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1 – 10 of 23Huasong Bai, Jiayi Yang, Ruixue Wang, Tong Liu and Zhanzhong Wang
This study aims to enhance the bioavailability and antioxidant function of vitamin E (VE) by combining it with inositol and choline, exploring their synergistic effects and…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to enhance the bioavailability and antioxidant function of vitamin E (VE) by combining it with inositol and choline, exploring their synergistic effects and underlying mechanisms.
Design/methodology/approach
An oxidative stress model in mouse hepatocytes was established using hydrogen peroxide to assess the antioxidant effects of combined VE, inositol and choline treatments. Cell viability, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), were measured to evaluate protective effects. α-Tocopherol (α-T) and α-tocopherol transfer protein (α-TTP) levels were assessed to determine VE bioavailability. Transcriptome sequencing was conducted to identify gene expression changes and pathways impacted by the treatment.
Findings
An optimal oxidative stress model was established with 641 µM hydrogen peroxide for 6 h. The combination of 20 µM VE, 1.5 mM inositol and 0.3 mM choline significantly improved cell viability, reduced ROS and MDA levels and increased SOD and CAT activities, indicating enhanced antioxidant protection. In addition, α-T and α-TTP levels were higher with this combination, suggesting improved VE bioavailability. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the treatment modulated key pathways linked to inflammation, cancer and lipid metabolism, particularly impacting interleukin-17 and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells signaling, cytokine interactions and the alcoholic liver disease pathway.
Originality/value
This study demonstrates a novel approach for improving VE’s bioavailability and effectiveness through its combination with inositol and choline, providing insights that could inform antioxidant therapies and liver health interventions.
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Alessandra Da Ros, Francesca Pennucci and Sabina De Rosis
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted healthcare systems, presenting unforeseen challenges that necessitated the implementation of change management…
Abstract
Purpose
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted healthcare systems, presenting unforeseen challenges that necessitated the implementation of change management strategies to adapt to the new contextual conditions. This study aims to analyze organizational changes within the total hip replacement (THR) surgery pathway at multiple levels, including macro, meso and micro. It employs data triangulation from various sources to gauge the complexity of the change process and comprehend how multi-level decision-making influenced an unexpected shift.
Design/methodology/approach
A multicentric, single in-depth case study was conducted using a mixed-methods approach. Data sources included patient-reported outcome measures specific to the THR pathway and carefully structured in-depth interviews administered to managers and clinicians in two healthcare organizations serving the same population.
Findings
Decisions made at the macro level resulted in an overall reduction in surgical activities. Organizational changes at the meso level led to a complete cessation or partial reorganization of activities. Micro-level actions for change and adaptation revealed diverse and fragmented change management strategies.
Practical implications
Organizations with segmented structures may require a robust and structured department for coordinating change management responses to prevent the entire system from becoming stuck in the absorptive phase of change. However, it is important to recognize that absorptive solutions can serve as a starting point for genuine innovations in change management.
Originality/value
The utilization of data triangulation enables the authors to visualize how specific changes implemented in response to the pandemic have influenced the observed outcomes. From a managerial perspective, it provides insights into how future innovations could be introduced.
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The teaching–research nexus (TRN) has assumed a prominent role in global higher education systems. However, the connection between the two domains has been subject to diverse…
Abstract
Purpose
The teaching–research nexus (TRN) has assumed a prominent role in global higher education systems. However, the connection between the two domains has been subject to diverse interpretations within well-developed higher education systems. Little is known about translating TRN into policy and practice in diverse higher education spaces. In this regard, this article examines the recent trajectory and challenges associated with integrating research and teaching in Cambodia.
Design/methodology/approach
To analyse the current development of TRN and its associated challenges, this article consolidates two sets of data: recent research papers and government policy documents on TRN in the last 10 years or so.
Findings
The analysis shows that the connection between teaching and research appears to be patchy in practice, as evidenced in previous studies. The recent government policies and interventions, although potentially fostering progress in research activities, pose dilemmas regarding the orientation and feasibility of linking these two domains.
Research limitations/implications
This article focuses on enhancing TRN in Cambodia, one of the developing higher education contexts, thereby offering insights into the strategies and concerns within such environments. Policymakers in similar higher education contexts might benefit from considering the concerns and solutions highlighted in this article.
Originality/value
Research on policies and strategies for strengthening TRN in developing higher education contexts remains limited in the literature. This article contributes to our collective knowledge of TRN by looking at Cambodia's contemporary reality and strategies.
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Muhammad Bahrul Ilmi, Muslim Har Sani Mohamad and Ros Aniza Mohd. Shariff
This study aims to investigate the growth of Indonesian Islamic banks and explores organisational growth determinants from different perspectives, namely, organisational climate…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the growth of Indonesian Islamic banks and explores organisational growth determinants from different perspectives, namely, organisational climate, intellectual capital (IC) and organisational service orientation. The study also attempts to develop a model to measure the growth of Islamic banks and uncovers the root causes of the stagnancy in Indonesian Islamic banking.
