bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Government spending multipliers over business cycle
Authors: Nuru Naser Yenus
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the asymmetric effects of government spending shocks for South Africa over the period 1960Q1–2014Q2.

Design/methodology/approach

A threshold vector autoregressive model that allows parameters to switch according to whether a threshold variable crosses an estimated threshold is employed to address the objective of this paper. The threshold value is determined endogenously using Hansen (1996) test. Generalized impulse responses introduced by Koopet al.(1996) are used to study the effects of government spending shocks on growth depending on their size, sign and timing with respect to the economic cycle. The author also uses a Cholesky decomposition identification scheme in order to identify discretionary government spending shocks in the non-linear model.

Findings

The empirical findings support the state-dependent effects of fiscal policy. In particular, the effects of 1 or 2 standard deviations expansionary or contractionary government spending shock on output are very small both on impact and in the long run; and a bit larger in downturns but has only a very limited effect or no effect in times of expansion. This result gives support to the evidence in the recent literature that fiscal policy in developing countries is overwhelmingly procyclical.

Originality/value

It adds to the scarce empirical fiscal literature of the South African economy in particular and developing economies in general by allowing non-linearities to estimate the effect of government spending shocks over economic cycle.
Parallel algorithms for moving boundary problems by local remeshing
Authors: He Lisha , Zheng Jianjing , Zheng Yao , Chen Jianjun , Zhou Xuan , Xiao Zhoufang
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop parallel algorithms for moving boundary simulations by local remeshing and compose them to a fully parallel simulation cycle for the solution of problems with engineering interests.

Design/methodology/approach

The moving boundary problems are solved by unsteady flow computations coupled with six-degrees-of-freedom equations of rigid body motion. Parallel algorithms are developed for both computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solution and grid deformation steps. Meanwhile, a novel approach is developed for the parallelization of the local remeshing step. It inputs a distributed mesh after deformation, then marks low-quality elements to be deleted on the respective processors. After that, a parallel domain decomposition approach is used to repartition the hole mesh and then to redistribute the resulting sub-meshes onto all available processors. Then remesh individual sub-holes in parallel. Finally, the element redistribution is rebalanced.

Findings

If the CFD solver is parallelized while the remaining steps are executed in sequential, the performance bottleneck of such a simulation cycle is observed when the simulation of large-scale problem is executed. The developed parallel simulation cycle, in which all of time-consuming steps have been efficiently parallelized, could overcome these bottlenecks, in terms of both memory consumption and computing efficiency.

Originality/value

A fully parallel approach for moving boundary simulations by local remeshing is developed to solve large-scale problems. In the algorithm level, a novel parallel local remeshing algorithm is present. It repartitions distributed hole elements evenly onto all available processors and ensures the generation of a well-shaped inter-hole boundary always. Therefore, the subsequent remeshing step can fix the inter-hole boundary involves no communications.
A case study of facilities management for heritage building revitalisation
Authors: Hou Huiying , Wu Hao
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Heritage building revitalisation (HBR) is gaining its popularity to intervene historic buildings/sites for their conservation and reuse. Given that multiple stake-holding situations are often involved in HBR process, coordination or managerial problem may hinder versatile facilities design for operational efficiency while preserving the heritage values. To address the coordination challenge, this paper aims to examine the relevance and relative advantages of a FM-led revitalisation strategy for HBR, which the existing literature has not yet addressed.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts a case study approach to a major HBR project in Hong Kong. This study conducted field observations and interviews, which were combined with publicly accessible policy and project information to identify stakeholders’ opinions and specifications for the role of facilities management (FM) in HBR project process.

Findings

The paper reveals the role of FM in coordinating the HBR process for the benefits of stakeholders and general community. FM allows a balanced approach to heritage building adaptation, sound user experience and broader community effects. This enables efficient decision-making, creative facilities design and effective public engagement. FM’s strength of fitting in the urban renewal context illustrates its comparative advantage for heritage conservation and revitalisation management.

Research limitations/implications

This study develops a conceptual map to identify FM’s role in heritage building conservation and revitalisation. This will enhance process evaluation and project decision-making that are central to heritage conservation policy and HBR intervention practices.

