bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agrochemical synergism imposes higher risk to Neotropical bees than to honeybees
Authors: Tomé Hudson V. V. , Ramos Gabryele S. , Araújo Micaele F. , Santana Weyder C. , Santos Gil R. , Guedes Raul Narciso C. , Maciel Carlos D. , Newland Philip L. , Oliveira Eugênio E.
Published: January 2017

Bees are key pollinators whose population numbers are declining, in part, owing to the effects of different stressors such as insecticides and fungicides. We have analysed the susceptibility of the Africanized honeybee,
Apis mellifera
, and the stingless bee,
Partamona helleri,
to commercial formulations of the insecticides deltamethrin and imidacloprid. The toxicity of fungicides based on thiophanate-methyl and chlorothalonil were investigated individually and in combination, and with the insecticides. Results showed that stingless bees were more susceptible to insecticides than honeybees. The commercial fungicides thiophanate-methyl or chlorothalonil caused low mortality, regardless of concentration; however, their combination was as toxic as imidacloprid to both species, and over 400-fold more toxic than deltamethrin for
A. mellifera
. There were highly synergistic effects on mortality caused by interactions in the mixture of imidacloprid and the fungicides thiophanate-methyl, chlorothalonil and the combined fungicide formulation in
A. mellifera,
and also to a lesser extent in
P. helleri
. By contrast, mixtures of the deltamethrin and the combined fungicide formulation induced high synergy in
P. helleri
, but had little effect on the mortality of
A. mellifera
. Differences in physiology and modes of action of agrochemicals are discussed as key factors underlying the differences in susceptibility to agrochemicals.
The onset of thermalization in finite-dimensional equations of hydrodynamics: insights from the Burgers equation
Authors: Venkataraman Divya , Sankar Ray Samriddhi
Published: January 2017

Solutions to finite-dimensional (all spatial Fourier modes set to zero beyond a finite wavenumber

K

G

), inviscid equations of hydrodynamics at long times are known to be at variance with those obtained for the original infinite dimensional partial differential equations or their viscous counterparts. Surprisingly, the solutions to such Galerkin-truncated equations develop sharp localized structures, called
tygers
(Ray
et al.
2011
Phys. Rev. E
84
, 016301 (
doi:10.1103/PhysRevE.84.016301
)), which eventually lead to completely thermalized states associated with an equipartition energy spectrum. We now obtain, by using the analytically tractable Burgers equation, precise estimates, theoretically and via direct numerical simulations, of the time

τ

c

at which thermalization is triggered and show that

τ

c

∼

K

G

ξ

, with

ξ
=
−

4
9

. Our results have several implications, including for the analyticity strip method, to numerically obtain evidence for or against blow-ups of the three-dimensional incompressible Euler equations.
A study on the temperature field of a bronze-bonded diamond wheel dressed using a laser/ultrasonic vibration combined method
Authors: Yang Zhibo , Zhang Zhen , Liu Aiju , Liu Shian
Published: January 2017

To solve problems in dressings for metal-bonded super-hard abrasive wheels, such as low efficiency and rapid wear, this article introduces a laser-assisted ultrasonic vibration dressing technique. Firstly, finite-element simulations were conducted on the dressing process of a bronze-bonded diamond wheel, and the wheel's temperature field distributions under different laser parameters were simulated. By analysing the simulation results of temperature fields and the melting point of the bronze bond, the laser parameters for laser-assisted ultrasonic vibration dressing tests were optimized, and then actual tests were carried out on the bronze-bonded diamond wheel. Results showed that, with appropriate technology parameters, the laser-assisted ultrasonic vibration dressing technique achieved desirable dressing results; specifically, the dressing force was low, the abrasive particles had high protrusions and the wheel had a large chip space and favourable surface topography.
Coral calcifying fluid pH is modulated by seawater carbonate chemistry not solely seawater pH
Authors: Comeau S. , Tambutté E. , Carpenter R. C. , Edmunds P. J. , Evensen N. R. , Allemand D. , Ferrier-Pagès C. , Tambutté S. , Venn A. A.
Published: January 2017

