bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring inside the box: a cross-cultural examination of stimuli affecting fast food addiction
Authors: Khalid Hania , Lodhi Rab Nawaz , Mahmood Zahid
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper, a cross-cultural study, is twofold: first, to identify personal, social, demographical and marketing facets that imply fast food addiction in Pakistan and America, and second to explore the reasons of reduction in fast food consumption in Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study followed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods research design. Both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods were used to obtain supportive results of fast food consumption with the help of defining logical relations between independent and dependent variables. Partial least square based structural equation modeling technique was used to analyze quantitative data. For qualitative data, NVivo 11 was used to explore themes.

Findings

Quantitative findings of Pakistani setting suggested that craving and impulsiveness have a significant relation with addiction and have no mediation effect in both the countries. However, these results contradict with US study. Qualitative findings explored many personal, social, marketing and health factors that have affected fast food market of Pakistan which include low income, price-sensitive market, low quality, poor services, PFA, word of mouth, mood, obesity, environment and cultural influence on the consumption behavior of Pakistani consumers.

Research limitations/implications

This study is restricted to the consumption behavior of fast food only in two countries the USA and Pakistan. Hence, the results of this study cannot be generalized to other countries’ cultural and traditional values. In addition, this study only focuses on personal, social and marketing factors that implicate fast food addiction.

Originality/value

The consumption of fast food was the focus of analysis. Therefore, research adds value to service industry and helps in developing growth and marketing strategies for the fast food industry.
Are high-fit CSR programs always better? The effects of corporate reputation and CSR fit on stakeholder responses
Authors: Kim Yeonsoo , Ferguson Mary Ann
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how corporate reputation interacts with corporate social responsibility (CSR) fit and affects stakeholders’ skeptical attribution (SA) of CSR motives, as well as their attitudes, supportive communication intent and purchase intent. This study proposes that a high-fit CSR program does not necessarily engender more favorable outcomes, nor does it stimulate SA. The study proposes the effects of CSR fit differ by corporate reputation. For bad-reputation companies, low-fit is anticipated to generate more desirable CSR outcomes than high-fit initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

Two experiments were conducted. The first experiment employed a randomized 2 (CSR fit: high fit vs low fit) × 2 (good reputation vs bad reputation) × 2 (Industry: food retailing and insurance) full factorial design to examine the suggested hypotheses. The second study employed a randomized 2 (CSR fit: high fit vs low fit) × 2 (good reputation vs bad reputation) full factorial design with consumer samples to replicate the conceptual relationships among variables in the first study.

Findings

While reputation plays a dominant role in influencing stakeholders’ CSR-related responses across both CSR fit situations, a SA partially mediates the relationship between reputation and stakeholder reactions. CSR fit interacts with reputation, and influences the partial mediation process through SA; under a bad reputation condition, low-fit CSR engenders less SA and results in better stakeholder reactions. A similar tendency was found with supportive communication intent and purchase intent. High-fit CSR initiatives by a negative reputation company engendered the weakest supportive intent and purchase intent. For a reputable company, across both CSR fits, respondents displayed generally very positive attitudes toward, greater intent to support, and intent to purchase from the company.

Originality/value

The study findings provide useful and empirically supported logical explanations of why high-fit CSR programs sometimes cause backlash effects, despite the general consensus that such initiatives generate positive outcomes. This study offers an alternative and more relevant perspective to conceptualize the complexity of anticipating CSR outcomes.
Employees’ perceived benefits from participating in CSR activities and implications for increasing employees engagement in CSR
Authors: Koch Carina , Bekmeier-Feuerhahn Sigrid , Bögel Paula Maria , Adam Ulrike
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The involvement of employees in a company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR program) is one of the key factors for its success. Hence, it is important to understand employees’ reactions to participatory CSR activities. The purpose of this paper is to examine what kinds of benefits employees perceive from participating in CSR, to identify varying levels of participation and to discuss the reciprocal relationship between the perception of benefits and participation.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on semi-structured interviews with employees, the structuring content analysis resulted in a differentiated examination of perceived benefit clusters (classified as functional, emotional and meaning and morality) and in a clustered exploration of varying levels of participation (cognitive and behavioral).

Findings

The findings reveal that employees perceived all three clusters of benefits in relation to no/low, passive, active and enthusiastic levels of participation. The data provide insights into the relationship between perceived benefits and varying levels of participation, with a balanced and differentiated perception of benefits seeming to relate to higher levels of participation. However, employees may also benefit without a behavioral form of participation, for instance, from an improved team spirit.

