bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymmetric skew X-ray diffraction at fixed incidence angle: application to semiconductor nano-objects
Authors: Grigoriev D. , Lazarev S. , Schroth P. , Minkevich A.A. , Köhl M. , Slobodskyy T. , Helfrich M. , Schaadt D.M. , Aschenbrenner T. , Hommel D. , Baumbach T.
Published: May 2016

A procedure for obtaining three-dimensionally resolved reciprocal-space maps in a skew X-ray diffraction geometry is described. The geometry allows tuning of the information depth in the range from tens of micrometres for symmetric skew diffraction down to tens of nanometres for strongly asymmetric skew geometries, where the angle of incidence is below the critical angle of total external reflection. The diffraction data are processed using a rotation matrix formalism. The whole three-dimensional reciprocal-space map can be measured by performing a single azimuthal rotation of the sample and using a two-dimensional detector, while keeping the angle of incidence and the X-ray information depth fixed (FIXD method). Having a high surface sensitivity under grazing-incidence conditions, the FIXD method can be applied to a large variety of Bragg reflections, particularly polar ones, which provide information on strain and chemical composition separately. In contrast with conventional grazing-incidence diffraction, the FIXD approach reveals, in addition to the lateral (in-plane) components, the vertical (out-of-plane) component of the strain field, and therefore allows the separation of the scattering contributions of strained epitaxial nanostructures by their vertical misfit. The potential of FIXD is demonstrated by resolving the diffraction signal from a single layer of InGaN quantum dots grown on a GaN buffer layer. The FIXD approach is suited to the study of free-standing and covered near-surface nano-objects, as well as vertically extended multilayer structures.
Putative thioredoxin Trx1 fromThermosipho africanusstrain TCF52B: expression, purification and structural determination using S-SAD
Authors: Sahtout Naheda , Kuttiyatveetil Jijin R. A. , Fodje Michel , Sanders David A. R.
Published: May 2016

Thioredoxin is a small ubiquitous protein that plays a role in many biological processes. A putative thioredoxin, Trx1, fromThermosipho africanusstrain TCF52B, which has low sequence identity to its closest homologues, was successfully cloned, overexpressed and purified. The protein was crystallized using the microbatch-under-oil technique at 289 K in a variety of conditions; crystals grown in 0.2 MMgCl2, 0.1 Mbis-tris pH 6.5, 25%(w/v) PEG 3350, which grew as irregular trapezoids to maximum dimensions of 1.2 × 1.5 × 0.80 mm, were used for sulfur single-wavelength anomalous dispersion analysis. The anomalous sulfur signal could be detected to 2.83 Å resolution using synchrotron radiation on the 08B1-1 beamline at the Canadian Light Source. The crystals belonged to space groupP212121, with unit-cell parametersa= 40.6,b= 41.5,c= 56.4 Å, α = β = γ = 90.0°.
5-Bromo-1-methylindoline-2,3-dione
Authors: Kharbach Yassine , Haoudi Amal , Capet Frédéric , Mazzah Ahmed , El Ammari Lahcen
Published: May 2016

In the title compound, C9H6BrNO2, the indoline ring system, the two ketone O atoms and the Br atom are nearly coplanar, with the largest deviation from the mean plane being −0.1025 (4) Å. In the crystal, molecules are linked by two weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds and π–π interactions [inter-centroid distance = 3.510 (2) Å], forming a three-dimensional structure.
2-Amino-4-methoxy-6-methylpyrimidinium hydrogen phthalate
Authors: Sangeetha Ramalingam , Edison Bellarmin , Thanikasalam Kanagasabapathy , Kavitha Savaridasson Jose , Balasubramani Kasthuri
Published: May 2016

In the hydrogen phthalate anion of the title molecular salt, C6H10N3O+·C8H5O4−, the dihedral angles formed by the benzene ring and the mean planes of the –COOH and –COO−groups are 16.1 (3) and 19.8 (3)°, respectively. There is an intramolecular O—H...O hydrogen bond in the anion generating anS(7) ring motif. In the crystal, the protonated N atom of the pyrimidinium ring and the 2-amino group of the cation are hydrogen bonded to the carboxylate O atoms of the anionviaa pair of N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming anR22(8) ring motif. The ion pairs are further connectedviaN—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming ribbons parallel to the [01-1] direction. The ribbons are linked by off-set π–π stacking interactions [intercentroid distances = 3.8279 (16) and 3.6074 (15) Å], forming a three-dimensional structure.
Hospitality entrepreneurship: a link in the career chain
Authors: Andringa Siets , Poulston Jill , Pernecky Tomas
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the motivational factors behind the transition of successful hospitality entrepreneurs in New Zealand, back into paid employment.

