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1 – 10 of 295
Article
Publication date: 16 April 2024

Feng-Hua Yang, Chen-Chieh Chang and Zhao-Cheng Pan

This study aims to apply the affective events theory and psychological contract theory to investigate how job satisfaction and psychological safety mediate the effect of the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to apply the affective events theory and psychological contract theory to investigate how job satisfaction and psychological safety mediate the effect of the behavioral integrity of supervisors on the organizational commitment of employees.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was conducted using purposive sampling. In total, 500 questionnaire copies were distributed, and 453 responses were collected, of which 441 were valid (valid response rate = 88.2%).

Findings

The behavioral integrity of supervisors has a direct negative effect on organizational commitment but significant positive effects on job satisfaction and psychological safety, and job satisfaction and psychological safety have significant positive effects on organizational commitment. Job satisfaction and psychological safety have significant mediating effects on the association between the behavioral integrity of supervisors and the organizational commitment of employees.

Practical implications

Leaders and top management should “practice what they preach,” integrate honesty into organizational culture through training and establish a code of conduct to ensure that employees uphold their commitments. Companies should establish appropriate disciplinary systems and norms related to work and other aspects of organizational culture; they should also establish fair, just and open assessment systems to minimize the gap between their employees’ actual and expected earnings.

Originality/value

This study is the first to simultaneously consider the mediating effects of job satisfaction and psychological safety on the association between behavioral integrity and organizational commitment.

Details

Management Research Review, vol. 47 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-8269

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 June 2024

Yijing Xun, Xiabing Zheng, Matthew K.O. Lee and Feng Yang

The health and survival of massively multiplayer online games (MMOGs) are of paramount concern to stakeholders. It is essential to understand the usage behaviors of exploitative…

44

Abstract

Purpose

The health and survival of massively multiplayer online games (MMOGs) are of paramount concern to stakeholders. It is essential to understand the usage behaviors of exploitative and exploratory strategies. By combining the typical user experience with psychological mechanisms in MMOGs, this study is devoted to clarifying how technology affordance and digital perfectionistic intention influence reinforcement and variety-seeking orientations of MMOGs use.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a sequential triangulation mixed-methods design to explore how diverse usage behaviors of reinforced and varied use in MMOGs are formed. After proposing the theoretical framework from MMOGs affordance, perfectionistic intentions, and diverse use, empirical evidence was initially collected from representative samples through a survey. Qualitative interviews from players in MMOGs and game industry practitioners are conducted to confirm the results, supplement understanding, and gather insights from diverse backgrounds. The quantitative and qualitative inferences are discussed to validate the research focus.

Findings

Findings from various perspectives suggest that perfectionistic intentions are critical antecedents of different usage behaviors influenced by affordances provided in MMOGs. Goal-driven affordance with reward and competition, interaction affordance, and identity affordance are key MMOGs affordances and could affect perfectionistic intentions differently. People with different perfectionistic intentions, which are the psychological outcome of MMOGs affordances, possess diverse usage behaviors.

Originality/value

This study is the first to consider diverse usage behaviors in virtual worlds such as MMOGs by combining lenses of perfectionistic intentions and technology affordance. Findings from mixed-methods analysis significantly enrich the research on online game usage behavior, offering valuable theoretical and practical implications for studying usage behaviors within the virtual world.

Details

Information Technology & People, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-3845

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 February 2024

Feng Yang, Jingyi Peng and Zihao Zhang

This paper aims to explore the promotion decisions of heterogeneous sellers on a decentralized platform under competitive conditions and analyze how seller behaviors impact…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the promotion decisions of heterogeneous sellers on a decentralized platform under competitive conditions and analyze how seller behaviors impact platform profit, seller revenue, buyer surplus and social welfare.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper considers a Cournot model consisting of a platform charging a commission rate and two sellers with different conversion rates and browsing costs. Promotion efforts by sellers can increase traffic, but they also incur promotion costs for sellers. The sellers decide on promotion effort by weighing these two effects. The authors also explore the equilibrium when the platform charges a fixed usage fee.

Findings

The seller’s profit improves as its conversion rate increases and worsens as browsing costs increase. Also, increasing the commission rate charged by the platform makes the seller invest less in promotional efforts. Therefore, the platform must consider this trade-off to determine an optimal rate. The analysis shows that the seller with a high conversion rate and high browsing cost plays a greater role in generating more overall revenue. When the market favors such a seller, the platform tends to charge less in order not to impair its profitability.

