bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Primary health care services quality in Spain
Authors: Miranda Francisco J. , Chamorro Antonio , Murillo Luis R. , Vega Juan 
Published: November 2012

PurposeService quality is an elusive and abstract construct, so that particular effort is required to establish a valid measure. Patients' perceptions of health services seem to have been largely ignored by health care providers. The purpose of this paper is to propose a modified approach to the measurement of service quality in a primary health care setting.Design/methodology/approachThrough the use of the HEALTHQUAL scale adapted from the SERVQUAL scale to the context of primary health care centres, the authors measure the perceptions of service quality reported by both users and health centre managers in Spain. Taking service quality to be a construct of a formative nature, the authors propose a modification for its measurement using partial least squares (PLS) path modelling, as recommended in the literature for the modeling of formative constructs.FindingsIt is found that the model provides health centre managers with a tool for the measurement of functional quality in their organization. The results reveal the importance of health staff attributes and efficiency measures for the perception of health centre quality.Research limitations/implicationsThe model can also be used to measure how health care centre managers believe that patients perceive the quality of their service. This allows the potential gap between the provider's view and the customer's view to be assessed and monitored.Originality/valueThe paper extends the previous literature in two directions. First, based on SERVQUAL, it presents a general framework for measuring primary health care service quality as a construct of a formative nature. Second, it is the first application of PLS path modeling to the simultaneous examination of both users' and health centre managers' perceptions in a European context.
Expectations on corporate climate action under regulatory uncertainty
Authors: Buhr Katarina , Hjerpe Mattias 
Published: November 2012

PurposeIn absence of extensive regulation, expectations can be a noteworthy institutional pressure driving corporate climate change action. The purpose of this study is to explore expectations on businesses to act on climate change when the anticipations for a new global climate agreement are relatively low. Expectations on corporate climate action are compared in two ways: to the previous year, when anticipations for a new international climate treaty were high, and to other categories of societal actors.Design/methodology/approachThis paper builds on a questionnaire handed out to an élite sample of 205 participants at the UN climate conference COP16/CMP6 in Cancún 2010, when anticipations were low for regulatory breakthrough in the international climate negotiations.FindingsThe responses suggest that expectations on businesses in 2010 did not decrease compared to 2009, when anticipations were high for regulatory breakthrough. A total of 40 percent of the respondents indicated that their expectations had increased since the previous year. Expectations on businesses were relatively high compared to other societal actors; and the highest expectations were expressed by businesses themselves.Originality/valueThe results provide an empirical foundation which stimulates thinking around expectations that make up an important component in the business environment. It is the first systematic ranking of expectations on business to act on climate change among participants at the UN climate change conference, one of the most prominent arenas in the field. The timing for the data collection provides a unique opportunity to analyse how expectations are related to different levels of regulatory anticipation.
Climate change and the future of South Africa's wine industry
Authors: Vink Nick , Deloire Alain , Bonnardot Valerie , Ewert Joachim 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to attempt to synthesise the lessons from at least four different ways of looking at the South Africa wine industry: economics, climatology, viticulture, and the sociology of work.Design/methodology/approachThe economic performance of South Africa's wine industry since democratisation in the early 1990s is reviewed, as is the effect of climate change on the industry. This is followed by an assessment of possible strategies for building international competitiveness whilst simultaneously coping with the effects of climate change.FindingsWhile industry systems should allow the marketing of speciality wines (e.g. from a single vineyard, from a single estate), this is not a viable strategy for most wine producers. Furthermore, climate change will lead to volatility in the characteristics that identify different terroirs.Practical implicationsIndustry strategies should rather focus on the benefits of diversity, but with a range of adaptations that will also result in better quality wines. These encompass quality; geographic location; viticultural practices; the style of wines and the renewal of skills. In synthesising this argument, the authors then consider whether such a strategy could enhance or hinder greater international competitiveness for the industry.Originality/valueThe results can be taken into consideration by policy makers and industry stakeholders in designing future strategies.
