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11 – 20 of 256
Article
Publication date: 1 November 2021

Yi Liu, Guangyao Qiu, Tao Li, Ang Yan, Yongfeng Liu, Rongjun Qu and Changmei Sun

To treat water pollution, especially the contamination resulted from organic dyes has aroused significant attention around the world, this study aims to prepare the metal organic…

Abstract

Purpose

To treat water pollution, especially the contamination resulted from organic dyes has aroused significant attention around the world, this study aims to prepare the metal organic framework (MOF) materials hybridizing with poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) (PPTA) by means of a facile refluxing method and to systematically investigate adsorption performance for anionic dye Congo red as target molecule from aqueous solution.

Design/methodology/approach

The MOF materials hybridized by PPTA were fabricated by virtue of a facile refluxing method, characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared and pore structure.

Findings

The results showed that pseudo-second-order kinetic model could better describe the adsorption process for all the four materials, whereas Elovich model also fitted the process for the hybrid materials with PPTA. Adsorption isotherm analyses indicated that Langmuir isotherm could be used to describe the adsorption process. Introduction of appropriate amount of PPTA could enhance the adsorption affinity of the MOF materials for Congo red, and the maximum adsorption capacity could reach as high as 1,053.41 mg/g while that of the MOF material without PPTA was 666.67 mg/g, indicating introduction of PPTA could change the microenvironment of the MOF materials and increase the adsorption sites, leading to high adsorption efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

The microstructure of MOF hybridized materials in detail is the further and future investigation.

Practical implications

This study will provide a method to prepare MOF materials with high efficiency to treat anionic dyes like Congo red from aqueous solution.

Originality/value

Owing to the special characteristics of PPTA and similar to carbon tube, PPTA was introduced into MOF material to increased corresponding water stability. Because of aromatic ring and amide group on the surface of PPTA, the adsorption efficiency of the hybridized MOF material with appropriate amount of PPTA was greatly enhanced.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 52 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 May 2020

Monica Puri Sikka and Samridhi Garg

This paper aims to summarize researches conducted related to functional textiles for prevention of pressure ulcers and critical analysis of the outcomes to pave path for the…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to summarize researches conducted related to functional textiles for prevention of pressure ulcers and critical analysis of the outcomes to pave path for the future research in this area for benefit of the patients. Pressure ulcers, also known as bed sores, pressure sores and decubitus ulcers, are localized areas of tissue damage that develop due to pressure usually over a bony prominence. A standard hospital mattress has an interface pressure of 100 mmHg which can result in pressure ulcers unless repositioning occurs at regular intervals. Moisture accumulation on the skin is an important physical factor predisposing a patient to the occurrence of pressure ulcers and tissue breakdown. The disability leads to several requirements of functional clothing and textile products. The textiles play a variety of roles in this concern, from simply having good aesthetic appearance to preventing life threatening risks. An ideal support surface prevents pressure ulcers by providing pressure redistribution and maintaining a healthy skin microenvironment. The use of the textiles for the care of elderly disabled and bedridden persons can play an important role, as their quality of life can be improved by making use of functional and good-looking textiles.

Design/methodology/approach

This review paper aims to summarize researches conducted related to functional textiles for prevention of pressure ulcers and critical analysis of the outcomes to pave path for the future research in this area for benefit of the patients.

Findings

In the past years, there have been several functional textiles developed for the prevention of pressure ulcer. They are designed to maintain proper microclimate around patient skin. Sheepskin is one of the oldest used bed overlays which prevent pressure ulcer but its prolonged use leads to uneasy feeling for the patient. A sensor in bed for pressure detection is one of the good alternatives as it provides proper indication on when to change the position of the patient so that the pressure can be shifted and ulcers is prevented. These sensors are costly and complex to setup so for common man they are not easily available. Multilayer textiles on the other hand are complex to make as the properties are dependent upon the fiber content, yarn structure, fabric structure and technique of layering them together. Spacer fabric provides good air and moisture permeability, but there is a scope to study this type of fabric by varying the fibers type and thickness of the spacer fabric. A bedding material which is not much complex and can be easily purchased and used by common man for in-house usage is the need of the hour.

Originality/value

There is no comprehensive review available regarding research in this area with critical analysis of the outcomes for future study.

