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Article
Publication date: 25 January 2024

Jain Vinith P.R., Navin Sam K., Vidya T., Joseph Godfrey A. and Venkadesan Arunachalam

This paper aims to Solar photovoltaic (PV) power can significantly impact the power system because of its intermittent nature. Hence, an accurate solar PV power forecasting model…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to Solar photovoltaic (PV) power can significantly impact the power system because of its intermittent nature. Hence, an accurate solar PV power forecasting model is required for appropriate power system planning.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a long short-term memory (LSTM)-based double deep Q-learning (DDQL) neural network (NN) is proposed for forecasting solar PV power indirectly over the long-term horizon. The past solar irradiance, temperature and wind speed are used for forecasting the solar PV power for a place using the proposed forecasting model.

Findings

The LSTM-based DDQL NN reduces over- and underestimation and avoids gradient vanishing. Thus, the proposed model improves the forecasting accuracy of solar PV power using deep learning techniques (DLTs). In addition, the proposed model requires less training time and forecasts solar PV power with improved stability.

Originality/value

The proposed model is trained and validated for several places with different climatic patterns and seasons. The proposed model is also tested for a place with a temperate climatic pattern by constructing an experimental solar PV system. The training, validation and testing results have confirmed the practicality of the proposed solar PV power forecasting model using LSTM-based DDQL NN.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 April 2024

Sana Braiek and Houda Ben Said

This study aims to empirically explore and compare the dynamic dependency between health-care sector and Islamic industries before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to empirically explore and compare the dynamic dependency between health-care sector and Islamic industries before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Time-varying student-t copula is used for before, during and after COVID-19 periods. The data used are the daily frequency price series of the selected markets from February 2017 to October 2023.

Findings

Empirical results found strong evidence of significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the dependence structure of the studied indexes: Co-movements between various sectors are certain. The authors assist also in the birth of new dependence structure with the health-care industry in response to the COVID-19 crisis. This reflects the contagion occurrence from the health-care sector to other sectors.

Originality/value

By specifically examining the Islamic industry, this study sheds light on the resilience, challenges and opportunities within this sector, contributing novel perspectives to the broader discourse on pandemic-related impacts on economies and industries. Also, this paper conducts a comprehensive temporal analysis, examining the dynamics before, during and after the COVID-19 lockdown. Such approach enables an understanding of how the relationship between the health-care sector and the Islamic industry evolves over time, accounting for both short-term disruptions and long-term effects. By considering the pre-pandemic context, the paper adopts a longitudinal perspective, enabling a deeper understanding of how historical trends, structural factors and institutional frameworks shape the interplay between the health-care sector and the Islamic industry.

Details

Journal of Financial Reporting and Accounting, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1985-2517

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 July 2024

Nor Balkish Zakaria, Kazi Musa, Mohammad Rokibul Kabir, Farid A. Sobhani and Muhammad Rasyid Abdillah

This study aims to examine the impacts of global geopolitical risks (GPRs) and COVID-19 pandemic stringency on the size of Sukuk issuance in Malaysia.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impacts of global geopolitical risks (GPRs) and COVID-19 pandemic stringency on the size of Sukuk issuance in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

To examine the issue, this paper collected yearly data for the Sukuk issuance from the DataStream, and the rest of the variables, including the control variables from the World Bank, were from 2018 to 2022. Several econometric approaches have been used, that is, ordinary least square (OLS), two-stage least squares (2SLS) and generalized method of moment (GMM) with fixed effects and random effects in examining the impacts.

Findings

The results demonstrate that global GPRs negatively impact the size of Sukuk issuance due to the investment risk during the high global geopolitical conflicts, war and rampant terrorism. Besides, the COVID-19 pandemic-related stringency also similarly affects the country's Sukuk issuance market because of the long-time lockdown measures, border closures, travel restrictions and low access to the market. The control variables also demonstrate similar results except for the gross domestic products, which shows positive and significant impacts on the Sukuk market of Malaysia.

Originality/value

The study's policy implications for Sukuk investors and issuers stress the importance of disclosing risk mitigation procedures, strengthening the regulatory framework and raising investor knowledge to attract and protect investors in the Sukuk sector.

Details

Journal of Islamic Accounting and Business Research, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-0817

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 October 2024

Vidya Patwardhan, Gita Bajaj, Sujoy Sen and Renuka Kumawat

This study aims to investigate the relationship between student perceived teacher mindfulness (STM), student mindfulness (SM), adversity quotient (ARP) and learner satisfaction…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between student perceived teacher mindfulness (STM), student mindfulness (SM), adversity quotient (ARP) and learner satisfaction (LS). This study likewise examined whether SM and ARP mediate the relationship between STM and LS.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire battery of STM, self-reported SM, ARP and LS was prepared and pilot-tested. A cross-sectional survey of 2,000 students from four universities, three in India and one in the UAE was administered. In total, 713 survey responses after data cleaning were used for analysis.

