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Article
Publication date: 15 October 2024

Loretta Bortey, David J. Edwards, Chris Roberts and Iain Rillie

Safety research has focused on drivers, pedestrians and vehicles, with scarce attention given to highway traffic officers (HTOs). This paper develops a robust prediction model…

Abstract

Purpose

Safety research has focused on drivers, pedestrians and vehicles, with scarce attention given to highway traffic officers (HTOs). This paper develops a robust prediction model which enables highway safety authorities to predict exclusive incidents occurring on the highway such as incursions and environmental hazards, respond effectively to diverse safety risk incident scenarios and aid in timely safety precautions to minimise HTO incidents.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from a highway incident database, a supervised machine learning method that employs three algorithms [namely Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forests (RF) and Naïve Bayes (NB)] was applied, and their performances were comparatively analysed. Three data balancing algorithms were also applied to handle the class imbalance challenge. A five-phase sequential method, which includes (1) data collection, (2) data pre-processing, (3) model selection, (4) data balancing and (5) model evaluation, was implemented.

Findings

The findings indicate that SVM with a polynomial kernel combined with the Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE) algorithm is the best model to predict the various incidents, and the Random Under-sampling (RU) algorithm was the most inefficient in improving model accuracy. Weather/visibility, age range and location were the most significant factors in predicting highway incidents.

Originality/value

This is the first study to develop a prediction model for HTOs and utilise an incident database solely dedicated to HTOs to forecast various incident outcomes in highway operations. The prediction model will provide evidence-based information to safety officers to train HTOs on impending risks predicted by the model thereby equipping workers with resilient shocks such as awareness, anticipation and flexibility.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 October 2024

Emmanuel Doe Dzramado, Richard Ohene Asiedu, De-Graft Owusu-Manu, David J. Edwards, Michael Adesi and Alex Acheampong

This paper explored the socioeconomic factors affecting green cities development. Extant literature have highlighted green cities as a major path towards sustainability in the…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper explored the socioeconomic factors affecting green cities development. Extant literature have highlighted green cities as a major path towards sustainability in the construction industry but very little is known on the socioeconomic aspect of green cities and its bid in promoting sustainability in the construction industry; hence, the premise of this study which highlights the socioeconomic factors affecting green cities development in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify the socioeconomic factors affecting green cities. A quantitative research strategy was adopted to collect primary data from respondents who have the requisite understanding and knowledge in green cities using questionnaires. The data gathered was then analysed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis viz principal component analysis.

Findings

The socioeconomic factors affecting green city development comprised: Green support mechanisms (i.e. innovation and technology, green city planning (urban planning), stakeholder engagement, awareness, city planning (transportation) and environmental regulations); green inhibitors (i.e. population, culture, housing and policy implementation); green market and finance (i.e. digital finance, green market mechanism, green investment finance, risks and uncertainties, income levels of clients). It was evident that socioeconomic factors are significant to the development of green cities in Ghana and hence policy makers and various stakeholders should prioritize socioeconomic factors in the bid to achieve sustainability through green cities in the construction industry.

Originality/value

This paper presents a foremost and comprehensive study on the socioeconomic factors affecting green cities in Ghana. The study results showed that even though the path to sustainability in green cities has pivoted mainly on environmental factors, socioeconomic factors are also significant to green city development, hence, policy makers and the construction industry should keenly consider the socioeconomic factors affecting green city development in the bid towards sustainability for cities.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 November 2024

Tirivavi Moyo, Mazen Omer, Benviolent Chigara and David J. Edwards

Achieving sustainable construction is immensely challenging in developing economies due to their inadequate technical support system(s) (TSS). Hence, this article develops a TSS…

Abstract

Purpose

Achieving sustainable construction is immensely challenging in developing economies due to their inadequate technical support system(s) (TSS). Hence, this article develops a TSS framework for sustainable construction indicators for Zimbabwe, a developing country.

Design/methodology/approach

A post-positivist philosophical stance and deductive reasoning were adopted to test pertinent theory. Construction professionals in consultancy, construction companies, government bodies and academic institutions participated in an online questionnaire survey. Primary data was analysed using a reliability test, Shapiro Wilks test, Kruskal–Wallis H test, mean score ranking, normalisation value, factor analysis and fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE).

Findings

FSE revealed a framework with six critical technical support subgroups, in order of importance viz: innovation for construction sustainability; adequate sustainability expenditure and skills training support; adequate project economic assessment and governance support; adequate circularity and environmental technical support; climate change literacy and supplier assessment support; and adequate decent work support. Existing sustainable construction initiatives can be buttressed by strengthening the six identified TSS through related policy initiatives.

