Amid the pressing global need for sustainable development and environmental protection, exploring effective pathways to foster green innovation has become crucial. This study aims…
Abstract
Purpose
Amid the pressing global need for sustainable development and environmental protection, exploring effective pathways to foster green innovation has become crucial. This study aims to examine the impact of digitalization on green innovation by analyzing its interactions with micro and macro factors.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper adopts a multi-level perspective (MLP) with a multi-agent framework to study how different factors impact green innovation efficiency. This paper uses fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) on 30 Chinese provinces from 2012 to 2021 to identify key conditions and pathways for green innovation efficiency.
Findings
The findings reveal that digitalization alone does not constitute a necessary condition for green innovation. Rather, digitalization needs to be configured with other factors to form dynamic causal paths. In 2012–2016, a single path type (digitalization coupled with regional innovation and marketization) exists. In 2017–2021, two causal path types [digitalization and foreign direct investment (FDI), digitalization and regional innovation] emerge.
Research limitations/implications
The study has three theoretical contributions. First, while previous research studies often focus on single factors, the study examines the complexity of green innovation from a configurational perspective. Using the fsQCA method, this paper explores complex interactions and asymmetric causal relationships among multi-level factors. Second, this paper presents a novel theoretical framework that integrates the MLP framework with the multi-agent framework, facilitating a multi-dimensional analysis of green innovation. This synthesis elucidates the complex network of relationships, interactions and dependencies that propel green innovation. Third, responding to the call in international dynamic QCA research, this paper uses the multi-period QCA method. This allows for a detailed stage-by-stage comparative analysis, elucidating green innovation paths and revealing evolutionary trends of “configurational diversity” and “factor concentration.” This research offers practical insights for policymakers and stakeholders to develop more effective, tailored strategies for promoting green innovation.
Practical implications
Digitalization alone cannot fully drive green innovation; it must be combined with factors such as marketization, regional innovation and FDI. To achieve this, promote market-oriented reforms to enhance market mechanisms and encourage participation in green innovation projects through incentives. Increase investment in regional innovation, establish platforms for resource sharing and technological exchange and support cooperation between local governments and businesses. Additionally, it attracts FDI by creating favorable policies and a conducive business environment. Adapting policies to evolving conditions is crucial. Regularly assess and update policies to ensure their effectiveness and relevance in the face of changing technological and market landscapes. Optimize approval processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles and improve policy implementation efficiency. Regions should also tailor strategies to their specific needs: those with high digitalization but lacking FDI should focus on building a robust research and development (R&D) personnel base, while regions with high FDI but insufficient local talent should attract skilled professionals through talent attraction programs and partnerships with international universities. Continuously adapting strategies ensures that regions can effectively drive sustainable development and green innovation.
Social implications
The research advances the understanding of green innovation by examining multi-level configuration effects, introducing an integrated framework and conducting stage-by-stage comparative analysis. These contributions collectively enhance the theoretical foundation and practical applicability of promoting green innovation in an increasingly digitalized world.
Originality/value
This study offers invaluable theoretical insights and practical pathways for policymakers and decision-makers, providing tailored strategies to promote green innovation. By understanding the complex interactions between digitalization and other factors, decision-makers can better leverage digitalization for sustainable development and environmental protection.
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Jinbei Tian, Mohammed S. Ismail, Derek Ingham, Kevin J. Hughes, Lin Ma and Mohamed Pourkashanian
This paper aims to investigate the impact of three different flow channel cross sections on the performance of the fuel cell.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the impact of three different flow channel cross sections on the performance of the fuel cell.
Design/methodology/approach
A comprehensive three-dimensional polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell model has been developed, and a set of conservation equations has been solved. The flow is assumed to be steady, fully developed, laminar and isothermal. The investigated cross sections are the commonly used square cross section, the increasingly used trapezoidal cross section and a novel hybrid configuration where the cross section is square at the inlet and trapezoidal at the outlet.
Findings
The results show that a slight gain is obtained when using the hybrid configuration and this is because of increased velocity, which improves the supply of the reactant gases to the catalyst layers (CLs) and removes heat and excess water more effectively compared to other configurations. Further, the reduction of the outlet height of the hybrid configuration leads to even better fuel cell performance and this is again because of increased velocity in the flow channel.
Research limitations/implications
The data generated in this study will be highly valuable to engineers interested in studying the effect of fluid cross -sectional shape on fuel cell performance.
Originality/value
This study proposes a novel flow field with a variable cross section. This design can supply a higher amount of reactant gases to the CLs, dissipates heat and remove excess water more effectively.
