Search results

1 – 10 of 39
Per page
102050
Citations:
Loading...
Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 18 October 2021

Umesh Luthra, Prabhakar Babu, Remya R.R., Angeline Julius, Yogesh Patel, Ramesh Jajula Veera and Ilma Majeed

β-Carotene is the most appropriate and significant precursor of vitamin A. Synthetic carotene supplements have been known to pose a threat to human health, making natural sources…

133

Abstract

Purpose

β-Carotene is the most appropriate and significant precursor of vitamin A. Synthetic carotene supplements have been known to pose a threat to human health, making natural sources such as the indefensible choice for the production and extraction of carotene.

Design/methodology/approach

This study considers Blakeslea trispora, a filamentous fungus, as a source of production of carotenoids by fermentation and wet and dry mycelium were used to analyse and obtain better extraction results.

Findings

In this study, natural oils such as soy oil and cottonseed oil were incorporated into fermentation media to increase the production of carotene. For the optimization process, Plackett–Burman and one-factor-at-a-time (OVAT) models were identified as being of great value.

Originality/value

OVAT was carried out for corn starch because it plays a major role in the production of carotene and the corn starch at 30 g/L concentration has shown the maximum activity of 3.48 mg/gm. After optimizing process variables, submerged fermentation was eventually carried out under highly controlled media conditions. The resulting product was quantified using UV spectroscopy and extraction of carotene has been observed in the presence of various solvents. Among a range of solvents used, the methylene Di chloride produced-carotene at 86% recovery at a significantly lower temperature of 35°C.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 51 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 September 2004

R. Remya, S. Syamkumar and B. Sasikumar

An efficient protocol for the isolation of high molecular weight DNA from dry powdered samples of turmeric including market samples is described which will help in PCR based…

2162

Abstract

An efficient protocol for the isolation of high molecular weight DNA from dry powdered samples of turmeric including market samples is described which will help in PCR based detection of adulteration in marketed turmeric powders. The method involves a modified CTAB (3 per cent) procedure with 2 M NaCl, 0.3 per cent β‐mercaptoethanol coupled with purification of DNA in 30 per cent polyethylene glycol (8000). The yield of the DNA obtained from the samples varied from 2 to 4 μg/g tissue. The DNA obtained from the five different samples were consistently amplifiable (RAPD primers).

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 106 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Available. Open Access. Open Access
Article
Publication date: 11 August 2021

Mazed Parvez, Nazmus Sadat, Farhana Tasnim and Israt Jahan Nejhum

Pabna is suffering from waterlogging problems from ancient times. The previous Drainage Master Plan was failed due to the lack of reflection of the general people of Pabna…

2194

Abstract

Purpose

Pabna is suffering from waterlogging problems from ancient times. The previous Drainage Master Plan was failed due to the lack of reflection of the general people of Pabna Municipality. As a result, this study focuses on identifying the causes of waterlogging in people's eyes. This paper will help the local authority and planners eradicate the waterlogging problem and build a planned and resilient community.

Design/methodology/approach

Both primary and secondary data were used for the study. Present drainage pattern, topology climatic elements were collected from the journals, websites and Municipal Ingratiated Development Plan (MIDP), Pabna-2008. The sample size was 246, and this respondent was surveyed. By the survey, the people's perception of waterlogging was collected. For that, five independent variables and one dependent variable were determined. These variables were determined by previous studies, reconnaissance survey of the study area. It used multiple linear regression and the correlation method; the causes of waterlogging were determined.

Findings

The study found solid waste disposal into the drainage, absence of operation and maintenance system, small discharge capacity with blocked in the current drains, nonappearance of combined drainage network of roadside drains and unplanned drainage system as the leading causes of waterlogging from the perception of the people. Also found that the absence of operation and maintenance system, solid waste disposal into the drainage and unplanned drainage system as the influencing causes on small discharge capacity with blocked in the current drains.

Originality/value

This study has focused on people's perceptions rather than secondary data. That is why this study will significantly impact eradicating the waterlogging problem from the Pabna Municipality and will carry out the core problems without any bias. This will lead to a sustainable, planned and resilient community.