Design/methodology/approach

In all, 16 interviewees were recruited using the snowball technique and their stories examined using a narrative analysis technique.

Findings

Motivational factors were categorised into seven themes of family, work–life balance, health and stress, age, planned exit, stagnation and intuition. Poor work–life balance was identified as a consistent factor in decisions to sell hospitality businesses. Although lifestyles were self-imposed, they were exacerbated by the conflicting needs of family, customers and the owners themselves, several of whom worked to exhaustion.

Research limitations/implications

Implications for prospective entrepreneurs include considerations of work–life balance and the true costs of hospitality business ownership.

Originality/value

This is the first study of motivations for leaving a successful hospitality business and moving into paid employment. As research is sparse on reasons for this transition, this study provides an understanding of this phenomenon and insights into the extraordinary challenges of hospitality entrepreneurship in New Zealand.
Timeshare research: a synthesis of forty years of publications
Authors: Gregory Amy M. , Weinland Jeffrey
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to facilitate an immediate immersion of academic literature in the timeshare/vacation ownership industry. Through a synthesis of 92 articles published in academic journals over the past 40 years, the authors demonstrate the breadth of the current research. Topical areas, methodologies and findings are presented, as well as opportunities for further investigation. This paper also provides the reader with a robust consolidation of literature in a tabular form to include authors, publication dates, sources and titles.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a comprehensive search of multiple academic research databases, university catalogues and references of existing literature and conference proceedings, the authors compiled a review of timeshare research with the aim of classifying the various components and issues that have been examined to date.

Findings

The timeshare segment of the greater lodging industry is unique due to its real estate ownership component, complex management characteristics and regulatory environment. The unique nature appeals to researchers and provides an opportunity for investigation of generally accepted theories and principles. The literature follows industry advances in the segment, with the majority of research focused on sales and marketing practices, and resort services and operations. An abundance of future research opportunities is identified in the literature, to which only a few have been addressed.

Originality/value

A synthesis of timeshare literature has not been published to date, either in hospitality literature or in other fields of study, i.e. real estate. Therefore, the authors provide a foundation for researchers, academics and students to utilize in further study and investigation.
Assessing endogeneity issues in international marketing research
Authors: Jean Ruey-Jer "Bryan" , Deng Ziliang , Kim Daekwan , Yuan Xiaohui
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– Endogeneity is a potential threat to the validity of international marketing (IM) research. The purpose of this paper is to draw the attention of IM researchers to issues of endogeneity, to provide a comprehensive overview of the sources of endogeneity, and to discuss the statistical solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors conduct the research in two steps. In the first step, the authors review the nature and sources of endogeneity specifically in IM research. In the second step, the authors review 60 IM papers on endogeneity published in the period 1995-2014 and assess the current practice of addressing endogeneity in the IM literature.

Findings

– Sample selection bias and simultaneity are prevalent sources of endogeneity in IM research. Internationalization-performance relationship and innovation-export nexus are the two most frequently adopted models subject to potential endogeneity. Simply lagging the main independent variable is statistically flawed in dealing with endogeneity despite its popularity in IM research.

Research limitations/implications

– First, a careful choice and application of methods are critical when addressing endogeneity. Second, the authors suggest the employment of multiple study methods to address endogeneity robustly. Third, to prevent or solve endogeneity in structural equation modeling, researchers may either collect data on independent and dependent variables from different respondents or employ a two-stage least squares approach. Finally, it is helpful to design dedicated models to prevent proactively potential endogeneity a priori.

Originality/value

– The contribution of this study is twofold. First, it is the first in the literature to discuss the endogeneity issue specifically in IM research. In particular, the study elaborates the origins and consequences of the three most frequently confronted types of endogeneity in IM research. Second, the authors assess the four major methods of addressing endogeneity in IM research with a systematic discussion of the literature from the last two decades. The authors offer suggestions on how to minimize endogeneity in model design and empirical implementation for future IM research.
Testing measurement invariance of composites using partial least squares
Authors: Henseler Jörg , Ringle Christian M. , Sarstedt Marko
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– Research on international marketing usually involves comparing different groups of respondents. When using structural equation modeling (SEM), group comparisons can be misleading unless researchers establish the invariance of their measures. While methods have been proposed to analyze measurement invariance in common factor models, research lacks an approach in respect of composite models. The purpose of this paper is to present a novel three-step procedure to analyze the measurement invariance of composite models (MICOM) when using variance-based SEM, such as partial least squares (PLS) path modeling.

