bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the antecedents of social network service fatigue: a socio-technical perspective
Authors: Xiao Lin , Mou Jian , Huang Lihua
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Despite the various benefits of social networking services (SNSs), users have begun to experience fatigue in recent years, as evidenced by a decline in active user numbers. This relatively new phenomenon has only recently received significant managerial and academic attention. The antecedents of SNS fatigue are still unclear in the literature. The purpose of this paper is to identify the key factors causing SNS fatigue, based on a socio-technical approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors empirically tested this research model with 424 SNS users via an online survey. Structural equation modeling with partial least squares was used to analyze the data.

Findings

The results showed that the social factors of social comparison, social interaction overload, social surveillance and social information overload, and the technical factor of system complexity are significantly related to SNS fatigue.

Practical implications

This research benefits SNS providers by allowing them to better understand how to effectively design social networking platforms to retain and attract more users. It also benefits users by providing guidance on how to actively manage their own behavior to avoid potential negative outcomes induced by SNS usage.

Originality/value

This study focuses on the “dark side” of SNS from the perspective of fatigue, extending existing research on technostress. It also extends the applicability of the socio-technical approach to the phenomenon of SNS fatigue. Moreover, it enriches SNS fatigue research by addressing the importance of both social and technical factors in causing SNS fatigue.
Consumers honoring veterans and businesses that support them
Authors: Edmondson Diane , Graeff Tim , Matthews Lucy , Roy Don , Srivastava Raj , Ward Cheryl
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This study aims to examine consumers’ patriotism, attitudes toward veterans and attitudes and behaviors toward businesses that honor veterans. The goal is to determine if consumers are more or less likely to support businesses that offer veterans preferential treatment.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual model proposed is tested using an online survey with a nationwide sample. Data are analyzed using partial least squares structural equations modeling.

Findings

Results indicate that consumer attitudes toward businesses that honor veterans fully mediate the impact of consumer attitudes toward veterans on behavioral intentions. This suggests that veterans’ discounts or preferential treatments are viewed as a viable means by which consumers can show their support for veterans. Further, results reveal that patriotism has a direct effect on consumers’ behavioral intentions toward businesses that honor veterans.

Practical implications

Businesses routinely offer discounts targeted to specific consumers, such as the elderly and children. These results show that providing discounts to veterans can offer multiple benefits to businesses as well. Positive attitudes toward businesses that honor veterans can lead to positive behavioral intentions from consumers who seek to support veterans.

Originality/value

Despite the existence of businesses honoring veterans by providing discounts or preferential treatment, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, little to no research has investigated the impact that these discounts provide to businesses.
Influential factors of Islamic insurance adoption: an extension of theory of planned behavior
Authors: Raza Syed Ali , Ahmed Rehan , Ali Muhammad , Qureshi Muhammad Asif
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The role of insurance is a backbone for consumers to secure their future. It is important to know where to invest and what are the benefits. Therefore, for the Muslim segment, Islamic insurance system provides Riba (interest)-free environment where consumers invest their money and recover their losses according to sharia. This paper aims to examine the determinants that influence purchase intention of consumers toward Islamic insurance (Takaful) adoption in Pakistan with the help of the modified theory of planned behavior (TPB).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors added four specific variables related to Islamic sharia compliance in the conventional form of the TPB. The relationship among the variables is assessed by using partial least squares structural equation modeling, while the data are collected from 305 respondents.

Findings

The results suggest that attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioral control are strong predictors of an Islamic insurance adoption in Pakistan. Moreover, factors such as compatibility, relative advantage and awareness have positive and significant impacts on takaful participation. A negative but insignificant relation is found between perceived risk and intention.

Practical implications

This paper provides insight for understanding the factors that lead to consumers' purchase intention of Islamic insurance.

Originality/value

This paper makes a unique contribution to the literature with reference to Pakistan, being a pioneering attempt to investigate the factors of Islamic insurance adoption by modifying the TPB and applying more rigorous statistical techniques like confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and partial least square structural equation modeling.
Decisions to consent for autopsy after stillbirth: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women's experiences
Authors: Kilcullen Meegan , Kandasamy Yogavijayan , Watson David , Cadet‐James Yvonne
Published: October 2019

Background

The stillbirth rate for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander infants is twice that for non‐Indigenous infants. Autopsy is the gold standard for fetal investigation; however, parental consent is often not given. There is little research investigating the drivers of parents’ decision‐making for autopsy after stillbirth.

Aims

The current study explored the reasons why Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women did or did not give permission to autopsy after stillbirth.

Materials and Methods

Five Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women participated in semi‐structured interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted within a phenomenological framework.

Results

Five themes were identified as reasons for giving permission – to find out why the baby died; to confirm diagnosis; to understand future risk; to help others; and doubt about maternal causes. Four themes were identified as reasons for declining permission – not asked in a sensitive manner; not enough time to think; distress about the autopsy procedure; and unwilling to agree. There was a lack of acceptability of the lengthy timeframe for the availability of autopsy results as families usually wait between three and nine months. This lengthy waiting period negatively impacted upon families’ health and wellbeing.