Originality/value

This study examines relevance and advantage of FM-led business strategy for HBR, which the existing literature has not yet addressed. It discovers FM’s strategic roles and initiates a conceptual framework for evaluation of heritage conservation management.
Thermogravitational convection of Al2O3-H2O nanoliquid in a square chamber with intermittent blocks
Authors: Sheremet Mikhail A. , Öztop Hakan F. , Abu-Hamdeh Nidal
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to work on heat transfer enhancement within different engineering cavities is the major aim of most technical solutions. Such intensification can be obtained by using “smart” liquids known as nanoliquids and solid fins. Therefore, free convective thermal transmission within square nanoliquid chamber under the influence of complex fins is studied. The considered fins are the combination of wall-mounted adiabatic fin and an adiabatic block over this fin.

Design/methodology/approach

Influences of the Rayleigh number, location of the local adiabatic block and nanoparticles concentration on liquid motion and energy transport are studied. Finite difference technique was used to solve the governing equations.

Findings

It has been ascertained that the energy transport intensification can be reached for the middle position of this local block within the cavity.

Originality/value

The main originality of this work is to use intermittent block in a nanofluid filled cavity under differentially heated conditions. One constant and location of one of the passive element is constant and other one is fixed, which is the intermittent block, is used to control heat and fluid flow. Thus, distance between blocks is allowed to control of the velocity and kinetic energy. In this way, temperature distribution also can be controlled inside the square cross-sectional closed space. Another originality of the work is to use nanoparticle added main flow for this geometry. Thus, energy efficiency can be controlled via adiabatic intermittent blocks without spending any extra energy.
MHD stagnation-point flow and heat transfer past a stretching/shrinking sheet in a hybrid nanofluid with induced magnetic field
Authors: Junoh Mohamad Mustaqim , Ali Fadzilah Md , Arifin Norihan Md , Bachok Norfifah , Pop Ioan
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the steady magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) boundary layer stagnation-point flow of an incompressible, viscous and electrically conducting fluid past a stretching/shrinking sheet with the effect of induced magnetic field.

Design/methodology/approach

The governing nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed into a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations via the similarity transformations before they are solved numerically using the “bvp4c” function in MATLAB.

Findings

It is found that there exist non-unique solutions, namely, dual solutions for a certain range of the stretching/shrinking parameters. The results from the stability analysis showed that the first solution (upper branch) is stable and valid physically, while the second solution (lower branch) is unstable.

Practical implications

This problem is important in the heat transfer field such as electronic cooling, engine cooling, generator cooling, welding, nuclear system cooling, lubrication, thermal storage, solar heating, cooling and heating in buildings, biomedical, drug reduction, heat pipe, space aircrafts and ships with better efficiency than that of nanofluids applicability. The results obtained are very useful for researchers to determine which solution is physically stable, whereby, mathematically more than one solution exist.

Originality/value

The present results are new and original for the problem of MHD stagnation-point flow over a stretching/shrinking sheet in a hybrid nanofluid, with the effect of induced magnetic field.
A new method of black-box fuzzy system identification optimized by genetic algorithm and its application to predict mixture thermal properties
Authors: He Wei , Bagherzadeh Seyed Amin , Tahmasebi Mohsen , Abdollahi Ali , Bahrami Mehrdad , Moradi Rasoul , Karimipour Arash , Goodarzi Marjan , Bach Quang-Vu
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to present a black-box fuzzy system identification method coupled with genetic algorithm optimization approach to predict the mixture thermal conductivity at dissimilar temperatures and nanoparticle concentrations, in the examined domains.

Design/methodology/approach

WO3 nanoparticles are dispersed in the deionized water to produce a homogeneous mixture at various nanoparticles mass fractions of 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 and 5.0 Wt.%.

Findings

The results depicted that the models not only have satisfactory precision, but also have acceptable accuracy in dealing with non-trained input values.

Originality/value

The transmission electron microscopy is applied to measure the mean diameters, shape and morphology of the dry nanoparticles. Moreover, the stability of nanoparticles inside the water is evaluated by using zeta potential and dynamic light scattering (DLS) tests. Then, the prepared nanofluid thermal conductivity is presented at different values of temperatures and concentrations.
A first time lesson study that turned into a learning study
Authors: Klammer Simone , Hanfstingl Barbara
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an implemented lesson study (LS) in English as a second language course for 11-year-old students in the fifth grade. The aim of the research lesson was to learn how to describe a person systematically.

Design/methodology/approach

Two LS cycles in two different classes were conducted and evaluated using systematic observation, case student interviews and student feedback. The data were analysed by the involved teacher team and the mentor.

Findings

The study shows that and how LS and variation theory promotes theory-based lesson preparation and postprocessing as well as team orientation among teachers without LS experience. Second, the lesson data show how elements of variation theory lead to a significant improvement in student learning activity.

