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1 – 10 of over 4000
Article
Publication date: 9 April 2018

Sue Holttum

Humans have close relationships with animals for companionship and in working roles. The purpose of this paper is to discuss recent papers on pets and dog-assisted interventions…

1646

Abstract

Purpose

Humans have close relationships with animals for companionship and in working roles. The purpose of this paper is to discuss recent papers on pets and dog-assisted interventions, and relates their findings to social inclusion.

Design/methodology/approach

A search was carried out for recent papers on pets, animal-assisted therapy and social inclusion/exclusion.

Findings

One paper discusses theories (often lacking in studies of animal-assisted therapy) of why animals may be good for human health and development. A recent review shows evidence that family pet ownership may aid children’s well-being, learning and social development, but too few studies have followed children over time in pet and non-pet households. Studies of dog-assisted interventions show stress-reduction, which in turn may explain why therapy for mental health in young people and adults was more effective with a dog than without. Social inclusion is hinted at but not measured directly, yet dog-assisted therapy might be helpful in this regard.

Originality/value

All the papers discussed in detail here represent up-to-date understanding in this area of knowledge. Benefits of human-animal bonds, especially with dogs, appear to be well-supported by biological as well as observational and self-report evidence. More research is needed on how much these attachments may assist social relating and relationships with other people, and social inclusion.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. 22 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2006

R. Jeziórska

To convert the post‐production polyethylene terephthalate (PET)‐containing fabrics waste into new value‐added polymeric materials using maleic anhydride grafted linear low‐density…

6936

Abstract

Purpose

To convert the post‐production polyethylene terephthalate (PET)‐containing fabrics waste into new value‐added polymeric materials using maleic anhydride grafted linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE‐g‐MAH) for improved toughness and to optimise the results of such a modification.

Design/methodology/approach

For effective toughening, various blends were made of polyamide 6 (PA) and post‐production PET‐containing fabrics waste (PET) by incorporating different concentrations of maleic anhydride grafted, linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE‐g‐MAH). The reactions of LLDPE‐g‐MAH with blend components were studied by Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy, solubility behaviour of the products in formic acid and rheological measurements. Blends investigated were prepared in a co‐rotating twin‐screw extruder and characterised by differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy. The static tensile property and impact strength of the blends were also measured.

Findings

The modification of polyamide 6 and post‐production PET‐containing fabrics waste using LLDPE‐g‐MAH showed significant enhancement of impact and interfacial adhesion over the unmodified one. The modification caused a chemical linkage between LLDPE‐g‐MAH and blend components which led not only to forming PA‐co‐LLDPE‐g‐MAH‐co‐PET copolymers, but also to ensuring the intrinsically strong chemical bonds across LLDPE‐g‐MAH phase/PET phase/PA matrix interface, which was the main cause to the improved impact strength and interface adhesion. The optimum results were obtained at 10 per cent of LLDPE‐g‐MAH.

Research limitations/implications

The post‐production PET‐containing fabrics waste used in the present context was defibrated before processing.

Practical implications

The method developed provided a simple and practical solution to recycling and improving the toughness of post‐production PET‐containing fabrics waste.

Originality/value

The method of recycling post‐production PET‐containing fabrics waste was novel and the new polymeric materials obtained could find numerous applications such as hybrid films, fibres and engineering polymers.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 35 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 September 2014

June McNicholas

The purpose of this paper is to summarise some of the major scientific research projects that identify the value of pet ownership and pet interaction to older people with a view…

1007

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to summarise some of the major scientific research projects that identify the value of pet ownership and pet interaction to older people with a view to disseminating such findings to health professionals and care workers engaged in the welfare of older people.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of findings from major international studies across a number of health related disciplines.

Findings

Pets may serve significant functions that enhance the physical, emotional and social well-being of older people. With recognition from health professionals, pet ownership may rank highly amongst those elements which should be preserved wherever possible.

Originality/value

The dissemination of the importance of pet ownership to the health and well-being of older people, with special implications for policy development amongst care providers.

Details

Working with Older People, vol. 18 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-3666

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 March 2010

Hye Rim Kim and Wha Soon Song

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the conditions of the treatment using commercial lipase to improve the hydrophilicity of the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabrics.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the conditions of the treatment using commercial lipase to improve the hydrophilicity of the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

The lipase treatment conditions, such as the pH, temperature, treatment time, and concentration, are controlled by measuring the hydrolytic activity, moisture regain, and wettability of the treated fabrics. The effects of calcium ions on the moisture regain and wettability of the treated fabrics are also evaluated.

