bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Putting species back on the map: devising a robust method for quantifying the biodiversity impacts of land conversion
Authors: Durán América P. , Green Jonathan M.H. , West Christopher D. , Visconti Piero , Burgess Neil D. , Virah-Sawmy Malika , Balmford Andrew
Published: October 2018

Aim

Quantifying connections between the global drivers of habitat loss and biodiversity impact is vital for decision-makers promoting responsible land-use. To that end, biodiversity impact metrics should be able to report linked trends in specific anthropogenic activities and changes in biodiversity state. However, for biodiversity, it is challenging to deliver integrated information on its multiple dimensions (i.e. species richness, endemicity) and keep it practical. Here, we developed a biodiversity footprint indicator that can i) capture the status of different species groups, ii) link biodiversity impact to specific human activities, and iii) be adapted to the most applicable scale for the decision context.

Location

Cerrado Biome, Brazil

Methods

We illustrate this globally-applicable approach for the case of soybean expansion in the Brazilian Cerrado. Using species-specific habitat suitability models, we assessed the impact of soy expansion and other land uses over 2,000 species of amphibians, birds, mammals and plants for three time periods between 2000 and 2014.

Results

Overall, plants suffered the greatest reduction of suitable habitat. However, among endemic and near-endemic species – which face greatest risk of global extinction from habitat conversion in the Cerrado - birds were the most affected group. While planted pastures and cropland expansion were together responsible for most of the absolute biodiversity footprint, soy expansion via direct conversion of natural vegetation had the greatest impact per unit area. The total biodiversity footprint over the period was concentrated in the southern states of Minas Geráis, Goiás and Mato Grosso, but the soy footprint was proportionally higher in those northern states (such as Bahía and Piauí) which belong to the new agricultural frontier.

Main conclusions

The ability and flexibility of our approach to examine linkages between biodiversity loss and specific human activities has substantial potential to better characterise the pathways by which habitat loss drivers operate.
Supramolecular interaction-induced assemblies of polyanions and 2-aminopyridinium in two polyoxometalate-based hybrids
Authors: Duan Fengxue , Liu Xiaoting , Xu Wei , Tao Yanchun , Li Bao , Wu Lixin
Published: October 2018

Organic–inorganic hybrids consisting of organic cations and polyanions are promising functional materials due to their various compositions and structures. An important aspect of these materials is the interactions between the organic and inorganic components, which not only produce the final structures, but also influence the properties. Here, we investigated the interactions between organic cations and polyanions using protonated 2-aminopyridinium (Hap) as the cation, and successfully obtained two polyoxometalate-based hybrids, namely (C5H7N2)4[Mo8O26], (I), and (C5H7N2)2[NiMo6O16(OH)2{CH3C(CH2O)3}2]·4H2O, (II). In the crystal structure of (I), every Hap cation links with two polyanions by donating one or two N—H...O hydrogen bonds, and every polyanion is surrounded by eight Hap cations via terminal or bridging O atoms. Conversely, in compound (II), every Hap cation only links with one polyanion decorated by a triol ligand; this organic–inorganic component further assembles via uncoordinated water molecules. In the extended structures, Hap plays a key role, not only providing a counter charge, but also acting as `glue' linking polyanions in the role of hydrogen-bond donors. In both compounds, as the nodes of the supramolecular network, the polyanions exhibit an ordered two-dimensional arrangement due to strong hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions between the organic and inorganic parts. The electrochemistry of compound (I) shows that redox sourcing from polyanions is a surface-controlled process. Conversely, the magnetic behaviour of compound (II) indicates dominant antiferromagnetic properties.
Flow field and acoustics characteristics of elliptical jet
Authors: Manigandan S. , K. Vijayaraja
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the results of mixing promotion and screech frequency of controlled elliptical supersonic jet.

Design/methodology/approach

Flow field characteristics of low-aspect-ratio elliptical jets are examined at over-expanded, under-expanded and correctly expanded conditions. The tabs are placed at elliptical jet exit along the major and minor axes.

Findings

The results show that the mixing done by the minor axis is superior to the tabs along major axis. At all pressure ratios, the content of jet noise and the frequency are high for the tabs along the major axis because of increase in the amplitude of screech frequency. Further the tabs along minor axis show a dominance of large-scale vertical structures. In under-expanded conditions, the shock cell shows the rapid change because of the presence of tabs. The tabs along minor axis are making the shock weaker, hence no evidence of axis switching.

Practical implications

To achieve the greater performance of jet, the authors need to reduce the potential core length of the issuing jet. This can be achieved by implementing different types of tabs at the exit of the nozzle.

