Milad Kheiry and Farhoud Kalateh
Computing seepage discharge in earth dams involves inherent complexities and challenges that require the use of probabilistic algorithms to accurately capture their uncertain…
Abstract
Purpose
Computing seepage discharge in earth dams involves inherent complexities and challenges that require the use of probabilistic algorithms to accurately capture their uncertain characteristics and identify optimal solutions. This study aims to investigate the impact of uncertainty in seepage flow estimation using a novel hybrid approach, combining the analysis of Laplacian equations with the probabilistic finite element method (PFEM) and a metaheuristic algorithm.
Design/methodology/approach
To achieve this purpose, a finite element-based FORTRAN program was developed to model the problem using the Galerkin finite element method, which was validated using laboratory findings. Subsequently, Monte Carlo loops were incorporated into each model, consisting of 2000 iterations and the probability distribution function and cumulative distribution function were computed for each sub-model. A total of 138 earth dams were analysed to investigate the influence of different characteristics on seepage, including variations in dam geometry, soil permeability and water levels (both downstream and upstream). Effective seepage flow (ESF), was introduced in both deterministic and probabilistic models.
Findings
The findings indicated that the downstream slope has a more significant impact on ESF than the upstream slope, with a difference of 1.29%. Additionally, the ratio of dam height to bottom width (H/B) directly affects the ESF, resulting in a 20% increase in ESF for every 16% increase in H/B.
Originality/value
This study introduces a novel hybrid approach for estimating seepage flow in earth dams by integrating the Unlike traditional deterministic models, which often overlook the inherent .PFEM with a metaheuristic algorithman advanced uncertainties in seepage characteristics, this research effectively captures these uncertainties throughprobabilistic framework.
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Eva M. García-Granero, Laura Piedra-Muñoz, Emilio Galdeano-Gómez and Yolanda Sorroche-del-Rey
This study aims to propose a comprehensive framework for assessing circular economy (CE) performance in the agri-food sector. It identifies those indicators that should be used to…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to propose a comprehensive framework for assessing circular economy (CE) performance in the agri-food sector. It identifies those indicators that should be used to measure circularity regarding CE strategies, applies them at a microeconomic level and examines the impact of key business determinants (financial, internalization, knowledge, awareness and digitalization).
Design/methodology/approach
A literature review was conducted with a focus on CE strategies and related indicators. The framework obtained is applied on a Spanish agri-food sector survey to provide an empirical CE analysis at firm level. A partial least squares based-structural equation modelling method is applied.
Findings
The research suggests a set of circularity indicators to assess CE strategies at micro level. The findings reveal the heterogeneity of CE sub-indicators related to narrowing, slowing, closing and regenerating strategies. It also highlights the strong effects that the drivers tested have on CE, especially awareness and knowledge.
Practical implications
This study provides a framework that can guide public policies and business decisions in sectors with significant environmental impacts. It provides a conceptual framework that explains which CE indicators should be considered by governments and regulators when developing policies that seek to promote circular strategies.
Social implications
In the case of companies, the results show that acquiring more environmental awareness and knowledge is essential for promoting more sustainable work habits that enhance CE.
Originality/value
The paper offers a novel contribution to the CE literature by introducing a multidimensional indicator framework comprehensively applied to the agri-food sector, integrating miscellaneous pillars of circular strategies and business determinants.
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Jorge Cruz-Cárdenas, Carlos Ramos-Galarza, Mónica Giménez-Baldazo and Andrés Palacio-Fierro
This study undertook a systematic literature review of consumers’ information and knowledge sharing (I&KS) in digital scenarios, as it is an expanding thematic area that differs…
Abstract
Purpose
This study undertook a systematic literature review of consumers’ information and knowledge sharing (I&KS) in digital scenarios, as it is an expanding thematic area that differs from other consumer behavior and has been underexplored.
Design/methodology/approach
Following the PRISMA philosophy, we identified I&KS-related studies in the Scopus database based on a search term chain determined through an exploratory study. Additional inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and studies were manually filtered. An input–process–output type model was used to manually review and systematize the literature. Then, a second content analysis was conducted using artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
Findings
Based on 51 relevant articles, this study characterized the I&KS research field as multidisciplinary through quantitative methods. Based on an input–process–output consumer behavior model and content analysis, this study systematized existing knowledge and revealed that most knowledge encompassed the influence of personal and psychological consumer characteristics. Additionally, based on AI tools applied to the full texts of the relevant articles, five thematic clusters emerged, largely coinciding with the input–process–output model used. Finally, future research avenues and recommendations for business and organizational practices were identified.
Originality/value
This study fills the gap in consumer studies by systematically reviewing I&KS, a developing field, as no prior research has addressed this topic systematically.
