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Article
Publication date: 1 September 2019

W Feng, L Wenhua and G. Xiangguan

The cultural tourism industry, which has subtly met the needs and solved the major problem of the current age, is a new growth point for the current city economic growth…

284

Abstract

The cultural tourism industry, which has subtly met the needs and solved the major problem of the current age, is a new growth point for the current city economic growth. Therefore, its position in the industrial structure system will be increasingly improved. The development of the cultural tourism industry also provides an important opportunity for the renewal and re-engineering of urban space. For the current urban space construction crisis needs the integration of historical and cultural elements urgently while the development of the cultural tourism industry itself happened to need the city to provide the necessary carrying space and incubation carrier urgently as well. Thus this research discusses the construction of urban visual planning system and the specific implementation path from the perspective of the development of cultural tourism industry.

Details

Open House International, vol. 44 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0168-2601

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 June 2020

Kesheng Lin, Jie Liu, Jia-Min Wu, Yunlong Sun, Feng Li, Yan Zhou and Yusheng Shi

The main cause of aseptic inflammation after an in vivo implantation is that Poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and Poly(D-lactide) have a slower degradation and absorption rate, while…

Abstract

Purpose

The main cause of aseptic inflammation after an in vivo implantation is that Poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and Poly(D-lactide) have a slower degradation and absorption rate, while Poly(D, L-lactide) (PDLLA) has a much faster degradation rate than PLLA because of its amorphous structure. Also, the hydrolyzate of Hydroxyapatite (HA) is alkaline, which can neutralize local tissue peracid caused by hydrolysis of Polylactic acid.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the selective laser sintering (SLS) technique was chosen to prepare bone scaffolds using nano-HA/PDLLA composite microspheres, which were prepared by the solid-in-oil-in-water (S/O/W) method. First, the SLS parameters range of bulk was determined by the result of a single-layer experiment and the optimized parameters were then obtained by the orthogonal experiment. The tensile property, hydrophobicity, biocompatibility, biological toxicity and in vitro degradation of the samples with optimized SLS parameters were characterized.

Findings

As a result, the samples showed a lower tensile strength because of the many holes in their interior, which was conducive to better cell adhesion and nutrient transport. In addition, the samples retained their inherent properties after SLS and the hydrophobicity was improved after adding nano-HA because of the OH group. Furthermore, the samples showed good biocompatibility with the large number of cells adhering to the material through pseudopods and there was no significant difference between the pure PDLLA and 10% HA/PDLLA in terms of biological toxicity. Finally, the degradation rate of the composites could be tailored by the amount of nano-HA.

Originality/value

This study combined the S/O/W and SLS technique and provides a theoretical future basis for the preparation of drug-loaded microsphere scaffolds through SLS using HA/PDLLA composites.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 26 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 August 2021

Lin-sheng Liu, Qian Lin, Hai-feng Wu, Yi-Jun Chen and Liu-Lin Hu

The design and implementation of a broadband quasi-monolithic microwave integrated circuit (q-MMIC) power amplifier (PA) is presented for 0.2 to 2.2 GHz applications.

Abstract

Purpose

The design and implementation of a broadband quasi-monolithic microwave integrated circuit (q-MMIC) power amplifier (PA) is presented for 0.2 to 2.2 GHz applications.

Design/methodology/approach

To obtain an efficient, high-gain and high-power performance with in a compact and low-cost size, the prototype is based on Gallium nitride (GaN) on SiC 0.25-µm transistors, whereas the passive matching networks are realized on an AlN substrate as thin film circuit.

Findings

Measured results of the q-MMIC PA across the 0.2 to 2.2 GHz band show at least 32 ± 3 dB small-signal gains, an output power of 7 to 12 W and an average power add efficiency greater than 54%. The q-MMIC occupies an area of 12.8 × 14.5 mm2.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this work reports the first full integrated PA which covers the frequency range of 0.2 to 2.2 GHz and achieves the combination of highest gain, about 10 W output power, together with the smallest component size among all published GaN PAs to date.

Details

Circuit World, vol. 49 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0305-6120

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 August 2023

Biao Liu, Qiao Wang, Y.T. Feng, Zongliang Zhang, Quanshui Huang, Wenxiang Tian and Wei Zhou

3D steady heat conduction analysis considering heat source is conducted on the fundamental of the fast multipole method (FMM)-accelerated line integration boundary element method…

Abstract

Purpose

3D steady heat conduction analysis considering heat source is conducted on the fundamental of the fast multipole method (FMM)-accelerated line integration boundary element method (LIBEM).

Design/methodology/approach

Due to considering the heat source, domain integral is generated in the traditional heat conduction boundary integral equation (BIE), which will counteract the well-known merit of the BEM, namely, boundary-only discretization. To avoid volume discretization, the enhanced BEM, the LIBEM with dimension reduction property is introduced to transfer the domain integral into line integrals. Besides, owing to the unsatisfactory performance of the LIBEM when it comes to large-scale structures requiring massive computation, the FMM-accelerated LIBEM (FM-LIBEM) is proposed to improve the computation efficiency further.

