Abstract
Purpose
This study/paper aims to the authors applied low “Si” ions dose over cp-Ti-2, and the potent dose level was optimized for adequate corrosion resistance and effective proliferation of stem cells.
Design/methodology/approach
The cp-Ti surface was modified by silicon (Si) ions beam at 0.5 MeV in a Pelletron accelerator. Three different ion doses were applied to the polished samples, and the surface was characterized by XRD and AFM analysis.
Findings
At moderate “Si” ion dose (6.54 × 1012 ions-cm−2), the potential shifted to a noble value. The small “icorr” (1.22 µA.cm−2) and relatively large charge transfer resistance (43.548 kΩ-cm2) in the ringer‘s lactate solution was confirmed through Potentiodynamic polarization and impedance spectroscopy analysis. Compared to cp-Ti and other doses, this dose level also provided the effective proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells.
Originality/value
The dosage levels used were different to previous work and provided the effective proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells.
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Yasin Mahmood, Abdul Rashid and Muhammad Faisal Rizwan
This study aims to examine how corporate financial flexibility, financial sector development and the regulatory environment influence corporate investment decisions in an emerging…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine how corporate financial flexibility, financial sector development and the regulatory environment influence corporate investment decisions in an emerging economy after controlling for several macroeconomic factors.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors estimated random-effects models to empirically examine the impacts of corporate financial flexibility, banking sector development, equity market development, regulatory quality and corruption on corporate investment decisions. The empirical analysis is based on an unbalanced annual panel data set of a sample of 198 non-financial firms listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange for the period 1992–2018.
Findings
The results show that financially flexible firms tend to invest more. The increased banking sector development, stock market development and better regulatory quality play a pivotal role for enabling firms to increase their investment ability. However, the results reveal that corruption acts as a barrier and reduces corporate investments during the examined period. The results suggest that unused borrowing capacity is a good source of financial flexibility. These results strongly support the pecking order theory, which explains why firms incline toward internal sources for financing their investments and why they prefer debt to equity when go for external financing.
Practical implications
The empirical findings of the study enable corporate managers to make better financing and investment decisions by understanding the significance of the attainment and maintenance of the corporate financial flexibility to enhance firm value. Furthermore, the findings enable corporate managers to examine and understand the role of banking sector development (BSD), equity market development (EMD), regulatory quality and the role of corruption in affecting corporate firms' investment ability, allowing them to make appropriate investment decisions, especially from an emerging economy perspective. The findings also help investors in making appropriate investment decisions while they are purchasing financial assets. Finally, the findings of the study have some implications for regulators as well. Specifically, the findings suggest that the authorities should implement economic and financial policies favoring banking sector as well as equity market development to enhance corporate investment.
Originality/value
The study significantly adds to the literature by examining the impact of financial flexibility, financial sector development and regulatory environment on corporate investment decisions. According to the authors' knowledge, the empirical evidence examining the impact of all of these factors on corporate investment is very scarce. Therefore, this study is an effort to fill the gap left in the literature.
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Stefania Boglietti, Martina Carra, Massimiliano Sotgiu, Benedetto Barabino, Michela Bonera and Giulio Maternini
Nowadays, the increase in the capacity of batteries has laid the foundations for a broader diffusion of electric mobility. However, electric mobility is causing a growing…
Abstract
Nowadays, the increase in the capacity of batteries has laid the foundations for a broader diffusion of electric mobility. However, electric mobility is causing a growing electricity demand as well as the need to increase the diffusion of suitable charging stations. Within these last challenges, drawing on the recent literature, this chapter provides a critical and wide-ranging review of papers dealing with the formulation of the problem of the localisation of electric vehicle (EV) charging points. This problem is approached considering the electric charging infrastructure technologies, localisation criteria and related methodologies. This review shows how the ‘electric mobility revolution’ applies the technological innovations provided by the energy supply systems, and the location of these systems within the urban contexts. Since the technological innovations have different options, achieving an international standard of charging systems is still far away. Moreover, as there are several criteria, parameters and methodologies, and some analytical approaches for the localisation of electric vehicle charging points, the formulation of the ‘localisation’ problem should require the application of multi-criteria analysis to be addressed. Finally, the results show that there is no consensus on technologies, criteria, and methodologies to be adopted. Therefore, this wide-ranging analysis of the literature would be useful to support possible benchmarking and systematisation accordingly.