Reducing depression among perinatal drug users – what is needed? A triangulated study
Authors: Gilchrist Gail , Cameron Jacqui , Nicolson Susan , Galbally Megan , Moore Paddy 
Published: November 2012

PurposePerinatal drug users are a marginalized group at risk of depression and parenting stress. This study aims to inform service development by determining key components needed to reduce depression among this population by triangulating data from qualitative interviews with service users and their care providers.Design/methodology/approachPre and post natal in‐depth qualitative interviews with drug users attending a specialist antenatal clinic in Melbourne, Australia, and their care providers were conducted; and an email survey of experts was undertaken. Twenty‐eight interviews were conducted and the views of ten experts were received. Data from these sources were triangulated to determine the key components of an intervention to reduce depression among perinatal drug users.FindingsThere was high concordance among data sources. Key service components identified were: case management; extended postnatal care; access to mental health services and drug treatment including relapse prevention; parenting support, and housing support. Judgmental attitudes from healthcare staff and the fear of child protection may be barriers to accessing services.Research limitations/implicationsThe study findings are limited by the small sample size.Practical implicationsServices should be enhanced in pregnancy and the early parenting years to build a service model that incorporates the key components identified in this study and supported in the literature.Originality/valueThe originality and value of this study is that it determines the key service components needed to reduce depression among perinatal drug users by triangulating their experiences and views, that of their care providers and expert opinion.
Effect of substrate structure on properties of nitrided layers formed on pure iron
Authors: Lecis N. , Vedani M. , Farè S. 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate the structure and scratch resistance properties of gas nitrided pure iron samples.Design/methodology/approachThe effects of material strain hardening and amount of grain boundaries exposed on nitriding surface were evaluated by cold rolling the starting samples to different reduction levels before gas nitriding.FindingsThe study finds that nitriding without any prior cold rolling produced a comparatively wide compound layer with a large fraction of porous zone featuring low scratch hardness values but no evidence of damage. On the contrary, cold rolling before nitriding led to a more irregular and thinner compound layer with reduced amount of porous zone and much finer nitrides in the diffusion zone. Scratch hardness was increased but failure mechanism changed by generation of conformal cracks within the track groove and the appearance of discontinuous spallation at high loads.Originality/valueOne of the issues of great industrial importance concerning nitriding of steels is the need to predict the extent of the nitrided layer in products showing small variations in microstructure or in extent of cold working due to complex manufacturing cycles. Despite the practical importance, relatively little information is available in literature about these issues. The present paper is therefore aimed at investigating the structure and mechanical properties of pure iron samples, gas nitrided with different amounts of cold working and microstructural conditions.
Utilizing technology effectively to improve Millennials' educational performance
Authors: Aviles Maria , Eastman Jacqueline K. 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss how technological tools, such as Web 2.0 and online learning management systems, can be utilized to improve Millennials' educational performance.Design/methodology/approachAn exploratory survey of Millennial business students was conducted to measure their self‐reported use and perceived effectiveness of a variety of hardware, traditional, and Web 2.0 tools.FindingsAn exploratory study of business students finds that course websites and online assessments are the technological tools they report using most often. The technology tools that business students perceive as most effective include personal computers, laptop computers, course websites, discussion groups, message boards, and online assessments.Research limitations/implicationsThis exploratory study looked only at business students' self‐report use and perceived effectiveness of technology tools. Future research is needed to examine other college students beyond business, to measure actual use and effectiveness, and to incorporate input from faculty on the use and effectiveness of technology tools.Practical implicationsIn this paper, the authors discuss how technological tools, such as Web 2.0 and online learning management systems, can be utilized to improve Millennials' educational performance. These tools can meet Millennials' need for affiliation, low ambiguity, immediate feedback and a personalized learning experience.Social implicationsThe Millennial generation is very different from the Generation X or Baby Boomer professor who is trying to effectively teach them. With a better understanding of students' perceptions, business faculties can better utilize technology to improve their Millennial students' performance while providing them with an active, engaging educational experience.Originality/valueThe focus of this paper addresses how to better utilize the technological aptitude of Millennial business students to enhance the students' educational performance and improve business faculty effectiveness.
Toward a course conversion model for distance learning: a review of best practices
Authors: D'Agustino Steven 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe current literature examining the design of effective online learning opportunities recommends an array of best practices but no agreed upon and unifying model. The purpose of this paper is to survey the existing research of effective design models for online learning in an attempt to identify best practices and present a new model.Design/methodology/approachThrough a comprehensive review of the literature, the paper identifies obstacles to developing an effective course design model for asynchronous distance education. Based upon this review, best practices are identified and a design model is recommended.FindingsThe research identifies the key components of successful course design methods and ultimately recommends a process that has eight steps which occur in three phases. The first phase, the identification phase, encourages the instructor and/or course design team to identify strategies, objectives, assessments and resources. In the second phase, design, instructors select, organize, adapt and reflect. The final phase is implementation, during which the course is taught.Practical implicationsThe recommended design model has implications for practice by providing a clear structure for design activities which are aligned with the best practices identified in the research. Instructors and/or instructional designers creating online learning opportunities now have a coherent model supported by a review of the literature.Originality/valueWhile a number of online course design models exist, no one model has emerged as pre‐eminent or most effective and efficient. The model recommended by this paper offers a unified model of courses design that synthesizes the most effective aspects of the extant models.
