bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Lean and Six Sigma in acute care: a systematic review of reviews
Authors: Deblois Simon , Lepanto Luigi 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to present a systematic review of literature reviews, summarizing how Lean and Six Sigma management techniques have been implemented in acute care settings to date, and assessing their impact. To aid decision makers who wish to use these techniques by identifying the sectors of activity most often targeted, the main results of the interventions, as well as barriers and facilitators involved. To identify areas of future research.

Design/methodology/approach
– A literature search was conducted, using eight databases. The methodological quality of the selected reviews was appraised with AMSTAR. A narrative synthesis was performed according to the guidelines proposed by Popay et al. (2006). Data were reported according to PRISMA.

Findings
– The literature search identified 149 publications published from 1999 to January 2015. Seven literature reviews were included into the systematic review, upon appraisal. The overall quality of the evidence was poor to fair. The clinical settings most described were specialized health care services, including operating suites, intensive care units and emergency departments. The outcomes most often appraised related to processes and quality. The evidence suggests that Lean and Six Sigma are better adapted to settings where processes involve a linear sequence of events.

Research limitations/implications
– There is a need for more studies of high methodological quality to better understand the effects of these approaches as well as the factors of success and barriers to their implementation. Field studies comparing the effects of Lean and Six Sigma to those of other process redesign or quality improvement efforts would bring a significant contribution to the body of knowledge.

Practical implications
– Lean and Six Sigma can be considered valuable process optimization approaches in acute health care settings. The success of their implementation requires significant participation of clinical personnel from the frontline as well as clinical leaders and managers. More research is needed to better understand the factors of success and the barriers to their implementation, as well as their long-term impact.

Originality/value
– This is the first broad systematic review of reviews, synthesizing data pertaining to implementation issues and results in acute care settings, to be published. It will benefit health care managers assessing the potential of these approaches and the potential drawbacks associated with their implementation. Moreover, it identifies directions for future research.
Improving healthcare practice behaviors
Authors: Van Fleet David D. , Peterson Tim O 
Published: March 2016

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to present the results of exploratory research designed to develop an awareness of healthcare behaviors, with a view toward improving the customer satisfaction with healthcare services. It examines the relationship between healthcare providers and their consumers/patients/clients.Design/methodology/approach– The study uses a critical incident methodology, with both effective and ineffective behavioral specimens examined across different provider groups.Findings– The effects of these different behaviors on what Berry (1999) identified as the common core values of service organizations are examined, as those values are required to build a lasting service relationship. Also examined are categories of healthcare practice based on the National Quality Strategy priorities.Research limitations/implications– The most obvious is the retrospective nature of the method used. How accurate are patient or consumer memories? Are they capable of making valid judgments of healthcare experiences (Berry and Bendapudi, 2003)? While an obvious limitation, such recollections are clearly important as they may be paramount in following the healthcare practitioners’ instructions, loyalty for repeat business, making recommendations to others and the like. Further, studies have shown retrospective reports to be accurate and useful (Milleret al., 1997).Practical implications– With this information, healthcare educators should be in a better position to improve the training offered in their programs and practitioners to better serve their customers.Social implications– The findings would indicate that the human values of excellence, innovation, joy, respect and integrity play a significant role in building a strong service relationship between consumer and healthcare provider.Originality/value– Berry (1999) has argued that the overriding importance in building a lasting service business is human values. This exploratory study has shown how critical incident analysis can be used to determine both effective and ineffective practices of different medical providers. It also provides guidelines as to what are effective and ineffective behaviors in healthcare.
Combined data mining techniques based patient data outlier detection for healthcare safety
Authors: Gebremeskel Gebeyehu Belay , Yi Chai , He Zhongshi , Haile Dawit 
Published: March 2016