Design/methodology/approach

– A simulation study allows us to assess the suitability of the MICOM procedure to analyze the measurement invariance in PLS applications.

Findings

– The MICOM procedure appropriately identifies no, partial, and full measurement invariance.

Research limitations/implications

– The statistical power of the proposed tests requires further research, and researchers using the MICOM procedure should take potential type-II errors into account.

Originality/value

– The research presents a novel procedure to assess the measurement invariance in the context of composite models. Researchers in international marketing and other disciplines need to conduct this kind of assessment before undertaking multigroup analyses. They can use MICOM procedure as a standard means to assess the measurement invariance.
On designing an active tail for legged robots: simplifying control via decoupling of control objectives
Authors: Heim Steve W. , Ajallooeian Mostafa , Eckert Peter , Vespignani Massimo , Ijspeert Auke Jan
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the possible roles of active tails for steady-state legged locomotion, focusing on a design principle which simplifies control by decoupling different control objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of simple models are proposed which capture the dynamics of an idealized running system with an active tail. These models suggest that the overall control problem can be simplified and effectively decoupled via a proper tail design. This design principle is further explored in simulation using trajectory optimization. The results are then validated in hardware using a one degree-of-freedom active tail mounted on the quadruped robot Cheetah-Cub.

Findings

The results of this paper show that an active tail can greatly improve both forward velocity and reduce body-pitch per stride while adding minimal complexity. Further, the results validate the design principle of using long, light tails compared to shorter heavier ones.

Originality/value

This paper builds on previous results, with a new focus on steady-state locomotion and in particular deals directly with stance phase dynamics. A novel design principle for tails is proposed and validated.
Exploring the complexities of understanding vulnerability and adult safeguarding within Christian faith organisations
Authors: Oakley Lisa Ruth , Fenge Lee-Ann , Bass Simon , Humphreys Justin
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to report the findings from a study exploring the understanding of vulnerability and adult safeguarding within Christian faith-based settings. The paper concludes with recommendations for practitioners involved in safeguarding adults in faith-based Christian settings.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper considers a survey (n=3,182) into understanding of vulnerability and adult safeguarding for individuals who attend Church regularly or work in a Christian organisation

Findings

– This study is the first to be undertaken with a UK sample and highlights a range of factors informing adult safeguarding practice within Christian organisations. This includes: complexity linked to understanding vulnerability and its role in safeguarding activity; lack of clarity about what to do with a safeguarding adult concern; and the need for safeguarding training pertinent to the particular needs of faith-based settings.

Research limitations/implications

– As there is currently a dearth of research in this area this paper makes a valuable contribution to the developing knowledge base around safeguarding and vulnerability within faith-based organisations.

Practical implications

– Professionals need to develop increased understanding of the complexities involved in safeguarding activity, and specifically how those working in the wider context of supporting vulnerable adults make sense of safeguarding processes and procedures.

Social implications

– It is important that all organisations, including faith-based settings, working with adults have an understanding of their roles and responsibilities with respect to safeguarding those at risk of harm.

Originality/value

– This paper is the first UK study to consider safeguarding adults at risk of harm in Christian faith contexts.
A comparison effect of aircraft main gear configuration on runway damages by LED and FE method
Authors: Shafabakhsh Gholam Ali , Kashi Ehsan , Akbari Abbas
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to apply a pavement design by LEDFAA for a sample airport, and design results involving layer thickness, modulus and cumulative damage factor (CDF) achieved are shown in figures.

Design/methodology/approach

Finite element (FE) simulation is applied for sample airport pavement and based on results involving stress and strain, CDF amount is shown by using related equations. To analyze the accuracy of modeling, a comparison has been made between the values of ABAQUS and case study results at Denver International Airport (DIA).

Findings

The present study includes a comparison between the two conventional methods for runway pavement design. There is linear relation between layered elastic design (LED) and FE method results, so CDF rate achieved by the FE method is always smaller than the LED method. To assess the accuracy of the applied modeling with ABAQUS software, the validation was done using the deformations under the concrete slabs of DIA. The results are compatible with the results acquired from the case study, and the high accuracy of modeling was approved. This research shows that B-777 on rigid pavements and A-340-500/600 on flexible pavements have the most CDF contribution, among other aircrafts. Also, CDF rate for any aircraft in the LED method is higher than the FE method.

