bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GaN‐on‐silicon high electron mobility transistors with blocking voltage of 3 kV
Authors: Herbecq N. , Roch‐Jeune I. , Linge A. , Grimbert B. , Zegaoui M. , Medjdoub F.
Published: September 2015

A three‐terminal breakdown voltage over 3 kV is reported on AlGaN/GaN high‐electron‐mobility transistors (HEMTs) grown on silicon (Si) (111) substrate with a buffer thickness of 5.5 µm. The breakdown voltage of the 1.5 × 50 μm2 devices has been improved by more than 200% by applying a local substrate removal all around the drain of the transistors in order to suppress the parasitic substrate conduction phenomenon. This establishes a new record breakdown voltage for GaN‐on‐silicon lateral power devices while maintaining a low specific on‐resistance of about 10 mΩ · cm2.
Modular baseband pulse generator for impulse‐radio ultra‐wideband transmitter
Authors: Barraj I. , Trabelsi H. , Rahajandraibe W. , Masmoudi M.
Published: September 2015

A new concept of burst generator architecture dedicated to impulse‐radio ultra‐wideband wireless communication systems is presented. Bursts are generated by using four elementary baseband pulse generators operating in parallel. Thus, the resulting waveform is the amplitude and phase addition of time‐overlapped pulses. The circuit has been implemented in 65 nm CMOS technology under a 1.2 V supply voltage. Simulation results are presented exhibiting a power consumption of 7.24 mW.
Super class‐AB bulk‐driven OTAs with improved slew rate
Authors: Zhao Xiao , Zhang Qisheng , Deng Ming
Published: September 2015

A super class‐AB bulk‐driven (BD) operational transconductance amplifier (OTA) with improved slew rate (SR) is presented. The proposed OTA utilises bulk flipped voltage follower for the BD input stage and a nonlinear current mirror for the active load to enhance the SR of conventional BD counterpart. Both the traditional and the proposed OTA, have been simulated on the UMC 180 nm process, and results show that the proposed BD OTA achieves a 350% SR enhancement with only 25% increased power dissipation compared with the conventional one.
Integral non‐local means algorithm for image noise suppression
Authors: Cheng Chung‐Chih , Cheng Fan‐Chieh , Huang Shih‐Chia , Chen Bo‐Hao
Published: September 2015

The non‐local means (NLM) algorithm computes the weighted average of the difference between two local patches centred at each neighbour and the centred pixel, which is adapted for the adaptive mean filter of noise suppression. However, computation of the weighted average of the local patch difference is very time consuming. To solve this problem, a fast weighted average computation using an integral image for the NLM, called integral NLM (INLM), is proposed. The performance of the INLM algorithm is estimated and the experimental results show that the outcomes of INLM are totally the same as those by the classical NLM, while the running time is reduced significantly.
Compact tri to dual passband switchable bandpass filter using stub‐loaded split‐ring resonator with improved bandwidth
Authors: Kumar N. , Singh Y.K.
Published: September 2015

Stub‐loaded split‐ring resonators (SRRs) are presented for the design of a compact tri‐ to dual‐band bandpass filter (BPF). The length of the two concentric split‐rings having splits on the opposite sides, the gap between the two concentric split‐rings and the length of the stub determine the positions of the three passbands. Switchability has been achieved by controlling the closing and opening of the inner ring of the SRRs using pin diodes. The responses of the BPF depend upon the condition of the switch. Moreover, lumped coupling capacitors are connected between the two SRRs to enhance the bandwidths of the passbands of the BPF. It also permit a greater coupling‐gap between the SRRs which further reduces the challenges of fabrication.
Lattice parameter engineering for III–V long wave infrared photonics
Authors: Belenky G. , Lin Y. , Shterengas L. , Donetsky D. , Kipshidze G. , Suchalkin S.
Published: September 2015

The design and fabrication of metamorphic periodic heterostructures containing InAsSb layers with controllable modulated Sb composition and well‐regulated band alignments are reported. The bandgap energy of ordered alloy can be much smaller than that in bulk InAsSb with any Sb content. The modulation period is determined by the thicknesses of the strain compensated InAsSbx/InAsSby pairs grown on a virtual GaInzSb substrate with a given lattice constant. The experiment shows that the deviation of the modulation period from ∼2.3 to ∼5.5 nm leads to the shift of the maximum of 20 K photoluminescence from 12.9 to 19.6 µm. It is concluded that the growth of strain compensated InAsSbx/InAsSby on virtual substrates allows developing narrow bandgap III–V materials with various bandgap energies.
Non‐isolated high step‐up DC–DC converter based on coupled inductor with reduced voltage stress
Authors: Khalilzadeh Mohammad , Abbaszadeh Karim
Published: September 2015

