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1 – 10 of 22Ali Hashemi, Hamed Taheri and Mohammad Dehghani
To prevent the coil from burning or getting damaged, it is necessary to estimate the duration of its operation as long as its temperature does not exceed the permissible limit…
Abstract
Purpose
To prevent the coil from burning or getting damaged, it is necessary to estimate the duration of its operation as long as its temperature does not exceed the permissible limit. This paper aims to investigate the effect of switching on the thermal behavior of impregnated and nonimpregnated windings. Also, the safe operating time for each winding is determined.
Design/methodology/approach
The power loss of the winding is expressed as a function of the winding specifications. Using homogenization techniques, the equivalent thermal properties for the homogenized winding are calculated and used in a proposed thermal equivalent circuit for winding modeling and analysis. The validity and accuracy of the proposed model are determined by comparing its analysis results and simulation and measurement results.
Findings
The results show that copper windings have better thermal behavior and lower temperature compared to aluminum windings. On the other hand, by impregnating or increasing the packing factor of the winding, the thermal behavior is improved. Also, by choosing the right duty cycle for the winding current source, it is possible to prevent the burning or damage of the winding and increase its lifespan. Comparing the measurement results with the analysis results shows that the proposed equivalent circuit has an error of less than 4% in the calculation of the winding center temperature.
Research limitations/implications
In this paper, the effect of temperature on the electrical resistance of the coil is ignored. Also, rectangular wires were not investigated. Research in these topics are considered as future work.
Originality/value
By calculating the thermal time constant of the winding, its safe operation time can be calculated so that its temperature does not exceed the tolerable value (150 °C). The proposed method analyzes both impregnated and nonimpregnated windings with various schemes. It investigates the effects of switching on their thermal behavior. Additionally, it determines the safe operating time for each type of winding.
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Husam Jasim Mohammed, Qasim Ali Mohammed and Mustafa Hatwan Rhima
The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of perceived healthcare service quality (human aspects, technical aspects and tangible aspects) on satisfaction and guest…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of perceived healthcare service quality (human aspects, technical aspects and tangible aspects) on satisfaction and guest loyalty in the hotel industry in the COVID-19 pandemic era.
Design/methodology/approach
A total of 130 guests in the hotel were selected purposively in Iraq. Data from self-administered questionnaires were analyzed through the VB-SEM statistical technique using Smart-PLS software towards testing the hypotheses.
Findings
The findings indicated that perceived service quality influences satisfaction and guest loyalty of guests in the hotel. This study reveals that human aspects, technical aspects and tangible aspects directly positively affect satisfaction and guest loyalty in the hotel industry.
Originality/value
This study highlights that perceived service quality (human aspects, technical aspects and tangible aspects) are vital and practical strategic tools that could be positioned to accelerate guest loyalty in the hotel industry. Furthermore, satisfaction mediates the relationship between human aspects, technical aspects, tangible aspects and guest loyalty.
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Nazia Hasan, Anjani Kumar Singh, Manoj Kumar Agarwal and Bijay Prasad Kushwaha
The goal of this research is to look at how urban microfinance affects livelihood transformation in terms of poverty reduction, living standards, social well-being, empowerment…
Abstract
Purpose
The goal of this research is to look at how urban microfinance affects livelihood transformation in terms of poverty reduction, living standards, social well-being, empowerment and entrepreneurship.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper analyses the role of urban microfinance towards livelihood with special reference to Western Uttar Pradesh. Primary data were collected from 321 respondents who are users of a microfinance programme using a standardised questionnaire. The data were collected using a stratified random sampling technique, and the data were analysed using structural equation modelling.
Findings
Urban microfinance has a considerable impact on poverty reduction, the standard of living, social well-being, empowerment and entrepreneurship in the urban poor, according to the findings.