Conclusions

It is important for health professionals to understand the factors that parents consider when giving permission for autopsy after stillbirth. It is hoped that an increase in autopsy rate will enhance the understanding of the causes of stillbirth and ultimately decrease the stillbirth rate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.
Editorial: HBV—the naked truth?
Authors: Pasetto Anna , Ahlén Gustaf , Sällberg Matti
Published: October 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Jiang et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15381 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15452.
Letter: probiotics? Yes, but which ones? Authors’ reply
Authors: Jayakumar Saumya , Loomba Rohit
Published: October 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Jayakumar et al and De Simone papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15314 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15430.
Editorial: pressure to close the therapeutic window of non‐selective beta blockers?
Authors: Mandorfer Mattias , Reiberger Thomas
Published: October 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Tergast et al and Tergast and Maasoumy papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15439 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15489.
Letter: hepatocellular carcinoma negatively affects sustained virological response of direct‐acting anti‐viral treatment in decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: He Caini , Li Shen , Zhao Yunyu , Ji Fanpu
Published: October 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Mecci et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15296.
Letter: decreased neonatal hepatitis B virus (HBV) viremia by maternal tenofovir treatment predicts reduced chronic HBV infection in children born to highly viremic mothers
Authors: Peng Chen , Jiexin Lei , Benhong Zhou
Published: October 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Chang et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15321.
Semen quality improvement in boars fed with supplemental wolfberry (Lycium barbarum)
Authors: Yang Qiang , Xing Yuyun , Qiao Chuanmin , Liu Weiwei , Jiang Haoyun , Fu Qiang , Zhou Yu , Yang Bin , Zhang Zhiyan , Chen Rongrong
Published: October 2019

Wolfberry is well known for its health benefits in Asian countries. This study consisted of two experiments. In Experiment 1, nine boars were provided 40 g dried wolfberry per 100 kg body weight per day in addition to regular feed for 160 days (divided into 40 days phases: I, II, III, and IV) under step‐down air temperature conditions. Controls (n = 9) were fed regular feed only. Significant (p < .05 or p < .01) or slight improvements in sperm progressive motility, total abnormality rate, sperm concentration, and total sperm per ejaculate were observed in the wolfberry group during phases II and III. No differences were observed in semen volume. After combining the data from phases II ~ IV, significant improvements were detected in all aforementioned traits (p < .05 or p < .01), except semen volume. In Experiment 2, the wolfberry group (n = 5) was fed wolfberry for 90 days and exhibited significantly reduced head, tail, and total abnormality rates (p < .05 or p < .01) in both fresh semen and semen stored for 72 hr at 17°C compared to the control group (n = 5). SOD activity also significantly increased in this group of boars. Collectively, the findings of this study suggest that wolfberry has a positive effect on boar semen quality.
Impact of environmental information disclosure and real estate segments on cost of debt: Evidence from the Chinese real estate industry
Authors: Fonseka Mohan , Tian Gao‐Liang , Al Farooque Omar
Published: October 2019

The novel part of this paper is to examine the individual and joint effects of the real estate segments (RETs) and environmental information disclosure (EID) on the cost of debt (COD) in the real estate industry in China. Building on extant literature, using 1,250 firm‐year observations from 2006 to 2016 and applying both Feasible General Least Squares and Two‐stage Least Squares Instrumental Variable approaches, we provide evidence that the commercial RET leads to an increase in the COD, while EID leads to a decrease in the COD. The joint effects of the RETs and EID on the COD indicate a significantly positive relationship with the COD. This signifies that even with the increased levels of EID in commercial real estate sectors, its COD is higher than for residential real estate sectors. These findings have important policy implications for environmental risk assessments for real estate sectors, their lending institutions and wider stakeholder groups.
Bidirectional gut‐microbial mediated‐brain signaling: A new player in stress physiology? (Commentary on O’Mahony et al., 2019)
Authors: Fleshner Monika
Published: October 2019

Commentary on O'Mahony SM, McVey Neufeld K‐A, Waworuntu RV, et al. The enduring effects of early‐life stress on the microbiota–gut–brain axis are buffered by dietary supplementation with milk fat globule membrane and a prebiotic blend. Eur J Neurosci. 2020;51:1042–1058. https://doi.org/10.1111/ejn.14514
Northern European Salmo trutta (L.) populations are genetically divergent across geographical regions and environmental gradients
Authors: Bekkevold Dorte , Höjesjö Johan , Nielsen Einar Eg , Aldvén David , Als Thomas Damm , Sodeland Marte , Kent Matthew Peter , Lien Sigbjørn , Hansen Michael Møller
Published: October 2019