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Asif M. Huq and Mahsa Mohammadrezaei
The purpose of the review is to synthesize the research on materiality measures of sustainability reporting and highlight how preparers, users, auditors, regulators and other…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of the review is to synthesize the research on materiality measures of sustainability reporting and highlight how preparers, users, auditors, regulators and other stakeholders assess or determine the materiality in sustainability reporting. The review further summarizes the findings on consequences and determinants of material disclosures in sustainability reporting. Several directions for future research are also discussed.
Design/methodology/approach
This study provides a systematic review of materiality measures developed in the context of sustainability reporting. This synthesis of the literature summarizes the existing methodologies of measuring materiality. It also evaluates the strength and limitations of existing methods and approaches of measuring materiality in sustainability disclosures.
Findings
We find that the ex post materiality measures are simplistic and unidirectional in nature and ex ante materiality measures lack external validity and are generally narrow in focus – for example, focused on single firms or industries. Another major limitation in the current literature is the absence of robust empirical investigation of double materiality in sustainability reporting and a vast majority of the measures are developed without stakeholder engagement. Lastly, we document that the findings on determinants of material disclosure are fragmented and inconclusive and that the literature on consequences of material disclosure is rather un-explored.
Originality/value
The study explains the connections and differences between the various materiality measures. We document that materiality is measured in two distinct ways, ex ante and ex post and often times without stakeholder engagement. Moreover, given that a vast majority of the measures rely on manual content analysis, we find that they suffer from reproducibility and scalability.
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Patrik Ström and Brita Hermelin
The circular economy (CE) has been endorsed as representing a model that is able to achieve environmental protection through decreased use of raw materials, together with changing…
Abstract
Purpose
The circular economy (CE) has been endorsed as representing a model that is able to achieve environmental protection through decreased use of raw materials, together with changing economic values and social inclusion thanks to its demand for a wide variety of skill profiles. This has motivated many policy initiatives to support the implementation of the CE. The purpose of this study is to follow such policy initiatives in three geographically anchored industry-specific networks.
Design/methodology/approach
The study contributes to the research debate on the CE through a spatial approach with a focus on how the implementation of the CE is conditioned by spatial and regional contexts. The authors investigate three different networks in Sweden for CE with different locations and industrial profiles.
Findings
The findings reveal the difficulty that exist in relation to the implementation of the CE. The network and support functions in combination with private industry are vital. The risk of sustaining an uneven regional economic development is evident.
Originality/value
Although research on the development of the CE has proliferated, geographical approaches to this development are comparably rare to date. The authors seek to contextualise the strategy development and policy implementation of a CE policy.
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Andrew Ebekozien, Clinton Aigbavboa, Mohamed Ahmed Hafez Ahmed, Mohamad Shaharudin Samsurijan, John Ogbeleakhu Aliu, Matthew Ikuabe and Angeline Ngozika Chibuike Nwaole
Studies have shown that research is a global innovation’s “engine room.” Therefore, young adult-built environment researchers (YABER), especially in developing countries, need…
Abstract
Purpose
Studies have shown that research is a global innovation’s “engine room.” Therefore, young adult-built environment researchers (YABER), especially in developing countries, need research upskilling and reskilling training for better-integrated outcomes. Evidence shows that research training can improve YABER competencies and proficiencies. In Nigeria, YABER may have had some challenges in training needs. There is a lack of extant literature about the issues facing Nigeria’s YABER upskilling and reskilling training needs. Thus, this study investigated the perceived problems facing YABER and proffered measures to improve their training needs in Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
The researchers used participants from Edo State, Abuja and Lagos State, Nigeria. This study adopted a qualitative research approach. The researchers accomplished saturation after 40 virtual interviews and adopted a thematic analysis for the primary data.
Findings
The research shows that the built environment research refines current and creates new knowledge. The built environment researchers (trainers and trainees) need training but face challenges. Findings clustered measures to improve quality research publications in the built environment through YABER training into government/regulatory agencies-related, higher education institutions-related and researcher-related measures.
Originality/value
The developed framework and thematic network analysis could be used to stimulate YABER training needs and, by extension, stir Nigeria’s higher education institutions regulatory agencies to upgrade requirements for academic staffers, especially published articles, to be compulsorily Scopus/Web of Sciences indexed for promotion exercise. This is the global best practice, and Nigerian scholars cannot be in isolation. It will form part of this study’s implication and revitalise UNSDG 4.
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Rodney Graeme Duffett and Jaydi Rejuan Charles
The substantial expansion of technology and the efficacy of digital platforms in reaching young audiences have led to enhanced targeting and customization of promotional…
Abstract
Purpose
The substantial expansion of technology and the efficacy of digital platforms in reaching young audiences have led to enhanced targeting and customization of promotional communications. Notwithstanding the expansion and efficacy of contemporary advertising platforms, scholarly attention has not kept pace with this domain of inquiry. This study aims to assess the antecedents of Google Shopping Ads (GSA) on intention to purchase behavior among the Generation Y and Z cohorts.
