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Article
Publication date: 31 July 2024

Mohammad Irfan, Aiqin Gao and Aiqin Hou

Reactive dyes are believed to have great potential for nylon dyeing, but these anionic dyes tend to rush toward the nylon at the beginning of the process, resulting in uneven…

Abstract

Purpose

Reactive dyes are believed to have great potential for nylon dyeing, but these anionic dyes tend to rush toward the nylon at the beginning of the process, resulting in uneven dyeing. Achieving uniformity gets even harder when the dyeing is performed under exposure to eco-friendly technique microwave irradiations. This study aims to achieve rapid and homogenous results by intermittent shaking and non-continuous exposure to microwave.

Design/methodology/approach

A set of reactive red dyes, based on the same chromophore and different substituents in the auxochrome part, was applied to the nylon fabric without any leveling agent. A series of experiments were designed to investigate the effect of different dye structures, exhaustion pH, liquor ratio, exhaustion time and fixation time to obtain an optimum recipe under the microwave dyeing technique.

Findings

Dyeing performance was characterized based on the color strength, exhaustion and fixation percentages and color fastness values. The characterization showed that better results can be achieved at a liquor ratio of 1:15 at exhaustion pH 2.7 which is also the isoelectric point of nylon, with 5.5 to 7 min of exhaustion and 6 to 8 min of fixation time for different dyes. Microwave dyed samples secured higher color strength values and provided better exhaustion and fixation than the conventional dye samples. Furthermore, the X-ray diffraction results verified that there was no considerable difference in the morphological structure of nylon with microwave exposure.

Originality/value

An applied technique is disclosed in this work to achieve uniform dyeing on nylon 66 with reactive dyes without any leveling agent under exposure to eco-friendly rapid heating microwave irradiations.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 February 2024

Rosli Said, Mardhiati Sulaimi, Rohayu Ab Majid, Ainoriza Mohd Aini, Olusegun Olaopin Olanrele and Omokolade Akinsomi

This study aims to address the critical need for innovative financing solutions in the global housing sector, focusing specifically on Malaysia’s distinct housing finance system…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to address the critical need for innovative financing solutions in the global housing sector, focusing specifically on Malaysia’s distinct housing finance system encompassing both conventional and Islamic loans. The primary objective is to develop a transformative housing finance model that addresses affordability challenges and reshapes the Malaysian housing landscape.

Design/methodology/approach

The study presents an alternate housing finance model for Malaysia, integrating lower monthly payments and reduced household debt. Key variables include house price appreciation rates, interest rates, initial guarantee fees and loan-to-value ratios. Inspired by the Help to Buy (HTB) scheme, the model aligns with proven global initiatives for enhanced affordability, balancing payment amounts, loan interest rates and acceptable price thresholds.

Findings

The study’s findings promise to address affordability disparities and reshape Malaysia’s housing finance landscape. The emphasis is on introducing a structured repayment plan that offers a sustainable path to homeownership, particularly for low-income families. Incorporating the future value adaptation concept, inspired by reverse mortgages and Islamic finance, enhances adaptability, ensuring long-term sustainability despite economic shifts.

Practical implications

The proposed model promotes widespread access to homeownership, offering practical solutions for policymakers to improve affordability, prompting adaptable risk management strategies for financial institutions and empowering potential homebuyers with increased flexibility.

Originality/value

The study introduces a transformative housing finance model for Malaysia, merging elements from reverse mortgages, Islamic finance and the HTB scheme, offering potential applicability to similar systems globally.

Details

International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8270

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 September 2024

Mohammad A.A. Zaid, Ayman Issa, Fitim Deari, Ploypailin Kijkasiwat and Vijay Kumar

This study aims to respond to the latest research calls to precisely revisit the nexus between corporate green innovation (CGI) and financial decisions through deeply…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to respond to the latest research calls to precisely revisit the nexus between corporate green innovation (CGI) and financial decisions through deeply investigating the mediating effect of corporate environmental performance measured by the effectiveness of emission reduction.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzes nonfinancial-listed firms on the Australian Securities Exchange from 2002 to 2019 using multiple regression analysis on a panel data set. Initially, different static panel data approaches were used. To account for the potential endogeneity issue and generate robust outcomes, the authors apply the one-step system generalized method of moment, two-stage least squares and lagged model approaches.

