R. Otáhal, D. Veselý, J. Násadová, V. Zíma, P. Němec and P. Kalenda
The purpose of this paper is to study properties of intumescent coatings based on a silicone‐epoxy hybrid resin (with an aminosilane as hardener). In the first part of this study…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to study properties of intumescent coatings based on a silicone‐epoxy hybrid resin (with an aminosilane as hardener). In the first part of this study, fire‐resistance behaviour of the intumescent coating based on silicone‐epoxy resin containing intumescent additives is evaluated. The second part assesses the effect of mineral fibres on fire‐resistant properties of intumescent coatings based on the silicone‐epoxy resin.
Design/methodology/approach
Thermal degradation and char formation of coatings were investigated by Thermogravimetric analyses, X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray fluorescence and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The salt spray corrosion test was applied to study the resistance of intumescent coatings. Anticorrosion and fire‐resistant properties after one, three and seven days of exposure were evaluated.
Findings
It was shown that a silicone‐epoxy hybrid resin is suitable for applications in the field of intumescent coatings. Intumescent coatings based on this resin form a thermally stable thin ceramic‐like layer, which improves the thermal insulation properties of the char. Mineral fibres reinforced the char structure and thus improved fire‐resistant properties of intumescent coating before as well as after the salt spray test. Mineral fibres also improved anticorrosion properties.
Research limitations/implications
This paper discusses only the effect of mineral fibres on properties of intumescent coatings.
Originality/value
A silicone‐epoxy hybrid resin has not previously been used in intumescent coatings. This type of intumescent coating can be used as an effective passive fire protection system for steel constructions.
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K. Md Nasir, N.H. Ramli Sulong, M.R. Johan and A.M. Afifi
This study aims to discuss the modification and/or improvement of intumescent coating system by incorporating waterborne resin with an appropriate combination of flame-retardant…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to discuss the modification and/or improvement of intumescent coating system by incorporating waterborne resin with an appropriate combination of flame-retardant additives and four different fillers, namely, TiO2, Al(OH)3, Mg(OH)2 and CaCO3.
Design/methodology/approach
Coating mixtures are characterized using the Bunsen burner, thermogravimetric analysis, limiting oxygen index, scanning electron microscope, static immersion bath, Fourier transform infrared and adhesion tester.
Findings
Results show that the combination of coating with CaCO3 filler significantly improved fire protection performance because of its thick char layer and the equilibrium temperature being 264°C. Char layer showed a uniform dense foam structure on micrograph and this formulation had adhesion strength of 2.13 MPa, which indicates effectiveness of the interface adhesion on substrate. Conversely, the combination of coating with Al(OH)3 exhibited highest oxygen index of 35 per cent, which resulted in excellent flammability resistance.
Research limitations/implications
This paper discusses only the effect of mineral fillers on properties of intumescent coatings.
Practical implications
In the modern design of building infrastructure, fire safety is significant for the protection of human life and assets. The application of intumescent coating in buildings is currently practiced because of its effect on material flammability during a fire.
Originality/value
The analysis method to evaluate the performance of water-borne resin with different fillers is formulated, and it could be applied in all kinds of coatings and mixtures to be used as an effective fire protection system for steel constructions.
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Managing differences is a difficult undertaking, especially considering the difficulties arising from the unconscious functions of our brains. Organisations should strive to…
Abstract
Managing differences is a difficult undertaking, especially considering the difficulties arising from the unconscious functions of our brains. Organisations should strive to counteract the potentially harmful effects of unconscious bias by implementing policies that support bias-aware management and decision-making. Although it is obvious that bias cannot be completely eliminated, there is enough data, as discussed in this work, to demonstrate that unconscious bias and stereotypes can be addressed and decreased with mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) to some extent. Mindfulness involves the process of bringing non-judgemental awareness to experience by striving for full attention in the present moment. In this context, including mindfulness practises into training programmes for equality, diversity, and inclusion may serve as an accelerator for recognising hidden biases, reducing stereotypes, eliminating discrimination, and encouraging cognitive changes. This chapter explains the ways in which MBIs can be used to promote cognitive changes and comprehend the automatic and unconscious nature of emotions and thoughts in order to remove barriers between all differences in the workplace.
