bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bases of power and conflict intervention strategy: a study on Turkish managers
Authors: Kamil Kozan M. , Ergin Canan , Varoglu Kadir 
Published: February 2014

Purpose– This study aims to develop an influence perspective for managerial intervention in subordinates conflicts, which helps to represent various strategies identified in the literature in a single model. Managers' power base was then related to their intervention strategies. Drawing upon Social Judgment Theory, anchoring of subordinates positions is studied as a moderating variable.Design/methodology/approach– Thirty nine supervisors and their 165 subordinates from several organizations in Turkey filled out a questionnaire reporting power base of supervisor and their intervention strategy utilizing the critical incident technique.Findings– Referent power of superior led to mediation in subordinates' conflicts. However, mediation decreased while restructuring, arbitration, and educative strategies increased with increased anchoring of subordinates' positions. These latter strategies mostly relied on reward power of manager. Subordinate satisfaction was highest with mediation and lowest when supervisors distanced themselves from the conflict.Research limitations/implications– The present study could only test the moderating effect of escalation as an anchoring variable. Future studies may look at the anchoring effect of whether the dispute is handled in public or in private, and whether the parties have a competing versus collaborative or compromising styles.Practical implications– Training of managers in mediation may be essential in cultures where they play a focal role in handling subordinates conflicts. Such training may have to take into account their broader influence strategies and use of power.Originality/value– An influence perspective is useful in integrating the vast array of managerial intervention strategies in the literature. Furthermore, the anchoring effect provides a theoretical explanation for managers' use of more forceful intervention with less cooperative subordinates.
Developing a Persian inpatient satisfaction questionnaire
Authors: Arab Mohammad , Rashidian Arash , Pourreza Abolghasem , Tajvar Maryam , Khabiri Nemati Roghayeh , Akbari Sari Ali , Rahimi Forooshani Abbas 
Published: February 2014

Purpose
– Valid and reliable measures are required for assessing patient satisfaction meaningfully. The purpose of this paper was to develop and validate a Persian-language in-patient satisfaction questionnaire for patients discharged from Iranian medical and surgical services.

Design/methodology/approach
– The cross-sectional survey included 400 patients randomly selected from six Tehran hospitals. A total of 405 patients responded to the questionnaire (76.3 percent response). To assess inter-item reliability and construct validity, factor analysis was carried out. Items belonging to each factor and their Cronbach's alpha coefficient were calculated.

Findings
– A total of seven dimensions were identified: doctor-patient communication; nursing care; convenience; visitors; cleanliness; costs; and general satisfaction. Together, these dimensions explained 60 percent of the variance. All items, except three, revealed loadings above 0.4, while Cronbach's alpha exceeded 0.8 for all dimensions, except visitors (0.66). Patient satisfaction levels were relatively high.

Practical implications
– Results must be interpreted cautiously owing to high satisfaction, which should not be considered as comprehensive evidence of high performance without important additional service-performance information. Qualitative studies are recommended to complement the authors' quantitative satisfaction study.

Originality/value
– The patient satisfaction questionnaire strives to be a valid and reliable instrument for assessing in-patient satisfaction with hospital services in Iran.
Covert research and adult protection and safeguarding: an ethical dilemma?
Authors: Parker Jonathan , Ashencaen Crabtree Sara 
Published: February 2014