Originality/value

To assess the accuracy of the applied modeling with ABAQUS software, the validation was done using the deformations under the concrete slabs of DIA. The results are compatible with the results acquired from the case study, and the high accuracy of modeling was approved.
Hotel guest preferences of in-room technology amenities
Authors: Bilgihan Anil , Smith Scott , Ricci Peter , Bujisic Milos
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Advances in technology and in subsequent guest-related amenities have the potential to improve the guest experience and also increase both guestroom revenues and ancillary room revenues. Innovative technologies will be one of the prime differentiators of hotel companies in the twenty-first century. However, it is important for hoteliers to answer questions such as which technology amenities do their guests desire when choosing overnight accommodations? Further, what are the importance levels assigned by guests of these various technology amenities? This study aims to answer the question of how leisure travelers may differ or be similar to business travelers with regard to in-room technology amenities.

Design/methodology/approach

The target population of this study consisted of 2,500 US residents whose email addresses were randomly drawn from a national database company. A series oft-tests and ANOVA were conducted to answer the research questions.

Findings

High-speed internet access and guest device connectivity were perceived more important by business travelers than by leisure travelers.

Research limitations/implications

Recognizing guests’ technology needs and answering those needs are important for hotel operators to remain competitive. While some segments perceive more value in certain technologies, for others it might be an indifferent amenity.

Practical implications

The amount of time guests spend in their rooms directly correlates to increased revenues from in-room dining, in-room amenities offered and, in general, all pay-for-use products and services such as the internet and movies. Therefore, with the right assortment and offering of technology amenities, hotels will increase their revenues from these ancillary revenues. Moreover, a hotel property with the right mixture of desired in-room amenities and services can charge higher rates for their guestroom sales.

Originality/value

The results of this study provide insights into the changing attitudes toward in-room entertainment technology that many hotel developers should take note of.
Hotel website quality, perceived flow, customer satisfaction and purchase intention
Authors: Ali Faizan
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationships between hotel website quality, perceived flow, customer satisfaction and purchase intentions. Furthermore, this study also examines if perceived flow mediates the relationships between hotel website quality, customer satisfaction and purchase intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

The stimulus-organism-response framework is used as the theoretical framework for this study. A total of 441 valid online questionnaires were collected to empirically test the measurement and structural model using partial least square path modeling approach. The study sample includes hotel guests who booked their hotels via online travel agencies and/or hotel websites.

Findings

The findings confirm that hotel website quality influences customers’ perceived flow, which in turn, influences their satisfaction and purchase intention. Moreover, perceived flow also mediates the relationships between hotel website quality, customer satisfaction and purchase intentions.

Originality/value

Hotel website quality, perceived flow, customer satisfaction and purchase intentions altogether are not well understood in current literature despite the important implication for managers, academicians and consumers alike. This study contributes to the field of e-commerce marketing, retailing and e-tourism research.
Journeys into dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT): capturing the staff and service-user experience
Authors: Johnson Paula , Thomson Michaela
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the lived experiences of staff and service-users regarding the introduction of dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) into an NHS forensic learning disability (LD) service.

Design/methodology/approach

– Drawing on data from two recent qualitative research studies, the research team used a case-oriented approach to see beyond original findings to capture the shared experiences of the participants’ journeys, thus giving a deeper insight to the commonalities of the participants’ voices which is rarely reported in the literature (Sandelowski, 2011).

Findings

– A common set of phenomena became apparent when the cases were analysed, these included: trust, intensity and worthwhile. It is intended this paper gives some opportunity for reflection and shared empathetic responses to the similar experiences discussed.

Originality/value

– The case-orientated analysis adds value to the evidence base by highlighting the importance of the qualitative voice of both the staff and service user. This is important because most available literature reflects the process of setting up a team or DBT service, rather than describing the team experience. Equally, most published literature regarding the effectiveness of DBT is not written from the perspective of the people who receive the therapy.
Liaison and diversion services: embedding the role of learning disability nurses
Authors: Shaw Vanessa Louise
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to improve the health and criminal justice outcomes for people who come into contact with the criminal justice system. People with learning disabilities (LD) are particularly vulnerable to health and social inequalities within the criminal justice system.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using examples from practice, this paper discusses some of the challenges and achievements experienced by a LD nurse employed within a liaison and diversion service within the North-West of England.

Findings

– Whilst the specific functions of liaison and diversion practitioners are detailed by National Health Service (NHS) England (2014), complexities in communication, multi-disciplinary working and role recognition affect the embedment of the role in practice.