Findings

The results provide a clear indication that the practices of green innovation can favorably contribute to the level of environmental performance, which in turn affect the firm’s ability in opening the new financial doors and shape solid capital structure. In this context, the effective environmental performance fully mediates the nexus between CGI and capital structure of a firm. More importantly, the outcomes are robust and coherent across different estimation techniques.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in its utilization of mediation analysis to explore the relationship between CGI and a firm's financial structure. This approach distinguishes it from previous research by offering a thorough and nuanced understanding of how green innovation practices influence the financing decisions of a firm.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 August 2024

Aqsa Anjum and Mohammad Subhan

The study investigates the intention of adopting solar panels and incorporating renewable energy sources into the electrical mix, providing insightful information on the nuances…

Abstract

Purpose

The study investigates the intention of adopting solar panels and incorporating renewable energy sources into the electrical mix, providing insightful information on the nuances of this critical topic.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used online and offline surveys to gather information on rooftop solar panels from Indian homes. To get reliable findings, the collected responses were analyzed using structural equation modeling using Smart PLS version 3.5 and SPSS version 23.0.

Findings

The research examines sustainability difficulties, psychological issues and demographic considerations, yielding a variety of conclusions. Low compatibility and high perceived cost have a detrimental influence on adoption intentions, emphasizing the importance of integrating consumer perceptions with technology while addressing cost concerns. Conversely, relative advantage, awareness, environmental concern, facilitating conditions and observability positively influenced the adoption.

Practical implications

The study underscores the importance of highlighting benefits, raising awareness, providing necessary resources and showcasing visible instances of technology use. By revealing the connection between different factors, the study offers a roadmap for policymakers and stakeholders to accelerate the transition toward sustainable energy practices.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is one of the first to propose an integration of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the Diffusion of Innovations Theory (DOI) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), alongside various independent variables. The research offers a comprehensive perspective on factors that facilitate and obstruct the usage of solar energy.

Article
Publication date: 31 January 2025

Wan Masliza Wan Mohammad, Ennie Salina Roseli and Shaista Wasiuzzaman

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of resource use and environmental innovation on firms’ financial costs.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of resource use and environmental innovation on firms’ financial costs.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consists of 2,588 firm-year observations from 647 companies collected from Thomson Reuters over a five-year period (year 2014 to year 2018). The authors analyze the data using panel-corrected standard errors, which corrects heteroskedasticity issues and contemporaneous error in the data. Further, the authors adopt cluster analysis based on the year and industry. The authors also adopt the generalized method of moments and two-stage least squares regression to check for endogeneity issues and validate the findings.

Findings

The findings generally indicate that resource use is negatively associated with firms’ cost of capital. Firms’ engagement with operational activities improves savings in the usage of resources, but environmental innovation is found to be positively associated with the cost of capital. This may be attributable to higher capital investment, stringent risk assessment and third-party assurance associated with firms’ environmental innovation.

Research limitations/implications

The findings urge regulators, practitioners and stakeholders to engage in more dialogues to reduce the costs associated with environmental sustainability innovation. This may be in the form of new technologies, energy-saving products, waste recycling and green innovations. Government intervention via greater infrastructure, tax incentives and regulatory reform may support the growth of innovation in emerging market economies.

Practical implications

Efforts are needed to encourage a dynamic, innovative and entrepreneurial mindset among the people living in emerging countries. Also, government regulatory reform is imperative in encouraging innovations in the environmental, social and governance ecosystem.