The salmonid fish Brown trout is iconic as a model for the application of conservation genetics to understand and manage local interspecific variation. However, there is still scant information about relationships between local and large‐scale population structure, and to what extent geographical and environmental variables are associated with barriers to gene flow. We used information from 3,782 mapped SNPs developed for the present study and conducted outlier tests and gene–environment association (GEA) analyses in order to examine drivers of population structure. Analyses comprised >2,600 fish from 72 riverine populations spanning a central part of the species' distribution in northern Europe. We report hitherto unidentified genetic breaks in population structure, indicating strong barriers to gene flow. GEA loci were widely spread across genomic regions and showed correlations with climatic, abiotic and geographical parameters. In some cases, individual loci showed consistent GEA across the geographical regions Britain, Europe and Scandinavia. In other cases, correlations were observed only within a sub‐set of regions, suggesting that locus‐specific variation was associated with local processes. A paired‐population sampling design allowed us to evaluate sampling effects on detection of outlier loci and GEA. Two widely applied methods for outlier detection (pcadapt and bayescan) showed low overlap in loci identified as statistical outliers across sub‐sets of data. Two GEA analytical approaches (LFMM and RDA) showed good correspondence concerning loci associated with specific variables, but LFMM identified five times more statistically significant associations than RDA. Our results emphasize the importance of carefully considering the statistical methods applied for the hypotheses being tested in outlier analysis. Sampling design may have lower impact on results if the objective is to identify GEA loci and their population distribution. Our study provides new insights into trout populations, and results have direct management implications in serving as a tool for identification of conservation units.
Dosing equine antimicrobials: Ensuring clinical success and avoiding antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Hardefeldt L. Y.
Published: October 2019

Underdosing of equine antimicrobials is a global issue and may be contributing to antimicrobial resistance in horses. Recent research in Australia has identified that most antimicrobial use in peer‐reviewed literature is at a higher dose than that currently on the label for many common equine antimicrobials in the United States, the UK and Australia. These dosing regimens used are now considered the most appropriate doses to be using in horses and veterinarians treating equine patients should be aware of the contemporary dosing regimens.
Pre‐requisites, barriers and advantages of clinical informationist participation in grand round: a qualitative study
Authors: Zare‐Farashbandi Elahe , Zare‐Farashbandi Firoozeh , Adibi Peyman , Rahimi Alireza
Published: October 2019

Background

Clinical specialists require access to the most recent and up to date professional information. However, barriers such as insufficient time and lack of necessary information retrieval skills necessitate the presence of clinical informationist (CI) in medical teams.

Objectives

This study sought to determine the pre‐requisite for CI participation in the grand round.

Methods

This was a qualitative study carried out using content analysis approach. Study involved all fellowship students and attending physicians in the department of gastroenterology at Al‐Zahra hospital in Isfahan (Iran), who were selected using purposive sampling. Gathered reports were analysed using qualitative content analysis and concept mapping approaches.

Discussion

To improve the process of CI collaboration with clinical specialists during the educational rounds, it is necessary for CI to have certain pre‐requisite skills.

Conclusions

By identifying the pre‐requisites for CI participation in the grand round and explaining advantages of this participation for clinical specialists, this study proposes a suitable process for implantation of CI participation in grand rounds.
Collision risk of Montagu’s Harriers Circus pygargus with wind turbines derived from high‐resolution GPS tracking
Authors: Schaub Tonio , Klaassen Raymond H.G. , Bouten Willem , Schlaich Almut E. , Koks Ben J.
Published: October 2019

Flight behaviour characteristics such as flight altitude and avoidance behaviour determine the species‐specific collision risk of birds with wind turbines. However, traditional observational methods exhibit limited positional accuracy. High‐resolution GPS telemetry represents a promising method to overcome this drawback. In this study, we used three‐dimensional GPS tracking data including high‐accuracy tracks recorded at 3‐s intervals to investigate the collision risk of breeding male Montagu's Harriers Circus pygargus in the Dutch–German border region. Avoidance of wind turbines was quantified by a novel approach comparing observed flights to a null model of random flight behaviour. On average, Montagu's Harriers spent as much as 8.2 h per day in flight. Most flights were at low altitude, with only 7.1% within the average rotor height range (RHR; 45–125 m). Montagu's Harriers showed significant avoidance behaviour, approaching turbines less often than expected, particularly when flying within the RHR (avoidance rate of 93.5%). For the present state, with wind farms situated on the fringes of the regional nesting range, collision risk models based on our new insights on flight behaviour indicated 0.6–2.0 yearly collisions of adult males (as compared with a population size of c. 40 pairs). However, the erection of a new wind farm inside the core breeding area could markedly increase mortality (up to 9.7 yearly collisions). If repowering of the wind farms was carried out using low‐reaching modern turbines (RHR 36–150 m), mortality would more than double, whereas it would stay approximately constant if higher turbines (RHR 86–200 m) were used. Our study demonstrates the great potential of high‐resolution GPS tracking for collision risk assessments. The resulting information on collision‐related flight behaviour allows for performing detailed scenario analyses on wind farm siting and turbine design, in contrast to current environmental assessment practices. With regard to Montagu's Harriers, we conclude that although the deployment of higher wind turbines represents an opportunity to reduce collision risk for this species, precluding wind energy developments in core breeding areas remains the most important mitigation measure.
Educación y desigualdad salarial en el sector informal. El caso del Camerún
Authors: ATANGANA ONDOA Henri
Published: October 2019