Research limitations/implications

– The implications for practice are identified and recommendations for further research made. These seek to evaluate the impact of liaison and diversion services from the perspectives of LD nurses within liaison and diversion services, people with LD, their families and the wider multi-disciplinary team.

Originality/value

– NHS England (2015) are in the process of evaluating of liaison and diversion services. This paper adds to the evaluation by discussing the experiences of a LD nurse within a liaison and diversion service through the inclusion of activity data and illustrative examples.
Characteristics of product introduction process in low-volume manufacturing industries
Authors: Javadi Siavash , Bruch Jessica , Bellgran Monica
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to understand how the characteristics of low-volume manufacturing industries influence the product introduction process and factors which can facilitate that process in low-volume manufacturing industries.

Design/methodology/approach

– A literature review and a multiple-case study were used to achieve the purpose of the paper. The multiple-case study was based on two product development projects in a low-volume manufacturing company.

Findings

– The main identified characteristics of the product introduction process in low-volume manufacturing industries were a low number of prototypes, absence of conventional production ramp-up, reduced complexity of the process, failure to consider the manufacturability of the products due to an extensive focus on their functionality and increased complexity of resource allocation. It was determined that prior production of similar products could serve as a facilitator of the manufacturing process.

Research limitations/implications

– The main limitation of this study is that the identified characteristics and facilitating factors are confined to the internal variables of the studied company. A study of the role of external variables during the product introduction process such as suppliers and customers could be the subject of future studies.

Practical implications

– This research will provide practitioners in low-volume manufacturing industries with general insight about the characteristics of the product introduction process and the aspects that should be considered during the process.

Originality/value

– Whereas there is a significant body of work about product introduction process in high-volume manufacturing industries, the research on characteristics of the product introduction process in low-volume manufacturing industries is limited.
A reliability diagnosis to support servitization decision-making process
Authors: Dahmani Sarra , Boucher Xavier , Peillon Sophie , Besombes Béatrix
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– Servitization of manufacturing is characterized by very complex decision processes within strongly unstable and uncertain decision contexts. Decision-makers are face situations of lack of internal and external information. The purpose of this paper is to develop a decision aid approach to support the management of servitization decision-making processes.

Design/methodology/approach

– The scientific orientation of this research consists in working at improving the efficiency of the servitization decision-making process, by identifying factors of non-reliability, in order to propose remediation actions for the whole process. Improving the final decisions taken by the managers is considered as a consequence of the improvement of the decision-making process reliability. The method, based on modeling and evaluation, requires the specification of a decision process model for servitization, used as a basis to assess decision process reliability and diagnose the enterprise’s servitization decision system. Improving the final decisions made by the managers is considered as a consequence of the improvement of the decision-making process reliability.

Findings

– Key added values: first, to formalize a servitization decision-making reference model; second, to specify a reliability assessment applied to the decision system; and third, to define a decision process reliability diagnosis procedure for servitization, illustrated in a case study.

Research limitations/implications

– A direct perspective is to complete the focus on procedural reliability, by taking into consideration the subjective rationality of decision-makers in the reliability assessment procedure. Additionally, this reliability assessment method and diagnosis could become the basis of a larger risk management approach for servitization.

Practical implications

– The diagnosis procedure proposed in the paper is dedicated to generating practical results for enterprise decision-makers, consisting in recommendations for decision process improvements, in the context of servitization. The approach is illustrated through an industrial SME case study. The practical implications are highly contextualized.

Originality/value

– The key originality of this research is to tackle servitization complexity with a decision system modeling and diagnosis orientation, including the formalization of the notion of “decision process reliability,” and the specification and implementation of a quantitative assessment procedure.
Independent accountant’s reports: signaling and early-stage venture funding
Authors: Foster Benjamin Patrick , Garrett, Jr Robert P. , Shastri Trimbak
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to examine whether the ability of early-stage ventures to obtain external funding and the amount of additional information provided to potential investors are affected by the level of assurance (audit, review or compilation) received from independent accountants on the ventures’ historical financial statements. The assurance level provided should differently impact potential investors’ willingness to invest in a new venture and need for additional information during due diligence evaluation of the organization and entrepreneur.

Design/methodology/approach

To examine the relative effects of the signal provided by these levels of assurance on investment decisions, a survey is administered to collect data regarding an investment-related decision scenario. The three levels of assurance in independent accountant’s reports (audit, review or compilation) is manipulated when eliciting participants’ responses.

