bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Pandora's box of social integration mechanisms
Authors: Armstrong Craig E. , Lengnick‐Hall Cynthia A. 
Published: February 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to perform empirical tests to explore the influence of social integration mechanisms on organizations’ absorptive capacities theorized by Zahra and George.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses a cross‐sectional design to test the relationships between potential absorptive capacity, three social integration mechanisms (cross‐functional teams, participation in decision making, and self‐managing teams), and realized absorptive capacity, in a sample of 92 organizations that bid competitively to provide products and services to a US university.FindingsAn organization's use of cross‐functional teams is negatively related to its realized absorptive capacity and negatively moderates the relationship between potential and realized absorptive capacity. Self‐managing teams negatively moderate the relationship between an organization's potential absorptive capacity and its realized absorptive capacity.Research limitations/implicationsThe cross‐sectional design allows tests of relatedness but does not support cause‐and‐effect inferences.Practical implicationsManagers who follow the prescriptive implications of using social integration mechanisms to enhance their organization's absorptive capacity may actually hinder it. The type of social integration mechanism is an important consideration for managers of firm strategies.Originality/valueThis study extends and challenges the literature on absorptive capacity through its empirical analysis of the role of social integration mechanisms on an organization's absorptive capacity. Social integration mechanisms can have mixed moderating effects on the absorptive capacity development process, and potential absorptive capacity is not easily transformed into realized absorptive capacity. This study expands the context of absorptive capacity beyond R&D settings and incorporates a task environment that allows a direct linking of inputs and outputs.
Scanning the macro‐environment for liquid biofuels
Authors: Talamini Edson , Wubben Emiel F.M. , Domingos Padula Antônio , Dewes Homero 
Published: February 2013

PurposeMacro‐environmental scanning is a first step in strategic planning, which is essential in an emerging industry such as liquid biofuels. The purpose of this paper is to identify the dimensions within which the governments of Brazil, the USA and Germany have constructed the macro‐environment for liquid biofuels over time and to test for similarities between the governments’ constructs.Design/methodology/approachDocumentary research was carried out on official public policies and program documents on the topic of liquid biofuels, covering a ten‐year period from 1997 to 2006. The database consisted of 624 documents from the Brazilian government, 854 from the American government and 168 documents from the German government. Text mining was used to extract information from the texts by applying a specific analysis structure that was built on macro‐environmental dimensions as expressed by their respective dimensional words “d‐words”. The “d‐words” were selected based on their usage frequency in the knowledge fields related to each dimension.FindingsThe results indicate that the macro‐environments for liquid biofuels, as configured by the governments under analysis, differ systematically and over time in their emphasis of specific macro‐environmental dimensions.Originality/valueThere are two primary aspects of this study which are original and valuable: the application of text‐mining techniques as a tool for strategic planning and the development of a particular tool to extract knowledge from text documents and to categorize them according to their macro‐environmental dimensions.
Revisiting the concept of competitive advantage
Authors: Sigalas Christos , Pekka Economou Victoria 
Published: February 2013

PurposeAlthough competitive advantage is the cornerstone concept in strategic management it still remains a poorly defined and operationalized construct. The purpose of this paper is to revisit the concept of competitive advantage, to identify the problems that stem from its current conceptualization from the majority of the literature.Design/methodology/approachThe paper undertakes an extensive literature review, audit of logical inference, syllogistic reasoning and Bayesian expressions in order to examine the problems associated with the current conceptualizations of competitive advantage.FindingsSeveral drawbacks and fallacies relating to current conceptualizations of competitive advantage were identified that create an urgent need for a more robust definition which could better serve the needs of both empirical research and management practice.Research limitations/implicationsThe authors by no means claim that the literature review undertaken in this paper on the concept of competitive advantage and on the problems derived from its conceptualization was exhaustive or absolute. Rather, this paper constitutes an attempt to stimulate efforts and provide directions on the further conceptual development of competitive advantage.Practical implicationsThe findings allow practising managers to not necessarily associate competitive advantage with its sources and with the determinants of superior performance.Originality/valueThe findings contribute to the evolution of the strategic management field by identifying, categorizing and mapping potential problems, drawbacks and fallacies, associated with the conceptualization of competitive advantage as currently delineated in the literature, and by suggesting some criteria for the development of a conceptually more robust definition.
Meeting the climate change challenges in river basin planning
Authors: Sten Hansen Henning 
Published: February 2013