In this study, a novel topology for high step‐up DC–DC converters is proposed based on coupled inductors. The proposed converter has many features, such as high conversion ratio, recycling the leakage energy of the coupled inductor, minimisation of voltage stress of components, simplicity of control and high efficiency. An optimisation process is employed to optimise coupled inductor turn ratios which minimise voltage stresses of the diodes and the switch. Minimisation of the switch voltage stress results in the use of switch with smaller on‐resistance and improvement in the overall efficiency. The operation principles and steady‐state analysis of continuous, discontinuous and boundary conduction modes are discussed in detail. The performance of the proposed converter is compared with the similar converters and it is concluded that new topology has considerable advantages over them. The simulation results verify the performance of the proposed circuit. A 250 W prototype with 400 V output voltage is implemented and the experimental results are in a good agreement with the simulation results.
Effect of an energy supplementation, weaning and oestrous synchronisation on ovarian activity and ovulation in early postpartum primiparous Bos indicus cows raised in the tropics of Costa Rica
Authors: Galindo J. , Estrada S. , Galina C. S. , Molina R. , Contreras D. A. , Maquivar M.
Published: September 2015

To evaluate the effect of an energy supplementation, 26 postpartum Bos indicus cows were assigned either to receive an energy diet supplementation (n = 11, SSD) or no supplementation (n = 15, NSSD). Cows in the SSD treatment received a diet consisting of 5.5% crude protein, 2.85 Mcal digestible energy per head per day, at 1% ratio of the average bodyweight, started 23.5 ± 3.4 days after calving and continued for 44 days. In contrast, NSSD cows were grazing only native pastures during the experiment. All cows were synchronised at 65 days postpartum with a subcutaneous progestin ear implant (Norgestomet) for 9 days and an injection of oestradiol valerate and Norgestomet at the same time as implant placement. A random sample of six animals from each treatment was scanned with ultrasound every 6 h and the dominant follicle (s) was measured until ovulation occurred or after 114 h. The nadir of body condition score for the NSSD was observed at 37.5 ± 3.4 days postpartum, while SSD was at 22.3 ± 7.9 days (P < 0.01); no differences (P > 0.05) in dorsal backfat thickness or average bodyweight between treatments were observed. During the ultrasound-scanning period, four of six cows ovulated in the SSD treatment and five of six in the NSSD. No difference (P > 0.05) was observed at the time of ovulation after progestin implant withdrawal (55.8 ± 7.8 h in NSSD vs 94.5 ± 21.7 h in SSD). The largest follicle diameter at the beginning of the scanning was in SSD treatment (7.25 ± 1.4 mm in SSD vs 5.0 ± 0.8 mm in NSSD), whereas at the time of ovulation, it was similar (15.2 ± 1.8 mm in SSD vs 11.0 ± 1.4 mm in NSSD) between the treatments (P > 0.05). The resumption of ovarian activity was similar between SSD (69 ± 20.7 days, ranging from 42 to 83 days) and NSSD (69.8 ± 6.4 days, ranging from 59 to 73 days). The length of postpartum anoestrus was influenced by the onset of the nadir of body condition score. Energy diet supplementation did not influence the onset of ovarian activity.
Recovery of treeless subalpine vegetation in Kosciuszko National Park after the landscape-scale fire of 2003
Authors: McDougall K. L. , Walsh N. G. , Wright G. T.
Published: September 2015

The vegetation of fire-prone landscapes is influenced by the frequency, severity, seasonality, return interval and stochastic patterning of fire as well as the responses of its component species. An expected increase in fire frequency and severity in association with global warming may result in compositional changes within, and spatial reorganisation of, plant communities; indeed, some plant communities may even face extinction. Vegetation dominated by fire-sensitive species may be most vulnerable to change in fire frequency. A landscape-scale fire in Kosciuszko National Park in 2003 provided an opportunity to compare recovery in vegetation dominated by resprouters and fire-sensitive, obligate seeders. We hypothesised that if plant assemblages had failed to recover after 10 years in terms of species richness and cover they would have been dominated by seeder species pre-fire. After 10 years, two of the six vegetation types investigated had recovered and these were indeed dominated by resprouter species. Two groundwater-dependent vegetation types (one resprouter-dominated and one dominated by fire-sensitive species) were close to recovery. However, the other two types, non-groundwater-dependent shrublands dominated by both seeder and resprouter species, were still far from recovery at that time, with shrub cover reduced and grass cover increased. The likelihood of recovery after 10 years therefore does not appear to be solely a consequence of the regeneration strategies of the dominant species. Post-fire environmental factors (e.g. grazing, disease, climate) may be just as important as regeneration strategies in determining recovery time. Because not all vegetation had recovered after 10 years, prediction of minimum tolerable fire intervals at a landscape scale is impossible at this time. Future fire management needs to be adaptive, taking into account post-fire influences, rather than prescriptive.
The significance of image compression in plant phenotyping applications
Authors: Minervini Massimo , Scharr Hanno , Tsaftaris Sotirios A.
Published: September 2015

