate Synthase with Impaired Activity
Authors: Xu Changcheng , Härtel Heiko , Wada Hajime , Hagio Miki , Yu Bin , Eakin Chris , Benning Christoph
Published: July 2002

Phosphatidylglycerol is a ubiquitous phospholipid that is also present in the photosynthetic membranes of plants. Multiple independent lines of evidence suggest that this lipid plays a critical role for the proper function of photosynthetic membranes and cold acclimation. In eukaryotes, different subcellular compartments are competent for the biosynthesis of phosphatidylglycerol. Details on the plant-specific pathways in different organelles are scarce. Here, we describe a phosphatidylglycerol biosynthesis-deficient mutant of Arabidopsis, pgp1. The overall content of phosphatidylglycerol is reduced by 30%. This mutant carries a point mutation in the CDP-alcohol phosphotransferase motif of the phosphatidylglycerolphosphate synthase (EC 2.7.8.5) isoform encoded by a gene on chromosome 2. The mutant shows an 80% reduction in plastidic phosphatidylglycerolphosphate synthase activity consistent with the plastidic location of this particular isoform. Mutant plants are pale green, and their photosynthesis is impaired. This mutant provides a promising new tool to elucidate the biosynthesis and function of plastidic phosphatidylglycerol in seed plants.
A comparison of microcrystal electron diffraction and X-ray powder diffraction for the structural analysis of metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Biehler Erik , Pagola Silvina , Stam Daniel , Merkelbach Johannes , Jandl Christian , Abdel-Fattah Tarek M.
Published: February 2025

This study successfully implemented microcrystal electron diffraction (microED) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) for the crystal structure determination of a new phase, TAF-CNU-1, Ni(C8H4O4)·3H2O, solved by microED from single microcrystals in the powder and refined at the kinematic and dynamic electron diffraction theory levels. This nickel metal–organic framework (MOF), together with its cobalt and manganese analogues with formula M(C8H4O4)·2H2O with M = MnII or CoII, were synthesized in aqueous media as one-pot preparations from the corresponding hydrated metal chlorides and sodium terephthalate, as a promising `green' synthetic route to moisture-stable MOFs. The crystal structures of the two latter materials have been previously determined ab initio from X-ray powder diffraction. The advantages and disadvantages of both structural characterization techniques are briefly summarized. Additional solid-state property characterization was carried out using thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.
SAStutorials.org – online tutorials on small-angle scattering data analysis
Authors: Larsen Andreas Haahr , Jacobsen Jeppe Breum , Graewert Melissa Ann , Grøndahl Lau Blom , Svaneborg Carsten , Kikhney Alexey G. , Tyler Arwen Irene Ingrid , Kihara Shinji , Lytje Kristian , Pedersen Jan Skov , Moslehi Neshat , Voets Ilja , Fehér Bence , Holm-Janas Viktor , Bruun Jesper , Pedersen Martin Cramer , Kirkensgaard Jacob Judas Kain
Published: February 2025

Small-angle X-ray and neutron scattering (SAXS and SANS) are versatile techniques for studying the structure of various materials and particles, enabling investigations of structures from a few to hundreds of nanometres. However, interpreting SAXS or SANS data can be challenging, hence the need for effective training. Here, we present the website SAStutorials.org, which offers tutorials on small-angle scattering (SAS) data analysis. The website serves as a learning platform that supports active learning both in the classroom and through self-study. The tutorials cover basic concepts, advanced modelling and theoretical aspects of SAS. Each tutorial follows a structure based on the principle of SOLO taxonomy, guiding learners from minimal or no knowledge in a given area to the ability to tackle real-world problems. SAStutorials.org has been developed as a community tool, providing tutorials that encompass a broad range of data analysis types, leveraging various programs and investigating different materials. Moreover, the website and all its data are open source, encouraging contributions from the community.
New bipyrazole derivatives as effective inhibitors for the corrosion of mild steel in 1M HCI medium
Authors: El Ouafi A. , Hammouti B. , Oudda H. , Kertit S. , Touzani R. , Ramdani A.
Published: July 2002