Social implications

The effect on society would be in the form of a new product innovation that creates better living standards and environments for the communities.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the few studies that focuses on the impact of firms’ resource use and environmental innovativeness and its implications on business financial costs in both emerging and developed markets.

Details

Studies in Economics and Finance, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1086-7376

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 September 2024

Aamir Rashid, Rizwana Rasheed, Abdul Hafaz Ngah and Rob Kim Marjerison

Manufacturing capability is a crucial component of every nation’s economy and pharmaceuticals are frequently a significant part of the manufacturing sector. Pharmaceutical supply…

Abstract

Purpose

Manufacturing capability is a crucial component of every nation’s economy and pharmaceuticals are frequently a significant part of the manufacturing sector. Pharmaceutical supply chains are essential to health-care systems, contributing to living quality and shorter hospital stays. This study aims to examine the role of multiple integrations on business performance (BP) through supply chain flexibility (SCF) and supply chain agility (SCA).

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from 198 supply chain professionals in the pharmaceutical sector of the developing economy of Pakistan. The sample was collected based on a nonprobability purposive sampling approach. A five-point Likert-scale survey was used and analyzed with the PLS-SEM technique using SmartPLS 4.

Findings

This study found that process integration (PI) does not affect SCA, whereas relationship integration and measurement integration positively affect SCA. SCA positively impacts BP. In contrast, all integrations significantly influenced supply flexibility and BP except for PI. Finally, SCF significantly mediates the relationship between all integrations and BP.

Originality/value

This study examined the relationships of multiple integrations on BP, directly and indirectly, through SCF and agility. The theory of dynamic capabilities has been applied and extended to increase the comprehensiveness of the findings. A developing economy’s pharmaceutical industry supply chain was examined, producing empirical evidence of the results.

Details

Journal of Science and Technology Policy Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2053-4620

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 December 2024

Stephanie Bilderback and Mohammad Movahed

This study investigates healthcare administration students’ perspectives on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in fluid healthcare work environments, focusing on its…

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates healthcare administration students’ perspectives on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in fluid healthcare work environments, focusing on its potential impact on future healthcare practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The research utilizes a mixed-methods strategy, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to collect data from healthcare administration students at a mid-sized urban university. This comprehensive approach allows for an in-depth analysis of students’ understanding of, attitudes toward and expectations of AI in healthcare settings.

Findings

Results reveal that students have a nuanced understanding of AI’s capabilities to enhance healthcare operations and patient care, showcasing readiness to adopt these technologies. Nonetheless, there are significant concerns about job security and the depersonalization of care with the integration of AI. The study highlights the critical need for healthcare curricula to evolve to incorporate AI training that equips future professionals to use these technologies in increasingly flexible work settings.

Originality/value

This research offers new perspectives on how future healthcare professionals view AI integration within evolving work arrangements. It emphasized the need for educational institutions to update and adapt educational frameworks to prepare a workforce that can effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in the healthcare sector. This is particularly relevant in fluid work dynamics, where adaptability and responsiveness are key.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 23 August 2024

Vesa Korhonen, Tahani Aldahdouh, Vesna Holubek, Sanaa Abou-dagga and Nazmi Al-Masri

Student engagement evaluation is considered to be connected to many aspects of the management of higher education, but outside Western higher education, research and evaluation on…

Abstract

Purpose

Student engagement evaluation is considered to be connected to many aspects of the management of higher education, but outside Western higher education, research and evaluation on student engagement and experiences has been limited so far. Our study focuses on the underexplored aspects of Palestinian higher education with the aim of gaining an actionable understanding from the overall student engagement situation to enhance the management and development of local teaching and learning practices.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitatively oriented, sequential mixed-methods design was adopted. With the applied and validated engagement measurement we collected 946 engagement questionnaire responses from Palestinian university students. Quantitative data were analysed using structural equation modelling, K-means cluster analysis and chi-squared tests. Inductive and deductive thematic analysis was employed for the open answers.