We are currently witnessing an increasingly higher throughput in image-based plant phenotyping experiments. The majority of imaging data are collected using complex automated procedures and are then post-processed to extract phenotyping-related information. In this article, we show that the image compression used in such procedures may compromise phenotyping results and this needs to be taken into account. We use three illuminating proof-of-concept experiments that demonstrate that compression (especially in the most common lossy JPEG form) affects measurements of plant traits and the errors introduced can be high. We also systematically explore how compression affects measurement fidelity, quantified as effects on image quality, as well as errors in extracted plant visual traits. To do so, we evaluate a variety of image-based phenotyping scenarios, including size and colour of shoots, leaf and root growth. To show that even visual impressions can be used to assess compression effects, we use root system images as examples. Overall, we find that compression has a considerable effect on several types of analyses (albeit visual or quantitative) and that proper care is necessary to ensure that this choice does not affect biological findings. In order to avoid or at least minimise introduced measurement errors, for each scenario, we derive recommendations and provide guidelines on how to identify suitable compression options in practice. We also find that certain compression choices can offer beneficial returns in terms of reducing the amount of data storage without compromising phenotyping results. This may enable even higher throughput experiments in the future.
Surviving under pressure and protection: a review of the biology, ecology and population status of the highly vulnerable grouper Epinephelus daemelii
Authors: Francis Malcolm P. , Harasti David , Malcolm Hamish A.
Published: September 2015

Epinephelus daemelii is a threatened serranid grouper species that is restricted to the south-western Pacific Ocean, ranging from eastern Australia to northern New Zealand and the Kermadec Islands. Declines in its abundance due to fishing pressure were reported as early as 1916. Aspects of this species’ biology and behaviour that make it vulnerable include its longevity, late age at maturity, protogynous hermaphroditism, territoriality and limited shallow reef habitat. Adults prefer complex habitat with caves and overhangs at depths of less than 50m, whereas juveniles live in rock pools, shallow intertidal reefs and estuaries. Epinephelus daemelii lives at least 65 years and reaches 170-cm total length. Individuals change sex from female to male at ~100–110cm and ~25 years. Absence of large (>100cm) fish across a large part of their range has implications for reproduction. Although nearly fully protected, incidental bycatch still occurs. A lack of long-term data hinders determination of population status, but abundance appears to be much lower than before, except in remote regions (Kermadec Islands, Elizabeth and Middleton reefs) with extensive no-fishing areas. Further prohibitions on fishing in key locations are likely to be important for the recovery and long-term survival of this species.
Aerobic training alone or combined with strength training affects fitness in elderly: Randomized trial
Authors: Burich Rasmus , Teljigović Sanel , Boyle Eleanor , Sjøgaard Gisela
Published: September 2015

Purpose: To investigate if combined strength and aerobic training can enhance aerobic capacity in the elderly to a similar extent as aerobic training alone when training duration is matched. Methods: Elderly men and women (age 63.2 ± 4.7) were randomized into two intervention groups: an aerobic group (AG, n = 17) and a combined group (CG, n = 16). Subjects trained 40 minutes three times a week for 12 weeks. Both groups trained 20 minutes at 65% of heart rate reserve on ergometer cycles followed by another 20 minutes on the ergometer cycles for AG and 20‐minute strength training for the lower body for CG. The primary outcome was VO2max. Secondary outcomes were maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) in isometric knee extension, 1 repetition maximum in three leg exercises, body fat, waist‐to‐hip ratio, blood pressure and score on the Health Survey Short Form 36 (SF‐36). Results: Both groups improved VO2max (p < .01) and MVC (p < .001). VO2max increased 17% confidence interval (CI) [7.4–26] in CG and 26% CI [14.1–38.2] in AG, with no significant difference between groups. MVC increased 22% CI [16.3–27.7] in CG and 9% CI [4.6–13.5] in AG with CG improving MVC more than AG (p < .01). CG's score on the general health dimension on the SF‐36 health survey improved more than AG's score. Conclusion: Elderly can substitute a part of their aerobic training with strength training and still improve VO2max to a clinically significant degree when strength training is performed with large muscle groups subsequently to the aerobic training. Combined training additionally improves strength and self‐assessed general health more than aerobic training alone.
Modelling drift of pelagic offspring: the importance of egg surveys in providing a realistic model initialization
Authors: Espeland Sigurd Heiberg , Albretsen Jon , Olsen Esben Moland , Bodvin Torjan
Published: September 2015