En este artículo se estiman los efectos de la educación sobre la desigualdad salarial del sector informal en el Camerún. Mediante una regresión cuantílica se analizan los datos de la segunda encuesta sobre el empleo y el sector informal en el Camerún (EESI 2), de 2010. Los resultados indican que la calificación se asocia a una mayor remuneración y desigualdad salarial, principalmente en el caso de los trabajadores con estudios superiores. En consecuencia, se formulan varias recomendaciones de política destinadas a favorecer la formalización, mediante la creación de empleo calificado, el desarrollo de infraestructuras adaptadas para el sector informal y el fomento de la formación profesional.
Minimally interventive restorative care of teeth with molar incisor hypomineralization and open apex—A 24‐month longitudinal study
Authors: Gatón‐Hernandéz Patrícia , Serrano César Ruiz , da Silva Lea Assed Bezerra , de Castañeda Esther Ruiz , da Silva Raquel Assed Bezerra , Pucinelli Carolina Maschietto , Manton David , Ustrell‐Torrent Josep María , Nelson‐Filho Paulo
Published: October 2019

Aim

To assess the efficacy of treatment using a minimally invasive approach (selective removal of carious tissue, restoration and preventive strategies) in immature permanent molars with MIH.

Design

A total of 281 patients, aged 6‐8 years, with carious lesions (ICDAS 5‐6), severe MIH, and incomplete root formation (one tooth/patient) were included. After clinical and radiographic examinations, selective carious tissue removal was performed, and the teeth received interim restoration for 6 months and were then restored with composite resin. Clinical and radiographic follow‐up was undertaken, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. A protocol of preventive oral care measures was established and repeated at each follow‐up, including diet counselling, oral hygiene instruction, dental plaque control, and topical application of fluoride varnish containing CPP‐ACP. All clinical procedures and evaluations were done by a single operator.

Results

Clinical and radiographic success was observed 24 months after treatment in 96.8% of the cases. Failures were due to enamel fracture at restoration margins, resulting in pulpitis and absence of apex closure.

Conclusion

Selective removal of carious tissue, interim, and subsequently definitive restoration, combined with home and professional preventive measures, maintained marginal integrity of restorations in immature permanent molars with severe MIH, confirmed by pulp vitality and occurrence of apexogenesis.
Dental caries and oral health‐related quality of life of 3‐year‐olds living in Lima, Peru
Authors: Pesaressi Eraldo , Villena Rita S. , Frencken Jo E.
Published: October 2019

Background

Untreated dental caries negatively impacts children and their families; the implication of which is best measured through assessing quality of life. Information related to Oral Health‐Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) in Peruvian pre‐school children is scarce.

Aim

To investigate the relationship between dental caries and the OHRQoL of 3‐year‐old children.

Design

Randomly selected government pre‐schools (n = 17), situated in three low socio‐economic status districts in Lima, participated. The OHRQoL data were obtained using the Peruvian (P) ECOHIS questionnaire. Clinical examinations using the Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) instrument were performed on 308 children. From which, 213 parents returned the P‐ECOHIS form. ANOVA, Tamhane, and Tukey methods were used to analyse the data.

Results

The mean age of the children was 3.04 years. The two highest mean P‐ECOHIS scores in the child section were ‘child symptoms’ and ‘child psychology’ while ‘parent distress’ scored highest in the parent section. The prevalence of dental caries was 64.3% (CAST scores 4‐7). Including CASTcode 3 (enamel carious lesion), the dental caries prevalence was 93.4%. The mean P‐ECOHIS scores for ‘child symptoms’, ‘child functions’, ‘child impact’, ‘parent distress’, and ‘the sample’ were statistically significantly higher for children with MaxCASTcodes 5 and 6 (dentine and pulpally involved cavities, respectively) than for those with MaxCASTcode 3.

Conclusion

The presence of cavitated teeth with and without pulpal involvement impacts negatively on the OHRQoL of 3‐year‐old children.
Near infrared light‐induced photocurrent in NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+/WO2.72 composite film
Authors: Zhang Hailu , Yang Zhengwen , Wang Yuehui , Ma Yingjin , Qiu Jianbei , Song Zhiguo
Published: October 2019

Spectral conversion technology based on NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ upconversion nanoparticles was extensively used to improve photovoltaic conversion efficiency of solar cells. However, the response mismatch between absorption of semiconductors and upconversion luminescence (UCL) limits the application of spectral conversion technology. Nonstoichiometric WO2.72 nanoparticles display the broad absorption from visible to near‐infrared region due to the presence of oxygen vacancy, which is overlapped with the UCL of NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ nanoparticles. Thus, the combination between NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ nanoparticles, and nonstoichiometric WO2.72 provides a possibility for designing a novel UCL spectral converted solar cells. In this work, composite film consisted of NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ nanoparticles, and WO2.72 nanofibers was prepared. The UCL of NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+/WO2.72 film was decreased in contrast to pure NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ nanoparticles due to energy transfer from NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ nanoparticles to WO2.72 nanofibers. The NaYF4:Yb3+, E3+/WO2.72film exhibits the photocurrent generation upon the 980 nm excitation. This novel UCL spectral converted solar cells based on the broad absorption of defects in the WO2.72 host will provide a novel view for photovoltaic devices.
Acclimation of the Marine Diatom Pseudo‐nitzschia australis to Different Salinity Conditions: Effects on Growth, Photosynthetic Activity, and Domoic Acid Content1
Authors: Ayache Nour , Hervé Fabienne , Lundholm Nina , Amzil Zouher , Caruana Amandine M. N.
Published: October 2019