Originality/value

Due to its methodological approach, this empirical study provides a rich picture of employees’ benefits according to varying levels of participation. The paper contributes to current CSR literature by examining self-oriented benefits, through identifying differing levels of participation, and by discussing their reciprocal relation. These findings contribute to research and practice through the implications for promoting sustainability approaches within companies.
Gender differences in job dissatisfaction in a developing country
Authors: Monte Paulo Aguiar do
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between job dissatisfaction and gender using an objective behavioural measure variable for dissatisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

A monthly household panel structure was drawn from the Brazilian labour market, and a variety of econometric methodologies was applied.

Findings

This finding contradicts most articles published on the subject and corroborates the theoretical argument that women tend to be more risk-averse than men in the rates of labour turnover.

Research limitations/implications

There are no sample surveys to address issue directly, thereby restricting the analyses to an individual study case. The concept of relative dissatisfaction is adopted, which can lead to either underestimation or overestimation, although this possibility has not been proven according to the sensitivity analysis applied.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature by carrying out the first empirical analysis on the relationship between job satisfaction and gender using a categorial variable, which minimises the bias of subjectivity (psychological factors) since it is associated with employees’ attitude (what they do) rather than their opinion (what they say) about job dissatisfaction. The paper uses appropriate econometric methods to measure job dissatisfaction. The results differ from most published articles on the subject.
A welding seam identification method based on cross-modal perception
Authors: Li Xinde , Li Pei , Khyam Mohammad Omar , He Xiangheng , Ge Shuzhi Sam
Published: May 2019

Purpose

As an automatic welding process may experience some disturbances caused by, for example, splashes and/or welding fumes, misalignments/poor positioning, thermally induced deformations, strong arc lights and diversified welding joints/grooves, precisely identifying the welding seam has a great influence on the welding quality. This paper aims to propose a robust method for identifying this seam based on cross-modal perception.

Design/methodology/approach

First, after a welding image obtained from a structured-light vision sensor (here laser and vision are integrated into a cross-modal perception sensor) is filtered, in a sufficiently small area, the extended Kalman filter is used to prevent possible disturbances to search for its laser stripe. Second, to realize the extraction of the profile of welding seam, the least square method is used to fit a sequence of centroids determined by the scanning result of columns displayed on the tracking window. Third, this profile is then qualitatively described and matched using a proposed character string method.

Findings

It is demonstrated that it maintains real time and is clearly superior in terms of accuracy and robustness, though its real-time performance is not the best.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a robust method for automatically identifying and tracking a welding seam.
The role of audit committee attributes in corporate sustainability reporting
Authors: Buallay Amina , Al-Ajmi Jasim
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the extent to which sustainability reporting by banks in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is affected by the attributes of audit committees.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is positivist and quantitative, based on a cross-sectional and time series analysis of 59 banks from 2013 to 2017. A multivariate model is used to investigate the impact of selected audit committee attributes (financial expertise, size, members’ independence and meeting frequency) on sustainability reporting. The model is built on agency, legitimacy, resources and stakeholders theories.

Findings

In contrast to the hypothesis, the authors report a negative association between financial expertise and sustainability reporting. Members’ independence and meeting frequency play a positive role in determining the extent of disclosure. The control variables (bank size, age and auditor type) are positively associated with corporate sustainability reporting.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitations of this study are related to the chosen attributes of audit committee and do not consider the board’s attributes. However, the authors believe these limitations do not affect the findings. Future research that includes more attributes when they became available will offer more insights into the role of audit committees on sustainability disclosure of financial institutions. Overcoming these limitations may make the results more generalizable.

Practical implications

The results of this study have important implications for regulators, bank management, investors and creditors. For regulators, in the countries of the GCC and in countries like them, the findings reveal the importance of disclosure requirements. The development of disclosure requirements is likely to improve corporate sustainability reporting and reduce variations in the extent of disclosure among banks. Banks could use these results to improve their reporting to outsiders. For creditors and investors, the study improves their awareness of the importance of corporate social responsibility, corporate governance and environmental information on credit and investment decisions and encourages banks to improve their disclosures of non-financial information.

Originality/value

This research makes a contribution to the scarce literature on sustainability reporting by banks, especially in an environment where capital markets lack active institutional investors, where regulators play the dominant role in determining the extent of disclosure and where banks are the main source of external finance for the corporate sector.
The role of district leaders for organization social capital
Authors: Hooge Edith H. , Moolenaar Nienke M. , van Look Karin C.J. , Janssen Selma K. , Sleegers Peter J.C.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Although it is assumed that school district governance by districts leaders can impact schools’ capacity to improvement and educational quality, there is little systematic evidence to support this claim. The purpose of this paper is to discuss how governance goals and interventions affect school districts’ social capital.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical enquiry used quantitative data on district leaders enacting governance as perceived by their school principals. These data were collected among 399 school principals of 23 Dutch school districts in elementary education, using a survey. Social network data on social capital within school districts were collected using a social network survey among educational administrators (i.e. district leaders, central office administrators and school principals). Additionally, examples of the relation between school district social capital and governance at six school districts were described.

