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1 – 10 of over 2000
Article
Publication date: 24 May 2024

Puneet Vatsa, Hongyun Zheng and Wanglin Ma

We analyzed the effects of different combinations of organic soil amendments (OSAs) and chemical fertilizers on agrifood production, focusing on banana yields in China, the…

Abstract

Purpose

We analyzed the effects of different combinations of organic soil amendments (OSAs) and chemical fertilizers on agrifood production, focusing on banana yields in China, the second-largest producer of bananas globally.

Design/methodology/approach

We computed these combinations by dividing the expenditures on OSAs by those on chemical fertilizers and called them OSA-CF ratios. First, we classified farmers based on quintiles of expenditures on chemical fertilizers. Then, we studied the association between OSA-CF ratios and banana yields for each quintile. We also considered an alternate specification in which farmers were grouped along the OSA-CF ratio continuum. The first group comprised farmers not using OSAs. Their OSA-CF ratio was zero. Farmers applying low, medium, and high OSA-CF ratios constituted groups two, three, and four; the groups were delineated based on the OSA-CF ratio tertiles, and the associations between tertiles of OSA-CF ratios and banana yields for each quintile were analyzed. The data used in this study were collected by surveying 616 households in three major banana-producing provinces (Guangdong, Hainan, and Yunnan) of China. Standard linear regressions and the two-stage predictor substitution method were employed to complete the analysis.

Findings

There were variations in the effects of OSA-CF ratios on banana yields obtained by farmers iifferent quintiles. For the first and second quintiles, low, medium, and high OSA-CF ratios improved banana yields relative to not using OSAs. For farmers in the first quintile using only chemical fertilizers, applying a low OSA-CF ratio was associated with an improvement of 792 kg/mu in banana yields. For their counterparts in the second quintile, the same transition was associated with a gain of 534 kg/mu. For the fifth quintile, comprising farmers spending 320 yuan/mu or more on chemical fertilizers, applying a high OSA-CF ratio instead of using only chemical fertilizers was associated with a 401 kg/mu decline in banana yields. Even so, for this group, no differences were observed between the yields of farmers not applying OSAs and those using low and medium OSA-CF ratios.

Practical implications

Banana farmers in southern China, using only chemical fertilizers, can improve yields by combining them with OSAs if their chemical fertilizer expenditures are less than 66.67 yuan/mu. Those using only chemical fertilizers and spending between 68 yuan/mu and 300 yuan/mu on them can maintain yields by applying OSAs in conjunction with chemical fertilizers. However, yields may decline for farmers using only chemical fertilizers and spending 320 yuan/mu or more on them if they incorporate OSAs such that the OSA-CF ratio reaches 0.78 or higher. Overall, combining OSAs with chemical fertilizers can improve yields while attenuating the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers on the environment. Policymakers should inform farmers of these benefits and accelerate the transition to sustainable agriculture through educational and awareness programs.

Originality/value

Farmers apply OSAs such as organic fertilizers and farmyard manure to adjust and remedy soil nutrition to improve farm productivity. However, little is known about how combining OSAs with chemical fertilizers affects banana yields. This study provided the first attempt to explore the associations between OSA-CF ratios and banana yields using cross-sectional data on farming households.

Details

China Agricultural Economic Review, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-137X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 September 2023

Samiha Siddiqui, Sujood, Naseem Bano and Sheeba Hamid

Ukraine hosts thousands of international students for educational tourism, of which more than 18,000 Indian medical students were compelled to escape Ukraine under emergency…

Abstract

Purpose

Ukraine hosts thousands of international students for educational tourism, of which more than 18,000 Indian medical students were compelled to escape Ukraine under emergency conditions of war. This paper aims to examine their intention to return to Ukraine to complete their education based on an integrated theory of planned behaviour (TPB) framework with added constructs, i.e. risk perception, career anxiety, rescue and relief memory.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 26 February 2022 to 30 June 2022 in two phases and two modes. It was ensured that the respondents were strictly confined to Indian medical students who had travelled to Ukraine for educational tourism. SPSS 25 and AMOS 23.0 were used to analyse the data. The hypotheses proposed were statistically tested.

