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Article
Publication date: 20 September 2024

Serhat Gülmüş, Sema Alaçam and Orkan Zeynel Güzelci

This study aims to conduct environmental comfort analyses of vernacular architecture to establish design principles for a more sustainable design domain. In the scope of this…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to conduct environmental comfort analyses of vernacular architecture to establish design principles for a more sustainable design domain. In the scope of this research, 47 individual Harran earthen houses, comprising 32 different types and six typologies are examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Environmental comfort is selected as an umbrella term for the analysis of thermal comfort, visual comfort, and natural ventilation performance criteria. The performance simulations are conducted utilizing ClimateStudio and SolidWorks software. These simulations yield values for thermal comfort, glare, daylight, solar radiation, airflow, and pressure, which are used to compare different Harran earthen house typologies.

Findings

The study’s results indicate that various environmental comfort standards are met by Harran earthen houses through passive systems, without the need for technology or mechanical equipment. In terms of thermal comfort, visual comfort, and natural ventilation performance criteria, a typology that has advantages in one criterion may have disadvantages in the others. Factors such as orientation, material selection, opening arrangement, and architectural form are found to have an impact on environmental comfort.

Originality/value

This study differs from previous Harran earthen house and environmental comfort studies by focusing on multiple performance criteria and conducting a typology-based comparison based on performance analysis. The results of the study are expected to provide valuable insights into the environmental comfort studies of Harran earthen houses, emphasizing their relevance and applicability in contemporary architectural and urban design.

Details

Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-1266

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 July 2024

Hyo Jung (Julie) Chang, Mohammad Abu Nasir Rakib, Md Kamrul Hasan Foysal and Jo Woon Chong

The comfort of apparel is not only a feeling of perception but also a tangible measure. The fit and fabric of clothing can exert a perception of comfort for the wearer, whereas…

Abstract

Purpose

The comfort of apparel is not only a feeling of perception but also a tangible measure. The fit and fabric of clothing can exert a perception of comfort for the wearer, whereas actual comfort largely depends on physiological and emotional soothing. However, there is still no solid work on connecting the bridge between physiological and emotional feelings to the comfort of clothing. In this study, we have conceptualized, formulated and proven the relation between physiological and emotional parameters with clothing fit and fabric to find the true comfort of the wearer.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method research design using physiological and emotional parameters for different fabric and fit combinations were used for this study. The physiological comfort parameters (i.e. heart rate and respiration rate) are extracted from the subjects using gold-standard clinical devices for various fit and fabric combinations. For the emotional response, a survey was conducted for the same subjects wearing all the fit and fabric combinations. Statistical analysis and modeling were performed to obtain the results.

Findings

Physiological indicators such as heart rate are closely linked with user comfort. Due to the limitations in environmental control, the physiological changes obtained did not significantly vary for different fabric and fit combinations of the clothing. However, a significant change in emotional response indicated a definite relationship between different fabric and fit types. Based on the participants’ responses, weather conditions, size of the clothing item, types of fabrics and style also influence the participants’ choice of clothing.

Originality/value

The research was conducted to discover the relation between true comfort (physiological and emotional parameters) and clothing (fit and fabric), which is unique to the field. This study closes the gap and builds up the relationship, which can help introduce clothing comfort to users in the future. The findings of this study help us understand how fabric types (natural or synthetic) and clothing fit types (loose or fitted) can affect physiological and emotional responses, which can provide the consumer with satisfactory clothing with the suitable properties needed.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 36 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 August 2024

Seyed Morteza Hosseini, Shahin Heidari, Shady Attia, Julian Wang and Georgios Triantafyllidis

This study aims to develop a methodology that extracts an architectural concept from a biological analogy that integrates forms and kinetic behavior to identify whether complex…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to develop a methodology that extracts an architectural concept from a biological analogy that integrates forms and kinetic behavior to identify whether complex forms work better or simple forms with proper kinetic behavior for improving visual comfort and daylight performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employs a transdisciplinary approach using several methods consisting of a biomimetic functional-morphological approach, kinetic design strategy, case study comparison using algorithmic workflow and parametric simulation and inverse design, to develop an interactive kinetic façade with optimized daylight performance.

Findings

A key development is the introduction of a periodic interactive region (PIR), which draws inspiration from the butterfly wings' nanostructure. These findings challenge conventional perspectives on façade complexity, highlighting the efficacy of simpler shapes paired with appropriate kinetic behavior for improving visual comfort. The results show the façade with a simpler “Bookshelf” shape integrated with a tapered shape of the periodic interactive region, outperforms its more complex counterpart (Hyperbolic Paraboloid component) in terms of daylight performance and glare control, especially in southern orientations, ensuring occupant visual comfort by keeping cases in the imperceptible range while also delivering sufficient average spatial Daylight Autonomy of 89.07%, Useful Daylight Illuminance of 94.53% and Exceeded Useful Daylight Illuminance of 5.11%.