Originality/value

The present paper represents the flow of controlled jet using inverted triangular tabs. By achieving the controlled jet flow, the performance of propulsion systems can be improved. This can be used in systems such as combustion chamber, missile’s noise reduction and thrust vector control.
Extending consumer ethnocentrism theory: the moderating effect test
Authors: Yen Yung-Shen
Published: October 2018

Purpose

While the idea that consumer ethnocentrism influences the willingness to buy domestic products is a well-known assumption for marketers, the purpose of this paper is to examine the moderating effect of consumer ethnocentrism on the willingness to buy domestic products in developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Hierarchical moderator regression analysis and simple slope analysis are used to test the postulated hypotheses, and 385 consumers in Taiwan are studied.

Findings

The findings revealed that consumer ethnocentrism, perceived quality, perceived price and perceived brand image are significantly associated with the willingness to buy domestic products. Moreover, consumer ethnocentrism significantly moderates the relationships of the model.

Research limitations/implications

Consumer ethnocentrism increases the positive effects of perceived quality and perceived brand image on the willingness to buy domestic products in developing countries, whereas it may increase the negative effect of perceived price on the willingness to buy domestic products.

Practical implications

The results of this study suggest that practitioners should not only improve the quality and brand image of domestic products but also avoid putting a high price on domestic products to increase the willingness to buy domestic products for consumers in developing countries.

Originality/value

This study advances the consumer ethnocentrism theory by adding the moderating effect of consumer ethnocentrism to the model.
The power of spirituality
Authors: Saleem Muhammad Abid , Eagle Lynne , Yaseen Asif , Low David
Published: October 2018

Purpose

In the wake of growing environmental issues, active public and corporate interventions are inevitable to reduce the negative impact of human activities on global environments. Building on the Norm Activation Model and Value-Belief-Norm Theory, the purpose of this paper is to report on research exploring consumers’ eco-socially conscious behaviours related to the choice and use of personal cars in a developing country, Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

To test a moderated-mediation model of environmental values, perceived consumer effectiveness (PCE), spirituality and eco-socially conscious consumer behaviours (ESCCBs), data were collected from 447 customers of three automobile manufacturing firms from eight different cities of Pakistan. The data collection was undertaken by using a self-administered questionnaire based on key themes in the literature.

Findings

Analysis of the data revealed that altruistic and egoistic values were negatively while biospheric values were positively associated with eco-ESCCB. PCE mediated all the relationships and spirituality moderated the mediated paths.

Originality/value

Although there are several models that explain purchase and use of personal cars in isolation or in conjunction with other general pro-environmental behaviours, an explanation of the eco-social aspects of purchase and use of personal cars in one theoretical model is rare to find. Second, among the many theoretical predictors and intervening factors explaining several pro-environmental behaviours, some culture-specific factors have been ignored – spirituality being one of them. This study contributes to the body of knowledge related to pro-environmental behaviours by conceptualising and testing the impact of spirituality in a moderated-mediation model.
Unmanned aerial system applications in construction: a systematic review
Authors: Zhou Shi , Gheisari Masoud
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Over the past decade, researchers have used unmanned aerial systems (UASs) in construction industry for various applications from site inspection to safety monitoring or building maintenance. This paper aims to assort academic studies on construction UAS applications, summarize logics behind using UAS in each application and extend understanding of current state of UAS research in the construction setting.

Design/methodology/approach

This research follows a systematic literature assessment methodology to summarize the results of 54 research papers over the past ten years and outlines the research trends for applying UASs in construction.

Findings

UASs are used in building inspection, damage assessment, site surveying, safety inspection, progress monitoring, building maintenance and other construction applications. Cost saving, time efficiency and improved accessibility are the primary reasons for choosing UAS in construction applications. Rotary-wing UASs are the most common types of UASs being used in construction. Cameras, LiDAR and Kinect are the most common onboard sensors integrated in construction UAS applications. The control styles used are manual, semi-autonomous and autonomous.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to classification of UAS applications in construction research and identification of UAS hardware and sensor types as well as their flying control systems in construction literature.
Understanding the foundations of global competitive advantage of nations
Authors: Farinha Luis , Nunes Sara , Ferreira João J. , Fernandes António
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper focuses on the issue of global competitive advantage of nations, based on the dimensions analyzed by the World Economic Forum in assessing the economic competitiveness of a large sample of countries. From the different stages of development of the countries, this study aims to help us to recognize what variables better explain the global competitive advantage of economies.

Design/methodology/approach

Following quantitative analysis, results based on PLS show what dimensions within each economic development stage best explain the global competitive advantage of economies.

Findings

Beyond the institutions, infrastructure and regulation of the markets, higher education and training, the technological readiness, the business sophistication and innovation contribute greatly to explain the competitive advantage of economies.