Originality/value

The framework developed constitutes an innovative TSS for Zimbabwe to achieve sustainable construction.

Details

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

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 16 October 2023

Emmanuel Dele Omopariola, Abimbola Olukemi Windapo, David John Edwards, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Sunday Ukwe-Nya Yakubu and Onimisi Obari

Previous studies have postulated that an advance payment system (APS) positively impacts the contractor's working capital and is paramount to ensuring an efficient and effective…

1685

Abstract

Purpose

Previous studies have postulated that an advance payment system (APS) positively impacts the contractor's working capital and is paramount to ensuring an efficient and effective project cash flow process. However, scant research has been undertaken to empirically establish the cash flow performance and domino effect of APS on project and organisational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The epistemological design adopted a positivist philosophical stance augmented by deductive reasoning to explore the phenomena under investigation. Primary quantitative data were collected from 504 Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) registered contractors (within the grade bandings 1–9) in South Africa. A five-point Likert scale was utilised, and subsequent data accrued were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM).

Findings

Emergent findings reveal that the mandatory use of an APS does not guarantee a positive project cash flow, an improvement in organisational performance or an improvement in project performance.

Practical implications

The ensuing discussion reveals the contributory influence of APS on positive cash flow and organisational performance, although APS implementation alone will not achieve these objectives. Practically, the research accentuates the need for various measures to be concurrently adopted (including APS) towards ensuring a positive project cash flow and improved organisational and project performance.

Originality/value

There is limited empirical research on cash flow performance and the domino effect of APS on project and organisational performance in South Africa, nor indeed, the wider geographical location of Africa as a continent. This study addresses this gap in the prevailing body of knowledge.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 13
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 11 November 2024

Osama Akram Amin Metwally Hussien, Krison Hasanaj, Anil Kaya, Hamid Jahankhani and Sara El-Deeb

Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the field of hiring, enabling employers to collect and analyse massive amounts of data to understand and predict the suitability of…

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the field of hiring, enabling employers to collect and analyse massive amounts of data to understand and predict the suitability of candidates. However, AI can also have subconscious effects on candidates’ and employers needs through biased data, which can stem from human biases, algorithmic errors or external factors. For example, Amazon scrapped an AI-based recruitment programme that favoured male candidates over female candidates due to the historical patterns in the resumes it analysed. This paper examines how AI can shape candidate's needs through biased data from various sources and types, and what are the consequences for candidate's welfare and rights. We review the literature on AI applications in hiring, the origins and kinds of bias in AI systems, and the potential risks and benefits for candidates. We also suggest some guidelines for reducing bias in AI and enabling candidates to make informed and ethical choices online. We argue that AI can be a double-edged sword for candidate's needs and that more research and regulation are required to ensure its fair and accountable use.

Details

Market Grooming
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83549-001-3

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 August 2024

Endang Retno Surjaningrum, Edi Dwi Riyanto, Junaidah Yusof and Husnual Mujahadah

This study aims to investigate the feasibility of health cadres in Indonesia to take perinatal depression screening in the community using Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the feasibility of health cadres in Indonesia to take perinatal depression screening in the community using Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Whooley.

Design/methodology/approach

The field study involved 11 health cadres (community volunteers who assist in maternal and child health) who were trained to administrate EPDS and Whooley towards 36 pregnant and postpartum mothers in a low resource urban setting for a month. A comparison of scores from both tools, the number and type of mistakes made by the cadres, and cadres perception about the tools were combined to determine the most feasible tool for cadres in identifying depression symptoms.

Findings

The results show both tools are comparable for screening depression symptoms in mothers; however, EPDS was better at differentiating the level of symptoms. Whooley, with two case-finding questions, is simpler for cadres, whereas the EPDS is more difficult to be computed by cadres. Cadres support the implementation of such a screening, as it provides a channel for mothers to express their negative feelings.

Research limitations/implications

The findings indicate Whooley is sufficient for first-level screening in the community by cadres, whereas the EPDS should be used by qualified health-care workers for further evaluation at primary health clinics.

Practical implications

Health cadres could potentially be trained to use standardized yet simple psychological tools. Involving trained health cadres in integrated maternal mental health services in primary health care in Surabaya, Indonesia is promising.

Originality/value

The use of the EPDS and the Whooley questions has not been applied in Indonesia particularly among health cadres despite their long-lasting role in primary health-care system.

