bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metastasis of Renal Cell Carcinoma to the Mandible
Authors: Jung Sung-Young , Maeng Ji Youn , Lee HyunJong , Han Jeong Joon , Kim Soung Min , Myoung Hoon
Published: August 2022

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common tumor of the kidney. Although RCC often metastasizes to other organs, metastasis to the head and neck region is rare, and metastasis to the mandible is very unusual. Given the fact that metastasis of primary neoplasms is not always predictable, it is essential to rule out metastatic carcinoma in jaw lesions. We herein report a rare presentation of metastasis of RCC to the mandible, in which the metastatic lesion in the oral cavity was found first, followed by the primary lesion, in a 22-year-old girl who suffered from pain in the left temporomandibular joint on mouth opening and hypoesthesia of the left chin, left lower lip, and left lower gum.
Examination of drinking motives during the pandemic: mediating effects of drinking motives in the relationship between impulsivity and alcohol use
Authors: Dinc Linda , Marzetti Jemma
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Previous research have shown that individuals with high trait impulsivity are at high risk of engaging in problem alcohol use and that drinking motives differentially predicted alcohol use and problems. This study aimed to investigate whether these previously shown associations still existed during the global outbreak of the pandemic, COVID-19, which resulted in a long period of lockdown and raised concerns about the effects of alcohol.

Design/methodology/approach

The data was collected from 185 adults between ages of 18 and 35 during the lockdown period (November 20–May 21) through an online survey. Participants completed an impulsivity questionnaire, drinking motives and alcohol use measures.

Findings

The results revealed that enhancement and coping motives mediated the effects of positive and negative urgency, respectively, and lack of premeditation facet of impulsivity was directly linked to alcohol use. These findings are partially in line with the previous studies before the lockdown.

Research limitations/implications

Overall, individuals with particularly high urgency and premeditation maybe at high risk for problem alcohol use and may require tailored support for regulating emotions, particularly during stressful life events such as a global pandemic.

Practical implications

Findings may inform prevention and intervention strategies. Individuals with high trait urgency may benefit from more adaptive coping strategies such as learning specific emotion regulation strategies to minimise engaging in risk behaviours in stressful situations.

Originality/value

Findings suggest that traits positive and negative urgency are risk factors for alcohol use through enhancement and coping motives respectively, and these associations are particularly strong during stressful life events.
From curiosity to innovativeness: the mediating mechanisms of cultural intelligence and knowledge sharing behaviour
Authors: Chen Angela Shin-yih , Bian Min-dau , Nguyen Trung Kim , Chang Chien-Hua
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the effects of curiosity on expatriates' innovative work behaviour and job satisfaction in a cross-cultural setting, with the sequential mediating effects of cultural intelligence (CQ) and knowledge-sharing behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by distributing an online survey to 465 Taiwanese expatriates living and working abroad. Structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses via AMOS v.22.

Findings

The results indicate that curiosity is an antecedent of an individual's CQ and both CQ and knowledge-sharing behaviour are sequential mediators in the relationships between curiosity and innovative work behaviour and between curiosity and job satisfaction.

Originality/value

The study expands the existing body of research to analyse personal traits as meaningful factors that enhance CQ and the mechanisms of CQ and knowledge sharing behaviour in the relationship between curiosity and innovative work behaviour and between curiosity and job satisfaction. It offers novel empirical evidence for the important role of curiosity, CQ and knowledge-sharing behaviour in enhancing an individual's innovative work behaviour and job satisfaction in a cross-cultural setting.
Impact of internal governance mechanisms on tax aggressiveness: evidence from French firms listed on the CAC 40
Authors: Menchaoui Ines , Hssouna Chaima
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the relationship between a firm’s use of aggressive tax planning and board of directors (independence and size) and audit committee characteristics (independence and expertise).

Design/methodology/approach

This study used archival data from 35 non-financial firms’ French firms listed on the CAC 40 over a period of 5 years (2013–2018).

Findings

This study shows that measures of board size are negatively related to tax aggressiveness. A broader board helps reduce tax aggressiveness, as having more members can improve board performance. Indeed, more members can contribute to a better assessment of tax risks and detect risky tax strategies.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this study is the small sample. The authors limited the observations to 2018 because the corporate tax rate in France changed in 2019. Such a time window casts homogeneity on the current study. Examining universal registration documents, it has been noted that companies have only recently become interested in disclosure of tax risk.

