bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An integrated approach to natural disaster management
Authors: Lin Moe Tun , Pathranarakul Pairote 
Published: July 2006

PurposeWith an aim to develop an integrated approach for effectively managing natural disasters, this paper has three research objectives. First, it provides a framework for effective natural disaster management from a public project management perspective. Second, it proposes an integrated approach for successfully and effectively managing disaster crisis. Third, it specifies a set of critical success factors for managing disaster related public projects.Design/methodology/approachA detailed case study of the tsunami was carried out to identify specific problems associated with managing natural disaster in Thailand.FindingsThe investigations reveal that the country lacked a master plan for natural disaster management including prediction, warning, mitigation and preparedness, unspecified responsible governmental authority, unclear line of authority, ineffective collaboration among institutions in different levels, lack of encouragement for participation of local and international NGOs, lack of education and knowledge for tsunami in potential disaster effected communities, and lack of information management or database system.Research limitations/implicationsThis study identifies the specific problems associated with natural disasters management based on a detailed case study of managing tsunami disaster in Thailand in 2004.Practical implicationsThe proposed integrated approach which includes both proactive and reactive strategies can be applied to managing natural disasters successfully in Thailand.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the importance of having proactive and reactive strategies for natural disaster management.
Technological emergencies expert system (TEES)
Authors: Mohamed Shaluf Ibrahim , Ahamadun Fakhru'l‐Razi 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo provide the graduate students, researchers, responsible personnel at major hazards installations (MHIs) with background on the technological emergencies, expert system (ES), and technological emergencies expert system (TEES) development.Design/methodology/approachThe design and development of an ES is achieved through six recommended phases. The assessment phase represents the problem feasibility and justifications. In TEES, the problem was identified that Malaysia has experienced several technological disasters. The process of acquiring, organizing, and studying knowledge is known as the knowledge acquisition. The qualitative and quantitative knowledge are needed to build the TEES. A general knowledge was obtained from the literature sources. The quantitative knowledge was obtained through a field survey and domain expert interview. The information, which has been obtained from the field survey through the questionnaire, was arranged and coded into software called Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Regression models were derived. The regression models were incorporated into the TEES. wxCLIPs have been used as a medium for the development the ES.FindingsIt provides the background and basis for further research in disaster management in Malaysia. The TEES can be employed to control the major hazards at the MHIs through the identification, control, and mitigation programs. The knowledge, which has been put into the system, can be modified, updated, and reproduced.Originality/valueThe TEES is versatile, portable, reliable and applicable to other emergencies applications. The system can be saved on CD and distributed to MHIs managers and related authority. The system, therefore, can contribute to improve awareness through providing information and knowledge to end‐users. The ES also can be used for classroom instructions.
Sustainable resorts: learning from the 2004 tsunami
Authors: Garcia Renato , Siu‐Yu Lau Stephen , Chau K.W. , Kanitpun Rachadaporn , Shimatsu Yoichi , Grunder Peter , Koo Rosena , Baharuddin  
Published: July 2006

PurposeGiven the extensive destruction resulting from the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami that destroyed and damaged resort complexes in southern Thailand, the purpose of this research paper is to focus on the planning of architecture of resorts in two layers: the relationship of structures and land use to the natural environment, and the identification of specific design flaws that resulted in the loss of life.Design/methodology/approachAn international collaborative effort led to site visits by our research team to the hardest‐hit resort areas of Khao Lak, Takua Pa, and Ko Phi Phi on December 29, 2004‐January 6, 2005, and in February 2005. The research team had direct contact with the adverse effects of the tsunami and gained insightful understanding on how structures and faulty architectural designs worsened the disaster and obstructed the process of saving lives. Analysis of these effects were then compiled and used to underpin subsequent proposals for resort reconstruction to minimize future destruction which may result from such calamities.FindingsClose scrutiny and subsequent analysis of various factors which magnified the destruction and damage caused by the tsunami resulted in action plan proposals for sustainable resort development aimed at avoiding a repeat of the tragedy. These include responses to site, architecture, structures, building services and landscaping. More specifically proposals were made on issues of relocation, modifications of design flaws, introduction of escape routes, safer rooms, restoration of waterways, co‐generation, tree plantation and incorporation of natural landscape.Research limitations/implicationsMost of the information and data were gathered first hand at the location mentioned. More studies are needed to reinforce and further validate the proposed measures as generally applicable in similar locations.Originality/valueAn action plan outlining measures aimed at minimizing damage from such natural disasters could provide a useful resource in future planning of resorts in tsunami prone locations.
