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Article
Publication date: 16 November 2023

Asma-Qamaliah Abdul-Hamid, Mohd Helmi Ali, Lokhman Hakim Osman, Ming-Lang Tseng and Ahmad Raflis Che Omar

This paper aims to contribute significantly to the empirical investigations on adopting Industry 4.0–circular economy in the Malaysian palm oil industry. The paper also aims to…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute significantly to the empirical investigations on adopting Industry 4.0–circular economy in the Malaysian palm oil industry. The paper also aims to theorise and empirically assess a comprehensive model incorporating three aspects and 51 criteria.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-stage methodology is proposed using the fuzzy Delphi method and the fuzzy-based analytical network process. Twenty-seven criteria on adoptability of industry 4.0–circular economy were selected for the first-stage methodology, followed by identifying each criteria's intersection with the overall objectives.

Findings

The findings indicate that financial constraints, the lack of a collaborative I4.0–CE model, laws and policy, low management support and the training of dedicated employers in I4.0–CE-application are the top five criteria requiring critical attention from the POI.

Practical implications

The overall sustainability advantages of the POI are identified and discussed in depth to establish criteria for industry 4.0–circular economy applications.

Originality/value

This study fills the previous research gap by theoretically explaining POI's industry 4.0 adoption–circular economy from the perspective of two underpinning theories. Due to the pressure towards sustainability, the industry must be ready to adopt industry 4.0–circular economy applications, and resources must be managed appropriately and effectively by sharing and integrating. Advanced industry 4.0 technologies and pragmatic practices such as a circular economy are needed to achieve optimal sustainable development while retaining commercial success.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 124 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 April 2024

Rilwan Kayode Apalowo, Mohamad Aizat Abas, Zuraihana Bachok, Mohamad Fikri Mohd Sharif, Fakhrozi Che Ani, Mohamad Riduwan Ramli and Muhamed Abdul Fatah bin Muhamed Mukhtar

This study aims to investigate the possible defects and their root causes in a soft-termination multilayered ceramic capacitor (MLCC) when subjected to a thermal reflow process.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the possible defects and their root causes in a soft-termination multilayered ceramic capacitor (MLCC) when subjected to a thermal reflow process.

Design/methodology/approach

Specimens of the capacitor assembly were subjected to JEDEC level 1 preconditioning (85 °C/85%RH/168 h) with 5× reflow at 270°C peak temperature. Then, they were inspected using a 2 µm scanning electron microscope to investigate the evidence of defects. The reliability test was also numerically simulated and analyzed using the extended finite element method implemented in ABAQUS.

Findings

Excellent agreements were observed between the SEM inspections and the simulation results. The findings showed evidence of discontinuities along the Cu and the Cu-epoxy layers and interfacial delamination crack at the Cu/Cu-epoxy interface. The possible root causes are thermal mismatch between the Cu and Cu-epoxy layers, moisture contamination and weak Cu/Cu-epoxy interface. The maximum crack length observed in the experimentally reflowed capacitor was measured as 75 µm, a 2.59% difference compared to the numerical prediction of 77.2 µm.

Practical implications

This work's contribution is expected to reduce the additional manufacturing cost and lead time in investigating reliability issues in MLCCs.

Originality/value

Despite the significant number of works on the reliability assessment of surface mount capacitors, work on crack growth in soft-termination MLCC is limited. Also, the combined experimental and numerical investigation of reflow-induced reliability issues in soft-termination MLCC is limited. These cited gaps are the novelties of this study.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 41 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 9 July 2024

Sandhya H, Sejana Jose V and Bindi Varghese

This chapter proposes to understand the prospects of smart technologies that can transform tourism destinations and instigate regenerative development process. Bio-based resource…

Abstract

This chapter proposes to understand the prospects of smart technologies that can transform tourism destinations and instigate regenerative development process. Bio-based resource consumption and technology-driven practices aimed for better sustainable development have been the need of the era. This study emphasizes the theory of regenerative tourism, which attempts to preserve and improve a destination's natural and cultural resources while contributing to the socio-economic development of the host communities. It examines how transformational technologies, like smart infrastructure, big data analytics and renewable energy systems, could assist the tourism industry achieve the transition to a green economy. This chapter illustrates the benefits and problems of integrating such technologies into the tourism infrastructure of a destination. Additionally, it highlights the necessity of cooperation among stakeholders and policymakers and examines the possible environmental, social and economic implications of using a regenerative approach to tourism. The results of this study contribute to the expanding body of knowledge on the development of sustainable tourism and shed light on the transformative potential of technology in creating a more sustainable and resilient future.

