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Article
Publication date: 1 December 1999

M. Amann and J. Buus

65

Abstract

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 19 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

Article
Publication date: 1 April 1991

Z.‐M. Li, K.M. Dzurko and S.P. McAlister

We have developed a two‐dimensional model for quantum‐well lasers which solves, self‐consistently, the semiconductor equations together with the complex scalar wave equation and…

Abstract

We have developed a two‐dimensional model for quantum‐well lasers which solves, self‐consistently, the semiconductor equations together with the complex scalar wave equation and the photon rate equation. To predict the threshold current accurately we have included the wavelength‐ and position‐dependence of the gain and the spontaneous emission. For the complex wave equation successive over relaxation (SOR) is used with two adaptive acceleration parameters for the complex wave amplitude and for the eigenvalue. Since the rate equation near threshold can be driven into divergence during iteration for a steady state solution, we have introduced a special damping technique to overcome this problem. Our model enables us to predict the characteristics of a quantum‐well laser with a minimal number of empirical constants. The output of the model includes light‐current characteristics, and the current and optical field intensity distributions. We show the results of a calculation for a graded‐index separate‐confinement heterostructure single quantum‐well (GRIN‐SCH SQW) laser.

Details

COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, vol. 10 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0332-1649

Article
Publication date: 14 November 2008

Carlos Alberto Ferreira Fernandes

The aim of this paper is to develop simulation tools for the analysis of modified structures of distributed feedback (DFB) laser diodes adequate for single longitudinal mode (SLM…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to develop simulation tools for the analysis of modified structures of distributed feedback (DFB) laser diodes adequate for single longitudinal mode (SLM) operation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses matricial techniques: the transfer matrix method (TMM). When compared to the eigenvalue approach, the matricial techniques are more general and flexible and hence are especially adequate to deal with the analysis and structural design of DFB laser diodes. In this work, the author makes a general description of the TMM, enhancing its importance with some applications by considering the threshold and above‐threshold analysis of a modified DFB laser structure.

Findings

The increasing demands on laser performance, mainly in the area of optical communication systems, have lead to the fabrication of more‐and‐more complex structures. In viewing the development of the associated technology, the importance of the simulation tools revealed of crucial importance.

Originality/value

The simulation model used in this work has been described in other works of the author. In the present analysis a general description of the TMM was implemented, summarizing the results of previous studies for the threshold and above‐threshold regimes of modified DFB laser structures specially designed to show SLM operation.

Details

COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, vol. 27 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0332-1649

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 March 2021

Pia Vedel Ankersen, Rikke Grynderup Steffensen, Emely Ek Blæhr and Kirsten Beedholm

Life expectancy is 15–20 years shorter for individuals with than for people without mental illness. Assuming that undiagnosed and undertreated somatic conditions are significant…

Abstract

Purpose

Life expectancy is 15–20 years shorter for individuals with than for people without mental illness. Assuming that undiagnosed and undertreated somatic conditions are significant causes, the Central Denmark Region set out to implement joint psychiatric and somatic emergency departments (EDs) to support integrated psychiatric/somatic care as an effort to prolong the lifetime of individuals with mental illness. Through the lens of Normalization Process Theory, the authors examine healthcare frontline staff’s perceptions of and work with the implementation of integrated psychiatric/somatic care in the first joint-specialty ED in Denmark.

Design/methodology/approach

A single-case mixed-methods study using Normalization Process Theory (NPT) as an analytic framework to evaluate implementation of psychiatric/somatic integrated care (IC) in a joint-specialty emergency department. Data were generated from observations, qualitative interviews and questionnaires distributed to the frontline staff.

Findings

Implementation was characterized by a diffuse normalization leading to an adaption of the IC in a fuzzy alignment with existing practice. Especially, confusion among the staff regarding how somatic examination in the ED would ensure prolonged lifetime for people with mental illness was a barrier to sense-making and development of coherence among the staff. The staff questioned the accuracy of IC in the ED even though they recognized the need for better somatic care for individuals with mental illness.

Practical implications

This study highlights that a focus on outcomes (prolonging lifetime for people with mental illness and reducing stigmatization) can be counterproductive. Replacing the outcome focus with an output focus, in terms of how to develop and implement psychiatric/somatic IC with the patient perspective at the center, would probably be more productive.

