bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing information literacy skills among young information age students in Singapore
Authors: Foo Schubert , Majid Shaheen , Chang Yun Ke
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess knowledge of Singapore Grade 5 (11 years old) students’ understanding and proficiency in basic information literacy (IL) skills of defining information tasks, selecting information sources, seeking information from sources and synthesising and using information.

Design/methodology/approach

A 38-item multiple-choice question assessment instrument was used to assess the students’ IL skills based on the i-Competent IL model. The instrument first developed in 2010 was refined and expanded to increase the robustness and accuracy of assessment for the study. It was administered to 17 primary schools in Singapore in November 2015. The maximum possible score of 54 was scaled up to 100 to report the overall mean score for ease of reference and comparison. A total of 2,399 returns were obtained and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 22.0 to compute the mean scores, IL stage-level scores. The study also investigated for any significant differences in performance between male and female students, and students with or without access to the internet at home.

Findings

The students achieved an overall mean score of 53.39 which is below a recommended acceptable score of 60 or 70 advocated in a number of past studies. The two worst performing areas of IL skills were synthesising and using information and seeking information from sources with mean scores of 45.89 and 48.81, respectively. A review of the highest number of incorrect answers suggests that students had difficulty in identifying key information from an information task narrative, understanding the use of reference sources and role of librarians, distinguishing between a fact and opinion, and adopting the best strategy for searching. Girls outperformed boys with an overall mean score of 55.38 vs 51.50. Students with internet access at home fared better than those without access to it with a score of 53.67 vs 45.81. The overall poor results of the survey suggest an urgent need to review the IL education landscape in the Singapore school system, revisit polices, priorities and assess the relevance and effectiveness of the IL curriculum, practical hands-on classes, and interventions that are currently employed in schools.

Practical implications

The study helped identify areas of IL skills strengths and weakness among Grade 5 students in Singapore schools. It provides recommendations for follow up actions for education authority and schools to improve the situation.

Originality/value

This study was prompted to provide an assessment after a national IL initiative was launched in 2012 to inculcate IL skills among the school-going children as part of creating a value-driven education system. This is the first reported set of findings for a large-scale survey conducted to measure and ascertain the IL skills level among Grade 5 students.
Is a picture really worth a thousand words?
Authors: Leung Xi , Tanford Sarah , Jiang Lan
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the marketing effectiveness of hotel Facebook messages in terms of promoting favorable attitudes and behavior intentions among potential hotel guests

Design/methodology/approach

An online experiment was conducted with a three (message format) × three (message content), between-subjects factorial design in which three message formats, i.e. word/text, picture and weblink, and three types of message content, i.e. brand, product and interactive, were manipulated.

Findings

The findings indicate that the most effective message format is dependent upon its purpose. Picture messages are most effective for promoting the brand, whereas weblink messages influence intentions to book hotels based on product attributes. Electronic word-of-mouth intention is an important outcome of Facebook marketing, which can be strengthened by word messages and weblink messages about products.

Research limitations/implications

The major limitation of this study is that the study used pseudo Facebook pages and messages created for each experimental condition. Facebook pages can take many forms, so the findings may not generalize to other Facebook pages.

Practical implications

The findings of this study suggest several important practical implications for the hotel industry to leverage Facebook marketing. To foster favorable attitudes and build brand awareness, hotel marketers should include picture messages that prominently feature the brand image. To motivate booking a particular product, word messages describing product features should be provided, along with a weblink that takes the customer directly from product information to a hotel-booking engine.

Originality/value

Although preliminary research has been conducted on Facebook marketing activities, little is known about the effectiveness of Facebook messages. For example, do different types of messages have different effects on marketing effectiveness? What message type is most effective? Thus, the aim of this study is to investigate empirically the effects of different message types on marketing effectiveness. The results of this study will shed light on how hotels can post the most persuasive message content in the most effective message format on their Facebook pages to enhance their fans’ attitudes and increase their purchase intentions.
The influence of social media on the consumers’ hotel decision journey
Authors: Varkaris Eleftherios , Neuhofer Barbara
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore “how social media influence the way consumers search, evaluate and select a hotel within the ‘evaluation stage’ of the wider hotel decision-making process”.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory qualitative research has been carried out, conducting 12 individual face-to-face, semi-structured, in-depth interviews with social media users, followed by a qualitative thematic analysis.