Originality/value

This paper provides insights how teachers apply a first time LS and variation theory and how this effects student learning positively.
Campus sustainability
Authors: Cho Moonhee
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Proposing an integrated model based on multiple theoretical approaches, such as the theory of planned behavior, the model of goal-directed behavior and self-determination theory, the purpose of this paper is to examine factors influencing college students’ campus recycling intention and actual recycling behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey method was used to test the proposed model with college students. A total of 434 students participated in the survey.

Findings

This study found that self-determined motivation, attitude toward recycling, perceived behavioral control and negative anticipated emotion had direct effects on campus recycling intention, while recycling intention and self-determined motivation influenced students’ actual campus recycling behavior.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the study may not be generalizable to the broader population. Respondents’ self-reported assessment of their recycling behaviors may also be a drawback of the study. However, the study provides statistical evidence testing the proposed model of campus recycling.

Practical implications

The study’s findings provide communication planners for university recycling and sustainability departments with communication and message strategies to enhance college students’ recycling behavior.

Originality/value

The study proposes a more comprehensive, tailored model that integrates other compelling theoretical models, to address college students’ sustainability engagement on campus.
Investigating the adoption of MOOCs in a developing country
Authors: Gupta Kriti Priya
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors underlying the adoption of massive open online courses (MOOCs), using technology-user-environment (TUE) framework and self-determination theory (SDT) as the theoretical frameworks.

Design/methodology/approach

The primary data were collected from the field surveys conducted in the universities and academic institutions located in National Capital Region of Delhi, India, using convenience sampling technique. Structural equation modelling was used to test the hypothesized relationships in the proposed model.

Findings

The findings indicate that the learners’ intention to adopt MOOCs is significantly influenced by intrinsic motivation, social recognition, perceived value and perceived usefulness. On the other hand, the personal readiness, self-regulation of learners and peer influence are not found to have any significant impact on MOOCs adoption intention.

Practical implications

The findings of the study will be helpful for MOOCs providers and other stakeholders. The MOOCs providers should emphasize on providing courses from renowned universities in cutting-edge areas which are self-paced and cost-effective. The academic institutions should provide credit benefits to the students in lieu of completing courses through MOOCs. Likewise, employers should also recognize the certificates awarded by MOOCs and give due credit to the learners who complete such certifications.

Originality/value

The study has contributed to the existing literature on MOOCs adoption by combining constructs from TUE and SDT. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this has been a first attempt to combine these two frameworks to study the learners’ adoption behaviour for MOOCs in Indian context. The integration of these two frameworks provides a more comprehensive model of factors with increased explanatory ability (72.6 per cent) to describe the adoption intention of MOOCs.
Reconceptualising the relationships between heritage and environment within an Earth System Science framework
Authors: Richards Jenny , Orr Scott Allan , Viles Heather
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper questions the common perception within heritage science that the environment is seen primarily as a risk factor that can change or impact heritage. The purpose of this paper is to reconceptualise the relationship between heritage and the environment within an Earth System Science framework, enabling a more sustainable approach for understanding and conserving heritage sites to be implemented.

Design/methodology/approach

To explore the relationship between heritage and the environment, this paper considers how perceptions of the environment within heritage science have been shaped in response to the conservation challenges facing movable heritage. Furthermore, as heritage encompasses a wide array of immovable buildings and sites whose relationships with the environment are complex and nuanced, this paper premises that the environment cannot be considered separately from heritage as it is intrinsically related by: providing components of heritage; modifying heritage; being modified by heritage; adding to heritage value; and acting as a co-creator of heritage.

Findings

This paper proposes that heritage science should learn from, and work within, the well-established Earth System Science framework. This enables interactions and feedbacks between heritage and components of the environment to be explored across a range of scales.

Practical implications

This systems-based approach allows heritage science to consider the environment more holistically and sustainably within its research and practice and better equips it to conserve movable and immovable heritage in the Anthropocene.

Originality/value

This paper provides a novel approach for viewing the relationship between heritage and the environment by using a well-established framework from other highly interdisciplinary fields.
Product-level profitability
Authors: Hannila Hannu , Koskinen Joni , Harkonen Janne , Haapasalo Harri
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse current challenges and to articulate the preconditions for data-driven, fact-based product portfolio management (PPM) based on commercial and technical product structures, critical business processes, corporate business IT and company data assets. Here, data assets were classified from a PPM perspective in terms of (product/customer/supplier) master data, transaction data and Internet of Things data. The study also addresses the supporting role of corporate-level data governance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study combines a literature review and qualitative analysis of empirical data collected from eight international companies of varying size.