Originality/value

In 2020, the Danish Health Authorities published new whole-system recommendations for emergency medicine (EM) highlighting the need for intensifying integrated intra and interorganizational care including psychiatric/somatic IC (ref). Even though this study is not conclusive, it points to subjects that can help to identify resources needed to implement psychiatric/somatic IC and to pitfalls. The authors argue that the outcome focus, prolonging the lifetime for individuals with mental illness by identifying somatic illness, was counterproductive. In accordance with the recommendations of contemporary implementation studies, the authors recommend a shift in focus from outcome to output focus; how to develop and implement psychiatric/somatic IC.

Details

Journal of Integrated Care, vol. 30 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1476-9018

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 June 1996

Henry Edward Hardy

Describes the benefits of a low‐cost digital library server using an electronic mail interface. Suggests hardware and software configurations. Outlines a hypothetical budget and…

Abstract

Describes the benefits of a low‐cost digital library server using an electronic mail interface. Suggests hardware and software configurations. Outlines a hypothetical budget and cost analysis for the first year of operation. Recommends a possible upgrade path. Suggests a “486” computer and v.34 high speed modem. Discusses the reasons for preferring the Linux adaptation of UNIX for the platform for this application. Recommends mail transport agent and outlines mail server programs available. The bibliography includes all online and printed references necessary to obtain and configure the software discussed.

Details

The Bottom Line, vol. 9 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0888-045X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 June 2016

Sian Dallimore, Katharine Christie and Maria Loades

Multidisciplinary team (MDT) clinical supervision is being used in many mental health services but at present has not received adequate attention by researchers in order to…

Abstract

Purpose

Multidisciplinary team (MDT) clinical supervision is being used in many mental health services but at present has not received adequate attention by researchers in order to generate evidence-based approaches. The purpose of this paper is to explore the utility and staff perspectives of an MDT model of clinical supervision in the form of a “Clinical Discussion Group” (CDG) on an acute inpatient mental health ward within the context of the current literature on the components of effective supervision in order to make recommendations for practice.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 12 members of staff working on the ward were interviewed to gather their perspective on attendance, helpful aspects, outcomes, unhelpful aspects, and changes. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

In total, 11 themes were identified, three within “The Group and how it operates” (attendance, discussion topics and facilitation), five within “Impact and Usefulness” (valued by staff, understanding a case, emotional benefit, learning and working together as a team) and three within “Changes to the Group” (organisation, discussion topic and group outcomes).

Originality/value

This paper explores the benefits and challenges of a CDG from the perspective of the staff who attend. It presents some recommendations for good practice which should be of use to managers and supervisors who wish to use team supervision to improve patient outcomes and also makes suggestions for future research in this field.

Details

Mental Health Review Journal, vol. 21 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1361-9322

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 October 2019

Adefemi Aka, Abubakar Danladi Isah, Chukwudum J. Eze and Owolabi Timileyin

Non-value adding activities or wastes in the lean term have been the major challenge of the construction industry. Numerous studies have been conducted to investigate how such…

1016

Abstract

Purpose

Non-value adding activities or wastes in the lean term have been the major challenge of the construction industry. Numerous studies have been conducted to investigate how such wastes can be reduced so as to improve the performance of the construction industry. However, the aspect of bricks production process (BPP) has not been extensively covered. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the application of lean manufacturing concepts in BPP with a view to identifying the various wastes in the practice, the causes of these wastes and how such wastes can be reduced.

Design/methodology/approach

Mixed methods research design was adopted by the researchers where literature review was first conducted to establish the fundamental theories and practice standards of lean manufacturing process. Thereafter, a phenomenological study was carried out in a Shelter Clay and Brick Factory located in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. The data obtained in the phenomenological study were analyzed through content analysis. These data served as the basis for the validation survey that subsequently followed the phenomenological study.

Findings

The findings in the study show that poor or inadequate supervision is the main factor responsible for wastes such as excessive drying of bricks, overheating of bricks and re-glazing of bricks in Nigerian BPP.

Research limitations/implications

The study focused on the various wastes in Nigerian BPP. It also focused on the various lean tools/techniques that can be adopted to reduce the wastes. Aspects such as the percentage of the wastes and their cost implication on the factory were not covered during the study and could be further investigated by prospective researchers.

Practical implications

The study provides knowledge on how lean thinking can be adopted to reduce wastes in BPP. Such knowledge may be beneficial to the present and prospective bricks producers. This implies that the proposed framework in the study allows producers of bricks to identify gaps in their implementation efforts, focus attention on areas that may require improvements, and access the benefits of lean approach in their factory products. The proposed framework may also be beneficial to the academics.

