Search results

1 – 10 of 11
Article
Publication date: 8 February 2021

Yonggui Wang, Zeng Zhang, Jianfeng Wang, Rui Sang and Weigang Zhang

A kind of the Z-6020/E-44 modified waterborne hydroxyl acrylate resin (Z-WEA) and its application in volatile organic compound-free waterborne coatings were prepared.

Abstract

Purpose

A kind of the Z-6020/E-44 modified waterborne hydroxyl acrylate resin (Z-WEA) and its application in volatile organic compound-free waterborne coatings were prepared.

Design/methodology/approach

The Z-6020/E-44 modified waterborne hydroxyl acrylate resin (Z-WEA) was obtained dropwise by adding a mixed solution of methyl methacrylate, n-butyl acrylate, hydroxyethyl methacrylate, acrylic acid and an initiator into a pre-prepared solution of isopropyl alcohol and E-44 and by semi-continuous solution polymerization, and this chain was further extended with organosiloxane (Z-6020) through graft copolymer, which was then neutralized with organic base and dispersed with water, with waterborne amino resin curing agent to form a film, and the properties were tested.

Findings

The results showed that when the dosage of initiator was 2.5% accounts for the total acrylic monomer, the hydroxyl content was 10%; the dosage of E-44 was 16%; the dosage of Z-6020 was 6%; the mass ratio of hard and soft monomer was 2.0:1; the neutralization was 100%; Z-6020/E-44 modified waterborne hydroxyl acrylate resin (Z-WEA) had excellent dispersion performance in water and storage stability; water absorption of cured film was 7.8%; pencil hardness reached 5H; adhesive force was 1 level; and the film was uniform and endowed with remarkable heat resistance, high gloss and good fullness.

Practical implications

This paper established a method to synthesize Z-6020/E-44 modified waterborne hydroxyl acrylate resin (Z-WEA) with green surfactants that can be used in the coatings, adhesives, finishing agents and so on.

Originality/value

This paper provides a method of preparing Z-6020/E-44 modified waterborne hydroxyl acrylate resin (Z-WEA) and with waterborne amino resin curing agent to form a film, and the film is uniform and endowed with remarkable heat resistance, high gloss and good fullness and meets the requirements of high-grade paint.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 50 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 January 2019

Wei Liu and Weigang Yan

The purpose of this paper is to glean a comprehensive picture of the internal governance structure in Chinese universities based on data from 40 university administrators from 33…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to glean a comprehensive picture of the internal governance structure in Chinese universities based on data from 40 university administrators from 33 Chinese institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The 40 administrators were convenience sampled while they were taking a three-month higher education leadership development program in a large public university in Canada. Permission was obtained to use the comparative discussions at different reflective research sessions as data to inform this study. The data were also progressively collected through informal interviews throughout the three months.

Findings

The study finds that the current governance model practiced in Chinese universities can be called “administrator governance,” with all members on the two major governing bodies being senior administrators appointed by and accountable for the governments. To build a “modern university system” aspired in China, the Chinese university administrators perceived a need to strengthen institutional autonomy and collegial governance with participation of the faculty and students.

Originality/value

As much of the literature has focused on the government–university relationship in China, this study aims to glean a comprehensive picture of the internal governance structure in Chinese universities.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. 11 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 June 2021

Yan Liu, Hui Ye and Hua Sun

This paper proposes a systematic method to manage students to use limited seat resources in Chinese university libraries, with the aid of mobile phone app, at the same time, its…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper proposes a systematic method to manage students to use limited seat resources in Chinese university libraries, with the aid of mobile phone app, at the same time, its use is being investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Use mixed research methods, quantitative and qualitative research. Through observation, questionnaire and interview to achieve research purpose. The survey was conducted in the library of Nanjing agricultural university.

Findings

The result shows system can offer convenient, accurate, more personalized, mobility service to each user. Actual average seat usage rate is over 51.7% in a day, most of users are satisfied with the seat management system, students' satisfaction degree are 94.8%. It is also an extension of mobile phone library service.

Originality/value

Seat management system innovate traditional people-oriented service mode of study room into smart, readers can browse usage information of seats anytime and anywhere, get what they want, service become fast and convenient. In period of COVID-19, the seat system also plays an important role, it is easy for librarians to control the number of students to enter, the trajectory of readers in the library can be tracked and the possible epidemic risk can be accurately prevented and controlled.

Details

Library Management, vol. 42 no. 6/7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-5124

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 February 2024

Li Lin-Schilstra, Yuntao Bai, Lan Lin and Changwei Mo

Understanding employees’ multi-dimensional motivations is at the core of realizing the potential of a well-designed human resource (HR) system. This study aims to investigate…

Abstract

Purpose

Understanding employees’ multi-dimensional motivations is at the core of realizing the potential of a well-designed human resource (HR) system. This study aims to investigate whether the effects of HR practices on employee motivations, and their performance would be dependent on the service orientation of HR department.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected data in two surveys: a pilot survey and a main survey with a two-wave design. The pilot survey with 93 respondents was to verify the newly developed HR service orientation scale. In the main survey, a total of 276 supervisor-subordinate pairs from 48 companies were valid for analysis.

