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1 – 10 of 15Kim Brown, Lara Sanderson, Rachel Spronken-Smith and Claire Cameron
This paper aims to understand the experiences of disabled doctoral students at one Aotearoa New Zealand University, identifying barriers to accessibility and meaningful…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to understand the experiences of disabled doctoral students at one Aotearoa New Zealand University, identifying barriers to accessibility and meaningful participation, and enabling practices.
Design/methodology/approach
This research was underpinned by the social model of disability and used an explanatory sequential mixed methods approach. A survey comprising closed and freeform questions was distributed to all doctoral students. From the 64 respondents, 12 also took part in an unstructured, narrative interview. Data were analysed using a combination of methods: descriptive statistics, thematic analysis and poetic inquiry.
Findings
Findings are presented mainly as data poetry. The poems centre on complexities faced by disabled doctoral students, and articulate challenges, enabling practices and possibilities for the future encountered by students in this study. Findings are additionally supported with quotes from narrative interviews, open-ended survey questions and descriptive data analysis.
Originality/value
The poetic inquiry approach gives voice to the collective experiences of disabled students. The poetic texts bear witness to the intersections of disability, impairment, chronic illness, neurodiversity and doctoral study, and the lives of students who navigate these intersections. These poems voice and seek to be lightning-rods for social change.
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Minglong Xu, Song Xue, Qionghua Wang, Shaoxiang He, Rui Deng, Zenong Li, Ying Zhang, Qiankun Li and Rongchao Li
This study aims to improve the stability and obstacle surmounting ability of the traditional wall-climbing robot on the surface of the ship, a wheel-track composite magnetic…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to improve the stability and obstacle surmounting ability of the traditional wall-climbing robot on the surface of the ship, a wheel-track composite magnetic adsorption wall-climbing robot is proposed in this paper.
Design/methodology/approach
The robot adopts a front and rear obstacle-crossing mechanism to achieve a smooth crossover. The robot is composed of two passive obstacle-crossing mechanisms and a frame, which is composed of two obstacle-crossing magnetic wheels and a set of tracks. The obstacle-crossing is realized by the telescopic expansion of the obstacle-crossing mechanism. Three static failure models are established to determine the minimum adsorption force for the robot to achieve stable motion. The Halbach array is used to construct the track magnetic circuit, and the influence of gap, contact area and magnet thickness on the adsorption force is analyzed by parameter simulation.
Findings
The prototype was designed and manufactured by the authors for static failure and obstacle crossing tests. The prototype test results show that the robot can cross the obstacle of 10 mm height under the condition of 20 kg load.
Originality/value
A new structure of wall-climbing robot is proposed and verified. According to the test results, the wall-climbing robot can stably climb over the obstacle of 10 mm height under the condition of 20 kg load, which provides a new idea for future robot design.
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Dg Nooremah Ag Said, Rose Irnawaty Ibrahim, Azman Ab Rahman and Hafidzi Hamdan
This paper aims to view the tradition of the Prophet in zakat payment, especially the attributed measurements, and adapt these measures to current zakat measurement practices.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to view the tradition of the Prophet in zakat payment, especially the attributed measurements, and adapt these measures to current zakat measurement practices.
Design/methodology/approach
This study is designed with an exploratory sequential mixed method where qualitative data were collected from historical archives and also from the measurement of available ṣāʿ صاع and mud_ مد. These standard measures were collected from Malaysia and other Muslim countries and calibrated at the National Measurement Standards Laboratory (currently carried out by the National Metrology Institute of Malaysia). The volume of the ṣāʿ were tabulated, charted, analyzed and determined.
Findings
Prophet Muḥammad ordered for zakat al-fiṭr زكاة الفطر to measure the crops using ṣāʿ (gallon: volume measure), not raṭl رطل (pound: standard weight). This paper recommends a reference volume for the ṣāʿ, and from this value, the volume for the smaller measure mud and much larger measure wasq وسق were calculated. The agricultural niṣāb (5 wasq) is one of the key parameters in ṣāʿ volume analysis.