Originality/value

This paper incorporates conversion rate, buyer’s browsing cost, unit promotion cost and the fee charged by the platform into the model to study sellers’ promotion decisions on decentralized platforms.

Details

Journal of Modelling in Management, vol. 19 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-5664

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 May 2024

Feng Zhou, S. S. Lu, B. Jiang and R.G. Song

This study aims to study the formation mechanism of micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coating on AZ31 magnesium alloy and how the annealing process affects its corrosion resistance.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to study the formation mechanism of micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coating on AZ31 magnesium alloy and how the annealing process affects its corrosion resistance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study involved immersion experiments, electrochemical experiments and slow strain rate tensile experiments, along with scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy observation and X-ray diffraction analysis.

Findings

The findings suggest that annealing treatment can refine the grain size of AZ31 magnesium alloy to an average of 6.9 µm at 300°C. The change in grain size leads to a change in conductivity, which affects the performance of MAO coatings. The MAO coating obtained by annealing the substrate at 300°C has smaller pores and porosity, resulting in better adhesion and wear resistance.

Originality/value

The coating acts as a barrier to prevent corrosive substances from entering the substrate. However, the smaller pores and porosity reduce the channels for the corrosive solution to pass through the coating. When the coating cracks or falls off, the corrosive medium and substrate come into direct contact. Smaller and uniform grains have better corrosion resistance.

Details

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, vol. 71 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0003-5599

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 January 2024

Lijuan Qu and Yuwen Dai

Higher education institutions have a critical role in creating and disseminating the knowledge required to address the complex global challenges faced by global society, as…

Abstract

Purpose

Higher education institutions have a critical role in creating and disseminating the knowledge required to address the complex global challenges faced by global society, as summarized in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This role of higher education is linked with the concept of internationalization, which has recently been called upon to help contribute to tackle the global challenges and meet the SDGs, particularly through more attention to “Internationalization at Home” (IaH). This paper aims to examine the role of higher education in addressing the SDGs, especially with respect to the links between IaH and the SDGs.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study of the International Campus of Zhejiang University (iZJU) is conducted to illustrate how iZJU, which is a pioneer of “Internationalization at Home” and an exemplar of sustainable campus in China, contributes to the value of the SDGs and makes an impact.

Findings

The authors examine the practice of IaH at iZJU in the dimensions of organization, curriculum, people and campus, and the authors find evidence from the iZJU model in addressing the value of the SDG4, 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17.

Originality/value

First, the authors contribute to the literature on the role of higher education in addressing the SDGs, especially with respect to the links between IaH and the SDGs. Second, the authors contribute to the IaH literature by examining IaH from a Chinese perspective, as there has been little exploration of what IaH means beyond the European context. Third, the authors build on the analytical framework in the IaH literature in the dimensions of organization, curriculum and people and extend with a new dimension of campus. Fourth, the authors show that IaH is a comprehensive approach to include both curriculum internationalization and campus internationalization.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 25 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 February 2024

Guizhi Lyu, Peng Wang, Guohong Li, Feng Lu and Shenglong Dai

The purpose of this paper is to present a wall-climbing robot platform for heavy-load with negative pressure adsorption, which could be equipped with a six-degree of freedom (DOF…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a wall-climbing robot platform for heavy-load with negative pressure adsorption, which could be equipped with a six-degree of freedom (DOF) collaborative robot (Cobot) and detection device for inspecting the overwater part of concrete bridge towers/piers for large bridges.

Design/methodology/approach

By analyzing the shortcomings of existing wall-climbing robots in detecting concrete structures, a wall-climbing mobile manipulator (WCMM), which could be compatible with various detection devices, is proposed for detecting the concrete towers/piers of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. The factors affecting the load capacity are obtained by analyzing the antislip and antioverturning conditions of the wall-climbing robot platform on the wall surface. Design strategies for each part of the structure of the wall-climbing robot are provided based on the influencing factors. By deriving the equivalent adsorption force equation, analyzed the influencing factors of equivalent adsorption force and provided schemes that could enhance the load capacity of the wall-climbing robot.

Findings

The adsorption test verifies the maximum negative pressure that the fan module could provide to the adsorption chamber. The load capacity test verifies it is feasible to achieve the expected bearing requirements of the wall-climbing robot. The motion tests prove that the developed climbing robot vehicle could move freely on the surface of the concrete structure after being equipped with a six-DOF Cobot.