Findings

The authors find support for their hypothesis that promotion-oriented motivation mediates the relationship between discretionary HR practices and employee outcomes [in-role performance and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB)]. Furthermore, the indirect effect of discretionary HR practices on employee outcomes is stronger when the HR service orientation is higher. Transactional HR practices, however, are not evidenced to relate to employee prevention-focused motivation and outcomes.

Practical implications

The findings illustrate a comprehensive process of HR practices on employees’ multi-dimensional motivations. High service skills of HR professionals in handling internal employees’ needs could amplify employees’ promotion-focused motives, which in turn increase their in-role performance and OCB.

Originality/value

In sum, the authors' study contributes to both human resource management (HRM) and employee motivation literature by demonstrating the different impacts of discretionary and transactional HR practices on employees’ motivations. In addition, by revealing HR service orientation as an important contingency factor, the authors shed greater light on when and how HR practices can motivate employees.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 62 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 February 2022

Robert Brenya, Isaac Akomea-Frimpong, Deborah Ofosu and David Adeabah

As global concerns for sustainability have gained traction in all sectors of every economy including agribusiness, the need to investigate the critical barriers that could hamper…

1260

Abstract

Purpose

As global concerns for sustainability have gained traction in all sectors of every economy including agribusiness, the need to investigate the critical barriers that could hamper this novelty has also risen. In that regard, this study presents a comprehensive overview of the dominant barriers encountered by agribusinesses to ensure long-term success through the lenses of a literature review.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a systematic literature review (SLR) of 43 relevant articles. The study applies content analysis to identify and analyze the selected articles. The conceptual framework underlines the three principal barriers to sustainable agribusinesses.

Findings

The results from the SLR demonstrates that inadequate financial support, excessive post-harvest loss, gender inequality, non-climate-smart policies and weak institutional controls constitute the major challenges to the sustainability of agribusinesses.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited in scope to barriers to the sustainability of agribusiness only not the broad spectrum of the concept of agriculture.

Originality/value

This study's uniqueness is twofold. First, it provides a checklist for practice with the goal of addressing problems that hamper the sustainability of agribusinesses. Second, the findings and research gaps in this study are important to support future studies.

Details

Journal of Agribusiness in Developing and Emerging Economies, vol. 13 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-0839

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 November 2018

Feifei Chen

The purpose of this paper is to examine how microblog communication enabled a new form of hybrid net-roots third-sector organization that rely heavily on the internet to achieve…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how microblog communication enabled a new form of hybrid net-roots third-sector organization that rely heavily on the internet to achieve multiple organizational successes in civil society, social movement and service providing in China, where the government holds predominating power over the third sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative inductive analysis was conducted to analyze two successful organizations’ Sina tweets sent from their Weibo debuts to the dates when they achieved their first milestone successes. In the analysis, the author iteratively alternated between emic data coding and etic reference to literature on social movement rhetoric and nonprofits’ microblog communication.

Findings

This study developed an indigenous communication framework featuring three key communication strategies: changing perceptions, mobilizing action, and building and maintaining relationships, each associated with specific tactics. These strategies and tactics allowed both organizations to tap into social media’s interactive features to engage publics and construct legitimacy.

Research limitations/implications

This paper enriches social media-based communication research and classic social movement rhetoric, and further illustrates strategic communication’s active role in reacting to and reforming institutional contexts. Findings from study might be extended to address similar problems experienced by nonprofits across countries, especially within those that operate in a context where institutional separation from a predominant government is unavailable.

Originality/value

This original communication framework developed in this study crystalizes strategic microblog use by a nascent type of nonprofit when fulfilling functions reflects civil society, social movements and traditional nonprofit organizations in an understudied political and social context.

Details

Corporate Communications: An International Journal, vol. 24 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-3289

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 August 2019

Hui Quan, Yi Chai, Rennian Li, Guo-Yi Peng and Ying Guo

Having read previous literature about vortex pump, we noticed that mechanisms of circulating flow and its relationship with energy transition remain unclear yet. However, this…

Abstract

Purpose

Having read previous literature about vortex pump, we noticed that mechanisms of circulating flow and its relationship with energy transition remain unclear yet. However, this mechanism, which should be clarified, significantly influences the pump’s efficiency. To comply with the aim of investigating it, the 150WX-200-20 type pump is selected as study object in our present work.

Design/methodology/approach

Numerical simulation is conducted to formulate interactions between flow rate and geometric parameters of circulating flow with certain types of blade while experiments on inner flow are served as a witness to provide experimental confirmation of numerical results. Based on these, we coupled some parameters with the pump’s external performance to study their internal connections.

