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Article
Publication date: 22 October 2024

Michelle N. Crist and Philip S. Brenner

Good Samaritan laws were enacted to reduce overdose deaths by lowering the barriers to reporting for victims and witnesses and allowing law enforcement officers to carry and…

Abstract

Purpose

Good Samaritan laws were enacted to reduce overdose deaths by lowering the barriers to reporting for victims and witnesses and allowing law enforcement officers to carry and administer Narcan to those suspected of an opioid-related overdose The purpose of this study is to understand how officers perceive the impact of opioid overdose reduction initiatives in the United States and their role in the opioid epidemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Mixed methods were used in two phases to examine perceptions among law enforcement officers in a Massachusetts police department. First, qualitative methods were used to interview nine patrol officers during participant observations in the form of ride-alongs. Second, patrol officers and officers who volunteer with the department opioid outreach program were surveyed.

Findings

Officers generally held mixed feelings about the state’s Good Samaritan law. They saw the importance of saving the lives of those experiencing an overdose and keeping other first responders safe, but also in enforcing laws against possession of illegal drugs that presents a public safety threat, including the accidental exposure to fentanyl. Despite mixed feelings, officers still believed it to be important that they are trained and able to administer Narcan since they are often the first to arrive on scene.

Originality/value

This study adds to the research on officers’ perceptions of their role in the opioid epidemic, their ability to administer Narcan and the impact of Good Samaritan laws on their community.

Details

Policing: An International Journal, vol. 48 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1363-951X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 January 2025

Manoj Philip Mathen and Anindita Paul

The aim of this research is to conduct a systematic review of the literature on responsible artificial intelligence (RAI) practices within the domain of AI-based Credit Scoring…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this research is to conduct a systematic review of the literature on responsible artificial intelligence (RAI) practices within the domain of AI-based Credit Scoring (AICS) in banking. This review endeavours to map the existing landscape by identifying the work done so far, delineating the key themes and identifying the focal points of research within this field.

Design/methodology/approach

A database search of Scopus and Web of Science (last 20 years) resulted in 377 articles. This was further filtered for ABDC listing, and augmented with manual search. This resulted in a final list of 53 articles which was investigated further using the TCCM (Theory, Context, Characteristics and Methodology) review protocol.

Findings

The RAI landscape for credit scoring in the banking industry is multifaceted, encompassing ethical, operational and technological dimensions. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in banking is widespread, aiming to enhance efficiency and improve customer experience. Based on the findings of the systematic literature review we found that past studies on AICS have revolved around four major themes: (a) Advances in AI technology; (b) Ethical considerations and fairness; (c) Operational challenges and limitations; and (d) Future directions and potential applications. The authors further propose future directions in RAI in credit scoring.

Originality/value

Earlier studies have focused on AI in banking, credit scoring in isolation. This review attempts to provide deeper insights, facilitating the development of this key field.

Details

Journal of Information, Communication and Ethics in Society, vol. 23 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-996X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 10 December 2024

Ameet Pandit, Fraser McLeay, Moulik M. Zaveri, Jabir Al Mursalin and Philip J. Rosenberger

The emergence of social media platforms has revolutionized how brands develop partnerships with social media influencers (SMIs). However, users are seeking more meaningful…

Abstract

Purpose

The emergence of social media platforms has revolutionized how brands develop partnerships with social media influencers (SMIs). However, users are seeking more meaningful engagement with SMIs, and little is known about how brands can shift their focus from transient engagements to continued engagement that builds long-term brand–consumer relationships. Extant research has provided inconsistent findings regarding consumer engagement behavior. To address this knowledge deficit, we contribute to the consumer engagement literature by developing and testing a conceptual model that explores and explains the relationships between the factors that influence continued engagement intention (CEI), a form of behavioral intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was conducted to identify gaps and develop a theoretically informed conceptual model and hypotheses. Survey data from 604 Instagram SMI followers were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling using SmartPLS 3.3.3 to assess the structural model relationships and conduct post hoc analysis.