Reef coral calcification depends on regulation of pH in the internal calcifying fluid (CF) in which the coral skeleton forms. However, little is known about calcifying fluid pH (pHCF) regulation, despite its importance in determining the response of corals to ocean acidification. Here, we investigate pHCFin the coralStylophora pistillatain seawater maintained at constant pH with manipulated carbonate chemistry to alter dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) concentration, and therefore total alkalinity (AT). We also investigate the intracellular pH of calcifying cells, photosynthesis, respiration and calcification rates under the same conditions. Our results show that despite constant pH in the surrounding seawater, pHCFis sensitive to shifts in carbonate chemistry associated with changes in [DIC] and [AT], revealing that seawater pH is not the sole driver of pHCF. Notably, when we synthesize our results with published data, we identify linear relationships of pHCFwith the seawater [DIC]/[H+] ratio, [AT]/ [H+] ratio and []. Our findings contribute new insights into the mechanisms determining the sensitivity of coral calcification to changes in seawater carbonate chemistry, which are needed for predicting effects of environmental change on coral reefs and for robust interpretations of isotopic palaeoenvironmental records in coral skeletons.
Predicting behavioural responses to novel organisms: state-dependent detection theory
Authors: Trimmer Pete C. , Ehlman Sean M. , Sih Andrew
Published: January 2017

Human activity alters natural habitats for many species. Understanding variation in animals' behavioural responses to these changing environments is critical. We show how signal detection theory can be used within a wider framework of state-dependent modelling to predict behavioural responses to a major environmental change: novel, exotic species. We allow thresholds for action to be a function of reserves, and demonstrate how optimal thresholds can be calculated. We term this framework ‘state-dependent detection theory’ (SDDT). We focus on behavioural and fitness outcomes when animals continue to use formerly adaptive thresholds following environmental change. In a simple example, we show that exposure to novel animals whichappeardangerous—but are actually safe—(e.g. ecotourists) can have catastrophic consequences for ‘prey’ (organisms that respond as if the new organisms are predators), significantly increasing mortality even when the novel species is not predatory. SDDT also reveals that the effect on reproduction can be greater than the effect on lifespan. We investigate factors that influence the effect of novel organisms, and address the potential for behavioural adjustments (via evolution or learning) to recover otherwise reduced fitness. Although effects of environmental change are often difficult to predict, we suggest that SDDT provides a useful route ahead.
Mechanical sensitivity and the dynamics of evolutionary rate shifts in biomechanical systems
Authors: Muñoz Martha M. , Anderson Philip S. L. , Patek S. N.
Published: January 2017

The influence of biophysical relationships on rates of morphological evolution is a cornerstone of evolutionary theory. Mechanical sensitivity—the correlation strength between mechanical output and the system's underlying morphological components—is thought to impact the evolutionary dynamics of form–function relationships, yet has rarely been examined. Here, we compare the evolutionary rates of the mechanical components of the four-bar linkage system in the raptorial appendage of mantis shrimp (Order Stomatopoda). This system's mechanical output (kinematic transmission (KT)) is highly sensitive to variation in its output link, and less sensitive to its input and coupler links. We found that differential mechanical sensitivity is associated with variation in evolutionary rate: KT and the output link exhibit faster rates of evolution than the input and coupler links to which KT is less sensitive. Furthermore, for KT and, to a lesser extent, the output link, rates of evolution were faster in ‘spearing’ stomatopods than ‘smashers’, indicating that mechanical sensitivity may influence trait-dependent diversification. Our results suggest that mechanical sensitivity can impact morphological evolution and guide the process of phenotypic diversification. The connection between mechanical sensitivity and evolutionary rates provides a window into the interaction between physical rules and the evolutionary dynamics of morphological diversification.
Vertically transmitted rhabdoviruses are found across three insect families and have dynamic interactions with their hosts
Authors: Longdon Ben , Day Jonathan P. , Schulz Nora , Leftwich Philip T. , de Jong Maaike A. , Breuker Casper J. , Gibbs Melanie , Obbard Darren J. , Wilfert Lena , Smith Sophia C. L. , McGonigle John E. , Houslay Thomas M. , Wright Lucy I. , Livraghi Luca , Evans Luke C. , Friend Lucy A. , Chapman Tracey , Vontas John , Kambouraki Natasa , Jiggins Francis M.
Published: January 2017

A small number of free-living viruses have been found to be obligately vertically transmitted, but it remains uncertain how widespread vertically transmitted viruses are and how quickly they can spread through host populations. Recent metagenomic studies have found several insects to be infected with sigma viruses (Rhabdoviridae). Here, we report that sigma viruses that infect Mediterranean fruit flies (Ceratitis capitata),Drosophila immigrans, and speckled wood butterflies (Pararge aegeria) are all vertically transmitted. We find patterns of vertical transmission that are consistent with those seen inDrosophilasigma viruses, with high rates of maternal transmission, and lower rates of paternal transmission. This mode of transmission allows them to spread rapidly in populations, and using viral sequence data we found the viruses inD. immigransandC. capitatahad both recently swept through host populations. The viruses were common in nature, with mean prevalences of 12% inC. capitata, 38% inD. immigransand 74% inP. aegeria. We conclude that vertically transmitted rhabdoviruses may be widespread in a broad range of insect taxa, and that these viruses can have dynamic interactions with their hosts.
ARCS: Assembly Roundup by Chromium Scaffolding
Authors: Yeo Sarah , Coombe Lauren , Chu Justin , Warren René L , Birol Inanç
Published: January 2017