Natural hazard mitigation in local comprehensive plans
Authors: Srivastava Rahul , Laurian Lucie 
Published: July 2006

PurposeNatural hazards such as floods, wildfires and droughts disrupt communities, their economies and environments, and cost millions every year. The existing literature on hazard mitigation shows that community resilience is best achieved when mitigation strategies are integrated with land use and comprehensive planning. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of hazard mitigation in local comprehensive plans.Design/methodology/approachThe analysis uses a new plan evaluation protocol that integrates flood, wildfire and drought mitigation to evaluate the plans of the six largest and fastest growing counties in Arizona.FindingsThe study finds that counties do not plan equally well for all hazards, that they tend to plan better for droughts than wildfires and floods, and indicates the need to improve hazard information in plans to support the adoption of mitigation goals, objectives and strategies.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is based on a small sample of comprehensive plans. It focuses on the content of plans rather than the causes that may explain this content or the implementation of the strategies included in the plans. Future research will thus need to analyze larger numbers of plans to identify the determinants of the degree to which comprehensive plans integrate hazard mitigation; and evaluate whether strategies advanced in plans are integrated with other planning documents and implemented.Practical implicationsThe paper makes recommendations to improve the plans evaluated and to guide planners as they develop or revise comprehensive plans in other jurisdictions subject to natural hazards.Originality/valueThe key methodological contribution of the paper is the new plan evaluation protocol designed to assess the wildfire, drought and flood mitigation provisions in comprehensive plans.
Strategic approach to disaster management: lessons learned from Hurricane Katrina
Authors: Banipal Kulwinder 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe aftermath of hurricane Katrina has reinforced the role of communication networks and information management in providing effective response to a large‐scale disaster. The purpose of this paper is to examine the performance of communication networks and information systems during hurricane Katrina, list causes of failure and propose design for reliable and scalable networks.Design/methodology/approachA detailed study of communication networks and information systems was undertaken in the Gulf Coast area.FindingsBreakdown of backhaul circuits, flooding of PSTN and disruption of electricity contributed to failure of communication systems. Overall wireless voice and data networks had faster recovery time and performed better than the landline networks. Absence of inter‐agency information system contributed towards delayed response.Practical implicationsDuring the reconstruction activity in Gulf Coast and to prepare strategy for disasters in future, officials will need to refocus on the design of networks and information management systems so as to improve inter‐agency communication, speed up recovery efforts and limit loss in business value.Originality/valueIt is imperative that organizations involved in the disaster recovery process have all the information they need – quickly and accurately. Quick response to disaster has the potential to significantly reduce total loss. This paper proposes integrated disaster management strategies for coordinated response to disaster.
New NICE and public health
Authors: Kelly Michael P. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis paper seeks to describe the public health guidance development activity of the new National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE).Design/methodology/approachThe paper outlines the origins of the public health guidance development work, the types of guidance in public health which NICE will produce, the methodological approach which will be used, the advisory body structure, the health economics which will inform judgements about cost‐effectiveness, the audiences for the guidance and the approach to health inequalities which will be taken.FindingsThe future recommendations which NICE will make in public health are signalled.Originality/valueThe paper provides a summary of the key processes which will be used in the production of public health guidance.
Church leaders' opinions about tobacco prevention
Authors: Reinert Bonita , Carver Vivien , Range Lillian 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo assess what volunteers‐ and ministers of faith‐based organizations (FBO) think about their own expertise in delivering a tobacco prevention initiative, the impact of such an initiative on youth, their potential for burnout in doing so, and their interest in other health initiatives.Design/methodology/approachA total of 149 volunteers and ministers attending a tobacco prevention workshop anonymously answered questions about its impact, and their own expertise, potential for burnout, and interest in other health initiatives.FindingsRespondents strongly endorsed their personal expertise and the impact of tobacco prevention on youth. On burnout, ministers were significantly lower (an average answer of “don't know”) than teachers and others (an average answer of “disagree”); on other health initiatives, ministers were significantly more interested (an average answer of “strongly”) than teachers (an average answer of “moderately”). All were significantly more positive about offering other health initiatives if they had materials than if they had money.Research limitations/implicationsMost respondents were African‐American, a higher percentage of ministers were men than among those in other positions, and all respondents came from a church that applied for, and received, a tobacco‐prevention grant – points that limit generalizability.Practical implicationsThose responsible for health initiatives would be well advised to direct their resources into developing appropriate materials rather than into paying people to deliver the programs.Originality/valueAlthough FBOs provide fertile ground for health initiatives such as tobacco prevention, ministers may be more susceptible to burnout than volunteers.