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Aliaksei Petsiuk, Brandon Bloch, Mitch Debora and Joshua M. Pearce
Presently in multicolor fused filament-based three-dimensional (3-D) printing, significant amounts of waste material are produced through nozzle priming and purging each time a…
Abstract
Purpose
Presently in multicolor fused filament-based three-dimensional (3-D) printing, significant amounts of waste material are produced through nozzle priming and purging each time a change from one color to another occurs. G-code generating slicing software typically changes the material on each layer resulting in wipe towers with greater mass than the target object. The purpose of this study is to provide an alternative fabrication approach based on interlayer tool clustering (ITC) for the first time, which reduces the number of tool changes and is compatible with any commercial 3-D printer without the need for hardware modifications.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors have developed an open-source PrusaSlicer upgrade, compatible with Slic3r-based software, which uses the described algorithm to generate g-code toolpath and print experimental objects. The theoretical time, material and energy savings are calculated and validated to evaluate the proposed fabrication method qualitatively and quantitatively.
Findings
The experimental results show the novel ITC method can significantly increase the efficiency of multimaterial printing, with an average 1.7-fold reduction in material use, and an average 1.4-fold reduction in both time and 3-D printing energy use. In addition, this approach reduces the likelihood of technical failures in the manufacturing of the entire part by reducing the number of tool changes, or material transitions, on average by 2.4 times.
Originality/value
The obtained results support distributed recycling and additive manufacturing, which has both environmental and economic benefits and increasing the number of colors in a 3-D print increases manufacturing savings.
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This study aims to explore the phenomenon of training engagement from the trainers’ perspective. Specifically, two questions guided this inquiry. First, how do trainers define…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the phenomenon of training engagement from the trainers’ perspective. Specifically, two questions guided this inquiry. First, how do trainers define engagement in the training context? and What strategies do trainers use to engage trainees?
Design/methodology/approach
The collective case study approach was adopted for this qualitative study. Seven cases were selected for in-depth analyses. Data were collected through individual, face-to-face interviews and analyzed using the constant comparative analysis method.
Findings
Major findings suggest that engaging training practices take various forms. They include being trainee-centered, maximizing learning through entertaining and interesting instruction, accommodating different learning styles, eliciting trainee participation by creating an encouraging learning environment and connecting with trainees by building rapport early in a training session.
Research limitations/implications
The small sample limits the generalizability of the findings. However, this study expands training literature by focusing on an under-explored research area, the role of engaging trainees in maximizing learning outcomes.
Practical implications
For trainers, this study offered some specific strategies they can use to engage learners in the training context to achieve desired learning outcomes. In addition, the seven cases selected for this study may be used as a benchmark against which both experienced and novice trainers compared their own practices.
Originality/value
This is one of very few qualitative studies with a focus on emotional aspects involved in training. The rich data from this study shed light on areas for future improvement, particularly regarding how to effectively engage trainees to maximize learning outcomes.
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Purpose – This chapter critically reflects on the author’s failed attempt to incorporate visual methods in follow-up research on immigration detention and deportation in Britain…
Abstract
Purpose – This chapter critically reflects on the author’s failed attempt to incorporate visual methods in follow-up research on immigration detention and deportation in Britain. In particular, it considers the uses and limits of participant-generated visuals, and the specific method of photovoice, which were originally conceived as a means to explore themes of home, identity, and belonging in and through practices of detention and release or expulsion.
Methodology/approach – This chapter discusses the visual method of photovoice to consider the uses and limits of participant-generated visuals.
Findings – Drawing on the notion of research “failure,” this chapter highlights the challenges and limitations of photovoice in follow-up research with individuals who were detained and/or deported, pointing to various methodological, logistical, ethical, and political issues pertaining to the method itself and the use of the visual in criminological research.
Originality/value – Criminologists are increasingly considering the visual and the power of photographic images within criminological research, both as objects of study and through the use of visual methodologies. This shift toward the examination, as well as integration, of images raises a number of important methodological, ethical, and political questions worthy of consideration, including instances where visual methods like photovoice are unsuccessful in a research project.
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Purpose – This chapter considers the economic and political relationship between artificial intelligence tools such as facial recognition software and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual…
Abstract
Purpose – This chapter considers the economic and political relationship between artificial intelligence tools such as facial recognition software and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) identity construction and identification. In doing so, the chapter considers the threats and opportunities to diverse LGBTQ identities from algorithmic governance.
Methodology/approach – The author analyzes public discourse on these issues and its relationship to agency for LGBTQ communities. The conceptual approach integrates research into surveillance capitalism and neuroliberalism with “digiqueer” criminology to map the relationship between digital media technologies, institutional legitimacy and negotiations for LGBTQ rights, recognition and resources.
Findings – The discussion shows that the surveillance capitalist principles of blurred consent and redistributed privacy are underpinned by geopolitical and technological forces that have undermined the legitimacy of governments and big tech companies. LGBTQ community resistance to harms perpetrated through digital media platforms is one positive consequence of the ambiguities of surveillance capitalism, but which also reflects the investment required by such communities to secure basic protections that the general population might take for granted.
