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1 – 10 of 11Ajith Abraham, Sonja Petrovic‐Lazarevic and Ken Coghill
This paper aims to propose a novel computational framework called EvoPOL (EVOlving POLicies) to support governmental policy analysis in restricting recruitment of smokers…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to propose a novel computational framework called EvoPOL (EVOlving POLicies) to support governmental policy analysis in restricting recruitment of smokers. EvoPOL is a fuzzy inference‐based decision support system that uses an evolutionary algorithm (EA) to optimize the if‐then rules and its parameters. The performance of the proposed method is compared with a fuzzy inference method adapted using neural network learning technique (neuro‐fuzzy).
Design/methodology/approach
EA is a population‐based adaptive method, which may be used to solve optimization problems, based on the genetic processes of biological organisms. The Takagi‐Sugeno fuzzy decision support system was developed based on three sub‐systems: fuzzification, fuzzy knowledge base (if‐then rules) and defuzzification. The fine‐tuning of the fuzzy rule base and membership function parameters is achieved by using an EA.
Findings
The proposed EvoPOL technique is simple and efficient when compared to the neuro‐fuzzy approach. However, EvoPOL attracts extra computational cost due to the population‐based hierarchical search process. When compared to neuro‐fuzzy model the error values on the test sets have improved considerably. Hence, when policy makers require more accuracy EvoPOL seems to be a good solution.
Originality/value
When policy makers require more accuracy EvoPOL seems to be a good solution. For complicated decision support systems involving more input variables, EvoPOL would be an excellent candidate for framing if‐then rules with precise decision scores that could help the government representatives as to what extent to concentrate on available social regulation measures in restricting the recruitment of smokers.
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Cristina Neesham, Charmine E.J. Härtel, Ken Coghill and James Sarros
This paper responds to the increasing concern among both the public and the academic community regarding the negative effects of for‐profit activities of organisations on…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper responds to the increasing concern among both the public and the academic community regarding the negative effects of for‐profit activities of organisations on society, in particular on human development and well‐being. It does so by aiming to examine the main theories regarding the possibility of positive and/or negative relationships between the management of for‐profit activity and human value. It aims to identify guiding principles to assist organisations in meeting the business imperative of respecting and considering their effects on human rights wherever they operate.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper takes a conceptual approach drawing from economic, social and political philosophy literature to investigate four perspectives on the relationship between the management of for‐profit activity and human value.
Findings
The need for management theory to develop a typology of factors determining positive, negative or mixed effects of for‐profit activity on human value is identified. The study identifies recommendations for management theory and practice regarding the scope and limits of action that could be taken by business organisations to improve human value.
Research limitations/implications
Research questions relevant to three key areas of management (people management, operational management and strategic management) are suggested.
Practical implications
The paper concludes that there is a need to understand why there are negative relationships between profit making and human value, and how to identify the means of minimising this relationship in a human value oriented organisation.
Social implications
The paper responds to the increasing concern among both the public and the academic community regarding the negative effects of for‐profit activities of organisations on society, in particular on human development and well‐being. It does so by proposing the guiding philosophical principles that should inform organisations in meeting the business imperative of respecting and considering their effects on human rights wherever they operate.
Originality/value
The paper is unique in proposing the guiding philosophical principles that should inform a human value oriented workplace culture and can be applied in various management sub‐disciplines. It also makes an original attempt to understand the gap between conflictualist and compatibilist paradigms and how this can inform management theory.
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Asoka F. Balasooriya, Quamrul Alam and Ken Coghill
The purpose of this paper is to explore and analyse the extent to which socio‐political obstacles have influenced the successful establishment and performance of an…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore and analyse the extent to which socio‐political obstacles have influenced the successful establishment and performance of an institutional framework to implement the privatization programme in Sri Lanka.
Design/methodology/approach
Secondary data have been extensively used in this paper to interpret, analyse and strengthen the arguments. Further, the recent data collected through semi‐structured interviews with stakeholders in the telecommunications sector in Sri Lanka have been used. The analysis has been confined to the Sri Lankan context.
