Search results

1 – 10 of 60
Article
Publication date: 14 December 2023

Hessa Al Nuaimi, Syed Zamberi Ahmad and Khalizani Khalid

This study examines the critical elements that contribute to the effective adoption of educational digital resources (EDRs) in schools, with a focus on school principals and their…

Abstract

Purpose

This study examines the critical elements that contribute to the effective adoption of educational digital resources (EDRs) in schools, with a focus on school principals and their leadership, from a strategic pedagogical standpoint.

Design/methodology/approach

Using survey data from 200 school principals, measurement and structure models are tested through structural equation modeling to quantify the impact between constructs.

Findings

The findings indicate that the most important factor influencing how effectively schools are transforming digitally is how beneficial school principals believe EDRs to be. Other important elements include the environment of the school, the technical assistance and service provided for the EDRs, and the professional and personal background of the principal.

Practical implications

Principals should be a fundamental component of educational plans for digital transformation, considering things like their age, leadership and teaching experience. Other components include contextual elements like school size, complexity and digital culture. A school principal's ability to promote an open dialogue – that enables educational communities to view the integration of EDRs into pedagogical models as an opportunity to improve outcomes – can assist a digital culture transition, rather than via the principal's authority or bureaucratic influence.

Originality/value

This research is among the pioneer to study the role of school principals in the UAE towards understanding the direction for digital transformation.

Details

International Journal of Comparative Education and Development, vol. 26 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2396-7404

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 April 2023

Antonio Cimino, Francesco Longo, Vittorio Solina and Saverino Verteramo

This paper proposes an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) platform to increase the sustainability and resilience of smallholders to face supply chain disruptions in…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper proposes an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) platform to increase the sustainability and resilience of smallholders to face supply chain disruptions in the event of COVID-like crises. The platform facilitates interactions between smallholders and buyers, workers and freight transport companies in agri-food ecosystems. Furthermore, this research work presents the implementation of the freight transport companies’ platform module.

Design/methodology/approach

The research work begins with a literature review aiming at analyzing current available ICT solutions supporting smallholders and other actors in the agri-food supply chain. This analysis identifies the research gaps which have to be filled by the platform. Then, the authors proceed with the analysis of the operational scenarios of each platform actor by interacting with experts and operators working in the agri-food sector. The results of such analysis resulted in a comprehensive, unambiguous and consistent set of specification being used to define the platform structure and modules architecture. The platform modules have been developed by using the web-application framework Laravel.

Findings

Preliminary tests show that the proposed platform is usable and promises to improve the resilience and economic, social and environmental sustainability of agri-food supply chains, with a focus on smallholders.

Originality/value

The research work allows players in the agri-food supply chain and in particular small local producers to react and mitigate the impact of COVID-like crises through development of a platform in which smallholders, citizens (buyers and workers) and freight transport companies are simultaneously present.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 126 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 February 2024

Nancy Sobh, Nagla Elshemy, Sahar Nassar and Mona Ali

Due to herbs and plants’ therapeutic properties and simplicity of availability in nature, humans have used them to treat a variety of maladies and diseases since ancient times…

Abstract

Purpose

Due to herbs and plants’ therapeutic properties and simplicity of availability in nature, humans have used them to treat a variety of maladies and diseases since ancient times. Later, as technology advanced, these plants and herbs gained significant relevance in some industries due to their suitable chemical composition, abundant availability and ease of access. Aegle marmelos is a species of plant that may be found in nature. Yet, little or very little literature was located on the coloration behavior of this plant’s leaves. This study aims to focus on the effect of different parameters on the extraction of colorant from Aegle marmelos leaves.

Design/methodology/approach

Some factors that affected on the extraction processes were examined and found to have significant impacts on the textile dyeing such as the initial dye concentration, extracted temperature, extracted bath pH and extracted time were all changed to see how they affected color extraction. The authors report a direct comparison between three heating methods, namely, microwave irradiation (MWI), ultrasonic waves (USW) and conventional heating (CH). The two kinetic models have been designed (pseudo-first and pseudo-second orders) in the context of these experiments to investigate the mechanism of the dyeing processes for fabrics under study. Also, the experimental data were analyzed according to the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms.