Findings

Results suggest that district leaders can promote the organizational social capital of their school districts through focusing on educational goals. In addition, the findings show that they can reinforce their impact by using interventions varying in coercion level, of which offering support to school principals appears to be “a golden button” to make organizational social capital thrive.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations to the study are the generalizability of the findings (they can be questioned because “convenience sampling” was used) and warrant a longitudinal design to examine how organization social capital develops over time.

Originality/value

The study is unique as it addresses the impact district leaders may have on their districts’ social capital by focusing on social network approach in the study of school district governance.
Principal support of student psychological needs and a functional instructional core
Authors: Adams Curt M. , Olsen Jentre J.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Limited attention to messages transmitted between principals and teachers led to the general question for this study: is principal support of student psychological needs related to functional social conditions within the instructional core? Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to define principal support of student psychological needs and explain its leadership function through the lens of conversation theory. Without much empirical evidence to draw from, a theoretical argument for how principal support of student psychological needs might influence the features of the teaching and learning environment is advanced then tested empirically.

Design/methodology/approach

Hypotheses were tested using a non-experimental, correlational research design based on ex-post facto data collected from teachers and students in 93 schools in a metropolitan city of the USA. Data were collected in the spring of 2017 from randomly sampled teachers and students in the 93 schools. Usable responses were received from 1,168 teachers, yielding a response rate of 66 percent. A total of 4,523 students received surveys and usable responses were received from 3,301, yielding a response rate of 73 percent. Multi-level modeling was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Principal support of student psychological needs was related to school-level differences in faculty trust in students, collective teacher efficacy and student perceived autonomy support. Leadership practices surrounding professional development and instructional coherence had moderately strong, positive relationships with the outcome variables; however, the strength of these relationships diminished when principal support was included in the analysis.

Originality/value

The argument in this study proposes that principal–teacher conversations enhance leadership practices and support a vibrant and engaging instructional core when intentional messages build mental representations that enable teachers to understand sources of optimal student growth. Such use of conversation extends the functionality of principal–teacher interactions beyond that of teacher control and toward an ongoing sense-making and learning process.
Effectiveness of CFRP composites on compression flange of structural I-beam
Authors: Jagtap Prashant Rangrao , Pore Sachin M.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This study aims to use carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates to strengthen the compression flange of structural I-beam so as to avoid local failure of compression flange and to take a load to its full capacity. Light weight beam (LB) 100 at 5.1 kg/m and LB 115 at 8.1 kg/m are used for this purpose. The compression flange of a beam is well prepared to ensure a rust-free surface so as to achieve proper bonding between the flange and fiber sheet to avoid de-bonding at the time of testing. A flange of the beam is strengthened using CFRP sheets applied to it with the help of adhesive. The beam with CFRP is cured in air for 48 h before testing. Experiments are performed in a loading frame of 100 T capacity. Results show that the load carrying capacity of the strengthened beam increased by 25-30 per cent compared to the control beam (non-strengthened), and the local failure of the compression flange due to the applied load is totally avoided. The elastic behavior of the strengthened beam is also increased compared to the non-strengthened beam, which gives a higher yield point.

Design/methodology/approach

Different methods exist for strengthening various structures. Use of CFRP appears to be an excellent solution. Vast research has been conducted on the use of CFRP for strengthening and retrofitting of steel structures. The load carrying capacities of steel beams can be increased by strengthening their compression flange by using CFRP and avoiding the local failure of beams at early stages.

Findings

The load carrying capacity of a beam strengthened with CFRP increased by 25-30 per cent compared to the non-strengthened beam. In addition, the elastic behavior of the strengthened beam is also improved.

Originality/value

The compression flange of the steel beam is strengthened using different layers of CFRP strips to avoid the local failure, and its deflection is observed using linear variable deformation transducer.
Energy efficiency for cooling buildings in hot and dry regions using sol-air temperature and ground temperature effects
Authors: Mostafaeipour Ali , Goudarzi Hossein , Sedaghat Ahmad , Jahangiri Mehdi , Hadian Hengameh , Rezaei Mostafa , Golmohammadi Amir-Mohammad , Karimi Parniyan
Published: May 2019

Purpose

In hot and dry climates, air conditioning accounts for a large portion of total energy consumption; therefore, this paper aims to investigate the impact of sol-air temperature and ground temperature on the loss of cooling energy in hot and dry regions of Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

In line with this objective, the values of sol-air temperature along different directions and ground temperature at different depths were assessed with respect to climatic data of Yazd City. The impact of sol-air temperature and ground temperature on the rate of heat loss was investigated. So, energy loss of the walls aligned to four primary directions was calculated. This process was repeated for a 36 m2 building with three different shape factors. All analyses were conducted for the period from May to September, during which buildings need to be cooled by air conditioners.

