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1 – 10 of 34Faris Elghaish, Sandra Matarneh, Essam Abdellatef, Farzad Rahimian, M. Reza Hosseini and Ahmed Farouk Kineber
Cracks are prevalent signs of pavement distress found on highways globally. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning (DL) for crack detection is increasingly…
Abstract
Purpose
Cracks are prevalent signs of pavement distress found on highways globally. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning (DL) for crack detection is increasingly considered as an optimal solution. Consequently, this paper introduces a novel, fully connected, optimised convolutional neural network (CNN) model using feature selection algorithms for the purpose of detecting cracks in highway pavements.
Design/methodology/approach
To enhance the accuracy of the CNN model for crack detection, the authors employed a fully connected deep learning layers CNN model along with several optimisation techniques. Specifically, three optimisation algorithms, namely adaptive moment estimation (ADAM), stochastic gradient descent with momentum (SGDM), and RMSProp, were utilised to fine-tune the CNN model and enhance its overall performance. Subsequently, the authors implemented eight feature selection algorithms to further improve the accuracy of the optimised CNN model. These feature selection techniques were thoughtfully selected and systematically applied to identify the most relevant features contributing to crack detection in the given dataset. Finally, the authors subjected the proposed model to testing against seven pre-trained models.
Findings
The study's results show that the accuracy of the three optimisers (ADAM, SGDM, and RMSProp) with the five deep learning layers model is 97.4%, 98.2%, and 96.09%, respectively. Following this, eight feature selection algorithms were applied to the five deep learning layers to enhance accuracy, with particle swarm optimisation (PSO) achieving the highest F-score at 98.72. The model was then compared with other pre-trained models and exhibited the highest performance.
Practical implications
With an achieved precision of 98.19% and F-score of 98.72% using PSO, the developed model is highly accurate and effective in detecting and evaluating the condition of cracks in pavements. As a result, the model has the potential to significantly reduce the effort required for crack detection and evaluation.
Originality/value
The proposed method for enhancing CNN model accuracy in crack detection stands out for its unique combination of optimisation algorithms (ADAM, SGDM, and RMSProp) with systematic application of multiple feature selection techniques to identify relevant crack detection features and comparing results with existing pre-trained models.
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Ritab AlKhouri, Pashaar Halteh, Khaled Halteh and Milind Tiwari
This paper aims to outline how certain lessons from ethical systems can be relevant and applicable to tackling unethical behavior, including financial crime, within the finance…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to outline how certain lessons from ethical systems can be relevant and applicable to tackling unethical behavior, including financial crime, within the finance profession.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper adopts a pragmatic perspective while acknowledging that there is a myriad of reasons managers act unethically, including the reality that many do so knowingly and deliberately. The matter is further complicated by human nature, given an individual’s behavior (ethical or unethical) is not easily discernable from their psychological, sociological, theological or cultural attributes.
Findings
Although such systems may not solve the problem of corrupt behavior, research suggests that industry professionals can learn to act in a more responsible and ethical manner. Given the wounded reputation of the financial sector, owing to their role in committing financial crimes such as money laundering, advances in ethical conduct would elevate both the effectiveness of the sector, as well as its reputation.
Originality/value
It is impractical to think we can completely resolve the problem of unethical behavior. Improvement, however, seems possible through promoting virtuous character traits and ethical behavior in individuals and organizations. Virtue ethics can play a significant role in combating financial crime and supporting anti-money laundering initiatives.
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Fazila Jalil, Jianhua Yang, Manaf Al-Okaily and Shafique Ur Rehman
This study embarks on a comprehensive investigation into the intricate relationship between consumer trust in e-commerce platforms and the adoption of Green Supply Chain…
Abstract
Purpose
This study embarks on a comprehensive investigation into the intricate relationship between consumer trust in e-commerce platforms and the adoption of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM). It delves into a multifaceted analysis of how these dynamics influence the landscape of online shopping, with a specific focus on four critical dimensions: the efficiency of online purchasing processes, the fulfillment of product delivery commitments, the convenience associated with e-platform utilization, and the safeguarding of consumers' personal information.