Findings

From the result, it was discovered these characteristics were found to have a substantial effect on extraction efficiency. Temperature 90°C and 80°C when using CH and USW, respectively, while at 90% watt when using MWI, period 120 min when using CH as well as USW waves, while 40 min when using MWI, and pH 4, 5 and 10 for polyamide, wool and cotton, respectively, were the optimal extraction conditions. Also, the authors can say that wool gives a higher absorption than the other fabric. Additionally, MWI provided the best color strength (K/S) value, and homogeneity, at low temperatures reducing the energy and time consumed. The coloring follows the order: MWI > USW > CH. The adsorption isotherm of wool could be well fitted by Freundlich isotherm when applying CH and USW as a heating source, while it is well fitted by the Langmuir equation in the case of MWI. In the study, it was observed that the pseudo-first-order kinetic model fits better the experimental results of CH with a constant rate K1 = −0.000171417 mg/g.min, while the pseudo-second-order kinetic model fits better the experimental results of absorption of both MWI (K2 = 38.14022572 mg/g.min) and USW (K2 = 12.45343554 mg/g.min).

Research limitations/implications

There is no research limitation for this work. Dye was extracted from Aegle marmelos leaves by applying three different heating sources (MWI, ultrasonic waves [USWW] and CH).

Practical implications

This work has practical applications for the textile industry. It is concluded that using Aegle marmelose leaves can be a possible alternative to extract dye from natural resource by applying new technology to save energy and time and can make the process greener.

Social implications

Socially, it has a good impact on the ecosystem and global community because the extracted dye does not contain any carcinogenic materials.

Originality/value

The work is original and contains value-added products for the textile industry and other confederate fields.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 February 2024

Manager Rajdeo Singh, Aditya Prakash Kanth, Madhuri Sawant and Rajesh Ragde

The present work highlights the outstanding properties of Cannabis sativa that can be harnessed for various utilitarian functions and its climate friendly properties.

Abstract

Purpose

The present work highlights the outstanding properties of Cannabis sativa that can be harnessed for various utilitarian functions and its climate friendly properties.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors reviewed current research on all possible utilities from household work to manufacturing of various products that are environmentally sustainable. The authors have presented some of their research on this materials and also exploration of hemp as an archaeological material based on the findings from wall paintings of Ellora caves.

Findings

There are references of hemp use in mixing with earthen/lime plaster of western Indian monuments. Around 1,500 years of Ellora’s earthen plaster, despite harsh climatic conditions, survived due to the presence of hemp in the plaster that adds durability, fibrosity and its capacity to ward off insects and control humidity. Furthermore, the outstanding quality of Cannabis as carbon sequestrant was harnessed by Indians of ancient times in Ellora mural paintings.

Research limitations/implications

This work discusses some relevant literature on the potential use of hempcrete aligned with Agenda 2030 of sustainable development goals.

Practical implications

There are several research going on in producing sustainable materials using hemp that have the least environmental impact and can provide eco-friendly solutions.

Social implications

The authors impress upon the readers about multifarious utility of the hemp and advices for exploration of this material to address many environmental issues.

Originality/value

This paper presents both review of the existing papers and some components coming directly from their laboratory investigations.

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: 13 February 2024

Nagla Elshemy, Mona Ali and Reem Nofal

The purpose of this study is to successfully apply ultrasonic waves for the quick extraction of flax seed gum from flaxseed hull or whole seed and compare it to the standard…

29

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to successfully apply ultrasonic waves for the quick extraction of flax seed gum from flaxseed hull or whole seed and compare it to the standard technique of extraction.

Design/methodology/approach

The effect of the heating source, extracted time, temperature and pH of extracted solution on the extraction was studied. The obtained gum is subsequently used for silk screen printing on cotton, linen and viscous fabrics. Rheological properties and viscosity of the printing paste were scrutinized in the current study to get a better insight into this important polysaccharide. The output of this effort aimed to specify the parameters of the processes for printing textiles to serve in women’s fashion clothes by applying innovated handmade combinations of Islamic art motives using a quick and affordable method. Seven designs are executed, and inspiring from them, seven fashion designs of ladies’ clothes were designed virtually by Clo 3D software.

Findings

The result recorded that the new gum has excellent printing properties. In addition, they have better rheological properties, viscosity, chromatic strength and fastness qualities, all of which could help them in commercial production.

Research limitations/implications

Flaxseed and three different fabric types (Cotton, Linen and Viscous) were used.

Practical implications

Synthesis of a new biodegradable thickener from a natural resource, namely, flaxseed, by applying new technology to save time, water and energy.

Originality/value

Synthesis of eco-friendly biodegradable thickener and used in textile printing alternative to the synthetic thickener.

Details

Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1560-6074

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 3 April 2024

Hamed Ahmadinia, Jannica Heinström, Kristina Eriksson-Backa and Shahrokh Nikou

This research paper aims to delve into the perceptions of health susceptibility among Iranian, Afghan and Tajik individuals hailing from asylum-seeking or refused asylum-seeking…

Abstract

Purpose

This research paper aims to delve into the perceptions of health susceptibility among Iranian, Afghan and Tajik individuals hailing from asylum-seeking or refused asylum-seeking backgrounds currently residing in Finland, Norway and Sweden.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted between May and October 2022 involving a sample size of 27 participants. An adapted framework based on the health belief model along with previous studies served as a guide for formulating interview questions.