Having valid information about the location and dynamics of biological processes is important for coastal management. In this context modelling, the pelagic drift of early life stages has been shown to be an important tool for understanding the spatial scale of population dynamics in marine systems. Often simulated particles are released in hypothetical quantities at assumed spawning grounds with no or few field data to guide the model parametrization. In this study, we combine high-resolution field data and state-of-the-art oceanographic modelling and use a probabilistic approach to construct kernel density distributions of the dispersal of pelagic fish eggs. Specifically, the potential drift of pelagic offspring of cod (Gadus morhua) was investigated in a large, open fjord system in northern Norway by combining field observations of newly spawned cod eggs with simulations of particle movement using a semi-Lagrangian trajectory model with inputs from high-resolution hydrodynamic simulations. The larger part of the distribution of eggs after drift was located in the fjord, suggesting fjord scale recruitment dynamics. Finally, we also examined the drift of eggs released in a uniform distribution and found that lack of egg survey data gave an unrealistically large spread of egg particles within this fjord system.
Bacteroides caecigallinarum sp. nov., isolated from caecum of an Indonesian chicken
Authors: Saputra Sugiyono , Irisawa Tomohiro , Sakamoto Mitsuo , Kitahara Maki , Sulistiani  , Yulinery Titin , Ohkuma Moriya , Dinoto Achmad
Published: September 2015

Three strains of anaerobic Gram-stain-negative, short to longer rod-shaped bacteria isolated from the caecum of chicken in Indonesia were studied using a polyphasic taxonomic approach. These strains belonged to the genus Bacteroides, based on sequence analysis of 16S rRNA and hsp60 (groEL) genes, with similarities of 93.2–94.1 and 89.8–90.8 %, respectively, to the closest recognized species, Bacteroides coprocola JCM 17929T. Sugar fermentation and enzyme characteristics, cellular fatty acid profiles, menaquinone profiles and metabolic end products were also investigated. Furthermore, DNA–DNA hybridization studies confirmed that the three novel strains are different from the closest related species. The strains were also found to be distinct from each other on the basis of ribotype profiles. The DNA G+C contents of the three strains were 41.1–41.8 mol%. Based on phenotypic and phylogenetic characteristics, a novel species, Bacteroides caecigallinarum sp. nov., is proposed (type strain C13EG111T = LIPI12-4-Ck773T = JSAT12-4-Ck773T = InaCC B455T = NBRC 110959T).
Tenacibaculum holothuriorum sp. nov., isolated from the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus intestine
Authors: Wang Liping , Li Xiaoyi , Hu Dong , Lai Qiliang , Shao Zongze
Published: September 2015

A novel bacterial strain, designated S2-2T, was isolated from the intestine of a sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus in Xiapu, Fujian province, China. Strain S2-2T was found to be aerobic, Gram-stain-negative, pale yellow, rod-shaped, oxidase- and catalase-positive. Growth occurred at 15–36 °C (optimum, 25–32 °C), in the presence of 2–7% sea salt (w/v, optimum, 3–5%) and at pH 6–9 (optimum, pH 7.0). The isolate was able to hydrolyse gelatin, casein and DNA, but unable to degrade Tween 20, 40 and 80, starch and cellulose. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain S2-2T represented a member of the genus Tenacibaculum, with highest sequence similarity to Tenacibaculum aiptasiae a4T (96.9% similarity), followed by Tenacibaculum xiamenense WJ-1T (96.5% similarity) and showed lower similarities (93.3–95.9%) with other members of the genus Tenacibaculum. The major cellular fatty acids were summed feature 3 (comprising C16 : 1ω6c/C16 : 1ω7c, 33.8%), iso-C15 : 0 (13.7%), iso-C15 : 1G (8.6%), iso-C15 : 0 3-OH (5.3%) and C15 : 0 3-OH (5.1%). The DNA G+C content of the chromosomal DNA was determined to be 31.8 mol%. The respiratory quinone was determined to be MK-6. Phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, one unknown aminophospholipid, one unknown phospholipid, one unknown glycolipid and five unknown lipids were detected as major polar lipids. Hence, the combined genotypic and phenotypic data indicated that strain S2-2T represents a novel species of the genus Tenacibaculum, for which the name Tenacibaculum holothuriorum sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is S2-2T ( = MCCC 1A09872T = LMG 27758T).
Limits to adaptation in partially selfing species
Authors: Hartfield Matthew , Glémin Sylvain
Published: September 2015