Toxic Pseudo‐nitzschia australis strains isolated from French coastal waters were studied to investigate their capacity to adapt to different salinities. Their acclimation to different salinity conditions (10, 20, 30, 35, and 40) was studied on growth, photosynthetic capacity, cell biovolume, and domoic acid (DA) content. The strains showed an ability to acclimate to a salinity range from 20 to 40, with optimal growth rates between salinities 30 and 40. The highest cell biovolume was observed at the lowest salinity 20 and was associated with the lowest growth rate. Salinity did not affect the photosynthetic activity; Fv/Fm values and the pigment contents remained high with no significant difference among salinities. An enhanced production of zeaxanthin was, however, observed in the late stationary and decline phases in all cultures except for those acclimated to salinity 20. In terms of cellular toxin content, DA concentrations were 2 to 3‐fold higher at the lowest salinity (20) than at the other salinities and were combined with a low amount of dissolved DA. The fact that P. australis accumulate more DA per cell in less saline waters, illustrates that climate‐related changes in salinity may affect Pseudo‐nitzschia physiology through direct effects on growth, physiology, and toxin content.
Root‐induced soil deformation influences Fe, S and P: rhizosphere chemistry investigated using synchrotron XRF and XANES
Authors: van Veelen Arjen , Koebernick Nicolai , Scotson Callum S. , McKay‐Fletcher Daniel , Huthwelker Thomas , Borca Camelia N. , Mosselmans J. Fred W. , Roose Tiina
Published: October 2019

Rhizosphere soil has distinct physical and chemical properties from bulk soil. However, besides root‐induced physical changes, chemical changes have not been extensively measured in situ on the pore scale.

In this study, we couple structural information, previously obtained using synchrotron X‐ray computed tomography (XCT), with synchrotron X‐ray fluorescence microscopy (XRF) and X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) to unravel chemical changes induced by plant roots.

Our results suggest that iron (Fe) and sulfur (S) increase notably in the direct vicinity of the root via solubilization and microbial activity. XANES further shows that Fe is slightly reduced, S is increasingly transformed into sulfate (SO42−) and phosphorus (P) is increasingly adsorbed to humic substances in this enrichment zone. In addition, the ferrihydrite fraction decreases drastically, suggesting the preferential dissolution and the formation of more stable Fe oxides. Additionally, the increased transformation of organic S to sulfate indicates that the microbial activity in this zone is increased. These changes in soil chemistry correspond to the soil compaction zone as previously measured via XCT.

The fact that these changes are colocated near the root and the compaction zone suggests that decreased permeability as a result of soil structural changes acts as a barrier creating a zone with increased rhizosphere chemical interactions via surface‐mediated processes, microbial activity and acidification.
Importance of intraspecific variation in the pollination and seed dispersal functions of a double mutualist animal species
Authors: Fuster Francisco , Traveset Anna
Published: October 2019

Although most plants depend on different animals for pollination and seed dispersal, sometimes the same animal species provides both functions, being thus involved in what has been termed a ‘double mutualism’. Very little is known on the effectiveness of such species as both pollinators and seed dispersers, and even less on the intraspecific level differences at the contribution of an animal mutualist to plant fitness. In this study, we focused on the interaction between a Mediterranean shrub Cneorum tricoccon (Rutaceae) and the Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi (Lacertidae) in order to assess: 1) the role of this lizard as a legitimate pollinator of the plant (previously thought to be exclusively insect‐pollinated), and 2) the intraspecific variation in the use of flowers and fruits by lizard individuals, comparing males, females and juveniles. We further evaluated whether lizards show different fruit size selection depending on sex and age, with potential consequences for seed germination. Lizards visited more flowers and selected more hermaphrodite flowers than insects did, leading to relative increases in both fruit and seed set. Interestingly, female and juvenile lizards were the main flower visitors, whereas males were the main fruit consumers. Males selected the largest fruits (bearing the largest seeds) though this did not increase seed germination, which was only ca 15%. We concluded that P. lilfordi acts as a legitimate pollinator of C. tricoccon and, thus, confirm that this system constitutes a new case of double mutualism, especially common in island compared to mainland systems. Moreover, our findings show a large variation among conspecific individuals in their role as either pollinators or seed dispersers, with potential implications for plant reproductive success. Our study, therefore, highlights the importance of evaluating plant–animal interactions at the intraspecific level, and calls for more in‐depth studies on the consequences of such intraspecific variation.
On the Provision of Insurance against Search‐Induced Wage Fluctuations*
Authors: Michau Jean‐Baptiste
Published: October 2019