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Soroosh Shojaee, Mohammad Vahabi, Saeed Dinarvand, Amirhossein Hamedi, Arash Mirabdolah Lavasani and Zahra Moinfar
This paper aims to study numerically the non-Newtonian solution of carboxymethyl cellulose in water along with copper oxide nanoparticles, which flow turbulently through twisted…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to study numerically the non-Newtonian solution of carboxymethyl cellulose in water along with copper oxide nanoparticles, which flow turbulently through twisted smooth and finned tubes.
Design/methodology/approach
The twisted-tape inserts of rectangular and triangular sections are investigated under constant wall heat flux and the nanoparticle concentration varies between 0% and 1.5%. Computational fluid dynamics simulation is first validated by experimental information from two test cases, showing that the numerical results are in good agreement with previous studies. Here, the impact of nanoparticle concentration, tube twist and fins shape on the heat transfer and pressure loss of the system is measured. It is accomplished using longitudinal rectangular and triangular fins in a wide range of prominent parameters.
Findings
The results show that first, both the Nusselt number and friction factor increase with the rise in the concentration of nanoparticles and twist of the tube. Second, the trend is repeated by adding fins, but it is more intense in the triangular cases. The tube twist increases the Nusselt number up to 9%, 20% and 46% corresponding to smooth tube, rectangular and triangular fins, respectively. The most twisted tube with triangular fins and the highest value of concentration acquires the largest performance evaluation criterion at 1.3, 30% more efficient than the plain tube with 0% nanoparticle concentration.
Originality/value
This study explores an innovative approach to enhancing heat transfer in a non-Newtonian nanofluid flowing through an oval tube. The use of twisted-tape inserts with rectangular and triangular sections in this specific configuration represents a novel method to improve fluid flow characteristics and heat transfer efficiency. This study stands out for its originality in combining non-Newtonian fluid dynamics, nanofluid properties and geometric considerations to optimize heat transfer performance. The results of this work can be dramatically considered in advanced heat exchange applications.
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Sagarika Rout and Gyan Ranjan Biswal
Notable energy losses and voltage deviation issues in low-voltage radial distribution systems are a major concern for power planners and utility companies because of the…
Abstract
Purpose
Notable energy losses and voltage deviation issues in low-voltage radial distribution systems are a major concern for power planners and utility companies because of the integration of electric vehicles (EVs). Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs) are the key components in the network where the EVs are equipped to energize their battery. The purpose of this paper is coordinating the EVCS and distributed generation (DG) so as to place them optimally using swarm-based elephant herding optimization techniques by considering energy losses, voltage sensitivity and branch current as key indices. The placement and sizing of the EVCS and DG were found in steps.
Design/methodology/approach
The IEEE 33-bus test feeder and 52-bus Indian practical radial networks were used as the test system for the network characteristic analysis. To enhance the system performance, the radial network is divided into zones for the placement of charging stations and dispersed generation units. Balanced coordination is discussed with three defined situations for the EVCS and DG.
Findings
The proposed analysis shows that DG collaboration with EVCS with suitable size and location in the network improves the performance in terms of stability and losses.
Research limitations/implications
Stability and loss indices are handled with equal weight factor to find the best solution.
Social implications
The proposed method is coordinating EVCS and DG in the existing system; the EV integration in the low-voltage side can be incorporated suitably. So, it has societal impact.
Originality/value
In this study, the proposed method shows improved results in terms EVCS and DG integration in the system with minimum losses and voltage sensitivity. The results have been compared with another population-based particle swarm optimization method (PSO). There is an improvement of 18% in terms of total power losses and 9% better result in minimum node voltage as compared to the PSO technique. Also, there is an enhancement of 33% in the defined voltage stability index which shows the proficiency of the proposed analysis.