Sequencing of human genomes is now routine, and assembly of shotgun reads is increasingly feasible. However, assemblies often fail to inform about chromosome-scale structure due to lack of linkage information over long stretches of DNA – a shortcoming that is being addressed by new sequencing protocols, such as linked reads from 10X Genomics. Here we present ARCS, an application that utilizes the barcoding information contained in linked reads to further organize draft genomes into highly contiguous assemblies. We show how the contiguity of an ABySS H. sapiens genome assembly can be increased over six-fold using moderate coverage (25-fold) Chromium data. We expect ARCS to have broad utility in harnessing the barcoding information contained in Chromium data for connecting high-quality sequences in genome assembly drafts. Availability: http://www.bcgsc.ca/platform/bioinfo/software/arcs

Supplementary information available online.
Pebbles as Dry Ice Replacement for Snap Freezing of Rodents Brains
Authors: Bernard René , Mosch Larissa , Dirnagl Ulrich
Published: January 2017

Dry ice is commonly used as a cooling agent in the preclinical research environment. It permits rapid freezing of tissues and organs through liquid media. Laboratories depend on a constant supply of dry ice because it disintegrates in a matter of days. Here we tested whether commercially available pebble gravel could be used as dry ice replacement for snap freezing mouse brains in 2-methylbutane. We monitored 2-methylbutane temperature for one hour and tested different setups with the focus on creating a practical solution that can be used in every research laboratory. While gravel pebbles cannot replace dry ice in the laboratory entirely, they present a useful addition as readily available and reusable cooling agent.
Evaluating hybridization capture with RAD probes as a tool for museum genomics with historical bird specimens
Authors: Linck Ethan B. , Hanna Zach , Sellas Anna , Dumbacher John P.
Published: January 2017

Laboratory techniques for high-throughput sequencing have enhanced our ability to generate DNA sequence data from millions of natural history specimens collected prior to the molecular era, but remain poorly tested at shallower evolutionary time scales. Hybridization capture using restriction site associated DNA probes (hyRAD) is a recently developed method for population genomics with museum specimens (Suchan et al. 2016). The hyRAD method employs fragments produced in a restriction site associated double digestion as the basis for probes that capture orthologous loci in samples of interest. While promising in that it does not require a reference genome, hyRAD has yet to be applied across study systems in independent laboratories. Here we provide an independent assessment of the effectiveness of hyRAD on both fresh avian tissue and dried tissue from museum specimens up to 140 years old and investigate how variable quantities of input DNA affects sequencing, assembly, and population genetic inference. We present a modified bench protocol and bioinformatics pipeline, including three steps for detection and removal of microbial and mitochondrial DNA contaminants. We confirm that hyRAD is an effective tool for sampling thousands of orthologous SNPs from historic museum specimens to describe phylogeographic patterns. We find that modern DNA performs significantly better than historical DNA better during sequencing, but that assembly performance is largely equivalent. We also find that the quantity of input DNA predicts %GC content of assembled contiguous sequences, suggesting PCR bias. We caution against sampling schemes that include taxonomic or geographic autocorrelation across modern and historic samples.
Biochemical, serological and molecular confirmation ofSalmonellaisolates
Authors: Prasanna Kumar V. , Singh S. P. , Upadhyay A. K. , Kumar Deepak
Published: January 2017

Salmonellosis is one of the most frequently reported food-borne diseases world-wide commonly caused bySalmonellaTyphimurium andSalmonellaEnteritidis serovars. The present study was undertaken to confirmSalmonellaisolates by various techniques. All the 94 isolates were confirmed to be S. Typhimurium through various morphological, biochemical, serological and molecular methods.
Emergence of localized patterns in globally coupled networks of relaxation oscillators with heterogeneous connectivity
Authors: Leiser Randolph J. , Rotstein Horacio G.
Published: January 2017

Relaxation oscillators may exhibit small amplitude oscillations (SAOs) in addition to the typical large amplitude oscillations (LAOs) as well as abrupt transitions between them (canard phenomenon). Localized cluster patterns in networks of relaxation oscillators consist of one cluster oscillating in the LAO regime or exhibiting mixed-mode oscillations (LAOs interspersed with SAOs), while the other oscillates in the SAO regime. We investigate the mechanisms underlying the generation of localized patterns in globally coupled networks of piecewise-linear (PWL) relaxation oscillators where global feedback acting on the rate of change of the activator (fast variable) involves the inhibitor (slow variable). We also investigate of these patterns are affected by the presence of a diffusive type of coupling whose synchronizing effects compete with the symmetry breaking global feedback effects.
Stem cell differentiation is a stochastic process with memory
Authors: Stumpf Patrick S. , Smith Rosanna C. G. , Lenz Michael , Schuppert Andreas , Müller Franz-Josef , Babtie Ann , Chan Thalia E. , Stumpf Michael P. H. , Please Colin P. , Howison Sam D. , Arai Fumio , MacArthur Ben D.
Published: January 2017