Should workers be provided with insurance against search‐induced wage fluctuations? To answer this question, I rely on the numerical simulations of a model of on‐the‐job search and precautionary savings. The model is calibrated to low‐skilled workers in the United States. The extent of insurance is determined by the degree of progressivity of a non‐linear transfer schedule. The fundamental trade‐off is that a more generous provision of insurance reduces incentives to search for better‐paying jobs, which increases the cost of providing insurance. I show that progressivity raises the search intensity of unemployed workers, which reduces the equilibrium rate of unemployment, but it lowers the search intensity of employed job seekers, which reduces the output level. I also solve numerically for the optimal non‐linear transfer schedule. The optimal policy is to provide little insurance up to a monthly income level of $1350, so as to preserve incentives to move up the wage ladder, and nearly full insurance above $1450. This policy reduces the standard deviation of labor income net of transfers by 34 per cent and generates a consumption‐equivalent welfare gain of 0.7 per cent. The absence of private savings does not fundamentally change the shape of the optimal transfer function, but tilts the optimal policy towards more insurance, at the expense of a less efficient allocation of workers across jobs.
Detection of hepatitis E virus RNA in rats caught in pig farms from Northern Italy
Authors: De Sabato Luca , Ianiro Giovanni , Monini Marina , De Lucia Alessia , Ostanello Fabio , Di Bartolo Ilaria
Published: October 2019

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) strains belonging to the Orthohepevirus genus are divided into four species (A–D). HEV strains included in the Orthohepevirus A species infect humans and several other mammals. Among them, the HEV‐3 and HEV‐4 genotypes are zoonotic and infect both humans and animals, of which, pigs and wild boar are the main reservoirs. Viruses belonging to the Orthohepevirus C species (HEV‐C) have been considered to infect rats of different species and carnivores. Recently, two studies reported the detection of HEV‐C1 (rat HEV) RNA in immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients, suggesting a possible transmission of rat HEV to humans. The role of rats and mice as reservoir of HEV and the potential zoonotic transmission is still poorly known and deserves further investigation. To this purpose, in this study, the presence of HEV RNA was investigated in the intestinal contents and liver samples from 47 Black rats (Rattus rattus) and 21 House mice (Mus musculus) captured in four pig farms in Northern Italy. The presence of both Orthohepevirus A and C was investigated by the real‐rime RT‐PCR specific for HEV‐1 to HEV‐4 genotypes of Orthohepevirus A species and by a broad spectrum hemi‐nested RT‐PCR capable of detecting different HEV species including rat HEV. The intestinal content from two Black rats resulted positive for HEV‐C1 RNA and for HEV‐3 RNA, respectively. None of the House mice was HEV RNA positive. Sequence analyses confirmed the detection of HEV‐C1, genotype G1 and HEV‐3 subtype e. The viral strain HEV‐3e detected in the rat was identical to swine HEV strains detected in the same farm. Liver samples were negative for the detection of either rat HEV or HEV‐3.
Proposed Parameter Investigation Based on Design of Experiment for Woven Fabric Composites Deformation
Authors: Muhamad Mohd. Razali , Mohd. Sanusi Mohammad Hamdan
Published: October 2019

Advanced composite laminate and honeycomb core sandwich structure depict process induced geometrical and dimensional deformations after end of curing process. These shape deformations are unpredictable and contribute to fit, form and functional error during an assembly stage. Often a conventional trialâ€“andâ€“error method is deployed to correct the geometrical shape of the mould tool prior to mass production, which is very costly, uneconomical and time consuming. Alternatively a better method is sought to predict shape deformations considering the elements of material properties, toolâ€“part interaction and processing factors. Based on previous studies, there is still lacking of experimental data and studies on the effect of weavings styles and honeycomb core material properties in affecting shape deformations of flat and Lâ€“angled composite parts. Hence, it is proposed to perform a design of experiment with a fractional factorial of 28â€“4, Resolution IV, to investigate the parameters that affect the shape deformations of composite parts.
Human Factor Issue in Quality Management
Authors: Daud Yusof , Jamaludin Khairur Rijal , Ramanr Jeyanthi Vengatta
Published: October 2019

Quality management is very important in every business to ensure success of the business. As promoted by many quality experts, people are the most important factor in assuring quality of products and services. Managing human factors has significant impact on the quality performance of an organization. In this study, deterioration human factors management was identified as main contribution of the high number of customer complaints in a electronic packaging company. A survey was conducted among the target departments to determine the reasons of the deterioration in human factors and to identify the area for improvement. Pareto chart was used to prioritize the area for improvement. Human factors are important elements of quality management, therefore regular assessment, review and continuous improvement are required.
Relationship Between Measurement of Cutting Force and Sensor Location in Turning Process
Authors: A. Ghani Jaharah , Jye Poh Siang , Che Haron Che Hassan , Rizal Muhammad , Nuawi Mohd Zaki
Published: October 2019