Findings

With the three validated student engagement dimensions, the applied cluster analysis allowed three different engagement profile groups to be distinguished: strongly, moderately and loosely engaged. In the subsequent statistical and qualitative thematic analyses, these three engagement clusters differ in the degree to which they had a clear vision of a future profession or in their academic engagement with their studies. Moreover, qualitative analysis brought up many shared concerns regarding theoretically oriented studies and uncertain professional and career prospects in the Palestinian higher education context.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first attempts to develop tools for student engagement management in Palestinian higher education. The study findings are particularly significant for developing micro- and meso-level management practices in Palestinian higher education institutions.

Details

International Journal of Educational Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0951-354X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 February 2024

Mohammad O. Eriqat, Rateb J. Sweis and Ghaleb J. Sweis

This paper aims to identify and provide a theoretical explanation for the barriers that hinder the adoption of emerging technologies in the architecture, engineering and…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to identify and provide a theoretical explanation for the barriers that hinder the adoption of emerging technologies in the architecture, engineering and construction industry, irrespective of the company’s size, specialization or geographical location. In addition, the paper proposes potential areas for future research in this domain.

Design/methodology/approach

A list of barriers hindering the adoption of emerging technologies was identified and clarified using a systematic literature review of various scientific sources.

Findings

Twenty-five barriers were recognized and explained and some suggestions for future research studies were provided.

Research limitations/implications

The barriers related to a specific country or region or to a specific technology were excluded.

Originality/value

By providing a deeper comprehension of the barriers hindering the adoption of emerging technologies, this review is expected to encourage their adoption in the industry. Furthermore, it could prove valuable in devising effective strategies for the successful implementation of these technologies.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 January 2025

Sona Razaghi, Ali Mohammad Ahmadvand and Marzieh Samadi-Foroushani

Ensuring energy security and controlling the share of energy in climate change are the two main challenges of the energy sector in the path of a sustainable future. This study has…

Abstract

Purpose

Ensuring energy security and controlling the share of energy in climate change are the two main challenges of the energy sector in the path of a sustainable future. This study has designed the dynamic model of Iran’s electrical energy supply system based on the water-food-energy-climate change nexus in order to identify sustainable policies for the supply of electrical energy resources and adaptation to Iran’s climate change process.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, first, the system dynamics model was designed with the participation of policymakers and the supply and demand data of water-food-energy resources and the trend of climate change and economic growth in Iran. After validation, the model is simulated in the 30-year horizon (2020–2050), and according to the results of the Monte Carlo sensitivity analysis, Iran’s electric energy supply policies are based on four strategies, including (1) Electric energy supply based on electric energy supply management from non-renewable sources, (2) Development of electrical energy supply based on management of energy supply from renewable sources, (3) Electrical energy supply based on electrical energy demand management and (4) Electrical energy supply based on adaptation to climate changes. By identifying and applying the policies of each strategy separately, the model was tested and the results were compared.

Findings

Based on the implementation of the combination of selected policies in the model, the following policies have been proposed: 16% development of nuclear power plants, 18% reduction in the ratio of production of gas power plants to the total production of non-renewable power plants, and an increase in the production of combined cycle power plants through conversion of gas to combined cycle, energy aggregation and development of heat recovery systems in industrial units by 32%, a decrease of 5% Energy transmission and distribution losses, per capita reduction of energy consumption from 0.926 to the global average of 0.182 (MW) per year, management of water demand in the food sector by increasing irrigation efficiency to about 85%, a 27% increase in the area of land under the irrigation network, and reducing losses Food amounting to the global average of 0.9 m tons per year.

Originality/value

The proposed model is an application of system dynamics in the field of policymaking to ensure the security of electrical energy resources, taking into account the water-food-energy-climate changes nexus. The model is a valuable tool for policymakers in planning the sustainable management of resources in the path of adapting to climate change.

Details

Kybernetes, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0368-492X

Keywords

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