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to present a scenario‐based approach to river basin planning, and demonstrate how land‐use planning can be utilised as a strong measure in meeting the climate change challenges with new precipitation patterns during the current century.Design/methodology/approachThe current research takes a scenario‐based approach to river basin planning. A modelling framework is defined to assess the effects of active spatial planning to mitigate the negative consequences of climate change in river basin management. In total, three models are included in the framework: a land‐use model, a runoff model, and a flooding screening model.FindingsThe research has demonstrated the advantages of using models and scenarios to assess the effects of climate change in river basin management, and how active spatial planning – in the current example afforestation – can mitigate negative consequences of climate change.Research limitations/implicationsThe current research demonstrates how to combine models from different fields into one integrated model for impact assessment.Practical implicationsThe developed methodology will assist river basin managers to assess the effects of river basin management plans.Social implicationsThe consequences of climate change are mainstream topics discussed by most citizens and results from the models can facilitate a qualified debate.Originality/valueThe paper analyses the feasibility of using active spatial planning to mitigate the negative consequences of climate change, such as flooding along rivers. This work is original, as no such analysis has been carried out before.
The process of social adaptation towards climate change among Malaysian fishermen
Authors: Azril Mohamed Shaffril Hayrol , Abu Samah Bahaman , Lawrence D'Silva Jeffrey , Sulaiman  
Published: February 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the level of social adaptation to climate change among fishermen in the East Coast Region of Peninsular Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachA set of questionnaires was developed based on the individual adaptive capacity framework on social adaptation to climate change developed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. Based on multi‐stage simple random sampling, a total of 300 registered fishermen in the East Coast Region of Peninsular Malaysia were chosen as the respondents.FindingsThe fishermen surveyed had a high level of adaptation with regards to two aspects: first, environmental awareness, attitudes and beliefs; and second, local environmental knowledge. In contrast, they showed a low level of adaptation with regards to three aspects: attachment to place; formal and informal networks; and attachment to occupation. In addition, the fishermen had a moderate level of adaptation in relation to ten other aspects.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings of this study reflect social adaptation towards climate change among registered fishermen in the East Coast Region of Malaysia and results might be different if registered fishermen from other regions are included.Practical implicationsThe study demonstrated the strengths and weaknesses of the fishermen's adaptations to climate change. Such strengths and weaknesses have resulted in a number of suggestions and recommendations, which may work as tools by which to generate well‐planned and systematic adaptation options for dealing with the threatening impacts of climate change.Originality/valuePrevious studies, both local and international, have consistently provided comprehensive explanatory reviews regarding climate change impacts on fishermen's activities. However, the common constraint of these studies is that aspects of adaptation are not under their radar; therefore, this study aims to fill this gap.
Clarifying vulnerability definitions and assessments using formalisation
Authors: Wolf Sarah , Hinkel Jochen , Hallier Mareen , Bisaro Alexander , Lincke Daniel , Ionescu Cezar , Klein Richard J.T. 
Published: February 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a formal framework of vulnerability to climate change, to address the conceptual confusion around vulnerability and related concepts.Design/methodology/approachThe framework was developed using the method of formalisation – making structure explicit. While mathematics as a precise and general language revealed common structures in a large number of vulnerability definitions and assessments, the framework is here presented by diagrams for a non‐mathematical audience.FindingsVulnerability, in ordinary language, is a measure of possible future harm. Scientific vulnerability definitions from the fields of climate change, poverty, and natural hazards share and refine this structure. While theoretical definitions remain vague, operational definitions, that is, methodologies for assessing vulnerability, occur in three distinct types: evaluate harm for projected future evolutions, evaluate the current capacity to reduce harm, or combine the two. The framework identifies a lack of systematic relationship between theoretical and operational definitions.Originality/valueWhile much conceptual literature tries to clarify vulnerability, formalisation is a new method in this interdisciplinary field. The resulting framework is an analytical tool which supports clear communication: it helps when making assumptions explicit. The mismatch between theoretical and operational definitions is not made explicit in previous work.
Synergies between climate change adaptation and mitigation in development
Authors: Sugar Lorraine , Kennedy Chris , Hoornweg Dan 
Published: February 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to understand how cities at different stages of development each subject to its own challenges in adapting to climate change can manage greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.Design/methodology/approachCase studies are undertaken for three cities: Amman, Jakarta and Dar es Salaam, including determination of GHG emissions and analysis of climate change data (where available) for each.FindingsIn Amman, the most climate‐sensitive municipal service is water; Jordan is exceptionally dry, and nearly 15 per cent of all electricity consumption is by the water authority. Jakarta has already experienced extreme flooding. The climate vulnerabilities associated with sea‐level rise are intensified by subsidence in parts of Jakarta. Alternating floods and droughts are climate impacts already experienced in Dar es Salaam. Droughts have impacted Tanzania's electricity infrastructure disrupting hydroelectricity production, requiring new natural gas infrastructure to maintain power, thereby increasing GHG emissions. Nonetheless, Dar es Salaam's GHG emissions at 0.56 t CO2e/cap are small compared to Amman and Jakarta at 3.66 and 4.92 t CO2e/cap., respectively.Originality/valueSynergist development strategies, addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation are suggested. In Amman an increased share of photovoltaic electricity production might be used for service provision, especially for energy needs surrounding water supply. Advanced slum upgrading in Jakarta could see relocation of the at‐risk poor to safe areas with energy efficient homes connected to public transit and decentralized, community‐based electricity generation. The focus in Dar es Salaam community‐based waste‐to‐energy facilities would reduce climate change impacts and vulnerabilities while addressing energy poverty in poor communities.
Experiences of leaving prison for people with intellectual disability
Authors: Ellem Kathy 
Published: February 2013