Originality/value

Understanding the drivers of global competitive advantage of nations, this study may help academics to conduct new studies, as well as politicians to define intervention priorities.
Well-flow behavior of reorientation fracture considering permeability anisotropy
Authors: Tian Xiaoming , Dong Pingchuan
Published: October 2018

Purpose

In petroleum industry, hydraulic fracturing is essential to enhance oil productivity. The hydraulic fractures are usually generated in the process of hydraulic fracturing. Although some mathematical models were proposed to analyze the well-flow behavior of conventional fracture, there are few models to depict unconventional fracture like reorientation fracture. To figure out the effect of reorientation fracture on production enhancement and guide the further on-site operating, this paper aims to investigate the well-flow behavior of vertical reorientation fracture in horizontal permeability anisotropic reservoir.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the governing equation considering horizontal permeability anisotropy, the mathematical models for reorientation fractures in infinite reservoir are developed by using the principle of superposition. Furthermore, a rectangular closed drainage area is also considered to investigate the well-flow behavior of reorientation fracture, and the mathematical models are developed by using Green’s and source functions.

Findings

Computational results indicate that the flux distribution of infinite conductivity fracture is uniform at very early times. After a period, it will stabilize eventually. High permeability anisotropy and small inclination angle of reorientation will cause significant end point effect in the infinite conductivity fracture. The reorientation fractures with small inclination angle in high anisotropic reservoir are capable of improving 1-1.5 times more oil productivity in total.

Originality/value

This paper develops the mathematical methods to study the well-flow behavior for unconventional fracture, especially for reorientation fracture. The results validate the production enhancement effect of reorientation fracture and identify the sensitive parameters of productivity.
Antecedents and consequences of perceived customer value in the restaurant industry
Authors: Thielemann Vincent M. , Ottenbacher Michael C. , Harrington Robert James
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the antecedents of perceived customer value, such as the perceived quality and perceived sacrifices, and the effects on customer satisfaction and customer loyalty (CL) in the restaurant industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an extensive literature review, a research model and questionnaire were designed. To assess the hypothesised relationships, data were collected in a field survey. Partial least squares regression (a variance-based regression analysis of SEM) was selected to analyse the relationships within the research model.

Findings

The findings of this study indicate that the perceived monetary sacrifice (PMS) and perceived service quality were found to be antecedents of perceived value (PV), whereas PMS was the major precursor of PV. Further, PV was found to have a substantial influence on customer satisfaction and CL.

Originality/value

The study provides a better understanding of the price–value–satisfaction–loyalty relationships in the restaurant context in a more holistic sense and recommendations to move this research stream forward.
Understanding millennial perceptions of human and nonhuman brands
Authors: ul Haq Junaid , Bonn Mark A.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to obtain perceptions from three distinct millennial segments about human and nonhuman brands related to travel. Specifically, inter and intra relationships between human and nonhuman brand credibility and equity constructs were investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Three millennial generational segments representing 571 respondents familiar with human and nonhuman brands, were investigated to explore their human and nonhuman brand credibility and equity perceptual issues. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the study hypotheses. Multi-group analysis was used to observe group differences.

Findings

Selected millennial segments were found to have differences in their behavior pertaining to human and nonhuman brand constructs. All hypotheses of the overall model were accepted. For group differences, a significant difference was observed. Gen Z was found to be different in emulating humans and their linked nonhuman brands when compared to both younger and older Gen Y segments.

Research limitations/implications

Study findings contribute to the marketing and tourism branding literature, as do findings related to generational differences.

Practical implications

The authors suggested implications for hospitality and tourism marketing professionals under the headings of emotional attachment, entertaining content, use of social media and exploring brands online. Implications including multicultural, brands with strong values and engaging with brands can be helpful for hospitality managers in attracting millennials.

Social implications

Social implications suggest behavioral differences related to three sub-groups of generational cohorts involving millennials.

Originality/value

This is the first study dedicated to observing millennial perceptions for human and nonhuman brands.
Energy planning and sustainable development of Pakistan
Authors: Hayat Farah , Khan Abid Ali , Ashraf Muhammad Arif
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Analysis of relationship between energy and growth offers the sustainable energy pathway for a country’s sustainable economic development. This study aims to focus on the evaluation of the Pakistan’s energy system using long-run energy alternative planning (LEAP) modeling framework through different growth scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

Principal component analysis has been adopted for indicators index formation. Study period of 1980 to 2030 is covered by forward and backward simulations in LEAP software.

