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Article
Publication date: 27 May 2024

Shyamala Venkatachalapathi, Radha Shankararajan, Kiruthika Ramany and Iyappan Gunasekaran

The purpose of this study is to develop a straightforward method for creating a non – toxic metal oxide sensor capable of detecting melamine in milk at ambient temperature.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a straightforward method for creating a non – toxic metal oxide sensor capable of detecting melamine in milk at ambient temperature.

Design/methodology/approach

A low temperature, straightforward solution-based approach, specifically the hydrothermal method was utilized to apply the active sensing layer onto the substrate. Subsequently, analysis of the cyclic voltammetry (CV) profile was conducted to detect the concentration of melamine and determine its sensitivity.

Findings

An experimental analysis was performed on a nontoxic metal oxide-based sensor fabricated for detecting melamine sensitivity using the CV profile. The sensor’s performance was evaluated under three different concentrations of melamine (0.1 mmol, 0.2 mmol and 0.3 mmol). The results demonstrated a satisfactory sensitivity of 0.0297 µAmM−1cm−2 with a response time of 2 s.

Originality/value

The primary innovation of this research lies in the creation of a nontoxic and environmentally friendly sensor. The synthesis method employed featured significantly lower temperatures compared to existing literatures. Furthermore, the sensor achieved enhanced sensitivity along with rapid response times.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 44 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 16 September 2024

Maggie Webster

Children's film and fiction often portray a witch as either an evil hag or an incompetent older woman yet when the male witch is within the narrative, he is named Sorcerer or…

Abstract

Children's film and fiction often portray a witch as either an evil hag or an incompetent older woman yet when the male witch is within the narrative, he is named Sorcerer or Wizard, suggesting therefore that (unlike the hag) age and gender is not a factor when performing witchcraft. Moreover, the male witch identity is introduced from the position of empowerment and competency rather than prejudice. Witch identities are gendered, and the male witch is underappreciated and overlooked by the historical identity of the female witch.

This chapter analyses how the male witch is presented in selected children's film and fiction through the frameworks of Hegemonic, Hybrid, and Mosaic Masculinity. Hegemonic Masculinity demonstrates the toxic performance of the male witch, indicating to readers and audiences that to be male and a witch, a heterosexual man must be cruel and manipulative. Hybrid Masculinities relate to some patriarchal behaviours such as violent outbursts, that also blend with more empathetic and emotional behaviours. Mosaic Masculinity presents the male witch in a way that is fluid and disrupts the binary of Hegemonic and Hybrid Masculinity.

This chapter acknowledges the absence of presence of the male witch and encourages a more authentic representation of the male witch that is akin to those who practice witchcraft. There are non-toxic examples of masculinity that challenge the potential for stereotyping, hence there is a need for a better representation of what it means to be a witch within popular culture.

Details

Gender and the Male Character in 21st Century Fairy Tale Narratives
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83753-789-1

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 July 2024

Giuseppe Modarelli, Christian Rainero and Stefano Amelio

The purpose of this study is to provide a bidimensional perspective to study the role that diversity and occupation play in corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a bidimensional perspective to study the role that diversity and occupation play in corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Design/methodology/approach

Five big American companies were selected from a ranking carried out by a globally recognised website for finding flexible and inclusive jobs (www.flexjob.com). After a gap evaluation, content analysis and click analysis were carried out on the institutional websites.

Findings

This analysis provides insight into best practices for inducing employees to select inclusive and non-toxic working environments.

Research limitations/implications

Owing to its original application of game-based inclusiveness, the limited cases and exploratory research approach should be considered as limits of the study.

Practical implications

The research illustrates the internal relevance of sustainability and diversity, creating best practices for bidimensional CSR by matching the offer of and demand for social-inclusive recruitment and employment.

Originality/value

In pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal No.10, regarding reduction of inequalities, games as an inclusive practice could be used to avoid toxic work environments and promote well-being in the workplace.