Design/methodology/approach
This research employs sophisticated Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) techniques, facilitated by SPSS and SmartPLS software, to meticulously analyze the amassed data and subject the formulated hypotheses to rigorous testing. The empirical foundation of this study draws from a sample of 377 randomly selected online shoppers, providing a robust basis for its insights.
Findings
At its core, this research is squarely focused on unraveling the dynamics of consumer trust within e-commerce platforms and highlighting the pivotal role played by GSCM in making online shopping more ecologically responsible and sustainable. Of paramount importance is the novel dimension introduced by this study the integration of trust in e-commerce platforms, GSCM practices, and the multifarious dimensions of online shopping all within a unified conceptual framework. Trust on e-commerce platforms leads to GSCM. GSCM determines online shopping satisfaction, i.e. efficiency, fulfillment, convenience, and privacy. Finally, GSCM mediates between trust on e-commerce platforms and online shopping satisfaction.
Practical implications
This holistic approach represents a ground-breaking contribution to the existing body of literature. It presents a fresh perspective on the intricate interactions that define the contemporary e-commerce landscape.
Originality/value
This initial research integrates trust in e-commerce platforms, GSCM, and online shopping in a single framework through UTAUT2.
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Said Elbanna, Linda Hsieh, John Child, Rose Narooz, Svetla Marinova, Pushyarag Puthusserry, Joanna Karmowska, Terence Tsai and Yunlu Zhang
Drawing on an organizational learning perspective, this paper examines the effect of levels of foreign market involvement (intensity and geographic spread) on internationalization…
Abstract
Purpose
Drawing on an organizational learning perspective, this paper examines the effect of levels of foreign market involvement (intensity and geographic spread) on internationalization outcomes recognizing that the moderating influence of entry-mode learning potential is not well documented in the literature on small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Design/methodology/approach
The sample includes 180 SMEs evenly selected from three industries: biotechnology, software and clothing (60 firms in each industry). The sampled firms employ less than 250 employees and are equally distributed between three developed economies and three emerging economies. All were engaged in foreign business.
Findings
The authors find that there is a direct relationship between levels of foreign market involvement and internationalization outcomes. Entry-mode learning potential moderates the relationship between intensity of foreign market involvement and internationalization outcomes but not the relationship between geographic spread and internationalization outcomes.
Practical implications
This study reveals several new insights that help explain the pathway through which foreign market involvement activities are translated into internationalization outcomes.
Originality/value
The authors conclude that the positive relationship between intensity of foreign market involvement and internationalization outcomes is strengthened when SMEs also use an entry mode with a higher learning potential than exporting only.
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Ibraheem Alshahrani, Odeh Al-Jayyousi, Fairouz Aldhmour and Thamer Alderaan
The study's aims are to identify healthcare innovation variables, explore innovative work behavior’s (IWB's) influence on Saudi health sector companies and evaluate the mediating…
Abstract
Purpose
The study's aims are to identify healthcare innovation variables, explore innovative work behavior’s (IWB's) influence on Saudi health sector companies and evaluate the mediating function of transformational leadership in the link between IWB and healthcare organizations. In this backdrop, the purpose of the current research was to investigate the impact of creative work behavior on organizational performance and the role of transformational leadership in this process.
Design/methodology/approach
The objective of this quantitative cross-sectional study was to examine, according to 587 participants, the perceived elements of creative work behavior (RQ1). In various 10 departments of the 5 Dammam Health Network (DHN) in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, online questionnaires were used to collect data. SmartPLS 3 software was used to analyze the data.
