bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Corrosion of AM60B magnesium alloy in simulated acid rain
Authors: Hu Ting‐Ting , Xiang Bin , Liao Shi‐Guo , Huang Wen‐Zhang 
Published: September 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to research the corrosion behavior of AM60B magnesium alloy in simulated acid rain. Specifically, this paper aims to investigate the effect of pH on the corrosion behavior of the alloy.Design/methodology/approachElectrochemical methods and surface analysis were applied to study the corrosion behavior of AM60B magnesium alloy in simulated acid rain.FindingsResults showed that changes in pH can influence the corrosion potential and corrosion current of the alloy. In particular, the anodic process was affected. The protective film on the surface of AM60B magnesium alloy was destroyed in simulated acid rain. The type of corrosion attack observed on the surface of the alloy was pitting damage. Numerous deep pits were formed on the surface. Corrosion products were mainly composed of MgO and MgAl2(SO4)4 · 2H2O.Originality/valueThe paper provides fundamental experimental data for clarifying the mechanism of the effects of acid rain on the corrosion of magnesium alloys.
Factors influencing intentions to take precautions to avoid consuming food containing dairy products
Authors: Lu Hung‐Yi , Hou Hsin‐Ya , Dzwo Tzong‐Horng , Wu Yi‐Chen , Andrews James E. , Weng Shao‐Ting , Lin Mei‐Chun , Lu Jun‐Ying 
Published: September 2010

PurposeThe melamine milk scandal caused a crisis of confidence in food containing dairy products. The purpose of this paper is to explore the determinants of precautionary behaviour to avoid food containing dairy products among Taiwanese college students.Design/methodology/approachOf the total respondents selected using a multistage cluster sampling plan, 1,213 respondents completed the questionnaire.FindingsThe survey results showed that subjective norms, attitude, perceived behavioural control, attention to news, and perceived credibility of information are significantly associated with the intention to take precautionary behaviour.Originality/valueThe paper developed a modified theory of planned behaviour (TPB) that focused on attention and perceived credibility of milk scandal‐related information as additional determinants of precautionary behaviour to avoid food containing dairy products. The inclusion of attention and perceived credibility of information constructs enabled a better model fit than that of the TPB model.
Consumer evaluations of food risk management in Russia
Authors: Popova Ksenia , Frewer Lynne J. , De Jonge Janneke , Fischer Arnout , Van Kleef Ellen 
Published: September 2010

PurposeConsumer perceptions regarding what constitutes best food risk management (FRM) practice may vary as a consequence of cross‐cultural differences in consumer perceptions, cultural contexts, and historical differences in governance practices and occurrence of food safety incidents. The purpose of this paper is to compare the views of Russian consumers with those of consumers in European Union member states.Design/methodology/approachA survey previously conducted in five EU member states was replicated using a Russian consumer sample (n=460, SEM analysis). Psychological factors underpinning consumer evaluations of food risk management quality (FRMQ) were identified. A qualitative study (consumer focus group, n=9) allowed for in‐depth interpretation of the quantitative results.FindingsRussian consumers hold similar views to consumers in EU member states regarding their perceptions of what constitutes effective FRM practices. However, the perceived honesty of food chain actors was an important determinant of perceived FRMQ only for Russian consumers, who also perceived that they were primarily responsible for their own food‐related health protection. EU consumers attributed more responsibility to food chain actors and the authorities.Research limitations/implicationsThe analysis compared Russian consumers with consumers in five different EU member states. The results cannot be extended to compare Russian consumers with the entire EU.Practical implicationsAn international risk communication policy is likely to be impractical, and should be developed at a national or regional level. Given that Russian consumers take personal responsibility for their own health protection, information needs to be provided to enable them to do so.Originality/valueTo the authors knowledge, this is the first comparative analysis of the determinants of perceptions of effective FRM held by Russian consumers with consumers from within the EU regulatory area.