Findings

The findings suggest that it is important to positively influence consumer responses to elicit CEI. Furthermore, homophily attitudes toward SMIs moderate the relationship between SMI experience and CEI.

Practical implications

Brands must work with SMIs to create positive SMI experiences and develop CEI. Furthermore, SMIs should focus on brands that fit their lifestyles to enhance homophily attitudes and forge CEI.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by combining social exchange and flow theories to develop and test a holistic framework for examining CEIs regarding SMIs and brands. The findings show that creating positive SMI experiences benefits brands seeking CEI.

Details

Internet Research, vol. 35 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1066-2243

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 July 2023

Nyamagere Gladys Sospeter

The design documents are products of a process that aims to provide sufficient details to enable the contractor to efficiently implement the project at a realistic cost…

Abstract

Purpose

The design documents are products of a process that aims to provide sufficient details to enable the contractor to efficiently implement the project at a realistic cost. Accordingly, it is expected that these design documents must be of high quality to engender the attainment of the desired project objectives. The purpose of this study is to analyze the factors that affect the quality of design documentation in construction projects in the context of a developing country.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a descriptive research design involving professionals from firms offering services in areas of design and documentation, mainly architectural, quantity surveying and engineering. A total of 80 out of 84 questionnaires were received and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 25, and a factor analysis approach was used to categorize the factors into smaller five groups.

Findings

The factors were subsequently categorized according to size, time, staff, quality and training-related factors. Collectively, large size of the project, inadequate supervision of junior design staff, low professional fees, procurement process and system, failure to adopt quality management systems and allocation or assigning of staff to more than one project at the same time have high influence (component loading of 700) in respective groups.

Research limitations/implications

The reliance on data to analyze the factors of design documents in construction projects in developing economies context, using a Tanzanian exemplar, is considered a limitation. Developing countries with similar economic characteristics, procurement systems and cultural setup could benefit from the results of this study.

Practical implications

The study of factors affecting quality of design and documents in construction projects serves as a guide for built environment firms in Tanzania in conducting effective business and ensuring quality design documents, hence improved project performance. Understanding the nature of relationship between the design and construction teams as well as the impact of design documents on project performance is of great importance for the design teams of future projects and other decision-makers to pay attention when preparing design and related documents, especially during design stage of construction projects in developing countries.

Originality/value

The study contributes the knowledge by providing useful insights on the subject through a categorization of the factors affecting the quality of design documentation and exploring the nature of relationship between the design and construction teams in construction projects within a previously unexplored Tanzanian context focusing on a traditional procurement system for future improvement of project delivery, hence project success.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. 23 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 15 May 2024

Sibel Ozasir Kacar

The purpose of this study is to showcase how entrepreneurial opportunities can be contextually formed differently for women entrepreneurs concerning their relationship with…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to showcase how entrepreneurial opportunities can be contextually formed differently for women entrepreneurs concerning their relationship with religion. This article reveals the multi-level and nuanced relationship between religiosity and entrepreneurship through a contextual lens by studying the interaction in a specific national country, Turkiye.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses the life stories of 10 Turkish women entrepreneurs operating in Turkiye. Data were selected purposefully to conduct an in-depth analysis. Thematic content analysis with a discursive approach and deductive and inductive coding methods were performed.

Findings

The findings suggest that the relationship between religiosity and entrepreneurial opportunities is highly contextual and nuanced. Religiosity brings trust and provides access to religious networks which can lead to entrepreneurial opportunities, while leaving people outside of this network bereft of these benefits. The creation of a closed circle for its beneficiaries is a feature of a social network, yet the results show that contextual forces of politics and gender can lead women entrepreneurs outside of this religious network to limit their possibilities of accessing public funding and facilities based on their perceptions as well as negative experiences. It is also seen that religiosity at a certain level is necessary to operate in conservative settings and traditionally masculine business environments with patriarchal practices and norms, as well as due to the religious affinity of the ruling political party. However, because of perceptions and discursive meanings attached to religion and religiosity in the country, women entrepreneurs need to be cautious in expressing their religiosity and find a balance so that they are not seen as unprofessional, incompetent and unqualified as well as do not jeopardise their business due to a controversial religious affiliation.