Purpose– Among the growing number of data mining (DM) techniques, outlier detection has gained importance in many applications and also attracted much attention in recent times. In the past, outlier detection researched papers appeared in a safety care that can view as searching for the needles in the haystack. However, outliers are not always erroneous. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of outliers in healthcare services in general and patient safety care, in particular.Design/methodology/approach– It is a combined DM (clustering and the nearest neighbor) technique for outliers’ detection, which provides a clear understanding and meaningful insights to visualize the data behaviors for healthcare safety. The outcomes or the knowledge implicit is vitally essential to a proper clinical decision-making process. The method is important to the semantic, and the novel tactic of patients’ events and situations prove that play a significant role in the process of patient care safety and medications.Findings– The outcomes of the paper is discussing a novel and integrated methodology, which can be inferring for different biological data analysis. It is discussed as integrated DM techniques to optimize its performance in the field of health and medical science. It is an integrated method of outliers detection that can be extending for searching valuable information and knowledge implicit based on selected patient factors. Based on these facts, outliers are detected as clusters and point events, and novel ideas proposed to empower clinical services in consideration of customers’ satisfactions. It is also essential to be a baseline for further healthcare strategic development and research works.Research limitations/implications– This paper mainly focussed on outliers detections. Outlier isolation that are essential to investigate the reason how it happened and communications how to mitigate it did not touch. Therefore, the research can be extended more about the hierarchy of patient problems.Originality/value– DM is a dynamic and successful gateway for discovering useful knowledge for enhancing healthcare performances and patient safety. Clinical data based outlier detection is a basic task to achieve healthcare strategy. Therefore, in this paper, the authors focussed on combined DM techniques for a deep analysis of clinical data, which provide an optimal level of clinical decision-making processes. Proper clinical decisions can obtain in terms of attributes selections that important to know the influential factors or parameters of healthcare services. Therefore, using integrated clustering and nearest neighbors techniques give more acceptable searched such complex data outliers, which could be fundamental to further analysis of healthcare and patient safety situational analysis.
Detection of natural structures and classification of HCI-HPR data using robust forward search algorithm
Authors: Isiaka Fatima , Mwitondi Kassim S , Ibrahim Adamu M 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to proposes a forward search algorithm for detecting and identifying natural structures arising in human-computer interaction (HCI) and human physiological response (HPR) data.

Design/methodology/approach
– The paper portrays aspects that are essential to modelling and precision in detection. The methods involves developed algorithm for detecting outliers in data to recognise natural patterns in incessant data such as HCI-HPR data. The detected categorical data are simultaneously labelled based on the data reliance on parametric rules to predictive models used in classification algorithms. Data were also simulated based on multivariate normal distribution method and used to compare and validate the original data.

Findings
– Results shows that the forward search method provides robust features that are capable of repelling over-fitting in physiological and eye movement data.

Research limitations/implications
– One of the limitations of the robust forward search algorithm is that when the number of digits for residuals value is more than the expected size for stack flow, it normally yields an error caution; to counter this, the data sets are normally standardized by taking the logarithmic function of the model before running the algorithm.

Practical implications
– The authors conducted some of the experiments at individual residence which may affect environmental constraints.

Originality/value
– The novel approach to this method is the detection of outliers for data sets based on the Mahalanobis distances on HCI and HPR. And can also involve a large size of data with p possible parameters. The improvement made to the algorithm is application of more graphical display and rendering of the residual plot.
An analysis of the application of process improvement techniques in business process outsourcing
Authors: McIvor Ronan 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to enhance the understanding of the application of process improvement techniques (PITs) in the business process outsourcing (BPO) process. The paper focuses on how PITs impact the BPO process, and identifies a number of key enablers of applying PITs in the BPO process.

Design/methodology/approach
– The paper employs a case study approach. In-depth case study analysis of a number of organisations that have employed a number of PITs in BPO is carried out.

Findings
– The findings support current literature that highlights the importance of formal contracting, relational contracting, and vendor capabilities for applying PITs in BPO. However, the findings also highlight the importance of additional factors, not widely considered in the current literature. The client must possess internal capabilities in PITs and change management to ensure process improvement occurs. Moreover, the findings here have shown that the client must invest in and develop the resources that enhance its capability to employ PITs in BPO.

Originality/value
– The findings highlight the importance and relevance of process improvement to BPO, and identify a number of important issues for further research in order to bridge the gap between these two complementary areas.
Cost of quality consideration following product launch in a present worth assessment
Authors: Guinot Jeff , Evans Dustin , Badar M. Affan 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of costs of quality on the present worth (PW) of a new product launch at a North American automobile manufacturer.