Findings

The analysis reveals that the extended TPB model resulted in a strong model and the empirical findings corroborate that the students’ attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and career anxiety significantly and positively influence the students’ revisit intention (RI) while risk perception and rescue and relief memory have a negative influence on the RI.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides timely insights and implications to the Ukrainian tourism industry, particularly educational tourism business and medical institutions under the present turmoil, which can also act as blueprint research for destinations with a similar unstable political background.

Originality/value

The primary value of this research work is that it provides an understanding of the intention of medical students (educational tourists) towards revisiting the war-hit destination of Ukraine.

Details

International Journal of Tourism Cities, vol. 10 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-5607

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 September 2024

Jiaqing Shen, Xu Bai, Xiaoguang Tu and Jianhua Liu

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), known for their exceptional flexibility and maneuverability, have become an integral part of mobile edge computing systems in edge networks. This…

Abstract

Purpose

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), known for their exceptional flexibility and maneuverability, have become an integral part of mobile edge computing systems in edge networks. This paper aims to minimize system costs within a communication cycle. To this end, this paper has developed a model for task offloading in UAV-assisted edge networks under dynamic channel conditions. This study seeks to efficiently execute task offloading while satisfying UAV energy constraints, and validates the effectiveness of the proposed method through performance comparisons with other similar algorithms.

Design/methodology/approach

To address this issue, this paper proposes a task offloading and trajectory optimization algorithm using deep deterministic policy gradient, which jointly optimizes Internet of Things (IoT) device scheduling, power distribution, task offloading and UAV flight trajectory to minimize system costs.

Findings

The analysis of simulation results indicates that this algorithm achieves lower redundancy compared to others, along with reductions in task size by 22.8%, flight time by 34.5%, number of IoT devices by 11.8%, UAV computing power by 25.35% and the required cycle for per-bit tasks by 33.6%.

Originality/value

A multi-objective optimization problem is established under dynamic channel conditions, and the effectiveness of this approach is validated.

Details

International Journal of Web Information Systems, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1744-0084

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 April 2024

Rabail Tariq, Yifan Wang and Khawaja Fawad Latif

Through the lens of resource-based view (RBV), knowledge-based view (KBV) and DCV, this paper aims to investigate the relationship of entrepreneurial leadership (EL) on the…

Abstract

Purpose

Through the lens of resource-based view (RBV), knowledge-based view (KBV) and DCV, this paper aims to investigate the relationship of entrepreneurial leadership (EL) on the project success (PS) and further examines the mediating effect of knowledge infrastructure capability (KIC), knowledge-based dynamic capability (KBDC) and Big data analytic capability (BDAC).

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 467 employees working on project in software companies. The data were evaluated using SMART-PLS, a structural equation modeling (SEM) tool.

Findings

The study revealed a significant impact of EL on the PS, the study also found the significant mediation role of KIC, KBDC and BDAC on the EL and PS relationship.

Originality/value

The research gives valuable insight into the effective role of EL as a contemporary leadership style in project-based firms. Also, this research is one of the first to examine knowledge-oriented dynamic capabilities (DC) as a knowledge fulcrum in project execution. These DC have been empirically proven to facilitate EL in achieving PS and support the firm in competing in an uncertain environment.

Details

Journal of Enterprise Information Management, vol. 37 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0398

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 June 2024

Zhicai Yu, Lili Wang, Yiwei Shao, Yun Liu, Yuhang Zhao, Yi Qin, Yingzi Zhang and Hualing He

This study aims to fabricate a novel electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding composite aerogel with both thermal insulation and high temperature warning functions.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to fabricate a novel electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding composite aerogel with both thermal insulation and high temperature warning functions.

Design/methodology/approach

An emerging bio-based polypyrrole (PPy) gel/Fe3O4/calcium alginate (PFC) EMI shielding composite aerogel was prepared by freeze-drying and in situ polymerization method. First, Fe3O4/calcium alginate (CA) aerogel was obtained by freeze-drying the Fe3O4/CA mixture. Then, PPy/Fe3O4/CA was obtained by synthesizing PPy on the surface of CA/Fe3O4 aerogel through in situ polymerization. Finally, PPy/Fe3O4/CA was immersed in porphyrin solution (cross-linking agent) to get the final PFC EMI shielding composite aerogel.

