To date, there is no universally accepted anatomical structural map of the human prefrontal cortex. Ongoing research attempts to uncover the complexities of how networks within the prefrontal cortex, and connecting the prefrontal cortex to other regions across the brain, are structured in detail. Tract tracing studies in rats have revealed that on a broad scale, prefrontal cortex connectivity is consistent with what would be expected based on other cortical regions; that it is comprised of topographically ordered reciprocal connections. However, evidence shows that when visualised on a finer scale, there is more complexity to this structure, that connections appear to move in opposing directions and follow a gradient from anterior to posterior in terms of reciprocity. Further, physiological evidence from humans indicates this gradient of connectivity is replicated on a functional level.

In this chapter, we detail common approaches to assembling the various concepts, practices and strategies explored previously. In developing an integrated, strategically aligned and psychologically engaging performance and reward system, we need to remember that nothing is ever ‘finished’, that change is the great constant, and that a ‘set and forget’ mindset is destined to fail. Accordingly, we examine the requirements for performance and reward system review, the metrics and tools available to analyse the strengths and weaknesses of current practice configurations, the steps involved in system redesign, and challenges that may be encountered along the way. Finally, we consider the importance of rehearsing and piloting the proposed changes before full rollout, as well as the basic requirements for effective implementation. As in previous chapters, we include reality checks for each of our two key integrative themes: strategic alignment and employee psychological engagement.

The fundamentals and importance of different drug delivery systems – such as diffusion-controlled drug delivery systems, water penetration-controlled drug delivery systems, chemcially controlled drug delivery systems, responsive drug delivery systems, and particulate systems – are discussed in this chapter.

Where the reason for dismissal concerns business reorganisation rather than individual fault, there is a statutory right for employees with a qualifying period of continuous service to claim redundancy payments based on the number of years of service. In some cases of economic dismissal, the reason for dismissal may not fall within the statutory concept of redundancy, but in such cases dismissal can be regarded as fair as dismissal for some other substantial reason. There is statutory protection for wages and some compensation for dismissal in the event of the employer’s insolvency. Dismissals in connection with the sale of the business or outsourcing to a different contractor are automatically unfair dismissals unless the transferor or transferee can demonstrate that the workers were dismissed for redundancy unconnected to the sale.

While employers seek numerical and functional flexibility from the workforce, the power of employers to rewrite the terms of the contract unilaterally and to offer only precarious work packages undermines job security and economic security. The law provides little protection for employees, though continuity of employment and a permanent job can sometimes be established through statutory measures. Legislation may grant employees a right to more predictable work.

Based on international standards, the EU Directive on Working Time, implemented in the Working Time Regulations, places limits on the working week, mandates rest periods each day and each week, and provides for paid annual leave. These rights are subject to various exclusions for certain types of employment, permit some opt-outs by terms in the contract of employment, and also permit collective agreements to modify the rights. The chapter considers these various matters, and concludes by examining the weak remedies provided by health and safety inspectors and some civil claims.

In this chapter, we examine pay negotiations (collective and individual) and pay communication policies (national policies and firm strategy). Pay negotiation creates substantial differences in pay across individuals, groups and organisations. We begin with an overview of the different wage-setting mechanisms that include collective bargaining, individual negotiation and legal minimum wage (such as Award wages in Australia). We then explore collective pay bargaining, starting from its main concepts and cross-national differences in the industrial relations system. Following this, we delve into the main features and major strategies of collective pay bargaining. We then examine individual pay negotiation, discussing the process of pay negotiation, factors that drive negotiation propensity, and the main strategies and tactics involved. Special attention is paid here to the role of gender in individual pay negotiation. The chapter concludes with an examination of pay transparency and pay communication, including the recent regulatory movement towards pay transparency and the strategic considerations of pay transparency policies.

Basic polymeric chemistry discussed in this chapter includes polymerization processes as well as understanding that the molecular weight of polymers is determined using different ways of calculating averages. Factors influencing polymeric properties, such as chemical elements, structure, and their physical states are also discussed. Polymers most often used as biomaterials are similar to those widely used in everyday life, and this chapter includes various types of non-degradable and degradable polymers that have been explored for a variety of applications in biomedicine.

Employees who have been dismissed may bring a claim under the common law for wrongful dismissal where the dismissal was a breach of contract. Compensation for wrongful dismissal is usually limited to compensation for a period of reasonable notice of dismissal. Statute provides minimum periods of notice that must be given. Compensation for failure to give proper notice can be avoided if the employer can demonstrate that the employee committed a repudiatory breach of contract. Claims for compensation for other kinds of breach of the terms of the contract may be available, but there can be no compensation for breach of the implied term of mutual trust and confidence in the context of dismissal. Nor can damages be obtained for breach of a contractualdisciplinary procedure; an employee can only obtain an injunction to require the employer to follow the correct procedure. In general, however, injunctions against dismissal are unavailable because of the breakdown of mutual trust and confidence between employer and employee.

This chapter provides the definition of a general ceramic as well as the classification and properties of various ceramics. Ceramics discussed include biodegradable, surface reactive, and nano-sized ceramics used in biomedical applications.

Childhood is an important time for cognitive development, during which time many factors can influence the development of complex functions like decision-making. The relationship between the HPA axis and stress reactions is of particular relevance in the development of decision-making. Fear signals activate the HPA axis, which results in cortisol production. Cortisol acts with adrenaline to form memories associated with emotional responses. This system develops early on and is dependent on exposure to stressful situations. Over activation during development, such as in cases of overexposure to stress, can result in elevated cortisol. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are understood to impact a range of cognitive function; however, the relationship between negative childhood experiences and decision-making is not a linear one; research is ongoing to unravel the complexities of this relationship.

Different natural polymers that have applications in medicine are discussed in this chapter. Classified as protein-based or polysaccharide-based, these natural materials perform diverse functions in their natural environments such as intracellular communications, providing structure, storage, and acting as catalysts. In addition to natural polymers, other natural materials such as corals are also discussed.