Research limitations/implications
This study covers standard measures acquired from Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom (traceable to India). Several empirical data are attained from previous studies from Saudi Arabia and North Africa. Also, some theoretical data are obtained from kitab tafsir, hadith and kitab turath (books and records written by early scholars). A concern in this study is the ratio of de-husked grains currently approximated at half of un-hulled grains. This might not necessarily be accurate and may differ by different types of grains.
Practical implications
After the introduction of the modern measurement system known as the International System of Units (SI) in 1971, ṣāʿ became obsolete, leaving each state in Malaysia to define and convert ṣāʿ to SI units variously. This paper contributes to standardizing the conversion to one value with an appropriate SI unit, that has traceability to the Prophet’s ṣāʿ. This national reference standard ṣāʿ is essential for zakat al-fiṭr measurement, important for zakat centers and impacting every Muslim in Malaysia. Often overlooked, ṣāʿ is more crucial as a basis in determining and standardizing the seasonal crops niṣāb, unfolding the reasons why the poor are paying the paddy zakat in Malaysia.
Social implications
The Prophet’s tradition for ablution is to use water not more than one mud, this is aligned with the 12th Sustainable Development Goals by the United Nations which promoted the responsible consumption of water. Considering half (adults) of the 1.9 billion Muslims in the world, multiplied by 5 times of prayer, the Muslims will at least use 4.75 billion muds of water for ablution alone in 1 day. This is approximately 3.5 billion liters of water daily, and if they limit their water usage to 1 mud for each ablution, they collectively will save at least four times more water (about 14 billion liters) daily than performing ablution from a running tap. Though for ablution, accuracy is not an issue, the mud impact on all Muslims is vital on a daily basis, literally by volume.
Originality/value
Ṣāʿ is essential in measuring food for the annually obligated zakat al-fiṭr and more crucial as a basis in determining the seasonal crops niṣāb. This paper contributes to the development of a national reference standard ṣāʿ for Malaysia that has traceability to the Prophet’s ṣāʿ.
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Pratibha Bhardwaj, Himani Sharma and Ubba Savita
The purpose of this paper is to determine the relationship between employee empowerment (structural empowerment [SE] and psychological empowerment [PE]), employee commitment (EC…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to determine the relationship between employee empowerment (structural empowerment [SE] and psychological empowerment [PE]), employee commitment (EC) and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) within the unique context of a learning organization in the Indian retail sector.
Design/methodology/approach
The investigation was conducted using a survey-based questionnaire approach. Data were gathered from 222 frontline employees working in different retail stores in India. The researcher used AMOS 22.0 version and SPSS 22.0 version for the data analysis.
Findings
This study concluded that SE and PE have a positive and significant influence on OCB and EC. In addition, EC is a mediator between employee empowerment (SE and PE) and OCB.
Research limitations/implications
This research is built on cross-sectional data with a limited sample size, that is, 222 sample size. This study also offers some practical insights to managers of retail stores.
Originality/value
To the best of authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to empirically investigate the mediating role of EC between SE and OCB. By focusing on the interplay of these variables within a learning organization, this study sheds light on the mechanisms driving employee behavior and organizational dynamics in this rapidly evolving retail sector.
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This study aims to assess the effect of both apigenin-loaded zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) and apigenin only against cisplatin (CP)-induced experimental cardiotoxicity.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to assess the effect of both apigenin-loaded zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) and apigenin only against cisplatin (CP)-induced experimental cardiotoxicity.
Design/methodology/approach
A total of 32Wister rats (male) were randomly divided (n = 8) into four groups. Normal control group, CP group received CP (20 mg/kg); treated group I received CP and then received apigenin (0.78 mg/kg/day) orally; treated group II received CP and then received apigenin loaded ZnONPs. At the end of the experiment (10 days), samples were extracted from each rat for the assessment of complete blood picture, lipid profile, atherogenic indices, oxidative status, inflammatory and cardiotoxicity markers as well as histological examination.
Findings
The results indicated that CP produced significant alterations in the complete blood picture, lipidemic profile, atherogenic indices, antioxidation capacity and cardiac inflammatory markers as well as function enzymes as compared with the control group. Administration of apigenin only showed a non-significant change in the atherogenic indices, oxidative status and cardiotoxicity parameters, indicating incomplete cardio-protection against CP upon. Additionally, all the observed alterations in CP group were reversed when apigenin nanoparticle at lower dose was used with ZnONPs which was also confirmed by histopathological investigation.