Details

Ecofeminism and Climate Change, vol. 2 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2633-4062

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 13 August 2024

Dhanya Praveen and Jayarajan Kunnampalli

This paper aims to inform the readers an overview of expected impacts of sea level rise (SLR) and climate change on rice crops area, yield and the urgent need to build climate…

84

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to inform the readers an overview of expected impacts of sea level rise (SLR) and climate change on rice crops area, yield and the urgent need to build climate responsive infrastructures to a coastal district, Alappuzha – a high-risk area which is already under mean sea level (MSL). This research carried out to understand the realities and impacts with respect to the exposures of rise in SLR and possible inundation extent of crop land. The extreme precipitation events have caused crop loss and damage, numerous casualties and enormous economic loss in this district during the recent past and project the likely impacts under anticipated climate change.

Design/methodology/approach

Global sea levels have already been risen noticeably as a result of climate change, and this trend is anticipated to continue. To reflect on the research objectives, the paper projects a climate change scenario analysis and impact assessment on the major crop grown, i.e. rice, using a crop simulation model, DSSAT 4.7 as the first part of the study. QGIS 3.28 version and Erdas Imagine software were used for land use land cover analysis and to delineate possible inundation in the major land use land cover, especially in agriculture area under SLR scenario. It points out the need to equip the district urgently with climate responsive agriculture strategies as majority of the area comes under 10 mts of elevation as per the Sentinel 2 data. For better adapting to the current and future climate change impacts in the aspects of built environment such as early warnings in farm sector in particular and forests, urban water management, transportation systems, building construction and operation and land use planning in general. Climate change is no longer a policy issue alone; now it is a common man’s nightmare. For a coastal state like Kerala, extreme climate events during 2018 and 2019 and 2021 have posed substantial impacts and damages on the environment and society. The impacts hit the vulnerable communities in multiple ways.

Findings

From the analysis, it was revealed that there is an increasing trend in rainfall observed over the past three decades in Alappuzha district. It is projected that day and night time temperatures may increase in Alappuzha by 2.5°C and 2.6°C by 2100, respectively, under RCP 4.5. With unchecked pollution or emission reduction actions, warming may further rise and hence the median projection when SLR reaches 2.4 meters (8 ft) at Alappuzha to Cochin coast is 2130s. The possible inundation analysis shows that around 53.48% of the coastal agriculture land may be likely inundated if SLR is only with mitigation measures such as extreme carbon cuts, SLR rise can be delayed till 2200. Alappuzha is known as the rice bowl of Kerala; however, it is highly exposed to climate vulnerability in terms of its unique environmental geographical settings like coastal wetlands, lagoons and sand beaches. DSSAT simulations shows that Uma rice, a major ruling variety in the region, may have yield reductions of up to 13% in the near century for Alappuzha.

Research limitations/implications

This paper in general explains the projected climate change perspectives for Alappuzha, a climate change hotspot of Kerala with respect to SLR and coastal agriculture. and a review of the progression of DRR in the built environment and mainstreaming CCA and DRR by government and other agencies in the state.

Practical implications

This study underscores the urgent need for climate-responsive agricultural strategies in Alappuzha, Kerala, due to anticipated sea level rise, climate change, and land use changes. Equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools to adapt is essential for ensuring food security and sustainable livelihoods. Implementing climate-resilient practices and technologies will help mitigate adverse effects on rice crops, promoting economic stability and resilience in the region. Involving local stakeholders in the adaptation process is crucial, as their participation can enhance collaboration, increase awareness, and accelerate the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, making the transition smoother and more effective.

Social implications

It is the responsibility of the scientific community to inform the knowledge gained for the benefit of the society, especially on criticality of altering the existing land use pattern and building climate resilient coastal infrastructures. Studies such as this can stand as basis for implementing planned adaption actions. This is to conclude that instead of working in silos, mainstreaming climate change adaptation holistically across sectors is very necessary at this crucial hour. Participatory action plans and policies involving all local stakeholders can strengthen awareness and fasten the learning processes for adaptation including managed retreats.

