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1 – 10 of 16
Article
Publication date: 6 November 2023

Jonathan Núñez Aedo, Marcela A. Cruchaga and Mario A. Storti

This paper aims to report the study of a fluid buoy system that includes wave effects, with particular emphasis on validating the numerical results with experimental data.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to report the study of a fluid buoy system that includes wave effects, with particular emphasis on validating the numerical results with experimental data.

Design/methodology/approach

A fluid–solid coupled algorithm is proposed to describe the motion of a rigid buoy under the effects of waves. The Navier–Stokes equations are solved with the open-source finite volume package Code Saturne, in which a free-surface capture technique and equations of motion for the solid are implemented. An ad hoc experiment on a laboratory scale is built. A buoy is placed into a tank partially filled with water; the tank is mounted into a shake table and subjected to controlled motion that promotes waves. The experiment allows for recording the evolution of the free surface at the control points using the ultrasonic sensors and the movement of the buoy by tracking the markers by postprocessing the recorded videos. The numerical results are validated by comparison with the experimental data.

Findings

The implemented free-surface technique, developed within the framework of the finite-volume method, is validated. The best-obtained agreement is for small amplitudes compatible with the waves evolving under deep-water conditions. Second, the algorithm proposed to describe rigid-body motion, including wave analysis, is validated. The numerical body motion and wave pattern satisfactorily matched the experimental data. The complete 3D proposed model can realistically describe buoy motions under the effects of stationary waves.

Originality/value

The novel aspects of this study encompass the implementation of a fluid–structure interaction strategy to describe rigid-body motion, including wave effects in a finite-volume context, and the reported free-surface and buoy position measurements from experiments. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the numerical strategy, the validation of the computed results and the experimental data are all original contributions of this work.

Details

International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, vol. 34 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0961-5539

Keywords

Content available
Book part
Publication date: 4 March 2024

Abstract

Details

Managing Destinations
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83797-176-3

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 25 April 2023

Manuela Cazzaro and Paola Maddalena Chiodini

Although the Net Promoter Score (NPS) index is simple, NPS has weaknesses that make NPS's interpretation misleading. The main criticism is that identical index values can…

2076

Abstract

Purpose

Although the Net Promoter Score (NPS) index is simple, NPS has weaknesses that make NPS's interpretation misleading. The main criticism is that identical index values can correspond to different levels of customer loyalty. This makes difficult to determine whether the company is improving/deteriorating in two different years. The authors describe the application of statistical tools to establish whether identical values may/may not be considered similar under statistical hypotheses.

Design/methodology/approach

Equal NPSs with a “similar” component composition should have a two-way table satisfying marginal homogeneity hypothesis. The authors compare the marginals using a cumulative marginal logit model that assumes a proportional odds structure: the model has the same effect for each logit. Marginal homogeneity corresponds to null effect. If the marginal homogeneity hypothesis is rejected, the cumulative odds ratio becomes a tool for measuring the proportionality between the odds.

Findings

The authors propose an algorithm that helps managers in their decision-making process. The authors' methodology provides a statistical tool to recognize customer base compositions. The authors suggest a statistical test of the marginal distribution homogeneity of the table representing the index compositions at two times. Through the calculation of cumulative odds ratios, the authors discriminate against the hypothesis of equality of the NPS.

Originality/value

The authors' contribution provides a statistical alternative that can be easily implemented by business operators to fill the known shortcomings of the index in the customer satisfaction's context. This paper confirms that although a single number summarizes and communicates a complex situation very quickly, the number is ambiguous and unreliable if not accompanied by other tools.

Details

The TQM Journal, vol. 35 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2731

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 May 2023

Alexander Joseph Vanhee and Rachel McNealey

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of micro-level place on identity theft victimization. This study uses the 2016 Identity Theft Supplement (ITS) to investigate…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of micro-level place on identity theft victimization. This study uses the 2016 Identity Theft Supplement (ITS) to investigate whether aspects of an individual’s residence affect their likelihood of becoming identity theft victims.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct logistic regressions of whether a respondent was an identity theft victim in the past year using the following variables as key predictors: number of housing units in a residence, whether the respondent operates a business out of their residence and if residence access is restricted.

Findings

The results suggest that location influences the likelihood of identity theft to a modest degree though some aspects of location (possibly those related to rewards perceptions) may be more relevant than others. Meanwhile, though location may influence initial target selection, whether someone is victimized may be more dependent on factors such as personal behavior.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this manuscript represents one of the first investigations into the relationship between microlevel place and the incidence of identity theft. Furthermore, it provides evidence that one does exist which bears further inquiry.

Details

Journal of Financial Crime, vol. 31 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-0790

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 July 2024

Jyotsna Rosario and K.R. Shanmugam

This paper aims to analyze the technical efficiency of Indian State governments in providing elementary education (EE) and to identify the determinants of their technical…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the technical efficiency of Indian State governments in providing elementary education (EE) and to identify the determinants of their technical inefficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

The Generalized Stochastic Frontier Approach (GSFA) is used in the context of the Inefficiency Effects Model to simultaneously estimate the frontier production function and the technical inefficiency model. Panel data of 28 Indian States from 2009–10 to 2018–19 is used.