Findings

Social media transform the consumers’ hotel decision journey by influencing the way consumers search, decide and book hotels. The findings reveal the determinants shaping this process, by shedding light on the perceived value of using social media, consumers’ information search behaviour “then and now”, the advantages and disadvantages of social media use for decision-making, their trustworthiness and the factors that influence the consumers’ hotel decision-journey. The findings are conceptualised in an integrated theoretical model, entitled “hotel consumer decision-journey through social media”.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s scope for qualitative in-depth insights into the “hotel consumer decision-journey through social media” asked for a compromise on a larger sample size and in turn the transferability of the theoretical model beyond service, hospitality and tourism consumer decision-making contexts.

Practical implications

This paper provides strategic implications for hospitality marketing and management for a better understanding of the influence of social media on the hotel customer decision journey. The study shows that a variety of social media with associated content sources and levels add to the complexity of hotel-related information search and decision behaviour. The developed framework not only helps hotel professionals understand consumers’ different levels (e.g. type of content, content source, content level) through which social media might influence decision-making. Various real-life scenarios presented also help practitioners understand the fine nuances of how consumers are influenced by social media and how this causes them to iteratively change their minds and make a final decision towards the rejection or selection of a hotel.

Originality/value

Consumers use social media for a wide spectrum of scenarios in tourism and hospitality, while the influence of social media on the consumers’ hotel decision-making process remains little understood. This study makes a theoretical contribution in that it addresses these existing gaps and bridges consumer behaviour and social media literature in the hotel context to shed light on the “hotel consumer decision journey through social media”. The core contribution is an integrated theoretical model and real-life scenarios that depict the impact of social media on the hotel decision-making.
Private club members’ perceptions of social media
Authors: Kim MiRan , Cichy Ronald
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Private club members belong to an organization where people with common interests, experiences, backgrounds and professions meet for social and recreational purposes. This study aims to examine the relationships among private club members’ perceptions of social media regarding perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment, attitude toward social media involvement and behavioral intention toward social media usage.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted among private club members across the USA (n = 571). The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings of this study center on the perceptions of club members and their beliefs and attitudes associated with their social media usage behavior. This study extends the social media literature by supporting previous studies that suggest a causal flow from perceived ease of use to intrinsic and extrinsic motivations (perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment) based on a motivational model.

Research limitations/implications

This study is meaningful for revealing the perceptions of private club members and their beliefs and attitudes associated with their social media usage behavior. It is untested whether this study’s model applies to other hospitality businesses. Future research could examine other segments and add other variables such as perceived security and trust.

Practical implications

This study can provide private club managers, and the members of the clubs that they lead, with a better understanding of online social media.

Originality/value

This study is one of a few empirical online social media studies in the area of the private club industry. This study seeks to provide baselines regarding social media perceptions and usage in the hospitality literature by providing a comprehensive model.
Transition from child to adult mental health services: a French retrospective survey
Authors: Schandrin Aurélie , Capdevielle Delphine , Boulenger Jean-Philippe , Batlaj-Lovichi Monique , Russet Frédérick , Purper-Ouakil Diane
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Adolescents and young adults’ mental health problems are an important health issue. However, the current organisation of the care pathway is not robust enough and transition between child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) and adult mental health services (AMHS) has been identified as a period of risk. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

A retrospective survey was conducted in Montpellier University Hospital concerning transitions organised between CAMHS and AMHS between 2008 and 2009. The aim was to assess if transitions met four criteria identified in literature as warranting an optimal transition.

Findings

In total, 31 transitions were included. Transition was accepted by AMHS in 90 per cent of cases but its organisation was rarely optimal. Relational continuity and transition planning were absent in 80 per cent of cases. The age boundary of 16 often justified the triggering of the transition regardless of patient’s needs. Discontinuity was observed in 48 per cent of transition cases, with an average gap of three months without care. Psychiatrists reported difficulties in working together. Finally, at the moment of the survey (one to three years later), 55 per cent of patients were lost to follow-up.

Research limitations/implications

This is a retrospective study on a small sample but it reveals important data about transition in France.

Practical implications

Transition process should include collaborative working between CAMHS and AMHS, with cross-agency working and periods of parallel care.

Social implications

Transition-related discontinuity of care is a major socioeconomic and societal challenge for the EU.