Originality/value

This paper first gain originality in the study context to propose for a lean framework that can be adopted to reduce wastes in BPP. Furthermore, the paper has not been previously published and all the information obtained from other sources are duly referenced.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 27 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 30 April 2021

Lakshmi Balachandran Nair

Many management scholars view templates as rigid rulebooks suffocating qualitative research. This viewpoint article recommends that, instead, templates should be viewed through…

2294

Abstract

Purpose

Many management scholars view templates as rigid rulebooks suffocating qualitative research. This viewpoint article recommends that, instead, templates should be viewed through the lens of organizational routines.

Design/methodology/approach

To facilitate this viewpoint, this article first clarifies the confusions surrounding templates. It points out that how using templates, like following routines in an organization, constitutes three parts - the artifact, the ostensive and the performative; the latter two being often neglected by template critics. The use of templates is encouraged by discussing the learning advantages for novice researchers, through an autoethnographic note narrating the author’s own research and teaching experiences.

Findings

This article deliberates upon the criticisms against templates. It then discusses templates using a perspective offered by organizational routines. Thereafter, the use of templates in qualitative management research is discussed, with the help of examples from published reports. Finally, the article explains a way of reflexively using templates through an autoethnographic note detailing the author’s own research and teaching experiences.

Originality/value

In its entirety, the article submits that the artifacts offered by the templates and the ostensive and performative engagements of the template-users must co-exist for co-creating excellent qualitative research.

Details

Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management: An International Journal, vol. 16 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-5648

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 September 2018

Eve Jonrad

The purpose of this paper is to present an evocative story “Resisting the Ban” which illustrates the ethical and pragmatic issues that nurses face when contending with smoking ban…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an evocative story “Resisting the Ban” which illustrates the ethical and pragmatic issues that nurses face when contending with smoking ban policies in inpatient psychiatric settings.

Design/methodology/approach

The creative story “Resisting the Ban” was developed based on an organisational auto-ethnographic approach. The story was crafted through employing creative writing techniques and through framing and critiquing memories via several theoretical frames.

Findings

The story illustrates how smoking ban policies have created pragmatic and ethical issues on wards. The work practices of nurses have changed as have their relationships with patients. The liberties of involuntary patients have also been infringed.

Research limitations/implications

This approach can illuminate links between acts of resistance and issues associated with public policies.

Practical implications

The effects of smoking bans need to be considered more carefully particularly in relation to their effects on workers and patients. The social meaning of the smoking bans needs closer investigation. Policy needs to be recrafted so that it better addresses the liberties of involuntary patients. Also ward nurses need to be able to carry out their roles in a manner which is consistent with their values.

Social implications

Public policies, such as smoking bans, can produce negative consequences maligning relationships, practices and cultures. Critical auto-ethnography provides a means of understanding issues that have resulted from problematic policies.

Originality/value

Scholarly work conducted on the relationship between everyday resistance in workplaces and public policies is rare. This study offers new “insider” insights into the negative effects of a smoking ban policy in psychiatric inpatient settings.

Details

Journal of Organizational Ethnography, vol. 7 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6749

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 May 2016

Stephen Swensen, Grace Gorringe, John Caviness and Dawn Peters

The purpose of this paper is: first, to present a qualitative descriptive case study of the Mayo Clinic leadership and organization development philosophy and approach; second, to…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is: first, to present a qualitative descriptive case study of the Mayo Clinic leadership and organization development philosophy and approach; second, to summarize a strategy for using intentional organization design as a foundation for culturally aligned physician leadership development and third, to describe the Mayo Clinic Leadership Model.

Design/methodology/approach

This manuscript is a qualitative descriptive case study of the Mayo Clinic leadership development philosophy and approach. The authors reviewed the organization design and leadership development programs of a leading healthcare institution. In the systematic appraisal, the authors sought to understand the key features and elements of team-based leadership development and the supporting organizational characteristics that guide development with the use of a customized institutional leadership model.

Findings

The authors identified four intentional characteristics of the multi-specialty group practice structure and culture that organically facilitate the development of leaders with the qualities required for the mission. The four characteristics are: patient-centered organizational design, collaborative leadership structure, egalitarian leader selection process and team-based development system. The authors conclude that organization culture and design are important foundations of leadership development. Leadership development cannot be separated from the context and culture of organizational design. Mayo Clinic’s organizational and governance systems are designed to develop culturally aligned leaders, build social capital, grow employee engagement, foster collaboration, nurture collegiality and engender trust. Effective organization design aligns the form and functions of the organization with leadership development and its mission.

Originality/value

This qualitative descriptive case study presentation and analysis offers a unique perspective on physician leadership and organization development in healthcare.

Details

Journal of Management Development, vol. 35 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0262-1711

Keywords

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