Originality/value – Research into the relationship between recognition and redistribution through access to rights granted to different social groups on the basis of sexuality, sexual expression and identity is under-interrogated. This chapter responds to that gap with a focus on the role that digital media technologies can play in securing recognition and redistribution of resources for LGBTQ communities, or the significance of their absence and/or diminution in current contexts.
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Amarpreet Singh Gill, Derek Irwin, Pinzhuang Long, Linjing Sun, Dave Towey, Wanling Yu, Yanhui Zhang and Yaxin Zheng
This study aims to examine the effects on student motivation and perception of technological interventions within undergraduate mechanical engineering and product design and…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the effects on student motivation and perception of technological interventions within undergraduate mechanical engineering and product design and manufacture programs at a Sino-foreign international university. The authors use an augmented reality game application within a class on Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) that was developed using the approaches of microlearning and digital game-based learning (DGBL).
Design/methodology/approach
Structured as design-based research, the study reports on developing innovative educational interventions and provides an empirical investigation of their effectiveness. Data were collected using a mixed methods approach, using pre- and post-tests and questionnaires, together with researcher observations and participant interviews.
Findings
Through two rounds of playtests, the game positively affected intrinsic motivation and encouraged higher-order cognitive learning, critical thinking, communication and collaboration. Collaborative learning plays a significant role, DGBL is preferred over traditional methods and microlearning reduces information density and cognitive overload.
Originality/value
The study contributes to our understanding of digital game-based interventions on students’ intrinsic motivation and provides insights into effective ways to design instructional materials in similar teaching and learning settings.
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Purpose – Exploration of the methodological aspects of male sex work is rather limited. Without a strong methodological toolkit to draw from, research in male sex work will not be…
Abstract
Purpose – Exploration of the methodological aspects of male sex work is rather limited. Without a strong methodological toolkit to draw from, research in male sex work will not be able to accurately capture changes in the dynamic sex work environment. Thus, the author provides a comprehensive review of methods in male sex work along with a broad spectrum of methodological insights through which future research can be advanced.
Methodology/approach – Drawing from two studies that the author conducted in the male independent escorting space, this chapter provides a range of methodological insights and offers avenues for future research.
Findings – This chapter reviews the methods used in male sex work research over the years and details the lack of research on methodological inquiry in the field.
Originality/value – With the increasing normalization and dynamism of male sex work, it is necessary for the research to provide methodological guidance for the next wave of studies in the field. The recommendations and research directions proposed herein are hoped to have implications for research in the larger sex work context.
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Daniel A. Collier, David M. Rosch and Derek A. Houston
International student enrollment has experienced dramatic increases on U.S. campuses. Using a national dataset, the study explores and compares international and domestic…
Abstract
International student enrollment has experienced dramatic increases on U.S. campuses. Using a national dataset, the study explores and compares international and domestic students’ incoming and post-training levels of motivation to lead, leadership self- efficacy, and leadership skill using inverse-probability weighting of propensity scores to explore differences between the two samples. Unweighted findings suggest that international and domestic students enter programs similarly across in many ways, and leave the immersion program with similar gains. However, a matched-sample comparison suggests that international students’ growth was statistically different in ethical leadership skills, affective- identity motivation to lead, and leadership self-efficacy. Discussion focuses on the benefits of leadership development to international students why campuses could build partnerships between units that serve international students and leadership educators to facilitate a more inclusive campus.
Isaac Chukwuemezu Okereke, Mohammed S. Ismail, Derek Ingham, Kevin J. Hughes, Lin Ma and Mohamed Pourkashanian
This paper aims to numerically investigate the impact of gas diffusion layer (GDL) anisotropic transport properties on the overall and local performance of polymer electrolyte…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to numerically investigate the impact of gas diffusion layer (GDL) anisotropic transport properties on the overall and local performance of polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs).
Design/methodology/approach
A three-dimensional numerical model of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell with a single straight channel has been developed to investigate the sensitivity of the fuel cell performance to the GDL anisotropic transport properties – gas permeability, diffusivity, thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity. Realistic experimentally estimated GDL transport properties were incorporated into the developed PEFC model, and a parametric study was performed to show the effect of these properties on fuel cell performance and the distribution of the key variables of current density and oxygen concentration within the cathode GDL.
Findings
The results showed that the anisotropy of the GDL must be captured to avoid overestimation/underestimation of the performance of the modelled fuel cell. The results also showed that the fuel cell performance and the distributions of current density and oxygen mass fraction within the cathode GDL are highly sensitive to the through-plane electrical conductivity of the GDL and, to a lesser extent, the through-plane diffusivity, and the thermal conductivity of the GDL. The fuel cell performance is almost insensitive to the gas permeability of the GDL.
Practical implications
This study improves the understanding of the importance of the GDL anisotropy in the modelling of fuel cells and provides useful insights on improving the efficiency of the fuel cells.
Originality/value
Realistic experimentally estimated GDL transport properties have been incorporated into the PEFC model for the first time, allowing for more accurate prediction of the PEFC performance.