Findings

Companies’ current inability to analyse products effectively based on existing data is surprising. The present findings identify a number of preconditions for data-driven, fact-based PPM, including mutual understanding of company products (to establish a consistent commercial and technical product structure), product classification as strategic, supportive or non-strategic (to link commercial and technical product structures with product strategy) and a holistic, corporate-level data model for adjusting the company’s business IT (to support product portfolio visualisation).

Practical implications

The findings provide a logical and empirical basis for fact-based, product-level analysis of product profitability and analysis of the product portfolio over the product life cycle, supporting a data-driven approach to the optimisation of commercial and technical product structure, business IT systems and company product strategy. As a virtual representation of reality, the company data model facilitates product visualisation. The findings are of great practical value, as they demonstrate the significance of corporate-level data assets, data governance and business-critical data for managing a company’s products and portfolio.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the existing literature by specifying the preconditions for data-driven, fact-based PPM as a basis for product-level analysis and decision making, emphasising the role of company data assets and clarifying the links between business processes, information systems and data assets for PPM.
Recovery-oriented support work: the perspective of people with lived experience
Authors: Narusson Dagmar , Wilken Jean Pierre
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on individuals who experience mental health difficulties with the services they receive from “support workers” as part of a personal recovery model, this study will obtain individuals reflections, experiences and opinions on how support helps them stay well and facilitates their personal recovery process. Recovery is seen through the lens of the CHIME framework (Connectedness–Hope–Identity–Meaning–Empowerment).

Design/methodology/approach

The sample size included 13 people who experience mental health difficulties and are receiving support from mental health care services. The structured interview was designed based on the INSPIRE measurement and the CHIME framework structure. The qualitative content analyses, discursive framing approach and CHIME as a framework made it possible to examine the key activities of recovery-oriented support work revealed in the data.

Findings

Participants valued the enhancement of hope provided by support workers and also expressed it was important as they were non-judgemental. Identity and meaning in recovery could be enhanced by sharing powerful stories about the individuals’ own life and health experiences, and those of support workers or others. Inclusive behaviour in public spaces and trying out new interest-based activities together were considered as empowering.

Originality/value

This research helps to understand the value of personal recovery support activities given the societal changes (tension between survival vs self-expression values) and highlights the need for value-based recovery-oriented education and practice.
Circular business models generation for automobile remanufacturing industry in China
Authors: Shao Jing , Huang Shuo , Lemus-Aguilar Isaac , Ünal Enes
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Although China can be considered an early adopter of the circular economy, there are few studies of remanufacturing business models (BMs) in the context of the Chinese automobile industry. The purpose of this paper is to investigate viable BMs, summarizes current obstacles and anticipates future development opportunities and directions.

Design/methodology/approach

The cross-case analysis considers the roles of value networks and of customer value proposition and interface in circular business models (CBMs) by examining the strategies and tactical measures of two leading remanufacturers. The data are collected from semi-structured interviews, documents, etc.

Findings

The analysis identifies the following components of viable BMs of remanufacturers: reclaiming raw material, managing used components, producing new products and marketing. Several current obstacles are summarized from four perspectives: policy barriers and insufficient government support; consumer awareness; related product quality; and technology. The study also identifies future directions and opportunities for the automobile parts remanufacturing industry.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the CBM literature by mapping the barriers and opportunities in remanufacturing. The results have shed some light into the field of sustainability in manufacturing firms by empirically testing the theoretical model. The results will help managers to design viable CBMs in different contexts.
Exploring mental health nursing practice in Indonesian rural area
Authors: Kadar Kusrini Semarwati , Andriani Andriani , Tandi Darmita Noria
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Mental health should be getting more attention, as mental health problems are increasing and they pose a significant health burden. Government plays an important role in supporting the implementation of mental health program. The purpose of this paper is to overview the implementation of mental health programs in North Toraja Regency, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents an audit conducted to examine the practice of mental health staff delivering mental health programs in community centers in one sub-district area in Indonesia and describes key areas of work, including promotive, preventative, curative and rehabilitation intervention. Responds from the respondents then was compared to guidelines for mental health practice in community based on Mental Health Law No. 18 (2014). The respondents were all mental health program staff (26 staff) from all community health centers (26 Puskesmas) in the North Toraja region, South Sulawesi (each Puskesmas has one staff responsible for mental health program).