Purpose– This paper aims to consider the contentious issue of covert research in studying the social contexts of vulnerable groups. It explores its potential utility in areas where overt strategies may be problematic or denied; and examines and problematises the issue of participant consent.Design/methodology/approach– Using a literature-based review and selected previous studies, the paper explores the uses and abuses of covert research in relation to ethics review proceedings governing social research, with an especial focus on vulnerability.Findings– Findings indicate that although the use of covert research is subject to substantial critique by apparently transgressing the often unquestioned moral legitimacy of informed consent, this carries ethical and practical utility for research related to safeguarding concerns. Arguably covert research enables research access to data likely to reveal abusive and oppressive practices.Research limitations/implications– Covert research assists in illuminating the hidden voices and lives of vulnerable people that may otherwise remain inaccessible. Such research needs to be subject to rigorous ethical standards to ensure that it is both justified and robust.Practical implications– Emphasising the need to consider all angles, questions and positions when addressing the social problem of adult protection and safeguarding.Originality/value– Increasingly social research is treated as being as potentially harmful as medical research. Ethics review tends towards conservative conformity, legitimising methodologies that may serve less social utility than other forms of investigation that privilege the safeguarding of vulnerable people.
Creating multi-vendor solutions: the resources and capabilities required
Authors: Owen Raddats Chris , Burton Jamie 
Published: February 2014

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the resources and capabilities required by manufacturers to develop and deliver multi-vendor solutions.Design/methodology/approach– A multi-case design comprising six UK-based manufacturers: two from each of the aerospace/defence, information technology and telecommunications sectors.Findings– Manufacturers can be characterized by their propensity to include products from other vendors in their solutions; single vendor solution providers (SVSPs) focus on solutions comprising their own products, while multi-vendor solution providers (MVSPs) fully embrace products from other manufacturers. Three capabilities were identified which distinguish MVSPs from SVSPs given the complexity of multi-vendor solutions (expertise specifying the solution, engineers trained in implementing/supporting the solution, partnerships with component suppliers of the solution). These capabilities are underpinned by both technical capability and impartiality in solution specification.Research limitations/implications– MVSPs need to be impartial when specifying customer solutions. They should be guided by the best interests of the customer rather than the interests of the product-based SBUs. Achieving impartiality can conflict with some manufacturers' product heritage. The research has focused on three sectors; further research is needed to test whether the findings are applicable beyond these sectors.Practical implications– Solutions are a valuable approach in creating market differentiation, although not all manufacturers will possess the resources/capabilities to be successful.Originality/value– A continuum of solution providers is proposed; SVSPs at one extreme and MVSPs at the other. The operant resource-based capability “impartiality” was identified as being particularly important to MVSPs in creating value for customers.
Product importance and complexity as determinants of adaptation processes in business relationships
Authors: Sales Baptista Cristina 
Published: February 2014

Purpose
– The aim of this paper is to characterize adaptation processes in business relationships. The nature of adaptive behavior is described by outlining activities and events in these relationships. The role of perceived product importance and complexity in the character of the adaptations processes is sought.

Design/methodology/approach
– A case study approach is adopted and two long-term relationships between buyers and sellers of capital equipment in the mining industry are investigated. Perspectives from both sides of the dyad (buyer and seller) were attained through in-depth interviews.

Findings
– Findings show that supplier-based adaptations occur more frequently than customer-based adaptations. The market antecedents of concentration and resource dependency are identified as drivers of adaptive behavior. Furthermore, product importance and complexity are key drivers to adaptation processes and the development of long-term relationships. Supplier's brand name and the choice of a direct channel strategy are identified as indicators of long-term commitment to the market. Moreover, two-task related factors were extremely relevant as selection criteria for capital equipment: the functional suitability and the degree of standardization/customization of the equipment.

Research limitations/implications
– The findings are specific to the market environment and recommendations are given for the realm of the mining industry. Multi-case studies in multi-contexts should be conducted to enable generalization and potential theory-building.

Practical implications
– A number of important managerial implications for buyers and sellers of capital equipment in the mining industry are given.

