Pallavi Pradeep Khobragade and Ajay Vikram Ahirwar
The purpose of this study is to monitor suspended particulate matter (SPM), PM2.5 and source apportionment study for the identification of possible sources during the year…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to monitor suspended particulate matter (SPM), PM2.5 and source apportionment study for the identification of possible sources during the year 2018–2019 at Raipur, India.
Design/methodology/approach
Source apportionment study was performed using a multivariate receptor model, positive matrix factorization (PMFv5.0) with a view to identify the various possible sources of particulate matter in the area. Back-trajectory analysis was also performed using NOAA-HYSPLIT model to understand the origin and trans-boundary movement of air mass over the sampling location.
Findings
Daily average SPM and PM2.5 aerosols mass concentration was found to be 377.19 ± 157.24 µg/m³ and 126.39 ± 37.77 µg/m³ respectively. SPM and PM2.5 mass concentrations showed distinct seasonal cycle; SPM – (Winter ; 377.19 ±157.25 µg/m?) > (Summer; 283.57 ±93.18 µg/m?) > (Monsoon; 33.20 ±16.32 µg/m?) and PM2.5 – (Winter; 126.39±37.77 µg/m³) > (Summer; 75.92±12.28 µg/m³). Source apportionment model (PMF) have been applied and identified five major sources contributing the pollution; steel production and industry (68%), vehicular and re-suspended road dust (10.1%), heavy oil combustion (10.1%), tire wear and brake wear/abrasion (8%) and crustal/Earth crust (3.7%). Industrial activities have been identified as major contributing factor for air quality degradation in the region.
Practical implications
Chemical characterization of aerosols and identification of possible sources will be helpful in abatement of pollution and framing mitigating strategies. It will also help in standardization of global climate model.
Originality/value
The findings provide valuable results to be considered for controlling air pollution in the region.
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A.A. Shaltout, M.A. Qabazard, M. Al Khawari, R. Bushnaq, N.A. Abdella, R. Abdul Salam and H. Mughal
Presents the results of a medical audit of the records of 199children diagnosed as diabetic and admitted to Al‐Amiri Hospital,Kuwait. Uses the measurement of glycosylated…
Abstract
Presents the results of a medical audit of the records of 199 children diagnosed as diabetic and admitted to Al‐Amiri Hospital, Kuwait. Uses the measurement of glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1) to indicate the levels of control achieved. Finds that the degree of glycaemic control compares favourably with studies done in other hospitals, but unfavourably with specialized diabetic clinics. Proposes that glycaemic control could be improved by provision of the services of specialized support staff such as dietitian, educator, psychologist and health visitor.
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M.H. Saffaripour and M.A. Mehrabian
The purpose of this paper is to predict the global solar radiation intensity in areas where meteorological stations do not exist and information on solar radiation cannot be…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to predict the global solar radiation intensity in areas where meteorological stations do not exist and information on solar radiation cannot be obtained experimentally.
Design/methodology/approach
The approach to achieve the objective of the paper is developing multiple regression relations between the global solar radiation intensity (the dependent variable) and geographical, geometrical, astronomical and meteorological parameters (the independent variables). The independent variables used for this purpose were selected based on their ease of measurability outside the meteorological station and without expensive equipment. The number of independent variables is arbitrarily chosen and directly affects the accuracy of predictions.
Findings
Linear regression relations using one, two, three, four, five, six, and seven independent variables were developed to predict the global solar radiation intensity on horizontal surfaces. An advanced computer program based on least square analysis was used to obtain the regression coefficients. The relations having the highest correlation coefficients were selected. The study shows even when only one independent variable (declination angle) is used, the one variable regression relation predicts the global solar radiation with an accuracy that is satisfactory in most engineering applications.
Originality/value
The diversity of regression relations introduced in this paper gives the engineer such a broad freedom of choice, that knowing only an astronomical parameter of the site makes him capable of estimating the global solar radiation intensity within acceptable margins. The predicted values of global solar radiation intensity by this approach can be used for the design and performance estimation in solar applications. The statistical model developed in this research was validated when compared with the measured data in Yazd airport. The measured data used to analyze the model equations were collected in a 13‐year period. No investigation of this type exists having such degree of accuracy in geographical, geometrical, astronomical and meteorological parameters in Iran.
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Kindergarten children are more susceptible to diseases as they are still in the process of acquiring immunity. The purpose of this study was to assess kindergarten teachers’ and…
Abstract
Purpose
Kindergarten children are more susceptible to diseases as they are still in the process of acquiring immunity. The purpose of this study was to assess kindergarten teachers’ and parents' perception of the prevalence of health problems among children in Kuwait and the role of health education in promotion of healthy habits.