Findings
This paper finds that the institutional framework, one of the preconditions necessary for successful implementation of reforms, has not been successful in the implementation due to the unsound socio‐political milieu prevailing in the country.
Research limitations/implications
This paper addresses only one aspect, i.e. the importance of a proper institutional framework. It emphasizes the need for further case studies to investigate the importance of other preconditions in developing countries.
Practical implications
The paper shows that the current analysis could be of immense value to the policy makers of both Sri Lanka and countries in South Asia.
Originality/value
The findings in this paper suggest that careful consideration of the country‐specific socio‐political conditions in developing countries should be taken, and reform measures devised accordingly.
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The following classified, descriptive list of titles is intended to provide reference librarians with a current checklist of new reference books, and is designed to…
Abstract
The following classified, descriptive list of titles is intended to provide reference librarians with a current checklist of new reference books, and is designed to supplement the RSR review column, “Recent Reference Books,” by Frances Neel Cheney. “Reference Books in Print” includes all additional books received prior to the inclusion deadline established for this issue. Appearance in this column does not preclude a later review in RSR. Publishers are urged to send a copy of all new reference books directly to RSR as soon as published, for immediate listing in “Reference Books in Print.” The prevailing policy of including all reference books received has temporarily allowed the listing of titles with imprints older than two years; with increased receipt of more current titles from a longer list of publishers, this policy will soon be discontinued (with the exception of reprints or older books newly acquired for distribution by another publisher). The column shall also occasionally include library science or other library related publications of other than a reference character.
Mohammad Reza Jalilvand, Leila Nasrolahi Vosta, Hamze Kazemi Mahyari and Javad Khazaei Pool
This paper aims to model and test the relationships between corporate social responsibility (CSR), corporate reputation (CR), word-of-mouth (WOM) behavior and customer…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to model and test the relationships between corporate social responsibility (CSR), corporate reputation (CR), word-of-mouth (WOM) behavior and customer trust (CT) within the hotel context.
Design/methodology/approach
A questionnaire survey was conducted among 300 hotel guests. Following a two-step approach, a measurement model was estimated and then a structural model was analyzed to test six proposed hypotheses.
Findings
The research results show that CSR has a direct and positive effect on CT, CR and WOM; CSR has an indirect and positive influence on CT via CR and WOM as mediating variables; CR is a significant antecedent of WOM; and CR and WOM are positively associated with CT.
Originality/value
The research examines the relationship among CSR, CR, WOM and CT, thus contributing to hospitality management literature theoretically. In addition, relevant implications are provided for managers as to how to improve CT in service industries.
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Latisha Reynolds, Samantha McClellan, Susan Finley, George Martinez and Rosalinda Hernandez Linares
This paper aims to highlight recent resources on information literacy (IL) and library instruction, providing an introductory overview and a selected annotated…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to highlight recent resources on information literacy (IL) and library instruction, providing an introductory overview and a selected annotated bibliography of publications covering all library types.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper introduces and annotates English-language periodical articles, monographs, dissertations and other materials on library instruction and IL published in 2015.
Findings
This paper provides information about each source, describes the characteristics of current scholarship and highlights sources that contain either unique or significant scholarly contributions.
Originality/value
The information may be used by librarians and interested parties as a quick reference to literature on library instruction and IL.
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Sandhya Basu and Bidisha Banerjee
The current literature on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) shows a tangled picture of its etiology and diagnosis. It directs at over-medicalization in ADHD…
Abstract
Purpose
The current literature on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) shows a tangled picture of its etiology and diagnosis. It directs at over-medicalization in ADHD cases due to the pharmaceutical-based models surrounding its treatment. Further, the authors observed the negligible reporting of India’s ADHD scenario in the reviewed literature. Thus, this study aims to explore the status of ADHD in India’s urban setting through a pilot study.