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Gavriella Rubin Rojas, Jennifer Feitosa and M. Gloria González-Morales
Mindfulness-based interventions are on the rise in workplace settings to enhance Well-Being and address work stress. Their popularity is in part due to the fact that they are…
Abstract
Mindfulness-based interventions are on the rise in workplace settings to enhance Well-Being and address work stress. Their popularity is in part due to the fact that they are often assumed to have a net positive impact on both workers’ Well-Being and organizational functioning. However, the majority of workplace mindfulness practice and research focuses on individual-level mindfulness interventions and their associated outcomes, like reduced stress. However, the modern workplace is highly dependent on positive team functioning, and the impact of mindfulness in teams is lesser known. This review differentiates individual mindfulness from team mindfulness and explores how both individual and team mindfulness impact team functioning. The authors review mindfulness and teams’ literature to understand antecedents, correlated mediators, and consequences of mindfulness in team contexts, team processes, and the boundary conditions related to mindfulness outcomes. This review adds to the budding theoretical conversation regarding mindfulness at work and contributes valuable insight into the practical applications of mindfulness in teams.
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Boleslav Psota, Alexandr Otáhal and Ivan Szendiuch
– The main aim of this paper is to investigate the influence of the cavity coverage on the printed circuit boards (PCB) to the resonant frequency, acceleration and displacement.
Abstract
Purpose
The main aim of this paper is to investigate the influence of the cavity coverage on the printed circuit boards (PCB) to the resonant frequency, acceleration and displacement.
Design/methodology/approach
Tests were realized on four PCBs with different cavity areas. Frequency range of tests was between 10 and 2,000 Hz with 0.3 g acceleration amplitude. In addition, more simulations were performed to check different setups of the boards.
Findings
From the calculated and measured data, it is clear that with the larger cavity area the resonance frequency drops. In case a greater number of components placed in cavities are needed on board, it is appropriate to use multiple smaller cavities than the bigger ones.
Originality/value
Results in this paper could be very useful for PCB manufacturers and designers during designing of the new PCBs with cavities for dipped components.
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Nhat Van Trieu, Penpaktr Uthis and Sunisa Suktrakul
To study the situation of alcohol relapse and to investigate the relationship between psychological factors and alcohol relapse in persons with alcohol dependence in Thai Nguyen…
Abstract
Purpose
To study the situation of alcohol relapse and to investigate the relationship between psychological factors and alcohol relapse in persons with alcohol dependence in Thai Nguyen hospitals, Vietnam.
Design/methodology/approach
A correlation study was conducted among 110 patients. Data were collected through structured interviews and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman's correlation coefficient (rs).
Findings
More than two-thirds of the participants were found to relapse more than once (
Practical implications
The findings of this study are significant implications for relapse prevention strategies. It suggests that the essential parts of relapse prevention are through: changing alcohol expectations, increase drinking refusal self-efficacy, coping skills training, enhancing motivation to change, managing alcohol craving and expanding social support.
Originality/value
This is the first study in Vietnam which investigated the relationship between psychological factors and alcohol relapse in individuals with alcohol dependence.
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Lurdes Esteves, Mário Franco and Margarida Rodrigues
The study of mindfulness is still shown to be of interest in different aspects of organisations and/or businesses. Therefore, this study aims to present an integrative…
Abstract
Purpose
The study of mindfulness is still shown to be of interest in different aspects of organisations and/or businesses. Therefore, this study aims to present an integrative, multi-level model of mindfulness based on a holistic approach that can contribute to better governance practices and lead to competitive advantages.
Design/methodology/approach
To fulfil this aim, an extensive integrative review of the literature, from the main articles about this topic, was made.
Findings
This study shows that the concept of mindfulness, a conscious presence or full attention and its relation with organisations or firms’ personal, behavioural and social characteristics, in the current context of great adversity, uncertainty and unpredictability, is of interest at the individual, organisational and social level.
Practical implications
This conceptual study has important implications for both practice and theory. It demonstrates that mindfulness significantly impacts the manager/business person’s ecosystem at the individual, organisational and social levels, particularly in relation to Sustainable Development Goals.
Originality/value
This study introduces a comprehensive theoretical model that explains this relationship and organises information from a multi-level perspective. This approach can contribute to the advancement of theory by clarifying and discussing the role of mindfulness at the individual, organisational and societal levels. It also identifies opportunities and outlines future research directions, aiming to promote more sustainable development.
