Nadeem Rais, Akash Ved, Rizwan Ahmad, Kehkashan Parveen and Mohd. Shadab
Renal failure is an end-stage consequence after persistent hyperglycemia during diabetic nephropathy (DN), and the etiology of DN has been linked to oxidative stress. The purpose…
Abstract
Purpose
Renal failure is an end-stage consequence after persistent hyperglycemia during diabetic nephropathy (DN), and the etiology of DN has been linked to oxidative stress. The purpose of this research was to determine the beneficial synergistic effects of S-Allyl Cysteine (SAC) and Taurine (TAU) on oxidative damage in the kidneys of type 2 diabetic rats induced by hyperglycemia.
Design/methodology/approach
Experimental diabetes was developed by administering intraperitoneal single dose of streptozotocin (STZ; 65 mg/kg) with nicotinamide (NA; 230 mg/kg) in adult rats. Diabetic and control rats were treated with SAC (150 mg/kg), TAU (200 mg/kg) or SAC and TAU combination (75 + 100 mg/kg) for four weeks. The estimation of body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBG), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), oxidative stress markers along with kidney histopathology was done to investigate the antidiabetic potential of SAC/TAU in the NA/STZ diabetic group.
Findings
The following results were obtained for the therapeutic efficacy of SAC/TAU: decrease in blood glucose level, decreased level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and increased levels of GSH, glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT). SAC/TAU significantly modulated diabetes-induced histological changes in the kidney of rats.
Originality/value
SAC/TAU combination therapy modulated the oxidative stress markers in the kidney in diabetic rat model and also prevented oxidative damage as observed through histopathological findings.
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Amin Pujiati, Triani Nurbaeti and Nadia Damayanti
This paper aims to identify variables that determine the differing levels of environmental quality on Java and other islands in Indonesia.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to identify variables that determine the differing levels of environmental quality on Java and other islands in Indonesia.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a quantitative approach, secondary data were sourced from the Central Statistics Agency and the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. The data were obtained through the collection of documentation from 33 provinces in Indonesia. The analytical approach used was discriminant analysis. The research variables are Trade Openness, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), industry, HDI and population growth.
Findings
The variables that distinguish between the levels of environmental quality in Indonesian provinces on the island of Java and on other islands are Industry, HDI, FDI and population growth. The openness variable is not a differentiating variable for environmental quality. The most powerful variable as a differentiator of environmental quality on Java Island and on other islands is the Industry variable.
Research limitations/implications
This study has not classified the quality of the environment based on the Ministry of Environment and Forestry's categories, namely, the very good, good, quite good, poor, very poor and dangerous. For this reason, further research is needed using multiple discriminant analysis (MDA).
Practical implications
Industry is the variable that most strongly distinguishes between levels of environmental quality on Java and other island, while the industrial sector is the largest contributor to gross regional domestic product (GDRP). Government policy to develop green technology is mandatory so that there is no trade-off between industry and environmental quality.
Originality/value
This study is able to identify the differentiating variables of environmental quality in two different groups, on Java and on the other islands of the Indonesian archipelago.
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Stewart Selase Hevi, Clemence Dupey Agbenorxevi, Ebenezer Malcalm, Nicodemus Osei Owusu, Gladys Nkrumah and Charity Osei
This paper investigates the moderating-mediation roles of synchronous and asynchronous learning, as well as virtual self-efficacy between digital learning space experience and…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper investigates the moderating-mediation roles of synchronous and asynchronous learning, as well as virtual self-efficacy between digital learning space experience and continuous use among learners in Ghanaian institutions of higher learning.
Design/methodology/approach
A convenience sampling technique was used in the selection of 604 students who answered questions on digital learning space experience, synchronous and asynchronous learning, virtual self-efficacy and learner continuous use within the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. The study employed regression analysis to measure the hypothesized paths.