Practical implications

Knowing the characteristics of the board and audit committees can give a signal to stakeholders about the potential risk bearing on aggressive tax planning. This study provides evidence that could help the board governance committees integrate the right profiles and to raise awareness among the members of the board of directors and the audit committee to play their role (monitoring function or advisory function) about tax risk management.

Originality/value

According to the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to provide empirical evidence regarding the effect of the board of directors and audit committee characteristics on tax aggressiveness.
Identifying the potential participation in natural disaster insurance: first attempt based on a national socio-economic survey in Indonesia
Authors: Oktora Siskarossa Ika , Wulansari Ika Yuni , Siagian Tiodora Hadumaon , Laksono Bagaskoro Cahyo , Sugiandewi Ni Nyoman Ria , Anindita Nabila
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to identify the regions with a high risk of natural disaster, estimate the proportion of households potentially participating in natural disaster insurance and analyze the relationship between disaster risk index and proportion of household potentially participating in natural disaster insurance.

Design/methodology/approach

Descriptive and quadrant analysis was applied on the 2019 Indonesia Disaster Risk Index (IRBI) scores and the 2019 National Socio-Economic Survey data.

Findings

The results showed there are only two categories of disaster risks in Indonesia based on IRBI categorization: “Medium” and “High.” Some districts in Aceh Province such as Simeuleu, Pidie Jaya and Banda Aceh City were observed to have a high proportion of households potentially participating in the natural disaster insurance while some in Jawa Tengah provinces have fairly low level even though they were categorized as high disaster-prone areas. Moreover, the quadrant analysis showed that 43 districts have high IRBI scores but low insurance participation rates with most discovered to be in Jawa Barat and Sumatera Selatan provinces.

Originality/value

Indonesia does not have a financial mitigation program up to the present time because almost all disaster resolutions are formulated based on emergency funds from the state budget even though it is important to use insurance schemes in all stages of disaster management. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first attempt to identify households potentially participating in natural disaster insurance through the National Socio-Economic Survey in Indonesia.
Conducting a PhD as a project: sharing insights from my doctoral journey
Authors: Brunet Maude
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The aims of this paper are to mobilize project management concepts in order to draw parallels with the doctoral project and to share the author’s experience and lessons learned.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on a qualitative inquiry using an autoethnographic approach.

Findings

This paper contributes a self-reflexive examination of the doctoral project experience that incites current and future doctoral students and early-career researchers to take advantage of opportunities that make the experience satisfying, lay the foundations of an academic career and help ensure the thesis is completed in a timely and orderly manner.

Originality/value

Examining the doctoral project through the lens of one of the highest standards in project management, developed by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this paper enables PhD students in project management and other fields of study to understand the basics of a project and take action to structure their doctoral journey in a way that enhances both their experience and chances of success.
Institutional distance and Chinese investment efficiency in Africa: a stochastic frontier analysis
Authors: Mohamued Elyas Abdulahi , Khan Muhammad Asif , Meyer Natanya , Popp József , Oláh Judit
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the efficiency effects of institutional distance on Chinese outward foreign direct investment (FDI) in Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilised the true fixed-effect stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) model. Data from 2003 to 2016 (14 years) were acquired from 42 targeted African countries, which are included in the analysis.

Findings

The results reveal that FDI flow efficiency can be maximised with a high institutional distance between China and African countries. Contrariwise, comparable institutional distance, measured by the rule of law, regulatory quality and government effectiveness between the host and home countries, reflected a significant positive impact for Chinese outward foreign direct investment (OFDIs), indicating Chinese MNEs can invest directly in a country with comparable institutional characteristics.

Originality/value

There have been limited exceptional studies that assessed the effect of institutional distance between emerging countries. However, none of these studies investigated the effect of institutional distance between China and Africa at a national level. Using the advantage of the SFA model, this study assesses the efficiency effects of institutional distance between the host and home country.
Waqf integrated income generating model (WIIGM) for enhancing sustainable development goals (SDGS) in Malaysia: an evaluation of behavioural intention
Authors: Ibrahim Siti Sara , Daud Dalila , Hidayah Khusnul , Shaharuddin Amir , Al-Amin Al-Amirul Mukmin
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine how beliefs and expectations on collaboration for investment, technology advancement and governance can lead to sustainable income generation that succeeds in influencing the community to accept the proposed Waqf integrated income generating model (WIIGM).