The inhibition of the corrosion of the mild steel in 1M HCl by new bipyrazolic compounds has been studied by weight loss, electrochemical polarisation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. Results obtained reveal that these compounds are very good inhibitors. The inhibition efficiency increases with the increase of inhibitor concentration and reached 94 at 10–3M for the bipyrazoles studied. Potentiodynamic polarisation studies clearly reveal that the presence of the bipyrazoles does not change the mechanism of the hydrogen evolution reaction and they act essentially as cathodic inhibitors. The effect of temperature on the corrosion behaviour of mild steel in 1M HCl without and with the bipyrazoles at 10–3M was studied in the temperature range from 298° to 343°K. EIS measurements show the increase of the transfer resistance with the inhibitor concentration.
Attitudes and Food Choice Behaviour
Authors: Thompson Keith E. , Haziris Nikolaos , Alekos Panagiotis J.
Published: July 2002

UK sales of olive oil increased by 15 per cent in real terms between
1986 and 1992. As part of a programme of research investigating the
diffusion of the Mediterranean diet in the UK, investigates the reasons
behind this rapid acceptance of olive oil in British kitchens through a
study of consumers′ attitudes and behaviour regarding its culinary use.
The study was designed to establish the salient attitudinal and
normative beliefs which consumers associate with olive oil in order to
assess the value of those beliefs as predictors of behaviour in respect
of olive oil usage. Perceived control was found not to be relevant at an
early stage in the study, therefore, the theory of reasoned action (as
opposed to planned behaviour) was used as the methodological base. Data
were collected by means of a questionnaire completed by 151 subjects.
Attitudinal beliefs, especially those concerning flavour enhancement,
were found to be important predictors of olive oil usage, casting doubt
on the assumption that increased UK olive oil consumption results mainly
from its perceived health benefits. As with many food choice studies
normative beliefs were found not to be useful indicators of behaviour.
Dimensions of library anxiety and social interdependence: implications for library services
Authors: Jiao Qun G. , Onwuegbuzie Anthony J.
Published: July 2002

The present study examined the relationship between library anxiety and social interdependence. Participants were 115 graduate students from various disciplines who were administered the Library Anxiety Scale (LAS) and the Social Interdependence Scale (SIS). The LAS assesses levels of library anxiety. The SIS measures individuals’ cooperative, competitive, and individualistic perceptions. The higher the score on each of the three SIS subscales, the more cooperative, the more competitive, or the more individualistic the respondents consider themselves to be. Scores on these scales are relatively independent so that a student could conceivably receive a high score on all three scales. A canonical correlation analysis (Rc = 0.41) revealed that cooperative attitudes were related significantly to barriers with staff, comfort with the library, and knowledge of the library. Individualistic attitudes, affective barriers, and mechanical barriers served as suppressor variables. Implications are discussed.
Determinants of organizational performance
Authors: McGivern Michael H. , Tvorik Stephen J.
Published: July 2002

A holistic, integrative and synergistic performance model is defined by inter‐firm variables represented as economic rates of return for both economic and organizational factors. These variables are used to examine performance variance and their economic contribution to firm profitability. An extensive literature review has been conducted to discover the commonality of underlying constructs and themes within the research stream on organizational performance. An analysis of the data suggests that there exists a set of common variables to explain organizational performance variance. Builds on the results of an earlier study that indicates organizational factors explain almost twice as much variance in profit rates as do economic factors. Proposes a systemic framework on which to partition the economic contribution of these interdependent determinant factors of organizational performance.
Developments in in‐flight catering
Authors: O’Hara Loretta , Strugnell Christopher
Published: July 2002

Notes the increasing expectations of passengers with regard to in‐flight meals, tracing the development of in‐flight meals from the 1920s up to the present day. Considers innovations such as Lufthansa’s introduction of a gate buffet service for passengers, and lists the factors the airlines need to bear in mind such as: passenger specification, e.g. ethnic origin, effects of delay on loading meals on to the aircraft and balance of the menu in terms of dietary requirements, etc.
Stress management interventions: what do managers actually do?
Authors: Dewe Philip , O’Driscoll Michael
Published: July 2002