The application of household expenditure data in the development of anti‐smoking campaigns
Authors: de Meyrick Julian , Yusuf Farhat 
Published: July 2006

PurposeDespite widespread anti‐smoking campaigns, prevalence and the consequent damage to the community remains high and are therefore of concern to health educators. Several studies have identified a clear socio‐economic status gradient in smoking prevalence. One purpose of this paper is to re‐examine this gradient to assist in the more accurate targeting of anti‐smoking campaigns. Another purpose of this paper is to examine the financial cost of smoking from a household perspective and also to compare survey data with data compiled by other means to test whether smokers are accurately reporting their smoking behaviour. This can assist in the refining of anti‐smoking message strategies.Design/methodology/approachData from a large‐scale survey of Australian households – the Household Expenditure Survey – was analysed and compared with data from other sources to examine demographic correlates and self‐reported estimates of smoking behaviour.FindingsApproximately one third of households reported expenditure on tobacco. Expenditure is more prevalent among households with a female head and among lower status occupations. Young people are continuing to take up smoking. Smoking households appear to underestimate their expenditure on tobacco by more than 40 percent.Research limitations/implicationsData are drawn from households, not individuals; therefore exact estimations of smoking prevalence and individual smoking behaviour are not possible.Originality/valueThe findings provide important guidance for health educators developing anti‐smoking campaigns. The findings provide assistance in the development of targeting and message strategy guidelines.
Improving the quality of school health evaluations
Authors: St Leger Lawrence 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo highlight the challenges and identify options to improve school health evaluations.Design/methodology/approachThis editorial draws on recent international and national meta‐evaluations and the experiences of the author.FindingsA simple set of questions is needed for discussion between those commissioning evaluations and those conducting them to make school health evaluations more effective and relevant to stakeholders.Originality/valueThe paper identifies important steps which need to be considered in undertaking evaluations of school health interventions.
Health promotion and complementary medicine: the extent and future of professional collaboration and integration
Authors: Hill Faith 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo explore the professional interface between health promotion (HP) and complementary and alternative medicine.Design/methodology/approachA discussion paper, based on qualitative research involving in‐depth interviews with 52 participants from either side of the interface.FindingsThe current interface is predominantly limited to information exchange but there are innovative examples of partnership working on both sides. Key determinants of future collaboration include: the changing nature of both HP and complementary medicine; the place of science and biomedicine; the role of the individual; and perceptions of health, holism and spirituality. There is a perceived need for professional training and development in the area.Research limitations/implicationsThe discussion presented is based on a small scale, qualitative study and further research is needed to explore the issues raised.Practical implicationsOne‐third of the public in the UK now use complementary medicine and this paper explores ways in which HP may respond to this development.Originality/valueThe paper makes an important contribution to an area where there has so far been little professional debate.
Implementation and evaluation of the modified feeling great program for oncology children
Authors: Nadeane McCaffrey C. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeDesigned to reduce anxiety and boost self‐concept, The Modified Feeling Great Program (MFGP) consisted of a series of mental training exercises used to improve the quality of life for 6‐17 year old children (N=20) with cancer. More specifically, the children were taught how to relax, look for highlights (good things that happen to them), and turn‐off negative thoughts that came into their heads. This paper aims to assess the program's effectiveness.Design/methodology/approachA pre‐/post‐test design was used to determine the effectiveness of the MFGP. To participate, children had to be of school age and diagnosed with cancer during the past five years. Six questionnaires/scripts were administered to obtain pre and post information on the dependent variables: highlights, relaxation, stress control, heart rate imagery/excitement and heart rate imagery/relaxation, self concept, and anxiety. Heart rate monitors (DT1000, Polar, New York) measured the physiological effects of the MFGP relaxation component. The 37‐item Revised Children's Manifest Anxiety Scale (RCMAS) and Song and Hattie's 15‐item self‐concept scale were also used in this investigation to measure the dependent variables. All instruments had established validity and reliability.FindingsAn examination of pre‐ versus post‐test results showed that the MFGP program produced significant (0.05 level) reduction in (RCMAS) worry/over‐sensitivity, (RCMAS) social concerns/concentration, e.g. physical anxiety, highlights, exciting heart rate/imagery, and relaxation heart rate/imagery. Further statistical analysis revealed that the MFGP was equally effective for boys and girls.Research limitations/implicationsSix children were unable to do the mental training exercises on a regular basis due to ill health from chemotherapy treatments. There was no control group and sample size was small (N=20). A more robust research design should be used during future investigations.Practical implicationsTo date, most of the treatment for children with cancer is concerned with the physical aspects of the problem, i.e. the use of chemotherapy to kill cancer cells. The results of the present investigation demonstrate that greater attention needs to be given to psychological factors, e.g. anxiety, poor self‐concept and problematic interpersonal relations with parents, teachers and medical personnel. These results suggest that positive effects can be obtained by using the MFGP.Originality/valueThese results are useful for hospital personnel, parents, teachers, and other persons who provide services to children with cancer.