Design/methodology/approach

This study empirically examined the beliefs and expectations on the proposed WIIGM model, which was adapted from the theory of reasoned action (TRA). Data was collected from 366 respondents selected via convenience sampling. Questionnaires were distributed online, of which responses were then analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling for hypothesis testing. Ethical approval is also gathered before the data collection begins.

Findings

This study found that collaboration for investment and governance significantly contribute to sustainable income generation in waqf operations and management, which eventually results in the community’s trust and acceptance of the WIIGM model. Technology advancement also significantly influences sustainable income generation, which finally leads to the community's behavioural intention to participate in the WIIGIM model. Further studies on this variable may establish findings from other perspectives.

Practical implications

This paper is an original study that empirically examines the potential for a new waqf integrated income-generating model in building the trust of the community towards waqf institutions. This study is significantly important for practitioners and policymakers in evaluating the potential roles of waqf based on the belief and trust of the community.

Originality/value

This paper adds value to existing literature regarding the potential of a new waqf integrated income-generating model.
Enhanced gray wolf optimization for estimation of time difference of arrival in WSNs
Authors: E. Devika , A. Saravanan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Intelligent prediction of node localization in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is a major concern for researchers. The huge amount of data generated by modern sensor array systems required computationally efficient calibration techniques. This paper aims to improve localization accuracy by identifying obstacles in the optimization process and network scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method is used to incorporate distance estimation between nodes and packet transmission hop counts. This estimation is used in the proposed support vector machine (SVM) to find the network path using a time difference of arrival (TDoA)-based SVM. However, if the data set is noisy, SVM is prone to poor optimization, which leads to overlapping of target classes and the pathways through TDoA. The enhanced gray wolf optimization (EGWO) technique is introduced to eliminate overlapping target classes in the SVM.

Findings

The performance and efficacy of the model using existing TDoA methodologies are analyzed. The simulation results show that the proposed TDoA-EGWO achieves a higher rate of detection efficiency of 98% and control overhead of 97.8% and a better packet delivery ratio than other traditional methods.

Originality/value

The proposed method is successful in detecting the unknown position of the sensor node with a detection rate greater than that of other methods.
Prioritising enabling factors of Internet of things (IoT) adoption in digital supply chain
Authors: Samaranayake Premaratne , Laosirihongthong Tritos , Adebanjo Dotun , Boon-itt Sakun
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper explores the role of Internet of things (IoT) enabling factors in adopting digital supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

Analytical hierarchy process (AHP) was used to rank performance measures and prioritise the enabling factors. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to validate and support key research findings from the AHP analysis.

Findings

The results show that level of customer demand is the most important indicator in adopting IoT while the level of product/process flexibility is the least important. System integration and IoT infrastructure are the top two enabling factors in increasing the level of process stability, supply chain connectivity, and product/process flexibility, respectively. Furthermore, the study suggests that the enabling factors for IoT adoption are directly connected with organisational resources/technological capabilities that support the resource-based view theory. This research identified interdependencies between IoT enabling factors and key performance measures for IoT adoption success in managing the digital supply chain.

Practical implications

Supply chain managers can use the empirical findings of this study to prioritise IoT adoption, based on the relative importance of enabling factors and performance measures. The research findings are focused on broader supply chain practices of large companies rather than a specific industry and SMEs. Hence, any industry-specific adoption factors and SMEs were not evident from this study.

Originality/value

This research study empirically established priorities of enabling factors for IoT adoption, along with inter-dependencies among enabling factors as a basis for developing guidelines for IoT adoption.
Supply chain planning and innovation performance: the moderated mediation effect of IT usage
Authors: Liu Yutong , Kang Mingu , Kang Tae-Won , Du Jian
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The study aims to figure out the impact of supply chain planning (SCP) on innovation performance (IP), the mediating role of agreement on supply chain vision and goals (ASCVG), and the moderated effect of information technology (IT) use with buyers and suppliers.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on 265 pieces of data collected from global manufacturing companies, the authors tested the proposed hypothesis through regression analyses. Meanwhile, the plug-in of statistical software SPSS, PROCESS (Model 4 and 14) was used to examine the mediation and moderated mediation models.

Findings

The results reveal that ASCVG partially mediates the effect of SCP on IP. Furthermore, the indirect influence of SCP on IP is stronger when the extent of IT use with buyers is higher, while this indirect effect is not moderated by IT use with suppliers.