Presents a report of research which surveyed managers’ views on stress, their beliefs about stress interventions and who should be responsible for addressing job‐related stress problems. Stress management interventions have embedded in them a range of practices that offer opportunities for individual development and employee wellbeing. Equally, though, there is a strongly‐held belief that many interventions fall short, because they offer only a partial solution or fail to recognize the wider contextual‐structural issues within which organisational behaviour takes place. One reason for this may be that little attempt has been made to find out what managers understand by stress and the extent to which they think that their organisation has a responsibility to address problems of stress. Both qualitative and quantitative techniques were used to explore these issues, using a sample of 540 New Zealand managers. The results draw attention to a number of issues including: do managers’ views of stress reflect acknowledged definitions? Who should assume responsibility for managing stress? What do managers mean when they indicate that an intervention is effective? Are stress interventions any different from standard human resource practices and is there a role for theory in stress interventions?
Community‐based economic development and the library ‐ a concept paper
Authors: Skrzeszewski Stan , Cubberley Maureen
Published: July 2002

Discusses the role of the library in economic development, particularly at the local level, and offers a series of strategies that can be adopted by libraries to assist community‐based development.
Knowledge‐based systems leverage human resource management
expertise
Authors: Martinsons Maris G.
Published: July 2002

The commercial emergence of knowledge‐based information technology
represents a tremendous opportunity to enhance the practice of human
resource management. Unfortunately, much of the potential of
knowledge‐based systems (KBS) to leverage expertise and promote
organizational learning remains unrealized because of poor management
and piecemeal adoption of the technology. With the impending shortage of
skilled professionals in many economies, it is imperative to consider
this technology in the human resource planning process. Critically
examines the applicability of KBS to HRM activities. Defines basic
concepts while benefits, costs and limitations are considered. Profiles
current applications which help to manage and leverage human resources.
Human resource development and managing diversity in South Africa
Authors: Horwitz Frank M. , Bowmaker‐Falconer Angus , Searll Peter
Published: July 2002

Discusses structural and labour market issues associated with the processes of employment equity and diversity management in South African organizations. Argues that effective individual and organizational change are most likely to occur when human resource development and diversity management approaches are adopted simultaneously. Contends that appropriate information is a critical component for planning, monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of HRD and diversity management.
Change processes towards lean production
Authors: Åhlström Pär , Karlsson Christer
Published: July 2002

Explores the role of the management accounting system in the process of adopting a complex manufacturing strategy, lean production. Finds, in a longitudinal field study, using the clinical methodology, that in order to change the management accounting system to support the adoption of lean production, traditional performance measures have to reach a certain threshold. An important way to create impetus for this change is to raise the level of the unit of analysis in the management accounting system, both horizontally and vertically. Finally, the management accounting system affects the process in three concurrent ways: technically, through its design; formally, through its role in the organization; and cognitively, through the way in which actors think about and use the management accounting system. Proposes that in order for the system to be congruent with lean production principles, all three of these perspectives need to be changed.
A linear programming model for integrated steel production and distribution planning
Authors: Chen Mingyuan , Wang Weimin
Published: July 2002

Develops a linear programming model for integrated production planning based on the practice of a major Canadian steel making company. Considers the entire planning activity in the company as an integrated process involving a number of closely related sub‐functions, such as raw material purchasing, semi‐finished product purchasing and production, and capacity allocation, as well as finished product production and distribution. The mathematical programming model takes into account production costs, product throughput rates, customer demands, sales prices and facility capacities for optimal production planning. Presents a numerical example based on realistic system structure and practical planning data to illustrate the model. Computation results and analysis show that the integrated methodology is a feasible and practical approach for steel production planning.
Benchmarking and operational performance: some empirical results
Authors: Voss Christopher A. , Åhlström Pär , Blackmon Kate
Published: July 2002