Findings

Numerical analyses conducted for hot and dry climate show that sol-air temperature leads to a 41-17 per cent increase in the wall’s energy loss compared with ambient temperature. Meanwhile, building the wall below the surface leads to a significant reduction in energy loss. For example, building the wall 400 cm below the surface leads to about 74.8-79.2 per cent energy saving compared with above ground design. The results also show that increasing the direct contact between soil and building envelope decreases the energy loss, so energy loss of a building that is built 400 cm below the surface is 53.7-55.3 per cent lower than that of a building built above the surface.

Originality/value

The impact of sol-air temperature and ground temperature on the cooling energy loss of a building in hot and dry climate was investigated. Numerical analysis shows that solar radiation increases heat loss from building envelope. Soil temperature fluctuations decrease with depth. Heat loss from building envelope in an underground building is lower than that from building envelope in a building built above the ground. Three different shape factors showed that sol-air temperature has the maximum impact on square-shaped plan and minimal impact on buildings with east-west orientation.
Advantages and potential challenges of data management in e-maintenance
Authors: Razmi-Farooji Arian , Kropsu-Vehkaperä Hanna , Härkönen Janne , Haapasalo Harri
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to understand data management challenges in e-maintenance systems from a holistically viewpoint through summarizing the earlier scattered research in the field, and second, to present a conceptual approach for addressing these challenges in practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is realized as a combination of a literature review and by the means of analyzing the practices on an industry leader in manufacturing and maintenance services.

Findings

This research provides a general understanding over data management challenges in e-maintenance and summarizes their associated proposed solutions. In addition, this paper lists and exemplifies different types and sources of data which can be collected in e-maintenance, across different organizational levels. Analyzing the data management practices of an e-maintenance industry leader provides a conceptual approach to address identified challenges in practice.

Research limitations/implications

Since this paper is based on studying the practices of a single company, it might be limited to generalize the results. Future research topics can focus on each of mentioned data management challenges and also validate the applicability of presented model in other companies and industries.

Practical implications

Understanding the e-maintenance-related challenges helps maintenance managers and other involved stakeholders in e-maintenance systems to better solve the challenges.

Originality/value

The so-far literature on e-maintenance has been studied with narrow focus to data and data management in e-maintenance appears as one of the less studied topics in the literature. This research paper contributes to e-maintenance by highlighting the deficiencies of the discussion surrounding the perspectives of data management in e-maintenance by studying all common data management challenges and listing different types of data which need to be acquired in e-maintenance systems.
Aircraft turbines time-to-failures process modeling using RBF NN
Authors: Al-Garni Ahmed Z. , Abdelrahman Wael G. , Abdallah Ayman M.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to formulate a specialized artificial neural network algorithm utilizing radial basis function (RBF) for modeling of time to failure of aircraft engine turbines.

Design/methodology/approach

The model uses training failure data collected from operators of turboprop aircraft working in harsh desert conditions where sand erosion is a detrimental factor in reducing turbine life. Accordingly, the model is more suited to accurate prediction of life of critical components of such engines. The used RBF employs a closest neighbor type of classifier and the hidden unit’s activation is based on the displacement between the early prototype and the input vector.

Findings

The results of the algorithm are compared to earlier work utilizing Weibull regression modeling, as well as Feed Forward Back Propagation NN. The results show that the failure rates estimated by RBF more closely match actual failure data than the estimations by both other models. The trained model showed reasonable accuracy in predicting future failure events. Moreover, the technique is shown to have comparatively higher efficiency even with reduced number of neurons in each layer of ANN. This significantly decreases computation time with minimum effect on the accuracy of results.

Originality/value

Using RBF technique significantly decreases the computational time with minimum effect on the accuracy of results.
Adaptive prediction model for effective electrical machine maintenance
Authors: D. Ganga , V. Ramachandran
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an optimal predictive model for the short-term forecast of real-time non-stationary machine variables by combining time series prediction with adaptive algorithms to minimize the error and to improve the prediction accuracy.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model is applied for prediction of speed and controller set point of three-phase induction motor operating on closed loop speed control with AC drive and PI controller. At Stage 1, the trend of the machine variables has been extracted and added to auto-regressive moving average (ARMA) time series prediction. ARMA prediction has been carried out using different combinations of AR and MA methods in order to make prediction with less Mean Squared Error (MSE).