Findings

The lipase treatment conditions for PET fabrics are controlled at a pH of 7.5, a temperature of 30°C, a treatment time of 60 min, and a lipase concentration of 50 percent (owf). The moisture regain of the PET fabrics that are treated with lipase improved 3.3 times that of the untreated PET fabric. Calcium chloride did not affect the moisture regain of the treated fabrics but affected their wettability. The surface of the PET fabrics that are treated under optimum conditions and in the presence of calcium chloride showed many cracks and voids, unlike the surface of the untreated PET fabrics.

Research limitations/implications

The lipase treatment did not affect the handle of the PET fabrics in the present paper because the weight loss is very small.

Originality/value

In this paper, the control conditions for the improvement of the hydrophilicity of PET fabrics using the low‐cost commercial lipase are determined. The results of the study could further the environment‐friendly finishing of PET fabrics.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 22 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 September 2014

Stephen F. Winner

– The purpose of this paper is to share the positive effects pets have on individuals diagnosed with various memory-impairing diseases.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share the positive effects pets have on individuals diagnosed with various memory-impairing diseases.

Design/methodology/approach

Observations were gathered over a period of approximately 18 years, from 1996 to 2014. These observations, which began in just one Silverado community exclusively for those with memory impairments, have remained consistent over time and are now seen in 33 communities across the USA.

Findings

Frequent interaction and access to various pets adds a sense of purpose and life to Silverado residents, each of whom was diagnosed with dementia or other memory impairing diseases.

Research limitations/implications

The findings rely on a variety of personal observations from caregivers, doctors, nurses, resident families and community leadership.

Practical implications

Including pets in an assisted living community creates an environment filled with life and compassion, which ultimately gives many residents a sense of purpose again.

Social implications

The Silverado Pet Philosophy furthers the organization's mission to change the way the world perceives and cares for those with memory impairments.

Originality/value

There are limited case studies that outline the positive effects of pets in a memory care community over this length of time.

Details

Working with Older People, vol. 18 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-3666

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 May 2023

Berkay Ergene, Gökmen Atlıhan and Ahmet Murat Pinar

This study aims to reveal the influences of three-dimensional (3D) printing parameters such as layer heights (0.1 mm, 0.2 mm and 0.4 mm), infill rates (40, 70 and 100%) and…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to reveal the influences of three-dimensional (3D) printing parameters such as layer heights (0.1 mm, 0.2 mm and 0.4 mm), infill rates (40, 70 and 100%) and geometrical property as tapered angle (0, 0.25 and 0.50) on vibrational behavior of 3D-printed polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PET-G) tapered beams with fused filament fabrication (FFF) method.

Design/methodology/approach

In this performance, all test specimens were modeled in AutoCAD 2020 software and then 3D-printed by FFF. The effects of printing parameters on the natural frequencies of 3D-printed PET-G beams with different tapered angles were also analyzed experimentally, and numerically (finite element analysis) via Ansys APDL 16 program. In addition to vibrational properties, tensile strength, elasticity modulus, hardness, and surface roughness of the 3D-printed PET-G parts were examined.

Findings

It can be stated that average surface roughness values ranged between 1.63 and 6.91 µm. In addition, the highest and lowest hardness values were found as 68.6 and 58.4 Shore D. Tensile strength and elasticity modulus increased with the increase of infill rate and decrease of the layer height. In conclusion, natural frequency of the 3D-printed PET-G beams went up with higher infill rate values though no critical change was observed for layer height and a change in tapered angle fluctuated the natural frequency values significantly.

Research limitations/implications

The influence of printing parameters on the vibrational properties of 3D-printed PET-G beams with different tapered angles was carried out and the determination of these effects is quite important. On the other hand, with the addition of glass or carbon fiber reinforcements to the PET-G filaments, the material and vibrational properties of the parts can be examined in future works.

Practical implications

As a result of this study, it was shown that natural frequencies of the 3D-printed tapered beams from PET-G material can be predicted via finite element analysis after obtaining material data with the help of mechanical/physical tests. In addition, the outcome of this study can be used as a reference during the design of parts that are subjected to vibration such as turbine blades, drone arms, propellers, orthopedic implants, scaffolds and gears.