Design/methodology/approach
The current study used a quantitative approach and snowball sampling technique to gather primary data via a questionnaire and Google Forms, which resulted in the collection of 5,808 questionnaires among the cohort members. A principal component analysis and multigroup confirmatory multigroup structural equation modeling (between Generation Y and Z) were used to assess the research data and model.
Findings
The results show positive trust and perceived value associations with intention to purchase, particularly among Generation Y and Z consumers. The findings also show negative irritation, product risk and time risk associations with intention to purchase, especially among the Generation Y cohort, which indicates that young consumers generally do not observe perceived risk due to the usage of GSA.
Originality/value
GSA will continue to grow and become an increasingly important integrated marketing communications tool as the digital landscape develops. It can be concluded that young consumers show a high degree of perceived value and low levels of perceived risk due to the use of GSA. This study, therefore, promotes improved understanding among academics, marketers and businesses of search engine advertising among young cohorts of consumers (Generation Y and Z) in a developing country context.
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Nessrin Shaya, Rawan AbuKhait, Rehaf Madani and Vian Ahmed
The theoretical landscape surrounding the contribution of digital transformation to sustainability in higher education institutions is lacking in literature. Blended learning has…
Abstract
Purpose
The theoretical landscape surrounding the contribution of digital transformation to sustainability in higher education institutions is lacking in literature. Blended learning has gained popularity and poises for further growth as a sustainable and inclusive mode of learning that will shape the future of education. This study aims to investigate the organizational critical success factors that ensure high-quality blended learning opportunities.
Design/methodology/approach
Data was collected through an online student survey and semistructured interviews with academic leaders and faculty members.
Findings
Exploratory factor analysis and multiple linear regression revealed five main contributing factors to a successful overall hybrid experience, namely, faculty support, cognitive flexibility, learner self-actualization, student engagement and sense of belonging. In the results, students were satisfied with their gained skills, knowledge and engagement, and have succeeded in developing cognitive flexibility, self-actualization and sense of belonging. Faculty support was the strongest determinant. The presence of certain organizational dynamics, comprising management support of those with sustainability mindset, effective communication, blended leadership qualities and adequate faculty personality traits, presents as a major predictor to quality learning opportunities.
Originality/value
The theoretical landscape surrounding the contribution of digital transformation to sustainability in higher education institutions is lacking in literature, which emphasizes the novel aspects of this study. In particular, it contributes by determining the overall level of research on the subject, theoretical stances in this area and potential avenues for further investigation.
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Muhammad Asif Zaheer, Tanveer Muhammad Anwar, Mohamed Albeshr, Maryam Manzoor and Zoia Khan
This paper aims to provide the integrated model with artificial intelligence (AI) awareness for the betterment of the higher education system in crisis i.e. fear of contagious…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to provide the integrated model with artificial intelligence (AI) awareness for the betterment of the higher education system in crisis i.e. fear of contagious viruses (different kinds of flu, monkeypox, chickenpox, COVID-19, etc.) corollaries in developing nations where the quality of education depends on teachers’ commitment, stress and the turnover intention.
Design/methodology/approach
This empirical investigation employs a self-administered survey distributed among the faculty members within higher education institutions (HEIs) of the Punjab province and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Islamabad, Pakistan. The final sample of 622 faculty members was collected through convenience sampling, and structural equation modeling was performed with SmartPLS to assess the proposed model.
Findings
The study reveals that remote work significantly enhances organizational commitment while concurrently lowering the turnover intention. Conversely, perceived work stress negatively impacts organizational commitment but positively influences turnover intention. Organizational commitment partially mediates between perceived work stress and turnover intention but exhibited no mediation between remote work and turnover intention. Notably, fear of contagious viruses and AI awareness positively moderate and amplify both the perceived work stress with turnover intention and remote working with organizational commitment, respectively.
Research limitations/implications
The current study extends the AI-mediated social exchange theory (MET) by observing faculty members of HEIs in the context of remote working, perceived work stress, commitment, turnover intention, fear of contagious viruses and AI awareness. Moreover, the successful application of AI-MET extended the researcher’s understanding of quality education in crisis.
Practical implications
The study offers several contributions including applications of technical skills with AI awareness among faculty members to provide quality education for society’s welfare. Moreover, HEIs should arrange training programs for performance enhancement.
Originality/value
This research provided a quality-based model for HEIs for developing nations to deal with forthcoming calamities of contagious viruses and deliver quality education through remote working during lockdown. Nowadays, off-campus education during calamity situations has been an alternative to on-campus education. Therefore, HEIs must introduce AI awareness to increase the dedication of faculty members toward society’s welfare with the utilization of full effort.
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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.