Findings

The mean efficiency of States stands at 86%. Efficiency varied between 67 and 97%. 96% of the inter-state disparity in EE outcomes can be explained by inefficiency. Arunachal Pradesh is the least efficient State, followed by Sikkim and Tripura. Efficiency estimates were observed to change across States over the study period. Proportion of government schools, rural population, and proportion of Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe children are the major determinants of inefficiency.

Practical implications

This study emphasizes that efficient resource management is as important as adequate resource allocation for achieving positive EE outcomes. It distinguishes resource-poor States from inefficient ones, providing insights to enhance States’ efficiency, and aiding policymakers in formulating strategies for ensuring equitable and quality EE.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to apply GSFA (for Indian States), providing a more robust estimation of efficiency. The Inefficiency Effects Model is employed that address the limitations inherent in the two-stage approach.

Details

Journal of Economic Studies, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-3585

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 8 June 2023

Amer Jazairy, Timo Pohjosenperä, Jaakko Sassali, Jari Juga and Robin von Haartman

This research examines what motivates professional truck drivers to engage in eco-driving by linking their self-reports with objective driving scores.

2585

Abstract

Purpose

This research examines what motivates professional truck drivers to engage in eco-driving by linking their self-reports with objective driving scores.

Design/methodology/approach

Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) is illustrated in an embedded, single-case study of a Finnish carrier with 17 of its truck drivers. Data are obtained through in-depth interviews with drivers, their fuel-efficiency scores generated by fleet telematics and a focus group session with the management.

Findings

Discrepancies between drivers’ intentions and eco-driving behaviors are illustrated in a two-by-two matrix that classifies drivers into four categories: ideal eco-drivers, wildcards, wannabes and non-eco-drivers. Attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control are examined for drivers within each category, revealing that drivers’ perceptions did not always align with the reality of their driving.

Research limitations/implications

This study strengthens the utility of TPB through data triangulation while also revealing the theory’s inherent limitations in elucidating the underlying causes of its three antecedents and their impact on the variance in driving behaviors.

Practical implications

Managerial insights are offered to fleet managers and eco-driving solution providers to stipulate the right conditions for drivers to enhance fuel-efficiency outcomes of transport fleets.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to give a voice to professional truck drivers about their daily eco-driving practice.

Details

International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, vol. 53 no. 11
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0960-0035

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 August 2023

Abhishek Kansal, Akshay Dvivedi and Pradeep Kumar

The purpose of this study to investigate the organized porous network zinc (OPNZ) scaffolds. Their mechanical characteristics, surface roughness and fracture mechanism were…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study to investigate the organized porous network zinc (OPNZ) scaffolds. Their mechanical characteristics, surface roughness and fracture mechanism were assessed in relation to their structural properties. The prospects of fused deposition modeling (FDM) for printing metal scaffolds via rapid tooling have also been studied.

Design/methodology/approach

Zn scaffolds with different pore and strut sizes were manufactured via the rapid tooling method. This method is a multistep process that begins with the 3D printing of a polymer template. Later, a paraffin template was obtained from the prepared polymer template. Finally, this paraffin template was used to fabricate the Zn scaffold using microwave sintering. The characterization of prepared Zn samples involved structural characterization, microstructural study, surface roughness testing and compression testing. Moreover, based on the Gibson–Ashby model analysis, the model equations’ constant values were evaluated, which can help in predicting the mechanical properties of Zn scaffolds.

Findings

The scanning electron microscopy study confirmed that the fabricated sample pores were open and interconnected. The X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the Zn scaffold contained hexagonal closed-packed Zn peaks related to the a-Zn phase, validating that scaffolds were free from contamination and impurity. The range for ultimate compressive strength, compressive modulus and plateau stresses for Zn samples were found to be 6.75–39 MPa, 0.14–3.51 GPa and 1.85–12.6 MPa by adjusting their porosity, which are comparable with the cancellous bones. The average roughness value for the Zn scaffolds was found to be 1.86 µm.

Originality/value

This research work can widen the scope for extrusion-based FDM printers for fabricating biocompatible and biodegradable metal Zn scaffolds. This study also revealed the effects of scaffold structural properties like porosity, pore and strut size effect on their mechanical characteristics in view of tissue engineering applications.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 29 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 September 2023

Ioannis Sitaridis and Fotis Kitsios

Continuous advances in digital technology and business models digitalization have decisively altered the entrepreneurial landscape redefining the aims and the requirements of…

1550

Abstract

Purpose

Continuous advances in digital technology and business models digitalization have decisively altered the entrepreneurial landscape redefining the aims and the requirements of entrepreneurial education to suit the new digital reality in entrepreneurship. The purpose of this study is to shed light in a neglected niche in the intersection between digital entrepreneurship (DE) and entrepreneurship education and outline DE education as field of research. Given that the interdisciplinary growth of DE research outpaces instructional designs in terms of required knowledge and skills, it is important to document how entrepreneurship education responds to the ongoing integration of emerging digital technologies with the entrepreneurial process. Moreover, the introduction of a DE education conceptual framework would facilitate the discussion on theoretical and practical implications and promote new conceptualizations in future research, new educational approaches and new curriculum designs.