The impact of an educational intervention on breastfeeding
Authors: Costa Mônica M. , Diniz‐Santos Daniel R. , Santana José S. , Silva Luciana R. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeGiven the importance of education‐based approaches in stimulating breastfeeding, the paper aims to investigate the feasibility and efficacy of discussing breastfeeding with school children..Design/methodology/approachTwo workshops about breastfeeding and on the view of the human being as a mammal were carried out in schools in Brazil. Children were invited to express their views of breastfeeding based on what they had learned. Questionnaires were applied immediately before and 15 days after the workshops to assess the impact on children's knowledge.FindingsThere was on average a low level of knowledge about breastfeeding previous to the interventions. The interventions increased children's self‐perception as mammals, and managed to enhance their knowledge about several important issues regarding breastfeeding.Research limitations/implicationsThere was a fairly small number of participants and a restricted age range. More studies with other age ranges are warranted.Practical implicationsEducative interventions on breastfeeding targeting young school children can have very positive results, suggesting that school could successfully include breastfeeding.Originality/valueThis is the first study to demonstrate the impact of this innovative approach on school children's awareness on breastfeeding and it demonstrates this pedagogic approach to be effective.
Teenage sexual health needs: asking the consumers
Authors: Lester Carolyn , Allan Alexandra 
Published: July 2006

PurposeIn response to rising prevalence of sexually transmitted infection (STI) among teenagers, this study was designed to examine teenage perceptions of sex education, access to services, and attitudes relevant to STI.Design/methodology/approachA focus group study was conducted in three schools to discuss the sexual health needs of teenagers. Four single sex groups of 14‐15 year olds (two male and two female) comprising six to nine participants met for two one‐hour sessions. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed by two researchers.FindingsSex education was reported to vary considerably in quality and content both between and within schools. Participants felt that this was due to some teachers being embarrassed, resulting in didactic delivery and lack of discussion. Most participants had received very little information about STI, including how it could be avoided or what to do if infection was suspected. Many felt that it would be useful to have an organised visit to a sexual health/contraceptive clinic as part of the curriculum and that it would also be helpful if clinic staff contributed to their sex education.Research limitations/implicationsTeachers selected participants based on their maturity and willingness to take part, which may have resulted in failure to include those in greatest need of sexual health services.Practical implicationsTeenagers need more comprehensive sex education at an earlier age, delivered by individuals who are expert in the subject and comfortable in its delivery. Information alone is not enough but should be linked to accessible user‐friendly services for contraception and general sexual health.Originality/valueThis paper provides information on teenage sexual health needs in general and to the field of STI in particular.
What lies beyond the glass ceiling?
Authors: Ryan Michelle , Haslam Alex 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis year marks the 20th anniversary of the glass ceiling, but does this metaphor fully describe the experiences of women today? Recent research being conducted at the University of Exeter has identified a further barrier that women must conquer in order to succeed.Design/methodology/approachLooks at “the glass ceiling” over a 20‐year period.FindingsExtending the metaphor of the glass ceiling, we describe the phenomenon of the glass cliff whereby women are more likely to occupy risky or precarious leadership roles than are men.Originality/valueTakes the glass ceiling into the twenty‐first century. Identifies current challenges facing women now they are in the workforce.
Geert Hofstede: challenges of cultural diversity
Authors: by Sarah Powell Interview 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis article provides an interview with Geert Hofstede.Design/methodology/approachGeert Hofstede answers questions about the challenges of cultural diversity.FindingsGeert Hofstede provides views and opinions on cultural diversity.Originality/valueProvides an insightful interview with Geert Hofstede.