Findings

The study reveals that current energy policy does not have the potential to lead the country toward a desired goal of economic sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

In falling off scenario, negative growth rate (-5 per cent) assumption is also debatable; LEAP shows an error in the analysis and takes the last positive available value for any further analysis as a default. This case could have been simply omitted from results but for research contribution, the computations for this case are also reported.

Practical implications

Long-range energy alternative planning model has been applied to answer the corresponding question for simulation period of 1980 to 2030 to better compare the past trend and future expectations. Critical analysis of four selected scenarios (BAU, moderate, advanced and falling off) indicate that energy policy of Pakistan is poorly managed to maintain energy system’s effectiveness.

Social implications

As far as statistical difference is concerned, early years have more fluctuation; however, from 2009, curve flattens for energy consumption and energy demand. The increasing demand of energy impacts the society and hence disturbs all sectors.

Originality/value

Policymakers have been so dragged off from the main route to sustainability, despite all odds there is a huge unexplored potential in the country for use to move in step with the world for a better tomorrow. The study educates the policymakers to comprehend the future energy scenarios and make rational decisions based on the study outcomes.
Addressing obesity in Roma communities: a community readiness approach
Authors: Islam Shahid , Small Neil , Bryant Maria , Yang Tiffany , Cronin de Chavez Anna , Saville Fiona , Dickerson Josie
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Participation in community programmes by the Roma community is low, whilst this community presents with high risk of poor health and low levels of wellbeing. To improve rates of participation in programmes, compatibility must be achieved between implementation efforts and levels of readiness in the community. The Community Readiness Model (CRM) is a widely used toolkit which provides an indication of how prepared and willing a community is to take action on specific issues. The purpose of this paper is to present findings from a CRM assessment for the Eastern European Roma community in Bradford, UK, on issues related to nutrition and obesity.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors interviewed key respondents identified as knowledgeable about the Roma community using the CRM. This approach applies a mixed methodology incorporating readiness scores and qualitative data. A mean community readiness score was calculated enabling researchers to place the community in one of nine possible stages of readiness. Interview transcripts were analysed using a qualitative framework analysis to generate the contextual information.

Findings

An overall score consistent with vague awareness was achieved, which indicates a low level of community readiness. This score suggests that there will be a low likelihood of participation in currently available nutrition and obesity programmes.

Originality/value

To our knowledge, this is the first study to apply the CRM in the Roma community for any issue. The authors present the findings for each of the six dimensions that make up the CRM together with salient qualitative findings.
Increasing convergence of civic engagement in management: a systematic literature review
Authors: Marino Vittoria , Lo Presti Letizia
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The last ten years have shown a significant upward trend of engagement in public management reflecting a significant increase in interest in the topic. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the benefits and factors affecting the construct of civic engagement that thus far are missing in the current literature through the analysis of studies published in the main journals of management.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a systematic literature review, the current research tries to advance the progress in the understanding of the civic engagement construct analyzing a sample of 96 papers published in the main journals on the subject areas of “communication,” “marketing” and “public sector management.”

Findings

The literature was codified and characterized as follows: level of analysis, variables that affect civic engagement; benefits of civic engagement; and theoretic and methodological approach. This research explores the construct through an analysis of the literature found in the main scientific journals to intercept its various profiles and facets alongside the mechanisms that precede and follow its manifestation.

Practical implications

Public organizations can no longer do without engaging citizens in decision-making processes. Public managers can use these findings to establish a connection with their citizens and influence their publics through commitment and managerial actions that guarantee direct democracy.

Originality/value

This is the first research that aims to study the phenomenon in the public sphere from a multidisciplinary perspective that is as yet incomplete. An integrated vision can highlight current and future developments and eventual opportunities for further research.
Health of caregiver-employees in Canada
Authors: Wang Li , Williams Allison , Kitchen Peter
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of various employment characteristics on the health of Canadian caregiver-employees (CEs), who are working full-time in the labor market while also providing informal/family care to adults.

Design/methodology/approach

Framed with Pearlin et al.’s (1990) stress model and using data from Statistic Canada’s General Social Survey Cycle 26 (2012), several work-related variables for caregivers were considered, including the availability of various forms of caregiver-friendly workplace policies (CFWPs), and a series of work interferences (WIs) experienced as a result of the caregiving role.

Findings

This study provides evidence for the value of CFWPs in all workplaces. Counter-intuitively, family and other forms of support were found to negatively relate to both physical and mental health.

Originality/value

This suggests that CFWPs will not only have an impact on CEs’ physical health outcomes, but will likely decrease the effect of the WIs experienced.
Forecasting Bankruptcy for organizational sustainability in Pakistan
Authors: Inam Fraz , Inam Aneeq , Mian Muhammad Abbas , Sheikh Adnan Ahmed , Awan Hayat Muhammad
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Considering the economic dimension of sustainability, the purpose of this paper is to analyze the risk of bankruptcy in the Pakistani firms of the non-financial sector from years 1995 to 2017.