Originality/value

In this study, the authors investigated the combined effect of SCP, ASCVG, and IT use with external partners on IP, which provides theoretical and practical insights into the ways that manufacturing firms effectively use the SCP, ASCVG and IT use with external partners to heighten IP.
Understanding international users' library experience in the Digital Age – joining the behavioral and experiential aspects
Authors: Fu Yaming , Lomas Elizabeth , Inskip Charles , Bunn Jenny
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe, analyze and understand international users' library experience in the Digital Age in order to inform library service design and ensure it provides an inclusive environment. In this study, the behavioral and experiential aspects of user library experience are merged to develop essential interconnections between information behavior (IB) and user experience (UX) in the context of the academic library with the goal of constructing a more holistic understanding of ‘library experience.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was built on the concept “library experience” through analyzing its essential components of IB and UX. It was developed through findings from mixed methods research, consisting of the quantitative investigation from a library log analysis, and qualitative investigations via cognitive mapping exercises and semi-structured interviews, both targeted on the largest single group of international students in United Kingdom – international Chinese students.

Findings

The findings demonstrated the complexity and multilayered characteristics of international Chinese students' library context, and three unique contexts emerged from the data shaping their library experience. Building on the previous findings on the connections between IB and UX, the work attempted to redefine “library experience” by joining both behavioral and experiential aspects. It is found that the key components of cultural library experience are the multilayered context, cultural group's perception needs, sense-making process and subjective evaluations.

Originality/value

This study joins the behavioral and experiential perspectives together to explore library experience in a more holistic way and proposes a systematic structure to understand and analyze library experience, especially that of international users in a cross-cultural context, which, in turn, will better serve their information needs and inform the design of a more equal and inclusive library system.
Harmonizing multi-dimensional events that characterize tech start-up emergence in emerging economies: a systematic review
Authors: Ajah Emmanuel Okoro , Ononiwu Chidi , Nche Charles
Published: August 2022

Purpose

In pursuit of socio-economic growth, scholars and policymakers in emerging economies continues to show interest in understanding technology-based start-up (i.e. tech start-up) emergence, to help mitigate persistent failure experienced during commercialization. Howbeit, some scholars lamented that extant studies that investigated tech start-up emergence are mostly fragmented, because they focus on specific event/sub-process in tech start-up gestation. Thus, this study aims to conduct a systematic literature review to discover, harmonize and develop a framework that describes the interaction among varying dimensions of events/sub-processes that characterizes tech start-up emergence in an emerging economy.

Design/methodology/approach

To conduct this study, the authors engaged a concept-centric systematic literature review. Having developed a search protocol, the authors searched through information systems database, and other relevant discipline databases, to select relevant articles for review.

Findings

The systematic review revealed various dimensions of events (i.e. opportunity discovery and selection, team formation and domain consensus, bootstrapping and the development of minimum viable product and market experimentation feedback) that are critical to tech start-up emergence. Most prior studies are isolated, as they focus their investigation on specific event. Thus, from this review, the authors developed a framework harmonizing various dimensions of events characterizing emergence of a viable tech start-up.

Originality/value

The researchers conducted this study in response to lingering call for harmonized study that provides in-depth description of how different dimensions of events interact and characterize tech start-up emergence. Consequently, the study resulted in a descriptive framework. Furthermore, the findings highlight some practical implications and proposes new study directions as future research agenda for scholars interested in tech start-up emergence.
Exploring the application of analytics in supply chain during COVID-19 pandemic: a review and future research agenda
Authors: Shrivastav Santosh Kumar
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to comprehend the application of analytics in the supply chain during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis and identify the emerging themes.

Design/methodology/approach

The author downloaded a list of research articles on the application of analytics to the supply chain from SCOPUS, conducted a systematic literature review for exploratory analysis and proposed a framework. Notably, the author used the topic modeling technique to identify research themes published during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis and thereby underscore some future research directions.

Findings

The author found that artificial intelligence, machine learning, internet of thing and blockchain are trending topics. Additionally, the author identified five themes by topic modeling, including the theme “Social Media information in Supply chain.”

Research limitations/implications

The results were derived from a data set extracted from SCOPUS. Thus, the author excluded all studies not listed in SCOPUS from the analysis. Future research with articles indexed in other databases should be investigated to get a more holistic perspective of specific themes.

Practical implications

This study provides a deeper understanding and proposes a framework for applications of analytics in the supply chain that researchers could use for future research and industry practitioners to implement in their organizations to make a more sustainable and resilient supply chain.