PurposeThe support given to prisoners when they leave prison has a bearing on their success in starting a new life and on community safety. This paper aims to examine the community re‐entry experiences of ten people with an intellectual disability in Queensland, Australia.Design/methodology/approachThe findings in this paper are part of a wider study on the life stories of ex‐prisoners with an intellectual disability. Seven male and three female participants with intellectual disability were interviewed using a semi‐structured life story method. Interviews were respectful of the communication styles of participants and involved multiple interview sessions, ranging from two to nine interviews per person. Data were analysed using narrative and thematic analysis with the assistance of NVivo 8 software.FindingsParticipants found the process of leaving prison an emotional event, often clouded with both confusion about when release was to occur, and uncertainly as to what they could expect on the outside. The need for concrete information and coordinated hands‐on assistance in negotiating supports in the community have significant implications for correctional and community services.Originality/valueThis study captures the perspectives of people with intellectual disability on community re‐entry. These perspectives are often overlooked in policy and practice developments in the field of corrections. Yet without understanding this group, the field is unable to address their particular needs.
Adult diagnosis of pathological demand avoidance – subsequent care planning
Authors: Eaton Judy , Banting Rosie 
Published: February 2013

PurposeMany patients in residential and secure settings have no formal diagnosis of Autism but may in fact be on the spectrum. This paper seeks to outline the diagnosis and subsequent treatment and intervention planning for a young woman in a low secure hospital.Design/methodology/approachThis paper summarises the literature in relation to the diagnosis of Pathological Demand Avoidance (an atypical presentation of Autism Spectrum Disorder) in children and describes how this diagnosis may present in adults. This search revealed that whilst there was a growing literature around PDA in Children, there was very little literature available about either the clinical presentation or management guidance in adults. A case study design was adopted.FindingsThe paper concludes that the lack of an appropriate diagnosis and inappropriate formulation of the underlying causes of challenging behaviour can lead to patients becoming impossible to manage. Many may benefit from diagnosis and Autism‐specific intervention.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the challenges of adult diagnosis of Autism in highly complex individuals and outlines novel approaches to treatment.
Promoting social inclusion through community arts
Authors: Swan Peter 
Published: February 2013

PurposeUsing a case study of Artspace, a community arts and health charity, this article discusses how community‐based organisations can successfully promote the social inclusion of people with mental illness and other disabilities.Design/methodology/approachA research project involved a year‐long ethnographic engagement with Artspace, where the researcher participated within the organisation and worked closely with both staff and participants. It drew upon informal discussions and 43 semi‐structured interviews with participants and staff.FindingsSocial inclusion was fostered through the positive and welcoming atmosphere within the building and also through the nature of the activities themselves. There was evidence that interactions between people with and without disabilities helped to challenge negative perceptions held by both groups. Artspace also offered a safe and non‐judgemental environment for vulnerable participants whilst avoiding the downsides associated with services aimed solely at people with mental health difficulties or other disabilities.Research limitations/implicationsThe case study approach was based on a single organisation and thus transferability of findings may be problematic.Originality/valueThis article has shown it is possible for a community‐based organisation to meet the needs of a wide range of people whilst maintaining a safe environment for vulnerable participants. These findings may thus be of use to similar organisations seeking to diversify their user base.
Happiness in severe mental illness: exploring subjective wellbeing of individuals with psychosis and encouraging socially inclusive multidisciplinary practice
Authors: Mankiewicz Pawel D. , Gresswell David M. , Turner Colin 
Published: February 2013