Findings
The findings show that asynchronous learning partially mediates between digital learning space experience and learner continuous use, but the mediating effect of synchronous learning between digital learning space experience and learner continuous use was not significant. Further, virtual self-efficacy significantly moderates the mediated relationship between asynchronous learning and learner continuous use, but the moderated mediated role of synchronous learning was not established in the study.
Research limitations/implications
Generalization of the study findings is limited due to the sampling scope, which was restricted to students of IHL in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana.
Originality/value
In this research, the academic scope of digital transformation was expanded from both digital structure elements and psychological perspectives within the domain of higher education literature.
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Sri Yogi Kottala, Ch Shankar and Atul Kumar Sahu
This study aims to present an integrated green transport sustainability model (GTSM) to comprehensively understand and explain the multifaceted dynamics of green transport…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to present an integrated green transport sustainability model (GTSM) to comprehensively understand and explain the multifaceted dynamics of green transport initiatives. The purpose of the study is to evaluate gaps in understanding the interactions between socio-economic and environmental goals in green transport systems using structural equation modelling (SEM) to help in drafting sustainable transportation policy for larger acceptance and true implementation by the stakeholders. The study examines different constructs that collectively influence green transport policy effectiveness (GTPE). Ultimately, the study aims to provide a robust framework for improving the effectiveness of green transport policies and regulations.
Design/methodology/approach
Grounded in empirical evidence, the study utilizes SEM to demonstrate the interplay between policymaking, socio-economic factors, technological consideration and environmental outcomes in green transport. The research framework is developed based on the comprehensive review of the literatures to embrace sustainability in transportation considering stakeholders perceptions. The study navigated a GTSM under socio-economic and environmental goals for road-mapping sustainability and larger acceptance of green transportation.
Findings
It is found that technological advancements in transportation are the most significant determinants of GTPE. This implies the need to develop advancements in technologies to embrace the larger acceptance of green transport. Promotion of environmentally sustainable transportation practices, socio-economic factors and use of eco-friendly transportation modes are also found as significant predictors of GTPE, which suggested that the policies aimed at up-gradation of socio-economic standards and the use of environment friendly modes of transport can help in promoting the active involvement of stakeholders to use green transportation.
Originality/value
The study originally investigated critical constructs to assist in preparing sustainable transportation policy for larger acceptance and true implementation by the stakeholders. The study reciprocated its originality by presenting an integrated model related with green transport sustainability dimensions based on theoretical constructs to examine the interplay between policy effectiveness, technological advancements, socio-economic factors and environmental outcomes. The study addressed the key pillars of green transportation and originally highlighted the importance of socio-economic factors and technological advancements in advancing green transport sustainability. It is recommended that the policymaker should make investments in green transport infrastructure and should design a policy for integration of green transportation with a focus on the engagement of all stakeholders for practical implementations.
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Sarfaraz Javed, Azam Malik and Mutaz Minwer Hala Alharbi
Managerial effectiveness is considered as an essential element for sustainable development and competitive advantage for organisations, and its core conceptualisation revolves…
Abstract
Purpose
Managerial effectiveness is considered as an essential element for sustainable development and competitive advantage for organisations, and its core conceptualisation revolves around the capability of management to manage self, subordinates and relationships. However, very few research addressed this important phenomenon; this study aims to fill this gap by investigating the mediating role of Islamic work ethics between leadership styles and managerial effectiveness.
Design/methodology/approach
Data collection was done through a structured questionnaire, and the hypothesized relationships were tested with the help of SmartPLS.
Findings
Results of the statistical analysis showed that transformational and transactional leadership styles are positively associated with managerial effectiveness. Also, Islamic work ethics mediated the association between transactional leadership and managerial effectiveness, and however, no mediation effect of Islamic work ethics was found in the relationship of transformational leadership and managerial effectiveness
Originality/value
Although volumes of research have been conducted into the nature of management and leadership over the past 50 years or so, there have been significant shortcomings in terms of little attention having been given to the issue of managerial effectiveness, lack of generalizability of findings and lack of relevance and utility; thus, this study contributed to human resource management literature by providing a macro-level model to measure managerial effectiveness.