Findings

The results from three-stage hierarchical multiple regression predicted that STM was the strongest predictor of LS followed by SM and ARP. The parallel mediation Model 4 from PROCESS Macro by Hayes (2013) was used to test the mediation effects of SM and ARP profile on the relationship between STM and LS. It was found that SM has a larger effect than the ARP profile on the LS of a student.

Practical implications

The results of this study show that learner satisfaction in the virtual learning environment can improve through interventions at the institutional level by reviewing the recruitment process of faculty and students, and at the governance level by adopting processes that help address teacher challenges such as stress and anxiety.

Originality/value

In the extant literature, the studies on STM, teacher mindfulness, adversity quotient and learning satisfaction are an under-researched domain, especially in the context of virtual learning. Likewise, the adversity quotient though an established concept has not been adequately studied on students in the virtual environment.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 November 2022

Vidya Rao and Rama Devi Nandineni

Mainstream narratives in Indian history do not delve into the checkered history of the west coast. The reasons for this are many, including a predominantly center-outwards…

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Abstract

Purpose

Mainstream narratives in Indian history do not delve into the checkered history of the west coast. The reasons for this are many, including a predominantly center-outwards viewpoint of historians. West coast has always been open to sea route influences aiding its diversity. However, the lack of natural defense against colonizers from the sea destroyed indigenous and personal heritage. Small town narratives include uprooting, lack of access to past heritage and new settlement creation. The heritage of this everyday landscape shaped by human grit is the subject of the study.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative ethnographic study includes document analysis, transect walking, architectural built form study, open interviews and participatory observations.

Findings

The motivations for heritage management can be grouped into economic, cultural and technological. From a financial point of view, the urban core studied is still relevant and sustainable. Likewise, the Krishna temple dominates the cultural discussion and architectural documentation as a religious center. However, the cultural heritage of business streets and the third motivation of building technology have been largely ignored. This disregard is evident from neglect and the pastiche use of monumental or ornamental styles alien to the region for restoration efforts.

Social implications

“Heritage is personal and individual as well as collective and universal” (Mire, 2016). The Pete heritage is not just crucial for the communities they house but the town as a whole. Their nonimpervious nature means that they hold collective memories for everyone. Attention to memories and monuments will increase the possibilities of shared responsibility between various stakeholders (Swenson et al., 2012). Therefore, they should be seen as a part of the larger whole.

Originality/value

This paper argues for the recent global bottom-up approach in heritage management rather than the conventional established practices. Established heritage management focuses on the mainstream, royal or specific ethnic heritage in the Indian subcontinent. The heritage of the common person rarely has the grandeur of monumental architecture taken up for preservation by the state. As a result, societies' individual and collective heritage are at risk of rapid erasure under the pressures of modernization. Built forms are repositories of cultural information; therefore, a sustainable instrument for the preservation of everyday heritage can be created with culture as an actuator. This study looks at the narrative of the historical coastal small-town business core created by internal mass migration due to colonization.

Details

Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-1266

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 October 2024

Mahmut Zeki Akarsu, Orkideh Gharehgozli and Vidya Atal

The primary purpose of this study is to assess economic inequality within the European Union (EU) using Big Mac Affordability (BMA) as a metric. By comparing the BMA across…

Abstract

Purpose

The primary purpose of this study is to assess economic inequality within the European Union (EU) using Big Mac Affordability (BMA) as a metric. By comparing the BMA across different EU countries, the study aims to highlight purchasing power disparities between core and peripheral nations as well as between high-income and low-income households. Additionally, the research explores the potential impact of income transfers on reducing inequality, offering insights for policymakers to address economic disparities within the EU.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs the Big Mac Affordability (BMA) as an alternative measure to GDP per capita and disposable income for examining inequality across European Union countries. The methodology involves calculating the purchasing power of EU countries and residents by adjusting their disposable income with the BMA, derived from the nominal disposable income and the nominal price of a Big Mac burger. The study uses Gini coefficients, both population-weighted and unweighted, to assess inter-country inequality and the disparity between different income groups within the EU. Data are sourced from The Economist's Big Mac Index and Eurostat.

Findings

The study reveals significant inter-country inequality within the European Union, with the Big Mac Affordability (BMA) highlighting stark disparities in purchasing power between core and peripheral countries. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these inequalities. The analysis shows that EU purchasing power has generally declined or stagnated since 2000, with substantial gaps between different income groups. The study also demonstrates that targeted income transfers, such as a hypothetical 10% transfer from top-income to bottom-income households, could significantly reduce inequality across EU countries.