Design/methodology/approach

Three techniques were used which include multivariate discriminant analysis (MDA), logit regression and multilayer perceptron artificial neural networks. The accounting data of firms were selected one year before the bankruptcy.

Findings

Findings were obtained by comparing and analyzing the methods which show that neural networks model outperforms in the prediction of bankruptcy. They further conclude that profitability and leverage indicators have the power of discrimination in bankruptcy prediction and the best variables to predict financial distress are also found and indicated.

Practical implications

Practically, this study may help the firms to better anticipate the risks of getting bankrupt by choosing the right method and to make effective decision making for organizational sustainability.

Originality/value

Three different techniques were used in this research to predict the bankruptcy of non-financial sector in Pakistan to make an effective prediction.
Role of anthropomorphization on pro-social behavior
Authors: Tapar Archit Vinod , Mishra Abhishek , Sadh Ashish , Billore Aditya
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effect of anthropomorphic entities in the public service advertisements (PSA) on individuals’ pro-social behavior. In addition, the role of individuals’ need for affect and self-construal in moderating the effect of anthropomorphism toward pro-social behavior is explored.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental research design is executed to identify the causal relationship between anthropomorphic representations in the advertisements and pro-social behavior.

Findings

The findings suggest that anthropomorphism in PSA is helpful in increasing compliance behavior amongst individuals. Besides, an individual’s need for affect was found to positively moderate pro-social behavior.

Research/limitations implications

The authors extend the existing literature on the usage of anthropomorphism in social causes. The authors also explore the role of one of the intrinsic motivations, need for affect, in pro-social behavior.

Social implications

The study demonstrates how best one could use anthropomorphization in PSA by sensitizing individuals to social causes and compliance behavior.

Originality/value

The study builds upon the existing research on anthropomorphization, need for affect and pro-social behavior in increasing compliance with PSA.
Market coopetition
Authors: Sahlan Mohd Khairulnizam , Abu-Hussin Mohd Fauzi , Hehsan Aminudin
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore coopetition, a strategy that combines cooperation and competition, in addressing relationships between small grocery retailers. Using coopetition as an underlying concept, this study examines how religious influences play a role in determining business strategies for grocery retailers.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper integrates the concept of coopetition into a definition that holds for coopetitive interactions across small-scale retailers. The study uses a qualitative multi-case methodology to gather data regarding horizontal channel relationships in retailing. A preliminary pilot study was conducted to gain a clearer understanding and develop a basic information pattern for the relationship between Halal Mart retailers and coopetition.

Findings

Preliminary findings have shown that halal mart retailers at Muslim marts may have involvement with four categories of business relationships (cooperation, competition, coexistence and coopetition).

Originality/value

This paper provides a conceptual understanding of coopetition among small firms, which have not received much focus in the literature. The addition of religiosity extends the theory of coopetition beyond activity, actors and resources.
A framework for developing business intelligence systems: a knowledge perspective
Authors: Farzaneh Mandana , Isaai Mohammad Taghi , Arasti Mohammad Reza , Mehralian Gholamhossein
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to propose a framework for developing business intelligence systems (BIS).

Design/methodology/approach

Following a qualitative research method, a comprehensive framework at organizational and individual level, as well as team level, was developed.

Findings

The findings revealed that team-level influential factors play a more significant role in BIS development success. The results also indicate that BIS development relies on suppliers, customers and their relationships, whereas the supplier side has a more significant impact on determining successful development. Drawing on these findings, embedded knowledge, knowledge management process capability and project team members’ interaction were identified at team level on supplier side which significantly influence the success of BIS development.

Practical implications

This research provides insights into a framework toward successful development of BIS.

Originality/value

The findings of this exploratory study would be useful for planners and managers of BIS development projects to enhance success probability of such projects.
Anti-diabetes activity of Kombucha prepared from different snake fruit cultivars
Authors: Zubaidah Elok , Ifadah Raida Amelia , Kalsum Umi , Lyrawati Diana , Putri Widya Dwi Rukmi , Srianta Ignatius , Blanc Philippe J.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to study the anti-diabetes activity of the Kombucha prepared from different snake fruit cultivars.