Findings

Results indicate that respondents perceive the signal provided by compilation reports, review reports and audit reports as increasing in reliability and are more likely to invest in a venture providing reports with that increasing reliability. Audited financial statements are viewed as the most reliable and provide a positive signal to potential investors and lenders. Consequently, potential investors may require less additional information from entrepreneurs with audited financial statements when conducting due diligence investigations.

Research limitations/implications

Subjects used (Master of Business Administration students, with an average work experience of over six years, including some with investing experience) may not be the best proxies for early-stage investors.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine the relative effectiveness of signals provided by the independent accountant’s audit, review and compilation reports in assisting early-stage business ventures and entrepreneurs raising funds, and dealing with due diligence requests for additional information. Results indicate that engaging an auditor for independent assurance on financial statements can benefit entrepreneurs by increasing the likelihood of obtaining necessary funds and decreasing the amount of additional information needed by potential investors.
Personality, risk tolerance and social network use: an exploratory study
Authors: Wasiuzzaman Shaista , Edalat Siavash
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The vast amount of information available via online social networks (OSN) makes it a very good avenue for understanding human behavior. One of the human characteristics of interest to financial practitioners is an individual’s financial risk tolerance. The purpose of this paper is to look at the relationship between an individual’s OSN behavior and his/her financial risk tolerance.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study uses data collected from a sample of 220 university students and the backward variables selection ordinary least squares regression analysis technique to achieve its objective.

Findings

– The results of the study find that the frequency of logging on to social network sites indicates an individual who has higher financial risk tolerance. Additionally, the increasing use of social networks for social connection is found to be associated with lower financial risk tolerance. The results are mostly consistent when the sample is split based on prior financial knowledge.

Originality/value

– To the authors’ knowledge this is the first study which documents the possibility of understanding an individual’s financial risk tolerance via his/her social network activity. This provides investment/financial consultants with more avenues for gathering information in order to understand their current or potential clients hence providing better services.
Template-free fabrication of NiO nanobelts: promising candidate for ethanol gas sensor at room temperature
Authors: Li Zhiwei
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to seek a surfactant or template-free, simple and green method to fabricate NiO nanobelts and to find an effective technique to detect the ethanol vapor at room temperature.

Design/methodology/approach

NiO nanobelts with high aspect ratio and dispersive distribution have been synthesized by a template-free hydrothermal reaction at 160°C for 12 h. The products are studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopY, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, selective area electron diffractio and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In particular, the room-temperature ethanol sensitivity of NiO nanobelts is investigated by the surface photo voltage (SPV) technique.

Findings

The prepared NiO nanobelts is single crystalline bunsenite structure with the length of approximately 10 μm and the diameter of approximately 30 nm. The atomic ratio of “Ni” to “O” is 0.92:1. When the concentration of ethanol vapor reaches 100 ppm, the sensitivity of NiO nanobelts is 7, which can meet the commercial demanding of ethanol gas sensor.

Originality/value

The NiO nanobelts can be obtained by a template-free, simple and green hydrothermal reaction at 160°C for 12 h. The NiO nanobelts-based gas sensor is a promising candidate for the application in ethanol monitoring at room temperature by SPV technique.
Failure analysis of epoxy molded IC packages
Authors: Janeczek Kamil , Arazna Aneta , Futera Konrad , Koziol Grazyna
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to present non-destructive and destructive methods of failure analysis of epoxy moulded IC packages on the example of power MOSFETs in SOT-227 package.

Design/methodology/approach

A power MOSFET in SOT-227 package was examined twice using X-ray inspection, at first as the whole component to check if it is damaged and then after removing the upper part of package by mechanical grinding. The purpose of the second X-ray inspection was to prepare images for estimation of the total number and approximate location of voids in soft solder layers. Finally, power MOSFETs were subjected to decapsulation process using a concentrated sulphuric acid to verify existence of damage areas noticed during X-ray analysis and to observe other possible failures such as cracks in aluminium metallization or wires deformation.

Findings

X-ray analysis was revealed to be adequate technique to detect damage (e.g. meltings) in power MOSFETs in SOT-227 package, but only when tested components were analysed in the side view. This type of analysis combined with a graphic software is also suitable for voids estimation in soft solder layers. Moreover, it was found that a single acid (concentrated sulphuric acid) at elevated temperature can be successfully used for decapsulation of power MOSFETs in SOT-227 package without damage of aluminium metallization and aluminium wires. Such decapsulation process enables analysis of defects in wire, die and package materials.

Research limitations/implications

Further investigations are required to examine if the presented methods of failures analysis can be used for other types of components (e.g. high power resistors) in similar packages.