Design/methodology/approach
The methodological aim of this study was to assess the factors that affected kindergarten children's health as children suffered from health problems that affected their quality of life. Therefore, a questionnaire was administered to evaluate kindergarten teachers’ and parents' perception of the main factors that caused increased health problems among children at higher rates than before. A total of 164 teachers and parents were recruited for this study and the questionnaire was completed.
Findings
The results indicated that kindergarten children suffered from different health problems that affected their quality of life. Lack of health knowledge and education in the society was one of the main reasons for the prevalence of these health problems among young children in Kuwait. The findings offered insight about the importance of health education and promotion in prevention of diseases.
Originality/value
This study offers insights into how to increase health knowledge and education in the Kuwaiti community to prevent and decrease health problems that affect children's health.
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The purpose of this paper is to draw a map of the general features of epistemological and critical concerns in contemporary Islamic philosophy. This study will not be confined to…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to draw a map of the general features of epistemological and critical concerns in contemporary Islamic philosophy. This study will not be confined to the domain of academic philosophy or to those who are professionals in the field of philosophy.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper adopted the critical rational approach in dealing with contemporary Islamic philosophy in the Arab world. The scope will include scholars from different fields of epistemology who tried to present a “vision” of the attitude that should be adopted in facing the challenges of the age and the problems of the nation on the epistemological level or the political, economic and social levels.
Findings
There is a need for a philosophy of action and progress rather than a philosophy that is based on abstract ideas and theories and of words/rhetoric. The ethics required to accomplish this ought to identify the attributes of the citizen who can reach self-actualization through legitimate means based on a progress agenda with theoretical and philosophical foundations.
Research limitations/implications
Because a critical rational approach can be dealt with from different perspectives, this paper will adopt the classification of the principal intellectual trends: the reformist, secular and liberal.
Practical implications
This paper covers a long time span to determine whether the philosophical projects have been effective.
Originality/value
This paper, which criticizes the philosophic projects that are theoretically unsound and that do not address real social problems (like poverty), argues the need for a philosophy of progress and action. This will lead to devising an agenda that addresses the challenges the society is facing and to finding alternative and creative solutions resulting in development.
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This paper aims to gain insights about information management practices in public health-care organizations in Kuwait and offer recommendations to improve these practices.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to gain insights about information management practices in public health-care organizations in Kuwait and offer recommendations to improve these practices.
Design/methodology/approach
This study involves secondary analysis of quantitative and qualitative accreditation-related data pertaining to the compliance with the Information Management standard at seven public tertiary health-care facilities over two accreditation cycles.
Findings
Overall, organizations improved their compliance with the Information Management standard. However, issues exist with effectively and efficiently transmitting data, aggregating clinical and administrative data and using the information for both strategic planning and quality improvement initiatives.
Research limitations/implications
The analysed data set does not provide information about the improvements done between the accreditation cycles. Caution should be applied before assuming generalizability of the results, considering the context and social constructs around the health-care system is essential.
Practical implications
Compliance with predetermined criteria through accreditation can improve information management practices. Without proper management of information at health-care facilities, achieving safe and effective patient care is futile. The role of health information technology (IT) should not be sidelined; robust health IT solutions can help support good information management practices thereby improving care quality and aiding health-care reform.
Originality/value
Concerning information management, health-care organizations providing focused services have clear advantages over organizations providing general care services. Considering the type of care organization (general vs specialized) can provide insights into how information management practices can affect the operations of the organization.
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The object of the present work is to study the kinetics of removal of Pb++ on zinc rods in the presence and absence of three surface active substances (SAS) at different…
Abstract
Purpose
The object of the present work is to study the kinetics of removal of Pb++ on zinc rods in the presence and absence of three surface active substances (SAS) at different concentrations of SAS and different temperatures.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper uses a range of recently published (1973‐2003) works, which aim to provide practical and theoretical information about lead, which is a very toxic metal.
Findings
Lead tends to accumulate a sediment, from which it can be released by various processes of remobilization and in many cases it enters the food chain and is concentrated in fish and other edible organisms. The reaction can be considered as taking place via six steps.
Research limitations/implications
The work is a list of recent papers which have been published in different European journals and magazines.
Practical implications
The determination of change of Pb++ concentrations was carried out using a Perkin‐Elmer atomic absorption Spectrophotometer.
Originality/value
The rate of PbII/Zn cementation reaction in the presence of surfactants as non‐ionic (Triton‐X‐100), anionic (SDS) and cationic (CTAB) decreased compared with the blank solution (lead nitrate solution). The order of decreasing rate was as follows: Triton‐X‐100 > CTAB > SDS. The rate of cementation was increased by temperature and the value of ΔE* ranged between 27 and 33 kJmol−1, which indicated that the reaction is a diffusion‐controlled process. The presence of two different SAS in the solution is more effective than the presence of one only.