Details

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Regenerative Tourism and Green Destinations
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83753-746-4

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 June 2024

Alene Sze Jing Yong, Rosamund Wei Xin Koo, Choon Ming Ng, Shaun Wen Huey Lee and Siew Li Teoh

Dyslipidaemia is an established risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Calorie restriction and adopting a heart-healthy diet like the Mediterranean diet are the main dietary…

Abstract

Purpose

Dyslipidaemia is an established risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Calorie restriction and adopting a heart-healthy diet like the Mediterranean diet are the main dietary interventions for dyslipidaemia. Other dietary behaviours, such as changes in meal frequency and timing, are not included in the major dietary advice guidelines despite the potential correlation between eating patterns and lipid metabolism. This overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses aims to summarise the effect of meal timing and frequency on lipid profile and make possible recommendations on which meal timing pattern is superior in reducing lipid levels.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the protocol published on PROSPERO (CRD42021248956), five databases were searched for systematic reviews and meta-analyses investigating the effects of meal timing and frequency on lipid profile in adults.

Findings

Five reviews were included, with two reviews on breakfast skipping and meal frequency, respectively, and one review on night-time eating. Increasing meal frequency while maintaining the total calorie intake was reported to reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels with low- to moderate-quality evidence. There was a correlation between breakfast skipping and an undesirable increase in LDL levels with low-quality evidence. However, there needs to be more high-quality evidence to conclude the effect of dietary behaviours on blood lipid levels.

Originality/value

This overview provides a comprehensive summary of evidence examining the effects of meal timing and frequency on adult lipid profiles. The current low- or moderate-quality evidence could not support the recommendation of alteration of meal frequency as an alternative to conventional non-pharmacological treatments for dyslipidaemia.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. 54 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 April 2024

Prince Agwu, Ifunanya Agu, Nkoli Ezumah, Chinyere Mbachu and Obinna Onwujekwe

Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) interventions demand diverse services, encompassing medical, social and psychological care to ensure the overall wellbeing of service users…

Abstract

Purpose

Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) interventions demand diverse services, encompassing medical, social and psychological care to ensure the overall wellbeing of service users. In the absence of multidisciplinary response to SRH interventions, service users could be deprived of crucial SRH services, which could undermine their safety and wellbeing. Based on this knowledge, our study was designed to map the interprofessional space in primary healthcare (PHC) facilities in Ebonyi State, Nigeria that deliver SRH services.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews with 20 health workers and group discussions with 72 young people aged 15–24 years provided the data for the study. We analyzed data deductively, focusing on the assessments of the presence or absence of specific professionals that are typically expected to provide different aspects of SRH services.

Findings

We found conspicuous absence of laboratory diagnostic, social care, psycho-cognitive and some medical services expected of primary care. These absences necessitated unnecessary referrals, encouraged breaches in confidentiality, undermined social care and justice, increased cost of care and discouraged young clients from utilizing SRH services provided in PHCs. Our study, therefore, emphasizes the need for integrated care in the delivery of SRH services, which would involve relevant diverse professionals contributing their expertise toward comprehensive care for SRH service users.

Originality/value

The study provides human resource insights toward strengthening primary healthcare in Nigeria vis-à-vis efficient delivery of SRH services to guarantee the health security of service users.

Details

International Journal of Health Governance, vol. 29 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2059-4631

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 15 August 2023

Taofeek Tunde Okanlawon, Luqman Oyekunle Oyewobi and Richard Ajayi Jimoh

The purpose of this study is to assess the barriers to the implementation of blockchain technology in construction supply chain management in Nigeria.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess the barriers to the implementation of blockchain technology in construction supply chain management in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a quantitative research approach through a questionnaire survey that was conducted among professionals in the Nigerian construction industry using the snowball sampling method, which resulted in a selection of 155 respondents. The collected data were analysed using descriptive and exploratory factor analysis (EFA), while Cronbach's alpha was used to assess the reliability.

Findings

The analysis revealed that all barriers ranked above the average mean item score. It also revealed that all professionals have a convergent opinion on the barriers. EFA was used in clustering the identified barriers into two categories: technological and socio-political barrier.

Research limitations/implications

This research was carried out in the Southwestern region which is one of the six geo-political zones in Nigeria using a cross-sectional survey method.

Practical implications

The findings provide valuable insights into the barriers to the implementation of blockchain in supply chain management for professionals and practitioners in the Nigerian construction industry.