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Anna Karhu, Elina Pelto and Lauri-Matti Palmunen
Retailing has developed from independent merchants to multinational giants operating through global value chains, which has profoundly shaped consumption patterns in Western…
Abstract
Retailing has developed from independent merchants to multinational giants operating through global value chains, which has profoundly shaped consumption patterns in Western economies. This constant development currently consists of three global-scale change trajectories – climate change, online consumption, and technological development – that affect the retail industry. Based on this, this chapter concentrates on connecting the development paths of consumption and retailing and identifies various factors that affect the future of international retailing. The authors analyze the changes in institutional logics of international retailing by mapping the past, present, and future of the retail industry and consumption using content analysis of secondary data. The authors pay special attention to the effect of the current Covid-19 crisis on the future development of the retail industry. In the findings of this chapter, the authors recognize institutional logics changes in organizing the position of retailing as a connector of customers and producers, and the authors suggest blockchain to be an emerging new institutional order.
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Muhammad Ijaz Khan, Muhammad Riaz, Khaled Abd El-Aziz, M. Sana Ullah Sahar, Mumtaz Ahmed Qaisrani and Hafiz Tauqeer Ali
The study highlights our findings, including the confirmation of phase stability through XRD analysis, the characterization of optical properties revealing high absorption and…
Abstract
Purpose
The study highlights our findings, including the confirmation of phase stability through XRD analysis, the characterization of optical properties revealing high absorption and conductivity and the analysis of mechanical stability through elastic constants. Additionally, we present detailed results on the band gap, EELS analysis and the suitability of SrZrO3 perovskite oxides for next-generation optoelectronic devices.
Design/methodology/approach
Cubic SrZrO3 perovskite oxides were designed within the framework of density functional theory (DFT) via the CASTEP code under varying stress conditions (0–100 GPa), aiming to explore the key properties for diverse applications. The phase stability was confirmed by XRD analysis. From 0 to 40 GPa, there is an increase in the band gap from 3.330 to 3.615 eV, while it narrows from 3.493 to 3.155 eV beyond 60 GPa. The optical characteristics revealed high absorption, superior conductivity and a lower loss function. Significantly, the elastic constants (C11, C12 and C44) satisfy the Born-stability criterion, ensuring the mechanical stability of the compound. Additionally, the Poisson’s ratio, Pugh ratio (B/G), Frantsevich ratio, Cauchy pressure (PC) and anisotropy factor ensured both ductile and anisotropic characteristics. Higher values of Young’s modulus and shear modulus signify a superior ability to withstand longitudinal stresses. In the EELS analysis, distinctive energy-loss peaks resulting from absorption and emission correlated with diverse electronic transitions and energy levels associated with Sr, Zr and O atoms are used to probe the precise exploration of the electronic and optical characteristics of materials with a high degree of accuracy. Based on these findings, the designed SrZrO3 perovskite oxides are particularly suitable for applications in various optoelectronic devices.
Findings
CASTEP codes were utilized to design the cubic SrZrO3 perovskite under varying stress conditions ranging from 0 to 100 GPa. The phase stability was confirmed through XRD analysis. A distinctive trend in the band gap was observed: an increase from 3.330 eV to 3.615 eV as the stress increased from 0 to 40 GPa and a decrease from 3.493 to 3.155 above 60 GPa. A higher absorption and conductivity and a lower loss function were found for the optical properties. The mechanical stability was ensured by elastic constants (C11, C12, and C44) satisfying the Born-stability criteria. Additionally, the Poisson’s ratio, Pugh’s ratio (B/G), Frantsevich ratio, Cauchy pressure (PC) and anisotropy factor were used to verify the ductility and anisotropy of the materials. Higher values of Young’s modulus and shear modulus indicate a superior ability to withstand longitudinal stresses. EELS analysis revealed distinctive energy-loss peaks associated with Sr, Zr and O atoms, enabling precise exploration of the electronic and optical characteristics with a high degree of accuracy. As expected, the designed SrZrO3 perovskite oxides exhibit favorable properties, making them particularly suitable for next-generation optoelectronic devices.