Findings

The prediction error indicates the inadequacy of the model to estimate the data characteristics, which has been resolved at the subsequent stage by cascading an adaptive least mean square finite impulse response filter to the time series model. The adaptive filter receives the predicted output including training data and iteratively adjusts its coefficients for zero error convergence.

Research limitations/implications

The componentized data prediction based on time series and cascade adaptive filter algorithm decomposes the non-stationary data characteristics for predictive maintenance. Evaluation of the model with different combination of time series algorithms and parameter settings of adaptive filter has been carried out to illustrate the performance of the prediction model. This prediction accuracy is compared with existing linear adaptive filter prediction using MSE as comparison index. The wide margin in the MSE values substantiates the prediction efficiency of the proposed model for machine data.

Originality/value

This model predicts the dynamic machine data with component decomposition at high accuracy, which enables to interpret the system response under dynamic conditions efficiently.
Photophysical property, electronic structure and solid-state packing of O-heterocyclic annulated perylene diimide
Authors: Li Wenjing , Wang Qi , Ma Yongshan , Jiang Tianyi , Zhu Yanyan , Shao Yuanyuan , Sun Cuizhen , Wu Junsen
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Self-organization has been regarded as a tool for the synthesis of well-defined organic nanostructures. Heterocyclic annulated perylene diimides are the subjects of considerable current research studies. The purpose of this study is to reveal the photophysical property, electronic structure and solid-state packing of O-heterocyclic annulated perylene diimide.

Design/methodology/approach

Asymmetrically five-membered O-heterocyclic annulated perylene diimide (OAPDI) was synthesized. Structure and purity of OAPDI were confirmed by1H NMR,13C NMR, IR and mass spectral techniques. Photophysical properties of OAPDI were studied using UV–vis absorption and fluorescence in both solution (CHCl3) and solid state. Scanning electron microscopic and atomic force microscopy were used to characterize the surface morphology of OAPDI. Conducting properties of the OAPDI were evaluated by current–voltage measurements. The compounds geometries were also optimized at 6-31G* using density functional theory.

Findings

The UV–vis absorption and fluorescence spectra of OAPDI in solution are blue-shifted in comparison with that of unsubstituted perylene bisimide. Solid-state UV–vis measurements of OAPDI indicate that it is capable of forming highly ordered structure. The non-covalent interactions, electrostatic attraction and p-p stacking moieties of OAPDI synergistically guide assembly and domain growth while maintaining the interpenetrating network of nanofibers in the solid film. The OAPDI gave higher current at −2.0 V (0.68µA) and 4.0 V (1.0µA).

Originality/value

This study will be helpful for exploring feasible routes to acquire soluble perylene diimides and well-defined organic nanostructures. Furthermore, such molecular tailoring approach would be helpful for designing and synthesizing novel organic semiconductive materials with excellent charge-transporting and light-emitting capabilities.
Chlorinated reclaimed rubber: preparation, structure and performance
Authors: Yao Yutian , Song Qiusheng , Cheng Xiansu , Song Yonghai , Liu Ben
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of chlorination on the structure and properties of reclaimed rubber and to discuss the feasibility of a novel method to chlorinate reclaimed rubber.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of chlorinated reclaimed rubber with different chlorination degrees (CD) was prepared by suspension chlorination in aqueous phase (SCAP). Their structure and performance were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, energy dispersive spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric and mechanical property test.

Findings

The chemistry structure, mechanical performance and heat resistance of CRR is affected greatly by its CD.

Research limitations/implications

Although in the present work only chlorination of reclaimed rubber is researched, but this method can be used to modify other recycled rubber.

Practical implications

SCAP is a useful method to produce CRR, and it is feasible for production of chlorinated recycled rubber in large scale. The present work provides a new strategy to fabricate new materials based on recycled rubber.

Social implications

Chlorination of reclaimed rubber by SCAP is useful to convert waste rubber into new materials, and it is useful to decrease environment pollution.