Originality/value

This paper is of value as it studies religiosity from a contextual perspective enabling and constraining women entrepreneurs in their entrepreneurship in relation to gendered and political structures. In this way, it displays the multiple ways of limitation and support that religiosity can bring for them concerning entrepreneurial opportunities. Turkiye provides a rich context with its mixed religious and secular societal norms and values and neo-liberal institutions and policies to examine the so-far underexplored issue of religiosity in the field of entrepreneurship.

Details

International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research, vol. 31 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2554

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 24 January 2025

Bianca Polo Del Vecchio

The Europe issue was long a basis of intra-party divisions within the Conservative Party, and the 2016 referendum on the United Kingdom's continued membership of the European…

Abstract

The Europe issue was long a basis of intra-party divisions within the Conservative Party, and the 2016 referendum on the United Kingdom's continued membership of the European Union revealed the extent of the divide. The decision of the UK electorate to leave the EU was expected to resolve the issue and allow for a return to unity within the Conservative Party. Yet, under the leadership of Theresa May, divisions on the Europe issue endured. Boris Johnson succeeded, where his predecessors had failed, in restoring intra-party unity. He successfully secured the backing of party members and the electorate, and the loyalty of the parliamentary party, by strategically prioritising the politics of support and placing Brexit at the core of his statecraft. However, it was also the extent to which Johnson was willing to go so as to silence opponents of his Brexit policy that characterised his leadership.

Details

Fragmented Powers
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83608-412-9

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 July 2024

Tapas Sudan and Rashi Taggar

This study presents the impact of Economic Policy Uncertainty (EPU)-induced Trade Supply Chain Vulnerability (TSCV) on the Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in India by…

Abstract

Purpose

This study presents the impact of Economic Policy Uncertainty (EPU)-induced Trade Supply Chain Vulnerability (TSCV) on the Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in India by leveraging the World Bank Enterprise Survey data for 2014 and 2022. Applying econometric techniques, it examines firm size’ influence on productivity and trade participation, providing insights for enhancing SME resilience and trade participation amid uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

The econometric techniques focus on export participation, along with variables such as total exports, firm size, productivity, and capital intensity. It addresses crucial factors such as the direct import of intermediate goods and foreign ownership. Utilizing the Cobb-Douglas production function, the study estimates Total Factor Productivity, mitigating endogeneity and multicollinearity through a two-stage process. Besides, the study uses a case study of North Indian SMEs engaged in manufacturing activities and their adoption of mitigation strategies to combat unprecedented EPU.

Findings

Results reveal that EPU-induced TSCV reduces exports, impacting employment and firm size. Increased productivity, driven by technological adoption, correlates with improved export performance. The study highlights the negative impact of TSCV on trade participation, particularly for smaller Indian firms. Moreover, SMEs implement cost-based, supplier-based, and inventory-based strategies more than technology-based and risk-based strategies.

Practical implications

Policy recommendations include promoting increased imports and inward foreign direct investment to enhance small firms’ trade integration during economic uncertainty. Tailored support for smaller firms, considering their limited capacity, is crucial. Encouraging small firms to engage in international trade and adopting diverse SC mitigation strategies associated with policy uncertainty are vital considerations.

Originality/value

This study explores the impact of EPU-induced TSCV on Indian SMEs’ trade dynamics, offering nuanced insights for policymakers to enhance SME resilience amid uncertainty. The econometric analysis unveils patterns in export behavior, productivity, and factors influencing trade participation during economic uncertainty.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. 74 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 January 2025

Tianjiao Li, Jing Ma, Guangwen Li and Xiaowei Chen

This study aims to replace petroleum-based lubricating oils with sustainable biomaterials, addressing issues associated with existing alternatives, such as poor performance, high…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to replace petroleum-based lubricating oils with sustainable biomaterials, addressing issues associated with existing alternatives, such as poor performance, high cost and limited availability.

Design/methodology/approach

The transformation of agricultural waste cardanol, a nonedible vegetable oil that is abundantly available, into green cardanyl acetate (CA) biolubricating ester oil. The potential of CA as a base stock for lubricants is validated by assessing its lubrication performance.