Findings

Notably influenced by cultural background, religious beliefs, psychological states and past traumatic experiences during migration journeys – before arrival in these countries till settling down – subjects’ perception of health concerns emerged significantly shaped. Additionally impacting perspectives were social standing, occupational status, personal/family medical history, lifestyle choices and dietary preferences nurtured over time, leading to varying degrees of influence upon individuals’ interpretation about their own wellness or illness.

Practical implications

Insights garnered throughout the authors’ analysis hold paramount significance when it comes to developing targeted strategies catering culturally sensitive health-care provisions, alongside framing policies better aligned with primary care services tailored explicitly around singular demands posed by these specific communities dwelling within respective territories.

Originality/value

This investigation represents one among few pioneering initiatives assessing perceptions regarding both physical and mental well-being within minority groups under examination across Nordic nations, unveiling complexities arising through intersecting factors like individual attributes mingling intricately with socio-cultural environments, thereby forming unique viewpoints towards health-care belief systems prevalent among such population segments.

Details

International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1747-9894

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 November 2023

Flavian Emmanuel Sapnken, Mohammed Hamaidi, Mohammad M. Hamed, Abdelhamid Issa Hassane and Jean Gaston Tamba

For some years now, Cameroon has seen a significant increase in its electricity demand, and this need is bound to grow within the next few years owing to the current economic…

43

Abstract

Purpose

For some years now, Cameroon has seen a significant increase in its electricity demand, and this need is bound to grow within the next few years owing to the current economic growth and the ambitious projects underway. Therefore, one of the state's priorities is the mastery of electricity demand. In order to get there, it would be helpful to have reliable forecasting tools. This study proposes a novel version of the discrete grey multivariate convolution model (ODGMC(1,N)).

Design/methodology/approach

Specifically, a linear corrective term is added to its structure, parameterisation is done in a way that is consistent to the modelling procedure and the cumulated forecasting function of ODGMC(1,N) is obtained through an iterative technique.

Findings

Results show that ODGMC(1,N) is more stable and can extract the relationships between the system's input variables. To demonstrate and validate the superiority of ODGMC(1,N), a practical example drawn from the projection of electricity demand in Cameroon till 2030 is used. The findings reveal that the proposed model has a higher prediction precision, with 1.74% mean absolute percentage error and 132.16 root mean square error.

Originality/value

These interesting results are due to (1) the stability of ODGMC(1,N) resulting from a good adequacy between parameters estimation and their implementation, (2) the addition of a term that takes into account the linear impact of time t on the model's performance and (3) the removal of irrelevant information from input data by wavelet transform filtration. Thus, the suggested ODGMC is a robust predictive and monitoring tool for tracking the evolution of electricity needs.

Details

Grey Systems: Theory and Application, vol. 14 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2043-9377

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 April 2023

Erhan Boğan, Caner Çalışkan, Osman M. Karatepe and Hamed Rezapouraghdam

The purpose of this paper is to explore the selected antecedents (i.e. supervisor support and organizational justice) and outcomes (i.e. voice behavior and career satisfaction) of…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the selected antecedents (i.e. supervisor support and organizational justice) and outcomes (i.e. voice behavior and career satisfaction) of work engagement (WENG).

Design/methodology/approach

To gauge the aforesaid effects via structural equation modeling, the current study used data collected from hospitality and tourism academicians at public universities in Turkey.

Findings

The proposed model is viable. Specifically, WENG mediates the impacts of supervisor support and organizational justice on voice behavior and career satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

Using longitudinal data in future research would make it possible to draw causal inferences. Testing research productivity as a criterion variable in future papers would enable the researchers to ferret about whether WENG would mediate the effects of supervisor support and organizational justice on research productivity.

Originality/value

Evidence about the factors affecting employees' WENG is still meager. Especially, there is a need for research about the factors that may affect academicians' WENG at universities. Research findings present valuable implications for tourism and hospitality educational institutions.

Details

Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Insights, vol. 7 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 December 2023

Brahim Chebbab, Haroun Ragueb, Walid Ifrah and Dounya Behnous

This study addresses the reliability of a composite fiber (carbon fibers/epoxy matrix) at microscopic level, with a specific focus on its behavior under compressive stresses. The…

Abstract

Purpose

This study addresses the reliability of a composite fiber (carbon fibers/epoxy matrix) at microscopic level, with a specific focus on its behavior under compressive stresses. The primary goal is to investigate the factors that influence the reliability of the composite, specifically considering the effects of initial fiber deformation and fiber volume fraction.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis involves a multi-step approach. Initially, micromechanics theory is employed to derive limit state equations that define the stress levels at which the fiber remains within an acceptable range of deformation. To assess the composite's structural reliability, a dedicated code is developed using the Monte Carlo method, incorporating random variables.

