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Article
Publication date: 12 January 2023

Kenneth See

The purpose of this paper is to examine the currently known techniques to tackle money laundering in Bitcoin mixers, and examine what gaps exist that would allow a criminal to get…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the currently known techniques to tackle money laundering in Bitcoin mixers, and examine what gaps exist that would allow a criminal to get away with laundering Bitcoin obtained through illicit activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper first establishes the relevant properties of Bitcoin, how transactions occur over the Bitcoin network and then introduces the Bitcoin transaction graph as an important data structure for any analysis of Bitcoin transactions. Next, the paper outlines how Bitcoin mixing works, along with the relevant properties of mixers that would be relevant for money laundering. The paper then assesses the known methods for identifying mixed transactions within the Bitcoin network, followed by an assessment on identifying money laundering activities on known mixed transactions.

Findings

This paper argues that there remains a gap for criminals to launder money through Bitcoin mixing services as known methods would unlikely be able to trace a tainted transaction that goes through a decentralized mixer that uses off-chain communication techniques to coordinate the mixing and charges randomized mixing fees.

Research limitations/implications

The study of known methods is restricted to literature published in the public domain. There are private organizations that are tackling similar problems, but their methods are not published and therefore cannot be included in this paper.

Originality/value

To best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first paper that performs a contemporaneous review on anti-money laundering in the context of Bitcoin mixing. This paper could assist regulators and policymakers in their understanding of Bitcoin mixers and provide guidance on where they should focus their resources to address the money laundering problem of Bitcoin mixing.

Details

Journal of Financial Crime, vol. 31 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-0790

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 December 2022

Kaifei Xu, Xin Bao and Lu Lu

The lockdown of schools to control the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has adversely affected elementary and secondary school students in China. However, little…

Abstract

Purpose

The lockdown of schools to control the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has adversely affected elementary and secondary school students in China. However, little evidence is available that documents their perceptions toward the use of e-learning under the pandemic context. This study aims to explore (1) the underlying determinants influencing the students' intentions to continue e-learning and (2) the role that the COVID-19 pandemic plays in this decision. This study extends the expectation–confirmation model (ECM) through a mixed-methods study.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a mixed-methods approach. Phase 1 draws conclusions and extracts significant elements related to e-learning during the pandemic by analyzing students' user reviews from platforms. Based on the findings, the authors identify the relevant variables and develop an extended ECM by integrating attitudes and the perceived threat of COVID-19. In Phase 2, the research model is empirically validated using data collected from 36,920 elementary and secondary school students in China. This study uses a mixed-methods approach. Phase 1 draws conclusions and extracts significant elements related to e-learning during the pandemic by analyzing students' user reviews from platforms. Based on the findings, the authors identify the relevant variables and develop an extended ECM by integrating attitudes and the perceived threat of COVID-19. In Phase 2, the research model is empirically validated using data collected from 36,920 elementary and secondary school students in China.

Findings

In Phase 1, the results reveal that students' most concern elements in the COVID-19 pandemic are user perceptions toward e-learning and threat perceptions of COVID-19. In Phase 2, the results reveal that perceived usefulness and attitude are the most significant factors in students' intention to continue. The perceived threat of COVID-19 indirectly influences their intention to continue.

Originality/value

The study extends the ECM with a mixed-methods study to understand students' perceptions toward e-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study can be helpful in related studies in the context of COVID-19-related diseases or other novel scenarios.

Details

Information Technology & People, vol. 37 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-3845

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 November 2023

Babak Taheri and Fevzi Okumus

Conducting mixed methods (MM) research is one of many ways to study a research topic in the hospitality and tourism domain. This paper aims to offer a synopsis and guidelines on…

Abstract

Purpose

Conducting mixed methods (MM) research is one of many ways to study a research topic in the hospitality and tourism domain. This paper aims to offer a synopsis and guidelines on the application of MM research design within hospitality and tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper summarizes the pivotal information on how to write high-quality MM research papers. In doing so, the paper draws on common practices and advice from previous books and articles as well as advice from the editor-in-chief and one of the associate editors of the International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management.

Findings

This study provides explanations, guidelines and examples of MM research design.

Research limitations/implications

It offers specific recommendations and examples of MM research design in the hospitality and tourism field. This study concludes with a discussion of common mistakes, useful tips and a framework for the self-assessment of MM research.

Originality/value

This is one of the few studies providing specific guidance and recommendations on designing MM research papers in hospitality and tourism studies.

Details

International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, vol. 36 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-6119

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 September 2023

Abubakar Sadiq Muhammad, Ibrahim Adeshola and Labaran Isiaku

Generation Z (Gen-Z), sometimes known as “digital natives”, represents the first generation to become immersed in digital communication. In a multicultural environment, this study…

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Abstract

Purpose

Generation Z (Gen-Z), sometimes known as “digital natives”, represents the first generation to become immersed in digital communication. In a multicultural environment, this study aims to explore which types of factors are most beneficial in connection with Gen-Z’s impulsive purchase behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts an exploratory sequential mixed-method design, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. In Study 1, focus group discussions are conducted to address “why” and “how” questions, whereas Study 2 uses a quantitative method to test the hypothetical model. The model is assessed using structural equation modelling. This study used the stimulus–organism–response (SOR) framework in the context of Instagram.