Psychological determinants of consumer credit: the role of attitudes
Authors: Pattarin Francesco , Cosma Stefano 
Published: November 2012

PurposeConsumer credit as a proportion of household debt has grown considerably during the last 20 years across many developed countries. A fairly extensive literature from the field of empirical psychology has provided evidence that personality factors and attitudes may influence individuals’ debt financing decisions. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the importance of attitude to credit and three main research questions are addressed. Is there any relationship between attitude and use of consumer credit? Are there any differences between the attitudes of credit users and non‐users that can be associated with motivations for using consumer credit? Does attitude towards credit affect preferences for the financing of consumption?Design/methodology/approachThe authors provide answers based on the results of an original survey of the use of consumer credit conducted on a wide sample of Italian households, which allowed the authors to asses the respondents’ attitudes towards credit and to examine them with respect to credit decisions, controlling for several socio‐economic variables.FindingsThe findings indicate that the influence of attitude on consumer credit decisions cannot be ruled out. Attitude toward credit appears to play an important role and is significantly related to motivations for using credit and to the method of choice for financing consumption.Originality/valueThis study improves on most existing research on these topics in the particularly large size and scope of the sample, and also because several studies from the psychological field lack a thorough assessment of household economic conditions and expectations.
Linking Six Sigma's critical success/hindering factors and organizational change (development)
Authors: Pinedo‐Cuenca Ruben , Gonzalez Olalla Pablo , Setijono Djoko 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to establish a link between Six Sigma and organizational change theory. Specifically, a framework that aligns Six Sigma critical success/hindering factors and the antecedents of successful organizational change process.Design/methodology/approachA theory‐derived framework containing Six Sigma's critical success and hindering factors at each stage of Lewinian change process is first proposed. Then, the framework is compared against the findings from a case study of Six Sigma improvement project in a UK, make‐to‐order, small to medium‐sized enterprise (SME).FindingsThere is a great deal of congruence (consistency) between Six Sigma's critical success factors and the antecedents of successful organizational change. Addressing people's “soft” skills (e.g. commitment, involvement, and communication) is necessary to “unfreeze” the equilibrium. The actual change and confrontation, which occur during “move” stage, requires a combination of both “software” and “hardware” of the organization (i.e. teamwork, methods/tools, organizational structure and culture). It is important for SMEs to provide resources during the “freeze” stage and justify the benefits of change, in order to sustain the change efforts.Research limitations/implicationsThis research was based on a single case of Six Sigma improvement project. However, future research will be conducted as a longitudinal study, to capture richer insights from the change process.Originality/valueThis paper offers a practical overview of how Six Sigma can be utilized as a change driver in SMEs and the enablers and barriers of success to be considered, especially during the early stage of adoption.
The development of a value improvement model for repetitive processes (VIM)
Authors: Gibbons Paul Martin , Kennedy Colin , Burgess Stuart , Godfrey Patrick 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce a value improvement model (VIM) for repetitive processes applicable to any business where people and/or plant provide a service to support the overall business objective. Arguing competitive advantage can be realised through different amalgams of productive and strategic resources, the VIM introduced focuses on aligning resource bundles and influencing factors creating efficacious, efficient and effective processes by applying Lean thinking and Six Sigma tools and techniques more holistically.Design/methodology/approachThe research methodology taken incorporated a case study approach complimented by the action research process of planning, observing and reflecting summarized as an action case study research design. The case study data examine the development of a management cycle of value improvement on an inter‐terminal shuttle transportation system within a busy international airport.FindingsThe VIM has been proven as a useful model for understanding the critical inputs and influencing factors for delivering sustainable improvements to repetitive processes in a service industry environment.Research limitations/implicationsThe research was completedin situat a single business using a single case study example to develop and test the conceptual framework. The VIM would therefore benefit from being applied in both manufacturing and service industry environments to identify other potential environmental factors influencing the repetitive processes, increasing the usefulness to other potential users.Originality/valueThis research project has developed a visual and systematic framework that enables managers to understand, assess and improve repetitive processes within their businesses. The case study example presented in the paper show how this framework can be applied to the setting up of value improvement management cycles.