Details

Social Responsibility Journal, vol. 20 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1747-1117

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 14 December 2023

Fouad Al Bayaty, Mazen M. Jamil Al-Obaidi, Anissa Lokman, Suhaila Yazid and Omar Emad Ibrahim

This study examines the osteoconductive and healing capabilities of locally implanted synthetic hydroxyapatite (sHAp) derived from eggshells in the central incisor sockets of rats.

Abstract

Purpose

This study examines the osteoconductive and healing capabilities of locally implanted synthetic hydroxyapatite (sHAp) derived from eggshells in the central incisor sockets of rats.

Design/methodology/approach

Toxicity experiments were conducted in vitro and in vivo, to testify the safety dosage of sHAp. Around 24 mature male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats had their upper central incisors extracted. The rats were placed into three groups of eight rats each: Group 1: the sockets of extracted central incisors were left unfilled (control), Group 2: filled up with commercially available hydroxyapatite (HAp) and Group 3: implanted with sHAp locally retrieved from eggshells. After extraction, four rats from each group were sacrificed at 2nd and 4th weeks. Maxillary tissue sections were obtained and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson’s trichome (MT) staining. Anti-osteocalcin (OCN) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were used primary antibodies for immunohistochemistry (IHC) special labeling.

Findings

The results showed that the locally implanted sHAp was non-toxic and safe in cell lines (human osteoblast and fibroblast) and animals. Histological analysis of H&E, MT and IHC showed that the sockets treated with locally implanted sHAp from eggshells were filled with new bone tissue of comparable thickness to other groups.

Originality/value

This unique technique uses locally implanted eggshell-derived sHAp with osteoconductive characteristics. In an in vivo model, sHAps increased OCN and PCNA expression to improve bone repair.

Details

Arab Gulf Journal of Scientific Research, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1985-9899

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 September 2024

Liberato Venant Haule

A review of sustainability challenges of flame retardants (FRs) for textiles has been conducted. Specifically, the purpose of this paper is to identify and recommend solutions to…

Abstract

Purpose

A review of sustainability challenges of flame retardants (FRs) for textiles has been conducted. Specifically, the purpose of this paper is to identify and recommend solutions to sustainability challenges emanating from the raw material, processing technology and performance of the FRs used for textiles.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach used in preparing this paper was based on the review of various scholarly databases about the subject matter. The review approach is designed to inform the readers about the sustainability challenges of FRs for textiles. The science of burning and FRs for synthetic and cellulosic fibres were reviewed. Both synthetic and natural biodegradable FRs for textiles has been identified. The obtained literature was then synthesised to get information about sustainable challenges of non-halogenated FRs both synthetic and natural biodegradable. Finally, possible approaches for mitigating the identified challenges have been recommended.

Findings

The sustainability challenges of the FRs in terms of raw material, processing, affordability and performance have been identified. Synthetic FRs suffer from sustainability challenges in terms of raw materials, processing and non-renewability. Despite the environmental friendliness and sustainability in terms of being renewability, processability and biodegradability, natural biodegradable FRs have poor performance compared to synthetic ones. Moreover, natural biodegradable FRs depend on geographical condition and lack economic variability data. Potentially, the challenges of FRs can be mitigated through eco-friendly synthesis, chemical modification and sustainable methods of applications. Because of its renewability and environmental friendliness, biodegradable FRs have a potential to becoming sustainable if researched more.

Originality/value

In this review, a collection of literature about sustainability challenges of FRs and the approaches to overcome the challenges has been provided. The collected information was analysed and synthesised to bring understanding of the science of burning, types and application of FRs for textiles and biodegradable FRs. Sustainability challenges have been identified, and mitigation approaches are provided.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 March 2024

Abhishek Kumar and Manpreet Manshahia

The aim of this study is to present an overview of sustainable practices in the development of waterproof breathable fabrics for garments. It aims to provide insights into the…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to present an overview of sustainable practices in the development of waterproof breathable fabrics for garments. It aims to provide insights into the current state of academic research in this domain and identify and analyze major sustainable trends in the field.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducts a thorough examination of research publications sourced from the Scopus database spanning the years 2013–2023 by employing a systematic approach. The research utilizes both descriptive analysis and content analysis to identify trends, notable journals and leading countries in sustainable waterproof breathable fabric development.