Findings

Building on Mehrabian and Russell’s (1974) concept and focus group discussions, Study 1 introduces a novel SOR model tailored to Instagram. In Study 2, the model is tested, and results confirm most hypotheses, except for three. Factors such as aesthetic appeal, scarcity promotions and discounted prices stimulate impulse buying behaviour in Gen-Z. Positive emotional responses evoked by these factors also influence impulse buying, whereas the impact of negative emotional responses is found to be insignificant.

Originality/value

This mixed-methods study enhances the theoretical understanding of Gen-Zers’ impulse buying behaviour by highlighting the influence of diverse independent variables. By using the SOR framework, it reveals the intricate emotional aspects impacting impulsive purchase decisions. The research provides new insights into online impulsive buying behaviour, particularly relevant to consumer psychology and behavioural economics among young collectivist consumers.

Content available
Article
Publication date: 9 January 2024

Jodi Brooke Patterson and Michelle Kimzey

The purpose of this paper is to determine the relationship between trait and situational empathy, and the effect of educational activities on empathy of nursing students towards…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the relationship between trait and situational empathy, and the effect of educational activities on empathy of nursing students towards people living with dementia.

Design/methodology/approach

This embedded mixed-methods study compared trait and situational empathy examined situational empathy pre/post didactic and experiential activities with nursing students and used qualitative data from focus group discussions to corroborate the quantitative data.

Findings

There was no significant difference between trait and situational empathy. Post intervention scores (situational) demonstrated improvements on empathic concern, shared affect, empathic imagination, helping motivation and cognitive empathy. Focus group discussions supported quantitative findings and also included distress.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include lack of generalizability, single group threats and exclusion of stakeholder input. Single group threats include absence of a control group, familiarity with the CSES from pre-test to post-test and reactive measurements, as the students were observed by faculty while completing the Dementia Live activity. The perspective of stakeholders would strengthen the impact of the results on implementation.

Practical implications

Information gleaned from this study can help inform administrators in education and in practice. CliftonStrengths assessment and Dementia Live simulation activities can be used for administrators, faculty and students in schools of nursing as well as administrators and health-care workers.

Social implications

Information from this study can impact those living with dementia as well as their caregivers.

Originality/value

Most studies involving health-care students and empathy do not delineate between trait and situational empathy. This study is unique in that it measured both and sought a relationship between the two. Determining one's personal attributes such as trait empathy, can help students capitalize on their strengths and ultimately enhance patient care.

Details

The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, vol. 19 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1755-6228

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 July 2023

Iffat Ali Aksar, Amira Firdaus, Jiankun Gong and Saadia Anwar Pasha

The unstoppable and exponential growth of social media use has given rise to concerns about the consequent effects on users. Among the major concerns are the psychological…

Abstract

Purpose

The unstoppable and exponential growth of social media use has given rise to concerns about the consequent effects on users. Among the major concerns are the psychological consequences, which have received considerable academic attention. The current mixed-methods research aims to examine women's social media use and its effects on their psychological well-being in a patriarchal culture, namely Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a mixed-method research methodology. The quantitative section collected data from 240 women and used structural equation modelling to test the proposed hypotheses. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the in-depth interviews with ten women.

Findings

The integration of the findings revealed increased use of social media by women and its beneficial effects (communication and socialisation, escapism and self-presentation), though qualitative findings revealed the cultural implications and obstacles that women face (online anonymity and digital asylum). The study calls attention to women's social media usage patterns and the resulting effects on women's psychological well-being in a low-income country with a patriarchal social structure.

Originality/value

Most research remains limited to Western societies and young populations. The situation is somewhat different in developing economies with traditionally preserved cultures compared to Western societies. This study uniquely examines the influence of social media on psychological well-being in a developing country with a special cultural context.

Details

Online Information Review, vol. 48 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1468-4527

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 January 2024

Ila Manuj, Michael Herburger and Saban Adana

While, supply chain resilience (SCRES) continues to be a dominant topic in both academic and business literature and has gained more attention recently, there is limited knowledge…

Abstract

Purpose

While, supply chain resilience (SCRES) continues to be a dominant topic in both academic and business literature and has gained more attention recently, there is limited knowledge on SCRES capabilities specific to business functions. The purpose of this paper is to identify and investigate capabilities shared between supply, operations and logistics that are most important for SCRES.

Design/methodology/approach

To address this gap, the authors followed a multi-method research approach. First, the authors used the grounded theory method to generate a theoretical framework based on interviews with 51 managers from five companies in automotive SCs. Next, the authors empirically validated the framework using a survey of 340 SC professionals from the manufacturing industry.