Originality/value
The apigenin loaded ZnONPs exert protective effects against CP-induced experimental cardiotoxicity and improved cardiac function, suggesting a potential adjuvant role of apigenin nanoparticles against cardiotoxicity.
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Allison Brown Ledford, Anna Hyre, Gregory Harris, Gregory Purdy and Thomas Hedberg Jr
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is a prominent area of interest in the field of manufacturing that is bringing about revolutionary changes. In this study, the authors sought to…
Abstract
Purpose
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is a prominent area of interest in the field of manufacturing that is bringing about revolutionary changes. In this study, the authors sought to determine whether professionals in academia or industry could have predicted the composition of advanced technologies associated with Industry 4.0 before Germany's Industrie 4.0 policy announcement. The purpose of this paper is to use the process for identifying technologies that can be included in industrial policy to improve national competitiveness in manufacturing.
Design/methodology/approach
Relevant documented research from 2000 to 2012 was identified and captured using a systematic literature review. The significant technological advancements during this period were analyzed to determine how technological innovations may have affected predictions about the future of manufacturing. The identified predictions were analyzed using an open-source natural language processing code that clustered relevant topics in the predictions that indicated common themes. The results were then compared to the ideas within “Industry 5.0”.
Findings
The results of this study showed that an aggregate analysis of manufacturing predictions would have preemptively revealed the Fourth Industrial Revolution and could have been used to inform industrial policy that could accelerate technology adoption. Also, contrary to popular belief, the popular Industry 5.0 is a sematic exemplification of a concept already embedded within the origins of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Practical implications
By examining the provenance of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, lessons are learned that bring light to Industry 4.0 and the measures that can be taken to enable the advancements that it brings. The results of this study show that is would be wise for government policymakers to enact programs that monitor the manufacturing predictions coming out of academia and to analyze them aggregately using natural language processing as a means to identify the next evolutions and revolutions and to mobilize policymakers to enhance outcomes of enacting policy.
Originality/value
Despite high hopes for the realization of Industry 4.0, there has been little discussion about the technological innovations and events that occurred to enable it. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that has determined that an aggregate analysis of manufacturing predictions would have preemptively revealed the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The success of the methodology used in this study has theoretical implications in support of natural language processing (NLP) being used to inform national policy.
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Mykola Riabchykov, Liudmyla Nazarchuk, Oksana Tkachuk and Victoria Stytsyuk
This paper aims to prove the expediency and effectiveness of magnetic textiles use obtained by adding nanopowder synthesized on the basis of oxides of divalent and trivalent iron…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to prove the expediency and effectiveness of magnetic textiles use obtained by adding nanopowder synthesized on the basis of oxides of divalent and trivalent iron oxides, taking into account bacteriostatic, magnetotherapeutic and compressive properties.
Design/methodology/approach
The research includes methods of synthesis of nanoelements of bivalent and trivalent iron, methods of the theory of elasticity for determining the pressure between compression clothing and a limb, methods of creating an annular magnetic field with determination of its voltage, methods of determining the growth dynamics of mold bacteria and methods of approximation of experimental data.
Findings
On the base of the determination of the forces arising from the interaction of magnetic nanotextiles with a magnetic field, the expediency of using these materials in the creation of compression clothing has been proven. An additional medical value of magnetic textiles is the bacteriostatic effect. The content of magnetic nanoelements in the textile composition of 0.2% almost completely suppresses mold infections
Research limitations/implications
Cotton samples with the addition of nanocomponents based on ferric and ferric oxides were studied.
Practical implications
Magnetotextile materials can be used in magnetotherapy, compression clothing, in textile products that provide bacteriostatic properties.
Originality/value
The use of magnetic textile materials is a perspective direction for the creation of medical textile products with complex properties.
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Bart Raeymaekers and Thomas Berfield
The ability to use laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) to print parts with tailored surface topography could reduce the need for costly post-processing. However, characterizing the…
Abstract
Purpose
The ability to use laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) to print parts with tailored surface topography could reduce the need for costly post-processing. However, characterizing the as-built surface topography as a function of process parameters is crucial to establishing linkages between process parameters and surface topography and is currently not well understood. The purpose of this study is to measure the effect of different LPBF process parameters on the as-built surface topography of Inconel 718 parts.