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Mohamed Fawzi Afifi, Asad Mohsin and Mustafa Farouk
The study investigates perceptions and debate that are linked to the relationship between religion, alcohol, tourism and hospitality within the context of an Islamic tourist…
Abstract
Purpose
The study investigates perceptions and debate that are linked to the relationship between religion, alcohol, tourism and hospitality within the context of an Islamic tourist destination. An analytical approach involving a review of literature, assessment of conservationists’ attitude representing Islam and Christianity, and current trends using a student sample to determine intentions is used. The study findings suggest that alcohol and religiosity are not compatible, use, abuse and dependency are more common among non-believers than believers. A tense dispute continues in the Arab World around alcohol. The study contributes to the literature by highlighting economics, social practice, theoretical and managerial implications related to alcohol service in Egypt and suggests a way forward for global Muslim staff working in the hospitality, tourism, and travel industries.
Design/methodology/approach
The study uses an analytical approach involving a review of literature, assessment of conservationists’ attitude representing Islam and Christianity and current trends using a student sample to determine intentions.
Findings
The study findings suggest that alcohol and religiosity are not compatible, use, abuse and dependency are more common among non-believers than believers. A tense dispute continues in the Arab World around alcohol.
Research limitations/Implications
The study is assessing the relationship between religion, alcohol, hospitality and tourism within the context of Egypt, advances knowledge about halal tourism and hospitality by explicitly linking religious obligations and the implication on tourism. The findings should be used with caution considering the subjectivity of responses and the size of the sample.
Practical implications
The service/hospitality industry managers could be Muslims or non-Muslims representing major airlines, hotels and restaurants where alcohol is served by Muslim employees. These managers should consider avoiding the sale or serving of alcohol completely, and if not, they must not force their workers to serve alcohol if they chose not to.
Social implications
Faith-based (e.g. Muslims, Seventh Day Adventists and Mormons), ideological or ethically driven alternative services should be created for the staff concerned with alcohol service/consumption. Employment is to be provided to adherents of these faiths or ideologies as an alternative resort.
Abdul Majeed Alhashem, Habib Alquraini and Rafiqul I. Chowdhury
To measure the quality of health care services patient satisfaction is used as one of the most important indicators. The study aims to identify factors affecting patient's…
Abstract
Purpose
To measure the quality of health care services patient satisfaction is used as one of the most important indicators. The study aims to identify factors affecting patient's satisfaction at primary health care clinics.
Design/methodology/approach
The data was collected during January 2007 and May 2007 through a randomly‐distributed questionnaire. The questionnaires were distributed in primary healthcare clinics that represent all heath care regions in Kuwait. A total of 426 completed questionnaires, out of 500, were returned resulting in a response rate of 85.2 percent.
Findings
The majority (87 percent) of the patients responded that the time for communication between physician and patient was not enough. Seventy‐nine‐percent of the surveyed patients said they would go to the emergency room of the hospital in future if needed instead of going to the primary care clinic. Regarding the quality of the communication relationship between physician and patients most of the patients responded negatively. Exploratory factor analysis identified six factors and reliability of overall scale was found to be 0.61.
Research limitations/implications
One limitation to this study was the exclusion of the private sector.
Originality/value
The authors hope that this study identifies areas of dissatisfaction that can be quickly remedied and ensures enhancement in the areas of satisfaction with ongoing attention and emphasis.
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Mohamed L. Shaltout and Hesham A. Hegazi
In this work, the design problem of hydrodynamic plain journal bearings is formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem to improve bearing performance under different…
Abstract
Purpose
In this work, the design problem of hydrodynamic plain journal bearings is formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem to improve bearing performance under different operating conditions.
Design/methodology/approach
The problem is solved using a hybrid approach combining genetic algorithm and sequential quadratic programming. The selected state variables are oil leakage flow rate, power loss and minimum oil film thickness. The selected design variables are the radial clearance, length-to-diameter ratio, oil viscosity, oil supply pressure and oil supply groove angular position. A validated empirical model is adopted to provide relatively accurate estimation of the bearing state variables with reduced computations. Pareto optimal solution sets are obtained for different operating conditions, and secondary selection criteria are proposed to choose a final optimum design.
Findings
The adopted hybrid optimization approach is a random search algorithm that generates a different solution set for each run, thus a different bearing design. For a number of runs, it is found that the key design variables that significantly affect the optimum state variables are the bearing radial clearance, oil viscosity and oil supply pressure. Additionally, oil viscosity is found to represent the significant factor that distinguishes the optimum designs obtained using the implemented secondary selection criteria. Finally, the results of the proposed optimum design framework at different operating conditions are presented and compared.
Originality/value
The proposed multi-objective formulation of the bearing design problem can provide engineers with a systematic approach and an important degree of flexibility to choose the optimum design that best fits the application requirements.