Findings

The study reveals a notable increase in studies focusing on sustainable approaches in the development of waterproof breathable fabrics for garments. Descriptive analysis highlights the most prominent journal and leading country in terms of research volume. Content analysis identifies four key trends: minimizing chemical usage, developing easily degradable materials, creating fabrics promoting health and well-being and initiatives to reduce energy consumption.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this research lies in its exclusive reliance on the Scopus database.

Practical implications

The insights derived from this study offer practical guidance for prospective researchers interested in investigating sustainable approaches to developing waterproof breathable fabric for garments. The identified trends provide a foundation for aligning research endeavors with contemporary global perspectives, facilitating the integration of sustainable methodologies into the garment industry.

Originality/value

This systematic literature review contributes original insights by synthesizing current research trends and outlining evolving sustainable practices in the development of waterproof breathable fabrics. The identification of key focus areas adds a novel perspective to existing knowledge.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 October 2023

Liang Ma and Jun Li

The present study provides a comprehensive review of the advancements in five active heating modes for cold-proof clothing as of 2021. It aims to evaluate the current state of…

Abstract

Purpose

The present study provides a comprehensive review of the advancements in five active heating modes for cold-proof clothing as of 2021. It aims to evaluate the current state of research for each heating mode and identify their limitations. Further, the study provides insights into the optimization of intelligent temperature control algorithms and design considerations for intelligent cold-proof clothing.

Design/methodology/approach

This article presents a classification of active heating systems based on five different heating principles: electric heating system, solar heating system, phase-change material (PCM) heating system, chemical heating system and fluid/air heating system. The systems are analyzed and evaluated in terms of heating principle, research advancement, scientific challenges and application potential in the field of cold-proof clothing.

Findings

The rational utilization of active heating modes enhances the thermal efficiency of cold-proof clothing, resulting in enhanced cold-resistance and reduced volume and weight. Despite progress in the development of the five prevalent heating modes, particularly with regard to the improvement and advancement of heating materials, the current integration of heating systems with cold-proof clothing is limited to the torso and limbs, lacking consideration of the thermal physiological requirements of the human body. Additionally, the heating modes of each system tend to be uniform and lack differentiation to meet the varying cold protection needs of various body parts.

Research limitations/implications

The effective application of multiple heating modes helps the human body to maintain a constant body temperature and thermal equilibrium in a cold environment. The research of heating mode is the basis for realizing the temperature control of cold-proof clothing and provides an effective guarantee for the future development of the intelligent algorithms for temperature control of non-uniform heating of body segments.

Practical implications

The integration of multiple heating modes ensures the maintenance of a constant body temperature and thermal balance for the wearer in cold environments. The research of heating modes forms the foundation for the temperature regulation of cold-proof clothing and lays the groundwork for the development of intelligent algorithms for non-uniform heating control of different body segments.

Originality/value

The present article systematically reviews five active heating modes suitable for use in cold-proof clothing and offers guidance for the selection of heating systems in future smart cold-proof clothing. Furthermore, the findings of this research provide a basis for future research on non-uniform heating modes that are aligned with the thermal physiological needs of the human body, thus contributing to the development of cold-proof clothing that is better suited to meet the thermal needs of the human body.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 35 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 March 2023

Alexandra Idoko, Ernest Mbamalu Ezeh, Obiechinne Chigbue Philip, Onubuiwe Nelson Nwali, Patrick Okechukwu Ugwudike, Peter Chinedu Agu, Tadese Adediura Ayomide, Anne Nebeolisa Onyinye and Nneoma Okoroha Blessing

The purpose of this study was to examined the health effects of raw and cooked aqueous and methanol extracts of Vigna unguiculata on kidney function in Wistar rats.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examined the health effects of raw and cooked aqueous and methanol extracts of Vigna unguiculata on kidney function in Wistar rats.