Investigates the link between benchmarking and operational performance using a sample of over 600 European manufacturing sites. Benchmarking is linked to the identification and adoption of improved operational practices, an increased understanding of competitive positioning, and the larger context of the “learning organization”. Shows that benchmarking may indeed contribute to improved operational performance, first through improving the firm’s understanding of its competitive position and its strengths and weaknesses, and second through providing a systematic process for effecting change. Learning organizations were more likely to benchmark than other firms.
A service positioning matrix
Authors: Collier David A. , Meyer Susan M.
Published: July 2002

The service positioning matrix shows how the desired nature of the customer’s service encounter activity sequence translates into a recommended service system design. The matrix helps managers think about marketing and operations linkages, roles of the customer and service‐provider in creating and delivering services, facility design and process choice, and the different types of management challenges at each position in the matrix. Concepts such as the service encounter activity sequence and the degree of repeatability in the activity sequence are defined and used in the matrix. Examples are given to illustrate the positioning of service entities within the matrix. An empirical evaluation provides statistical support for the logic of the service positioning matrix. The criteria used in the matrix are meaningful to survey participants. Future research directions and issues are discussed.
The influence of culture on managerial behaviour
Authors: Berrell Mike , Wright Phil , Thi Van Hoa Tran
Published: July 2002

Using an open interview technique, information about the challenges facing Australian and Vietnamese managers working in joint ventures was gathered from ten Australian and 26 Vietnamese respondents. Our analysis suggests that salient differences exist along several dimensions: collectivism/individualism, the nature of relationships and attitude to work; use of public and private space and attitude towards causality. A model of management development is presented to deal with the challenge of inter‐cultural management development.
Managing dirty data in organizations using ERP: lessons from a case study
Authors: Vosburg Jodi , Kumar Anil
Published: July 2002

The integrity of the data used to operate and make decisions about a business affects the relative efficiency of operations and quality of decisions made. Protecting that integrity can be difficult and becomes more difficult as the size and complexity of the business and its systems increase. Recovering data integrity may be impossible once it is compromised. Stewards of transactional and planning systems must therefore employ a combination of procedures including systematic safeguards and user‐training programs to counteract and prevent dirty data in those systems. Users of transactional and planning systems must understand the origins and effects of dirty data and the importance of and means of guarding against it. This requires a shared understanding within the context of the business of the meaning, uses, and value of data across functional entities. In this paper, we discuss issues related to the origin of dirty data, associated problems and costs of using dirty data in an organization, the process of dealing with dirty data in a migration to a new system: enterprise resource planning (ERP), and the benefits of an ERP in managing dirty data. These issues are explored in the paper using a case study.
ARIEL document delivery: a cost‐effective alternative to fax
Authors: Landes Sonja
Published: July 2002

Describes ARIEL, a high‐speed, high‐quality, cost‐effective document delivery system that runs on the Internet. Journal articles can be sent from one place to another by scanning the article directly from the journal. Text and graphics are digested into the computer, transmitted over the Internet, and printed on a laser printer at the receiving end. Developed in 1990 by the Research Libraries Group of the Research Libraries Information Network, ARIEL is becoming the document delivery system of choice for a rapidly growing number of users in the USA and abroad. The key advantages which ARIEL has over the fax are: no long‐distance phone charges; high image resolution; original source can be scanned; can send and receive documents at the same time; does not require dedicated equipment; and documents can be stored and forwarded at a later time. ARIEL Version 2.0, released in February 1997, incorporates Multi‐purpose Internet Mail Extensions (MIME) technology which enables documents to be transmitted to the computer screen via e‐mail from one individual to another. Describes the hardware and software requirements, the cost of getting started, and one library’s experience, as part of a pilot project, with the ARIEL document delivery system.
Reactions to different types of ads in Belgium and Poland
Authors: De Pelsmacker Patrick , Geuens M.
Published: July 2002