Marketing concentration and geographical dispersion
Authors: Ilbery Brian , Courtney Paul , Kirwan James , Maye Damian 
Published: September 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the proportion and distribution of organic produce sold through different marketing channels by a sample of organic farmers in three “core” areas of organic farming in England and Wales. More specifically, it conducts a quantitative analysis of marketing concentration and geographical dispersion within different travel time zones.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative database was constructed on the marketing channels and travel time zones used by 61 organic farmers to sell their produce and purchase necessary inputs. Indices of marketing concentration and geographical dispersion (outputs and inputs) were then calculated for each farm and region.FindingsResults indicate a high level of marketing concentration, dominated by marketing cooperatives, direct marketing and abattoir/processors. Similar levels of concentration are recorded for the indices of geographical dispersion (especially outputs). Results vary significantly between the three regions, but it is clear that organic farmers in each region make use of different combinations of marketing channels, both local and national, in increasingly hybridised and individualised supply chains.Research limitations/implicationsMany organic farmers are developing hybridised supply chains, including both local and more conventional marketing channels, and further research is needed into the identified regional differences and the reasons for developing what are often very individualised marketing chains.Originality/valueThis is the first attempt to calculate indices of marketing concentration and geographical dispersion for organic farms in different regions of England and Wales. The paper also contributes to debates on the potential impact of organic farming on rural development and the local economy.
Benefits of traceability in fish supply chains – case studies
Authors: Mai Nga , Gretar Bogason Sigurdur , Arason Sigurjon , Víkingur Árnason Sveinn , Geir Matthíasson Thórólfur 
Published: September 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate how the seafood industry perceives benefits of traceability implementation. Furthermore, ex ante cost‐benefit analyses (CBAs) of adopting new traceability systems are conducted for two firms, operating at different steps of the seafood supply chains, to obtain preliminary knowledge on the net benefits of the project and on how costs and benefits are distributed among the actors.Design/methodology/approachThis is a case‐based study.FindingsThe surveyed companies perceive improving supply chain management as the most important benefit of traceability. Other benefits are increase of the ability to retain existing customers; product quality improvement; product differentiation; and reduction of customer complaints. However, the quantifiable benefits are perceived differently by the actors at different steps in the supply chains, e.g. implementing radio frequency identification (RFID) tags on pallets in the seafood trading company case study shows tangibly quantifiable benefits.Originality/valueThe paper is useful for both practitioners and academics regarding perceived benefits of traceability in fish supply chains. The research provides initial insight into seafood companies' perspectives on the benefits of adopting RFID‐based traceability solutions. The paper suggests that the financial burden of implementing traceability may be borne by the processing firms, while gains are reaped by firms in the distribution business closer to the end consumer. This could provide a partial explanation as to why traceability has been slow to gain ground as a visible value‐adding marketing tool, and is mainly being driven by food safety regulations.
Consumer food safety education for the domestic environment: a systematic review
Authors: Milton Alyssa , Mullan Barbara 
Published: September 2010

PurposeDespite the recognised importance of food safety, a large number of consumers do not practice adequate food safety in the home. Many studies have recommended that education is a key step in preventing food‐borne illness in the domestic environment. However, few educational or psychosocial interventions have been designed and implemented to improve food safety knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. Even fewer of these studies have been subject to rigorous appraisal. The purpose of this paper is to conduct a systematic review of studies that described and evaluated a food safety intervention in a non‐clinical adult sample.Design/methodology/approachA total of ten studies met the criteria for inclusion in the systematic review. Outcomes of interest included food safety behaviour, behavioural intention, attitudes, knowledge, microbial transfer and the use of social cognition models.FindingsThe evidence regarding the effectiveness of the reviewed interventions on these food safety outcomes was somewhat positive; however, many gaps remained. For example, of the five self‐report behaviour change studies, all reported some significant improvement post‐intervention. However, the percentage of specific behaviours that significantly changed within each study varied between 0.04 and 100 per cent. There were methodological flaws in many of the studies which complicated the interpretation of these results and indicate a need for more research.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research should include better defined outcomes, longer follow‐up, more rigorous reporting of results and intervention design, the use of randomised controlled trial protocols and utilising health models to have a greater theoretical underpinning to the studies.Originality/valueThis paper is the first systematic review examining the effect of psychosocial food safety interventions on behaviour, attitudes and knowledge.
The predictive value of a small consumer panel for coffee‐cupper judgment
Authors: Arce Alvarado Randall , Linnemann Anita R. 