Findings
The findings indicated that healthcare professionals perceive the elements of autonomy, competence, relatedness, motivation and knowledge sharing as key features that influence high efficiency in organizational efficiency (p < 0.001). IWB also had a significant and direct positive influence on organizational performance (p < 0.001). Transformational leadership behavior had an insignificant negative effect on employees’ task performance when considering organizational performance (P = 0.122). Therefore, the mediation role did not affect the relationship with IWB concerning employees’ task performance, suggesting that transformational leadership behaviors did not have a mediating effect on the effectiveness of employees’ task performance.
Originality/value
This article contains original analysis and interpretation highlighting integrating IWB and transformational leadership into Saudi Arabia's national healthcare system that can help address specific difficulties facing healthcare practitioners.
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Purpose. This chapter discusses the challenges and different strategies to increase skill development for the future workforce.Methodology. Multiple sources on the topic were…
Abstract
Purpose. This chapter discusses the challenges and different strategies to increase skill development for the future workforce.
Methodology. Multiple sources on the topic were studied and reviewed in this chapter. The idea of skill and its development is discussed in the literature review.
Findings. Different nations’ governments have promoted human capital development by providing up-skilling and retraining programs to balance supply and demand. Skills gaps need to be brought to the attention of stakeholders, such as governments, businesses, and the educational system. Teachers, employers, and other stakeholders need to develop strategies and action plans to ensure that the skills gaps are appropriately identified and adequately addressed. These initiatives must be developed with input from various stakeholders.
Practical Implications. The research results would inform the curriculum, incorporating skill development processes tailored to various scenarios. These findings would aid business organisations in crafting skill development programs that address identified skill gaps. Challenges in skill development would be taken into account during course development, and relevant teaching–learning materials would be created. Key stakeholders, such as accrediting organisations, employers, and students, should exert more influence on academic institutions to prioritise societal demands for economic development.
Originality/Value. The uniqueness and significance of this chapter lie in its concise summary of the strategies to tackle the hurdles in skill development.
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Ayman Wael Alkhatib and Marco Valeri
This study explores the connection between intellectual capital (IC) components and the competitive advantage (CA) of the hospitality sector in Jordan through the mediating role…
Abstract
Purpose
This study explores the connection between intellectual capital (IC) components and the competitive advantage (CA) of the hospitality sector in Jordan through the mediating role of service innovation as well as the moderating role of big data analytics capabilities.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire from the hospitality sector with a sample of 402 respondents. Data were analysed using SmartPLS, a bootstrapping technique was used to analyse the data. The mediating effect for service innovation and the moderating effect for big data analytics capabilities were performed.
Findings
The results showed that the proposed moderated-mediation model was accepted because the relationships between the constructs were statistically significant. The results of the data analysis supported a positive relationship between human capital, structural capital and relational capital and the CA as well as a mediating effect of service innovation. The findings confirmed that there is a moderating relationship for big data analytics capabilities between service innovation and CA. The results illustrate the importance of IC and service innovation in enhancing CA in the Jordanian hospitality sector in light of the big data analytics capabilities.
Research limitations/implications
This cross-sectional study provides a snapshot at a given moment in time, a methodological limitation that affects the generalisation of the limitation's results, and the results are limited to one sector.
Originality/value
This research developed a theoretical model to incorporate IC components, service innovation, big data analytics capabilities and CA. This paper offers new theoretical and practical contributions that add value to the innovation and CA literature by testing the moderated-mediation model of these constructs in the hospitality sector which has been greatly affected by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study is distinguished from other studies by highlighting the role of IC and service innovation in enhancing CA as service innovation contributes to the formation of many organisational advantages in the Jordanian hospitality sector.
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Pengyue Guo, Tianyun Shi, Zhen Ma and Jing Wang
The paper aims to solve the problem of personnel intrusion identification within the limits of high-speed railways. It adopts the fusion method of millimeter wave radar and camera…
Abstract
Purpose
The paper aims to solve the problem of personnel intrusion identification within the limits of high-speed railways. It adopts the fusion method of millimeter wave radar and camera to improve the accuracy of object recognition in dark and harsh weather conditions.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper adopts the fusion strategy of radar and camera linkage to achieve focus amplification of long-distance targets and solves the problem of low illumination by laser light filling of the focus point. In order to improve the recognition effect, this paper adopts the YOLOv8 algorithm for multi-scale target recognition. In addition, for the image distortion caused by bad weather, this paper proposes a linkage and tracking fusion strategy to output the correct alarm results.