Originality/value

At present, there are no specific studies, on the impacts of climate change and SLR on rice cropping systems in the district which specifically inform how to mainstream adaptation in the agriculture strategies in low lying coastal zones of Alappuzha.

Details

International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, vol. 15 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-5908

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 4 September 2017

Zeinab Abdel Hamid, Sayed Abd El Rehim and Moustafa Ibrahim

The purpose of this work was to investigate the effect of Si content of steel substrate on the performance of the hot-dip galvanized layer. Moreover, the structure of the…

255

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this work was to investigate the effect of Si content of steel substrate on the performance of the hot-dip galvanized layer. Moreover, the structure of the galvanized layers and the corrosion performance of the galvanized steel in 3.5 per cent NaCl solution have been studied.

Design/methodology/approach

The galvanized layer has been formed by the hot-dip technique, and the influence of silicon content in the steel composition on the corrosion performance of the galvanized steel was estimated. The surface morphologies and chemical compositions of the coated layers were assessed using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, respectively. Potentiodynamic polarization Tafel lines and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests were used to evaluate the corrosion resistance of the galvanized steel in 3.5 per cent NaCl solution.

Findings

The results proved that adhere, compact and continuous coatings were formed with steel containing 0.56 Wt.% Si, while cracks and overly thick coatings were obtained with steel containing 1.46 Wt.% Si. Tafel plots illustrated that the corrosion rate of galvanized steel containing 0.08 and 0.56 Wt.% Si was lower than that of the galvanized steel containing 1.46 Wt.% Si. Also, the results of the EIS reveal that the impedance of the galvanized steel containing 0.08 and 0.56 Wt.% Si was the highest and the lowest, respectively, with the steel containing 1.46 Wt.% Si.

Social implications

Generally, in industry steels containing high amounts of silicon (0.15-0.25 Wt.%) can be galvanized satisfactory either by controlling the temperature (440°C) or adding Ni to the galvanized bath. The low temperature reduces the coating thickness; nickel amount must be controlled to prevent the formation of higher amounts of dross. This study proved that high Si steel of up to 0.56 Wt.% can be galvanized at 460°C without adding Ni to the galvanized bath and form adhere, compact, free cracks and have good corrosion resistance. Consequently, a social benefit can be associated with galvanizing high Si steel, leading to an increase in the cost of the process.

Originality/value

The results presented in this work are an insight into understanding the hot-dip galvanizing of high Si steel. The corrosion resistance of galvanized steel containing 0.56 Wt.% Si alloys has been considered as a promising behavior. In this work, a consistent assessment of the results was achieved on the laboratory scale.

Details

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, vol. 64 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0003-5599

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 8 August 2016

Payal Mehra

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impact of extended waiting time on patients’ perceptions of provider communication skills and in-clinic satisfaction, in three major…

1459

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impact of extended waiting time on patients’ perceptions of provider communication skills and in-clinic satisfaction, in three major cities in India.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 625 patients were interviewed. The multivariate general linear model was used to determine the causality and relationship between the independent and the dependent variable. A moderation analysis was also conducted to assess waiting time role as a potential moderator in doctor-patient communication.

Findings

Results show that patients with higher waiting time were less satisfied with health care quality. Male patients and patients of male providers were more affected by extended waiting time than female patients and patients of female providers. The advanced regression analysis, however, suggests weak support for waiting time and its effect on overall satisfaction with clinic quality. Waiting time did not moderate the relationship between satisfaction with dominant communication style, and overall satisfaction at the outpatient clinic.

Research limitations/implications

A cross-sectional study does not easily lend itself to explaining causality with certainty. Thus, sophisticated techniques, such as structural equation modelling may also be utilized to assess the influence of extended waiting time on satisfaction with healthcare at outpatient clinics.

Practical implications

Findings are relevant for providers as the onus is on them to ensure patient satisfaction. They should initiate a workable waiting time assessment model at the operational level.