Findings

This study explored programs and services provided for community mental health programs and roles of health staff in implementing programs and delivering services in one rural area. Although most health staff had provided mental health services according to the government guidelines, this study did not identify what the staff actually did in performing this work. Health staff cannot work alone in providing healthcare services, thus support from other sectors and from government is needed to deliver more effective healthcare to people with mental health disorders in the community. For further study, qualitative design is needed to explore more about the actual practice of the mental health staff in Puskesmas.

Originality/value

There is no published information regarding this topic in Indonesia to date. This information is really important for the government to evaluate the implementation of mental health program in Indonesia. However, these findings may only apply in this area, thus cannot be generalized for other regions in Indonesia, even if similar condition occurs in other areas.
Parametric investigation into the cross-sectional stress-strain behaviour, stiffness and thermal forces of steel, concrete and composite beams exposed to fire
Authors: Walls Richard , Viljoen Celeste , de Clercq Hennie
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a parametric investigation into the behaviour of steel, concrete and composite beams exposed to fire. This investigation gives insight into the structural behaviour of elements experiencing thermal and mechanical loading illustrating reasons for observed global structural behaviour, and identifying how selected design parameters influence results obtained. Non-linear heating/thermal bowing behaviour is specifically considered.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-sectional stresses and strains, resultant thermal forces, bending stiffness, axial stiffness and deflections are plotted for beams subjected to different fire regimes or input values. The impact of changes in input parameters on beam section properties is illustrated. Unusual structural responses, localised effects and general trends are identified in relation to variations in thermal gradients, concrete tensile capacity, standard fire exposure time and the assumed concrete flange widths of composite beams.

Findings

Stress-strain plots highlighting cross-sectional structural behaviour, trends in beam properties and the influence of design parameters are provided. Some counter-intuitive behaviour is explained, such as increased member stiffness being offset by increased thermal effects, leading to this parameter having negligible impact on global behaviour but a significant effect on local stresses and strains. Increased concrete strengths may lead to increased thermal deformations, whilst the inclusion of concrete tensile capacity typically has a minimal influence.

Research limitations/implications

The research focusses on cross-sectional properties, although results generated illustrate how global behaviour is affected.

Practical implications

Design engineers are made aware of how selected input values influence predicted structural response. Also, localised stress and strain behaviour relative to imposed loads and thermal effects can be identified.

Originality/value

This paper provides novel insight into the (sometimes counter-intuitive) behaviour of beams exposed to fire, highlighting trends and the influence of important input parameters on predicted response.
A continuum of transformative service exchange: insights for service and social marketers
Authors: Previte Josephine , Robertson Nichola
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Transformative service research (TSR) and social marketing share a common goal, which is to institute social change that improves individual and societal well-being. However, the mechanism via which such improved well-being results or so-called “transformation” occurs, is not well understood. The purpose of this paper is to examine the claims made in the TSR literature to identity the themes and scholarly meaning of “transformative” service exchange; ascertain the mechanisms used in service contexts to realize transformation, including to motivate long-term, sustainable societal change; and develop a transformative service exchange continuum to guide research and managerial approaches that aim to create uplifting social change. The authors recommend their continuum as a framework to inform how social marketing and service scholars design service solutions to address wicked social problems.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a qualitative study where Leximancer, a text-mining tool, is used to visualize the structure of themes and concepts that define transformative service exchanges as explained and applied in the literature. Additionally, a profiling analysis of transformation as it is discussed in the TSR literature is used to identify the mechanisms that service marketers have developed to establish current theorization of service thinking for social change. These qualitative phases of analysis then inform the development of the transformative service exchange continuum.

Findings

A scoping review identified 51 articles across 12 journals, based on this study’s selection criteria for identifying transformative service exchanges. The Leximancer analysis systematically and efficiently guided the authors’ interpretation of the large data corpus and was used in the identification of service themes. The use of text-mining software afforded a detailed lens to enrich the authors’ interpretation and clarification of six high-level concepts for inclusion on a transformative service exchange continuum.