Pluripotent stem cells are able to self-renew indefinitely in culture and differentiate into all somatic cell typesin vivo. While much is known about the molecular basis of pluripotency, the molecular mechanisms of lineage commitment are complex and only partially understood. Here, using a combination of single cell profiling and mathematical modeling, we examine the differentiation dynamics of individual mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) as they progress from the ground state of pluripotency along the neuronal lineage. In accordance with previous reports we find that cells do not transit directly from the pluripotent state to the neuronal state, but rather first stochastically permeate an intermediate primed pluripotent state, similar to that found in the maturing epiblast in development. However, analysis of rate at which individual cells enter and exit this intermediate metastable state using a hidden Markov model reveals that the observed ESC and epiblast-like ‘macrostates’ conceal a chain of unobserved cellular ‘microstates’, which individual cells transit through stochastically in sequence. These hidden microstates ensure that individual cells spend well-defined periods of time in each functional macrostate and encode a simple form of epigenetic ‘memory’ that allows individual cells to record their position on the differentiation trajectory. To examine the generality of this model we also consider the differentiation of mouse hematopoietic stem cells along the myeloid lineage and observe remarkably similar dynamics, suggesting a general underlying process. Based upon these results we suggest a statistical mechanics view of cellular identities that distinguishes between functionally-distinct macrostates and the many functionally-similar molecular microstates associated with each macrostate. Taken together these results indicate that differentiation is a discrete stochastic process amenable to analysis using the tools of statistical mechanics.
Demonstration of short-term plasticity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex with theta burst stimulation: A TMS-EEG study
Authors: Chung Sung Wook , Lewis Benjamin P. , Rogasch Nigel C. , Saeki Takashi , Thomson Richard H. , Hoy Kate E. , Bailey Neil W. , Fitzgerald Paul B.
Published: January 2017

Objectives

To examine the effects of intermittent TBS (iTBS) and continuous TBS (cTBS) on cortical reactivity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

Methods

10 healthy participants were stimulated with either iTBS, cTBS or sham at F3 electrode. Single- and paired-pulse TMS and concurrent electroencephalography (EEG) were used to assess change in cortical reactivity and long-interval intracortical inhibition (LICI) via TMS-evoked potentials (TEPs) and TMS-evoked oscillations.

Results

Significant increases in N120 amplitudes (p < 0.01) were observed following iTBS over prefrontal cortex. Changes in TMS-evoked theta oscillations and LICI of theta oscillations were also observed following iTBS (increase) and cTBS (decrease). Change in LICI of theta oscillations correlated with change in N120 amplitude following TBS (r = −0.670, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence that TBS produces direct changes in cortical reactivity in the prefrontal cortex. Combining TBS with TMS-EEG may be a useful approach to optimise stimulation paradigms prior to the conduct of clinical trials.

Significance

TBS is able to modulate cortical reactivity and cortical inhibition in the prefrontal cortex.

Highlights

Effects of iTBS and cTBS were studied in the DLPFC using TMS-EEG

iTBS increased N120 amplitude, theta power and LICI of theta

cTBS decreased theta power alone
Cross-cultural management education rebooted
Authors: Dietz Joerg , Fitzsimmons Stacey R. , Aycan Zeynep , Francesco Anne Marie , Jonsen Karsten , Osland Joyce , Sackmann Sonja A. , Lee Hyun-Jung , Boyacigiller Nakiye A.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Graduates of cross-cultural management (CCM) courses should be capable of both tackling international and cross-cultural situations and creating positive value from the diversity inherent in these situations. Such value creation is challenging because these situations are typically complex due to differences in cultural values, traditions, social practices, and institutions, such as legal rules, coupled with variation in, for example, wealth and civil rights among stakeholders. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors argue that a scientific mindfulness approach to teaching CCM can help students identify and leverage positive aspects of differences and thereby contribute to positive change in cross-cultural situations.

Findings

Scientific mindfulness combines mindfulness and scientific thinking with the explicit goal to drive positive change in the world.