Originality/value

Data related to the collaboration between CAMHS and AMHS services are scarce, especially regarding the transition in France.
Student nurses’ preparation for psychiatric nursing practice: Malawian experiences
Authors: Bvumbwe Thokozani
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore newly graduated nurses’ experiences of their preparation for psychiatric nursing practice in Malawi. Knowledge of how basic or undergraduate nursing training programs prepare nurses for mental health services will inform educators to maximize the teaching and learning processes. Students are a key stakeholder in professional training hence an understanding of their experiences of training programs is critical.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative exploratory study was undertaken. In total, 16 newly graduated nurses with six months work experience at three psychiatric hospitals in Malawi were purposively sampled and recruited into the study. One to one interviews which lasted almost 45 minutes were conducted. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

Findings

Findings show that training programs fall short in preparing students for psychiatric nursing practice. Participants reported little attention to the specialty as compared to other specialties by educators. Inadequate academic support during practice sessions was highlighted by the majority of participants.

Research limitations/implications

The study needed to compare the findings with experiences of students who have been allocated to other nursing specialties.

Originality/value

Psychiatric nursing specialty remains the least preferred career choice for many nursing students. However, preservice nursing education programs are expected to socialize, motivate and prepare students for psychiatric practice as well. It is therefore critical to understand gaps that exist in student preparation for psychiatric nursing services in order to improve mental health training.
Human capital analytics: the winding road
Authors: Andersen Morten Kamp
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the question: human capital analytics (HR analytics) – are we there yet? It will seek to clarify what is meant by “being there yet” and it will argue that the most positive proponents for this field are way too optimistic about the current state and what impact it will have on HR in the short-to-medium term but that the long-term outlook remain positive for the field.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a viewpoint paper and the conclusions draw upon the author’s experience in the field.

Findings

It has been widely acknowledged that HR analytics is still a fairly immature field and has not yet reached its full potential. In this viewpoint, the author argues that the most positive proponents for this field are way too optimistic about the current state and what impact it will have on HR in the short-to-medium term but that the long-term outlook remains positive for the field. The author names four main reasons why HR analytics is still in its infancy: maturity, mindset, organization and competencies.

Practical implications

If these four aspects are addressed, the HR analytics function will be able to contribute much more to HR’s role as a value generator.

Originality/value

Focusing on these aspects will set HR analytics up for success and will lead to potentially large shareholder value creation.
The best practices to excel at people analytics
Authors: Green David
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Given its relative novelty, the field of people analytics remains rather obscure in terms of its success criteria. The purpose of this paper is to unveil some of the hidden secrets of people analytics.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the common characteristics of those companies who have already been successful with it in their operations to date.

Findings

These 16 best practices cover the role of the CHRO and the employees as well as HR’s general position within a company.

Practical implications

While not all of the 16 best practices need to be in place, incorporating a few of them will provide significant benefit to businesses and employees.

Social implications

While several of the best practices laid out in this paper directly impact personnel policies, they also all empower HR managers to be a force for good through optimised people analytics.

Originality/value

The paper presents a hitherto scattered set of best practices as forerunners in the novel field of people analytics.
Exploring generational cohort work satisfaction in hospital nurses
Authors: Gordon Pamela Ann
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Although extensive research exists regarding job satisfaction, many previous studies used a more restrictive, quantitative methodology. The purpose of this qualitative study is to capture the perceptions of hospital nurses within generational cohorts regarding their work satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

A preliminary qualitative, phenomenological study design explored hospital nurses’ work satisfaction within generational cohorts – Baby Boomers (1946-1964), Generation X (1965-1980) and Millennials (1981-2000). A South Florida hospital provided the venue for the research. In all, 15 full-time staff nurses, segmented into generational cohorts, participated in personal interviews to determine themes related to seven established factors of work satisfaction: pay, autonomy, task requirements, administration, doctor–nurse relationship, interaction and professional status.

Findings

An analysis of the transcribed interviews confirmed the importance of the seven factors of job satisfaction. Similarities and differences between the generational cohorts related to a combination of stages of life and generational attributes.

Practical implications

The results of any qualitative research relate only to the specific venue studied and are not generalizable. However, the information gleaned from this study is transferable and other organizations are encouraged to conduct their own research and compare the results.

Originality/value

This study is unique, as the seven factors from an extensively used and highly respected quantitative research instrument were applied as the basis for this qualitative inquiry into generational cohort job satisfaction in a hospital setting.
Collaborating with nurse leaders to develop patient safety practices
Authors: Kanerva Anne , Kivinen Tuula , Lammintakanen Johanna
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The organisational level and leadership development are crucial elements in advancing patient safety, because patient safety weaknesses are often caused by system failures. However, little is known about how frontline leader and director teams can be supported to develop patient safety practices. The purpose of this study is to describe the patient safety development process carried out by nursing leaders and directors. The research questions were: how the chosen development areas progressed in six months’ time and how nursing leaders view the participatory development process.