Originality/value

This paper aims to unpack the meaning of transformative service exchange by highlighting the mechanism(s) used by researchers when designing social change outcomes. It contributes to TSR via the development of the continuum across micro, meso and macro levels. The temporal nature of transformative service exchanges is also elucidated. This continuum integrates current TSR studies and can guide future service studies in the TSR and social marketing domains.
An integrated Delphi – fuzzy logic approach for measuring supply chain resilience: an illustrative case from manufacturing industry
Authors: Kumar Siva , Anbanandam Ramesh
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Growth in a number of the supply chain (SC) disruptions threatens the enterprises globally. Earlier studies and reports say that many organizations go out of businesses within two or three years after they experience a major disruption. Therefore, companies in today’s volatile business arena need to possess the necessary resilience level to combat supply china disruptions. This is even more important for organizations of developing nations, which are constantly struggling to gain the advantages of globalization and to grab the new opportunities. Thus, this paper aims to help organizations understand their SC resilience level through a framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology comprises integrated Delphi – fuzzy logic approach in identifying formative elements of SC resilience from a diverse resilience related body of knowledge and distinguish key obstacles of SC resilience based on their performance level.

Findings

Findings reveal that SC flexibility components such as sourcing, manufacturing and logistic flexibility are the major contributors of SC resilience index of case organization. Similarly, lack of risk management culture, inter-organizational relationships, information sharing and integration of SC stakeholders are the major inhibitors of resilience. Thus, the organization needs to overcome these identified obstacles to enhance their SC resilience level.

Practical implications

Present study offers a novel focus of research on SC resilience measurement that is significant for understanding the level of immunity enterprises possess to unanticipated SC interruptions, and the ability to bounce back after an unforeseen event.

Originality/value

This paper proposes an integrated Delphi – fuzzy logic framework for measuring SC resilience. In doing so, the study identifies key potential inhibitors of SC resilience of the case company under study.
A more promising architecture? Commissioners’ perspectives on the reconfiguration of personality disorder services under the Offender Personality Disorder (OPD) pathway
Authors: Trebilcock Julie , Jarrett Manuela , Weaver Tim , Campbell Colin , Forrester Andrew , Walker Julian , Moran Paul
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the views of NHS England (NHSE) and Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) commissioners about the Offender Personality Disorder (OPD) pathway.

Design/methodology/approach

A thematic analysis of four semi-structured interviews with NHSE and HMPPS commissioners is conducted.

Findings

Commissioners offered a cautious but confident assessment of the potential effectiveness of the OPD pathway, drawing particular attention to its potential to enhance the confidence and competency of staff, offer better value for money and provide enhanced progression routes for offenders with personality disorders. Additionally, commissioners identified a number of potential risks for the pathway including wider system flux, funding availability, multi-agency working, offender engagement and the need to evidence effectiveness.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis is based on a small number of interviews. However, there are only a limited number of commissioners involved with the OPD pathway.

Practical implications

While the stronger focus on progression in the OPD pathway is a welcome departure from a narrow focus on high security Dangerous and Severe Personality Disorder (DSPD) services, the foundations of the OPD pathway ultimately lie with the DSPD programme and similar challenges are likely to follow. The system within which the pathway operates is subject to a great deal of flux and this inevitably poses significant challenges for pathway services, staff and offenders, as well as for those of us charged with its evaluation.

Originality/value

There has been limited empirical work with commissioners in the mental health field. The paper offers a unique insight into the perspectives of those responsible for commissioning the OPD pathway.
Radiation induced degradation of murexide dye in two media for possible use in dosimetric applications
Authors: Gafar Sameh Mohamed , Abdel-Kader Nehad Magdy
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of gamma-rays on murexide (Mx) dye and its possible use as radiation dosimeters in two different dosimetry systems. The first system depends on the Mx dye as a liquid dosimeter. The second dosimetry system depends also on the same dye but as in a gel form, which is more sensitive to gamma-rays.

Design/methodology/approach

The prepared Mx (solutions/gels) have a considerable two peaks at 324 and 521 nm that upon irradiation, the intensity of these peaks decreases with the increasing radiation dose.

Findings

The gamma-ray absorbed dose for these dosimeters was found to be up to 2 kGy for the solution samples and 40 Gy for the gels. Radiation chemical yield, dose response function, radiation sensitivity and before and after-irradiation stability under various conditions were discussed and studied.

Practical implications

It is expected that the radiolysis of the Mx dye can be used as radiation dosimeters in two different dosimetry systems; liquid and gel dosimeters. This can be applied in a wide range of gamma radiation practical industrial applications in water treatment, food irradiation dosimeters, radiotherapy and fresh food irradiation and seed production.