In outcrossing populations, “Haldane’s Sieve” states that recessive beneficial alleles are less likely to fix than dominant ones, because they are less expose to selection when rare. In contrast, selfing organisms are not subject to Haldane’s Sieve and are more likely to fix recessive types than outcrossers, as selfing rapidly creates homozygotes, increasing overall selection acting on mutations. However, longer homozygous tracts in selfers also reduces the ability of recombination to create new genotypes. It is unclear how these two effects influence overall adaptation rates in partially selfing organisms. Here, we calculate the fixation probability of beneficial alleles if there is an existing selective sweep in the population. We consider both the potential loss of the second beneficial mutation if it has a weaker advantage than the first, and the possible replacement of the initial allele if the second mutant is fitter. Overall, loss of weaker adaptive alleles during a first selective sweep has a larger impact on preventing fixation of both mutations in highly selfing organisms. Furthermore, the presence of linked mutations has two opposing effects on Haldane’s Sieve. First, recessive mutants are disproportionally likely to be lost in outcrossers, so it is likelier that dominant mutations will fix. Second, with elevated rates of adaptive mutation, selective interference annuls the advantage in selfing organisms of not suffering from Haldane’s Sieve; outcrossing organisms are more able to fix weak beneficial mutations of any dominance value. Overall, weakened recombination effects can greatly limit adaptation in selfing organisms.
An investigation of antecedents and consequences of brand love in India
Authors: Garg Ruchi , Mukherjee Jaydeep , Biswas Soumendu , Kataria Aarti
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the factors that drive consumer love toward a brand and the opportunities a consumer’s love create for a brand in India.

Design/methodology/approach

– A total of 23 in-depth interviews were conducted with consumers. The interview transcripts were analyzed through thematic analysis using qualitative software Nvivo10.

Findings

– This paper proposes a conceptual model where respect, brand experience, and brand reputation have been identified as factors driving brand love and affective commitment, consumer citizenship behavior, repurchases intention, consumer forgiveness, and attitude toward the extension as outcomes of brand love.

Practical implications

– Consumers bond with brand helps in mitigating the feelings of transgressions by the brand, and also protects brand from negative word of mouth. Consumers who are in love with a brand show positive attitude toward its extensions. These results provide pointers to brand managers on how to protect and expand the business.

Originality/value

– The extant brand love research seems to be solely in the western context. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study of its kind that empirically investigates antecedents and consequences of brand love in India.
Influencing the willingness to pay for private labels: the role of branding
Authors: Thanasuta Kandapa , Metharom Pinrada
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the direct and indirect relationships between brands’ marketing activities and consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for private labels (PLs) through the effect of perceived quality in different cultural contexts. This paper also provides a broader perspective by incorporating the effect of branding strategy on such relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

– Thailand is the studied market. In all, 819 respondents evaluated two PLs through mall interception in a leading supermarket in Bangkok. A structural equation model is used to evaluate the relationships among the constructs.

Findings

– The results demonstrate that sales promotions directly and indirectly influence WTP, whereas only an indirect relationship through perceived quality exists for the similarity of PL and national-brand packaging. The strength of sales promotions and the perceived quality relationship is significantly stronger for “other-name” PL than for “own-name” one. Perceived quality contributes as the factor with the most influence on WTP.

Research limitations/implications

– PLs should continue to invest in package improvement to increase their perceived quality. The brand must carefully choose which promotional tools to implement because such tools have both positive and negative impacts. Promotions from “other-name” brands should be emphasized because they have a stronger, more positive effect on perceived quality.

Originality/value

– This paper’s contribution is its attempt to identify the reciprocal influence of WTP on PLs, which previously has been studied only as it relates to national brands. The moderating role of branding is introduced to offer insights into the influencing factors.
Exploring luxury brand country of origin impact on purchasing behaviors in India
Authors: Schultz Don , Jain Varsha
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– Luxury brands’ marketing efforts have traditionally focussed on developed nations since that has comprised the majority of consumer demand. However, double-digit growth in developing nations such as India and China, have attracted the attention of most luxury brand managers. Using cue utilization theory, the authors conducted a qualitative study in two phases comprised of first, focus group discussions (FGD), structured observations (SO) and second, In-Depth Interviews (IDI) to understand the effects of country of origin (COO) on Indian consumers’ current day purchasing behaviors with luxury products. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using cue utilization theory, the authors conducted a qualitative study in two phases comprised of first, FGD, SO and second, IDI to understand the effects of COO on Indian consumers’ current day purchasing behaviors with luxury products. A conceptual framework has been developed that should help luxury brands formulate marketing strategies for this booming market.

Findings

– Further, this study found that COO affects the exploration of luxury brands and this process is carried out digitally and primarily with friends. Luxury brand managers can insert detailed information about COO on web sites and can understand the keywords used in the search engines to facilitate consumers using appropriate consideration data. This research also found that COO is compared on the basis of quality, features and innovation.

