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This paper aims to explore dual solutions for the flow of a hybrid nanofluid over a permeable melting stretching/shrinking sheet with nanoparticle shape factor, second-order velocity slip conditions and viscous dissipation. The hybrid nanofluid is formulated by dispersing alumina (Al₂O₃) and copper (Cu) nanoparticles into water (H₂O).

The governing partial differential equations (PDEs) are first reduced to a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using a mathematical method of similarity transformation technique. These ODEs are then numerically solved through MATLAB’s bvp4c solver.

Key parameters such as slip parameter, melting parameter, suction parameter, shrinking parameter and Eckert number are examined. The results reveal the existence of two distinct solutions (upper and lower branches) for the transformed ODEs when considering the shrinking parameter. Increasing value of Cu-volume fraction and the second-order velocity slip enhances boundary layer thicknesses, whereas the heat transfer rate diminishes with rising melting and suction parameters. These numerical results are illustrated through various figures and tables. Additionally, a stability analysis is performed and confirms the upper branch is stable and practical, while the lower branch is unstable.

The analysis of hybrid nanofluid flow over a shrinking surface has practical significance with applications in processes such as solar thermal management systems, automotive cooling systems, sedimentation, microelectronic cooling or centrifugal separation of particles. Both steady and unsteady hybrid nanofluid flows are relevant in these contexts.

While the study of hybrid nanofluid flow is well-documented, research focusing on the shrinking flow case with specific parameters in our study is still relatively scarce. This paper contributes to obtaining dual solutions specifically for the shrinking case, which has been less frequently addressed.

This study aims to explore the factors influencing Muslim behavior toward halal nutraceutical products in Malaysia.

This study used a quantitative survey approach to 400 Muslim respondents in Malaysia who have experience in consuming or purchasing nutraceutical products. The sampling technique used was multistage stratified sampling, and the data was analyzed using structural equation modeling.

This study revealed that perceived safety is the most influential factor contributing to Muslims’ behavior toward halal nutraceutical products in Malaysia, followed by Islamic values, trust, religiosity, maqasid al-Shariah and halal literacy.

This study has only focused on halal nutraceutical products from the perspective of Muslim consumers in Malaysia.

This study contributes to understanding the factors that influence Muslim consumers’ behavior toward halal nutraceutical products by adopting the Social Cognitive Theory and Islamic Theory of Consumer Behavior.

Celebrity endorsers are usually considered to bring positive effects to associated nodes, such as brands and corporations. However, limited evidence suggests that brands and corporations are equally responsible for affecting celebrities and their credibility. Drawing on associative network theory, this study explores the effects of brand credibility and corporate credibility on celebrity credibility, both directly and through the mediating and moderating effects of advertising credibility. The research addresses three main issues: (1) whether brand credibility, corporate credibility and advertising credibility have significant effects on celebrity credibility; (2) whether advertising credibility has a significant mediating effect on the effects of brand credibility and corporate credibility on celebrity credibility and (3) whether advertising credibility has a significant moderating effect on the effects of brand credibility and corporate credibility on celebrity credibility.

The study used a quantitative approach involving structural equation modelling. Data were collected from 675 participants from London and focussed on four leading international brands, corporations and celebrity endorsers.

The findings show that brand credibility and advertising credibility have positive direct effects on celebrity credibility; and that advertising credibility mediates the effects of both credibility constructs on celebrity credibility. Furthermore, moderating effects of advertising credibility are also found.

This study will help managers to understand the reverse effects, i.e. the effects of brand credibility and corporate credibility on celebrity credibility. They will be able to understand that a credible brand and corporation like a credible celebrity can also bring significant effects on the associated elements. This will help them to recruit celebrity endorsers who have historically earned their credibility from previous endorsements of credible brands and corporations. Further, these findings will help managers to understand that credibility of the brand and corporation can also affect the credibility of the associated advertising, resulting in having a significant effect on the credibility of the celebrity. This on the consumers’ side will enhance their preferences, attitudes and behaviours, while for the corporation, it will enhance their economic and commercial performance.

This is the first study in the literature, where a conceptual model based on the reverse effects of both credibility constructs on celebrity credibility is examined, directly and based on the moderating and mediating effects of advertising credibility. Hence, the contributions to the literature are threefold: first, the study examines the reverse effect of celebrity endorsement, whereby the credibility of a brand or corporation is transferred to a celebrity endorser; second, the study examines the mediating and moderating effects of advertising credibility on this reverse effect and finally, associative network theory is used to examine the importance of the model.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 (MACC Act) has introduced Section 17 A, which holds companies and their management accountable for bribery committed by their Associated Persons in the interest of the company. This study aims to explore the evolving concept of Associated Persons and corporate liability within this legal framework. It delves into three primary legal models of Associated Persons, particularly focusing on corrupt cases falling under Sections 17 A (1), 17 A (6) and 17 A (7) of the MACC Act. The study also investigates the extent of Associated Persons’ involvement in these cases that eventually led to company liability.

The study deployed thematic and comparative analyses to assess the legal framework and highlight the significance of Section 17 A of the MACC Act.

The study disclosed that, despite having corruption policies, there is still a possibility for Associated Persons to engage in corrupt activities. To ensure long-term business sustainability, it is crucial to implement effective mechanisms and a strong compliance culture.

This study suggests implementing a due diligence checklist and conducting risk assessments for companies as measures against corruption caused by Associated Persons. Corporate entities and legal professionals may benefit from the reported findings to better comprehend the corruption offences outlined in Section 17 A of the MACC Act.