Originality/value

Both of the prepared Mx dyes, either as solutions or gel samples, can be facilely prepared from commercially, cheap, safe, available chemicals and suitable for useful applied Mx solutions and gels radiation dosimeters.
Trust: mediator between mobile money adoption and usage and financial inclusion
Authors: Okello Candiya Bongomin George , Ntayi Joseph
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Recently, a large body of research has been devoted on the role of trust in shaping different types of transactions, especially in rural financial development. Trust is a set of expectations shared by all those who engage in an exchange. Indeed, the “rule of the game” suggests that no trusting party in a transaction should act opportunistically. Consequently, this study aims to establish the mediating effect of trust in the relationship between mobile money adoption and usage and financial inclusion of MSMEs in developing countries with a specific focus on rural Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative survey-based study was used and responses obtained from 379 MSMEs located in northern Uganda were analysed using partial least square-PLS version 3.0. A semi-structured questionnaire was developed from scales and items used in previous studies referenced in internationally recognised journals to elicit responses from the MSMEs. Structural equation modelling was used to test the models to arrive at a final empirical model derived from the data.

Findings

The authors found evidence that trust enhances mobile money adoption and usage to increase the scope of financial inclusion of MSMEs in developing countries. Moreover, when individual effect was determined, trust also had significant and positive effect on financial inclusion. Thus, the study results imply that trust enhances mobile money adoption and usage to improve the level of financial inclusion of MSMEs in developing countries.

Research limitations/implications

The study used cross-sectional data to document the relationship between mobile money adoption and usage and financial inclusion and to establish the mediating effect of trust in the relationship. Future research could use relevant longitudinal data to verify other benefits of trust.

Practical implications

The results present trust as a significant factor for FINTECH financial services marketing and growth. Specifically, data privacy and effectiveness of the mobile telephone network is more likely to help consumers to bridge the gap between participation and non-participation on the mobile money platform. Customers’ data sent over the mobile network of providers should be protected from unnecessary access and usage by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) staff and unauthorised persons and agents. Data protection protocols should be set by the MNOs to avoid unnecessary access and use of customers’ data.

Originality/value

Globally, Fintech scholars have examined the role of mobile money in promoting financial inclusion. However, there is insufficient evidence on the mediating effect of trust in the relationship between mobile money adoption and usage and financial inclusion, especially among rural MSMEs. This study invents a novel direction on the importance of trust in creating transaction efficiency by eliminating opportunism and fraud with in the Fintech ecosystem.
Who’s Challenging Who?: a co-produced approach for training staff in learning disability services about challenging behaviour
Authors: Flynn Samantha , Hastings Richard P. , McNamara Rachel , Gillespie David , Randell Elizabeth , Richards Leisa , Taylor Zac
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the development, piloting and evaluation of the Who’s Challenging Who? (WCW) training intervention for social care staff to improve their empathy and attitudes towards people with learning disabilities (LD) and challenging behaviour (CB).

Design/methodology/approach

A phased approach was taken to the development and testing of the intervention. Initially, the existing literature was reviewed, the theoretical background of the intervention was developed, and then the intervention was designed. A pilot study was undertaken, followed by further development, and a large-scale randomised controlled trial (RCT).

Findings

WCW had a small positive effect on staff empathy 20 weeks after the intervention, and small to moderate effects for other staff reported outcomes (e.g. positive empowerment attitudes and positive work motivation). Being trained by people with LD and CB encouraged staff to reflect on the impact they have on the people they support. The trainers with LD valued their role, and saw benefits beyond this (e.g. friendships).

Research limitations/implications

It is possible to carry out high-quality RCT evaluations of social care practice, and research should continue to generate evidence in this way, as in healthcare settings. However, there were difficulties in retaining participants.

Practical implications

People with LD can be actively involved in the co-production and delivery of social care training.

Social implications

Employment and a fair wage can increase the confidence and empowerment of people with LD.

Originality/value

This is the first large-scale RCT of an intervention that aimed to improve empathy/change attitudes in social care staff who work with people with LD and CB.
Magnetotelluric responses of three‐dimensional conductive and magnetic anisotropic anomalies
Authors: Xiao Tiaojie , Wang Yun , Huang Xiangyu , He Guoli , Liu Jie
Published: October 2019

A magnetotelluric finite‐element modelling algorithm is developed, which is capable of handling three‐dimensional conductive and magnetic anisotropic anomalies. Different from earlier three‐dimensional magnetotelluric anisotropic modelling methods, the algorithm we presented has taken the magnetic anisotropy into consideration. The variational equations are produced by the Galerkin method and the governing equations are solved using a hexahedral vector edge finite‐element method. The accuracy of this algorithm is firstly validated by comparing its solutions with the results of finite‐difference method for a three‐dimensional conductive arbitrary anisotropic model, and then validated by comparing with analytical solutions for a one‐dimensional magnetic model. The responses of four kinds of models under different conditions are studied, and some conclusions are obtained. It shows that for materials with a high magnetic permeability, its influence on magnetotelluric responses cannot be ignored in some circumstances. Especially, if the magnetic susceptibility is exceptionally high, it may really distort the apparent resistivities of lower resistive anomalies. These conclusions are also beneficial for magnetotelluric survey.
Ecological opportunity drives individual dietary specialization in leopards
Authors: Balme Guy A. , le Roex Nikki , Rogan Matthew S. , Hunter Luke T. B.
Published: October 2019