Design/methodology/approach
– The paper is based on the examination of various cash flows associated with a new product launch within an automobile manufacturer. Standard cash flows and a PW analysis were examined and compared to non-standard cash flows which take into consideration post-launch cost of quality (CoQ). A sensitivity analysis was used to determine if any CoQ factors affected the integrity of the product launch.

Findings
– The paper concludes that there is an impact on the PW of a program when CoQ is considered as a cash flow element. CoQ should be considered in a product launch PW analysis preceding any commitment to invest.

Research limitations/implications
– This study suggests that, given data on the costs that will accrue assuming standard quality concerns following product launch, and the occurrence of special cause issues, the business case can establish a better estimate of the costs a program will face under varying levels of post-launch quality. An understanding of the potential cost consequences of quality issues can shape the understanding of the risks in a planned project.

Practical implications
– The paper shows that CoQ can have a significant impact on a PW analysis. CoQ concerns should be considered during pre-launch planning of a new product.

Originality/value
– The paper satisfies the need to study when a manufacturer considers investment in the launch of a new product with CoQ concerns.
Reliability analysis and life cycle cost optimization: a case study from Indian industry
Authors: Waghmode Laxman Yadu , Patil Rajkumar Bhimgonda 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– Reliability analysis is required to identify the components or subsystems with low reliability for a given designed performance. Life cycle cost analysis helps understand the cost implications over the entire life span of a product. The purpose of this paper is to present a case study describing reliability analysis and life cycle cost optimization of a band saw cutting machine manufactured and used in India.

Design/methodology/approach
– The data required for reliability analysis is collected from the manufacturer and users of band saw cutting machine. The parameters of failure distribution have been estimated by using ReliaSoft’s Weibull++6 software. The life cycle cost is divided into various cost elements such as acquisition cost, operation cost, failure cost, support cost and net salvage value.

Findings
– The results of the analysis show that the components such as band wheel bearing, guide roller bearing, limit switch, carbide pad, hydraulic cylinder oil seal, control panel dial, control panel and solenoid valve are critical from reliability and life cycle cost analysis perspective.

Originality/value
– With certain design changes it is found that the reliability of the system is increased by 15.85 percent while the life cycle cost is reduced by 22.09 percent. The study also shows that the reliability analysis is useful for deciding maintenance intervals.
Mothers’ non-standard working and childcare-related challenges
Authors: Moilanen Sanna , May Vanessa , Räikkönen Eija , Sevón Eija , Laakso Marja-Leena 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to particularly focus on lone-mother families, comparing the childcare-related challenges experienced by working lone mothers and coupled mothers in three European countries in the context of a 24/7 economy and non-standard working hours (e.g. evening, night and weekend work).

Design/methodology/approach
– This study utilises survey data from Finnish, Dutch and British working mothers (n=1,106) collected as part of the “Families 24/7” research project. Multivariate regression analysis is used to analyse the associations between childcare-related challenges, maternal non-standard working, lone motherhood and country of residence.

Findings
– The results indicated similar results across the three countries by showing that working lone mothers experience childcare-related challenges more often compared with coupled mothers. Furthermore, an increase in maternal non-standard working associated positively with increased childcare-related challenges in both lone mother and coupled families but lone motherhood did not moderate this association. The findings suggest that, regardless of family form, families in all three countries struggle with childcare arrangements when the mother works during non-standard hours. This possibly relates to the inadequate provision of state-subsidised and flexible formal childcare during non-standard hours and to the country-specific maternal work hours cultures.

Originality/value
– This study responds to the need for comparative research on the reconciliation of maternal non-standard working and childcare with self-collected data from three European welfare states. The importance of the study is further highlighted by the risks posed to the maintenance of maternal employment and family well-being when reconciliation of work and childcare is unsuccessful, especially in lone-mother families.
Mission: studio based learning in construction. The University of KwaZulu-Natal case study
Authors: Harinarain Nishani , Haupt Theodore C. 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– This paper aims to present the responses of students to various aspects of a cluster of discrete modules delivered using a studio-based learning pedagogy.

Design/methodology/approach
– A variation of a case study approach was used that included observations and a survey of student opinions on six constructs or themes after a period of eight weeks into the semester about their experience of studio-based learning in a three-module cluster. This paper only reports on the findings of the analysis of the self-administered survey of the views of students.