Originality/value

The authors explain how the action principles of scientific mindfulness enable learners to build positive value from cultural diversity. The authors then describe how to enact these principles in the context of CCM education.
The double-edged sword of cultural distance in international alliances
Authors: Pesch Robin , Bouncken Ricarda B.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

While previous studies have primarily assumed dysfunctional effects of cultural distance in joint ventures and M&A, this paper elucidates from a positive organizational scholarship perspective how perceived cultural distance can advance firms’ new product development within non-equity alliances. The purpose of this paper is to explain how perceived cultural distance stimulates task discourse that supports alliance partners’ employees in recognizing and applying culture-related differences as complementary problem-solving potentials. Due to a lower integration level in non-equity alliances compared to joint ventures or M&A, this paper assumes that the positive effects outweigh the negative effects of cultural distance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies structural equation modeling to test the hypothesized effects on a sample of 246 international alliances in the manufacturing industry.

Findings

The analysis mainly supports the hypothesized model and unravels how positive effects can emerge from perceived cultural distance.

Practical implications

The findings provide managerial implications. Alliance managers should note that cultural distance can have positive and negative effects, and thus it is not a barrierper sein alliances. Firms can benefit from cultural distance if they are able to leverage culture-specific complementarities through task discourse among partners in alliances.

Originality/value

The manuscript uses a unique data set of 246 international alliances from the global manufacturing industry. The manuscript has not been published elsewhere.
Components and process in social science explanation: is there a role for Yin-Yang balancing
Authors: Redding Gordon
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to consider the proposal by Peter Li about developing an inclusive research paradigm bringing together eastern and western research approaches; and second, to make a proposal for a division of labor in this endeavor.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature review and consideration of opposing intellectual traditions and their origins.

Findings

If the western approach was to deal with structures and institutions, and the eastern approach was to deal with process, then some progress might be possible toward a valuable fusion. But there may be sociological as well as intellectual reasons why this would be difficult.

Research limitations/implications

As it is a commentary there are no specific limitations except for what can be covered in the space available.

Practical implications

If the proposal can be made to bear fruit the chances of much greater East-West collaboration in research are higher.

Social implications

The reduction of friction and non-cooperation between intellectual traditions.

Originality/value

The “process” suggestion is new in this form.
Creating the asset of foreignness: Schrödinger’s cat and lessons from the Nissan revival
Authors: Ikegami Jusuke J.J. , Maznevski Martha , Ota Masataka
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper challenges the assumption in cross-cultural research of liability of foreignness (LOF). The literature review demonstrates that LOF comes from pressures for isomorphism, while asset of foreignness (AOF) can derive from the active process of breaking norms. The purpose of this paper is to explore how leaders can initiate and sustain AOF.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyzes the case of the Nissan revival led by Carlos Ghosn and the impact in the years after. The analysis is based on the authors’ interviews and discussions with Ghosn and senior leaders at Nissan and Renault, complemented with published interviews and assessments.

Findings

Analysis confirmed the potential for AOF, and further uncovered four patterns of behavior that created AOF virtuous cycles among Nissan leaders: initiating trust, shaping identity, anchoring and transcending common language, and acting positively on ignorance. The virtuous cycles were sustainable and transformed into new global strategic perspectives.

Research limitations/implications

The paper proposes a research model identifying moderators between foreignness and performance. Generalizability is limited by the focus on a single case study.

Practical implications

The four sets of behaviors can serve as guides to action for leaders when working in foreign contexts.

Originality/value

This research goes beneath the surface of a famous example to analyze leadership dynamics over time, and provides insight on positive aspects of foreignness.
Facilitating culturally diverse groups with visual templates in collaborative systems
Authors: Bresciani Sabrina , Comi Alice
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The use of visual templates has proven instrumental in supporting group meetings. The purpose of this paper is to explore whether visual templates enable culturally diverse groups to achieve greater task precision in face-to-face meetings.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on Adaptive Structuration Theory, it is argued that visual templates provide structuration for face-to-face meetings, even more so when they are embedded in computer-supported collaborative systems. In particular, it is hypothesized that the higher the degree of structuration imposed by visual templates, the higher the degree of task precision will be. It is also hypothesized that this relationship is positively moderated by group cultural diversity: higher cultural diversity will further sustain the positive effects of visual templates that provide higher structuration.

Findings

Results of an experiment with 229 managers from 49 countries confirm that facilitating groups with visual templates embedded in a computer-supported collaborative system significantly increases task precision at high levels of cultural diversity.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to Positive Organizational Scholarship (POS) by investigating the use of visual templates as a contingency factor that increases performance – specifically task precision – of co-located, culturally diverse groups.

Practical implications

Results indicate that visual templates embedded in a computer-supported collaborative system are an effective method for increasing task precision in face-to-face meetings of culturally diverse groups.