Originality/value

The investigation of kinetic façade studies reveals that precedent literature mostly focused on engineering and building physics aspects, leaving the architectural aspect underutilized during the development phase. Recent studies applied a biomimetic approach for involving the architectural elements besides the other aspects. While the biomimetic method has proven effective in meeting occupants' visual comfort needs, its emphasis has been primarily on the complex form which is difficult to apply within the kinetic façade development. This study can address two gaps: (1) the lack of an architectural aspect in the kinetic façade design specifically in the development of conceptual form and kinetic behavior dimensions and (2) exchanging the superficial biomimetic considerations with an in-depth investigation.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 June 2024

Meghana Kammeta and N.K. Palaniswamy

In everyday life, people generally wear two layers of clothes (a knitted vest and a knitted t-shirt) during the summer. It is essential to understand which types of innerwear and…

Abstract

Purpose

In everyday life, people generally wear two layers of clothes (a knitted vest and a knitted t-shirt) during the summer. It is essential to understand which types of innerwear and outerwear maximize comfort. The primary objective of this research is to investigate the influence of layering outerwear on innerwear, as well as the air gap between two layers, on thermal comfort properties.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a total of 12 combinations were created from four vest fabrics and three T-shirt fabrics. The thermal properties (thermal conductivity, thermal resistance, thermal absorptivity, thermal diffusion and peak heat flow) were evaluated for the individual inner and outer layers. Each inner layer was layered with an outer layer to observe the effect of layering on the thermal properties. An air gap of 2 mm was introduced between the inner and outer layers to study the effect of air gap on thermal properties.

Findings

Tencel fibre exhibits higher thermal conductivity and absorptivity than cotton and polyester. Upon layering an outer layer on an inner layer, the thermal conductivity and thermal absorptivity increase to a slight extent, thermal resistance and diffusion increase drastically and the peak heat flow reduces. With an air gap between the two layers, the thermal conductivity did not improve, the difference in thermal resistance among all the combinations reduced, the thermal absorptivity of the combination textiles was lower than that of the innerwear alone, the thermal diffusion increased and the peak heat flow diminished for all the combinations.

Practical implications

In practice, this comprehensive thermal comfort analysis provides specific combinations of inner and outer articles of clothing that are most appropriate for enhancing comfort during the summer season.

Originality/value

Though there are many studies on the effect of multilayer fabrics on thermal properties, no extensive research analyses the influence of innerwear and outerwear combinations on thermal comfort properties.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 36 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 29 December 2022

Eziaku Onyeizu Rasheed and James Olabode Bamidele Rotimi

Achieving an appropriate indoor environment quality (IEQ) is crucial to a green office environment. Whilst much research has been carried out across the globe on the ideal IEQ for…

1052

Abstract

Purpose

Achieving an appropriate indoor environment quality (IEQ) is crucial to a green office environment. Whilst much research has been carried out across the globe on the ideal IEQ for green offices, little is known about which indoor environment New Zealand office workers prefer and regard as most appropriate. This study investigated New Zealand office workers' preference for a green environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Workers were conveniently selected for a questionnaire survey study from two major cities in the country – Wellington and Auckland. The perception of 149 workers was analysed and discussed based on the workers' demographics. The responses to each question were analysed based on the mean, standard deviation, frequency of responses and difference in opinion.

Findings

The results showed that workers' preferences for an ideal IEQ in green work environments depend largely on demographics. New Zealand office workers prefer work environments to have more fresh air and rely on mixed-mode ventilation and lighting systems. Also New Zealand office workers like to have better acoustic quality with less distraction and background noise. Regarding temperature, workers prefer workspaces to be neither cooler nor warmer. Unique to New Zealand workers, the workers prefer to have some (not complete) individual control over the IEQ in offices.

Research limitations/implications

This study was conducted in the summer season, which could have impacted the responses received. Also the sample size was limited to two major cities in the country. Further studies should be conducted in other regions and during different seasons.

Practical implications

This study provides the opportunity for more studies in this area of research and highlights significant findings worthy of critical investigations. The results of this study benefit various stakeholders, such as facilities managers and workplace designers, and support proactive response approaches to achieving building occupants' preferences for an ideal work environment.