The communication effect of four types of alcohol advertisement, i.e. humorous, warm, erotic and non‐emotional, are studied in Belgian and Polish samples of young consumers. Ad recognition, brand attribution, ad evoked feelings, cognitive and affective reactions, attitude towards the ad, the brand and purchase intention, are measured and compared between the Belgian and the Polish group. A lot of similarities between Polish and Belgian subjects emerge. Emotional appeals generate a more positive ad and brand attitude, and humour is the most effective emotional appeal. Basic ad evoked feelings are very similar in both groups. On the other hand, some differences are observed. Erotic ads do a better job in Poland than in Belgium. An evoked irritation leads to negative communication effects only in Belgium, but not in Poland. Polish consumers seem to rely more on cognitive responses to form an attitude towards the brand, while affective responses are more important for Belgium consumers.
Issues in quality engineering research
Authors: Hassan Adnan , Shariff Nabi Baksh Mohd , Shaharoun Awaluddin M.
Published: July 2002

The field of quality has undergone significant changes as reflected by changes in its definition, paradigms, approaches, techniques, and scope of application. This paper reviews emerging trends and issues focusing on quality engineering. Changes in customer expectation have driven the changes in the technology of design and manufacturing, which is becoming more important in satisfying individual customer expectations. This also calls for special attention to the engineering aspects of quality. Brief reviews on recent advances in the prominent quality tools such as statistical process control, quality function deployment, and design of experiment are reported. General trends in quality engineering research show the tools are being enhanced, integrated, computerized and broaden their application bases, where possible opportunities for further investigation are indicated. Among others these include contributions in multiple‐response optimization, intelligent quality systems, multivariate SPC, and practical and simple guidelines for actual implementation of various tools.
Policy Formulation by Use of QFD Techniques: A Case Study
Authors: Philips M. , Sander P. , Govers C.
Published: July 2002

The quality function deployment (QFD) theory focuses on customer needs
and expectations and methodically deploys them through product design,
parts selection, process planning and production planning, leading to
shorter design times and more customer‐oriented products. It is
demonstrated that the QFD techniques can also improve the procedures
that are used to formulate annual policy. Therefore a conceptual
procedure is presented to formulate annual policy based on QFD
techniques, and a case study is presented in which it is demonstrated
that the QFD theory can function as an indicator of problems that have
to be faced if one wants to improve towards more customer orientation
and better communication, cross functional as well as between lower and
higher management in the policy formulation process.
Time Budget Pressure and Filtering of Time Practices in Internal
Auditing
Authors: Azad Ali N.
Published: July 2002

Unlike external auditing, to date, no study has been done to determine
the internal auditors′ dysfunctional behaviour under time budget
pressure. Consequently, determines the attitude of internal auditors
towards time budgets, and the likely or perceived existence of time
filtering practices in internal auditing. Presents survey results which
indicate that a majority of respondents perceived time budgets as an
interference with the proper conduct of the audit and conceded to a
natural conflict between the essence of time budgets and the gathering
of sufficient and competent evidence. The survey results further
indicated the filtering of time to be a relatively widespread phenomenon
in all areas of internal auditing.
Consumer preferences for foreign and domestic products
Authors: Knight Gary A.
Published: July 2002

Compares consumer preferences for goods made abroad and in the home country by both foreign and home‐country firms. These preferences and the intervening role of price‐quality attributes are assessed in an empirical study using conjoint analysis and a MANOVA procedure. Results suggest that country of manufacture and product quality strongly influence consumer decision making in globally available product categories. Specifically, compared to imported goods, consumers appear to prefer domestically manufactured goods and are often willing to pay a higher price for them. It is usually only when imported goods are of significantly superior quality that consumers will pay more to obtain them. Finally, in their purchase decisions, consumers appear not to put much weight on a product’s perceived importance to the home country’s manufacturing base.
Negative Political Feedback or the Auditor”s Tar Baby?
Comments on “An Examination of the Problem of Modelling Political
Responses in Public Sector Effectiveness Auditing”
Authors: Sharp Colin A.
Published: July 2002