Originality/value

SCAP method provides a new technology to chlorinate waste rubber with many merits, such as chlorination rate of RR is accelerated and the reaction can be controlled or adjusted easily. Moreover, conversion of chlorine is increased remarkably.
Business strategy for environmental social governance practices: evidence from telecommunication companies in Malaysia
Authors: Jasni Nur Syuhada , Yusoff Haslinda , Zain Mustaffa Mohamed , Md Yusoff Noreena , Shaffee Nor Syafinaz
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The present digital era has integrated the conventional telecommunications companies as service providers in this ever-competitive environment. Towards gaining business competitiveness, businesses are operated from the stance of dynamic business model that places focus on both economic activities and, more importantly, value-added benefits. One essential value embedded into business strategies refers to the aspect of sustainability in conjunction to environmental social governance (ESG). Within the context of Malaysia, ESG practices have been expected to grow rapidly in years to come, along with the vision of becoming a digital economy nation, by 2050. The continuous discussions appear to support the significance of implementing ESG practices amidst organizations, which in turn, could enhance a more sustainable economic growth for the country. Although many studies have probed into the dimensions of ESG, little attention has been given to the ESG practices incorporated into business strategy agenda.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper combed through the literature to retrieve the multi-dimensions of ESG concepts, as well as related in-depth insights into ESG disclosures amongst leading companies established in Malaysia. As for the research design, this study used the content analysis method and the ESG Grid as the benchmarking tool to explore superior commitments amongst its peers.

Findings

As a result, this study stumbled upon two major outcomes: the pattern of ESG disclosures in telecommunications industry and the approaches in implementing ESG practices in telecommunications companies. These two aspects appear essential to establish a competitive advantage, apart from addressing the issues raised by concerned stakeholders.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies may explore deeper into comprehending the ESG practices by using the interview method and incorporating other industry or arena.

Practical implications

The decisions made by the companies to invest in ESG practices mark the ability of a company in devising viable survival strategies within the industry.

Originality/value

Hence, this study offers several vital insights into the practical value to learn from the best experiences, aside from analyzing the current progress of ESG practices within the context of developing nation.
Socially responsible supply chain management in small and medium enterprises in the GCC
Authors: Al-Esmael Bader , Talib Faisal , Faisal Mohd. Nishat , Jabeen Fauzia
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine variables and their relationships that hinder socially responsible behaviours in the supply chain of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses the mixed-method approach that includes the survey method and soft mathematical modelling. Empirical data were collected from 130 SMEs and their suppliers based in Qatar and Oman. Furthermore, to understand the barriers and their interrelationships, interpretive structural modelling approach is applied.

Findings

The results of empirical study reveal lack of coherence among SMEs and their suppliers in prioritising social responsibility issues in their supply chain. The hierarchy-based model reveals that shortages of incentive, short-term objectives, the lack of cooperation and willingness among supply chain partners, constraints (financial, managerial and technological) and the pressure from customers were the independent barriers and have strong driving power.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study are expected to provide an insight to further improve and promote socially responsible supply chain in emerging economies in Gulf region. Future research could compare the socially responsible activities of SMEs from different Gulf countries and expand the understanding of the barriers that outline the responses of suppliers situated in different Gulf economies.

Originality/value

The results contribute to the field of supply chain sustainability as the first academic attempt to shed light on how SMEs in GCC are dealing with supply chain social responsibility issues and one of the few in the emerging economy perspective that probes the key role of barriers to improve the socially responsible behaviour of Gulf-based SMEs.
Soret and Dufour effects on unsteady Casson magneto-nanofluid flow over an inclined plate embedded in a porous medium
Authors: Falodun Bidemi Olumide , Ahamed M.S. Sami
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider a two-dimensional unsteady Casson magneto-nanfluid flow over an inclined plate embedded in a porous medium. The novelty of the present study is to investigate the effects of Soret–Dufour on unsteady magneto-nanofluid flow.

Design/methodology/approach

Appropriate similarity transformations are used to convert the governing non-linear partial differential equations into coupled non-linear dimensionless partial differential equations. The transformed equations are then solved using spectral relaxation method.

Findings

The effects of controlling parameters on flow profiles is discussed and depicted with the aid of graphs. Results show that as the non-Newtonian Casson nanofluid parameter increases, the fluid velocity decreases. It is found that the Soret parameter enhance the temperature profile, while Dufour parameter decreases the concentration profile close to the wall.

Originality/value

The novelty of this paper is to consider the combined effects of both Soret and Dufour on unsteady Casson magneto-nanofluid flow. The present model is in an inclined plate embedded in a porous medium which to the best of our knowledge has not been considered in the past. The applied magnetic field gives rise to an opposing force which slows the motion of the fluid. A newly developed spectral method known as spectral relaxation method (SRM) is used in solving the modeled equations. SRM is an iterative method that employ the Gauss–Seidel approach in solving both linear and non-linear differential equations. SRM is found to be effective and accurate.
Coaggregation and biofilm formation of Leptospira with Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Vinod Kumar Kirubakaran , Lall Chandan , Raj Ratchagadasse Vimal , Vijayachari Paluru
Published: May 2019