Details

Journal of Public Mental Health, vol. 23 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-5729

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 October 2024

Xiaoyu Xu, Syed Muhammad Usman Tayyab, Xin (Robert) Luo, Frank C. Lee and Qingdan Jia

There is a dearth of knowledge regarding how user dependency offers valuable resources to develop the intellectual capital of social streaming apps (SSAs) companies. This study…

Abstract

Purpose

There is a dearth of knowledge regarding how user dependency offers valuable resources to develop the intellectual capital of social streaming apps (SSAs) companies. This study aims to integrate major conceptual components of the UandD model, identify contextualized goal-oriented SSA dependency and empirically evaluate their interrelated user-dependency relationships in the SSA context.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-methods approach was utilized in this study. First, user gratifications were elicited through a qualitative approach, considering the exploratory stage of the SSA phenomenon. Second, statistical methods were applied to investigate and extract the sub-dimensions of SSA dependency. At last, a research model was developed grounded on the UandD model and empirically validated using the quantitative approach.

Findings

The results validated the gratification-dependency-attitude-behavior relationships hypothesized by the UandD framework in SSA. The role of user-SSA dependency in enhancing intellectual capital in the social media industry has been highlighted in this study.

Research limitations/implications

This research not only provides an opportunity for the UandD model to realize its theoretical potential as envisioned by scholars but also contributes to the scholarship on social streaming apps and media dependency theory by conceptualizing goal-oriented dependency in SSAs.

Practical implications

The research results will guide digital media practitioners to a more nuanced understanding of the relationships between their users and modern digital media apps and thus empower the practitioners to better manage their intellectual capital based on the facilitation of their users’ dependency.

Originality/value

This work is one of the pioneers in contextualizing the UandD model in the SSA field, refining and measuring the SSA dependency and its distinct subdimensions and employing mixed-methods to offer a comprehensive understanding of how user dependency boosts intellectual capital in the SSA industry.

Details

Journal of Intellectual Capital, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1469-1930

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 October 2024

Dana Yagil

In light of the increasing prevalence of non-human services, organizations can benefit by emphasizing distinctively human qualities in their services. This paper suggests that…

Abstract

Purpose

In light of the increasing prevalence of non-human services, organizations can benefit by emphasizing distinctively human qualities in their services. This paper suggests that cultivating virtues among employees can enhance the value of human-provided services.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper incorporates ideas from management and service research examining the notion of virtue as well as human qualities that are associated with virtuousness. The paper builds upon service research, which emphasizes the important role of human elements in service interaction, along with extensive research in positive organizational scholarship, which characterizes virtues as the finest attributes of human nature.

Findings

The paper introduces “service virtuousness,” the voluntary and authentic expression of human virtues like compassion and creativity in service delivery, treating customers as individuals beyond their formal roles. A review of the literature reveals how virtuousness appears in services. The study also identifies when it is most beneficial, explores the challenges in its implementation, and suggests future research directions.

Originality/value

The paper offers a novel concept for service research grounded in core human values. Although service virtuousness does not focus on outcomes, it offers numerous benefits to all parties involved in the service setting. The theoretical framework for studying service virtuousness provides new opportunities to identify the conditions in which virtuousness is most beneficial in a service context.

Details

Journal of Service Management, vol. 35 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-5818

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 26 November 2024

Kelsey Leonard

The purpose of this article is to untangle the influence of Linda Tuhiwai Smith’s Decolonizing Methodologies on botanical gardens, particularly in the context of commemorating 25…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to untangle the influence of Linda Tuhiwai Smith’s Decolonizing Methodologies on botanical gardens, particularly in the context of commemorating 25 years since its publication. By examining the intersections between decolonial theory and botanical practices, this article seeks to elucidate the ways in which Smith’s work has informed and inspired efforts to decolonize botanical research, conservation and education. Through a narrative review and case study analysis, this article highlights key insights, challenges and opportunities for botanical gardens to embrace decolonial practices and foster more equitable and inclusive relationships with Indigenous communities, science and knowledge systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The design and methodology of this article involve a narrative literature review and comparative case study analysis (Petticrew and Roberts, 2006; Goodrick, 2014). The review synthesizes scholarly articles, books and reports on decolonizing botanical practices, focusing on literature that stems from Indigenous science, identifies engagement strategies and advocates for systemic change within botanical institutions. Key themes and recommendations are identified and analyzed to provide insights into future directions for decolonizing botanical gardens. This approach allows for a thorough examination of current discourse and best practices in decolonial theory and botanical research, informing actionable recommendations for advancing decolonization within botanical gardens.