PurposeThis paper seeks to extend the focus of positive psychology research to individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) to address an aspect of social exclusion experienced by this disadvantaged client group.Design/methodology/approachThe article summarises and builds on the outcomes of an earlier subjective wellbeing in psychosis study and arrives at original implications to challenge socially exclusive assumptions about limited emotional capabilities of those with SMI. The authors make suggestions for enhancing the wellbeing of people with SMI from the perspective of social inclusion. Data were gathered through validated self‐report rating scales and analysed statistically.FindingsThe levels of subjective wellbeing within the sample were shown to approximate those established in the general population. Depression was demonstrated to mediate the effects that the experience of psychosis had on participants' life satisfaction. Psychosis did not appear to prevent individuals from experiencing happiness, although when associated with depression, life satisfaction was lowered.Research limitations/implicationsBecause of the focus on subjective aspects of wellbeing, external indicators of objective quality of life were not explored. Individual appraisals of experiences of psychosis were not investigated.Originality/valueThe study demonstrates that individuals with psychosis are capable of experiencing happiness. Thus, it challenges an aspect of a widespread socially exclusive assumption about limited internal capabilities of those with SMI. It also highlights that those with combined symptoms of psychosis and depression are in particular need of multidisciplinary support to enhance their wellbeing.
Supervised community treatment: does it facilitate social inclusion? A perspective from approved mental health professionals (AMHPs)
Authors: Taylor Jacqueline Ann , Lawton‐Smith Simon , Bullmore Hannah 
Published: February 2013

PurposeThis paper aims to set out the views of approved mental health professionals (AMHPs) on the impact of supervised community treatment (SCT) on their work and their patients' lives in the community.Design/methodology/approachThe study covered a total of 56 community treatment order (CTO)‐related activities undertaken in 2010 in a local social services authority (LSSA) in the north west of England, and looked at data from the records of 25 CTO patients. Nine AMHPs responded to a CTO outcomes questionnaire and five participated in a focus group.FindingsThe characteristics of CTO patients in this LSSA study were consistent with national data. AMHPs were often undecided about the benefits of CTOs to their patients. A majority agreed that CTOs could benefit patients by earlier identification of relapse, improving access to housing and reducing the risk of avoidable harm to self or others. However, a majority also agreed that CTOs had not improved patients' access to employment, education, training or recreational activities; nor had they helped reduce the stigma and discrimination that patients faced.Research limitations/implicationsThis was a relatively small‐scale study. However, its findings are consistent with previous work in this area, and provide pointers to how SCT can be more effectively implemented across England.Originality/valueThere is very little published research into the impact of SCT in England. Although small in scale, this study provides valuable insights into the views of AMHPs, who play a core role in the CTO process.
Human motion tracking and recognition using HMM by a mobile robot
Authors: Nergui Myagmarbayar , Yoshida Yuki , Imamoglu Nevrez , Gonzalez Jose , Sekine Masashi , Yu Wenwei 
Published: February 2013

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to develop autonomous mobile home healthcare robots, which are capable of observing patients’ motions, recognizing the patients’ behaviours based on observation data, and providing automatically calling for medical personnel in emergency situations. The robots to be developed will bring about cost‐effective, safe and easier at‐home rehabilitation to most motor‐function impaired patients (MIPs).Design/methodology/approachThe paper has developed following programs/control algorithms: control algorithms for a mobile robot to track and follow human motions, to measure human joint trajectories, and to calculate angles of lower limb joints; and algorithms for recognizing human gait behaviours based on the calculated joints angle data.FindingsA Hidden Markov Model (HMM) based human gait behaviour recognition taking lower limb joint angles and body angle as input was proposed. The proposed HMM based gait behaviour recognition is compared with the Nearest Neighbour (NN) classification methods. Experimental results showed that a human gait behaviour recognition using HMM can be achieved from the lower limb joint trajectory with higher accuracy than compared classification methods.Originality/valueThe research addresses human motion tracking and recognition by a mobile robot. Human gait behaviour recognition is HMM based lower limb joints and body angle data from extracted from kinect sensor at the mobile robot.