Originality/value

Theories from information systems and visualization are integrated into cross-cultural management with a view to sustaining the effectiveness of culturally diverse groups. The study sample is characterized by highly culturally diverse groups interacting in face-to-face meetings.
Study of the lubrication performance of water-lubricated journal bearings with CFD and FSI method
Authors: Wang Yanzhen , Yin Zhongwei , Jiang Dan , Gao Gengyuan , Zhang Xiuli
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Water lubrication is significant for its environmental friendliness. Composite journal bearing is liable to deform for the huge pressure of water film. This paper aims to study the influence of elastic deformation on how lubrication functions in water-lubricated journal bearings and to provide references for designing composite journal bearings.

Design/methodology/approach

The combination of computational fluid dynamics and fluid-structure interaction is adopted in this paper to study the lubrication performance of water-lubricated compliant journal bearings. The influences of elasticity modulus and Poisson’s ratio on load-carrying capacity and elastic deformation are studied for different rotational speeds. Predictions in this work are compared with the published experimental results, and the present work agrees well with the experimental results.

Findings

A reference whether elastic deformation should be considered for composite journal bearings is proposed under different working conditions. Besides, a reference to determine water-lubricated plain journal bearings dimensions under different loads and rotational speeds is developed with the effect of both elastic deformation and cavitation being accounted.

Originality/value

The present research provides references as to whether elastic deformation should be considered in operation and to determine compliant journal bearings’ dimensions in the design process.
Prediction of fatigue limit of journal bearings considering a multi-axial stress state
Authors: Sous Christopher , Wünsch Henrik , Jacobs Georg , Broeckmann Christoph
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the applicability of the quadratic failure hypothesis (QFH) on journal bearings coated with a white metal sliding layer on the prediction of safe and unsafe operating conditions. The hypothesis covers operation conditions under static and dynamical loading.

Design/methodology/approach

Material tests and elastohydrodynamic, as well as structural, simulations were conducted to provide the required input data for the failure hypothesis. Component samples were tested to verify the results of the QFH.

Findings

The load bearing capacity of journal bearings was analysed for different operating conditions by the use of the QFH. Results allow for the identification of critical and non-critical loading conditions and are in accordance with component test results.

Originality/value

Today’s design guidelines for journal bearings do not consider a multi-axial stress state and actual stress distribution. The applied hypothesis enables consideration of multiaxiality inside the sliding surface layer, as well as determining the location of bearing fatigue due to material overload.
Theoretical research on mechanical property of rectangular oil pad in hydrostatic thrust bearing based on constant flow
Authors: Li Xibing , Cheng Tian , Li Ming , Li Mingjian , Wu Ruren , Wan Yingsi
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to research the lubrication performance of large-size rectangular oil pad in hydrostatic thrust bearing for heavy computer numerical control (CNC) vertical lathe.

Design/methodology/approach

The research establishes the mathematical models of velocity, flux and pressure fields, etc., for lubrication performance distribution, and analyzes its load-bearing behavior.

Findings

When hydrostatic thrust bearing’s rotating speed is within ω1-ω2, the oil flow generated by plate’s relative motion is greater than that generated by pressure difference and centrifugal force, and in the opposite direction, making it not easy to emit friction heat, so the rotating speed range ω1-ω2 should be avoided for bearing.

Originality/value

The research provides powerful theoretical basis for the structure design, operating reliability and practical application of large size rectangular oil pad hydrostatic thrust bearing, and realizing the prediction of its lubrication performance.
Muslim male segmentation: the male gaze and girl power in Malaysian vampire movies
Authors: Rajasakran Thanaseelen , Sinnappan Santhidran , Periyayya Thinavan , Balakrishnan Sridevi
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and develop a distinct perspective from the consumer culture theory in the context of Muslim consumers, marketing and the feminist theory.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on a critical review of the literature for insights into the consumer culture theory in the context of Muslim consumers, Islamic marketing paradigm and the feminist theory.

Findings

The study suggests that scholars in the area of marketing may consider drawing on the theory of Islamic consumer culture, film and feminist theory. This theory can be used as a platform to understand the Muslim mind and the related cultural traits to create greater engagement and interest in Malaysian horror genres among local and international audience. The Malaysian local horror genres currently have an interesting blend of Islam, local culture and gender biases addressing the universal concept of good against the evil forces, and this has the potential of offering new experiences to especially international audiences.

Research limitations/implications

This study is purely theory-based and is aimed at knowledge development in this field of Islamic consumer culture. It also invites academics to engage in scholarly activities toward theory building in this area.

Practical implications

The study provides directions for areas of possible future research in Islamic marketing, consumer culture and film studies.