A response to Smith′s (1992) attempt (in AAAJ, Vol. 5 No.
1, 1992) to address the difficulties in performance auditing and
production function modelling in public sector management (arguing that
regression analysis is an inadequate approach for value‐for‐money
auditors, and is fundamentally flawed in failing to account for the
anticipatory adjustments to the system made by politically motivated
administrators). Agrees with Smith that quantitative effectiveness audit
has limited value in the wider context of public sector accountability.
Raises a number of issues concerning Smith′s data and analysis and his
bases for dismissing this approach to effectiveness audit.
The role of expectations in the perception of health care quality: developing a conceptual model
Authors: Conway Tony , Willcocks Stephen
Published: July 2002

Proposes a conceptual model of quality which incorporates an expectation framework. The model was prompted by a related empirical study examining effectiveness in a health care setting which highlighted the importance of quality measures in a contracting environment. The model attempts to understand the relationships between perceived service quality and patient expectations, experience and satisfaction. Makes recommendations which are considered to be relevant to NHS policy makers.
Organizational diagnostics: integrating qualitative and quantitative methodology
Authors: Alexander Di Pofi Jackie
Published: July 2002

In the present study, the challenge to apply theory in the practice of organizational change management is addressed in the context of a field setting. The research explains the process of conducting an organizational diagnosis reflecting current practices of using theory‐based assessment models; demonstrates the benefits of collecting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data in organizational diagnosis; and discusses the results of the organizational diagnostic process that highlight organizational problems encountered during change. Directions for future research are discussed. Implications to readiness and resistance to change are offered.
Starting Total Quality Management from ISO 9000
Authors: Bradley Michael
Published: July 2002

Some 20,000 companies have been registered as working to the
International Quality Management Standard ISO 9000, but many have not
achieved the improvements in their operations that can be obtained from
managing on total quality management principles. ISO 9000 can be an
excellent start to TQM, if it is interpreted in a way that encourages
the company to start on the process of continual improvement by teamwork
of all people working in the company. Management needs to see its
company as a system, whose aim is to delight its customers. The system
is made up of many interlocking processes, which contribute to its
performance. The performance of the system needs to be optimized to
achieve management’s aim. Shows how the requirements of ISO 9000 can be
used to start on the journey towards TQM.
Customer loyalty in extended service settings
Authors: de Ruyter Ko , Bloemer Josée
Published: July 2002

In research on customer loyalty in services, satisfaction has often been mentioned as an important determinant. However, empirical evidence concerning the relationship between loyalty and satisfaction has remained equivocal. This may be even more so for services that are delivered over an extended period of time in which consumers actively take part. We propose that for the extended service experience consumers are motivated by the realisation of values and that attainment of these values affects patronage decisions. Moreover, as the service delivery process is extensive we argue that consumer mood during the service delivery is another important factor that may have an impact on loyalty deliberations. Therefore, in this paper we examine the simultaneous effect of satisfaction, value attainment and positive mood in an extended service setting. The results reveal that the relationship between satisfaction and loyalty with respect to extended services is moderated by value attainment and positive mood. More specifically, the satisfaction‐loyalty association is strongest when consumers perceive that the service does not help them in the attainment of instrumental values and when low positive moods are experienced. In contrast, the relationship between satisfaction and loyalty is weakest when the service helps consumers in attaining their values and when they experience a positive mood. This signifies that value attainment and positive mood do indeed play an additional role in explaining customer loyalty. An important implication is that value attainment and positive mood may function as a buffer for diminishing loyalty as a result of lower levels of service satisfaction.
Hong Kong people’s “subjective feelings” about pollution
Authors: Ho Roger P.K.
Published: July 2002

Looks at Hong Kong people’s perceived impact of environmental pollution for the purpose of aiding policy making. This is an alternative to recognizing only the perceptions of the scientists and engineers. Describes the study carried out and analyses the resulting data, in particular with reference to the Air Pollution index.
Tracking and tracing: a structure for development and contemporary practices
Authors: van Dorp Kees‐Jan
Published: July 2002