Originality/value

This study provides exploratory information from published articles on the use of analytics in the supply chain during the COVID-19 crisis and generates themes that help understand the emerging and underpinned area of research.
Pro-environmental purchase intentions in a low-involvement context: the role of myopia and apathy
Authors: Coşkun Ayşen , Polonsky Michael , Vocino Andrea
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To achieve the UN’s 2030 agenda, consumers will need to behave more responsibly and make less environmentally harmful purchases. This study aims to investigate the antecedents of consumers’ pro-environmental purchase intentions based on a range of motivating (i.e. attitudes, locus of control) and inhibiting factors (i.e. apathy and myopia) for a low-involvement product. It also tests the moderating effect of the greenness of a low-involvement product (green vs nongreen) on the consumer’s pro-environmental purchase intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

An online panel survey of 679 Turkish consumers was used. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The results suggest that while inhibiting factors (i.e. apathy and myopia) may not directly impede such purchase intentions, they could prevent consumers from considering the environmental characteristics of low-involvement products.

Practical implications

The insights are expected to assist marketers and policymakers to understand consumer psychological mechanisms when encouraging and promoting pro-environmental behavior in the context of low-involvement purchases, enhancing consumers contributing to the 2030 objectives.

Originality/value

This study examines the role of inhibiting factors behind the purchase of low-involvement goods. It also tests the moderating effect of the greenness of a low-involvement product on pro-environmental purchase intentions.
Objectives of Islamic banking, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty: empirical evidence from South Africa
Authors: Moosa Riyad , Kashiramka Smita
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between the objectives of Islamic banking, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty in the South African context. Diving deep, this study also explores the relationship between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used, resulting in 163 respondents participating in this study. The data was collected using an online survey and analysed using a structural equation model based on the partial least squares method.

Findings

The results indicate that the construct related to the objectives of Islamic banking influences both customer satisfaction and customer loyalty. In addition, customer satisfaction is also found to influence a customer’s loyalty to the Islamic bank.

Originality/value

In South Africa, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first of its kind; thus, the results provide context-specific insights into the extant literature on Islamic banking for Muslims residing in a non-Muslim majority country.
Does capital flight undermine growth: a case study of Pakistan
Authors: Bashir Malik Fahim , Khan Taimur , Bin Tariq Yasir , Akram Muhammad
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to estimate the magnitude of capital flight from Pakistan. Furthermore, it analyzes the impact of capital flight on the economic growth of Pakistan in the short and long run.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the World Bank’s residual method to estimate the magnitude of capital flight from Pakistan during 1976–2018. This study used the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to estimate the effect of capital flight on the economic growth of Pakistan.

Findings

ARDL results revealed a negative and statistically significant relationship between different measures of capital flight and economic growth in the long run. However, this relationship is not statistically significant in the short run. After correction for external borrowing and trade misinvoicing, this study finds that the total capital flight from Pakistan during the study period amounted to US$333bn (in 2010 dollars). With accrued interest earnings, the stock of capital amounted to US$124,768bn, significantly higher than the accumulated stock of long-term debt, which amounted to US$1,231bn during the study period indicating that Pakistan faces a severe challenge of capital flight.

Originality/value

This study calculates the magnitude of capital flight from Pakistan for the first time. Furthermore, this study also calculates the magnitude of capital flight for military and democratic regimes. This study suggests many policy proposals to deal with the challenge of capital flight.
Transferring artificial intelligence practices between collaborative robotics and autonomous driving
Authors: Zorman Milan , Žlahtič Bojan , Stradovnik Saša , Hace Aleš
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Collaborative robotics and autonomous driving are fairly new disciplines, still with a long way to go to achieve goals, set by the research community, manufacturers and users. For technologies like collaborative robotics and autonomous driving, which focus on closing the gap between humans and machines, the physical, psychological and emotional needs of human individuals becoming increasingly important in order to ensure effective and safe human–machine interaction. The authors' goal was to conceptualize ways to combine experience from both fields and transfer artificial intelligence knowledge from one to another. By identifying transferable meta-knowledge, the authors will increase quality of artificial intelligence applications and raise safety and contextual awareness for users and environment in both fields.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the authors presented autonomous driving and collaborative robotics and autonomous driving and collaborative robotics' connection to artificial intelligence. The authors continued with advantages and challenges of both fields and identified potential topics for transferrable practices. Topics were divided into three time slots according to expected research timeline.