Design/methodology/approach
Inconel 718 truncheon specimens with different process parameters, including single- and double contour laser pass, laser power, laser scan speed, build orientation and characterize their as-built surface topography using deterministic and areal surface topography parameters are printed. The effect of both individual process parameters, as well as their interactions, on the as-built surface topography are evaluated and linked to the underlying physics, informed by surface topography data.
Findings
Deterministic surface topography parameters are more suitable than areal surface topography parameters to characterize the distinct features of the as-built surfaces that result from LPBF. The as-built surface topography is strongly dependent on the built orientation and is dominated by the staircase effect for shallow orientations and partially fused metal powder particles for steep orientations. Laser power and laser scan speed have a combined effect on the as-built surface topography, even when maintaining constant laser energy density.
Originality/value
This work addresses two knowledge gaps. (i) It introduces deterministic instead of areal surface topography parameters to unambiguously characterize the as-built LPBF surfaces. (ii) It provides a methodical study of the as-built surface topography as a function of individual LPBF process parameters and their interaction effects.
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Wiah Wardiningsih, Farhan Aqil Syauqi Pradanta, Ryan Rudy, Resty Mayseptheny Hernawati and Doni Sugiyana
The purpose of this study is to analyse the characteristics of cellulose fibres derived from the pseudo-stems of Curcuma longa and to evaluate the properties of non-woven fabric…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to analyse the characteristics of cellulose fibres derived from the pseudo-stems of Curcuma longa and to evaluate the properties of non-woven fabric produced using these fibres.
Design/methodology/approach
The fibres were extracted via a decortication method. The acquired intrinsic qualities of the fibres were used to assess the feasibility of using them in textile applications. The thermal bonding approach was used for the development of the non-woven fabric, using a hot press machine with low-melt polyester fibre as a binder.
Findings
The mean length of Curcuma longa fibres was determined to be 52.73 cm, with a fineness value of 4.00 tex. The fibres exhibited an uneven cross-sectional morphology, characterized by a diverse range of oval-shaped lumens. The fibre exhibited a tenacity of 1.45 g/denier and an elongation value of 4.30%. The fibres possessed a moisture regain value of 11.30%. The experimental non-woven fabrics had consistent weight and thickness, while exhibiting different properties in terms of tensile strength and air permeability, with Fabric C having the highest tensile strength and the lowest air permeability value.
Originality/value
The features of Curcuma longa fibre, obtained with the decortication process, exhibited suitability for textile applications. Three experimental non-woven fabrics comprising different compositions of Curcuma longa fibre and low-melt polyester fibre were produced. The tensile strength and air permeability properties of these fabrics were influenced by the composition of the fibres.
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William Alomoto, Angels Niñerola and Maria-Victòria Sánchez-Rebull
The growth of mental disorders and their costs represents a public health challenge. This study aims to explore how a social club can help mitigate its impact through arts and…
Abstract
Purpose
The growth of mental disorders and their costs represents a public health challenge. This study aims to explore how a social club can help mitigate its impact through arts and sports workshops.
Design/methodology/approach
Using the social return on investment (SROI) methodology, the impact of the social club is evaluated by identifying stakeholders and quantifying their contributions. In addition, the relationship between patients’ attendance and the reduction of relapses and medication consumption is explored.
Findings
The SROI showed a positive return on investment, €12.12 per euro invested. This ratio indicates that the social club generates social value well above its initial costs. On the other hand, two stakeholders were identified as higher impact generators, and it was confirmed that sports activities generate more social and economic impact than art activities – however, the positive effects of art activities last longer over time. The study revealed a positive relationship between social club attendance and relapse reduction. Almost 90% of the participating users reported no relapses or emergency hospitalizations during the past year of attendance. In addition, a substantial decrease in medication dosage was observed. These results suggest that social clubs help stabilize mental health and reduce the burden on health-care systems.
Originality/value
The case study highlights the vital role of social clubs in supporting people facing mental health issues. Policymakers and health-care providers can use this knowledge to invest in more effective and sustainable mental health support activities.
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