Research limitations/implications
The fact that the majority of the borrowers were uneducated was the most significant barrier to them filling out the questionnaire. Their anxiety was the most significant psychological obstacle to successfully answering the questions, and it took time. As a result, it is urged that proper counselling be conducted before the poor borrowers fill out the questionnaire.
Practical implications
The current study highlights the factors that lead to the utilisation of microfinance services. This research will aid MFIs in selecting the appropriate products and services for the urban poor. The results of this study will aid them in understanding and meeting the expectations of microfinance CEOs.
Originality/value
This is a first study conducted in Northern zone of India measuring the roles urban microfinance institutions (MFIs) in uplifting the livelihood of urban poor.
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Pengyun Zhao, Shoufeng Ji and Yuanyuan Ji
This paper aims to introduce a novel structure for the physical internet (PI)–enabled sustainable supplier selection and inventory management problem under uncertain environments.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to introduce a novel structure for the physical internet (PI)–enabled sustainable supplier selection and inventory management problem under uncertain environments.
Design/methodology/approach
To address hybrid uncertainty both in the objective function and constraints, a novel interactive hybrid multi-objective optimization solution approach combining Me-based fuzzy possibilistic programming and interval programming approaches is tailored.
Findings
Various numerical experiments are introduced to validate the feasibility of the established model and the proposed solution method.
Originality/value
Due to its interconnectedness, the PI has the opportunity to support firms in addressing sustainability challenges and reducing initial impact. The sustainable supplier selection and inventory management have become critical operational challenges in PI-enabled supply chain problems. This is the first attempt on this issue, which uses the presented novel interactive possibilistic programming method.
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Prihana Vasishta, Ankita Dhiman, Shagun Smith and Anju Singla
This study systematically reviews the role of decentralized finance (DeFi) in enhancing the quality, affordability, access and usage of financial services, specifically targeting…
Abstract
Purpose
This study systematically reviews the role of decentralized finance (DeFi) in enhancing the quality, affordability, access and usage of financial services, specifically targeting underserved populations. The aim is to investigate DeFi’s potential in addressing financial exclusion and promoting global financial inclusion.
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review was conducted, analyzing 67 peer-reviewed articles. The review focused on extracting actionable insights and recommendations regarding DeFi’s impact on financial inclusion.
Findings
The study reveals that DeFi, through the utilization of blockchain technology, can significantly improve accessibility, affordability and usability of financial services. By eliminating intermediaries and reducing entry barriers, DeFi platforms democratize finance and support financial inclusion on a global scale. The research identifies specific mechanisms through which DeFi can enhance financial services for marginalized communities, including decentralized lending, digital wallets and blockchain-based remittances.
Research limitations/implications
The study is constrained by the current literature and data availability on DeFi’s impact on financial inclusion. Future research should explore the scalability, sustainability and long-term effects of DeFi solutions in diverse contexts.
Originality/value
This research uniquely contributes to the literature by examining the intersection of DeFi and financial inclusion, providing innovative approaches to overcoming financial exclusion. The study highlights DeFi’s potential to transform financial services and empower underserved populations economically.
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Rashed Jahangir and Mehmet Bulut
This study aims to propose a model to elevate the financial empowerment of Muslim women by rejuvenating the practice of Mahr in society and facilitating the affordability of men…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to propose a model to elevate the financial empowerment of Muslim women by rejuvenating the practice of Mahr in society and facilitating the affordability of men to pay that Mahr amount.
Design/methodology/approach
The approach of this study is to offer a model through the interest-free savings-based finance concept. The model comprises four stages; each stage of the model is mathematically formulated and graphically explained to ensure clarity and coherence. To further investigate the issue, the authors use a convenient sampling method to ask a small sample size of respondents (women) from different countries about their financial contribution and empowerment in the family.
Findings
This model enables women to turn their exclusive financial right into a source of earning without borrowing from any source or paying interest on the principal amount. Besides, it encourages accelerating men’s obligation to pay the Mahr to the women immediately during the marriage ceremony by facilitating men’s affordability. Almost 45% of respondents state that a woman’s financial contribution exalts her decision-making power and strengthens her financial position in the family.