Details

Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, vol. 24 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1560-6074

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 September 2019

Mohd Syahir Anwar Hamzah, Azhan Austad, Saiful Izwan Abd Razak and Nadirul Hasraf Mat Nayan

Over the years, electrical stimulation in drug delivery system holds particular interest in producing spatially and temporally controlled release mechanism. These systems helped…

Abstract

Purpose

Over the years, electrical stimulation in drug delivery system holds particular interest in producing spatially and temporally controlled release mechanism. These systems helped in localized doses drugs to be administrated and response efficiently at target site to achieve excellent healing effect in control microenvironment. Extensive research is needed in order to develop versatile electroactive biomaterials in the field of therapeutics applications. This paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This work reports the development of polycaprolactone (PCL) electrospun coated with pectin/polyaniline (PANi) composite, which has been characterized and whose drug delivery application is ascertained. The composite has been characterized on its mechanical conductivity and wettability properties to evaluate best formulation. The analysis on morphological properties using scanning electron microscope (SEM) confirmed the formation of the dual-layer electro-responsive composite.

Findings

Among different formulations studied, the pectin/PANi composition (12 percent/3 percent) was found to be an optimized composition with ultimate tensile strength of 55.48±0.65 MPa and modulus strength of 63.30±0.43 MPa with 2.41×10–3 Scm−1 electrical percolation. The hydrophobic PCL electrospun reduced as coating material was introduced on top with optimum of 85.3 percent degree of swelling and water contact angle at 39.17±0.67°. SEM micrograph revealed strong interaction between dual-layer structures with interconnected porous of uniform fibers.

Originality/value

Overall, these data present a multiangle initial characterization of this novel dual-layer electro-responsive composite for applications in drug delivery. However, additional analysis should be performed in order to provide a clear verification as drug delivery scaffold.

Details

International Journal of Structural Integrity, vol. 10 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-9864

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 June 2019

İlker Polatoğlu and Fehime Cakıcıoglu Ozkan

This paper aims to present a novel and cost-effective optical biosensor design by simple preparation method for detection of “parathion-methyl,” which is a model pesticide pose to…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a novel and cost-effective optical biosensor design by simple preparation method for detection of “parathion-methyl,” which is a model pesticide pose to public health and the environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The optical enzyme biosensor (TCA) for detection of pesticide “parathion-methyl” was developed on the basis of immobilization of tyrosinase enzyme on chitosan film by adsorption technique. The analytic performance of TCA was investigated by measuring its activity with Ultraviolet (UV) visible spectrophotometer.

Findings

Uniform porous network structure and protonated groups of chitosan film provided a microenvironment for tyrosinase immobilization evident from Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy analysis. TCA has a wide linear detection range (0-1.03 µM) with high correlation coefficient and it can detect the parathion-methyl concentration as low as 159 nM by noncompetitive inhibition kinetics. Using the TCA sensor both for ten times and at least 45 days without a significant loss in its activity are the indicators of its good operational and storage stability. Moreover, TCA can be applicable to tap water, providing a promising tool for pesticides detection.

Originality/value

This is the first time to use the in situ analytical technique that can improve the performance of optical enzyme sensor provided to control the pesticide residue better with respect to traditional techniques. The effect of organic solvents on the performance of optical enzyme biosensor was investigated. Inhibition kinetic of the solvents rarely encountered in literature was also studied besides the pH and temperature tolerance of the optical biosensor.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 39 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 25 November 2019

Elaine S. Barry

Throughout human history and around the world, co-sleeping was the context for human evolutionary development. Currently, most of the world’s peoples continue to practice…

Abstract

Throughout human history and around the world, co-sleeping was the context for human evolutionary development. Currently, most of the world’s peoples continue to practice co-sleeping with infants, but there is increasing pressure on families in the West not to co-sleep. Research from anthropology, family studies, medicine, pediatrics, psychology, and public health is reviewed through the lens of a developmental theory to place co-sleeping within a developmental, theoretical context for understanding it. Viewing co-sleeping as a family choice and a normative, human developmental context changes how experts may provide advice and support to families choosing co-sleeping, especially in families making the transition to parenthood. During this transition, many decisions are made by parents “intuitively” (Ball, Hooker, & Kelly, 1999), making understanding the developmental consequences of some of those choices even more important. In Western culture, families are making “intuitive” decisions that research has shown to be beneficial, but families are not receiving complete messages about benefits and risks of co-sleeping. Co-sleeping can be an important choice for families as they make the life-changing transition to parenthood, if individualized messages about safe infant sleep practices (directed toward their individual family circumstances) are shared with them.

Details

Transitions into Parenthood: Examining the Complexities of Childrearing
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83909-222-0

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 August 2023

Erik Velasco and Elvagris Segovia

Waiting for a bus may represent a period of intense exposure to traffic particles in hot and noisy conditions in the street. To lessen the particle load and tackle heat in bus…

Abstract

Purpose

Waiting for a bus may represent a period of intense exposure to traffic particles in hot and noisy conditions in the street. To lessen the particle load and tackle heat in bus stops a shelter was equipped with an electrostatic precipitator and a three-step adiabatic cooling system capable of dynamically adjust its operation according to actual conditions. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Airbitat Oasis Smart Bus Stop, as the shelter was called, to provide clean and cool air.