Findings
– The student responses were analysed using SPSS (version 22). It is evident that the distinguishing features of the studio-based learning form of instructional delivery were reflected in their views despite the instructional space being far from ideal. However, given that this was their first experience they were apprehensive about the benefits of the approach to them personally especially in terms of whether their acquired knowledge base was broad enough for them to be confident about their future careers. The mapping of the learning outcomes of the modules against the project phases demonstrated that only the mode of transmission had in fact changed. Students were reticent about taking responsibility for their own learning possibly because they perceived that as being too risky.

Research limitations/implications
– The research is limited because the findings are based on a single case and a sample of students who had experienced eight weeks of studio-based learning of a cluster of three discrete modules in a revitalised construction program.

Originality/value
– The findings of this study have implications for the way construction programs are delivered at institutions of higher education.
A case study on applying creative design concepts to brake rotor design
Authors: Vinodh S. , T. Sharath Kumar 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to report a study in which creative design concepts have been applied to automotive brake rotor design.

Design/methodology/approach
– The literature review on creative design concepts and braking system scenario has been carried out. By studying the existing brake rotors and applying creative design concepts, modified rotor designs have been developed.

Findings
– The experience gained out of the study indicated that braking efficiency and durability of the braking system can be significantly improved by the adoption of proposed designs.

Research limitations/implications
– The research has been carried out for an automotive passenger car. The findings of this research work could be extended to similar models of buses and trucks.

Practical implications
– The usage of the proposed designs reduces the driver’s effort in braking and adds significantly to the life of the rotors.

Originality/value
– A case study has been reported to indicate the application of creative design concepts for enhancing the efficiency of automotive braking system in cars.
Legal deposit of electronic books – a review of challenges faced by national libraries
Authors: De Beer Marietjie , Van der Merwe Marieta , Ball Liezl , Fourie Ina 
Published: March 2016

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges faced by national libraries regarding the legal deposit of electronic books, and to make recommendations for issues to consider – especially with regard to developing, planning and implementing.Design/methodology/approach– Literature published from 2000 to 2014 on legal deposit of electronic publications was examined. Key databases covering library and information science were searched, and case studies, general reviews, research papers/reports and view point articles were considered.Findings– National libraries embarking on projects on legal deposit of electronic books need to consider the collection, preservation and accessibility of the legal deposit collection. They face challenges regarding legal deposit legislation and institutional policy, legal considerations such as copyright, environmental factors, established mechanisms for deposit, information retrieval and access, preservation, human resources, financial implications and trust. Further research and continued monitoring of issues of concern and changes are required due to technological developments and the obsolescence of technology.Practical implications– The review raises awareness of issues that need to be considered by national libraries and other repositories to manage the legal deposit of electronic books in their institutions.Originality/value– The review can serve as a guide for nations (particularly in developing countries) to embark on the legal deposit of electronic publications, specifically electronic books.
Which platform should I choose? Factors influencing consumers’ channel transfer intention from web-based to mobile library service
Authors: Zhang Min , Shen Xuele , Zhu Mingxing , Yang Jun 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– With more and more individuals relying on mobile devices to obtain information, many libraries launch mobile application to satisfy mobile users’ information need. The purpose of this paper is to figure out factors influencing consumers’ channel transfer intention of library service from web-based platform to mobile app.

Design/methodology/approach
– A structural equation model is proposed based on categorization theory. In addition, situational contexts are taken into account to make research model more suitable for the real condition. Data collected from 319 samples are used for hypotheses examining.

Findings
– The relationships between source and target (perceived differentiation including function differentiation and resource differentiation) positively affect perceived situation efficiency, which in turn shapes intention to use mobile library application. Perceived mobile library quality positively influences perceived differentiation, perceived situation efficiency and mobile library adoption intention. In summary, perceived situation efficiency is the main factor.

Practical implications
– Both quality and situational factors should be taken seriously, and mobile device producers and mobile app developers should cooperate on improving the quality of mobile app. Meanwhile, it is critical to examine the relationship between web based and mobile library service in the initial or early stage of mobile library development.

Originality/value
– By focussing on the impacts of the relationship between web and mobile library service and evaluation of mobile library on the adoption intention, this paper not only provides a theoretical understanding of mobile library adoption behavior but also offers practical insights to library managers and app developers for promoting such a process.