Findings

Results highlight the significance of initial fiber deformation and volume fraction on the composite's reliability. They indicate that the level of initial deformation of the fibers plays a crucial role in determining the composite reliability. A fiber with 0.5% initial deformation exhibits the ability to endure up to 28% additional stress compared to a fiber with 1% initial deformation. Conversely, a higher fiber volume fraction contributes positively to the composite's reliability. A composite with 60% fiber content and 0.5% initial deformation can support up to 40% additional stress compared to a composite containing 40% fibers with the same deformation.

Originality/value

The study's originality lies in its comprehensive exploration of the factors affecting the reliability of carbon fiber-epoxy matrix composites under compressive stresses. The integration of micromechanics theory and the Monte Carlo method for structural reliability analysis contributes to a thorough understanding of the composite's behavior. The findings shed light on the critical roles played by initial fiber deformation and fiber volume fraction in determining the overall reliability of the composite. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of careful fiber placement during the manufacturing process and emphasizes the role of volume fraction in ensuring the final product's reliability.

Details

International Journal of Structural Integrity, vol. 15 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-9864

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 October 2023

Osman M. Karatepe, Hamed Rezapouraghdam, Raheleh Hassannia, Taegoo Terry Kim and Constanța Enea

This paper investigates the interrelationships of destination social responsibility (DSR), emotional attachment, self-congruity, experiential satisfaction and environmentally…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper investigates the interrelationships of destination social responsibility (DSR), emotional attachment, self-congruity, experiential satisfaction and environmentally responsible behavior (ERB).

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 294 visitors to the Guangzhou Zoo in China, this study tested the aforementioned relationships via structural equation modeling.

Findings

Emotional attachment mediates the effect of DSR on experiential satisfaction, while emotional attachment and experiential satisfaction mediate the effect of DSR on ERB sequentially. Moreover, self-congruity moderates the relationship between DSR and emotional attachment.

Practical implications

The management of zoos should use DSR communication strategies more proactively to make visitors become well-aware of their economic, philanthropic, environmental and social activities in the host community. This will result in many positive consequences, including visitors’ ERBs.

Originality/value

The study adds to the DSR literature by introducing multiple mediation mechanisms and paths that lead to visitors’ ERBs.

目的

我们的论文调查了目的地社会责任 (DSR) 情感依恋、自我一致性、体验满意度和对环境负责的行为 (ERB) 之间的相互关系。

设计/方法/方法

我们的研究以中国广州动物园的 294 名游客为样本, 通过结构方程模型测试了上述关系。

发现

情感依恋介导 DSR 对体验满意度的影响, 而情感依恋和体验满意度依次介导 DSR 对 ERB 的影响。 此外, 自我一致性调节 DSR 与情感依恋之间的关系。

实际意义

动物园的管理层应该更积极地使用 DSR 沟通策略, 让游客充分了解他们在东道社区的经济、慈善、环境和社会活动。 这将带来许多积极的后果, 包括访客的 ERB。

独创性/价值

该研究通过引入多种调解机制和导致访客 ERB 的路径增加了 DSR 文献。

Propósito

nuestro artículo investiga las interrelaciones de la responsabilidad social del destino (DSR), el apego emocional, la autocongruencia, la satisfacción experiencial y el comportamiento ambientalmente responsable (ERB).

Diseño/metodología/enfoque

utilizando una muestra de 294 visitantes del zoológico de Guangzhou en China, nuestro estudio probó las relaciones antes mencionadas a través del modelo de ecuaciones estructurales.

Hallazgos

el apego emocional media el efecto de DSR en la satisfacción experiencial, mientras que el apego emocional y la satisfacción experiencial median el efecto de DSR en ERB secuencialmente. Además, la autocongruencia modera la relación entre DSR y apego emocional.

Implicaciones prácticas

la administración de los zoológicos debe utilizar estrategias de comunicación de DSR de manera más proactiva para que los visitantes estén bien informados sobre sus actividades económicas, filantrópicas, ambientales y sociales en la comunidad anfitriona. Esto tendrá muchas consecuencias positivas, incluidos los ERB de los visitantes.

Originalidad/valor

el estudio se suma a la literatura de DSR al presentar múltiples mecanismos de mediación y caminos que conducen a los ERB de los visitantes.

1 – 10 of 60