Originality/value

There has been a relatively lesser focus on patient waiting time in patient-provider satisfaction studies. In India, this aspect is still vastly unexplored especially in the context of outpatient clinics. Gender wise pattern of patient satisfaction and waiting time is also missing in most studies.

Details

International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, vol. 29 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0952-6862

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 17 May 2011

K. Dhanya, S. Syamkumar, S. Siju and B. Sasikumar

This study aims to treat the development and application of sequence characterised amplified region (SCAR) markers for the detection of plant based adulterants (dried red beet…

638

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to treat the development and application of sequence characterised amplified region (SCAR) markers for the detection of plant based adulterants (dried red beet pulp and powdered Ziziphus nummularia fruits) in traded ground chilli.

Design/methodology/approach

Adulterant‐specific DNA fragments (red beet pulp specific – “Beet 01” and Z. nummularia specific – “Ziz 01”) identified by random amplified polymorphic DNA polymerase chain reaction (RAPD‐PCR) analysis were cloned and sequenced for SCAR marker development. Red beet pulp specific SCAR primer pair, B1, and Z. nummularia specific SCAR primer pair, Z1, were designed from the corresponding RAPD marker sequences to amplify SCAR markers of 320 bp and 389 bp, respectively. The utility of the SCAR markers for adulterant detection was verified in model blends of chilli powder with the adulterants. Six commercial samples of ground chilli powder were analysed using the SCAR markers.

Findings

SCAR markers could detect the adulterants at a concentration as low as 10 g adulterant kg−1 of blended sample. The Z. nummularia SCAR marker could detect the presence of Z. nummularia fruit adulteration in one of the commercial samples. All the market samples tested were free from red beet pulp adulteration.

Practical implications

The PCR‐based method developed in the study is simple, rapid, and sensitive and has the potential to be developed into a quantitative analytical method and for commercial PCR kits for the large‐scale screening of ground chilli to detect and prevent plant‐based adulterants. The work has public health significance too, as ground chilli is one of the major spices consumed worldwide.

Originality/value

The study is the first report on the development of SCAR markers for adulterant detection in ground chilli. This work has relevance, as adulteration is a major concern of the sanitary and phytosanitary issues of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreement.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 113 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Available. Content available
Article
Publication date: 19 January 2024

M.P. Akhil, Remya Lathabhavan and Aparna Merin Mathew

By a thorough bibliometric examination of the area through time, this paper analyses the research landscape of metaverse in education. It is an effort that is focused on the…

394

Abstract

Purpose

By a thorough bibliometric examination of the area through time, this paper analyses the research landscape of metaverse in education. It is an effort that is focused on the metaverse research trends, academic production and conceptual focus of scientific publications.

Design/methodology/approach

The Web of Science (WoS) database was explored for information containing research articles and associated publications that met the requirements. For a thorough analysis of the trend, thematic focus and scientific output in the subject of metaverse in education, a bibliometric technique was used to analyse the data. The bibliometrix package of R software, specifically the biblioshiny interface of R-studio, was used to conduct the analysis.

Findings

The analysis of the metaverse in education spanning from 1995 to the beginning of 2023 reveals a dynamic and evolving landscape. Notably, the field has experienced robust annual growth, with a peak of publications in 2022. Citation analysis highlights seminal works, with Dionisio et al. (2013) leading discussions on the transition of virtual worlds into intricate digital cultures. Thematic mapping identifies dominant themes such as “system,” “augmented reality” and “information technology,” indicating a strong technological focus. Surprisingly, China emerges as a leading contributor with significant citation impact, emphasising the global nature of metaverse research. The thematic map suggests ongoing developments in performance and future aspects, emphasising the essential role of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Overall, the findings depict a vibrant and multidimensional metaverse in education, poised for continued exploration and innovation.

Originality/value

The study is among the pioneers that provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis in the area of metaverse in education which will guide the novice researchers to identify the unexplored areas.