Findings

Due to the matched impedance between Fe3O4 and PPy, the EMI shielding performance of PFC composite aerogel can reach up to −8 dB. In addition, the PFC EMI shielding composite aerogel also shows excellent self-extinguishing and thermal insulation properties. After leaving the flame, the burning PFC aerogel is quickly extinguished. When the PFC aerogel is placed on the heating plate at 230 °C, the temperature on the side of the aerogel away from the heating plate is only 90.3 °C after 5 min of heating. The electrical resistance of the PFC composite aerogel can be reduced from 3.62 × 104 O to 5 × 102 O to trigger the warning light after 3 s of exposure to the alcohol lamp flame. This reversible thermal resistance response characteristic can be used to give an early warning signal when the PFC encounters high temperature or flame.

Originality/value

This work provides a novel strategy for designing a multifunctional EMI shielding composite aerogel with repeatable high temperature warning performance. This PFC composite aerogel shows potential applications in the prevention of material combustion in high temperature electromagnetic environments.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 May 2024

Ravi Dandotiya, Arun Aggarwal and Ishani Sharma

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationships between tourists’ motivations, perception of tourism impacts, place attachment (PA) and loyalty toward Jallianwala Bagh…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationships between tourists’ motivations, perception of tourism impacts, place attachment (PA) and loyalty toward Jallianwala Bagh, a dark heritage site in Punjab, India.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method approach comprising qualitative and quantitative methods was used. Semi-structured interviews and the Delphi method helped generate a 34-item survey instrument. A sample size of 869 respondents was obtained, split into two subsets for exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

Seven out of nine hypotheses were supported. Motivated tourists perceived higher positive tourism impacts but lower negative tourism impacts. Higher perceptions of positive tourism impacts increased both PA and loyalty to the destination. Surprisingly, the perception of negative tourism impacts did not significantly affect tourist loyalty, contrary to some previous research.

Practical implications

This study informs stakeholders about tourists’ cognitive and affective responses at a dark tourism site, aiding in the planning and development of sustainable tourism strategies.

Social implications

By understanding the tourists’ motivations and perceptions, stakeholders can manage tourism impacts more effectively, ensuring that tourists’ experiences align with sustainable practices.

Originality/value

This study enriches the understanding of the tourists’ complex interactions with dark heritage sites. It introduces a new angle by examining how motivations, PA and perceptions of tourism impacts influence tourist loyalty, especially in the context of dark tourism.

Details

European Business Review, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-534X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 January 2024

Birna Dröfn Birgisdóttir, Sigrún Gunnarsdóttir and Marina Candi

Leadership is an essential contributor to employee creative self-efficacy, and past research suggests a positive relationship between servant leadership and creative…

Abstract

Purpose

Leadership is an essential contributor to employee creative self-efficacy, and past research suggests a positive relationship between servant leadership and creative self-efficacy. However, the relationship is complex and contingent upon moderating variables, and this research examines the moderating effect of role clarity by drawing on social exchange theory and social cognitive theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from a survey among 116 emergency room employees is used to test the research model using moderated ordinary least squares regression.

Findings

The results confirm a positive relationship between servant leadership and creative self-efficacy and suggest a U-shaped relationship between role clarity and creative self-efficacy. Furthermore, role clarity positively moderates the relationship between servant leadership and creative self-efficacy.

Research limitations/implications

The sample used for this research mainly consisted of highly educated employees within a specific setting. Future research is needed to study if the relationships found in this research can be generalized to other organizational settings.

Practical implications

This research suggests that leaders can support employees' creative self-efficacy through servant leadership, particularly when coupled with high role clarity.

Originality/value

Rapidly changing work environments are characterized by decreased role clarity, so attention is needed to its moderating role on the relationship between servant leadership and creative self-efficacy.

Details

Leadership & Organization Development Journal, vol. 45 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-7739

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 August 2024

Purvendu Sharma and Kapil Khandeparkar

This study investigates the antecedents that nudge followers of social media (SM) influencers into brand evangelism (BE). In doing so, we study how influencer-related attributes…

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates the antecedents that nudge followers of social media (SM) influencers into brand evangelism (BE). In doing so, we study how influencer-related attributes such as their homophily, trust, and popularity impact their followers’ BE. Additional interlinkages pertaining to popularity, content, warmth, and prestige are examined, impacting BE.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey obtained information about the focal constructs from 206 participants. Quantitative procedures using partial least square-based structural equation modeling were implemented to analyze the collected data and the proposed relationships.