Research limitations/implications

The Big Mac Affordability (BMA) index, while valuable, has limitations. It relies on a single product to represent purchasing power and omits non-traded goods and services, which can undermine its accuracy. This reliance necessitates complementing BMA with other economic indicators for a comprehensive understanding. Additionally, the index needs refinement to accommodate cultural and contextual factors. Future research should incorporate these elements to enhance the index's applicability in assessing global economic disparities and to explore its relationship with other economic indicators for a more nuanced understanding of inequality.

Practical implications

The study’s findings have significant implications for policymakers in the European Union. The Big Mac Affordability (BMA) index reveals substantial disparities in purchasing power across different EU countries and income groups. By highlighting these disparities, the BMA can inform more targeted and effective policy interventions aimed at reducing economic inequality. Specifically, the study suggests that modest income transfers from high-income to low-income households can significantly reduce inequality. Policymakers can use these insights to design equitable redistribution strategies that enhance economic cohesion and stability within the EU, particularly in times of economic crisis.

Social implications

The study highlights significant social implications arising from economic inequality within the European Union. High levels of inequality, as shown by the Big Mac Affordability (BMA) index, reveal substantial disparities in purchasing power between core and peripheral EU countries as well as between high-income and low-income households. These disparities can lead to social tensions, migration patterns where individuals move from less affluent to more affluent regions and a general decline in social cohesion. Addressing these disparities through targeted income redistribution policies could enhance social stability and promote a more inclusive and equitable society within the EU?

Originality/value

This study innovatively applies the Big Mac Affordability (BMA) index to assess economic inequality within the European Union, providing a novel perspective compared to traditional measures like GDP per capita and disposable income. By focusing on purchasing power parity through the lens of a commonly available consumer product, the study highlights significant disparities in purchasing power across different EU countries and income groups. This approach offers a unique and practical tool for policymakers to understand and address economic inequality, emphasizing the value of BMA as a supplementary metric for analyzing and formulating economic policies.

Details

Journal of Economic Studies, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-3585

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 September 2024

Vidya Lawton, Verity Pacey, Taryn M. Jones and Catherine M. Dean

Australian physiotherapy programs incorporate work-integrated learning within curriculum, with the aim to produce work-ready graduates. Recent research in physiotherapy has…

Abstract

Purpose

Australian physiotherapy programs incorporate work-integrated learning within curriculum, with the aim to produce work-ready graduates. Recent research in physiotherapy has identified six domains of work readiness. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between university performance, paid work and work readiness, and explore the perceived contributions of university curriculum, work and life experiences to work readiness in those individuals transitioning into practice.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-methods design was used incorporating an online survey, and linked university performance data of completing students and recent graduates. The survey included personal and work data, a work readiness scale and Likert scales measuring perceived contributions to work readiness from university curriculum (academic and clinical), work and life experiences. University performance was calculated as the Course Weighted Average Mark. Correlation analysis examined the relationship between university performance, paid work and work readiness. Perceived contributions from university curriculum, and work and life experiences for work readiness domains were calculated as percentages of each Likert response.

Findings

Analysis included 129 surveys (51 completing students and 78 recent graduates). There was no association between university performance, work (paid and unpaid) and perceived work readiness (all p-values > 0.05). There was a high consistent trend that university academic curriculum (range 71–97%), clinical curriculum (range 89–99%) and work and life experiences (range 67–94%) contributed to all work readiness domains.

Originality/value

This study highlights the significant influence of university curriculum, work and life experiences on perceived readiness for practice.

Details

Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-3896

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 October 2024

Bagus Nuari Harmawan, Ghulam Maulana Ilman, Vidya Imanuari Pertiwi and Katerina Bataha

Climate change, a complex global issue, has prompted a wide range of actors – from nations to tiny communities – to seek solutions to mitigate its consequences. The growing…

Abstract

Purpose

Climate change, a complex global issue, has prompted a wide range of actors – from nations to tiny communities – to seek solutions to mitigate its consequences. The growing emphasis on collaborative governance has resulted in substantial research on the topic. This paper aims to address the existing research void by using a bibliometric approach to investigate the evolution of studies on collaborative governance in the context of climate change.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted a bibliometric mapping of research on collaborative governance on climate change issues from the first study presented in 2007 to the research conducted in 2023, using 222 articles derived from the Scopus database and Web of Science. Steps for comprehensive bibliometric literature mapping via the VOSviewer software.

Findings

The study includes a complete overview of significant themes, including the most cited research, contributions from authors, countries, and institutions, as well as network analysis including co-citation, bibliographic coupling, and co-occurrence. Notably, the study looks at which countries have made the most substantial contributions, with the United States dominating with 40 studies over the last decade. The analysis reveals that collaborative governance in climate change, emphasizing its importance as a tool for governments and communities to mitigate climate risks. This is consistent with research emphasizing the need for coordination across multiple players to accomplish effective climate adaptation. The paper focuses on nine diverse research clusters, including community engagement, urban governance, disaster response and economic implications.