Sustainable plant oil production for aviation fuels
Authors: Lüdeke‐Freund Florian , Walmsley David , Plath Mirco , Wreesmann Jan , Klein Alexandra‐Maria 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis article seeks to address aviation as an emerging biofuel consumer and to discuss sustainability issues and consequences for feedstock production concepts. Biojet fuels have been identified as a promising, readily deployable alternative to fossil‐based aviation fuels. At the same time they are highly criticised as their production may have negative social and environmental impacts. Therefore, the paper aims to identify major sustainability issues and assessment challenges and relate these to the production of biojet fuel feedstock.Design/methodology/approachTwo plant oil production concepts are presented that address the sustainability issues discussed. Both concepts are being investigated within the research project “Platform for Sustainable Aviation Fuels”. A literature‐based overview of sustainability issues and assessment challenges is provided. Additionally, conceptual insights into new plant oil production concepts are presented.FindingsThe use of biojet fuels is often hailed as a strategy for the aviation industry to become more sustainable. However, biofuels are not necessarily sustainable and their potential to reduce GHG emissions is highly debated. Several unresolved sustainability issues are identified highlighting the need for improved assessment methods. Moreover, the two concepts presented have the potential to provide sustainably grown feedstock, but further empirical research is needed.Originality/valueThis article addresses researchers and practitioners by providing an overview of sustainability issues and assessment challenges related to biojet fuels. Consequences are identified for two plant oil feedstock concepts: catch cropping in temperate regions and silvopastoral systems in tropical and subtropical regions.
Greenhouse gas emissions reporting and assurance: reflections on the current state
Authors: Martinov‐Bennie Nonna 
Published: November 2012

PurposeGlobal climate change has become a major societal issue providing the impetus for governments to legislate policy in order to manage and mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To assess whether the use of biomass can reduce GHG emissions requires accounting, reporting and assurance methods and procedures. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate key challenges of GHG reporting and assurance with the example of the Australian framework.Design/methodology/approachThis viewpoint, discussing GHG emissions reporting and assurance, critically analyses some of the key issues arising in practice, including the current state of organizations' systems and controls, the changing nature of governance structures as well as measurement challenges being experienced by companies regarding GHG reporting.FindingsThe paper finds that more rigorous governance frameworks and management systems are likely to evolve around GHG reporting given the recent introduction of the carbon pricing mechanism and its nexus to companies' financial performance as well as increased risks associated with inaccurate reporting.Practical implicationsThe paper contains an overview of the current regulatory environment and key issues surrounding GHG reporting and assurance.Originality/valueThe management of GHG‐related issues has significant implications for organisations. The paper provides both practitioner and academic perspectives on the current issues and challenges within the GHG reporting context.
Joint music therapy and occupational therapy sensory sessions with “Fran”: “Sensing the seasons”
Authors: Turner Sue , Tyas Rosanne 
Published: November 2012

PurposeThis article aims to describe a joint collaboration between an occupational therapist and music therapist at the Royal Hospital for Neuro‐disability in Putney, London, UK. It outlines a series of sessions with a patient with hypoxic brain injury who was referred to the neuro‐behavioural unit for rehabilitation.Design/methodology/approachThe joint work commenced due to a realisation that this particular patient responded well to sensory input and the music and occupational therapist wanted to offer the opportunity to explore this intervention further within a different framework of joint sessions. The article provides an overview of this input, which involved bi‐monthly hour long sessions exploring responses to and engagement with various stimuli within a frame of music, poems and storyline along the themes of the seasons. This ran in conjunction with other rehabilitation sessions on the unit.FindingsThe authors found that the patient responded to this format with the focus being on the creative framework and the interaction between the therapists and minimal pressure to achieve tasks. Of course there were still clear clinical goals and there was participation from the patient in order to improve functional abilities.Originality/valueThe overriding improvements in the patient from using this therapy approach were an increase in concentration span and attention and reduction in vocal distress and behavioural agitation. The authors surmise that there is a place for a package of sensorial input with suggestions for implementation which could be used for other patients in neuro‐rehabilitation in this setting or elsewhere.