Design/methodology/approach

Participatory action research was used to engage frontline nursing leaders and directors into developing patient safety practices. Semi-structured group interviews (N = 10) were used in data collection at the end of a six-month action cycle, and data were analysed using content analysis.

Findings

The participatory development process enhanced collaboration and gave leaders insights into patient safety as a part of the hospital system and their role in advancing it. The chosen development areas advanced to different extents, with the greatest improvements in those areas with simple guidelines to follow and in which the leaders were most participative. The features of high-reliability organisation were moderately identified in the nursing leaders’ actions and views. For example, acting as a change agent to implement patient safety practices was challenging. Participatory methods can be used to support leaders into advancing patient safety. However, it is important that the participants are familiar with the method, and there are enough facilitators to steer development processes.

Originality/value

Research brings more knowledge of how leaders can increase their effectiveness in advancing patient safety and promoting high-reliability organisation features in the healthcare organisation.
Use of evidence-based management in healthcare administration decision-making
Authors: Guo Ruiling , Berkshire Steven D. , Fulton Lawrence V. , Hermanson Patrick M.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether healthcare leaders use evidence-based management (EBMgt) when facing major decisions and what types of evidence healthcare administrators consult during their decision-making. This study also intends to identify any relationship that might exist among adoption of EBMgt in healthcare management, attitudes towards EBMgt, demographic characteristics and organizational characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was conducted among US healthcare leaders. Spearman’s correlation and logistic regression were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 23.0.

Findings

One hundred and fifty-four healthcare leaders completed the survey. The study results indicated that 90 per cent of the participants self-reported having used an EBMgt approach for decision-making. Professional experiences (87 per cent), organizational data (84 per cent) and stakeholders’ values (63 per cent) were the top three types of evidence consulted daily and weekly for decision-making. Case study (75 per cent) and scientific research findings (75 per cent) were the top two types of evidence consulted monthly or less than once a month. An exploratory, stepwise logistic regression model correctly classified 75.3 per cent of all observations for a dichotomous “use of EBMgt” response variable using three independent variables: attitude towards EBMgt, number of employees in the organization and the job position. Spearman’s correlation indicated statistically significant relationships between healthcare leaders’ use of EBMgt and healthcare organization bed size (rs = 0.217, n = 152, p < 0.01), attitude towards EBMgt (rs = 0.517, n = 152, p < 0.01), and the number of organization employees (rs = 0.195, n = 152, p = 0.016).

Originality/value

This study generated new research findings on the practice of EBMgt in US healthcare administration decision-making.
Bringing voice in policy building
Authors: Lotrecchiano Gaetano R. , Kane Mary , Zocchi Mark S. , Gosa Jessica , Lazar Danielle , Pines Jesse M.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the use of group concept mapping (GCM) as a tool for developing a conceptual model of an episode of acute, unscheduled care from illness or injury to outcomes such as recovery, death and chronic illness.

Design/methodology/approach

After generating a literature review drafting an initial conceptual model, GCM software (CS Global MAXTM) is used to organize and identify strengths and directionality between concepts generated through feedback about the model from several stakeholder groups: acute care and non-acute care providers, patients, payers and policymakers. Through online and in-person population-specific focus groups, the GCM approach seeks feedback, assigned relationships and articulated priorities from participants to produce an output map that described overarching concepts and relationships within and across subsamples.

Findings

A clustered concept map made up of relational data points that produced a taxonomy of feedback was used to update the model for use in soliciting additional feedback from two technical expert panels (TEPs), and finally, a public comment exercise was performed. The results were a stakeholder-informed improved model for an acute care episode, identified factors that influence process and outcomes, and policy recommendations, which were delivered to the Department of Health and Human Services’s (DHHS) Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response.

Practical implications

This study provides an example of the value of cross-population multi-stakeholder input to increase voice in shared problem health stakeholder groups.

Originality/value

This paper provides GCM results and a visual analysis of the relational characteristics both within and across sub-populations involved in the study. It also provides an assessment of observational key factors supporting how different stakeholder voices can be integrated to inform model development and policy recommendations.
Selective laser melting of nickel powder
Authors: Yap Chor Yen , Tan Hongyi Kenneth , Du Zhenglin , Chua Chee Kai , Dong Zhili
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Selective laser melting (SLM) is an additive manufacturing technology that is gaining industrial and research interest as it can directly fabricate near full density metallic components. The paper aims to identify suitable process parameters for SLM of processing of pure nickel powder and to study the microstructure of such products. The study also aims to characterize the microhardness and tensile properties of pure nickel produced by SLM.