Findings

Assuming N and M are the numbers of nodes and integral lines, respectively, the FM-LIBEM can reduce the time complexity from O(NM) to about O(N+ M), and a full discussion and verification of the advantage are done based on numerical examples under heat conduction.

Originality/value

(1) The LIBEM is applied to 3D heat conduction analysis with heat source. (2) The domain integrals can be transformed into boundary integrals with straight line integrals by the LIM. (3) A FM-LIBEM is proposed and can reduce the time complexity from O(NM) to O(N+ M). (4) The FM-LIBEM with high computational efficiency is exerted to solve 3D heat conduction analysis with heat source in massive computation successfully.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 40 no. 7/8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 July 2022

Da Teng, Yun-Wen Feng, Jun-Yu Chen and Cheng Lu

The purpose of this paper is to briefly summarize and review the theories and methods of complex structures’ dynamic reliability. Complex structures are usually assembled from…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to briefly summarize and review the theories and methods of complex structures’ dynamic reliability. Complex structures are usually assembled from multiple components and subjected to time-varying loads of aerodynamic, structural, thermal and other physical fields; its reliability analysis is of great significance to ensure the safe operation of large-scale equipment such as aviation and machinery.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper for the single-objective dynamic reliability analysis of complex structures, the calculation can be categorized into Monte Carlo (MC), outcrossing rate, envelope functions and extreme value methods. The series-parallel and expansion methods, multi-extremum surrogate models and decomposed-coordinated surrogate models are summarized for the multiobjective dynamic reliability analysis of complex structures.

Findings

The numerical complex compound function and turbine blisk are used as examples to illustrate the performance of single-objective and multiobjective dynamic reliability analysis methods. Then the future development direction of dynamic reliability analysis of complex structures is prospected.

Originality/value

The paper provides a useful reference for further theoretical research and engineering application.

Details

International Journal of Structural Integrity, vol. 13 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-9864

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 July 2020

Yaw Agyabeng-Mensah, Ebenezer Afum, Carin Agnikpe, Jiaxin Cai, Esther Ahenkorah and Essel Dacosta

The desire for firms to gain competitive advantage and improve performance has resulted in the adoption of several practices. Green supply chain practices (GSCPs), just in time…

2320

Abstract

Purpose

The desire for firms to gain competitive advantage and improve performance has resulted in the adoption of several practices. Green supply chain practices (GSCPs), just in time (JIT) and total quality management (TQM) are some of the practices adopted by firms to improve operational performance (OP) and business performance (BP). This study examines the direct influence of GSCPs, JIT and TQM on operational performance and BP. The study further analyzes the synergy of GSCPs, JIT and TQM on OP and BP.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs the quantitative approach of research by using questionnaire to gather data from manufacturing managers and supply chain managers of 140 manufacturing firms in Ghana. The research uses partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS–SEM) to analyze the survey data.

Findings

The results of the analysis show that GSCPs, TQM and JIT positively influence both OP and BP. The findings reveal that GSCPs combine with JIT and TQM to improve OP and BP significantly. However, the synergy between green supply chain and TQM creates more value for both OP and BP than the synergy between GSCPs and JIT.

Originality/value

The study proposes a research model that examines both the individual and combined influence of GSCPs, TQM and JIT on both OP and BP from the developing country perspective. The study models GSCPs as an antecedent of JIT and TQM, which has not been explored.

Details

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 32 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-038X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 June 2022

Ting Chen, Feng Yang, Feifei Shan and Fengmei Xu

Opaque selling has become popular among service providers in recent years. Although many researchers have investigated the optimality of opaque selling for service providers…

Abstract

Purpose

Opaque selling has become popular among service providers in recent years. Although many researchers have investigated the optimality of opaque selling for service providers focusing on heterogeneous consumers, one question remaining unexplored is how the service providers’ optimal decisions are impacted by competitive intensity in a heterogeneous market. This paper aims to determine the conditions under which opaque selling is optimal for competing service providers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes a Hotelling model to characterize the competition between two service providers. The authors also consider the interaction between the service providers and intermediary. Service providers act as game leaders and determine whether they should cooperate with the intermediary to introduce the opaque service.

Findings

The authors find that two competing service providers do not always benefit from opaque selling in a heterogeneous market consisting of leisure and business consumers, and the competitive intensity plays a significant role in the service providers’ decision optimization. Opaque selling allows service providers to acquire more profit in a highly competitive market or when the market contains a large proportion of leisure consumers. Otherwise, it is optimal for service providers without introducing the opaque selling.

Practical implications

The paper examines the optimality of opaque selling for competing service providers, and provides the suggestions to optimize the service providers’ decisions.