Social implications

This study intends to broaden the research efforts in Islamic consumer culture marketing in terms of innovative ways to serve this growing Muslim market.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the discipline by providing new perspectives in Islamic consumer culture inquiry in the context of film studies.
What travel motivational factors influence Muslim tourists towards MMITD?
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Khalilur , Zailani Suhaiza , Musa Ghazali
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The World Islamic Tourism Mart in Malaysia has been attracting Muslim tourists from all over the world to choose Malaysia as their Islamic tourism destination. This paper aims to implement the concept of the travel career ladder (TCL) with the main purpose of the antecedents of travel motivation toward Malaysia for Islamic tourism destination (MMITD).

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical model was tested using the structural equation modeling technique with partial least squares. A self-administered questionnaire was designed, distributed and collected from 180 effective participants who had visited Malaysia.

Findings

The findings revealed that the Islamic compliance with self-esteem needs, the Islamic compliance with relationship needs and the Islamic compliance with physiological needs have significant effects on Malaysia My Islamic tourism destination.

Research limitations/implications

The scope of this research paper is limited to TCL including the Islamic compliance issues with self-fulfillment, self-esteem, relationship, safety and physiological needs. A small sample size was obtained with participants from the Muslim countries. A future study should be comprehensively conducted on larger and diverse sampling methods with participants from the Muslim and the non-Muslim major countries, as this paper particularly discusses the theoretical and managerial implications for the anticipated future studies.

Originality/value

The study yet attempts on the part of academicians in Malaysia, what travel motivational factors influence Islamic tourists to travel MMITD. Based on the previous literature and researcher’s experience, it is a new phenomenon and investigation on MMITD.
Halal certification organizations in the United Kingdom
Authors: Annabi Carrie Amani , Ibidapo-Obe Olufunbi Olajumoke
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate the role that halal certification organisations (HCOs) play in the UK in assuring quality in halal cosmetics.

Design/methodology/approach

The study evaluates whether halal certification assures the quality of halal cosmetic products. This research evaluated the quality assurance systems of major UK HCOs, using a hypothetical product as a test vehicle. The investigation considered whether these organisations differ in their definition of “halal” and “halal cosmetics” and also considered how effectively their certification signals quality assurance.

Findings

The study indicated that there is a failure to adopt holistic halal terminology which implies that within the UK halal cosmetics industry, manufacturers may not be working within agreed standards for halal product integrity.

Research limitations/implications

This study focussed on UK certification for halal cosmetics by three HCOs and disregarded other forms of halal businesses. The literature review is based solely on literature available in the English language. The study lacks generalisability, as only one hypothetical product was tested; therefore, it was not possible to reach an understanding of all the costs involved in UK HCO certification.

Practical implications

This study undertook a comprehensive literature review on halal certification to produce a comparison of halal sanctioning laws, certification processes and the level of supply chain verification by UK HCOs.

Originality/value

This study adds value to the knowledge on UK halal certification.
Consumer attitude and preference in the Islamic mortgage sector: a study of Malaysian consumers
Authors: Amin Hanudin , Abdul Rahman Abdul Rahim , Abdul Razak Dzuljastri , Rizal Hamid
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of service quality, product choice and Islamic debt policy on consumer attitude within the context of Islamic mortgage sector in Malaysia. The present study also examines the effect of attitudinal-behaviour on consumer preference towards preference of Islamic mortgage selection.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on questionnaire survey. Data are collected using sample from customers of Islamic banks in Malaysia. The study collects 351 respondents. Data are analysed using partial least squares (PLS).

Findings

The results indicate that service quality, product choice and Islamic debt policy significantly influence consumer attitude, in turn, affecting the Islamic home financing preference. Consumer attitude also mediates the effects of service quality, product choice and Islamic debt policy on the Islamic home financing preference.

Research limitations/implications

Several limitations warrant future research. First, this study considers only a specific user group in one public university. Second, this study does not consider attitude as a moderator. Third, this study suffers from the limited number of factors used. These limitations, however, provide directions for future research.

Practical implications

Our results will add value to the consumer preference topic for Islamic home financing literature. The present study provides bank managers with valuable insights into better planning of Islamic home financing services in Malaysia.

Originality/value

This study is a pioneering effort at exploring consumer attitude and preference from the context of Islamic mortgage sector in Malaysia. The use of PLS analysis provides another important contribution to the literature in this area.
Operational or strategic benefits
Authors: Tarofder Arun Kumar , Azam S.M. Ferdous , Jalal Abdullah Nabeel
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is twofold: identifying important determinants for effective adoption of internet technologies in an organizational supply chain context and examining and classifying benefits yielded from internet adoption in supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured Web-based questionnaire was designed and administered to respondents to collect the primary data. With two reminders, this study managed to obtain 236 respondents from different industries in Malaysia. Structural equation modelling was applied to test the seven hypotheses.