Design/methodology/approach
The study used survey questionnaires distributed to Islamic bank managers, who were considered representative experts in the field of Islamic banking. The data collected were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 21.0), and two analyses were performed with different strategies to build the regression model, namely, multiple linear regression and automatic linear regression.
Findings
The study found that IC significantly affected Islamic banks’ growth in Indonesia; however, organisational climate and service orientation did not predict such growth. Concerning service orientation as a mediating model, climate or IC had no indirect effect on growth.
Research limitations/implications
This study’s results contribute to fill the gap by analysing the growth of Islamic banks. Hence, the study results will be especially practical and helpful for Islamic bank managers and policymakers to help develop mechanisms for Islamic banks in Indonesia.
Originality/value
By combining the aspects of organisational climate, IC and service orientation from earlier studies and categorising them by organisational growth, together with a comprehensive literature review, the study proposes a model specific to Islamic banks. It also offers new insight and discussion for determining organisational growth in Indonesian Islamic banks.
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Sara Herrada-Lores, Mariola Palazón, M. Ángeles Iniesta-Bonillo and Antonia Estrella-Ramón
This research analyses how dialogical communication on social media enhances the effectiveness of sustainability messages in terms of brand engagement and purchase intention…
Abstract
Purpose
This research analyses how dialogical communication on social media enhances the effectiveness of sustainability messages in terms of brand engagement and purchase intention. Dialogical messages generate social media engagement, which helps improve consumer responses.
Design/methodology/approach
Two experimental studies (2 × 2) were conducted, in which two factors were manipulated: the dialogical potential of the message (dialogical versus monological) and message orientation (sustainability versus commercial).
Findings
The dialogical potential of the message moderates the effect of sustainability messages on brand engagement and purchase intention. Results indicate that sustainability messages featuring dialogical elements generate greater brand engagement and purchase intention than commercial messages. Furthermore, social media engagement mediates these effects.
Practical implications
This study offers valuable insights into applying dialogical principles to sustainability communication on social media. Marketers should design dialogical messages to foster dialogue with customers and enhance engagement.
Originality/value
Few studies have focused on analysing the effects of applying dialogical strategies on social media to communicate sustainability. Thus, this study highlights the importance of dialogical communication beyond the inclusion of interactive elements when communicating sustainability on social media. The inclusion of dialogical features specifically benefits sustainability messages, given the transparency and honesty they demand.
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Rohit Raj, Vimal Kumar, Arpit Singh and Pratima Verma
This study aims to investigate the relationship between patient satisfaction (PS) and the parameters in healthcare and supply chain management (HLSCM).
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the relationship between patient satisfaction (PS) and the parameters in healthcare and supply chain management (HLSCM).
Design/methodology/approach
The structural equation modeling (SEM) and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method have been employed to identify correlation and possible configuration of causal factors that influence PS, including lack of resilience (LS), lack of visibility (LV), cost management (CM) and integration and interoperability (II).
Findings
The results from SEM confirmed that PS is highly correlated with lack of visibility, CM and II as critical parameters. Moreover, fsQCA findings state that the configuration of high levels of both resilience and lack of visibility, as well as high levels of II, are crucial for PS.
Research limitations/implications
The researchers also identified the configuration of factors that lead to low PS. The study’s results could assist healthcare providers in improving their supply chain operations, resulting in more effective and efficient healthcare service delivery and ultimately improving PS.
Originality/value
The fsQCA method used in the study provides a more nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between these factors. The inclusion of supply chain management characteristics as parameters in the evaluation of PS is a novel aspect of this research. Previous studies largely focused on more traditional factors such as physical care, waiting times and hospital amenities. By considering supply chain management factors, this study provides insights into an under-explored area of PS research, which has important implications for healthcare providers looking to improve their operations and PS.
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Bidemi Olumide Falodun, Musa Oladipupo Tijani, Ibrahim Oyeyemi Adenekan, Olabode Amos Abraham and Tolulope Idiat Ogunsanya
The purpose of this study is to consider the dynamics of Casson–Walters-B alongside gyrotactic microorganisms through the investigation of antibacterial and antiviral mechanisms…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to consider the dynamics of Casson–Walters-B alongside gyrotactic microorganisms through the investigation of antibacterial and antiviral mechanisms using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The Casson fluid and Walters-B flow from the penetrable plate to the boundary layer (BL) in this analysis. The antiviral and antibacterial mechanisms of AgNPs were separately examined in this study.
Design/methodology/approach
The physical phenomenon of this problem was analyzed with partial differential equations (PDEs). These PDEs were changed into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) to further explain the significance of pertinent control parameters. The set of equations is solved numerically by implementing the spectral relaxation method (SRM). SRM is a numerical technique that uses the basic techniques of Gauss-Seidel. The SRM first decouples and linearizes the coupled nonlinear set of ODEs.