Research limitations/implications

– The results of this study are only from one emerging country, i.e., India. Similar studies should be carried out in other emerging nations. Additionally, developed countries can also carry out comprehensive research in this domain as their behavior is also changing for COO and luxury brands.

Originality/value

– This insight can be used by the brand managers and they can develop apps and web sites that would help the consumers to compare the COO for their products. Additionally, this research found that COO helps the luxury consumers to evaluate the brands and how they associate it with consumer images. Luxury brand managers need to be conscious when their countries products/ brands have been rated low by the consumers as it could result in consumers simply discarding them from their consideration set.
Explicating consumer segmentation and brand positioning in the Islamic financial services industry
Authors: Muhamad Rusnah , Alwi Sharifah
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to discuss how the current research on the Islamic financial services industry attempts to classify its consumers and provide a fresh and critical insight into the retail Islamic banking market segmentation to harness and enhance understanding, as well as provide a guideline for a better segmentation to bank marketers.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study is conceptual in nature. Based on Qur’anic verses and previous literature, the authors aim to propose an applicable model of market segmentation for the retail Islamic banking market in Malaysia. Consumer segmentation in the conventional financial service industry is analysed, and prior studies on the selection criteria of Islamic banks are evaluated.

Findings

– In moving forward, taking cue from the classification of people in classical doctrinal and historical literature and the initial exploratory study conducted from the managerial perspective, the authors propose five cluster groups of consumers for the retail Islamic banking market in Malaysia, namely, religious conviction, religious and economic rationality, economic rationality, ethical observant and economic rationality and ethical observant. A discussion linking consumer segmentation to the branding in the retail Islamic banking market is discussed.

Research limitations/implications

– The five cluster groups of consumers for the retail Islamic banking market in Malaysia proposed in this study pave the way for embarking on promising and relevant future research, which is needed to substantiate and enrich the academic understanding and managerial practice of linking market segmentation and brand positioning for Islamic banking market in Malaysia. Future research should focus on verifying the five proposed segments by conducting empirical studies on a larger scale among the retail banking consumers in Malaysia and globally.

Practical implications

– The study provides an initial bases or dimensions of consumers of the retail Islamic banking market in Malaysia. The proposed consumers segments are useful in guiding the management of Islamic bank in Malaysia in making decisions relating to the promotion strategy as well as product and brand positioning strategy.

Originality/value

– For both academia and the Islamic banking industry, this study provides useful knowledge in strategically using market segmentation to position Islamic banking products and services in Malaysia and the global market.
Business models for product-oriented house-building companies – experience from two Swedish case studies
Authors: Lessing Jerker , Brege Staffan
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to describe and analyse the business model of product-oriented house-building companies and, hence, bridging the gap of knowledge on this topic. Product-orientation implies an alternative approach to house-building, requiring new knowledge about business models and its characteristics. The balance and fit between the main business model dimensions is specifically focused on to emphasise the importance of a holistic approach.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study is based on a case study with two leading Swedish, product-oriented house-building companies. Semi-structured interviews with company executives, document studies, site and factory visits, along with seminars at the companies are the main data sources. Theories on business models and product orientation form the theoretical foundation for the study.

Findings

– The case studies describe two successful companies that used end-customer knowledge to identify a target segment, develop an offering and sequentially increase control over the production and supply chain, with limited investments. This indicates that a market-based outside-in perspective is a successful approach to establish viable house-building concepts with a balance between the business model’s dimensions.

Practical implications

– The knowledge brought forward in this study is beneficial for practitioners that can learn about product-oriented house-building and how this must be reflected in the company’s business model to be successfully applied.

Social implications

– The study brings forward knowledge about house-building business models that can contribute to increased house-building targeted on certain customer segments. This can be beneficial in terms of decreased costs and increased volumes of new-built, high-quality homes for a variety of customers on the market.

Originality/value

– Business models for product-oriented house-building companies are a scarcely covered topic in previous research, and hence, this study provides knowledge of interest for both researchers and practitioners. The case studies reveal unique information of how two companies developed their successful concepts.
Gravitational slingshot analogy of discontinuous sustainability innovation in the construction industry
Authors: Pulkka Lauri , Junnila Seppo
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the roles and dynamics of different institutional actors in the innovation process and to demonstrate how discontinuous sustainability innovation depends on the support of a group of actors wider than the innovating consortium. The paper explores how discontinuous sustainability innovation comes about in the construction industry. More specifically, it focuses on the understudied area of low-technology innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper reports the findings of a detailed longitudinal single case study. The case in question is the K3 houses initiative: the Finnish Cultural Foundation’s attempt to point out a low-technology path to energy-efficient detached houses. The empirical data consist of semi-structured interviews and extensive archival data. A visual mapping strategy is used to structure the qualitative case analysis.