Originality/value

The paper investigates how the service providers’ optimal decisions are impacted by competitive intensity, considering the interaction between the service providers and intermediary.

Details

Asia Pacific Journal of Marketing and Logistics, vol. 35 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-5855

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 April 2020

Yaw Agyabeng-Mensah, Esther Ahenkorah, Ebenezer Afum, Adu Nana Agyemang, Carin Agnikpe and Foday Rogers

This study aims to examine the direct impact of internal green supply chain practices (IGSCP) on green human resource management (GHRM), supply chain environmental cooperation…

3397

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the direct impact of internal green supply chain practices (IGSCP) on green human resource management (GHRM), supply chain environmental cooperation (SCEC) and firm performance (FP). The mediating influences of GHRM and SCEC on the influence of IGSCP on FP are also examined. The study further examines the mediating influence of SCEC on the link between GHRM and FP.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a quantitative method where data is gathered from human resource and supply chain managers of 139 manufacturing firms (food, beverage and alcohol, textiles, agrochemical and plastics), using customized questionnaires. The data is analyzed using the partial least square structural equation modeling software (SmartPLS 3.2.8).

Findings

The results suggest that the adoption of only IGSCP may negatively affect the market and financial performances of firms. However, the implementation of GHRM and SCEC may catalyze IGSCP to improve FP.

Originality/value

The study develops a comprehensive empirical model that tests the joint influence of internal green supply chain, GHRM and SCEC on FP. The findings indicate that IGSCP, GHRM and SCEC help firms to advance FP.

Details

Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, vol. 25 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-8546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 May 2024

Xingmin Liu, Tongsheng Zhu, Yutong Xue, Ziqiang Huang and Yun Le

Carbon reduction in the construction supply chain can critically affect the construction industry’s transition to an environmentally sustainable one. However, implementing carbon…

Abstract

Purpose

Carbon reduction in the construction supply chain can critically affect the construction industry’s transition to an environmentally sustainable one. However, implementing carbon reduction in all parties is restricted because of the poor understanding of the drivers influencing the low-carbon construction supply chain (LCCSC). The purpose of this paper is to systematically identify the drivers of LCCSC, analyze their causality, and prioritize the importance of their management.

Design/methodology/approach

A decision-making analysis process was developed using an integrated decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL)–analytical network process (ANP). First, the hierarchical drivers of the LCCSC were identified through a literature review. The DEMATEL method was subsequently applied to analyze the interactions between the drivers, including the direction and strength of impact. Finally, the ANP analysis was used to obtain the drivers’ weights; consequently, their priorities were established.

Findings

Various factors with complex interactions drive LCCSC. With respect to their influence relationships, incentive policy, regulatory policy, consumers’ low-carbon preference, market competition, supply chain performance, and managers’ low-carbon awareness have more significant center degrees and are cause drivers. Their strong correlations and influence on other drivers should be noticed. In terms of weights in the driver system, regulatory policy, consumers’ low-carbon preference, supply chain performance, and incentive policy are the key drivers of LCCSC and require primary attention. Other drivers, such as supply chain collaboration, employee motivation, and public participation, play a minor driving role with less management priority.

Originality/value

Despite some contributing studies with localized perspectives, the systematic analysis of LCCSC drivers is limited, especially considering their intricate interactions. This paper establishes the LCCSC driver system, explores the influence relationships among the drivers, and determines the key drivers. Hence, it contributes to the sustainable construction supply chain domain by enabling decision-makers and practitioners to systematically understand the drivers of LCCSC and gain management implications on priority issues with limited resources.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 June 2024

Mohamed El Mokadem and Magdy Khalaf

The aim of this research is to examine the relationship between green supply chain management and sustainability performance in a manufacturing context.

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this research is to examine the relationship between green supply chain management and sustainability performance in a manufacturing context.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey approach was adopted to collect data from 163 manufacturing organizations to test the research hypotheses. A structural equation modeling (SEM) using the technique of path analysis with bootstrapping is used to test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The research findings provide supporting evidence for the importance of implementing green supply chain management (GSCM) as a holistic system that includes internal and external green practices. Besides, the findings highlight the direct effect of GSCM on environmental, social and operational performance. Finally, the findings provide supporting evidence that GSCM could only be translated into better economic returns through the improvement of environmental and operational performance.

Research limitations/implications

The nature of the surveyed sample and the use of a single informant might limit the ability to generalize the research findings outside the research context.

Practical implications

The research findings help managers understand that GSCM must be implemented as a holistic system and that the real benefits of its implementation extend beyond the mere environmental benefits to include operational, social as well as economic benefits.

Originality/value

The paper’s contribution to knowledge is twofold. First, the study identifies how GSCM is conceptualized and how its effect is translated into improved economic performance. Second, the research explains the contradicting findings in previous studies regarding the relationship between GSCM and economic performance.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 12000