Social implications
The authors attempt to revitalize Mahr practice in Muslim society to accelerate the process of receiving a woman’s exclusive financial right and empower a family as a whole through the Mahr model.
Originality/value
Considering the model’s uniqueness, the developed and proposed Mahr model in this research is novel; to the best of the authors’ knowledge, no other study has been conducted and developed such a model using the Mahr concept.
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Ayad Alameeri, Gholamreza Abdollahzadeh and Seyedkomeil Hashemiheidari
This study aims to determine the effect of replacing a portion of the cement in the concrete mixture with silica fume (SF) on the corrosion resistance of reinforcing bars, the…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to determine the effect of replacing a portion of the cement in the concrete mixture with silica fume (SF) on the corrosion resistance of reinforcing bars, the compressive strength of concrete and the tensile strength of hook bars in both corroded and non-corroded external joints of structures. The external beam-column connection was studied because of its critical role in maintaining structural continuity in all three directions and providing resistance to rotation.
Design/methodology/approach
In external concrete joints, the bars at the end of the beams are often bent at 90° to form hooks that embed in columns. Owing to the importance of embedding distance and the need to understand its susceptibility to corrosion damage from chloride attack, a series of experiments were conducted on 12 specimens that accurately simulate real-site conditions in terms of dimensions, reinforcement and hook bars. SF was replaced with 10% and 15% of the weight of cement in the concrete mixture. To simulate corrosion, the specimens were subjected to accelerated corrosion in the laboratory by applying a low continuous current of 0.35 mA for 58 days.
Findings
The results revealed the effect of SF in improving the compressive strength of concrete, the pullout resistance of the hook bars and the corrosion resistance. In addition, it showed an apparent effect of the corrosion of reinforcing bars in reducing the bonding strength of hook bars with concrete and the effect of SF in improving this strength.
Originality/value
It was noted that the improvement of the results, achieved by replacing 10% of the weight of cement with SF, was significantly close to the results obtained by replacing 15% of the SF. It is recommended that an SF ratio of 10% be adopted to achieve the greatest economic savings.
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Fatemeh Ghaemi, Maryam Emadzadeh, Ali H. Eid, Tannaz Jamialahmadi and Amirhossein Sahebkar
The purpose of this meta-analysis was to examine the effect of pomegranate juice (PJ) intake on glycemic control in adults.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this meta-analysis was to examine the effect of pomegranate juice (PJ) intake on glycemic control in adults.
Design/methodology/approach
Materials and methods: PubMed (Medline), ISI Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Scopus databases, measuring glucose and/or insulin and Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) in adults, were searched from inception to December 11, 2021. Moreover, to examine whether grouping factors influenced heterogeneity between research results, subgroup analysis was used.
Findings
This meta-analysis showed that PJ intake reduced HOMA-IR significantly, especially if =250 mL was used. This reducing effect remained significant in females, nondiabetic patients and unhealthy subjects.
Originality/value
The authors believe the presented data would be highly motivating and of a wide readership for the readers of your journal, and this paper stimulating a surge of research on the impact of PJ consumption on glycemic indices.
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Ammar Ali Gull, Umer Iqbal, Abdul Ghafoor and Ammad Ahmed
This study examines the impact of board co-option on environmental innovation and the moderating effect of firms’ industrial context, ESG compensation and environmental policy…
Abstract
Purpose
This study examines the impact of board co-option on environmental innovation and the moderating effect of firms’ industrial context, ESG compensation and environmental policy stringency (EPS) on this relationship. Finally, we examine the implications of the board co-option and eco-innovation nexus on the market value of firms.
Design/methodology/approach
This study employs the system generalized method of moments (GMM) estimator on a longitudinal panel dataset of the US-listed firms to test the proposed hypotheses. The system GMM findings are substantiated using the entropy balancing method and difference-in-differences (DiD) estimations to better establish causality while addressing endogeneity concerns.