Originality/value

This study is the first research in New Zealand to explore worker preferences of IEQ that is not limited to a particular building, expanding the body of knowledge on workers' perception of the ideal work environment in the country.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. 13 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 September 2024

Pankaj Misra

This study aims to examine consumer purchase behavior towards E-pharmacy from a consumption value perspective. For this purpose, the influence of consumption values on consumer…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine consumer purchase behavior towards E-pharmacy from a consumption value perspective. For this purpose, the influence of consumption values on consumer purchase intention is evaluated. Further, the role of consumer involvement in online purchase setup in the context of E-pharmacy is observed using moderation analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a cross-sectional survey design, wherein the respondents in the Delhi-National Capital Region of India were approached using a purposive sampling method. Responses received through the structured questionnaire were subjected to analysis using Smart PLS Version 4.0.9.6.

Findings

Results indicate a significant influence of functional (partial), emotional, social and conditional values on consumers’ purchase intention. Moreover, the moderation effect of consumer online involvement is seen in functional value (partial) and emotional value–purchase intention relationships.

Research limitations/implications

This study reinforces the use of the consumption value perspective to explain consumer purchase behavior toward information system (IS)-based platforms such as E-pharmacy. Some of the results, in this context, that did not establish significant relationships between a given form of consumption values and purchase intention, open up the possibilities of retesting the said relationships in the future. The researchers would realize the benefit of such examinations, as the E-pharmacy sector further evolves and matures in the future. Further, the successful establishment of a significant moderating role of consumer online involvement in certain consumption value-purchase intention relationships such as safety, perceived convenience and comfort value paves the way for future researchers to explore consumer online involvement for a similar role in IS research.

Practical implications

This study provides cues for E-pharmacy marketers to focus on enhancing product safety, usage comfort, users’ social image and awareness toward health consciousness that will help build purchase intention and assist in overcoming the challenges in the long run. It further suggests that marketers should have a strong re-look at forming price value perceptions and they must enhance the interactive features of the company’s mobile apps/websites with the help of the emerging artificial intelligence tools to re-orient the epistemic value and perceived convenience value toward E-pharmacy services. Furthermore, this study recommends following digital marketing practices to increase consumer online involvement, which would help strengthen perceived convenience formation that would otherwise be difficult to attain for E-pharmacy consumers.

Originality/value

This study provides novel insight into consumer purchase intention evaluation through the consumption value perspective in an emerging E-pharmacy market. The consumption value frame of reference helps to understand consumers’ buying rationale that affects their buying behavior beyond the initial adoption. Further, the moderation analysis of consumer online involvement provides an additional dimension to understanding consumer buying behavior concerning E-pharmacy.

Details

International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Marketing, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6123

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 June 2023

Tamires Cássia de Melo Souza, Lucilene Rezende Anastácio., Lívya Alves Oliveira, Marina Martins Daniel, Fernanda Rodrigues de Oliveira Penaforte, Juliana Costa Liboredo, Ceres Mattos Della Lucia and Lívia Garcia Ferreira

This study aims to identify comfort food (CF) consumption and its associated factors during the pandemic period. The study also involves an online survey conducted five months…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to identify comfort food (CF) consumption and its associated factors during the pandemic period. The study also involves an online survey conducted five months after the quarantine started in Brazil.

Design/methodology/approach

Data on lifestyle, eating habits and anthropometric data were collected before and during the pandemic, and the differences in these habits were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were performed to identify predictors of CF consumption by gender.

Findings

A total of 1,363 individuals were included in the sample, with a median age of 31 years old, of whom 80.3% were women. Since individuals were free to respond about the food consumed without predetermined categories, it was possible to carry out a faithful assessment of the occurrence of this behavior. At the same time, allowing the subjectivity and symbolism inherent to the concept of CF to be embraced. CF consumption was present for 54%, with “sweets” being the most mentioned group by both genders. The factors associated with CF consumption in women during the pandemic were increased snacking, increased bread, candies and alcoholic beverage intake, increased time spent at work, worsened sleep quality, reduced meals, perceived stress (PS), emotional eating (EE), age and increased frequency of meat intake. In men, the predictors for CF consumption were remote full-time work/study, PS, EE and early waking time. For both genders, CF consumption during the pandemic period was associated with PS and EE.

Originality/value

This study provides an important overview of the possible contributions of the pandemic on behaviors and food choices related to the consumption of CF in Brazilians. This information is valuable to support further studies to investigate and treat the impacts of the pandemic on lifestyle, eating habits and behavior, mental health and other factors in the postpandemic period.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. 54 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 5 July 2024

Dwayne Wood and Scott H. Moss

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) on students' learning experiences and perceptions through a master’s-level…

3376

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) on students' learning experiences and perceptions through a master’s-level course. The study specifically focused on student engagement, comfort with GenAI and ethical considerations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used an action research methodology employing qualitative data collection methods, including pre- and post-course surveys, reflective assignments, class discussions and a questionnaire. The AI-Ideas, Connections, Extensions (ICE) Framework, combining the ICE Model and AI paradigms, is used to assess students' cognitive engagement with GenAI.