Design/methodology/approach

A concept-driven, semi-structured developmental literature review methodology, based on grounded theory and reinforced with increased systemization, was used for the identification and analysis of peer-reviewed articles. Previous literature reviews were used to define the search keywords. The articles from three databases were carefully selected, based on protocol and strict eligibility criteria. The papers in the final set were classified in four primary dimensions, synthesized from several sub-streams of research. Each sub-stream highlighting a different view of DE education emerged through open, axial and selective coding of articles. The combined perspectives of these dimensions resulted in a new DE conceptual framework.

Findings

Thematic interrelation between the studies examined, revealed an ample view of the various schools of thought in the research field, offering also a better understanding on how entrepreneurial education addresses the practical requirements of digital entrepreneurship. A four dimensional conceptual framework produced highlights pedagogy and learning, success factors and barriers, behavioral approach and ecosystems as the current trends of research. Also, directions for future research are proposed.

Practical implications

The classification framework proposed can serve as a roadmap for entrepreneurship educators seeking efficient pedagogical practices focused on the transfer of knowledge and training on the new skills required by DE and motivate future researchers aiming to propose novel educational interventions.

Originality/value

Although digital entrepreneurship research has gained significant momentum in recent years, little attention is paid to its increased educational requirements. The body of knowledge develops in an uncontrolled and fragmented manner, and the systematic study of the field from an educational perspective was missing. This study offers a representative picture of the topic, highlights current trends of research, synthesizes literature from different disciplinary origins, provides linkages between unconnected streams of research and points out research gaps. Finally, it proposes a conceptual framework to circumscribe DE education as a field of study and serve as a basis to help future research move forward.

Details

International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research, vol. 30 no. 2/3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2554

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 30 November 2023

Rahma Isaack Adam, Farha Deba Sufian and Lucy Njogu

Women’s empowerment remains a key development challenge in Kenya. The purpose of this study is to attempt to understand the status of women’s empowerment and the key contributors…

1019

Abstract

Purpose

Women’s empowerment remains a key development challenge in Kenya. The purpose of this study is to attempt to understand the status of women’s empowerment and the key contributors to their disempowerment in Kenya’s aquaculture sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 534 male and female fish farmers from 300 households drawn from six counties in Kenya (Kakamega, Kisumu, Kisii, Kiambu, Meru and Nyeri). The Abbreviated Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index (A-WEAI) was adapted to Abbreviated Women’s Empowerment in Fisheries and Aquaculture Index (A-WEFI) to suit the aquaculture and fisheries sub-sector. The adapted A-WEFI was then used to estimate and the status of women’s and men’s using five domains of empowerment (5DE) and a gender parity index (GPI). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Cramer’s V and sensitivity analysis as test statistics.

Findings

About 86% of the men and 80% of the women were classified as empowered. The mean score of the 5DE was 0.93 and 0.95 for women and men, respectively. In addition, 82% of the households achieved gender parity, suggesting that for such households, empowerment of men was no greater than that of women. Overall, the results suggest no major differences between the empowerment of women and men. Findings suggest areas of improvement in empowerment: when observed separately, women report lack of agency in production, resource, time-use and allocation and leadership.

Originality/value

This paper adapts the A-WEAI to the fisheries and aquaculture context, in bid to bridge the gap in standard women’s empowerment measurement methods in this area. Also, there are limited empirical studies on the multifaceted empowerment of women in aquaculture in Kenya. The findings are meant to serve as a point of reference for policymakers, as they develop gender-responsive intervention programmes, and in implementing gender mainstreaming in Kenya.

Details

International Journal of Development Issues, vol. 23 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1446-8956

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 May 2024

Faiza Ihsan-Ghafoor, Rachel Worthington and Louise Coughlin

This systematic review sought to examine the research body on acquisitive offending among female offenders, specifically exploring what factors may take females closer towards…

Abstract

Purpose

This systematic review sought to examine the research body on acquisitive offending among female offenders, specifically exploring what factors may take females closer towards engaging in acquisitive offending and what factors may support desistance from this behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review was conducted, using the recommended guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. A total of 8,129 initial articles were identified from the search terms, 77 articles were deemed suitable to meet the inclusion criteria and are explored in the results section. Papers were screened for quality appraisal and risk of bias.

Findings

Ten factors were identified that took females closer towards offending. Five factors were identified that took females away from offending. Based on the findings, four typologies of female acquisitive offenders were identified: short-term orientation (adolescent); mental health orientation; life-course persistent (theft); and acquisitive diversity (including robbery and burglary).

Research limitations/implications

Future research would benefit from exploring a more rich understanding of the mechanisms that underpin why females engage in acquisitive offending and what factors contribute towards their desistance. A wider range of bio-psycho-social factors, which may increase the risk of acquisitive offending, should also be considered in future research alongside ways in which interventions may be gender-responsive.

Originality/value

This review provides insight into the differing functions and typologies of female acquisitive offending. Interventions for each of these typologies are considered within the review.

Details

Journal of Criminal Psychology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2009-3829

Keywords

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