Turning process is widely used in the production of components for automotive and aerospace applications. The machinability of a work material is commonly assessed in terms of cutting tool life, surface finish, and cutting force. These responses are dependent on machining parameters such as cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut. In this study, the relationships between cutting force, cutting speed, and sensor location in the turning process were investigated. Strain gauge was chosen as the sensor for the detection of cutting force signal during turning of hardened plain carbon steel JIS S45C. Two strain gauges were mounted on a tool holder at a defined location of I, II, or III at a distance of 37, 42, or 47 mm, respectively, from the cutting point. Only one set of machining experiments was conducted at spindle speed = 1000 rpm, feed = 0.25 mm/rev, and depth of cut = 0.80 mm. The turning process was stopped and the insert was discarded when average flank wear reached 0.30 mm. The main cutting force and the feed force for each cycle measured by the strain gauges at location I, II, and III were collected and analyzed. Results show that when cutting speed was increased, the main cutting force and the feed force were decreased accordingly. The change of was inversely proportional to the change of cutting speed, but the did not decrease continuously and behaved contrarily. A strain gauge placed at a distance of approximately 43 mm from the cutting point was found to be the best and most suitable for sensing accurate force signals.
Delaminating Control on Drilling the Medium Density Fiber Board with Robust Optimization
Authors: Jamaludin Khairur Rijal , Adenan Mohd Shahriman , Md Daud Mohd Yusof , Abd Raman Norazmein
Published: October 2019

Drilling the medium density fiber (MDF) board always emerge the occurrence of delaminating, as the unwanted result of the process. The defect will moderate the aesthetical value of the finished products particularly if the product is a furniture product. This work optimizes the control factor of delamination using robust engineering technique founded by Genichi Taguchi, father of robust engineering. The optimum drilling parameter which based on smallest the better is optimized and it is confirmed by the confirmation experiment that the imperfections is minimized. Three control factors are investigated in the study: feed rate, cutting speed, and drill bits diameter. The response plot of the control factor shows a drill bit diameter is the highest contributing control factor that influences delaminating as the different of the robustness is 2.047 dB. The optimum parameter shows that the variability of the noise factor is improved as compared to the initial parameter by means of the dB gain of 1.308 dB and 1.451 dB for the prediction and confirmation respectively. The robust assessment of the optimization has indicates that the drilling parameter is less sensitive to the noise factor.
Mechanochemical Carboaluminothermic Reduction of V2O5 to Produce VC-Al2O3 Nanocomposite
Authors: Hossein-Zadeh Mohsen , Tebyani Fatemeh , Cherati Javad Yazdani , Mirzaee Omid
Published: October 2019

The aim of this investigation is to produce VC–Al2O3 nanocomposite by reducing V2O5 with Aluminum and black carbon powders via mechanochemical process. The effect of milling time on this process was investigated. Milling process was done powder mixture at a rotation speed of 250 rpm for different times. Results showed that VCx has been synthesized after 1 hour of milling. The characterization of phase formation, crystallite size, strain percentage and lattice parameter was done by XRD analysis. To study the morphological evolution and determination of particle size of nanocomposite powders, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) was used. The crystallite size and lattice strain were determined by Williamson-Hall method. XRD study showed that for 6 h milling, the width of V4C3 peaks increased while the crystallite size of these phases decreased to about 27nm. In order to formVC–Al2O3 nanocomposite, the mixture was heat treated with the aid of microwave oven. The composite revealed good microwave absorption and heated up to 1150°C.
Effect of VC and C Addition on Mechanical Properties and Microstructures of WC-Co Hardmetals Processed in Nitrogen-Based Atmosphere
Authors: Talib R. J. , Mahaidin A. A. , Manaf S. A. , Selamat M. A.
Published: October 2019

The WC-Co, WC-Co-VC and WC-Co-C samples are fabricated using powder metallurgy technique. The mixed powder is compacted under the pressure of 625 MPa, cold-isostatic pressed at 200 MPa and sintered at temperature in the range of 1350 – 1450°C nitrogen-based atmosphere. The mechanical properties of the samples are analyzed using Vicker’s microhardness tester, universal tensile machine and scanning electron microscope. Test results reveal that WC-Co-C sample has better mechanical properties as compared to WC-Co and WC-Co-VC due to the formation of homogeneous and dense structure.
Sintering Behavior and Mechanical Properties of High Speed Steel Powder Processed In Nitrogen-Based Atmosphere
Authors: Abdul Manaf Samsiah , Selamat Mohd Asri , Mahaidin Ahmad Aswad , Jaafar Talib Ria
Published: October 2019

High speed steel (HSS) is a common material used in the manufacturing of cutting tool and other cutters. In this study, M3/2 HSS had been used to produce cutting tool insert through powder metallurgy (PM) route. The HSS was mixed with iron phosphorus (Fe3P) powders in a tubular mixer for 30 minutes by dry blending. The powder was compacted at pressure of 632 MPa (16 ton) and sintered at temperature range between 1100°C and 1225°C under nitrogen-hydrogen atmosphere. Further work was done through heat treatment process involving austenitising and tempering to improve the mechanical properties of the insert. The properties were determined through hardness testing and transverse rupture strength (TRS).
An Overview of a Wireless Sensor Network for Structural Health Monitoring Using X-Bee Pro Module
Authors: Johari Mohd Huzairi , Mohd Zain Muhammad Fauzi , Hannan M. A. , Haque M. E. , Md Zaini Roslena , Ahmad Nooraini
Published: October 2019