Design/methodology/approach

A 24 factorial design experiment was carried out to identify the most significant factors on the resultant porosity of nickel parts. A subsequent experiment was carried out with a laser power of 350 W. The scanning speeds and hatch spacings were varied.

Findings

Scanning speed and hatch spacing have significant effects on the porosity of SLM components. A high relative density of 98.9 per cent was achieved, and microhardness of 140 to 160 Hv was obtained from these samples. A tensile strength 452 MPa was obtained.

Research limitations/implications

As the energy input levels were made in steps of 20 J/mm3 for the optimization study, the true optimal combination of parameters may have been missed. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the parameters with smaller variations in energy levels.

Practical implications

The paper provides a set of optimized parameters for the SLM of pure nickel. This study enables the three-dimensional (3D) printing of objects with nickel, which has applications in chemical catalyses and in microelectromechanical systems with its magnetostrictive properties.

Originality value

This research is the first in direct processing of pure nickel using SLM, with the identification of suitable process parameters. The study also provides an understanding of the porosity, microhardness, strength and microstructure of SLM produced nickel parts. This work paves the way for standardization of 3D printed nickel components and enables the applications of pure nickel via SLM.
On the use of high viscosity polymers in the fused filament fabrication process
Authors: Khaliq Muhammad Hussam , Gomes Rui , Fernandes Célio , Nóbrega João , Carneiro Olga Sousa , Ferrás Luis Lima
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This work aims to provide additional insights regarding the practicability of using conventional materials in the fused filament fabrication (FFF) process.

Design/methodology/approach

Two different acrylonitryle butadiene styrene (ABS) grades are studied and compared, aiming to check to what extent the regular ABS developed for conventional polymer processing, with a different rheology than the one provided for the FFF process, can also be used in this process (FFF).

Findings

The rheological results show that a general-purpose ABS (ABS-GP) melt is much more viscous and elastic than ABS-FFF. It is clear that using ABS-GP as feedstock material in the FFF process results in poor coalescence and adhesion between the extruded filaments, which has a detrimental effect on the mechanical properties of the printed specimens. Despite its lower performance, ABS-GP can be a good choice if the objective is to produce an aesthetical prototype. If the objective is to produce a functional prototype or a final part, its mechanical performance requirements will dictate the choice.

Originality/value

This work provides insightful information regarding the use of high viscosity materials on the 3D printing process.
A functional methodology on the manufacturing of customized polymeric cranial prostheses from CAT using SPIF
Authors: Centeno Gabriel , Morales-Palma Domingo , Gonzalez-Perez-Somarriba Borja , Bagudanch Isabel , Egea-Guerrero Juan José , Gonzalez-Perez Luis Miguel , García-Romeu María Luisa , Vallellano Carpóforo
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a functional methodology to produce cranial prostheses in polymeric sheet. Within the scope of rapid prototyping technologies, the single-point incremental forming (SPIF) process is used to demonstrate its capabilities to perform customized medical parts.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology starts processing a patient’s computerized axial tomography (CAT) and follows with a computer-aided design and manufacture (CAD/CAM) procedure, which finally permits the successful manufacturing of a customized prosthesis for a specific cranial area.

Findings

The formability of a series of polymeric sheets is determined and the most restrictive material among them is selected for the fabrication of a specific partial cranial prosthesis following the required geometry. The final strain state at the outer surface of the prosthesis is analysed, showing the high potential of SPIF in manufacturing individualized cranial prostheses from polymeric sheet.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a complete methodology to design and manufacture polymer customized cranial prostheses from patients’ CATs using the novel SPIF technology. This is an application of a new class of materials to the manufacturing of medical prostheses by SPIF, which to this purpose has been mainly making use of metallic materials so far. Despite the use of polymers to this application is still to be validated from a medical point of view, transparent prostheses can already be of great interest in medical or engineering schools for teaching and research purposes.
Direct global editing of STL mesh model for product design and rapid prototyping
Authors: Adhikary N. , Gurumoorthy B.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to propose an automatic and direct method to manipulate global parameters of the object for prototyping and simulation, given an STL mesh model of a thin-walled object. Proposed method is useful in rapid prototyping, where changing the global parameters such as thickness, scaling local features or draft of walls of an STL mesh is often required. Presently, user needs to iterate over the cycle of modification of the computer-aided design (CAD) model and tessellating it to change the global parameters. The proposed algorithm eliminates the need for CAD model while manipulating those global properties, as it works directly with the mesh model.