It is not known how Leptospira react to wound or a cut infected with microbes, such as pathogenic Staphylococcus, or their common habitat on oral or nasal mucosal membranes. In the present study, Staphylococcus aureus MTCC‐737 showed strong co‐aggregation with leptospiral strains (>75%, visual score of + 4) in vitro. All tested strains of Leptospira were able to form biofilm with S. aureus. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed intertwined networks of attached cells of L. interrogans and S. aureus, thus providing evidence of a matrix‐like structure. This phenomenon may have implications in Leptospira infection, which occurs via cuts and wounds of the skin.
Bacteriophage versus antibiotic therapy on gut bacterial communities of juvenile green turtle, Chelonia mydas
Authors: Ahasan Md. Shamim , Kinobe Robert , Elliott Lisa , Owens Leigh , Scott Jenni , Picard Jacqueline , Huerlimann Roger , Ariel Ellen
Published: May 2019

Green turtles are endangered marine herbivorous hindgut fermenters that contribute to a variety of marine ecosystems. Debilitated turtles are often rehabilitated in turtle hospitals. Since accurate diagnosis of disease is difficult, broad‐spectrum antibiotics are routinely used as a general treatment, potentially causing collateral damage to the gut microbiome of the patient. Here, we evaluated the concept of the application of bacteriophage (phages) to eliminate targeted intestinal bacteria as an alternative to a broad‐spectrum antibiotic (enrofloxacin) in clinically healthy, captive green turtles. Additionally, the impact of a broad‐spectrum antibiotic (enrofloxacin) and phage therapy on the gut bacterial communities of green turtles was evaluated. Gut bacterial communities in faecal samples were analysed by sequencing the V1‐V3 regions of the bacterial 16S rRNA. Bacteria‐specific phage cocktails significantly (P < 0.05) reduced targeted Acinetobacter in phage‐treated turtles during the therapy. Compared to control, no significant difference was observed in the bacterial diversity and compositions in phage‐treated turtles. In contrast, bacterial diversity was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in antibiotic‐treated turtles at day 15 and throughout the trial. The alteration in the bacterial microbiota of antibiotic‐treated turtles was largely due to an increase in abundance of Gram‐positive Firmicutes and a concurrent decrease in Gram‐negative Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria and Verrucomicrobia. Additionally, we observed the relative abundance of several bacteria at lower taxonomic level was much less affected by phages than by antibiotics. These data offer the proof of concept of phage therapy to manipulate transient as well as indigenous bacterial flora in gut‐related dysbiosis of turtles.
Topographical Deixis in Trans‐Himalayan (Sino‐Tibetan) Languages
Authors: Post Mark W.
Published: May 2019

‘Topographical deixis’ refers to a variety of spatial‐environmental deixis in which typically distal reference to entities is made in terms of a set of topographically‐anchored referential planes: most often,upward, downward, oron the same level. Thus defined, topographical deixis is a pervasive feature of Trans‐Himalayan (= Sino‐Tibetan) languages. However, while there have been several descriptions of Trans‐Himalayan topographical deixis at the language or subgroup level, there has been as yet no account of its overall status and distribution within the family. The primary goal of this paper is to provide an account of topographical deixis from a pan‐Trans‐Himalayan perspective, to the maximum extent possible on the basis of existing descriptions. It discusses its formal coding, functions, distribution within the family, and environmental correlations. In addition to providing a benchmark account of the nature and distribution of topographical deixis within the Trans‐Himalayan family, this study thus contributes to cross‐linguistic typologies of spatial deictic systems and their environmental‐interactional motivations more generally.
Rule of 4’s: Safe and effective pleural decompression and chest drain insertion in severely injured children
Authors: Teague Warwick J , Amarakone Keith V , Quinn Nuala
Published: May 2019

The intersecting scenarios of multi‐trauma, thoracic injury and traumatic cardiac arrest present some of the most demanding moments in paediatric trauma. For these reasons, decision support through teamwork, checklists, technology and guidelines are central to ensuring quality paediatric trauma care. The ‘Rule of 4's’ is a simple aide‐memoire, which guides clinicians of all grades, expertise and distractedness in a reliable approach to injured children who require safe and effective emergency pleural decompression and timely insertion of a chest drain. The Rule of 4’s enables these important therapeutic goals to be met through: (i) four steps in a ‘good plan’; (ii) fourth (or fifth) intercostal space as the basis for siting a ‘good hole’; (iii) 4× uncuffed endotracheal tube size (4× [age/4 + 4]) to guide selection of a ‘good tube’; and (iv) 4 cm mark for a ‘good stop’ to ensure the drain is in far enough but not too far.
Sweet Taste Receptor Expression and Its Activation by Sucralose to Regulate Glucose Absorption in Mouse Duodenum
Authors: Shi Qing , Zhu Xuemei , Deng Shaoping
Published: May 2019