This paper proposes a new design for structural health monitoring devices system by integrating the strain gauge in digital sensor signal and embedded wireless communication system. X-Bee Pro modules are proposed to be integrated with the system to provide long range wireless connectivity to the devices. This system is designed to enhance the efficiency of structural health monitoring by obtaining real time data remotely from a different place. In order to achieve objectives and to develop a smart wireless system for structural health monitoring, the methodology of this study includes hardware designing and interfacing of a prototype according to the model system. Smart wireless sensor networks for structure health monitoring have the potential to facilitate more economical management in structure monitoring.
An Overview of Effective Postgraduate Supervision Style Based on Assessment and Supervisory Model
Authors: Ansarudin Farizah , Tasirin Siti Masrinda , Omar Mohd Zaidi , Mohd. Zain Muhammad Fauzi , Amil Zulhaidi , Johari Mohd. Huzairi , Md Zaini Roslena , Hashim Nor Rajaie , Husin Siti Nurul Hunadia , Ahmad Nooraini
Published: October 2019

Research process involves personal and professional relationship between students and supervisors. Successful research can be achieved if sustainable supervisor-student relationship is attained along the research journey. It is supervisors’ role to challenge and extend their students abilities in all areas to ensure their success in research timely. In this case, students’ abilities or progress must be assessed and evaluated. Evaluation and assessment is thus very important for any research and educational process. This paper overview the use of different evaluation as well as assessment systems for postgraduate supervision. Different methods of supervision are also briefly overviewed. Group supervision is probably to be most reliable model practiced by several institutions to conduct research students due to increasing numbers or students as well as demanding from academic environment hold by supervisor including administration commitments.
INTERACTIVE MULTIMEDIA-BASED MOBILE APPLICATION FOR LEARNING IBAN LANGUAGE
Authors: Chachil Ketty , Mohd Rias Riaza , Engkamat Adeline , Sarkawi Adib
Published: October 2019

The emergence of mobile technological devices has brought along new possibilities to all walks of life in various communities. As mobile devices with highest capabilities extend into all areas of human life, they also affected language learning and mobile education. There are many mobile applications created for most of the major languages in the world and lesser amount is available for the far less used languages. Iban language is an example of those languages given far less attention as it is not as practical as other world languages. Iban language has been chosen to be implemented as a multimedia-based mobile application to promote language learning due to its richness in unique culture and language. The application, I-MMAPPS for learning Iban language was designed and developed by adopting conversational method and constructivism learning theory to provide learners a different approach in learning language based on various environments and situations. Since Iban pronunciations are different from any Malaysians local dialects, thus the correct pronunciations are vital to assist the learners. 30 non native speakers were chosen to test the application. The outcomes of this research shown that, most of the respondents were satisfied when they learn Iban language using the application. This application also has a promising development in future research.
INFORMATION BEHAVIOUR: GRADUATES’ PATTERN IN SEEKING INFORMATION
Authors: Mohd Nadzir Maslinda , Salim Juhana
Published: October 2019

Past researches on students’ information seeking behaviour concluded that students have difficulty in searching the literature and unable to find the required information during the searching processes. The problem must be addressed as students need exposure on the knowledge of information searching and retrieval. This study explores graduate students’ information seeking behaviour in seeking research-based information with the intention of accomplishing their research tasks. The data was collected through survey method by using web-based questionnaire. A total of 193 respondents have responded to the survey questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows version 12.0. The findings of this study conclude that most of the graduate students prefer to use electronic information sources when seeking for research-based information. This can be used as guideline to improve information services and facilitate graduate students to construct better strategies during information seeking activities in effectively finding the relevant research-based information.
NUMERICAL STUDY ON TEMPERATURE DISTRIBUTION IN AN ANNULAR DIFFUSER USING TWISTED RECTANGULAR HUB / PIMPLED HUB AS SWIRL GENERATORS
Authors: Shukri Ehan Sabah , Wisnoe Wirachman
Published: October 2019

Annular diffuser has very strong industrial significance. The existence of hub can guide the flow axially and radially outward. In this paper temperature distribution is numerically investigated in an annular diffuser fitted with two different hub geometries that include twisted rectangular hub and pimpled hub. These two hub shapes are studied and compared as swirl generators. Inlet boundary conditions and annular diffuser geometries for both hub configurations are kept constant with Reynolds number (Re = 4.2 x 104). The results indicate that using both twisted rectangular hub and pimpled hub will impose the flow to follow in a swirl motion and force the temperature to distribute in a helical direction. Temperature distribution will be enhanced as a result of increasing of swirl motion, however the results pointed out that pimpled hub inserts provide better distribution effect.