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Ali Asgar and Rampelli Satyanarayana
This paper seeks to ascertain the effectiveness of a two-week-long faculty development programme (FDP), organized by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), for teachers…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper seeks to ascertain the effectiveness of a two-week-long faculty development programme (FDP), organized by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), for teachers of the open and distance learning (ODL) system, with the aim of upgrading their knowledge and skills for developing print self-learning materials (SLMs). The specific aim of this study is to ascertain whether the objectives of the FDP have been achieved, to examine the effectiveness of the training programme and to suggest measures for improvement in future FDPs regarding the design and development of print SLMs.
Design/methodology/approach
The study was conducted using a descriptive survey research method, through semi-structured questionnaires and adopted purposive sampling. The first survey was conducted immediately after the completion of the programme, in order to collect feedback from the trainees, while the second survey was conducted after six months of the FDP, using the follow-up approach, so that more reliable and authentic results could be obtained.
Findings
The outcomes of the study revealed that the training had been effective in imparting appropriate knowledge and skills to the trainees, with respect to designing print SLMs. However, certain gaps were also identified and have been reported in this paper. Key suggestions have been made to address the shortcomings and improve forthcoming FDPs.
Research limitations/implications
The present research focused on a specific training programme regarding the design and development of SLMs. Therefore, only the teachers and academics who participated in this specialized training activity were considered for the collection of feedback.
Practical implications
The recommendations of this work may be useful for the trainers, FDP coordinators, training institutions and ODL policymakers for planning and designing effective staff development activities for teachers and academics working in ODL institutions. These would be especially useful in the design of FDPs, aimed at orienting teachers who are involved in curriculum planning, design and development of learning resources.
Originality/value
This study is an original research based on the empirical primary data obtained by the researchers. As the largest open university in the world, IGNOU has been playing a key role in staff development for and in ODL in developing countries. This evaluative study of a specialized FDP in the area of SLM design and development is a significant work that may be valuable for planning the staff development strategies and building a training evaluation mechanism.
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Mohammad Reza Shokouhi, Mohammad Torabi, Rasoul Salimi and Parisa Hajiloo
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers are often faced with a range of ethical dilemmas in their line of work that require moral courage to make a quick and ethical decision…
Abstract
Purpose
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers are often faced with a range of ethical dilemmas in their line of work that require moral courage to make a quick and ethical decision. The purpose of this study is to investigate the level of professional moral courage (PMC) in EMS providers and its relationship with their demographic characteristics.
Design/methodology/approach
In 2022, a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 175 EMS providers at the Hamadan Emergency Medical Center. The study utilized an available sampling method. Data was collected using a demographic information form and Sekerka's moral courage questionnaire, which was distributed electronically. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS 26 software with descriptive and analytic tests.
Findings
According to the findings, the average age of the participants was 34.57 ± 3.46 years. The majority of participants were married (50.3%), had work experience ranging from 8 to 14 years (49.7%), and held a degree in emergency medicine (52.6%). The participants displayed a high level of PMC, with an average score of 62.5 ± 8.14. Notably, age, work experience, educational level, and employment status were all found to have a significant relationship with moral courage (p < 0.05) among the demographic characteristics.
Research limitations/implications
The study has a limitation in terms of the sampling method employed, which may impact the generalizability of the results. Another limitation, by a narrow margin, is that the sample size is smaller than what was estimated. Furthermore, using various measurement tools to assess PMC might lead to varying outcomes. Consequently, it is recommended that future research incorporates random sampling and devises a dedicated psychometric instrument to assess the PMC of EMS providers.
Originality/value
The results revealed a positive correlation between work experience and PMC among providers. This can be attributed to the challenges and outcomes they have encountered throughout their careers. Moreover, EMS providers with higher educational qualifications and job stability demonstrated higher levels of moral courage.