Practical/implications

The described methods of failure analysis can find application in electronic industry to select components which are free of damage and in effect which allow to produce high reliable devices. Apart from it, the presented method is applicable to evaluate reasons of improper work of tested electronic devices and to identify faked components.

Originality/value

This paper contains valuable information for research and technical staff involved in the assessment of electronic devices who needs practical methods of failure analysis of epoxy moulded IC packages.
Do review valence and review volume impact consumers’ purchase decisions as assumed?
Authors: Yang Jing , Sarathy Rathindra , Walsh Stephen M.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

To explore the psychological mechanism through which consumer reviews affect people’s purchasing decisions and behavior, this study aims to examine the impact of statistical evidence embedded in product reviews on consumers’ perceptions and purchasing intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

The effects review valence and review volume are tested using a 3 (valence: positive vs neutral vs negative) × 2 (volume: high vs low) quasi-experimental design and online questionnaires.

Findings

The study finds that review valence has a stronger impact on consumers’ perceptions than review volume does. Negative reviews induce higher risk perception and a less favorable attitude toward purchases compared to positive reviews. In addition, although both attitude toward purchase and subjective norm are good antecedents of purchase intention, the attitude statistically has a stronger impact than the subjective norm.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to extant literature from three perspectives. The authors have reexamined the findings of econometric models and advanced their implications by explaining the related psychological changes in people’s perceptions. Second, the authors have extended the application of the theory of reasoned action and found it to be a good fit in explaining consumers’ behavior related to consumer reviews. And finally, the authors have provided a clear guideline on the magnitude of the effects of review valence and volume on consumers’ perceptions.

Originality/value

This study provides a good complement to econometric studies from both theoretical and practical perspectives. It bridges the gap between exploratory studies and behavioral studies in the field of consumer reviews.
Investor views, investment screen use, and socially responsible investment behavior
Authors: Dilla William , Janvrin Diane , Perkins Jon , Raschke Robyn
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Despite the increasing demand for socially responsible investments (SRIs) and the importance of information intermediaries in providing corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance information through SRI screens, relatively little is known about the relationship between nonprofessional investors’ views regarding SRI, their use of SRI screens and their actual SRI behavior. This study aims to distinguish between investor views about the importance of corporate environmental responsibility (environmental performance importance views) and whether they view environmentally responsible firms as yielding higher returns (environmental performance return views). It examines the association between these views, SRI screen use and reported SRI holdings.

Design/methodology/approach

Nonprofessional investor participants completed an online survey about their SRI investment views, screen use and investment behavior. The survey yielded 201 usable responses.

Findings

The strength of participants’ environmental performance importance and environmental performance return views is positively associated with their use of SRI screens and the proportion of their portfolios held in SRIs. SRI screen use only partially mediates the association between investors’ environmental performance importance and return views and their SRI holdings.

Research limitations/implications

The study does not precisely address what types of SRI screens nonprofessional investors may be using. It does not control for investors’ specific experience with SRIs, nor does it examine how or why investors come to believe that environmental responsibility may improve a company’s return potential.

Practical implications

The fact that SRI screen use only partially mediates the association between investors’ views and their SRI holdings suggests that either reliable, unfiltered CSR information is important for nonprofessional investors or some investors are choosing SRIs without obtaining adequate relevant information.

Social implications

The study’s findings confirm earlier research findings which show an association between investors’ pro-environmental views and their decision to invest in SRIs (Williams, 2007; Nilsson, 2008) and suggest that nonprofessional investors are becoming aware of the positive relation between environmental performance and firm value (Dhaliwal et al., 2011; Clarkson et al., 2013; Hawn et al., 2014; Matsumura et al., 2014).

Originality/value

This study simultaneously examines the influence of environmental performance importance (an “alternative” investment perspective) and environmental performance return (a “traditional” investment perspective) on investors’ SRI behavior.
Contributing barriers to corporate social and environmental responsibility practices in a developing country
Authors: Hossain Md Moazzem , Alam Manzurul , Hecimovic Angela , Alamgir Hossain Mohammad , Choudhury Lema Aklema
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the contributing barriers to corporate social and environmental responsibility (CSER) practices. In particular, this study focuses on non-managerial stakeholders’ perceptions of the barriers to CSER practices in a developing country context. The study also investigates the current initiatives undertaken by the different stakeholders, such as government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and regulators.

Design/methodology/approach

The study takes a qualitative approach, undertaking semi-structured in-depth interviews with 26 participants from NGOs, the media, regulatory authorities, government departments, shareholders, trade union leaders and customers.