Design/methodology/approach

Proposed algorithm automatically identifies walls and its thickness, and then, it extracts mid-surface from each wall. Global parameters are then modified by using these mid-surfaces.

Findings

Mesh directly modified and the mesh obtained by tessellating modified CAD model has same global properties; proposed method can also allow multiple parameters to be modified at the same time.

Research limitations/implications

Input STL model is assumed to be error-free, where models containing errors like self-intersection will lead to incorrect mid-surfaces. Present algorithm assumes that the mid-surface represent of the input STL model is a manifold surface.

Originality/value

A novel algorithm of directly manipulating global parameters of a thin-walled object in its STL mesh model is proposed. The paper also presents a novel method of extracting mid-surface representation from a thin-wall STL mesh.
Influence of CT parameters on STL model accuracy
Authors: van Eijnatten Maureen , Berger Ferco Henricus , de Graaf Pim , Koivisto Juha , Forouzanfar Tymour , Wolff Jan
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Additive manufactured (AM) skull models are increasingly used to plan complex surgical cases and design custom implants. The accuracy of such constructs depends on the standard tessellation language (STL) model, which is commonly obtained from computed tomography (CT) data. The aims of this study were to assess the image quality and the accuracy of STL models acquired using different CT scanners and acquisition parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

Images of three dry human skulls were acquired using two multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) scanners, a dual energy computed tomography (DECT) scanner and one cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanner. Different scanning protocols were used on each scanner. All images were ranked according to their image quality and converted into STL models. The STL models were compared to gold standard models.

Findings

Image quality differed between the MDCT, DECT and CBCT scanners. Images acquired using low-dose MDCT protocols were preferred over images acquired using routine protocols. All CT-based STL models demonstrated non-uniform geometrical deviations of up to +0.9 mm. The largest deviations were observed in CBCT-derived STL models.

Practical implications

While patient-specific AM constructs can be fabricated with great accuracy using AM technologies, their design is more challenging because it is dictated by the correctness of the STL model. Inaccurate STL models can lead to ill-fitting implants that can cause complications after surgery.

Originality/value

This paper suggests that CT imaging technologies and their acquisition parameters affect the accuracy of medical AM constructs.
Experimental investigation for dynamic stiffness and dimensional accuracy of FDM manufactured part using IV-Optimal response surface design
Authors: Mohamed Omar Ahmed , Masood Syed Hasan , Bhowmik Jahar Lal
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) has become an increasingly important process among the available additive manufacturing technologies in various industries. Although there are many advantages of FDM process, a downside of its industrial application is the attainable dimensional accuracy with tight tolerance without compromising the mechanical performance. This paper aims to study the effects of six FDM operating parameters on two conflicting responses, namely, dynamic stiffness and dimensional stability of FDM produced PC-ABS parts. This study also aims to determine the optimal process settings using graphical optimization that satisfy the dynamic mechanical properties without compromising the dimensional accuracy.

Design/methodology/approach

The regression models based upon IV-optimal response surface methodology are developed to study the variation of dimensional accuracy and dynamic mechanical properties with changes in process parameter settings. Statistical analysis was conducted to establish the relationships between process variables and dimensional accuracy and dynamic stiffness. Analysis of variance is used to define the level of significance of the FDM operating parameters. Scanning electron microscope and Leica MZ6 optical microscope are used to examine and characterize the morphology of the structures for some specimens.

Findings

Experimental results highlight the individual and interaction effects of processing conditions on the dynamic stiffness and part accuracy. The results showed that layer thickness (slice height), raster-to-raster air gap and number of outlines have the largest effect on the dynamic stiffness and dimensional accuracy. The results also showed an interesting phenomenon of the effect of number of contours and the influence of other process parameters. The optimal process conditions for highest mechanical performance and part accuracy are obtained.