Findings

The identified research opportunities seem manageable in the presented timeline. The authors' expectation was that autonomous driving and collaborative robotics will start moving closer in the following years and even merging in some areas like driverless and humanless transport and logistics.

Originality/value

The authors' findings confirm the latest trends in autonomous driving and collaborative robotics and expand them into new research and collaboration opportunities for the next few years. The authors' research proposal focuses on those that should have the most positive impact to safety, complement, optimize and evolve human capabilities and increase productivity in line with social expectations. Transferring meta-knowledge between fields will increase progress and, in some cases, cut some shortcuts in achieving the aforementioned goals.
Covid-19 impact on Latin and Asian stock markets
Authors: Abdelkafi Ines , Ben Romdhane Youssra , Loukil Sahar , Zaarour Fatma
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the dynamic relationship between 19 pandemic and government actions, such as governmental response index and economic support packages.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a panel dataset of 10 American and Latin countries for the period spanning from January 2020 to April 2021 to analyze the effect of government actions on stock market returns. The authors provide robust test results that improve the understanding of the impact of the pandemic on stock market indices through the break-up structure method and the new measure of Covid-19 extracted from Narayan et al. (2021) study.

Findings

Empirical results show the harmful effect of the corona virus on stock prices, hence the risk adverse behavior of investors. On the other hand, the quantitative approach reveals that the positive impact of government actions is degraded during Covid-19.

Originality/value

This article highlight that government actions may be effective in reducing new infections but could generate perverse economic impact through increasing uncertainty. The authors conclude that the adjustment of macroeconomic factors and the integration of financial news improve the forecasting performance of the model based on health news.
Synthesis and properties of a new halogen-free flame-retardant epoxy resin flame retardant
Authors: Wu Yushuang , Long Jiapeng , Liang Bing , Yanan Yan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to study a new halogen-free fame-retardant curing agent 1-aminoethylidenediphosphonate (AAEDP).

Design/methodology/approach

The AAEDP was synthesized by phosphoric acid, acetonitrile and ammonia. The chemical structures of AAEDP were characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) would study the thermal properties and the char residues of AAEDP/EP. The thermal stability, mechanical and flame properties and morphology for the char layer of composite materials were separately investigated using TGA, tensile and charpy impact tests, limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL-94 HB flammability standard (UL-94) and SEM.

Findings

The results showed that the AAEDP had been prepared successfully. When the intumescent flame retardant was added into the EP, the LOI of composite material was improved.

Research limitations/implications

The AAEDP can be prepared successfully and can improve the flame resistance of composite material.

Practical implications

The AAEDP has excellent flame-retardant properties and produce no toxic fumes when burnt in case of fire.

Originality/value

The results showed that the phosphorus content of AAEDP was 2.958 Wt.%; the impact and tensile strength of the composite material were 6.417 kJ m−2 and 38.0 MPa, respectively; and the LOI and UL-94 were 29.7% and V-0 ranking, respectively. The TGA results indicated that the carbon residue ratio can be increased by 1000°C in air. The denser and more uniform structure of residual carbon prevents heat transfer and diffusion, restricts the production of combustible gas and reduces the rate of heat release.
Consumer perceptions and concerns regarding aesthetic attributes of textile-based assistive devices: a qualitative analysis of online retail product reviews
Authors: Nartker Kate , Annett-Hitchcock Kate , Hoque S.M. Azizul
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to examine consumer perceptions of aesthetic attributes of textile-based assistive devices (ADs) and the language used by consumers to express those perceptions and concerns. Previous investigations of user feedback for ADs have largely focused on functional attributes rather than aesthetics.

Design/methodology/approach

An interpretivist research philosophy was selected to investigate the meaning behind consumer perceptions and to understand their viewpoints on the aesthetic dimensions of ADs. Using product reviews for two ADs sold on Amazon.com as data, the researchers conducted qualitative data analysis through coding and interpretation of meanings behind reviews to determine consumers’ perceptions related to their ADs.

Findings

The authors identified consumer concerns linking to aesthetics evidenced as a multisensory integration of visual, tactile and olfactory cues. Consumer-preferred language used to address aesthetic preferences was found to supplement the literature. Aesthetic considerations were found to be impactful on avoiding stigma and encouraging or discouraging continued use of the devices.

Practical implications

Findings may contribute to the development of textile-based ADs with improved aesthetics to enhance user experiences. New ways of using consumer language to interpret user needs may assist in future research and design practice for consumer products.