Findings

The findings reveal that Linda Tuhiwai Smith’s Decolonizing Methodologies has significantly influenced botanical gardens, inspiring efforts to prioritize Indigenous knowledge systems, deepen community engagement and advocate for systemic change. While progress has been made in integrating decolonial practices, challenges persist, including the need for greater institutional commitment, capacity building and accountability. However, opportunities abound for botanical gardens to continue advancing decolonization, particularly through partnerships with Indigenous communities, educational outreach and policy advocacy. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of ongoing reconciliation and action in cultivating more equitable and respectful relationships that advance principles of Indigenous data sovereignty and governance.

Research limitations/implications

While this article offers valuable insights into the influence of Linda Tuhiwai Smith’s Decolonizing Methodologies on botanical gardens, several limitations must be acknowledged. Firstly, the literature review may not document all relevant transformations undertaken by gardens to date if such initiatives are not documented in the public domain, such as institutional websites. Additionally, the review primarily focuses on English-language literature, limiting the exploration of decolonial practices for botanical gardens in non-English-speaking contexts.

Practical implications

This article holds several practical implications for botanical gardens seeking to decolonize. Firstly, by prioritizing Indigenous knowledge and deepening community engagement, botanical gardens can foster more inclusive and respectful relationships with Indigenous communities. Secondly, advocating for systemic change and policy reforms will address institutionalized inequities and recognize Indigenous People’s rights, including biocultural and intellectual property. Additionally, investing in educational outreach and capacity-building initiatives can enhance institutional and public understanding of decolonization. Overall, embracing decolonial practices can contribute to the adoption and advancement of Indigenous Data Sovereignty and the CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance within botanical gardens and beyond.

Social implications

This article highlights the importance of decolonizing botanical gardens for promoting justice and equity. By centering Indigenous rights to data sovereignty, such as attribution of traditional and biocultural knowledge, botanical gardens can contribute to reconciliation efforts and promote respect for Indigenous rights and sovereignty. Additionally, addressing colonial legacies and systemic inequalities within botanical institutions can advance botanical justice and help build more just and equitable societies. Moreover, this transformation also aligns with a growing legal movement recognizing the inherent rights of Nature, including plant relatives collected, stored and stewarded by botanic gardens.

Originality/value

This article contributes to the literature by exploring the intersection of decolonizing methodologies and botanic gardens, particularly in the context of Linda Tuhiwai Smith’s influential work. By synthesizing key insights and offering actionable recommendations, this review provides guidance on future directions botanic gardens can follow to advance their decolonization strategies and initiatives in furtherance of botanical justice.

Details

Qualitative Research Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1443-9883

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 November 2023

Robert Kurniawan, Novan Adi Adi Nugroho, Ahmad Fudholi, Agung Purwanto, Bagus Sumargo, Prana Ugiana Gio and Sri Kuswantono Wongsonadi

The purpose of this paper is to determine the effect of the industrial sector, renewable energy consumption and nonrenewable energy consumption in Indonesia on the ecological…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the effect of the industrial sector, renewable energy consumption and nonrenewable energy consumption in Indonesia on the ecological footprint from 1990 to 2020 in the short and long term.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses vector error correction model (VECM) analysis to examine the relationship in the short and long term. In addition, the impulse response function is used to enable future forecasts up to 2060 of the ecological footprint as a measure of environmental degradation caused by changes or shocks in industrial value-added, renewable energy consumption and nonrenewable energy consumption. Furthermore, forecast error decomposition of variance (FEVD) analysis is carried out to predict the percentage contribution of each variable’s variance to changes in a specific variable. Granger causality testing is used to enhance the analysis outcomes within the framework of VECM.

Findings

Using VECM analysis, the speed of adjustment for environmental damage is quite high in the short term, at 246%. This finding suggests that when there is a short-term imbalance in industrial value-added, renewable energy consumption and nonrenewable energy consumption, the ecological footprint experiences a very rapid adjustment, at 246%, to move towards long-term balance. Then, in the long term, the ecological footprint in Indonesia is most influenced by nonrenewable energy consumption. This is also confirmed by the Granger causality test and the results of FEVD, which show that the contribution of nonrenewable energy consumption will be 10.207% in 2060 and will be the main contributor to the ecological footprint in the coming years to achieve net-zero emissions in 2060. In the long run, renewable energy consumption has a negative effect on the ecological footprint, whereas industrial value-added and nonrenewable energy consumption have a positive effect.

Originality/value

For the first time, value added from the industrial sector is being used alongside renewable and nonrenewable energy consumption to measure Indonesia’s ecological footprint. The primary cause of Indonesia’s alarming environmental degradation is the industrial sector, which acts as the driving force behind this issue. Consequently, this contribution is expected to inform the policy implications required to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2060, aligned with the G20 countries’ Bali agreement of 2022.

Details

International Journal of Energy Sector Management, vol. 18 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6220

Keywords

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