Findings

CA exhibited a higher viscosity index, flash point and thermal stability than commercially available mineral-based (CTL3, coal-to-liquid) and synthetic (PAO2, poly-alpha-olefin) lubricant base stocks. Moreover, CA exhibits excellent anticorrosivity properties as well as PAO2 and CTL3. The tribological properties of CA were evaluated, and the results show that CA exhibits a smaller average wear scar diameter (WSD) of 0.54 mm than that of PAO2 (0.85 mm) and CTL3 (0.90 mm). In extreme pressure tests, acylated CA demonstrated the highest last nonseizure load capacity at 510 N, outperforming commercial CTL3 (491 N) and PAO2 (412 N). All results demonstrate that CA displays an excellent series of base stock properties.

Originality/value

The novelty of this work lies in the utilization of renewable agricultural waste, cashew nut shell liquid, to produce a high-value biolubricant as an alternative to commercial fossil-based lubricants. The renewable nature, low cost, and large-scale availability of raw materials pave a new path for the production and application of biolubricants, showcasing the immense potential of converting agricultural waste into high-value products.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-03-2024-0064/

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 19 November 2024

Mohammed Alotaibi and Imdadullah Hidayat-ur-Rehman

This study aims to empirically analyze the factors influencing users’ intention to use chatbots for airline ticket consultation. It seeks to introduce a comprehensive framework…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to empirically analyze the factors influencing users’ intention to use chatbots for airline ticket consultation. It seeks to introduce a comprehensive framework based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) that integrates key factors alongside traditional TAM constructs to understand what drives behavioral intention to use chatbots in the context of airline ticket consultation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses the partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach to validate the proposed model empirically. Data were collected through a survey questionnaire distributed to potential users in Saudi Arabia, with 393 valid responses from a total of 409 received being included in the analysis.

Findings

The empirical analysis confirms the significance of perceived usefulness and user satisfaction as direct determinants of behavioral intention. Additionally, it reveals that factors such as perceived ubiquitous access, perceived completeness, perceived accuracy, perceived unbiased response and perceived convenience have both direct and indirect significant impacts on the behavioral intention to use chatbots for airline ticket consultation.

Originality/value

This research advances theoretical understanding and holds practical implications for designing and implementing effective chatbot services. By investigating the complex interplay of these factors, the study makes substantive contributions to both theoretical advancements and practical applications in the field, particularly in enhancing the user experience and acceptance of chatbots for airline ticket consultations.

Details

Journal of Science and Technology Policy Management, vol. 16 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2053-4620

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 January 2025

Mariana Foo, Karel Karsten Himawan and Eko Susanto

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of online brainspotting (BSP) therapy in reducing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and influencing brain metabolism in a…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of online brainspotting (BSP) therapy in reducing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and influencing brain metabolism in a survivor of intimate partner sexual violence.

Design/methodology/approach

A quasi-experimental single-case study using a pretest–posttest design was conducted with clinical assessments and neuroimaging techniques (Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy or H-MRS). The PTSD participant underwent 15 online BSP sessions, with a healthy control included for comparison. PTSD symptoms and neural activity, specifically the N-acetyl aspartate/creatine ratio, were evaluated before and after the intervention.

Findings

The results indicated significant reductions in PTSD symptoms and improvements in neural activity, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, medial prefrontal cortex, dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, hippocampus and amygdala. Reductions in anxiety and depression levels were also observed through clinical assessments. Follow-up sessions confirmed sustained symptom improvement.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size and lack of randomization limit generalizability, and reliance on self-reporting could introduce bias. Future research should involve larger samples, randomized trials and longer follow-up periods.

Practical implications

This study offers preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of online BSP therapy in treating PTSD, highlighting its potential as an accessible treatment option and demonstrating the value of neuroimaging in tracking therapy outcomes.

Originality/value

The study provides novel insights into online BSP’s impact on brain regions associated with trauma and emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive PTSD treatment in Indonesia.

Details

Mental Health Review Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1361-9322

Keywords

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