Social implications

It is believed that determination of the effect of the most used 3D printing parameters (layer height and infill rate) and geometrical property of tapered angle on natural frequencies of the 3D-printed parts will be very useful for researchers and engineers; especially when the importance of resonance is known well.

Originality/value

When the literature efforts are scanned in depth, it can be seen that there are many studies about mechanical or wear properties of the 3D-printed parts. However, this is the first study which focuses on the influences of the both 3D printing parameters and tapered angles on the vibrational behaviors of the tapered PET-G beams produced with material extrusion based FFF method. In addition, obtained experimental results were also supported with the performed finite element analysis.

Details

Multidiscipline Modeling in Materials and Structures, vol. 19 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1573-6105

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 July 2023

Amalia Hidalgo-Fernández, Salvador Moral-Cuadra, Antonio Menor-Campos and Tomas Lopez-Guzman

The purpose of this paper is to perform an analysis of how pets in general and dogs in particular condition the planning and realisation of people’s trips. Similarly, the…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to perform an analysis of how pets in general and dogs in particular condition the planning and realisation of people’s trips. Similarly, the motivations that lead families to travel with their pets in Spain are analysed.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used in this research consisted of carrying out fieldwork based on surveys of 1,696 dog owners in Spain. The data analysis was carried out using a Partial Least Squares methodology (PLS-SEM) to test the relationship of the families with their pets, the motivations they have for travelling with their pets and the assessment of the destination by both the family and the pet itself.

Findings

The main results of this research focus on analysing how and when a family plans a trip with their pet, except for their second home, there are several motivations for both families themselves and their pets, which condition this trip and that must be considered by tourist destinations. Similarly, it is also concluded that the motivations are closely related to the attachment that the family has to the pet.

Originality/value

The originality of this research focuses on including the relationship of the family with their dog and the adequacy of the destination to the needs of their pet as motivation to make a certain trip or choose a certain destination.

Details

Consumer Behavior in Tourism and Hospitality, vol. 18 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2752-6666

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 March 2023

Dimitrios Buhalis and Janelle Chan

Pet-friendly hotels are growing rapidly. The prevalence of pet adoption has largely resulted from the loneliness due to social distancing that happened during the Coronavirus…

1580

Abstract

Purpose

Pet-friendly hotels are growing rapidly. The prevalence of pet adoption has largely resulted from the loneliness due to social distancing that happened during the Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Many hotels around the world aim to become pet-friendly to satisfy the growing demand. Hoteliers believe that the popularity of pet-friendly hotels will continue, as pet owners often treat pets as their kids. This study aims to investigate how pet-friendly hotels need to design and manage pet-friendly services and policies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using grounded theory methodology, this research conducts interviews with 25 pet-friendly hotel managers from Hong Kong (HK). The study includes hotels from different hotel categories and classifications. It examines the conceptualization of pet-friendly service design, drawing on a service blueprint.

Findings

Building on the service marketing and service blueprint literature, this research provides a synthesis that reflects how pet-friendly hotels can serve both guests with and without pets. The findings reveal that pet-owner’s service expectations are formed on anthropomorphism, that is, an inclination of attributing human features to nonhuman entity. Hotel managers, and particular those who have pets personally understand better how pet-friendly service can be adapted to meet the expectations and requirements of pet owners while accommodating guests without pets. The market of pet-friendly hospitality is growing, with high profit potential from pet owners who are willing to spend generously.

Research limitations/implications

Data were collected from selected pet-friendly hotels in HK through interviews with pet-friendly service providers. The research is qualitative and exploratory in nature. It aims to explore and examine the multilevel pet-friendly hospitality service design from a managerial perspective. This research enriches the literature on anthropomorphism theory, the design of pet-friendly services and the application of service blueprint.

Practical implications

The research offers explicit suggestions for the design of pet-friendly hospitality services. A pet-friendly hotel service blueprint is developed. This can help managers to develop essential pet-friendly policies and service collaborations between internal departments and with external specialist organizations, maximizing the value for all stakeholders.

Originality/value

The study explores a rapidly emerging market and scrutinizes its specific design requirements. It extends theoretical insights by enriching the anthropomorphism theory and broadening the conceptualizations of service blueprint based on anthropomorphism theory.