Findings
In this finding, it is found that the thermal radiation parameter produces higher temperatures within the BL to cause blockage in viral replications. It is found in this study that the magnetic parameter assisted in disinfection by lowering the antiviral and antibacterial mechanisms within the momentum BL. This is evident from the reduction in the velocity and momentum BL as the Casson and Walters-B parameters increase.
Originality/value
This paper is unique because it examined the antiviral and antibacterial mechanisms by using AgNPs. Prior to the authors’ understanding, no study of this type was conducted in the past. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no other study in the past has examined the mechanisms of antiviral and antibacterial separately within the BL. Also, the simultaneous flow of Casson (honey) and Walters-B fluids were considered flowing through the vertical porous plate to the BL.
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The purpose of this study is to take stock of the increasing use of central bank sanctions as a foreign policy tool and to analyse their compatibility with international legal…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to take stock of the increasing use of central bank sanctions as a foreign policy tool and to analyse their compatibility with international legal principles, such as non-intervention, state immunity and human rights.
Design/methodology/approach
This study provides a comprehensive analysis of state practice regarding central bank sanctions and the international legal framework that governs them. It systematically examines relevant international legal principles, identifies potential violations and explores justifications and defences states may use to support the legality of these sanctions.
Findings
The analysis reveals that central bank sanctions often clash with various international legal norms, including non-intervention, state immunity and human rights. This study argues that such sanctions can only be justified as countermeasures in exceptional circumstances and must adhere to strict conditions to be lawful, particularly concerning their proportionality and humanitarian impacts.
Originality/value
This study fills a gap in international legal scholarship by providing a dedicated analysis of central bank sanctions. It offers valuable insights for policymakers, legal practitioners and scholars on the legal complexities and potential ramifications of using central bank sanctions as a foreign policy instrument.
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Yiling Gao, Chen Wang, Liping Huang, Defa Wang and Zhibin Chen
To help supervisors understand the positions of workers in real-time, provide safety guidance for workers and reduce the occurrence of accidents. This study proposes a real-time…
Abstract
Purpose
To help supervisors understand the positions of workers in real-time, provide safety guidance for workers and reduce the occurrence of accidents. This study proposes a real-time positioning algorithm based on multi-source information coupling, aiming to solve the problem of workers’ autonomous positioning in signal-blind areas.
Design/methodology/approach
The proposed algorithm utilizes the visual SLAM and IMU sensors to perceive the environment, construct three-dimensional images, improve the accuracy of corner point matching, pre-integrate the raw IMU data, and adopt the tightly coupled method to couple the visual and inertial navigation data, thereby establishing a binocular visual SLAM and IMU coupling real-time positioning model.
Findings
The real-time positioning technology based on the coupling of visual SLAM and IMU shows good positioning effect and calculation speed in indoor sites, has good adaptability and accuracy in different building construction scenarios, and the positioning error can be controlled within 3%.
Originality/value
The successful construction of the real-time positioning method effectively alleviates the problem of inaccurate positioning caused by signal blind areas in the existing positioning management system, helps protect the lives and safety of construction site workers and improves the management efficiency of construction site supervisors.
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Mahadev Laxman Naik and Milind Shrikant Kirkire
Asset maintenance in manufacturing industries is a critical issue as organizations are highly sensitive towards maximizing asset uptime. In the advent of Industry 4.0, maintenance…
Abstract
Purpose
Asset maintenance in manufacturing industries is a critical issue as organizations are highly sensitive towards maximizing asset uptime. In the advent of Industry 4.0, maintenance is increasingly becoming technology driven and is being termed as Maintenance 4.0. Several barriers impede the implementation of Maintenance 4.0. This article aims at - exploring the barriers to implementation of Maintenance 4.0 in manufacturing industries, categorizing them, analysing them to prioritize and suggesting the digital technologies to overcome them.
Design/methodology/approach
Twenty barriers to the implementation of Maintenance 4.0 were identified through literature survey and discussion with the industry experts. The identified barriers were divided into five categories based on their source of occurrence and prioritized using fuzzy-technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), sensitivity analysis was carried out to check the robustness of the solution.
Findings
“Data security issues” has been ranked as the most influencing barrier towards the implementation of Maintenance 4.0, whereas “lack of skilled engineers and data scientists” is the least influencing barrier that impacts the implementation of Maintenance 4.0 in the manufacwturing industries.
Practical implications
The outcomes of this research will help manufacturing industries, maintenance engineers/managers, policymakers, and industry professionals for detailed understanding of barriers and identify easy pickings while implementing Maintenance 4.0.
Originality/value
Manufacturing industries are witnessing a paradigm shift due to digitization and maintenance 4.0 forms the cornerstone. Little research has been carried in Maintenance 4.0 and its implementation; this article will help in bridging the gap. The prioritization of the barriers and digital course of actions to overcome those is a unique contribution of this article.
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