Originality/value

The use of consumer product reviews as a rich source of user data is discussed in this paper. As previous research on assistive technology has largely focused on functionality, results of this analysis offer insight into consumers’ aesthetic judgments related to ADs and bring a sensory perspective to the research area.
Development of 3D printers for concrete structures: mix proportion design approach and laboratory testing
Authors: Pham Loan Thi , Nguyen Thu , Trinh Thanh , Nguyen Anh , Do Quang , Bui Bien , Xiao Jianzhuang
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study deals with three major topics: (1) the developed generations of 3D concrete printers, (2) the mix design approach for cement-based materials and (3) laboratory testing.

Design/methodology/approach

The big question is how to approach and follow the trend of 3D concrete printing technology with limited conditions such as printers, technology issues and budget. Therefore, this research focused on dealing with prominent issues, including printing equipment, mixed proportion design approaches and laboratory testing methods will be presented and analyzed.

Findings

The details of three printing equipment, including a printhead, a small-scale 3D printer, a 3D concrete printer and the printing process related to Simplify and Mach3 software, will be revealed. Secondly, the classification and efficient process will be given according to the mixture proportion design method proposed. Thirdly, laboratory testing will be conducted, including extrudability, buildability and printability. Finally, some highlight conclusions are given based on the appearance and quality of the samples printed.

Research limitations/implications

Research has been carried out with cement-based materials and 3D concrete printer which adopted the screw extruders.

Practical implications

Mix design proportion method via coefficient and slump value proposed by the authors is a relatively effective and convenient method; the rheological properties, printing process and geometry of a sample are the most significant factors that decide the success of the printing work.

Social implications

Additive manufacturing, widely known as 3D printing, has recently drawn the attention of researchers worldwide for a few decades. Thanks to its capability to transform a drawing into an object, the idea of 3D printing has also attracted the attention of engineers, architects and investors.

Originality/value

(1) Mix design proportion via coefficient and slump value proposed by the authors is a relatively effective and convenient method that can be implemented simply at the laboratory or the site. (2) The ranges of coefficients by weight of the water, sand and PP fibers to binder are (0.27–0.3), (0.6–1.0) and around 0.3, respectively. The maximum sand size was smaller than 2.5 mm, and the small amount of PP fibers enhanced the quality and significantly reduced the printed samples' shrinkage. (3) The printability is affected by mix proportion and the relationship between nozzle printing speed parameter and extrusion speed of motor turning. (4) The chosen layer height recommended smaller than 0.83 times nozzle diameter is reasonable and improves adhesions and buildability. (5) The printing open time of the concrete mixture of (12–15) minutes is a barrel to promote 3D concrete printing technology and needs improvement.
Mechanical testing and characterization of tin–zinc–antimony–lanthanum lead-free solders produced using mechanical alloying and furnace melting techniques
Authors: D. Arthur Jebastine Sunderraj , D. Ananthapadmanaban , Kathiresan Arun Vasantha Geethan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of two different weight percentages of lanthanum on tin–zinc–antimony solder alloys. Two manufacturing techniques were used: the furnace melting method (FMM) and ball milling method (BMM). The alloys were characterized and mechanically tested.

Design/methodology/approach

Tin–zinc–antimony alloys with 0.5 and 1% lanthanum were prepared by FMM and BMM for 25, 30 and 35 h. The tensile, shear, hardness, wear and corrosion properties were characterized using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction.

Findings

Ball-milled samples were harder and more resistant to wear than furnace-melted samples. Corrosion tests showed that ball-milled samples of both the 0.5 and 1% lanthanum tin-based solders showed higher corrosion than furnace-melted samples. The ball-milled samples exhibited a uniform particle distribution. The ductility of the milled samples was significantly higher than that of the furnace-melted ones. There was strong evidence of the presence of nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction revealed some amorphous phases, which have not been previously reported.

Originality/value

The quality of solder alloys prepared by FMM and BMM was compared. This comparison was not made in previous studies. In addition to the hardness, the wear and corrosion resistances were measured, which have not been previously reported. There seems to be evidence of the presence of nanoparticles in the solder, as suggested by the increase in the elongation. Tensile, elongation and shear tests were performed, and a theory was provided for the results obtained.
Understanding the role of transparency, participation, and collaboration for achieving open digital government goals in Oman
Authors: Al Sulaimani Ahmed Hamed Abdullah , Ozuem Wilson
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to understand the roles of transparency, participation and collaboration in pursuit of achieving open digital government (OPG) goals in Oman. The study explores the extent to which these interactive digital apps and other initiatives can enhance digital transparency, collaboration and public participation to achieve ODG goals.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has used triangulation of qualitative method by selecting semi-structured interviews, focus group interviews and public user reviews of ODG apps.