Findings
The findings provide evidence that board co-option has a negatively significant relationship with environmental innovation. Further analyses imply that the impact of board co-option on environmental innovation is positively significant among firms operating in environmentally sensitive industries, with ESG compensation for executives, and those operating in environments characterized by high environmental policy stringency. Taken together, these results suggest that industrial context, ESG compensation and environmental policy stringency moderate the impact of board co-option on environmental innovation. The results also reveal that more environmentally innovative firms attain greater market valuation when the board is co-opted.
Originality/value
This study is a novel attempt to contribute to the debate on board composition and its impact on corporate environmental innovation. It complements the existing literature on sustainability governance and accounting by providing an understanding of the impact of board co-option on corporate environmental innovation and highlights the role of regulatory pressure, industrial context and executive compensation structure in shaping this relationship. The findings offer valuable insights for academics, senior management and policymakers.
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Mohsen Mohammadi, Ghiwa Assaf and Rayan H. Assaad
By harnessing technology developments such as Internet-of-Things (IoT)-enabled intelligent sensors and immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences, facility managers can access…
Abstract
Purpose
By harnessing technology developments such as Internet-of-Things (IoT)-enabled intelligent sensors and immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences, facility managers can access real-time, precise information on thermal comfort-related indicators through virtual facility models. While prior research studies have developed key technologies for improving the understanding of thermal comfort and its impact on the occupants’ well-being and productivity, there remain areas yet to be explored, especially in relation to integrating both real-time data from multimodal IoT-enabled smart sensors and VR technologies. Hence, this study demonstrates the potential of integrating IoT and VR technologies for real-time thermal comfort assessment and visualization as well as user interaction with HVAC systems to enhance thermal comfort.
Design/methodology/approach
To develop the proposed integrated analytical framework in this paper, various steps were implemented. First, four multimodal IoT-enabled sensing stations were created and installed to collect real-time thermal comfort-related data (i.e. temperature and relative humidity). Second, a VR environment was developed using the Unity engine to offer an immersive experience. Third, the real-time data from the IoT-enabled sensing stations was integrated into the VR environment by transmitting it to the cloud via the MQTT protocol server, and various programming scripts were developed to provide multiple functionalities to the users, including visualizing the thermal comfort along the entire indoor space as well as interacting with and controlling the cooling and heating HVAC systems. Fourth, the applicability and effectiveness of the developed framework was validated and evaluated by 92 participants using a survey questionnaire.
Findings
The obtained survey results validated the importance and effectiveness of the developed framework on various aspects including graphical satisfaction, spatial presence, involvement, experienced realism, low-to-no cybersickness and overall application satisfaction, among others. More specifically, the findings reflected that the participants’ average scores for graphical satisfaction, sense of spatial presence, involvement and experienced realism were 4.69, 4.61, 4.71 and 4.53 out of 5, respectively. Hence, the results showed that the visualization capabilities of the developed framework serve as a powerful feature that enables a comprehensive visualization of thermal comfort variations across the entire room/office space. Also, the results showed that there were no statistically significant differences between the responses of participants with prior VR experience with those from participants with limited-to-no prior VR experience, thus further highlighting the usefulness of the proposed technology not only for experienced users but also for users from different skills and background.
Originality/value
This research has the potential to revolutionize the way built environments are managed and interacted with, where facility managers can monitor, assess and visualize thermal comfort in real-time as well as interact with the HVAC systems and control multimodal IoT devices in the real-world from a distance through virtual facility models. The proposed framework’s ability to provide dynamic and continuously updated assessments of thermal conditions in real-time positions it as a valuable tool for prompt adjustments to optimize occupants’ comfort levels. Ultimately, the proposed framework provides an intuitive and immersive platform to manage thermal comfort, thus promoting healthier, more productive and eco-friendly indoor environments.
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