Originality/value
In this study, we utilized DFT within the CASTEP code framework to investigate the properties of cubic SrZrO3 perovskite oxides under varying stress conditions ranging from 0 to 100 GPa. Our research aimed to explore the key properties of SrZrO3 for diverse applications, particularly in optoelectronic devices.
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The agricultural sector is a critical component of global economic development, and its significance has grown significantly in recent years. The risks associated with agriculture…
Abstract
Purpose
The agricultural sector is a critical component of global economic development, and its significance has grown significantly in recent years. The risks associated with agriculture and the behaviors of farmers in handling these risks are becoming increasingly important, given the sector’s increasing dependence worldwide. Various activities related to agriculture are vulnerable to multiple risks, which can have severe consequences for farmers’ livelihoods. The purpose of this systematic review is to present a comprehensive analysis of the sources of risk faced by farmers and their choices in adopting risk management strategies worldwide.
Design/methodology/approach
The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol was utilized to select relevant literature, and a total of 102 studies were analyzed. Through the use of Venn diagrams and graphical methods, the authors provide a transparent overview of the risks faced by farmers and the adoption of risk management strategies in developed and developing countries.
Findings
From the analysis, the authors found that, in terms of risk management strategies, diversification, reserve credit and accumulated assets are frequently used in developing countries, while developed countries tend to rely on future/forward contracts, crop insurance and hedging. Diversification is the most widely used risk management strategy across both developed and developing countries. Our study also highlights the different perceptions of weather-related risks among growers in developed and developing countries.
Practical implications
This systematic review provides valuable insights into the risks associated with agriculture and farmers' strategies in managing these risks, which could inform policy decisions and promote sustainable agricultural practices. For instance, understanding the individualistic nature of farmers' risk perception and the varying risk sources and management strategies depending on the locality and provide assistance to the farmers accordingly.
Originality/value
The paper explains how farmers behave during uncertainty in terms of risk perception and their decision to adopt risk management strategies in developed and developing countries.
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Syed Ahmad Ali, Aida Loussaief and Muhammad Ahmed
Islamic banking industry with all of its exponential growth and global recognition has been under criticism for the past two decades. However, the problem signifies further when…
Abstract
Purpose
Islamic banking industry with all of its exponential growth and global recognition has been under criticism for the past two decades. However, the problem signifies further when such criticism is made from within the organization and is well supported by outside (the customers). The purpose of this study is to provide a coherent exploration to investigate the factors that polarize its employees and customers across many parts of the world.
Design/methodology/approach
To investigate the phenomenon, a total of 30 responses were taken through interviews 15 each from customers and employees. Afterwards, the data was analysed and summarized into two categories. In doing so, the top five Malaysia’s Islamic banks were shortlisted to collect data from employees and customers.
Findings
A detailed thematic analysis resulted in six themes (Contradiction between theory and practice, Islamic banking knowledge and awareness, inadequate Shariah training, employees’ background, Shariah compliance, Islamic banking benefits) for employees and five (Islamic banking benefits, applying Shariah in Islamic banking, knowledge of Islamic banking, Islamic banking promotion, Islamic banking employees’ behaviour) for customers, respectively.
Research limitations/implications
The results have stronger implications for both practice and theory as organizations can assess stakeholders and their perceptions about Islamic banking. Another implication is the comparative examination of employees and customers which can potentially affect decision and policy making in Islamic banks. Islamic banks can also address employment-related issues related to employees’ behaviour vis-à-vis marketing-related problems faced by its customers that will ultimately improve its global market share and strategic positioning.
Originality/value
The study is based on the importance of Islamic banking in Malaysia and explores the factors that potentially create a positive or negative insight into Islamic banking – both in employees and customers.