Findings

The views of stakeholder groups were analysed to identify the contributing barriers to CSER practices. The findings of the study reveal that corruption and politics, lack of coordination, lack of government initiatives and unsatisfactory implementation of laws are perceived as the major barriers that hinder CSER practices in Bangladesh. The study also found a lack of awareness amongst various stakeholder groups regarding the influential role CSER plays in promoting sustainable development. The current initiatives undertaken by various stakeholders to improve CSER practices were limited but growing.

Research Limitations/implications

The study utilises the stakeholder theory to examine the role of stakeholders, rather than managers, in relation to CSER practice in Bangladesh. The findings may provide impetus for mitigating CSER barriers in a developing country context.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few engagement-based studies to explore the non-managerial stakeholders’ views on CSER in a developing country context.
Experimental study on the performance of an azimuthal acoustic receiver sonde for a downhole tool
Authors: Che Xiaohua , Qiao Wenxiao , Ju Xiaodong , Wu Jinping , Men Baiyong
Published: May 2016

A new azimuthal acoustic receiver sonde with a body and corresponding circuits was designed for a downhole tool. The 64‐sensor receiver sonde holds eight receiver stations that can be combined into at least 64 three‐sensor receiver subarrays. As a result, the receiver sonde can use different sensor combinations instead of different transducer types to produce multiple modes, including a phased azimuthal reception mode and conventional monopole, dipole, and quadruple modes. Laboratory measurements were conducted to study the performance of the azimuthal acoustic receiver sonde for a downhole tool, and the experimental results indicate that the receiver sonde provides a consistent reception performance. Individual sensors receive similar time‐domain waveforms, and their corresponding frequency bands and sensitivities are consistent within the measurement errors of around 5%. The direction of the reception main lobe is approximately parallel to its exterior normal direction. In addition, a receiver subarray with three sensors receives waveforms that have higher energy and narrower beamwidths. For individual sensors, the angular width of the dominant reception lobe is 191.3° on average, whereas that of the individual receiver subarrays is approximately 52.1° on average. The amplitude of the first arrival received by the receiver subarray centred at the primary sensor directly pointing to the source is approximately 2.2 times the average amplitude of the first arrivals received by the other receiver subarrays in the same receiver station. Thus, the maximum amplitude of the waveforms received by the receiver subarrays can be used to determine the direction of the incident waves. This approach represents a promising method for determining the reflector azimuth for acoustic reflection logging and three‐dimensional acoustic logging.
Does media coverage influence public attitudes towards welfare recipients? The impact of the 2011 English riots
Authors: Reeves Aaron , de Vries Robert
Published: May 2016

Following the shooting of Mark Duggan by police on 4 August 2011, there were riots in many large cities in the UK. As the rioting was widely perceived to be perpetrated by the urban poor, links were quickly made with Britain's welfare policies. In this paper, we examine whether the riots, and the subsequent media coverage, influenced attitudes toward welfare recipients. Using the British Social Attitudes survey, we use multivariate difference‐in‐differences regression models to compare attitudes toward welfare recipients among those interviewed before (pre‐intervention: i.e. prior to 6 August) and after (post‐intervention: 10 August–10 September) the riots occurred (N = 3,311). We use variation in exposure to the media coverage to test theories of media persuasion in the context of attitudes toward welfare recipients. Before the riots, there were no significant differences between newspaper readers and non‐readers in their attitudes towards welfare recipients. However, after the riots, attitudes diverged. Newspaper readers became more likely than non‐readers to believe that those on welfare did not really deserve help, that the unemployed could find a job if they wanted to and that those on the dole were being dishonest in claiming benefits. Although the divergence was clearest between right‐leaning newspaper and non‐newspaper readers, we do not a find statistically significant difference between right‐ and left‐leaning newspapers. These results suggest that media coverage of the riots influenced attitudes towards welfare recipients; specifically, newspaper coverage of the riots increased the likelihood that readers of the print media expressed negative attitudes towards welfare recipients when compared with the rest of the population.
Walk them or no leg to stand on! Diagnostic delay of neurologic conditions in young children
Authors: Stock Amanda , Dunn Karen , Cheek John A
Published: May 2016

Diagnosis of low incidence neurological conditions can be a challenge in paediatric emergency medicine. Neurological examination in young children can be very difficult, and medical staff may not previously have encountered conditions like acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis. We propose that the simple process of walking a child (provided they were previously ambulant) is the crucial step in the neurological examination. We present three cases to demonstrate this important part of the examination.