Findings

– The paper reports two main findings. First, environmentally oriented regulation can sometimes hamper sustainability innovation by encouraging a lock-in into a technological trajectory that limits opportunities for discontinuous innovation. Second, an innovation-centric rather than a firm-centric approach to discontinuous innovation can benefit both firms managing and researchers studying innovation.

Originality/value

– The paper is one of the few discussing the potential of low-technology innovation in construction for sustainable development. The introduction of the concept of change-based momentum adds a novel dynamic element to the inter-organisational models of construction innovation. Its implications for discontinuous innovation are illustrated with a gravitational slingshot analogy.
Role of social resilience in mitigating disasters
Authors: Nirupama N. , Popper T. , Quirke A.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyze a few recent earthquakes, gain insights into the role of social resilience in the severity of disaster impact and offer plausible approaches to mitigate future disaster impact. Managing and alleviating social and psychological harm among people, in the face of recurring disasters in the world, is very important.

Design/methodology/approach

– An approach of event comparison has been adopted in this paper. Three recent earthquake events, the 2012 event in Haida Gwaii, Canada, the 2010 event in Christchurch, New Zealand, and the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami have been examined through the lens of social resilience of affected population.

Findings

– Japanese people illustrated patience, tolerance and consideration for other impacted people, proving that it is an effective and efficient approach to dealing with a disaster. New Zealand’s resilience can be attributed to having a governance that is well aware of the hazards in the country. In Canada, however, as of 2001, there are barely any government-funded programs geared toward seismic risks research. Although economically, politically and technologically similar countries can easily learn from this review on resilience, it is important to recognize that there are limitations.

Originality/value

– The research provides a unique point of view into three different cases of earthquake occurred recently in developed economies. The analysis presented in the paper focuses on social resilience, governance and people’s reaction to the disaster which is vital for disaster risk reduction strategies and programs development as well as implementation.
A workplace health promotion application of the Precede-Proceed model in a regional and remote mining company in Whyalla, South Australia
Authors: Post Dannielle Kay , Daniel Mark , Misan Gary , Haren Matthew T
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– Workplace health promotion enables the dissemination of health-related information to a large portion of society and provides a vehicle for translating results of efficacy studies to effective lifestyle interventions under less controlled real-world conditions. To achieve effectiveness there needs to be a systematic approach to the design, implementation, and evaluation of workplace health promotion interventions. The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of a workplace programme in a mining and steel making town in regional South Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

– The Precede-Proceed model (PPM) was used as a framework to design the development, implementation, and evaluation of the programme.

Findings

– Quality of life issues and antecedents of modifiable behavioural and environmental factors to be targeted by interventions were identified. Relevant socio-behavioural theories were used to guide intervention development and evaluation. An intervention programme was planned to enable the delivery of educational and skills-development strategies by peers within structured organisational work units.

Originality/value

– This research utilises the PPM to develop, implement, and evaluate intervention strategies targeting the development of diabetes and cardiometabolic risk in a remotely located workplace population. Novel to this approach is the utilisation of the entire PPM in the research; the multiple baseline, interrupted time series design of the study; and its application in a workplace environment noted for increased health risk factors, within a community at high risk of development of type 2 diabetes.
Sedentary behavior and related factors among full-time, university faculty
Authors: Keenan Mary , Greer Anna Elizabeth
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– Sedentary behavior, independent of physical activity, is a risk factor for both morbidity and mortality. Little is known about factors related to sedentary behavior. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between sedentary behavior and the demographic characteristics, perceived physical activity (PA) environment, and PA behaviors of 72 full-time, university faculty members.

Design/methodology/approach

– For this cross-sectional study, data were collected online using Survey Monkey®.

Findings

– Participants spent an average of 473 and 328 minutes/weekend day in sedentary activity. There was a positive correlation between minutes spent in vigorous PA and minutes spent sedentary while watching TV (p=0.047). There was a negative correlation between minutes spent in moderate PA per week and minutes spent sedentary while playing video games (p=0.034). Participants’ perceived PA environment scores were inversely related to their minutes spent in sedentary behavior during a typical weekday (p=0.027) and positively related to their minutes spent sedentary while on their computers (p=0.022).

Originality/value

– The study is the first to highlight the large proportion of time university faculty members spend in sedentary activities and factors that could be addressed to reduce this time.
Providing weight management via the workplace
Authors: Barber Jenny , Hillier Sarah E , Middleton Geoff , Keegan Richard , Henderson Hannah , Lavin Jacquie
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to assess the feasibility and benefits of providing weight management support via the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

– Quasi-experimental design using non-random assignment to a 12-week Slimming World (SW) weight management programme, either within the workplace or at a regular community group. Weight was recorded weekly and a 39-item questionnaire focused on mental and emotional health, self-esteem, dietary habits and physical activity habits administered at baseline, 12 weeks, six and 12 months.