Originality/value

The effect of FDM processing parameters on the properties under dynamic and cyclic loading conditions has not been studied in the previous published work. Furthermore, simultaneous optimization of dynamic mechanical properties without compromising the dimensional accuracy has also been investigated. On the basis of experimental findings, it is possible to provide practical suggestions to set the optimal FDM process parameters in relation to dynamic mechanical performance, as well as the dimensional accuracy.
Intrapreneurial behaviour: the role of organizational commitment
Authors: Farrukh Muhammad , Chong Wei Ying , Mansori Shaheen , Ravan Ramzani Sara
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the impact of organizational commitment (OC) on the intrapreneurial behaviour of the employees in higher educational institutes (HEIs) of Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper opted the empirical study using the survey approach. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the questionnaires completed the Deans/Head of Schools, professors and associate professors of the 20 public HEIs of Pakistan located in the capital city, Islamabad. In total, 500 structured questionnaires were sent to the Deans/Head of Schools, professors and associate professors. A total of 306 responses were received.

Findings

Affective commitment (AC) and normative commitment (NC) has a positive and significant impact on the intrapreneurial behaviour while continuance commitment (CC) is negatively associated with the same behaviour.

Originality/value

This empirical study will contribute to the theoretical knowledge on intrapreneurship and OC in the public sector HEIs, which has been neglected in entrepreneurship research.
The impact of artisanal small-scale mining on sustainable livelihoods
Authors: Yaaba Baah-Ennumh Theresa , Forson Joseph Ato
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the impact of artisanal small-scale mining (ASM) on sustainable livelihoods in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality of Ghana. The study seeks to answer the following questions: what is the impact of ASM on livelihoods in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality? What measures could be put in place to ensure the sustainability of livelihoods in the municipality?

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach to inquiry was used in the study. The authors used interview guides (structured and unstructured) to collect primary data from a sample of 400 household heads, 19 institutions, six ASM firms, six mineral processing companies, and two gold-buying agents, and traditional authorities from the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality.

Findings

The findings of the study indicate among other things that land has been rendered unproductive due to the inability of the dominant ASM firms to reclaim lands after mining. The workers’ exposure to cyanide and mercury makes them vulnerable to all manner of health risks, which is a threat to the sustenance of livelihoods. Owing to the unsustainable nature of mining activities, the future indicates not only increases in unemployment but also environmental degradation and health concerns.

Originality/value

The paper contains a significant new perspective of knowledge especially by contextualising sustainable development with ASM. This is an area that has largely been ignored by development researchers. The paper further emphasises the need for policy makers to evolve and embrace developmental approach that is intergenerational.
Taking Responsibility: Psychological and Attitudinal Change through a Domestic Violence Intervention Program in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Broady Timothy R. , Gray Rebecca M.
Published: May 2017

Literature widely reports the negative impacts of domestic violence at individual, family, and societal levels. Intervention programs that effectively assist violent men to develop alternate ways of relating, and thus enhance the safety of women and children, are of significant value to governments and the community. This study evaluates the effectiveness of one such program in promoting change in relevant attitudes and psychological constructs. Program participants completed pre- and post-group surveys containing validated scales that measured their gender equity beliefs, self-esteem, mastery, and psychological distress. Over the duration of program attendance, positive changes were evident regarding men’s self-esteem, mastery, and psychological distress, however, no significant change in gender equity beliefs was apparent. The positive changes evident amongst participants indicate beneficial outcomes from group work participation in areas that have been identified as risk factors for violent behaviour.  The results also suggest that intervention programs would benefit from an increased focus on gender equity beliefs, and that further research is necessary on the extent to which this focus could improve attitudes, and consequently promote safety for women and children.
Major Determinant of Physical Development on Urban Residential Land: The Case of Kalulushi Municipality in Zambia
Authors: Munshifwa Ephraim Kabunda , Ngoma Wilson , Makenja Ikugile
Published: May 2017

The debate on "property" as opposed to "possession" has grown in institutional economics literature. In the real estate development context this can be extended to examining the question on what the major determinant of commencement of physical development (or 'house starts') is between 'property' and 'possession' in the minds of residential allotees on urban land. For land acquired through extra-legal mechanisms, economists, such as Hermandode Soto, have argued that lack of title impedes physical development in urban areas. What about on land acquired through legal means? This study examined this question by conceptualising land grants through the public land allocation system as having two distinct parts, possession, that is grants still at offer letter stage and property, constituting grants where legal title in the form of certificates of title have been registered. The observation in Zambia is that physical development commences with or without certificates of title, that is, mostly at possession stage. This study finds that contrary to conventional literature, titling is not the immediate concern for most allotees on public land. The first concern is development of the plot then followed by title. A number of reasons account for this and are explained in this paper. Thus the study hypothesised that although in the long run legal title is essential, possession is more important for the commencement of physical development in most developing countries such as Zambia.
Second flip in the Hassett–Keel program: a local description
Authors: Alper Jarod , Fedorchuk Maksym , Smyth David Ishii , van der Wyck Frederick
Published: May 2017