Design/methodology/approach

Thirty-six Wistar rats (weighing 160 ± 10 g) were randomly assigned into nine (9) groups (n = 4). Group I (control): no extract. Groups II and III (aqueous extract of the cooked 350 mg/kg and 550 mg/kg). Groups IV and V (methanol extracts of cooked 350 mg/kg and 550 mg/kg). Groups VI and VII (methanol extracts of raw 350 mg/kg and 550 mg/kg). Groups VIII and IX (aqueous extract of raw 350 mg/kg and 550 mg/kg). After the seventh day of the trial, the rats were euthanized with chloroform, and blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis.

Findings

Results showed that the doses applied for cooked and raw V. unguiculata significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced kidney functions by increasing the body weight, glucose level, concentration of serum urea, creatinine, total protein, potassium and chloride in test groups compared with control. The packed cell volume and haemoglobin concentrations of raw aqueous extract at 550 mg/kg (36.5 ± 5.1; 12.3 ± 2.8) were significantly (p = 0.001) higher (29.8 ± 11.8; 10.3 ± 3.9) than the 350 mg/kg dose of the same extract, and cooked aqueous extract at 350 mg/kg dose was significantly (p = 0.001) higher (28.0 ± 10.1; 9.3 ± 3.4) than that of 550 mg/kg (25.8 ± 4.9; 8.8 ± 3.9) dose of the extracts.

Originality/value

The nutritional content of V. unguiculata potentially can augment the nutritional content of a diet and to a large extent, the regular consumers’ health. Essentially, V. unguiculata is composed of both macro and micronutrients capable of promoting normal kidney function.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. 53 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 25 April 2024

Ilse Valenzuela Matus, Jorge Lino Alves, Joaquim Góis, Paulo Vaz-Pires and Augusto Barata da Rocha

The purpose of this paper is to review cases of artificial reefs built through additive manufacturing (AM) technologies and analyse their ecological goals, fabrication process…

1393

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review cases of artificial reefs built through additive manufacturing (AM) technologies and analyse their ecological goals, fabrication process, materials, structural design features and implementation location to determine predominant parameters, environmental impacts, advantages, and limitations.

Design/methodology/approach

The review analysed 16 cases of artificial reefs from both temperate and tropical regions. These were categorised based on the AM process used, the mortar material used (crucial for biological applications), the structural design features and the location of implementation. These parameters are assessed to determine how effectively the designs meet the stipulated ecological goals, how AM technologies demonstrate their potential in comparison to conventional methods and the preference locations of these implementations.

Findings

The overview revealed that the dominant artificial reef implementation occurs in the Mediterranean and Atlantic Seas, both accounting for 24%. The remaining cases were in the Australian Sea (20%), the South Asia Sea (12%), the Persian Gulf and the Pacific Ocean, both with 8%, and the Indian Sea with 4% of all the cases studied. It was concluded that fused filament fabrication, binder jetting and material extrusion represent the main AM processes used to build artificial reefs. Cementitious materials, ceramics, polymers and geopolymer formulations were used, incorporating aggregates from mineral residues, biological wastes and pozzolan materials, to reduce environmental impacts, promote the circular economy and be more beneficial for marine ecosystems. The evaluation ranking assessed how well their design and materials align with their ecological goals, demonstrating that five cases were ranked with high effectiveness, ten projects with moderate effectiveness and one case with low effectiveness.

Originality/value

AM represents an innovative method for marine restoration and management. It offers a rapid prototyping technique for design validation and enables the creation of highly complex shapes for habitat diversification while incorporating a diverse range of materials to benefit environmental and marine species’ habitats.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 30 no. 11
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

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