Published: September 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze whether consumers can discriminate coffees in the same way as a professional coffee judge, a cupper, to assess the relevance of cuppers' evaluations for taste differences perceived by consumers.Design/methodology/approachIn total, 23 samples sold in international stores as Tarrazú coffee were bought. A cupper evaluated these samples using the international cupping procedures for the quality attributes aroma, fragrance, body and acidity. Of the 23 samples, five were used in a triangle test carried out by a panel of 12 non‐expert consumers to determine if their discriminations matched the expert's judgment.FindingsResults from the cupper gave a high variability of the coffees evaluated. The results of the consumer panel demonstrated that discrimination between coffees by consumers was predicted by acidity differences assessed by the cupper. The same held for body but not necessarily for fragrance and aroma.Originality/valueThe paper revealed that discrimination between the coffees by the consumer panel matched the coffee cupper's evaluation differences. The high consistency of the results obtained from the consumer panel underpins that the respondents did not have much difficulty in rating the coffees with the same scores as the professional coffee judge. Thus, differences in coffee quality, notably with respect to acidity, are important to consider in coffee production and marketing as consumers can perceive them and thus use this information when deciding whether or not to buy the product again.
Attributes and benefits of branded bread: case Artesaani
Authors: Tikkanen Irma , Vääriskoski Mari 
Published: September 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the attributes and benefits of branded bread as perceived by the consumers.Design/methodology/approachPrevious research on bread is illustrated briefly. The concepts of brand identity and image are introduced, and the brand as a product is presented and subsequently a value proposition is described and used as a theoretical model.FindingsThe findings indicate that nine types of attributes and six types of benefits as perceived by the consumers were found. The types of attributes were related to raw materials, taste, manner of baking, characteristics of the bread, outward appearance, quality, origin, package, and comparison with competing breads. The types of benefits were classified as functional, emotional, self‐expressive, and social. Furthermore, two types of price benefits emerged (positive and negative). The targeted brand identity by the bakery and the perceived image of the branded bread by the consumers were compatible. The brand image as perceived by the customers was varied.Practical implicationsThe bakery can utilize the findings in its marketing communication, advertising, campaigns, and when planning the assortment. The findings offer valuable information also for the advertising agency when designing the advertising messages and the unique selling propositions for the case bread.Originality/valueCompared to the existing research on bread, the contribution of the results is that the bread was analysed from the point of view of the attributes and benefits it offers.
Effectiveness of library practicum: perceptions of LIS graduates in Pakistan
Authors: Malik Amara , Ameen Kanwal 
Published: September 2010

PurposeLibrary practicum is a supervised, hands‐on practice in various library functions. This paper aims to explore the effectiveness of library practicum in learning various professional skills through the perception of library information science (LIS) graduates.Design/methodology/approachSince this is a case study, multiple data collection techniques, i.e. a questionnaire survey (having both closed and open ended questions), and discussions with senior faculty members and observation (as a participant observer) are used to probe the real status. LIS graduates of PU sessions 2002‐2006 are identified as the population. The total number of the population is 367 and targeted sample is 118 graduates. Snowball sampling technique is used to reach them.FindingsThe findings reveal that well designed and well managed practicum plays a vital role in improving professional skills. Insufficient practicum duration, communication gap among three parties (students, external and internal supervisor), loose supervision and lack of focus on professional skills are the problems reported by LIS graduates.Practical implicationsAs a study of the practical elements of studying library science, the paper should be of interest to practitioners.Originality/valueThis paper is the only evaluation of library practicum in Pakistan. The findings will be helpful in designing better and more effective library practicum programs in Pakistan as well as in other developing countries.
Information capture: a key element in information behaviour
Authors: Shenton Andrew K. 
Published: September 2010

PurposeThe paper aims to highlight the role of information capture within the scope of information behaviour (IB), especially with regard to young people in academic contexts.Design/methodology/approachThe examination is based on insights from the pertinent literature and the author's considerable experience of working with youngsters.FindingsA range of forms of information capture can be identified. The process may take place at several points in the overall spectrum of IB and have various causes. Although information capture and note‐making are sometimes considered to be very similar and, on occasion, the terms are used virtually synonymously, there is strong evidence to suggest that they are actually quite separate and should not be confused.Research limitations/implicationsWork for the paper does not involve the undertaking of new, specially conducted research. Illumination is gained purely from the reading of source material and the author's reflection on his professional experience in schools.Practical implicationsAfter ascertaining the motivations behind capturing behaviour, it may be possible to identify deficiencies in students' skills, some of which may be remedied through teaching. Conversely, where capturing behaviour forms part of exemplary IB, educators may well consider instructing other students in the appropriate strategies.Originality/valueThe paper is unusual in covering an aspect of IB that is frequently overlooked in models. Although the article's principal readership is intended to be academics and information professionals, it should also be useful to teachers keen to learn more about how their students tackle assignments.