This is the first of three papers in which we give a moduli interpretation of the second flip in the log minimal model program for $\overline{M}_{g}$, replacing the locus of curves with a genus $2$ Weierstrass tail by a locus of curves with a ramphoid cusp. In this paper, for $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}\in (2/3-\unicode[STIX]{x1D716},2/3+\unicode[STIX]{x1D716})$, we introduce new $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}$-stability conditions for curves and prove that they are deformation open. This yields algebraic stacks $\overline{{\mathcal{M}}}_{g}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC})$ related by open immersions $\overline{{\mathcal{M}}}_{g}(2/3+\unicode[STIX]{x1D716}){\hookrightarrow}\overline{{\mathcal{M}}}_{g}(2/3){\hookleftarrow}\overline{{\mathcal{M}}}_{g}(2/3-\unicode[STIX]{x1D716})$. We prove that around a curve $C$ corresponding to a closed point in $\overline{{\mathcal{M}}}_{g}(2/3)$, these open immersions are locally modeled by variation of geometric invariant theory for the action of $\text{Aut}(C)$ on the first-order deformation space of $C$.
Photothermal Properties of Near-Spherical Gold Nanofluids With Strong Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance
Authors: Lingling Wang , Guihua Zhu , Wei Yu , Dahai Zhu , Yingchun Zhang , Liye Zhang , Huaqing Xie
Published: May 2017

Near-spherical gold nanoparticles were synthesized using a facile chemical reduction method. The optical properties, size, and morphology of nanofluids were characterized using ultraviolet–visible–near-infrared (UV–Vis–NIR) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscope (TEM). All the gold nanofluids showed better photothermal conversion characteristics than H2O due to the strong localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect. The increase in gold nanoparticles diameters resulted in lower photothermal conversion properties, so the appropriate reducing agents have great influence on the optical properties of gold nanofluids in our experimental system. Trisodium citrate is the optimum reducing agents compared with NaBH4 and ascorbic acid (AA).
Thermodynamics Analyses of Porous Microchannels With Asymmetric Thick Walls and Exothermicity: An Entropic Model of Microreactors
Authors: Elliott Alexander , Torabi Mohsen , Karimi Nader
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a study of the thermal characteristics and entropy generation of a porous microchannel with thick walls featuring uneven thicknesses. Two sets of asymmetric boundary conditions are considered. The first includes constant temperatures at the surface of the outer walls, with the lower wall experiencing a higher temperature than the upper wall. The second case imposes a constant heat flux on the lower wall and a convection boundary condition on the upper wall. These set thermal models for microreactors featuring highly exothermic or endothermic reactions such as those encountered in fuel reforming processes. The porous system is considered to be under local thermal nonequilibrium (LTNE) condition. Analytical solutions are, primarily, developed for the temperature and local entropy fields and then are extended to the total entropy generation within the system. It is shown that the ratio of the solid to fluid effective thermal conductivity and the internal heat sources are the most influential parameters in the thermal and entropic behaviors of the system. In particular, the results demonstrate that the internal heat sources can affect the entropy generation in a nonmonotonic way and that the variation of the total entropy with internal heat sources may include extremum points.
Electrothermal Transport in Biological Systems: An Analytical Approach for Electrokinetically Modulated Peristaltic Flow
Authors: Tripathi Dharmendra , Sharma Ashish , Anwar Bég O. , Tiwari Abhishek
Published: May 2017

A mathematical model is presented to study the combined viscous electro-osmotic (EO) flow and heat transfer in a finite length microchannel with peristaltic wavy walls in the presence of Joule heating. The unsteady two-dimensional conservation equations for mass, momentum, and energy conservation with viscous dissipation, heat absorption, and electrokinetic body force, are formulated in a Cartesian co-ordinate system. Both single and train wave propagations are considered. The electrical field terms are rendered into electrical potential terms via the Poisson–Boltzmann equation, Debye length approximation, and ionic Nernst Planck equation. A parametric study is conducted to evaluate the impact of isothermal Joule heating and electro-osmotic velocity on axial velocity, temperature distribution, pressure difference, volumetric flow rate, skin friction, Nusselt number, and streamline distributions.