Findings

Five significant capabilities emerged from the qualitative study; all were significant in empirical validation. This research advances the knowledge of SCRES as it informs managerial decision-making by identifying capabilities common to supply, logistics and operations that impact SCRES.

Originality/value

This research advances the knowledge of SCRES as it informs managerial decision-making by identifying capabilities common to supply, logistics and operations that impact SCRES. In addition, the findings of this research help managers better allocate resources among significant capabilities.

Details

Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0885-8624

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 November 2023

Arunava Dalal, Subhajit Bhattacharya and Subrata Chattopadhyay

Crafts embody the history and heritage of their country of origin and can play an essential role in the country's socioeconomic development by providing significant job…

Abstract

Purpose

Crafts embody the history and heritage of their country of origin and can play an essential role in the country's socioeconomic development by providing significant job opportunities for the rural population. This article investigates the significant challenges that artisan entrepreneurs face when creating, communicating and selling handcrafted goods to potential customers in emerging economies. This study attempted to rate the impediments based on their severity using the voices of artisan entrepreneurs.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method approach combining qualitative and quantitative data analysis was followed to identify the leading causes of the artisans' pain points. In the first phase, empirical observations were gathered through focus group discussions with artisan entrepreneurs, and the identified factors were quantitatively ranked using the analytic hierarchy process in the second phase.

Findings

The mixed-method research assisted in identifying the primary constraints affecting the efficient and effective operation of the artisan-driven small handicraft business. This study identified six factors that were ranked based on the voices of artisan entrepreneurs during the survey, as barriers to effective handicraft marketing.

Originality/value

Few studies on the handcraft industry have sought to explore the issues faced by artisan businesses holistically. The voices of artisan entrepreneurs were gathered for this study to identify and rate the present obstacles influencing the functioning of small handicraft firms in emerging nations. Handicraft marketing will become more effective and efficient if these barriers are removed.

Details

Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, vol. 31 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1462-6004

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 December 2023

Rasha Kassem and Fotios Mitsakis

This paper examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and wellbeing of academic and professional Higher Education (HE) staff in the UK.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and wellbeing of academic and professional Higher Education (HE) staff in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method survey questionnaire was sent to almost 300 UK HE staff to secure qualitative and quantitative data to enable data triangulation.

Findings

The study found an adverse impact on academic and professional staff's mental health and wellbeing, further resulting in stress and anxiety. Several reasons for the increased stress and anxiety levels were identified, but social isolation and the increased workload were the most commonly reported. The most affected groups by the pandemic were females, younger staff, full-timers and those with disabilities or caring responsibilities.

Practical implications

This study offers a range of strategies to support staff's mental health and wellbeing; as such, it is of great interest to policymakers to inform their decisions of similar crisis events in the future. It also addresses some of the COVID-19 areas of research interest for the UK parliament.

Originality/value

The study's originality derives from exploring the pandemic's impact on UK HE staff's mental health and wellbeing by including professional staff's experiences alongside those of academics. It also expands the scant evidence concerning the pandemic's impact on HE staff in the UK.

Details

Employee Relations: The International Journal, vol. 46 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0142-5455

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 January 2024

Emmanuel Mogaji, Giampaolo Viglia, Pallavi Srivastava and Yogesh K. Dwivedi

The technology acceptance model (TAM) is a widely used framework explaining why users accept new technologies. Still, its relevance is questioned because of evolving consumer…

Abstract

Purpose

The technology acceptance model (TAM) is a widely used framework explaining why users accept new technologies. Still, its relevance is questioned because of evolving consumer behavior, demographics and technology. Contrary to a research paper or systematic literature review, the purpose of this critical reflection paper is to discuss TAM's relevance and limitations in hospitality and tourism research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a critical reflective approach, enabling a comprehensive review and synthesis of recent academic literature on TAM. The critical evaluation encompasses its historical trajectory, evolutionary growth, identified limitations and, more specifically, its relevance in the context of hospitality and tourism research.

Findings

TAM's limitations within the hospitality and tourism context revolve around its individual-centric perspective, limited scope, static nature, cultural applicability and reliance on self-reported measures.

Research limitations/implications

To optimize TAM's efficacy, the authors propose several strategic recommendations. These include embedding TAM within the specific context of the industry, delving into TAM-driven artificial intelligence adoption, integrating industry-specific factors, acknowledging cultural nuances and using comprehensive research methods, such as mixed methods approach. It is imperative for researchers to critically assess TAM's suitability for their studies and be open to exploring alternative models or methods that can adeptly navigate the distinctive dynamics of the industry.

Originality/value

This critical reflection paper prompts a profound exploration of technology adoption within the dynamic hospitality and tourism sector, makes insightful inquiries into TAM's future potential and presents recommendations.

Details

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

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 4000