Originality/value
– This paper contributes to knowledge by providing rich descriptions of adaptation processes. This real life evidence enables the identification of major drivers of adaptive behavior and, consequently, the development of long-term successful relationships.
Three strategies for customer value assessment in business markets
Authors: Keränen Joona , Jalkala Anne 
Published: February 2014

Purpose– The strategies to assess potential and realized customer value have received surprisingly little attention in management literature. The purpose of this paper is to examine potential customer value assessment strategies for business-to-business (B2B) firms and their special characteristics.Design/methodology/approach– The empirical part of the study draws from an exploratory, two-part field study involving three pilot firms, and seven best practice firms in customer value assessment. The research design followed an inductive, discovery-oriented grounded theory approach. Primary data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 35 business managers from ten B2B firms.Findings– The study identifies three customer value assessment strategies adopted by firms in business markets: Emergent value sales strategy; Life-cycle value management strategy; and Dedicated value specialist strategy. These strategies highlight different ways of managing and coordinating organizational units in different phases of the customer value assessment process.Research limitations/implications– The study was conducted from the supplier's perspective and is context-bound to firms operating in B2B markets.Practical implications– Managers need to select an appropriate strategy for customer value assessment depending on market and offering characteristics, and assign clear responsibilities for value potential identification, baseline assessment, and long-term value realization.Originality/value– The extant literature on customer value lacks understanding on customer value assessment strategies. The present study identifies three strategies that illuminate the required resources and organizational units at different phases of the customer value assessment process.
Organizational design and pricing capabilities for superior firm performance
Authors: Liozu Stephan , Hinterhuber Andreas , Somers Toni 
Published: February 2014

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to test the relationship between organizational antecedents, pricing capabilities, and firm performance.Design/methodology/approach– Quantitative survey of 748 managers from mostly large companies globally.Findings– It was found that the following five key organizational resources (the 5 Cs) – center-led price management, organizational confidence, championing behaviors, organizational change capacity, and pricing capabilities – positively influence firm performance. Furthermore, it was found that center-led price management, organizational change capacity, and championing behaviors act as important antecedents to pricing capabilities and, except for the former, to organizational confidence. The authors also examine interaction and mediation effects.Originality/value– The results thus suggest that generic organizational factors – namely center-led price management – as well as highly idiosyncratic firm, specific capabilities – namely organizational confidence, championing behaviors by top management, organizational change capacity, and pricing capabilities – are key requirements to increase firm performance via pricing.
Automatic Comparison and Evaluation of Impressions Left by a Firearm on Fired Cartridge Cases
Authors: Riva Fabiano , Champod Christophe 
Published: February 2014

AbstractRecent years have been characterized by a series of publications in the field of firearms investigation questioning the reliability and objectivity of such examination. This research investigates new solutions to decrease the subjective component affecting the evaluation that follows the comparison of impressions left by a firearm on the surface of spent cartridge cases. An automatic comparison system based on 3D measurements has been developed and coupled to a bivariate evaluative model allowing assigning likelihood ratios. Based on a dataset of 79 pistols (all SIG Sauer 9 mm Luger caliber), the system shows a very high discriminating power and the LRs that it provides are very indicative of the true state under both the prosecution and the defense propositions. For example, likelihood ratios exceeding a billion are predominantly obtained when impressions originating from the same source are compared. The system is also characterized by relatively low rates (≤1%) of misleading evidence depending on the firearm considered.
Ancestry Assessment Using Random Forest Modeling, ,
Authors: Hefner Joseph T. , Spradley M. Kate , Anderson Bruce 
Published: February 2014

AbstractA skeletal assessment of ancestry relies on morphoscopic traits and skeletal measurements. Using a sample of American Black (n = 38), American White (n = 39), and Southwest Hispanics (n = 72), the present study investigates whether these data provide similar biological information and combines both data types into a single classification using a random forest model (RFM). Our results indicate that both data types provide similar information concerning the relationships among population groups. Also, by combining both in an RFM, the correct allocation of ancestry for an unknown cranium increases. The distribution of cross‐validated grouped cases correctly classified using discriminant analyses and RFMs ranges between 75.4% (discriminant function analysis, morphoscopic data only) and 89.6% (RFM). Unlike the traditional, experience‐based approach using morphoscopic traits, the inclusion of both data types in a single analysis is a quantifiable approach accounting for more variation within and between groups, reducing misclassification rates, and capturing aspects of cranial shape, size, and morphology.
False‐Positive Results with Amylase Testing of Citrus Fruits
Authors: Ricci Ugo , Carboni Ilaria , Torricelli Francesca 
Published: February 2014