Design/methodology/approach

The juices of snake fruits of Suwaru, Madura, Pondoh and Bali cultivars were fermented for 14 days. Anti-diabetes activity of the products was analyzed. Twenty-four male albino Wistar rats were used and randomly divided into six experimental groups, i.e. four groups of the diabetic rats treated with the Kombucha, plus the normal group and diabetic control group. The Kombucha were orally administered to the streptozotocin induced-diabetic rats at 5 mL/kg body weight per day during the 28-day experiment. The fasting plasma glucose (FPG), oxidative stress indices (superoxide dismutase [SOD] activity and Malondialdehyde [MDA] level) and lipid profile of the blood plasma were measured. The pancreas was used for immunohistochemical study and β-cells quantification. Data were analysed by ANOVA followed by Fisher test using Minitab version 16.0.

Findings

FPG of the diabetic rats treated with the Kombucha (110.3-189.3 mg/dL) was significantly lower (p= 0.000) than the diabetic control group (413.3 mg/dL). Those were in line with the number of pancreatic β-cells of 42.1 in diabetic rats that lower (p= 006) than those in treated the diabetic rats (61.2-73.5). The treated diabetic rats had lower oxidative stress (SOD activity: 20.9-44.6 unit/100 µL withp= 0.000; MDA level: 0.37-0.48 ng/100 µL withp= 0.000) than those in the diabetic rats (SOD activity: 18.7 unit/100µL; MDA level: 0.84 ng/100 µL). The treated diabetic rats also showed better lipid profile than those in the diabetic control rats. There were cultivar differences, and the Suwaru and Madura snake fruit Kombucha demonstrated the most potential for diabetes management.

Originality/value

This is the first study on in vivo anti-diabetes activity of snake fruit Kombucha prepared from different snake fruit cultivars.
Using calculations in the early phase of strategic capital investment projects – insights from the mining industry
Authors: Karlsson Bo , Kurkkio Monika
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and describe how calculations are used in the early phase of strategic capital investment projects (SCIPs) in the mining context and thereby create an understanding of what calculations do in these situations.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a case study based on interviews with project managers, controllers and top-level managers, as well as documents and observations.

Findings

The empirical evidence provides key insights into the different uses of calculations in the early phase of SCIPs in the mining industry. The authors found evidence that calculations in the early phase of SCIPs are used to generate ideas, support learning and discussions, evaluate decisions and act as a mediating device.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is based on a single organization, and therefore, the findings of the paper are limited to theoretical generalization.

Practical implications

The study has practical implications directed toward top management, controllers and project managers working with SCIPs. This study suggests that calculations in the early phase are used to unite and create a shared view in the early phase rather than to present rational answers to different investment decision. Calculations can also be used to direct attention toward important areas, sort out and prioritize among ideas, communicate a shared view and function as a template. Thus, calculations are essential in the early phase as they help to transform activities into actions.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the accounting literature in which it has been emphasized that we still know little of strategic capital budgeting processes, with insights into the multiple uses of calculations in the early phase of SCIPs. We also argue that calculations act as mediating devices in the early phase of SCIPs as they provide a common frame of reference and a basis for action.
Experimental investigation on the flow properties of sand granules in the process of sand mold printing
Authors: Guo Zhi , Shan Zhongde , Du Dong , Zhao Mengmeng , Zhang Milan
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to determine how the viscosity and curing agent content affect the flowability of moist silica sand granules. In addition, a coating device was designed according to the flow properties of silica sand granules.

Design/methodology/approach

The flowability of silica sand granules premixed with two curing agents of different viscosities is studied using a Jenike shear apparatus. An open-ended device was used in discharge testing of sand granules with a design based on the variable dip angle of the two plates and variable outlet size.

Findings

The test results show that increasing the curing agent content would significantly decrease the flowability of silica sand granules, and a curing agent of higher viscosity has a greater effect on the flowability of silica sand. The presence of a curing agent strengthens the cohesion among sand granules, lubricates them and restrains their deformation. The shape function of the coating device was obtained by theoretical derivation.

Practical implications

The flow properties provide a valuable theoretical guidance for the design of coating device for sand mold printing.

Originality/value

This paper deals with experimental work on flow properties of silica sand granules with different viscosities and curing agent content. The shape function of a wedge-shaped coating device is obtained based on experimental data.
SLM process parameters development of Cu-alloy Cu7.2Ni1.8Si1Cr
Authors: Palousek David , Kocica Martin , Pantelejev Libor , Klakurkova Lenka , Celko Ladislav , Koutny Daniel , Kaiser Jozef
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Materials with a high thermal conductivity, such as Cu-alloys hold the most interest to the plastic moulding industry. Additive manufacturing (AM), especially selective laser melting (SLM) of metals, allows the production of parts with complicated internal cooling and increased production efficiency. The portfolio of alloys for metal AM is limited and still missing process parameters for the processing of copper alloys. This paper aims to preview the process parameters of high-strength alloy Cu7.2Ni1.8Si1Cr processed by SLM.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental approach is adopted to investigate porosity and mechanical properties of SLM specimens and its comparison with standard material AMPCOLOY 944. Optimization of porosity was performed using line and cube specimens; mechanical properties and microstructure were evaluated by tensile testing and metallography.