Although government and business interest in tracking and tracing has grown enormously over the last decade, a clear and coherent overview of the topic is still lacking and is not found in (logistics) literature. This article presents a structure for development and contemporary practices of tracking and tracing. The development structure is conceptualised by three supply‐chain layers: item coding (the physical layer), information architecture (the information layer); and planning and control (the control layer). On behalf of tracking and tracing, the layers represent different levels of supply‐chain integration. The conceptualisation is derived from similar ideas found in literature on supply‐chain management. From a scientific point of view, the structure provides a coherent and systematic organisation of tracking and tracing concepts. From the viewpoint of business administration, the structure facilitates the determination of the scope of tracking and tracing application(s), which is of management value.
Retailing and shopping on the Internet
Authors: Rowley Jennifer
Published: July 2002

Examines the challenges that shopping and other commercial transactions on the Internet pose for the retail industry. An increasing number of shopping malls, selling an ever‐widening selection of products, are becoming available on the Internet. There are, however, still a number of challenges facing the Internet retailer and shopper. These include: locating the shops, comparison shopping, security, especially in relation to financial transactions, the customer base and profile, the nature of the shopping experience, and legal and marketplace controls or lack of them. It is possible to make money on the Internet without selling, but by using the Internet to support other business processes. Currently, many retailers are exploring the potential of the Internet, but the market is still in its infancy. Retailers do, however, report increasing sales and a positive contribution to marketing from visibility on the Internet.
Information Technology and the Family
Authors: Aungles Ann , Cook David
Published: July 2002

The development of information technologies has led to the restructuring
of the boundaries within and between organizations in a number of areas
of social life. Examines the impact of a specific form of information
technology being introduced in the field of punishment and control
– the electronic monitoring of sentenced offenders. Electronic
surveillance and home imprisonment are features of the current
restructuring of the boundaries between prison, work and family life. It
is both the physical and the cultural boundaries between “home” and
“prison” that are being readjusted. Over the past 200 years these two
spheres of social life have been constructed around incompatible sets of
values. However the complex contradictions involved in making the
boundaries between these two spheres more permeable have not been fully
explored in current penal discourses.
Distribution structures for food home shopping
Authors: de Koster René (Marinus) B.M.
Published: July 2002

In this paper, the relation between the constructs operational complexity, Web‐based orientation of the company and the company’s distribution structure used for the fulfilment of Internet customer orders is investigated in the food home shopping branch. A model is proposed with relations between these constructs, which is researched through a survey among food e‐tailers. A positive association between operational complexity and the distribution structure used could be established, meaning that more complex operations (with a full‐line assortment and a large number of orders) tend to have special (Internet orders only) distribution centres for the fulfilment of Internet customer orders. Companies with a store infrastructure tend to keep using this existing infrastructure (unless the number of orders becomes large) and new Internet‐only companies tend to use special Internet‐orders only warehouses, unless the number of orders is small, in which case co‐operation with existing stores is preferred.
Quality in logistics: a comparison of practices between Australian and North American/European firms
Authors: Sohal Amrik S. , Millen Robert , Maggard Michael , Moss Simon
Published: July 2002

Presents a comparison of the findings of three studies conducted in North America/Europe and Australia which investigated the adoption of quality management practices in the logistics function. Focuses on the extent to which quality practices are adopted, how quality in logistics is defined and administered, impediments to implementation, measurement of quality improvements, measuring customer expectations, measuring process improvements and the extent of satisfaction with the quality program.
Evaluating health‐promoting schools: steps to success
Authors: Parsons Carl , Stears David
Published: July 2002

Evaluating the health‐promoting school (HPS) and its effectiveness is crucial to its future development and sustainability. This paper attempts to outline the basis of approaches to evaluation which are sound, relevant, respond to the full array of elements which constitute the HPS, and satisfy the criterion of utility. It examines a range of research methods in order to illustrate pathways towards the evidence base for health promotion, considers the kinds of studies which are both feasible and useful for policy makers and professionals, and proposes approaches deemed most usefully provocative and cost‐effective.
The Cultural Implications of Empowerment
Authors: Cook Sarah
Published: July 2002