Findings
Simulated intrusion tests show that the proposed method can effectively detect human intrusion within 0–200 m during the day and night in sunny weather and can achieve more than 80% recognition accuracy for extreme severe weather conditions.
Originality/value
(1) The authors propose a personnel intrusion monitoring scheme based on the fusion of millimeter wave radar and camera, achieving all-weather intrusion monitoring; (2) The authors propose a new multi-level fusion algorithm based on linkage and tracking to achieve intrusion target monitoring under adverse weather conditions; (3) The authors have conducted a large number of innovative simulation experiments to verify the effectiveness of the method proposed in this article.
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Randa Salamoun, Charlotte M. Karam and Crystel Abdallah
The authors explore the entanglement of smartphone technology and power in this paper. This paper explores the following question: In what ways does the actualization of…
Abstract
Purpose
The authors explore the entanglement of smartphone technology and power in this paper. This paper explores the following question: In what ways does the actualization of smartphone affordances result in empowering outcomes (i.e. increase or reduce oppression) in the daily lives of refugees? Leveraging both affordance and feminist theories, the authors develop a hybrid lens bringing attention to the contextualized relationship between social process goals and affordances for sociality, upon which the authors introduce the notion of “goal-affordance interrelations”. The authors then trace how the actualization of these interrelations increases or reduces oppression.
Design/methodology/approach
Using an abductive approach, the authors analyze 32 semi-structured interview transcriptions conducted with Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
Findings
The analysis in this study reveals four categories of social process goals (meet financial needs, satisfy security needs, communicate and learn and maintain pre-existing social ties) that are intimate components of contextually meaningful affordances. When actualized, the goal–affordance interrelations fundamentally shape refugee experiences of power outcomes. The findings suggest forms of empowerment where powerlessness, marginalization, violence and exploitation are perceived to be reduced. Actualization outcomes are also found to increase perceived oppression. Additionally, the findings reveal that not all interrelations are actualized, such that the anticipation of an oppressive power outcome may limit the actualization of affordances for sociality.
Originality/value
This research raises considerations concerning technology and oppression, and that efforts to empower refugees through technology should critically question whether the lived experiences of oppression will be reduced. The findings of this study reveal various forms of less empowering (i.e. oppressive) outcomes for the refugees sampled, they also point to the potential politicization of the actualization of goal–affordance interrelations.
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Adam Yahya Jafeel, Ei Yet Chu and Yousif Abdelbagi Abdalla
This study aims to empirically examine the impact of internal corporate governance mechanisms (ICGM) related to the size of the board, board composition, CEO duality and audit…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to empirically examine the impact of internal corporate governance mechanisms (ICGM) related to the size of the board, board composition, CEO duality and audit committee independence as a single metric on a firm’s investment decisions.
Design/methodology/approach
This study attempts to develop an internal corporate governance quality index comprising 10 items under four main ICGMs – size and independence of the board, CEO duality and audit committee independence – employing panel data analysis to investigate its impact on the investment decisions in 301 nonfinancial firms listed in six emerging capital markets in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member countries for the years 2015–2020. Data were extracted from sample companies' websites, stock markets, annual reports and Refinitiv database.
Findings
This study provides convincing evidence that effective ICGMs minimize inefficient investment and ultimately boost investment efficiency. The findings remain consistent even after considering the potential endogeneity bias.
Originality/value
This study provides empirical evidence on investment efficiency in the GCC region and emphasizes the importance of high-quality ICGMs in reducing inefficient investment. By examining the impact of ICGMs on investment inefficiencies, this study contributes to the corporate governance literature. The GCC region's unique economic and social contexts, with its growing economies, are considered to shed light on this issue.
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