Findings

The findings indicate homophily’s role in influencing trust, content, and prestige. BE is developed through warmth and content, whereas trust and prestige inspire warmth. Further, an influencer’s popularity impacts homophily and content. Lastly, the mediating role of warmth, homophile, trust, exciting content, and prestige advances the understanding of influencers and BE.

Research limitations/implications

We converge literature from branding, influencer marketing, and social psychology to understand consumers' facets of promoting BE on SM. This work is a primary attempt to interlink and tie these crucial research streams together.

Practical implications

The study offers managers helpful guidance on strategically assessing influencers' traits to build BE. Additionally, recommendations for tactically assessing and engaging influencers for brands are offered.

Originality/value

This is the first study to identify influencer-related parameters contributing to BE. Secondly, we study unique drivers such as homophily, trust, and warmth, which are important yet remain unexplored as far as BE in influencer marketing is concerned. Furthermore, this study also highlights the mediating role of key constructs that possess a potential to strengthen consumer brand relationships.

Details

Asia Pacific Journal of Marketing and Logistics, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-5855

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 September 2024

Nurul Liyana Mohd Kamil, Anas Mahmoud Salem Abukhalifa, Anis Eliyana and Andika Setia Pratama

The study sought to investigate how servant leadership affects employees' organisational citizenship and innovative behaviour by emphasising the mediation role of psychological…

Abstract

Purpose

The study sought to investigate how servant leadership affects employees' organisational citizenship and innovative behaviour by emphasising the mediation role of psychological empowerment. Relying on social exchange and self-determination theories, the present research examined the associations between these key elements in organisational dynamics.

Design/methodology/approach

Two waves of data were obtained from 325 supervisor-subordinate dyads working for 15 nonprofit organisations.

Findings

The results uncovered a significant and positive connection between leaders with a strong servant mindset and employees' organisational citizenship and innovative behaviour. Psychological empowerment was found to serve as a mediator in the anticipated correlations. Cultivating leaders with an enduring servant attitude was found to significantly boost employees' organisational citizenship and innovation, supported by improved psychological empowerment.

Originality/value

This study is distinctive as it fills a gap in research on the relationships between servant leadership, psychological empowerment and work outcomes in the global nonprofit sector, particularly in the Eastern context. This disposition, when given the opportunity, will contribute to strengthening working productivity.

Details

Leadership & Organization Development Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-7739

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 17 April 2024

Terhi Nissinen, Katja Upadyaya, Kirsti Lonka, Hiroyuki Toyama and Katariina Salmela-Aro

The purpose of this study was to explore school principals’ job crafting profiles during the prolonged COVID-19 crisis in 2021, and investigate profile differences regarding…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore school principals’ job crafting profiles during the prolonged COVID-19 crisis in 2021, and investigate profile differences regarding principals’ own perceived servant leadership, stress and work meaningfulness.

Design/methodology/approach

Using latent profile analysis (LPA), two job crafting profiles were identified: (1) active crafters (55%) and (2) average crafters (45%). By auxiliary measurement-error-weighted-method (BCH), we examined whether and how job crafting profiles differed in terms of servant leadership, stress and work meaningfulness.

Findings

Active crafters reported higher than the overall mean level of approach-oriented job crafting (increasing job resources and demands), whereas average crafters reported an overall mean level of approach-oriented job crafting. Avoidance-oriented job crafting by decreasing hindering job demands did not differentiate the two profiles. Active crafters reported significantly higher servant leadership behavior, stress and work meaningfulness than average crafters.

Originality/value

Study findings provide new knowledge and reflect the implications that the unprecedented pandemic had for education. This study contributes to the existing literature within the scholarship of job crafting through empirical research during the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. For practitioners, these study findings reflect contextual constraints, organizational processes and culture, and leadership in workplaces.

Details

International Journal of Organization Theory & Behavior, vol. 27 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1093-4537

Keywords

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