Originality/value

The research categorised the barriers into technological and social-political barrier and identified that lack of digitalisation is the major barrier to the implementation of blockchain technology in construction supply chain.

Details

Frontiers in Engineering and Built Environment, vol. 4 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2634-2499

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 January 2023

Yuan Chen, Ziyue Yang, Bingsheng Liu, Dan Wang, Yan Xiao and Anmin Wang

This study aims to investigate the influence mechanism of expatriates' cultural intelligence (CQ) on expatriate effectiveness (task performance and premature return intention)…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence mechanism of expatriates' cultural intelligence (CQ) on expatriate effectiveness (task performance and premature return intention), identifying work engagement as a mediator and cultural distance as a boundary condition.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the conservation of resource theory and the person–environment fit (P–E fit) theory, a moderated mediation model is built. Working with a sample of 303 international construction expatriates collected by snowball sampling, the hypotheses are tested by using the structural equation model analysis.

Findings

Work engagement partially mediates the relationship between expatriates' CQ and task performance, as well as fully mediates the relationship between expatriates' CQ and premature return intention. Cultural distance moderates the positive relationship between CQ and work engagement, as well as moderates the mediating effects of work engagement.

Research limitations/implications

The impacts of potential moderators (e.g. work–family conflict and organizational culture) on the relationship between CQ and expatriate effectiveness have not been considered in this study.

Practical implications

This study is useful for international construction firms to optimize the allocation of human resources.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the expatriate literature by adding empirical evidence to explain the influence mechanism of expatriates' CQ on expatriate effectiveness.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 May 2022

Olawale Olusoga and Olumuyiwa Adegun

The purpose of this study is to explore the perceptions of built environment professionals on the benefits and impediments limiting the widespread acceptance of vertical greening…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the perceptions of built environment professionals on the benefits and impediments limiting the widespread acceptance of vertical greening systems (VGSs) in Lagos, Nigeria. This study contributes to the knowledge on the adoption of VGSs from the socio-technical dimension.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a survey method. An online questionnaire was used to obtain information from the respondents. The questionnaire was divided into four (4) sections. The first section focused on the socio-demographic variables while the second section addressed knowledge of VGSs, willingness to educate clients on the use of VGS and the possibility of VGS improving city image in Lagos. Section three (3) focused on the VGS benefits, subdivided into environmental, economic and aesthetic qualities and measured on a five-point Likert scale. Lastly, section four (4) concentrated on the impediments to the use of VGS in Lagos.

Findings

Professionals are willing to adopt the use of VGSs if their clients agree to the benefits it delivers to occupants, the environment and the building fabric.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study the perceptions of professionals toward VGSs patronage.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. 42 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 June 2024

Alireza Moghayedi, Kathy Michell, Bankole Awuzie and Unekwu Jonathan Adama

The purpose of this study is to explore the increased uptake of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology by Facility Management (FM) organizations for enhanced operational…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the increased uptake of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology by Facility Management (FM) organizations for enhanced operational efficiency and competitive advantage. While AI adoption in FM has been widely reported, limited attempts have been made to assess its impact on the social well-being of FM employees. To contribute towards addressing this gap, this study established the essential employee social well-being factors mostly impacted by the adoption of AI in South African FM organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A four-stage design comprising a comprehensive review of literature, expert interviews, questionnaire census and focus group discussion sessions was used to elicit data from a sample of participants drawn from 22 South African FM organizations. The data was analyzed using a combination of content analysis, relative importance index and interpretative structural modeling for various data sets toward achieving the study’s objectives.

Findings

Sixteen employee social well-being factors, classified under job satisfaction, social relationship and knowledge development categories, respectively, were identified as being impacted by AI adoption in FM organizations. Furthermore, it was established that job security, job autonomy and professional status, which belong to the job satisfaction social well-being factor category, were deemed by FM employees as being mostly impacted by AI adoption.

Practical implications

The enhanced understanding of the impact of AI adoption on FM employees’ social well-being factors will contribute to the development of a collaborative intelligence framework for managing AI adoption in FM organizations toward engendering optimal AI–FM employee relationships for improved productivity.

Originality/value

Besides being one of the foremost studies to investigate the impact of AI adoption on FM employees’ social well-being, this study introduces a hierarchical framework of understanding employee social well-being factors based on multi-stakeholder perspectives.

Details

Journal of Corporate Real Estate , vol. 26 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-001X

Keywords

Abstract

Details

The Significance of Chinatown Development to a Multicultural America: An Exploration of the Houston Chinatowns
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80455-377-0

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