Details

International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, vol. 35 no. 12
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-6119

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 November 2022

Hyunah Kim

This study examined the wear comfort and thermal insulation properties of Al2O3/graphite particle-imbedded sheath/core and dispersed fabrics via a thermal manikin experiment.

Abstract

Purpose

This study examined the wear comfort and thermal insulation properties of Al2O3/graphite particle-imbedded sheath/core and dispersed fabrics via a thermal manikin experiment.

Design/methodology/approach

Al2O3/graphite sheath/core and dispersed polyethylene terephthalate (PET) yarn (POY 120d/24f) were spun using a pilot melt bi-component conjugated spinning machine, which was texturized as 75d/24f on the belt-type texturing machine. The woven fabric specimens were made using nylon 70d/34f in the warp with three types of weft yarn: Al2O3/graphite sheath/core, dispersed and regular PET yarns. Thermal insulation properties were measured and compared in terms of the heat retention rate (I) by KES-F7 apparatus and the maximum surface temperature by light heat emission equipment, as verified by the emissivity of various fabric specimens by far-infrared ray experiment. In addition, this study examined the thermal insulation (Clo value) characteristics of the clothes made of Al2O3/graphite sheath/core and dispersed fabrics using a thermal manikin apparatus, which were compared with the properties of regular PET clothing.

Findings

The thermal insulation of the dispersed fabric was superior to that of the sheath/core fabric, which was tentatively attributed to the higher emissivity of the dispersed yarn with Al2O3/graphite particles distributed over the whole yarn cross-section than that from the core of the sheath/core yarn. This result for the clothing measured using a thermal manikin was consistent with the higher heat retention rate (I) and the maximum surface temperature of the dispersed fabric than that of the sheath/core fabric. In addition, the thermal insulation of the dispersed and sheath/core fabrics was superior to that of the regular PET fabric, which revealed that the Al2O3/graphite particles imbedded in the dispersed and sheath/core yarns exerted a greater effect on the heat storage and release characteristics compared to that of the TiO2 particles in regular PET yarn. The Clo values of the dispersed and sheath/core fabrics under the light-on condition were much higher than those under the light-off condition, and furthermore, the difference of the Clo value between the sheath/core and regular PET fabrics under light-on condition was approximately 1.7 times greater than that under the light-off condition. These results revealed that the far-infrared rays emitted from the Al2O3/graphite particles imbedded in the sheath/core and dispersed yarns enhance the heat storage and release characteristics from the fabric under the light-on condition, i.e. under the sunlight.

Originality/value

The previously examined thermal wear comfort properties of the various inorganic particle-imbedded fabrics were measured with the fabric state, not clothing, which could not provide objective data related to the actual wearing performance of clothing.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 35 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 October 2022

Hosea Ofe, Harm Minnema and Mark de Reuver

This paper aims to propose a framework for how privacy-preserving technologies (PETs) create business value for organizations. The framework was developed by examining the…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a framework for how privacy-preserving technologies (PETs) create business value for organizations. The framework was developed by examining the literature on privacy and information technology’s impact (symbolic and function). The authors evaluate the framework’s applicability using multiparty computation (MPC) as an instance of PETs, with expert interviews in the telecommunication industry.

Design/methodology/approach

In an illustrative case of four telecommunication companies, the authors conducted semi-structured interviews with experts and used MPC as an instance of PET.

Findings

The evaluation of the framework indicates that PETs create business value for organizations: enhancing customer interactions, sales, personalized services, predicting market trends and collaboration among organizations. The findings show that business value of PETs is mainly driven by consumers and organizations willing to share data and collaborate.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited to the telecom sector and focused on MPC as an instance of PET. Further studies should be conducted to explore the benefits of other PETs and MPC. Future research could find out if this framework is also helpful for implementing other PETs or even other types of technology. The authors’ framework provides factors that future studies can use to quantify the impact of PETs. The authors hope that this framework provides an overarching reference for organizations considering the adoption of PETs.

Practical implications

The authors’ findings inform managers in exploring the business value of PETs for organizations. This study also provides insights into which costs and risks to consider when implementing PETs.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few to propose a framework on how PETs create business value for organizations. Future research can use factors in the framework (e.g. customer interactions, sales, personalized services and market trend prediction) to conduct a quantitative study on PETs’ business value. Managers adopting PETs can use the framework to identify areas where PETs impact their organization.

Details

Digital Policy, Regulation and Governance, vol. 24 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-5038

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 4000