Design/methodology/approach
Social constructivist viewpoint guided this study. The authors conducted the pilot in two phases: face-to-face semi-structured qualitative interviews with 11 mental health professionals in the first phase, and, in the second phase, five mental health professionals responded to an online survey with same questions. After qualitative analysis, four major themes were identified: participants’ opinions on ADHD etiology, issues in diagnosis, social context of ADHD and alternatives to medication.
Findings
The findings highlight the need to re-visit the ADHD narrative in the Indian context. These findings also emphasize future investigation on the medicalization of ADHD in India.
Research limitations/implications
A countrywide epidemiological survey is required to explore the distribution of the disorder to standardize diagnosis and treatment procedures pan-India. This paper is an attempt to iron out the ADHD-related information that needs further exploration and research.
Originality/value
With in-depth interviews of mental health professionals, the study explores the state of ADHD in an urban setting in India. Future research must build on the current findings to establish the etiological and diagnostic framework of ADHD.
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Gabriel Cohen and Peter McGill
Teaching skills to autistic individuals can increase independence and quality of life. However, staff supporting such individuals often lack the skills needed to teach…
Abstract
Purpose
Teaching skills to autistic individuals can increase independence and quality of life. However, staff supporting such individuals often lack the skills needed to teach skills. This study evaluated the use of digital videos (DVDs) to coach three care staff in teaching tooth-brushing skills to three autistic adults with co-occurring intellectual disabilities.
Design/methodology/approach
Personalized DVDs provided guidance on key elements of teaching new skills, including graded assistance, contingent reinforcement and environmental configuration. Participants watched their DVD six times over several days. Its impact on their teaching performances was evaluated using a multiple-baseline design. Social validity was investigated by distributing a questionnaire among the participants and family members of autistic adults.
Findings
Teaching performances improved substantially following training. The coaching method was rated positively by participants and family members.
Originality/value
Video-modelling technology can be used effectively to provide an efficient, individualized and acceptable method of coaching for care staff.
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Eddie Chaplin, Amina Rawat, Bhathika Perera, Jane McCarthy, Ken Courtenay, Andrew Forrester, Susan Young, Hannah Hayward, Jess Sabet, Lisa Underwood, Richard Mills, Philip Asherson and Declan Murphy
This paper aims to examine effective diagnostic and treatment pathways for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in prison settings given the high prevalence of…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine effective diagnostic and treatment pathways for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in prison settings given the high prevalence of ADHD and comorbidities in the prison population.
Design/methodology/approach
Two studies were carried out in two separate prisons in London. Firstly, data were collected to understand the prevalence of ADHD and the comorbidities. The second study used quality improvement (QI) methodology to assess the impact of a diagnostic and treatment pathway for prisoners with ADHD.
Findings
Of the prisoners, 22.5% met the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. Nearly half of them were screened positive for autistic traits, with a higher prevalence of mental disorders among prisoners with ADHD compared to those without. The QI project led to a significant increase in the number of prisoners identified as requiring ADHD assessment but a modest increase in the number of prisoners diagnosed or treated for ADHD.
Originality/value
Despite various challenges, an ADHD diagnostic and treatment pathway was set up in a prison using adapted QI methodology. Further research is needed to explore the feasibility of routine screening for ADHD in prison and examine at a national level the effectiveness of current ADHD prison pathways.
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The present study demonstrates how browser plugins have been adopted by libraries in recent times to empower users in participatory academic and research activities. The…
Abstract
Purpose
The present study demonstrates how browser plugins have been adopted by libraries in recent times to empower users in participatory academic and research activities. The study aims to present a brief synthesis of the practical use of browser plugins in libraries and their possible future use.
Design/methodology/approach
Web-based survey method was applied in the study to search and find browser plugins associated with academic library websites and to explore their area of application.
Findings
With the descriptive account of the implementation of plugins in academic libraries, supported by numerous examples, the study presents the pertinence of various approaches as appeared on library websites.
Research limitations/implications
The present investigation is limited to the academic libraries only.
Originality/value
The good practices enumerated in the study will improve the understanding of the young library professionals about the practical usage of plugins and the steps to enhance accessibility to plugins.
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