Details

Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, vol. 14 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-3896

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Case study
Publication date: 13 November 2023

Ann Mary Varghese, R. Sai Shiva Jayanth, Remya Tressa Jacob, Abhishek Srivastava and Rudra Prakash Pradhan

The learning outcomes of this case study are to understand the business model canvas and value propositions and apply advanced business innovation tools in electric vehicle…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes of this case study are to understand the business model canvas and value propositions and apply advanced business innovation tools in electric vehicle business models; evaluate the current cargo vehicle scenarios at national and global levels and draw out the possibilities and costs for a new player; extrapolate the future scenario of the cargo economy, its electrification and positioning in a business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-customer (B2C) segment, especially for a developing economy; and improve the student’s ability to get organisational buy-in and execute new business models.

Case overview/synopsis

LoadExx is a fully electrified electric cargo service focusing on logistics in Kolkata, a metropolitan city in the eastern part of the country. The service of LoadExx commenced in January 2021 in the B2B segment after overcoming its then issues of driver hesitancy and customer anxiety and financial issues to adopt electrified cargo systems. The conundrum faced by LoadExx in its commencement thus had been solved under the able guidance of its owner Amit Arora. The case study was positioned four months after the commencement of LoadExx. To gain market power and traction, Arora and his team came up with the idea of market expansion. However, the current conundrum was whether LoadExx would enter the B2C segment in its current location or expand with the same business model to other parts of the country. The expansion was to be implemented in the immediate future to retain its rarity and reduce the imitability of the business model of LoadExx. This case study details the logistics and market operations of the cargo sector, especially electric cargo, in a developing economy, especially India. A teaching note supplementing the “Cracking the conundrum of e-cargo logistics: curious case of LoadExx” case study has been provided.

Complexity academic level

This case study is designed for undergraduate and postgraduate students and senior management professionals in executive education programmes undertaking courses in logistics management and supply chain operations and related cargo logistics courses. This case study denotes integrating key processes from end-users and gaining the trust of drivers, thereby showing the perspective of the plight and conundrums of a cargo aggregator working in the B2C segment. This case study could be used to discuss concepts related to not-for-profit firms, aggregators, policymakers and think tanks.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 9: Operations and logistics.

Details

Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies, vol. 13 no. 3
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 2045-0621

Keywords

Available. Open Access. Open Access
Article
Publication date: 13 June 2016

Hisahiro Ishijima, Eliudi Eliakimu and Jonathan Mcharo Mshana

The purpose of this paper is to assess causal relations between the implementation of the 5S approach and the reduction of patients’ waiting time at out patient departments (OPDs…

18572

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess causal relations between the implementation of the 5S approach and the reduction of patients’ waiting time at out patient departments (OPDs) of hospitals in Tanzania.

Design/methodology/approach

Patients’ waiting time was measured under the cluster randomized control trial (c-RCT). In all, 16 hospitals were chosen and divided into treatment and control groups using block randomization. Before the intervention, a baseline study was conducted at OPDs in all 16 hospitals. After one year of the intervention, the end-line study was carried out in both the groups. A comparison of the average waiting time reduction and Difference-in-Difference (DID) analysis was carried out to see the effect of the 5S approach on the reduction of patients’ waiting time.

Findings

Statistical significance in reduction of patients’ waiting time was seen in the medical records sections (p=0.002) and consultation rooms (p=0.020) in the intervention group. The same trend was also seen using DID analysis (−15.66 min in medical record, −41.90 min in consultation rooms).

Research limitations/implications

This study has the following limitations in terms of the data. The data were collected for only three days at the time of baseline survey, and again for three days at the time of the end-line survey from 16 hospitals. Moreover, piloted areas for the implementation of the 5S approach vary from hospital to hospital. There might be a bias in the measurement of a patient’s waiting time. Caveats are therefore needed in extrapolating the study results to other settings. Despite these caveats, the findings will provide important insights for implementing quality improvement programs in Tanzania and in other African countries for improvement of time factors.

Originality/value

This study used c-RCT, and has proven the effectiveness of the 5S approach in improving the working environment and reducing patients’ waiting time at OPDs in several hospitals at district level in Tanzania.

Details

The TQM Journal, vol. 28 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2731

Keywords

1 – 10 of 39
Per page
102050