Findings

Optimum processing parameters for fabrication of Cu-alloy specimens with a relative density of 99.95 per cent were identified, and no cracks were detected. Mechanical testing of SLM specimens showed the ultimate tensile strength, proof stress of 0.2 and elongation of 380, 545 MPa and 16.9 per cent. The alloy is suitable for laser AM, thanks to its processability at a relatively high laser scanning speeds and thus its promising price of part/costs ratio.

Research limitations/implications

The paper describes the initial state of research – the follow-up tests focussed on mechanical testing, fatigue and statistical evaluation need to be conducted. The process parameters are developed only for bulk geometry – optimal setup for lattice structures and thin walls has not been explored yet.

Practical implications

The research findings in this work could be used for production of 3D printed parts and after the tuning of additional parameters, e.g. for up- and down-skin zones, could be used for special application such as energy exchange.

Originality/value

This work produces the processing of new material suitable for laser AM. Cu7.2Ni1.8Si1Cr alloy could be the prospective material from the group of Cu alloys suitable for moulds manufacturing and thermal applications.
Agile feedback drives accountability and sustained behavior change
Authors: Church Allan H. , Dawson Lorraine M.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a data-driven approach to driving accountability for behavior change at the individual level, i.e. the “Development Check-In” (DCI). It has become an accepted reality that 70 per cent of all organizational change efforts fail. The reasons cited are many and include such factors as a lack of focus on the hard and soft sides of the organization, misaligned reward systems, disengaged leadership and new interventions introduced at the expense of existing efforts. While all of these are important, we argue that accountability is the most critical element for ensuring an intervention sticks and delivers lasting results.

Design/methodology/approach

The DCI reflects the principles of agility and accountability, and has been used with great success in a large consumer products organization. The paper begins with an overview of the need for feedback tools to drive accountability, followed by a discussion of the design and process of the DCI.

Findings

Highlights from the authors’ use of the customized process to measure and reinforce leader capability development over time are then provided. The paper concludes with some recommendations and additional considerations.

Originality/value

Behavior change is not easy and requires focus, direction and a way of measuring progress. The DCI is an example of an agile multi-rater feedback accountability mechanism that provides leaders and managers with targeted and positively oriented feedback to support their continued development. This type of tool can be used beyond leadership development for a variety of types of interventions because it is based on sound organization development principles.
Point cloud measurements-uncertainty calculation on spatial-feature based registration
Authors: Ding Lijun , Dai Shuguang , Mu Pingan
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Measurement uncertainty calculation is an important and complicated problem in digitised components inspection. In such inspections, a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) and laser scanner are usually used to get the surface point clouds of the component in different postures. Then, the point clouds are registered to construct fully connected point clouds of the component’s surfaces. However, in most cases, the measurement uncertainty is difficult to estimate after the scanned point cloud has been registered. This paper aims to propose a simplified method for calculating the uncertainty of point cloud measurements based on spatial feature registration.

Design/methodology/approach

In the proposed method, algorithmic models are used to calculate the point cloud measurement uncertainty based on noncontact measurements of the planes, lines and points of the component and spatial feature registration.

Findings

The measurement uncertainty based on spatial feature registration is related to the mutual position of registration features and the number of sensor commutation in the scanning process, but not to the spatial distribution of the measured feature. The results of experiments conducted verify the efficacy of the proposed method.

Originality/value

The proposed method provides an efficient algorithm for calculating the measurement uncertainty of registration point clouds based on part features, and therefore has important theoretical and practical significance in digitised components inspection.
Effects of Manufacturing Processing Conditions on Retronasal‐Aroma Odorants from a Milk Coffee Drink
Authors: Ikeda Michio , Akiyama Masayuki , Hirano Yuta , Miyaji Kazuhiro , Sugawara Yasunori , Imayoshi Yuriko , Iwabuchi Hisakatsu , Onodera Takeshi , Toko Kiyoshi
Published: October 2018