As empowerment becomes an increasingly popular method of enhancing
organization effectiveness, looks at the implications on organizational
culture of allowing employees the responsibility for decisions affecting
their work environment.
Brand association and memory decay effects of sponsorship:
Authors: Quester Pascale , Farrelly Francis
Published: July 2002

Corporate managers often invest in sponsorship as a means of associating a firm, its name or its brands, with a particular sport or event. The strength of that association should therefore be a measure of sponsorship success. In this study, four consecutive years of data collected at the Australian Formula One Grand Prix were used to examine the issue, based on brand recall/association and memory decay as a surrogate indicator of the strength of association. From the literature, several factors were hypothesised to influence positively the strength of brand association and three out of four were confirmed as determinants of this performance indicator. The implications of these findings are considered in the light of sponsorship management practices.
Projecting the right image: using projective techniques to measure brand image
Authors: Hussey Michael , Duncombe Nicola
Published: July 2002

Research has shown that consumers very often do not use explicit, concrete, rational factors to evaluate products, and thus their motivation to purchase is not always easy to articulate. Traditionally, marketers have used projective techniques in qualitative research groups to overcome this problem. This method is not infallible as each moderator brings his or her own style to discussions and subjective judgement to the interpretation of results, and it is practically impossible to replicate identically over time. The work presented in this paper describes the development of a set of implicit characteristics for two animation sets to which respondents will respond similarly and with consistency, through which we can identify the brand image held and consequently the motivations behind brand choice.
An evaluation of quality culture problems in UK companies
Authors: Adebanjo Dotun , Kehoe Dennis
Published: July 2002

Although cultural change is recognised as important to total quality improvement, many manufacturing companies fail to achieve the level of change desired. One primary reason for this is the inability to fully understand where their problems lie and the nature of these problems. Research was undertaken into seven elements of quality culture ‐ senior management leadership, employee involvement and empowerment, supplier partnership, customer focus, teamwork, effect of chief executive and open corporate culture. Questionnaires and structured interviews in 166 UK manufacturing companies provided the required information on cultural change problems. An evaluation of cultural problems and the targeting of areas for change was better understood from the survey results.
Effects of a green purchasing strategy: the case of Belfast City Council
Authors: Gordon Murray J.
Published: July 2002

Green purchasing has seen an increase of attention from researchers but as yet few case studies are available. The responsibility being placed on local councils to consider not only the economic but also social and environmental impacts sets a new agenda. Both these changes suggest a new role for local government purchasing, one which embraces “greening”. This paper outlines the green purchasing strategy adopted by Belfast City Council set against a local government background. The case demonstrates an integrated approach to achieving objectives relating to local economic development, environment and purchasing.
Social entrepreneurial leadership
Authors: Prabhu Ganesh N.
Published: July 2002

Social entrepreneurial leaders are persons who create and manage innovative entrepreneurial organizations or ventures whose primary mission is the social change and development of their client group. The social enterprise’s activities and its client group’s activities can primarily be either economic or non‐economic, but the mission is social change and development. This paper examines research prospects in social entrepreneurial leadership and its relevance to mainstream entrepreneurship research and proposes useful cross‐ fertilization opportunities.
Knowledge management convergence – expanding learning frontiers
Authors: Lytras Miltiadis D. , Pouloudi Athanasia , Poulymenakou Angeliki
Published: July 2002

KM seems to be another buzzword. More and more we hear about the new imperatum of knowledge. Like researchers in a new field, our daily life is a continuous knowledge management process. Moreover, the origins of our focus diversify biased to the KM perspectives that we have conceptualized. Our paper intends to reveal the continuous process of KM to re‐usable learning objects. The case of organizational memory is treated as a cumulative system of value adding components. The deployment of information and communication technologies in our approach justifies the intelligence of our analysis. Web semantics, metadata specification and extensive XML specifications provide only the enclosure of an extensive analysis of concepts. Two concepts are presented: multidimensional dynamic e‐learning and the value adding knowledge management framework.