Sucralose (SUC) has been used in the food industry for nearly 30 years since it was first allowed as an artificial sweetener at the end of the 20th century. However, its effects on the body remain not incontrovertible. This work aimed to investigate the influence of SUC exposure on sweetness receptors and glucose absorption and to explore the relationship between them. Mice were exposed with different concentration of SUC (from 0.27 to 0.47 g/L) for 12 weeks. Long‐term treatment with SUC resulted in impaired glucose metabolism, manifested in the decrease of glucose tolerance and the increase of sweet taste receptors, glucose transporters, and glucose absorption. This study also provides a method to quantify the glucose absorptivity. In detail, with increasing concentration of SUC, the glucose absorptivities in the dodecadactylon of mice were added 1.48, 1.56, 1.71, and 1.71 times, respectively, showing wide interindividual variation compared with the control group.

Practical Application

The artificial sweetener, sucralose, has physiological influences of changing glucose metabolism. The small bowel is the main location for glucose metabolism and absorbs the ingested proteins and carbohydrates. And, this study provides a method to quantify the glucose absorptivity of intestine.
The Effect of µ/m‐Calpain on Protein Degradation of Chicken Breast Meat
Authors: Huang Jichao , Zhao Liang , Yang Jing , Zhang Baohua , Xu Xinglian , Chen Kenjie , Huang Ming
Published: May 2019

This study was designed to determine the effects of µ/m‐calpain on the degradation of cytoskeletal proteins in pectoralis major. Four chickens were slaughtered and the breasts were removed and stored for 12 hr at 4 °C. Each sample was divided into three groups and respectively immersed in control reagent, calpain inhibitor, and caspase inhibitor at 4 °C. The samples were used to evaluate troponin‐T and desmin degradation, calpain activity, and myofibril ultrastructure at 12 hr, day 1, day 3, and day 7. Casein zymography revealed that µ‐calpain could not be detected in all samples after 12 hr postmortem. The calpain inhibitor inhibited µ/m‐calpain activity and reduced troponin‐T and desmin degradation during 7 day postmortem. The caspase inhibitor inhibited µ/m‐calpain activity and, troponin‐T and desmin degradation before day 3 postmortem. The findings suggest that, µ/m‐calpain had an effect on cytoskeletal protein degradation after 12 hr postmortem.
A rapid environmental DNA method for detecting white sharks in the open ocean
Authors: Truelove Nathan K. , Andruszkiewicz Elizabeth A. , Block Barbara A.
Published: May 2019

Environmental DNA (eDNA) research often requires returning to the laboratory for processing, which can delay species identification by weeks–months.

Using a portable Oxford Nanopore MinIon sequencer, eDNA from white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) was rapidly identified from seawater samples collected in the high seas where they have historically been identified with biologging datasets.

A total of 10 sequencing runs were performed on the MinIon onboard an oceanographic vessel with a turnaround time from water collection to sequence results and annotation of ~48 hr.

Identifying vertebrates by amplifying eDNA from seawater provides a novel approach for sampling and detecting the presence of elusive species of conservation importance in remote locations.
Impact of Exchange Stay on Alcohol Consumption: Longitudinal Exploration in a Large Sample of European Students
Authors: Dormal Valérie , Lannoy Séverine , Maurage Pierre
Published: May 2019

Background

Each year, more than 300,000 university students take part in European exchange programs. Besides their positive educational and cultural impacts, these programs are also reputed to immerse students in a high‐risk festive context where excessive alcohol consumption is strongly present. There is thus a crucial need to evaluate the actual impact of those exchange stays on alcohol consumption.

Methods

Study abroad (n = 3,950) and local (n = 3,950) European students completed a 2‐part longitudinal survey and reported their alcohol consumption before (T1) and during (T2) their exchange stay (or at the beginning of the academic year and 6 months later for local students, constituting the control group).

Results

During their exchange stay, individuals studying abroad showed more excessive and harmful alcohol consumption behaviors than local students, as measured by increased general alcohol consumption and binge drinking (BD) scores at T2. In particular, study abroad students under 20 years of age and performing their exchange stay in eastern Europe were the most exposed to excessive alcohol consumption and BD.

Conclusions

These results constitute the first large‐scale longitudinal confirmation that exchange stays indeed constitute risky contexts in which students significantly increase their consumption and present stronger alcohol‐related problems. In view of the rapid and deleterious effects of alcohol consumption in young people, it is essential to promote prevention campaigns targeting this population to limit public health consequences and possible evolution toward severe alcohol use disorders.