Findings

Four of five factors were significant for successful implementation of internet technologies in organizations. In addition, results suggested that internet technologies contribute more to operational activities rather than strategic initiatives, which would be one of the main contributions of this study.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by its being based on organizational perception rather than absolute value for measuring the benefits of internet adoption. Moreover, this study applied the cross-sectional technique which may limit generalizability of the findings.

Practical implications

This study provides in-depth knowledge about internet adoption and benefits for the organization by combining both theoretical and empirical knowledge. It helps managers to understand the importance and process of internet adoption.

Originality/value

Organizations who are interested in adopting the internet in their supply chain may feel that these results will guide them in making their final decision.
Send in the robots
Authors: Abeles Tom P.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how the introduction of robots and artificial intelligence raises questions regarding the role of “work” not just in meeting societal material needs but challenges the idea of work as an underlying paradigm of human society, particularly as personal identity.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes the form of an editorial opinion piece.

Findings

“Work” is a defining characteristic of an individual. The entrance of robots and artificial intelligence could be a greater challenge to an individual’s sense of well-being and identity than only for filling traditional functions and basic needs of society.

Social Implications

The question is raised as to the psychological and social implications of the “immigration” of a new “culture” in the form of artificial intelligence and robotics beyond a local or regional basis.

Originality/value

The increasing presence of robots and artificial intelligence not only offers alternative ways for society to function but also sharpens the challenges that one culture faces when confronted by other communities who are able to fill traditional positions beyond the traditional one of “work”.
Institutional isomorphism and social responsibility in professional sports
Authors: Joo Soyoung , Larkin Ben , Walker Nefertiti
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices of three major professional sport leagues in South Korea to investigate the general beliefs, values, and norms influencing the institutional isomorphism of CSR engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

Nine semi-structured interviews were conducted with three league chiefs of CSR initiatives and senior managers of related divisions to explore the general beliefs, values, and norms that are institutionalized in their CSR practices. The Gioia method of inquiry and data analysis was employed.

Findings

Using institutional theory, the current research found evidence of all three institutional pressures of institutional isomorphism that contribute to the institutionalization of CSR practices in professional South Korean sport. The data revealed that CSR has been institutionalized in these leagues through isomorphic pressures – coercive, mimetic, and normative – as antecedents to their CSR practices.

Practical implications

The current research identified that conforming to the institutional norms may not only act as a force causing the organization to behave in a socially responsible manner, but also to provide the organization with competitive advantages.

Originality/value

The authors extend the current literature in sport CSR by using institutional theory as a framework to uncover organizational CSR motives. In particular, this is the first study to provide evidence of how three isomorphic pressures work to institutionalize CSR practices in South Korean professional sports leagues.
Effect of cholesterol‐reduced and zinc fortification treatments on physicochemical, functional, textural, microstructural and sensory properties of soft cheese
Authors: Galante Micaela , Pavón Yanina , Lazzaroni Sandra , Soazo Marina , Costa Silvia , Boeris Valeria , Risso Patricia , Rozycki Sergio
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to produce and evaluate a soft cheese fortified with zinc and with cholesterol‐reduced content. To meet this objective, a cream base was prepared, from which cholesterol was removed using β‐cyclodextrin as extracting agent. Then, cholesterol‐reduced content cheese with and without the addition of zinc salts (ZnSO4 or ZnCl2) was produced. Additionally, a cheese without any treatment was prepared. Furthermore, physicochemical, textural, functional, microstructural and sensory determinations were performed. As a result, 87–94% zinc‐fortified and 93% cholesterol‐reduced cheese samples were obtained, which had similar sensorial characteristics to the cheese without treatment.
Barriers to conducting research: A survey of trainees in emergency medicine
Authors: Olaussen Alexander , Jennings Paul A , O'Reilly Gerard , Mitra Biswadev , Cameron Peter A
Published: January 2017

Objective

Research underpins evidence‐based practice, but there are significant barriers to conducting research relevant to each clinical discipline. Understanding these barriers could allow strategies to reduce their impact. The present study was undertaken to understand specific barriers to research for emergency medicine (EM) trainees.

Methods

EM trainees attending research short courses were surveyed. Free‐text responses were classified into themes and a list of pre‐specified potential barriers was used for ranking purposes.

Results

The responders (n = 61/90; 67.8%) were young, mostly male with low confidence in leading a research project and limited previous research experience. There were 155 unique barriers identified from 55 respondents, which fitted into nine categories. The most frequently perceived barrier was time (29%), followed by skills (22.6%) and cultural factors (19.4%). Most trainees (n = 54/56, 96.4%) believed that the barriers could be overcome. Strategies suggested included protection of time, mentoring and education, as well as top‐down improved research culture.

Conclusions

Barriers to research in EM are similar to other specialities and were perceived to be manageable. Reorganisation and refocus of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine training curriculum may be an option to foster an environment to promote research.