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Sumran Ali, Jawaria Ashraf, Muhammad Ghufran, Peng Xiaobao and Liu Zhiying
This study has aimed to analyse the role of innovation-sharing collaboration in the large-scale manufacturing of Covid-19 vaccination across the globe and its impact on the…
Abstract
Purpose
This study has aimed to analyse the role of innovation-sharing collaboration in the large-scale manufacturing of Covid-19 vaccination across the globe and its impact on the mortality rate of the countries where the pharmaceutical manufacturers received such innovation.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors have relied upon the difference-in-difference (DID) approach by utilizing the data available on public platforms such as World Health Organization (WHO) databank, organization for economic co-operation and development (OECD) data bank, istat, Indian bureau of statistics and European centre for disease prevention and control (ecdc) from 2020 to 2021 to establish the empirical inference of the analysis.
Findings
This study’s results present that after the invention and commercialization of the vaccine, the Covid-19 impact was still intact and people were dying continuously. However, it was impossible to fulfil the demand of the 7 billion population in a short time. In the light of these facts, the WHO encouraged sharing vaccine innovation with other countries to enhance production capacity. The authors found that after vaccine innovation sharing, Covid-19’s devastation slowed: the fatality rate was marginally reduced, and economic conditions started their recovery journey.
Originality/value
This study’s findings present that the Covid-19 vaccine played a pivotal role in tackling the Covid-19’s devastating impact on the entire world. It emphasizes the role of innovation-sharing collaborations in curtailing hazardous consequences, including the mortality rate during a crisis, and such collaborations’ impact on the countries where institutions involved in them reside.
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Norian A. Caporale-Berkowitz, Brittany P. Boyer, Christopher J. Lyddy, Darren J. Good, Aaron B. Rochlen and Michael C. Parent
Workplace mindfulness training has many benefits, but designing programs to reach a wide audience effectively and efficiently remains a challenge. The purpose of this study is to…
Abstract
Purpose
Workplace mindfulness training has many benefits, but designing programs to reach a wide audience effectively and efficiently remains a challenge. The purpose of this study is to assess the effects of a widely adopted workplace mindfulness program on the mindfulness, active listening skill, emotional intelligence, and burnout of employees in a large, multinational internet company.
Design/methodology/approach
The study sample included 123 employees across three company offices who completed the two‐day Search Inside Yourself (SIY) program. Data were collected using self‐report measures pre‐, post‐, and four‐weeks post‐intervention and were analyzed using paired samples t-tests.
Findings
Significant increases were detected in mindfulness and the “awareness of emotion” components of emotional intelligence four weeks post-course. No significant changes were found in participants' self-reported levels of burnout, active listening skill or the “management of emotion” components of emotional intelligence.
Practical implications
Teaching workplace mindfulness and emotional intelligence skills through a highly applied, condensed course format may be effective for increasing mindfulness and the “awareness” components of emotional intelligence. Longer courses with more applied practice may be necessary to help participants build emotional management and listening skills and to reduce burnout.
Originality/value
The present study is, to the authors’ knowledge, the first academic, peer-reviewed assessment of SIY, a workplace mindfulness training program that has been taught to over 50,000 people worldwide.
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Jaspreet Kaur, Rambabu Lavuri, Park Thaichon and Brett Martin
The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of scarcity and the Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS) consumption tendency on the purchase intention of organic…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of scarcity and the Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS) consumption tendency on the purchase intention of organic foods. The study used the protection motivation theory and the stimulus-organism-response theory to understand the impact of comparatively new variables like “perceived scarcity” and “perceived consumer effectiveness” (PCE) on the consumer's organic food purchase intentions.
Design/methodology/approach
The study is using structural equation modeling with 402 organic food consumers. The participants are regular consumers who bought organic food from specialized shops and supermarkets in the previous few months. The data has been collected at organic food specialized shops and supermarkets that sell organic foods.
Findings
The results showed that LOHAS consumption tendency (LCT), scarcity and PCE positively affect attitude. Similarly, LCT and PCE direct affect trust. Scarcity and PCE directly positive impact on purchase intention of organic food products. Interestingly, LCT had no direct impact on the purchase intention of the product. Trust and attitude were found to be significant mediators impacting purchase intention.
Originality/value
The study contributes to the past theoretical literature on LOHAS consumption by analyzing new constructs like scarcity and PCE in the context of organic food consumption. These findings will be crucial for marketers planning to launch organic products in new markets.