Findings

The study revealed that incorporating GenAI in a master’s-level instructional design course increased students' comfort with GenAI and their understanding of its ethical implications. The AI-ICE Framework demonstrated most students were at the initial engagement level, with growing awareness of GenAI’s limitations and ethical issues. Course reflections highlighted themes of improved teaching strategies, personal growth and the practical challenges of integrating GenAI responsibly.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size poses challenges to the analytical power of the findings, potentially limiting the breadth and applicability of conclusions. This constraint may affect the generalizability of the results, as the participants may not fully represent the broader population of interest. The researchers are mindful of these limitations and suggest caution in interpreting the findings, acknowledging that they may offer more exploratory insights than definitive conclusions. Future research endeavors should aim to recruit a larger cohort to validate and expand upon the initial observations, ensuring a more robust understanding.

Originality/value

The study is original in its integration of GenAI into a master's-level instructional design course, assessing both the practical and ethical implications of its use in education. By utilizing the AI-ICE Framework to evaluate students' cognitive engagement and employing action research methodology, the study provides insights into how GenAI influences learning experiences and perceptions. This approach bridges the gap between theoretical understanding and the real-world application of GenAI, offering actionable strategies for its responsible use in educational settings.

Details

Journal of Research in Innovative Teaching & Learning, vol. 17 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2397-7604

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 September 2024

Madhavi P. Patil, Ashraf M. Salama, Jane Arnfield and Seraphim Alvanides

This article introduces the “YouWalk-YouReclaim” mobile application as a transformative tool aimed at co-assessing and enhancing campus environments in a post-pandemic context. It…

Abstract

Purpose

This article introduces the “YouWalk-YouReclaim” mobile application as a transformative tool aimed at co-assessing and enhancing campus environments in a post-pandemic context. It seeks to address the need for inclusive, dynamic and technology-driven spaces within university settings.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a comprehensive assessment framework through a case study at Northumbria University, Newcastle. It involves over 100 students from diverse fields who utilised the application to evaluate significant areas on campus, such as Student Central, Northumberland Road and the Northumbria Library. The methodology places emphasis on direct user engagement and the use of the application’s inbuilt-image library and visual documentation features.

Findings

The application effectively evaluated the functionality, spatial dynamics and user experiences across various campus spaces. Key findings include the importance of adaptability, personalised spaces and enhanced wayfinding to meet the evolving needs of the university community. The study also noted the potential of the app to facilitate multidimensional assessments and support user-centric improvements.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that institutions can leverage technology like the “YouWalk-YouReclaim” app to better understand and optimise their campus spaces, fostering more responsive, user-focused and sustainable environments. The study advocates continuous technological enhancements and user-centred assessments to cultivate efficient and enriching campus experiences.

Originality/value

This study is novel in its integration of digital technology with user-centred approaches to assess and enhance campus environments. By enabling real-time feedback and inclusive participation, “YouWalk-YouReclaim” exemplifies an innovative approach to campus space management.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 September 2024

Jose M. Ramos-Henriquez and Sandra Morini-Marrero

This study aims to characterize remote workers’ Airbnb experiences through the cognitive outcomes of their experiences and to consider the differences between long and short stays.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to characterize remote workers’ Airbnb experiences through the cognitive outcomes of their experiences and to consider the differences between long and short stays.

Design/methodology/approach

The structural topic model methodology was used to identify relevant topics. Data were collected from InsideAirbnb for Lisbon, Portugal and Austin, Texas, USA, for 2022 and early 2023, focusing on reviews that mentioned remote work.

Findings

The Airbnb experiences of remote workers and digital nomads are characterized as professionals who express mostly affective outcomes, but also have behavioral and nonaffective outcomes during their stay. In addition, the findings support the moderating role of length of stay and city.

Research limitations/implications

This paper contributes to the literature by exploring how length of stay affects the priorities of remote workers on Airbnb, highlighting the different needs of long-term and short-term stays, and helping to consolidate and clarify the scattered research on customers’ long-term experiences in tourism and hospitality.

Practical implications

The Airbnb experience of remote workers is the highly valued as evidenced by the high rate of commending reviews indicating a willingness to stay there again. It is suggested that Airbnb hosts continue their helpful role and ensuring the functionality and availability of essential facilities and emphasizing neighborhood amenities specific to long and short stays. ChatGPT4 was found to be valuable for extracting data and assigning topic labels.

Originality/value

This study uses a novel structural topic model, augmented with ChatGPT4, to analyze Airbnb customer reviews that mention remote work, thereby improving inferences about the characterization of remote workers.

Details

International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-6119

Keywords

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