Findings

– In total, 243 participants enroled (workplace n=129, community n=114) with 138 completers (defined as those weighing-in at baseline and attending at least once within the last four weeks; workplace n=76, community n=62). Completers reported a mean weight change of −4.9 kg±3.4 or −5.7 per cent±3.8. Mental and emotional health scores increased (p
<
0.05) from baseline to 12 weeks. Self-worth scores increased (p
<
0.05) from baseline to 12 weeks, six and 12 months. Healthy dietary habit scores increased and unhealthy dietary habit scores decreased (p
<
0.05) from baseline to 12 weeks, six and 12 months. Healthy physical activity habit scores improved (p
<
0.05) from baseline to 12 weeks and six months. There were no significant differences between groups.

Research limitations/implications

– Participant demographic was predominantly female (94 per cent) aged 42.3 years, with only 13 men participating.

Practical implications

– The results support the use of a 12-week SW weight management programme as a credible option for employers wanting to support staff to achieve weight loss and improve psycho-social health outcomes which could lead to improvements in quality of life and work performance.

Originality/value

– Provides evidence for the delivery of weight management support via the workplace.
“I’d trust them if they understood learning disabilities” support needs of people with learning disabilities in the Criminal Justice System
Authors: Howard Ruth , Phipps Emma , Clarbour Jane , Rayner Kelly
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– People with learning disabilities (LD) often lack necessary support in navigating and coping within the Criminal Justice System (CJS). The purpose of this paper is to explore their experiences, from their own perspective, and identify the supports which need to be implemented.

Design/methodology/approach

– Focus groups were held with nine patients in a forensic LD service, discussing their experiences and support needs within the CJS. Template analysis was undertaken on the transcripts.

Findings

– Four themes were identified: negative feelings, professional attitudes, suitability of the CJS, and supports needed.

Practical implications

– This research demonstrates the valuable opinions to be obtained from offenders with LD on their experiences and needs. Implications for the CJS include a need for further awareness, training, and expertise to work effectively with people with LD. Participant perspectives also highlight the importance of consistent liaison and diversion schemes, and indicate that CJS services may have something to learn from healthcare settings.

Originality/value

– Previous knowledge of offenders with LD overlooked the perspective of the service user. This research has given this group a voice, and has benefited from their insight. This is a timely piece of research in the current landscape of the CJS, and so these findings may be of practical value to the implementation of supports, particularly the liaison and diversion schemes.
Transformational leadership and organisational commitment in manufacturing and service small to medium-sized enterprises
Authors: Mesu Jos , Sanders Karin , Riemsdijk Maarten van
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the generally positive impact of transformational leadership on organizational commitment in large organizations can be extended to small- and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in the manufacturing and service industry. The authors investigate the possible moderator effects of a participative and directive leadership style.

Design/methodology/approach

– The collected data from 588 employees who rated 93 supervisors within 35 Dutch SMEs in both manufacturing and service industry. The authors analyse the nested data by means of multilevel modelling.

Findings

– Transformational leadership, defined as visionary leadership and development stimulation, was positively related to organizational commitment for service SMEs, but not for manufacturing SMEs. While a participative leadership style did not moderate the relationship between transformational leadership and organizational commitment in either industry, a directive leadership style strengthened the relationship between transformational leadership and organizational commitment in manufacturing SMEs.

Research limitations/implications

– Leaders in the service industry SMEs should engage in transformational leadership, whereas leaders in manufacturing industry SMEs should engage in other types of leadership. Future research should examine effective leadership in manufacturing.

Practical implications

– As the results of this study suggest, a distinction should be made between manufacturing and service industry. The advice therefore needs to be twofold. Supervisors in manufacturing SMEs can best improve employees’ organizational commitment by intensifying transformational leader behaviour combined with a directive decision style. Supervisors in service SMEs do not have to combine transformational leader behaviour with a particular leader decision style, if they wish to be more effective.

Social implications

– Demonstrating transformational leader behaviour can be successful in both manufacturing and service SMEs. However, in manufacturing companies this will only be effective when combined with a directive leader decision style.

Originality/value

– Although SMEs most of the time are considered as one similar group in comparison to large organizations, the authors follow Hughes and Wood (1999; see also Stonehouse and Pemberton, 2002) who argue that because of their different products, customers, and labour it is important to disaggregate research on SMEs and differentiate between manufacturing and service SMEs.