AbstractIn a case of robbery in which the criminals passed through the garden adorned with calamondin trees (Citrus madurensis), the investigators found in the grass six calamondin fruits, some undamaged, while others apparently bitten. The fruits were collected and sent to the laboratory for DNA analysis to verify the presence of saliva and robbers' DNA profile. A specific immunochromatographic strip test for saliva confirmed the presence of human salivary α‐amylase, but similar positive results were also observed for intact calamondin and other citrus fruits. Further analysis with a specific automated amylase test confirmed the absence of amylase activity. DNA quantification and typing using a specific forensic kit revealed no human DNA presence in any fruits. This case report demonstrates for the first time the occurrence of false positives when human saliva is sought on citrus fruits.
The effect of a change in selection procedures on students' motivation to study dentistry
Authors: Gardner SP , Roberts‐Thomson KF 
Published: February 2014

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of this study was to determine whether changes in student selection criteria at The University of Adelaide effected a change in motivation and influencing factors to study dentistry by comparing cohorts.MethodsOnline questionnaire completed by first‐year dentistry students at The University of Adelaide between 1993–1996 and 1997–2005.ResultsAll 666 students completed the questionnaire with 647 suitable for analysis. The likelihood of students being motivated for a career in dentistry because it ‘fits with family’ was greater for the 1997–2005 cohort (OR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.14–2.49, p < 0.01) than it was for 1993–1996 enrollees, whereas ‘status’ became less important (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.30–0.73, p < 0.01). Being influenced by a dentist (OR = 2.41, 95% CI = 1.63–3.55, p < 0.001) or a dental employee (OR = 3.19, 95% CI = 0.90–4.85, p < 0.001) was much greater for the 1997–2005 group than it was for the 1993–1996 cohort. Where students came from, parents' level of education and gender were not significant in the multivariate analysis of factors associated with motivation and influences of students' career choice.ConclusionsChanges to the selection procedure were associated with increased emphasis on lifestyle factors and the dental profession, but not with the desire to help people or the importance of the work itself in students' decision to study dentistry.
Effects of Fire on Seedling Diversity and Plant Reproduction (Sexual vs. Vegetative) in Neotropical Savannas Differing in Tree Density
Authors: Salazar Ana , Goldstein Guillermo 
Published: February 2014

AbstractLittle is known about the effects of fire on the structure and species composition of Neotropical savanna seedling communities. Such effects are critical for predicting long‐term changes in plant distribution patterns in these ecosystems. We quantified richness and density of seedlings within 144 plots of 1 m2located along a topographic gradient in long‐unburned (fire protected since 1983) and recently burned (September 2005) savannas in Brazil. These savannas differ in tree density and canopy cover. Sites along the gradient, however, did not differ in species composition prior to the fire. In recently burned savannas we also evaluated the contribution of vegetative reproduction relative to sexual reproduction by quantifying richness and density of root suckers. Finally, we tested seed tolerance to pulses of high temperatures—similar to those occurring during fires on the soil surface and below—of five dominant savanna tree species. Seedlings were more abundant and diverse in unburned than in burned savannas. Seedling species composition differed among unburned and burned savannas probably reflecting early differences in root: shoot biomass allocation patterns. In recently burned savannas, root suckers were more abundant and diverse than seedlings. Relatively long exposures (>10 min) of temperatures of 90 °C reduced seed germination in all studied species suggesting a negative effect of fire on germination of seeds located at or aboveground level. Because vegetative reproduction contributes more than sexual reproduction in burned environments, frequent fires are likely to cause major shifts in species composition of Neotropical savanna plant communities, favoring clonally produced recruits along tree density/topographic gradients.
Thyroglobulin antibody levels do not predict disease status in papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Smooke‐Praw Stephanie , Ro Kevin , Levin Olga , Ituarte Philip H. G. , Harari Avital , Yeh Michael W. 
Published: February 2014

SummaryBackgroundThyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb) are present in approximately 20% of patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and invalidate the serum thyroglobulin (Tg) level as a tumour marker. We examined whether trends in the TgAb level could serve as a surrogate marker of disease status in the surveillance of patients with PTC.MethodsAll patients found to have a least one positive postoperative TgAb level (determined by the Beckman‐Coulter Access Assay) after undergoing initial surgery for PTC from 2000 to 2010 at a single institution were included. Log–log transformation and linear regression were applied to longitudinal TgAb levels, yielding patient‐specific regression coefficients that categorized as follows: highly negative, moderately negative and positive/no trend. The recurrence rate in each category was then assessed.ResultsNinety‐three of 967 patients with PTC were included. Recurrent disease was detected in 19 patients (20%) after a mean follow‐up time of 51 months. Regression coefficients in the highly negative and moderately negative groups were not different, and hence these groups were pooled. The proportion of recurrent cases in the negative trend group was similar to that in the positive/no trend group (19·7% vs 21·9%, NS). The mean regression coefficients were similar for recurrent and nonrecurrent cases within both the negative trend group (−0·89 vs −0·80, NS) and the positive/no trend group (0·08 vs 0·33, NS).ConclusionTrends in the TgAb level do not predict disease status in PTC in our experience. In the context of most commercially available TgAb assays, surveillance of TgAb‐positive patients will hinge on high‐quality imaging until a valid alternative serum marker to Tg is identified.
Clinical features and treatment status of adult myasthenia gravis in Japan
Authors: Murai Hiroyuki , Masuda Masayuki , Utsugisawa Kimiaki , Nagane Yuriko , Suzuki Shigeaki , Imai Tomihiro , Motomura Masakatsu , Konno Shingo , Kira Jun‐ichi 
Published: February 2014

AbstractObjectiveMyasthenia gravis (MG) is classified as early‐onset MG (EOMG; age at onset ≤49 years), late‐onset MG (LOMG; age at onset ≥50 years) or thymoma‐associated MG (TAMG) (E‐L‐T classification). To clarify the characteristics of each group in the E‐L‐T classification in Japan, we carried out multicenter analyses of MG.MethodsA total of 640 adult patients from 11 MG centers participated in the study. Age at onset, sex, clinical symptoms, frequency of crisis, thymic pathology, positivity of autoantibodies against acetylcholine receptor (AChR) and muscle‐specific receptor tyrosine kinase (MuSK), selected treatment, Cushingoid appearance and post‐intervention status were evaluated in each group.ResultsEOMG, LOMG and TAMG accounted for 44%, 33%, and 23% of the patients, respectively. Females predominated in the EOMG group (77%), whereas there was no sex difference in the LOMG group. The frequency of ocular MG was the highest in the LOMG group (EOMG 15%, LOMG 38%, TAMG 12%). Bulbar symptoms and crisis were most frequent in the TAMG group. Anti‐AChR antibody was always positive in patients with TAMG (EOMG 70%, LOMG 78%, TAMG 99%), whereas anti‐MuSK antibody was never positive in TAMG patients, and more frequently detected in EOMG patients than in LOMG patients. Thymectomy was carried out in 51% of EOMG patients, 26% of LOMG patients and 97% of TAMG patients. Immunotherapy was carried out most aggressively in TAMG patients, and least aggressively in LOMG patients. Minimal manifestations or better with prednisolone ≤5 mg were achieved only in one‐third of EOMG and TAMG patients.ConclusionThymoma‐associated MG required the most aggressive immunotherapy, followed by early‐onset MG.