Research limitations/implications

This study is restricted to bibliometric analysis, which is conducted using sources from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Future research is required to investigate the use of additional databases that offer a wider range of sources. In the interim, this investigation provides an overview of the concept of Collaborative Governance, which has the potential to serve as a strategy for the adaptation and resilience to climate change in global regions, cities and urban areas.

Originality/value

This study conducts a rigorous bibliometric review that improves our theoretical knowledge and practical use of collaborative governance in addressing climate change. It reveals innovative trends, research gaps and important recommendations for future studies, strengthening the strategic approach to collaborative climate action.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 January 2025

Vidya Belur Raju, Shivashankara Gejjalagere Puttaswamaiah and Atul Kumar Singh

This study explores the feasibility of substituting freshwater with alternative water sources such as potable water (PW), harvested rainwater (HRW), stormwater (SW), borewell…

Abstract

Purpose

This study explores the feasibility of substituting freshwater with alternative water sources such as potable water (PW), harvested rainwater (HRW), stormwater (SW), borewell water (BW) and seawater (Sea W) in concrete manufacturing. The aim is to evaluate the potential of these alternative sources to support sustainable development, reduce environmental impact and conserve freshwater resources in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The research followed established concrete production standards and evaluated the chemical properties of various water sources. Fresh concrete characteristics, including setting time, workability and mechanical properties (compressive, split tensile and flexural strength), were tested at 7, 28 and 90 days. Durability assessments utilized the Volhard assay for chloride content, RCPT for chloride permeability and a physical sulfate attack test. Additionally, a life cycle assessment (LCA) examined the environmental impacts, while an economic analysis assessed cost implications for each water source.

Findings

The results showed only minor differences of 2%–3% in the fresh and mechanical properties of concrete using alternative water sources, with no significant changes in compressive, tensile or flexural strength compared to potable water. The Rapid Chloride Penetration Test (RCPT) and Nord Test techniques showed that all water sources, except seawater, are suitable for concrete mixing, as they enhance concrete durability due to their very low chloride ion concentrations, which minimize the risk of steel corrosion. The sulfate attack, including mass loss and expansion measurements for various water sources, indicates low susceptibility to except seawater. SEM and EDS HRW and SW also showed denser microstructures compared to Potable Water, indicating the absence of voids or cracks and the formation of ettringite needles, while seawater posed challenges due to high chloride content and corrosion risks. The LCA indicated that SW had the lowest environmental impact, while seawater posed substantial challenges. The economic analysis confirmed SW as the most cost-effective option, with all sources meeting production standards except seawater.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights into the sustainable use of non-potable water sources in concrete manufacturing. It demonstrates the viability of using HRW, SW and BW as alternative water sources to potable water, supporting sustainability goals in construction while conserving vital freshwater resources and reducing environmental impact.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 November 2024

Praveen Kumar Sharma and Rajeev Kumra

This study aims to explore the relationship between transformational leadership and proactive customer service performance (PCSP) in the airline industry, considering…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between transformational leadership and proactive customer service performance (PCSP) in the airline industry, considering self-efficacy and emotional intelligence as mediators.

Design/methodology/approach

Bandura’s self-efficacy theory was used for formulating hypotheses. Data were gathered from 500 frontline employees and 30 supervisors to create subordinate dyads, resulting in a final sample size of 370 participants. Structural equation modeling was employed for the purpose of data analysis.

Findings

The results indicated that supervisors’ transformational leadership impacted the self-efficacy and emotional intelligence of service and frontline employees, thereby influencing PCSP. Self-efficacy and emotional intelligence of frontline employees were positively correlated with PCSP. These findings add to the existing literature by providing empirical proof of a positive association between transformational leadership and perceived customer service performance. Furthermore, this study supported the mediating roles of self-efficacy and emotional intelligence of frontline employees as mediators, showing their importance in translating transformational leadership behaviors into enhanced customer service performance.

Practical implications

The airline sector will benefit significantly from the findings of this research. It highlights the significance of transformational leadership in improving PCSP. Organizations should emphasize the creation and growth of transformational leaders capable of inspiring and motivating staff to provide excellent customer service. In addition, the research highlights the significance of self-efficacy and emotional intelligence as factors that mediate the relationship between transformational leadership and PCSP. Organizations may foster PCSP by investing in training and development programs that seek to improve workers’ self-efficacy and emotional intelligence. These programs may help participants gain confidence in their ability to deliver excellent customer service as well as improve their knowledge.

Originality/value

This research paper presents novel theoretical and practical developments in the airline industry. This research paper collected data in two phases from supervisor–subordinate dyads.

Details

International Journal of Quality and Service Sciences, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-669X

Keywords

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