Design/methodology/approach

The particle exposure experienced in this innovative shelter was contrasted with that in a conventional shelter located right next to it. Mass concentrations of fine particles and black carbon, and particle number concentration (as a proxy of ultrafine particles) were simultaneously measured in both shelters. Air temperature, relative humidity and noise level were also measured.

Findings

The new shelter did not perform as expected. It only slightly reduced the abundance of fine particles (−6.5%), but not of ultrafine particles and black carbon. Similarly, it reduced air temperature (−1 °C), but increased relative humidity (3%). Its operation did not generate additional noise.

Practical implications

The shelter's poor performance was presumably due to design flaws induced by a lack of knowledge on traffic particles and fluid dynamics in urban environments. This is an example where harnessing technology without understanding the problem to solve does not work.

Originality/value

It is uncommon to come across case studies like this one in which the performance and effectiveness of urban infrastructure can be assessed under real-life service settings.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 1992

Tom Barry

The secret of a manager becoming effective in coaching or trainingindividuals lies in personal attributes which will be respected andperhaps admired by the people involved in the…

577

Abstract

The secret of a manager becoming effective in coaching or training individuals lies in personal attributes which will be respected and perhaps admired by the people involved in the training programme. Some of these qualities include knowledge and experience, they should be effective communicators, good at self analysis and be quick to react. The old adversarial role should be abandoned if a manager wants to obtain the best results from his employees, and the analogy of a coach, in a sporting context, getting the best out of his team through a unique coach‐employee relationship is apposite.

Details

Management Development Review, vol. 5 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0962-2519

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 1982

Cray Valley Products Ltd., are arranging an organised tour in February 1983 to the S.P.I. Conference in Washington. In addition to the Conference itself visits will be arranged…

Abstract

Cray Valley Products Ltd., are arranging an organised tour in February 1983 to the S.P.I. Conference in Washington. In addition to the Conference itself visits will be arranged not only to fabricators of SMC and DMC but also to paint finishers. Emphasis throughout these visits will be on the automotive industry.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 11 no. 12
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Article
Publication date: 5 December 2023

Hao Wang and Yunna Liu

This study aims to construct a mental health service system for middle school students in the post-COVID-19 era with the framework of Six Sigma DMAIC (define, measure, analyze…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to construct a mental health service system for middle school students in the post-COVID-19 era with the framework of Six Sigma DMAIC (define, measure, analyze, improve and control) and analyze the influencing factors of the mental health service system to study the implementation strategies of quality-oriented mental health services in middle schools.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was conducted in Tianjin, China, from September to November 2022, and 350 middle school students from Tianjin Public Middle School were selected as subjects. A questionnaire survey was used to collect data. In this study, the Six Sigma DMAIC method, sensitivity analysis method, exploratory factor analysis and principal component analysis were used to analyze the mental health services provided to middle school students.

Findings

Based on the Six Sigma DMAIC framework, this study indicates that the contribution rate of the mental health service process factor is the largest in the post-COVID-19 era. The mental health cultivation factor ranks second in terms of its contribution. Mental health quality and policy factors are also important in the construction of middle school students’ mental health service system. In addition, the study highlights the importance of parental involvement and social support in student mental health services during the post-COVID-19 era.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, a study on middle school students’ mental health in the post-Covid-19 era has not yet been conducted. This study developed a quality-oriented mental health system and analyzed the influencing factors of mental health for middle school students based on data analysis and the Six Sigma DMAIC method.

Details

International Journal of Lean Six Sigma, vol. 15 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-4166

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 December 2023

Tamas Lestar and Jessica Clare Hancock

This paper analyses children's experiences of school or family visits to Hare Krishna eco-farms in Europe. The article evaluates the extent to which these encounters enable…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper analyses children's experiences of school or family visits to Hare Krishna eco-farms in Europe. The article evaluates the extent to which these encounters enable retention and recollection of memories and, consequently, trigger change towards more sustainable behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

Participatory research, qualitative observations and theories of childhood memory are used to explore the nature of children's environmental encounters on Hare Krishna eco-tours.

Findings

Findings reveal that Krishna eco-tours offer a conducive environment for cerebral registering and future reminiscing through the following components: experiential learning of sustainable practices which are radically different to mainstream alternatives, sensory experiences, nature play and entertainment and freedom from everyday constraints.

Originality/value

The emerging literature on children's eco-tourism has largely focussed on market-related aspects and farmers' needs. In contrast, the authors’ conceptual framework, based on contemporary research in childhood memories, offers a tool to evaluate the impacts of eco-tourism from a more holistic perspective.

Details

Journal of Organizational Ethnography, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6749

Keywords

11 – 20 of 256