Information‐seeking behavior of management and commerce faculty in Sri Lankan universities
Authors: Wickramanayake Lalith 
Published: September 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate academics' information‐seeking behavior, information needs, and their attitudes and perceptions towards the library system in Sri Lankan universities.Design/methodology/approachThe population of the study consisted of management and commerce academics selected from three universities. The sample included 50 percent from the population and stratified random sampling technique was employed for the sample selection. Data gathering was done by means of questionnaire survey and the received raw data were analyzed accordingly.FindingsThe study found that the majority of academics were more interested in research than teaching. They had good library skills for finding information and accessing services. Most of them were unable to keep in touch with current information due to insufficiency of current resources. The attitudes of the academics towards the library staff were rather unsatisfactory. The interlibrary loan service was not effectively utilized due to academics' unawareness. Most academics were not informed when new publications had arrived, though the library requested their recommendation while acquiring new materials.Research limitations/implicationsThis study focused on only one discipline selected from multi‐disciplinary universities in Sri Lanka. This limitation affects in generalizing results within the university system in the country.Originality/valueIt was found that there had been no previous study which had studied information‐seeking behavior of business, management or commerce scholars in Sri Lanka. Hence, this study features distinctiveness within the available literature in the context of Sri Lanka.
Evaluating the skills strategy through a Graduate Certificate in Management
Authors: Butler Michael J.R. , Gheorghiu Lidia 
Published: September 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate how a UK business school is addressing the Government's skills strategy through its Graduate Certificate in Management, and to identify good practice and development needs and to clarify how the Graduate Certificate is adapting to the needs of Generation X and Millennial students. The paper also aims to test Kolb and Kolb's experiential learning theory (ELT) in a business school setting.Design/methodology/approachA case study methodology was adopted. In order to get a cross‐section of views and triangulate the data, three focus groups were held, supported by reading documentation about the programme of study.FindingsThe skills strategy is not just an ambition for some business schools, but is already part of the curriculum. Generation X and the Millennials have more in common with the positive attitudes associated with older generations than stereotyped views might allow. ELT provides a useful theoretical framework for evaluating a programme of study and student attitudes.Research limitations/implicationsThe research findings from one case study are reported, limiting the generalisability of the study.Practical implicationsGood practice and development needs are identified which support the implementation of the Government's skills strategy and address employer concerns about student skills.Originality/valueNew empirical data are reported which supports the use of ELT in evaluating programmes of study and student attitudes to work.
An exploratory study of the achievement of the twenty‐first century skills in higher education
Authors: Ghaith Ghazi 
Published: September 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the results of a survey study of the achievement of twenty‐first century skills in higher education.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a quantitative survey design.FindingsThe findings indicate that the basic scientific and technological skills of reading critically and writing persuasively as well as accessing and using information efficiently have been achieved to a great extent in the context of the study; whereas, mathematical and scientific skills and global awareness and cross‐cultural issues still need more attention. Variations in the level of mastery as well as gender differences in the achievement of certain skills clusters were also identified and discussed in light of the robustness of the theory of the “universal digital native”.Research limitations/implicationsThe results cannot be generalized into other contexts and the data were basically self‐reported and not corroborated by evidence from triangulated sources.Practical implicationsEffective dealing with the basic and technological skills should be continued; however, more attention should be given to the development of the skills in mathematics and the sciences. Likewise, the visual‐literacy skills and the levels of global awareness and cross‐cultural understanding and appreciation should be improved.Originality/valueThis exploratory study fills a knowledge gap and may set the stage for further research into the extent to which the twenty‐first century skills are being realized by institutions of higher learning given the scarcity or non‐existence of this research.