Findings

It is concluded that separatrix between circulating flow and other turbulent forms is not that clear under low flow rate. With flow increases, hydraulic losses coming of it will be dominant within the front chamber. Besides, we analogized circulating flow to vortices so as to make a quantitative analysis on its progressive evolution with changing flow, and vortices speaking for circulating flow can be divided into two groups. One is called main circulating flow vortex (hereinafter referred to as MCFV), which occurs all the time while subsidiary circulating flow vortices (hereinafter referred to as SCFV) appear in certain conditions. This context discusses the primary phase of our work with intent to follow up further with circulating flow characterized by vortices (hereinafter referred to as CFV). We confirmed that MCFV Vortex 1 (Vor1) directly influences the efficiency while SCFVs only play helping. As the flow goes to the given working condition, fluids in this pump tend to be steady with the size of CFVs getting larger and their shape being regular. Meanwhile, for MCFV Vor2 and Vor4, their geometric parameters are the key factors for efficiency. When CFVs become steady, they absorb other vortices nearby, as they have higher viscosity with the efficiency reaching its maximum.

Originality/value

The research results explore a new way to measure the circulating flow and help work out the causation of this flow pattern, which may be used to improve the vortex pump’s efficiency.

Article
Publication date: 17 October 2008

Gang Wei and Mingzhai Geng

This paper seeks to investigate some current issues of ownership structure and corporate governance in China.

6507

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to investigate some current issues of ownership structure and corporate governance in China.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is a review, analysing issues of ownership structure and reviewing problems in corporate governance, followed by some suggestions for improvement.

Findings

It is found that the heavily concentrated equity ownership in the hands of large state‐owned shareholders mainly decides the status quo of the corporate governance system in China. In order to improve the effectiveness of corporate governance of Chinese‐listed companies, it is imperative to restructure roles of the government, restrict hands of controlling shareholders, enhance independence of the board of directors, reform the supervisory board, set up independent directors‐dominated sub‐committees and align the interests of managers with those of the shareholders.

Research limitations/implications

This paper only investigates Chinese‐listed companies because of data availability.

Practical implications

It has implications for policy makers in China insofar as it offers evidence concerning ownership structure and corporate governance of Chinese‐listed companies. It also helps investors and trading partners (especially foreign ones) understand corporate governance and the investment environment in China.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by extending the mainly US‐based board literature to China where there are important institutional differences in ownership structure and corporate governance system.

Details

Managerial Finance, vol. 34 no. 12
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0307-4358

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 December 2022

Kejia Chen, Jintao Chen, Lixi Yang and Xiaoqian Yang

Flights are often delayed owing to emergencies. This paper proposes a cooperative slot secondary assignment (CSSA) model based on a collaborative decision-making (CDM) mechanism…

Abstract

Purpose

Flights are often delayed owing to emergencies. This paper proposes a cooperative slot secondary assignment (CSSA) model based on a collaborative decision-making (CDM) mechanism, and the operation mode of flight waves designs an improved intelligent algorithm to solve the optimal flight plan and minimize the total delay of passenger time.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking passenger delays, transfer delays and flight cancellation delays into account comprehensively, the total delay time is minimized as the objective function. The model is verified by a linear solver and compared with the first come first service (FCFS) method to prove the effectiveness of the method. An improved adaptive partheno-genetic algorithm (IAPGA) using hierarchical serial number coding was designed, combining elite and roulette strategies to find pareto solutions.

Findings

Comparing and analyzing the experimental results of various scale examples, the optimization model in this paper is greatly optimized compared to the FCFS method in terms of total delay time, and the IAPGA algorithm is better than the algorithm before in terms of solution performance and solution set quality.

Originality/value

Based on the actual situation, this paper considers the operation mode of flight waves. In addition, the flight plan solved by the model can be guaranteed in terms of feasibility and effectiveness, which can provide airlines with reasonable decision-making opinions when reassigning slot resources.

Details

International Journal of Intelligent Computing and Cybernetics, vol. 16 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-378X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 October 2023

Pulkit Tiwari

The objective of this research work is to design a data-based solution for administering traffic organization in a smart city by using the machine learning algorithm.

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of this research work is to design a data-based solution for administering traffic organization in a smart city by using the machine learning algorithm.

Design/methodology/approach

A machine learning framework for managing traffic infrastructure and air pollution in urban centers relies on a predictive analytics model. The model makes use of transportation data to predict traffic patterns based on the information gathered from numerous sources within the city. It can be promoted for strategic planning determination. The data features volume and calendar variables, including hours of the day, week and month. These variables are leveraged to identify time series-based seasonal patterns in the data. To achieve accurate traffic volume forecasting, the long short-term memory (LSTM) method is recommended.

Findings

The study has produced a model that is appropriate for the transportation sector in the city and other innovative urban applications. The findings indicate that the implementation of smart transportation systems enhances transportation and has a positive impact on air quality. The study's results are explored and connected to practical applications in the areas of air pollution control and smart transportation.

Originality/value

The present paper has created the machine learning framework for the transportation sector of smart cities that achieves a reasonable level of accuracy. Additionally, the paper examines the effects of smart transportation on both the environment and supply chain.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 35 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

1 – 10 of 11