Findings

This research found that collaboration among institutions and transparency of actions and operations besides citizens’ participation in ODG enhance the trust to use ODG services. Therefore, a research framework is devised for synthesizing the significance of public participation and transparency where the aim is to facilitate collaboration among institutions with the purpose to achieve ODG goals. Such collaboration is highly useful for enhancing the ODG public value chain as well as achieving the ODG goals.

Research limitations/implications

This study has recommended practical implications for public institutions and Information technology developers to work collaboratively with the purpose to address the issues of interactivity and compatibility in ODG apps that can enhance public participation and improve the public value chain.

Originality/value

This study has used the institutional theoretical support to build a research framework that can extend the understanding that what factors can play role to achieve ODG goals.
Opening the path of gastro-tourism cluster development: the case of Cyprus
Authors: Garanti Zanete , Stylianou Christiana
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to identify stakeholders and dimensions of the gastro-tourism cluster in Cyprus in order to facilitate the creation of a network of unique culinary experiences for tourists.

Design/methodology/approach

The qualitative research approach was undertaken through interaction with academics, researchers, and public and private sector stakeholders during the Gastro-Tourism Conference, which was organized by the University of Nicosia, Cyprus, in May 2022. The study draws on data from non-structured interviews conducted with tourism industry professionals and stakeholders.

Findings

Four stakeholders of the gastro-tourism cluster were identified: enterprises from the gastro sector, supportive enterprises and industries, public institutions, and other institutions. Geographic proximity and knowledge sharing are the main dimensions affecting the gastro-tourism cluster in Cyprus.

Originality/value

The authors identified stakeholders in and dimensions of the gastro-tourism cluster in Cyprus, each of which plays a significant role in creating culinary experiences for visitors and ensuring more sustainable and less seasonal development of the island as a destination.
Coordinating Activity Interdependencies in the Contemporary Economy: The Principle of Distributed Control
Authors: Harrison Debbie , Munksgaard Kristin B. , Prenkert Frans
Published: August 2022

This study addresses the lack of knowledge about inter‐organizational activity coordination in the contemporary economy. Existing understanding of economic coordination within inter‐organizational research is based on the three modes of organization, market, and cooperative relationship. We extend the framework of Richardson that analyses specialization and complementarity within the industrial division of labour in terms of these three coordination modes. We propose a novel mode of coordinating economic activity, namely multi‐actor arrangements, which is based on the coordination of very dissimilar yet complementary activities, grounded in the principle of distributed control. This fourth mode is necessary to explain contemporary phenomena such as the circular economy and blockchain because these involve interdependencies that were previously framed as too different or unrelated to coordinate. The extension is important because it changes our understanding of mixed‐mode coordination. Our proposed fourth mode enables the conceptualization of how activity interdependencies are coordinated within inter‐organizational relationships and networks undergoing transformation.
Digital health: A sociomaterial approach
Authors: Marent Benjamin , Henwood Flis
Published: August 2022

The notion ofdigital healthoften remains an empty signifier, employed strategically for a vast array of demands to attract investments and legitimise reforms. Rather scarce are attempts to develop digital health towards an analytic notion that provides avenues for understanding the ongoing transformations in health care. This article develops a sociomaterial approach to understanding digital health, showing how digitalisation affords practices of health and medicine to cope with and utilise the combined and interrelated challenges of increases in quantification (data‐intensive medicine), varieties of connectivity (telemedicine), and unprecedented modes of instantaneous calculation (algorithmic medicine). This enables an engagement with questions about what forms of knowledge, relationships and control are produced through different manifestations of digital health. The paper then sets out, in detail, three innovative strategies that can guide explorations and negotiations into the type of care we want to achieve through digital transformation. These strategies embed Karen Barad’s concept ofagential cutssuggesting that responsible cuts towards the materialisation of digital health require participatory efforts that recognise the affordances and the generativity of technology developments. Through the sociomaterial approach presented in this article, we aim to lay the foundations to reorient and sensitise innovation and care processes in order to create new possibilities and value‐centric approaches for promoting health in digital societies as opposed to promoting digital health per se.