Individual specialization, when individuals exploit only a subset of resources utilized by the population, is a widespread phenomenon. It provides the basis for evolutionary diversification and can impact population and community dynamics. Both phenotypic traits and environmental conditions are predicted to influence individual specialization; however, its adaptive consequences are poorly understood, particularly among large mammalian carnivores that play an important role in shaping ecosystems.

We used observations of 2,960 kills made by 49 leopards Panthera pardus in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa, to quantify the magnitude of individual dietary specialization in a solitary large carnivore, and to examine the proximate and ultimate drivers of this behaviour.

We found evidence of individual specialization in leopard diet, with respect to both the species and size of prey killed. Males tended to be more specialized than females, likely because they could access a wider range of prey due to larger body size. Similarly, individuals that encountered a greater diversity of prey tended to be more specialized. Our results confirmed that ecological opportunity was a key determinant of individual specialization; however, contrary to predictions, per capita resource availability (and by extension, intraspecific competition) did not affect the degree of specialization exhibited by individuals.

Surprisingly, dietary specialization appeared to disadvantage male leopards. Specialist males overlapped with fewer resident females, had fewer cubs born on their home ranges and had fewer cubs survive to independence on their home ranges than generalist males. This may have resulted from the high degree of environmental stochasticity experienced during our study, as dietary specialization is expected to advantage individuals more during periods of resource predictability.

In summary, we showed that a species usually considered to be a dietary generalist was in fact a heterogeneous collection of specialist and generalist individuals. Individual specialization is typically assumed to be maintained by disruptive and/or fluctuating selection; hence, the somewhat paradoxical coexistence of both in the same population might be explained by a dynamic evolutionary equilibrium that exists between specialists and generalists, in which each benefit under different conditions.
Wind‐associated detours promote seasonal migratory connectivity in a flapping flying long‐distance avian migrant
Authors: Norevik Gabriel , Åkesson Susanne , Artois Tom , Beenaerts Natalie , Conway Greg , Cresswell Brian , Evens Ruben , Henderson Ian , Jiguet Frédéric , Hedenström Anders
Published: October 2019

It is essential to gain knowledge about the causes and extent of migratory connectivity between stationary periods of migrants to further the understanding of processes affecting populations, and to allow efficient implementation of conservation efforts throughout the annual cycle. Avian migrants likely use optimal routes with respect to mode of locomotion, orientation and migration strategy, influenced by external factors such as wind and topography. In self‐powered flapping flying birds, any increases in fuel loads are associated with added flight costs. Energy‐minimizing migrants are therefore predicted to trade‐off extended detours against reduced travel across ecological barriers with no or limited foraging opportunities.

Here, we quantify the extent of detours taken by different populations of European nightjars Caprimulgus europaeus, to test our predictions that they used routes beneficial according to energetic principles and evaluate the effect of route shape on seasonal migratory connectivity.

We combined data on birds tracked from breeding sites along a longitudinal gradient from England to Sweden. We analysed the migratory connectivity between breeding and main non‐breeding sites, and en route stopover sites just south of the Sahara desert. We quantified each track's route extension relative to the direct route between breeding and wintering sites, respectively, and contrasted it to the potential detour derived from the barrier reduction along the track while accounting for potential wind effects.

Nightjars extended their tracks from the direct route between breeding and main non‐breeding sites as they crossed the Mediterranean Sea–Sahara desert, the major ecological barrier in the Palaearctic–African migration system. These clockwise detours were small for birds from eastern sites but increased from east to west breeding longitude. Routes of the tracked birds were associated with partial reduction in the barrier crossing resulting in a trade‐off between route extension and barrier reduction, as expected in an energy‐minimizing migrant.

This study demonstrates how the costs of barrier crossings in prevailing winds can disrupt migratory routes towards slightly different goals, and thereby promote migratory connectivity. This is an important link between individual migration strategies in association with an ecological barrier, and both spatially and demographic population patterns.