To develop a ready‐to‐drink (RTD) milk coffee that retains the original coffee flavor, the effects of manufacturing processing conditions on retronasal‐aroma (RA) odorants were investigated by gas chromatography‐olfactometry (CharmAnalysis™) using an RA simulator (RAS). Twenty‐nine of 33 odorants detected in the RAS effluent (RAS odorants) were identified. The detected odorants were classified into 19 odor‐description groups. The total odor intensity (charm value, CMV) of all coffee RAS odorants decreased approximately 68% following pH adjustment, whereas the total CMV increased 6% to 7% following ultra‐high‐temperature sterilization. The total CMV ratio (about 83%) of the milk coffee produced using a new blending‐after‐sterilization (BAS) process without pH adjustment of the coffee was greater than that (approximately 56%) prepared using a conventional blending‐before‐sterilization (BBS) process with pH adjustment. In BAS‐processed milk coffees, the total CMV ratio (91%) with infusion (INF)‐sterilized reconstituted milk (r‐milk) was greater than that (83%) of plate (PLT)‐sterilized r‐milk. Principal component analysis of odor‐description CMVs indicated that the effect of coffee pH adjustment on odor characteristics was greater than that of sterilization, that BAS and BBS samples differed, and that BAS milk coffee prepared using INF sterilization was more similar to homemade milk coffee (blending unsterilized coffee without pH adjustment with PLT‐sterilized milk) than milk coffee prepared using PLT sterilization. In conclusion, the BAS process using INF sterilization is superior for manufacturing RTD milk coffee that retains odor characteristics similar to targeted homemade milk coffee.

Practical Application

Ready‐to‐drink milk coffee beverages produced using conventional blending‐before‐sterilization methods do not retain their original coffee flavor following adjustment of the pH of the coffee during manufacturing. The use of newly developed blending‐after‐sterilization methods, by contrast, produces ready‐to‐drink milk coffee with an aroma more similar to that of homemade milk coffee, as demonstrated using an analytical system for characterizing food product aromas. The blending‐after‐sterilization process is now being used in Japan to produce ready‐to‐drink milk coffee beverages.
Technology in Diabetes Treatment: Update and Future
Authors: Schiel Ralf , Bambauer Rolf , Steveling Antje
Published: October 2018

Worldwide the number of people with diabetes mellitus is increasing. There are estimations that diabetes is one of the leading causes of death. The most important goals for the treatment of diabetes are self‐management of the disease and an optimal quality of diabetes control. In the therapy new technologies, like real‐time continuous interstitial glucose monitoring, continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), electronic tools for the monitoring of therapeutic approaches, automated bolus calculators for insulin and electronic tools for education and information of patients, have become widespread and play important roles. All these efforts are related to the interaction between patients, caregivers, scientists or researchers and industry. The presentation of different aspects of new technological approaches in the present article should give more information about different technologies. However, because of the rather quickly appearance of new technologies, the presentation can only be a spotlight. Further studies are mandatory to analyze the effects and long‐term benefits of each technology and electronic device.
Long‐term prognostic value of the FibroTest in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, compared to chronic hepatitis C, B, and alcoholic liver disease
Authors: Munteanu Mona , Pais Raluca , Peta Valentina , Deckmyn Olivier , Moussalli Joseph , Ngo Yen , Rudler Marika , Lebray Pascal , Charlotte Frederic , Thibault Vincent , Lucidarme Olivier , Ngo An , Imbert‐Bismut Françoise , Housset Chantal , Thabut Dominique , Ratziu Vlad , Poynard Thierry ,   the FibroFrance Group
Published: October 2018

Background

Although the FibroTest has been validated as a biomarker to determine the stage of fibrosis in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with results similar to those in chronic hepatitis C (CHC), B (CHB), and alcoholic liver disease (ALD), it has not yet been confirmed for the prediction of liver‐related death.

Aim

To validate the 10‐year prognostic value of FibroTest in NAFLD for the prediction of liver‐related death.

Method

Patients in the prospective FibroFrance cohort who underwent a FibroTest between 1997 and 2012 were pre‐included. Mortality status was obtained from physicians, hospitals or the national register. Survival analyses were based on univariate (Kaplan‐Meier, log rank, AUROC) and multivariate Cox risk ratio taking into account age, sex and response to anti‐viral treatment as covariates. The comparator was the performance of the FibroTest in CHC, the most validated population.

Results

7082 patients were included; 1079, 3449, 2051, and 503 with NAFLD, CHC, CHB, and ALD, respectively. Median (range) follow‐up was 6.0 years (0.1‐19.3). Ten year survival (95% CI) without liver‐related death in patients with NAFLD was 0.956 (0.940‐0.971; 38 events) and 0.832 (0.818‐0.847; 226 events; P = 0.004) in CHC. The prognostic value (AUROC / Cox risk ratio) of FibroTest in patients with NAFLD was 0.941 (0.905‐0.978)/1638 (342‐7839) and even higher than in patients with CHC 0.875 (0.849‐0.901; P = 0.01)/2657 (993‐6586).

Conclusions

The FibroTest has a high prognostic value in NAFLD for the prediction of liver‐related death. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01927133).