Practical implications

The development of the heavy-load wall-climbing robot enables the Cobot to be installed and equipped on the wall-climbing robot, forming the WCMM, making them compatible with carrying various devices and expanding the application of the wall-climbing robot.

Originality/value

A heavy-load wall-climbing robot using negative pressure adsorption has been developed. The wall-climbing robot platform could carry a six-DOF Cobot, making it compatible with various detection devices for the inspection of concrete structures of large bridges. The WCMM could be expanded to detect the concretes with similar structures. The research and development process of the heavy-load wall-climbing robot could inspire the design of other negative-pressure wall-climbing robots.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 51 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 12 July 2024

Salvatore Monaco

The chapter contains an in-depth analysis of contemporary risks confronting terrestrial ecosystems and examines prominent strategies for biodiversity preservation, sustainable…

Abstract

The chapter contains an in-depth analysis of contemporary risks confronting terrestrial ecosystems and examines prominent strategies for biodiversity preservation, sustainable tourism, and ecological management. Agroforestry parks and ecological corridors emerge as central mechanisms for safeguarding biodiversity and enhancing habitat connectivity. The chapter delves also into the urgent task of combating desertification, exacerbated by climate change and unsustainable practices, with a particular emphasis on the challenges inherent in the realm of tourism. Within the context of tourism, the chapter identifies nature and adventure tourism as catalysts for fostering biodiversity conservation through emotive engagement, thereby stimulating visitor support for conservation policies. The imperative of sustainable tourism practices, underscored by a dedicated commitment to attenuating adverse impacts while optimizing positive outcomes, assumes paramount importance in this pursuit. The chapter underscores the strategic significance of managing visitor influxes, exemplified by techniques such as access limitations and temporal restrictions, as a key approach to mitigate issues of overcrowding and ecological deterioration.

Details

Identity, Territories, and Sustainability: Challenges and Opportunities for Achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83797-549-5

Article
Publication date: 25 June 2024

Kuo Yang, Yanqiu Xia, Wenhao Chen and Yi Zhang

The purpose of this study was to synthesize composite nanoparticles (TiO2@SiO2) via the chemical deposition method and investigate their efficacy as additives in…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to synthesize composite nanoparticles (TiO2@SiO2) via the chemical deposition method and investigate their efficacy as additives in polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) lubricating grease. The focus was on examining the frictional and conductive properties of the TiO2@SiO2 grease using a friction tester.

Design/methodology/approach

Composite nanoparticles (TiO2@SiO2) were synthesized using the chemical deposition method and incorporated into PTFE grease. Frictional and conductive properties were evaluated using a friction tester. Surface morphology and chemical composition of wear tracks were analyzed using scanning electron microscope and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively.

Findings

Incorporating TiO2@SiO2 at a mass fraction of 1 Wt.% led to a significant reduction in friction coefficient and wear width. The wear depth exhibited a remarkable decrease of 260%, while the contact resistance reached its peak value. This improvement in tribological properties could be attributed to the presence of TiO2@SiO2, where TiO2 served as the core and SiO2 as the shell during the friction process. The high hardness of the SiO2 shell contributed to enhanced load-bearing capacity. In addition, the exceptional insulation properties of SiO2 demonstrated excellent electron-capturing capabilities, resulting in improved friction and insulation performance of the TiO2@SiO2 lubricating grease.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates the potential of TiO2@SiO2 composite nanoparticles as additives in lubricating greases, offering improved friction and insulation performance. The findings provide insights into the design of advanced lubricating materials with enhanced tribological properties and insulation capacity, contributing to the development of more efficient and durable lubrication systems.

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 May 2024

Karel Dvorak, Lucie Zarybnicka, Radek Ševčík, Michal Vopalensky and Irena Adamkova

The purpose of this paper is to clarify the relationship between the use of different polymer matrices for the preparation of composite materials, namely, polyethylene…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to clarify the relationship between the use of different polymer matrices for the preparation of composite materials, namely, polyethylene terephthalate-glycol (PET-G) and polyamide (PA), using Composite Fiber Co-Extrusion technology with the application of two types of carbon fibers, short and continuous. The aim of the study is also to extend the knowledge of the production of composite materials with a defined structure from the point of view of their influence on the microstructure and their physical-mechanical properties.

Design/methodology/approach

As part of the experiment, four types of samples were prepared, namely, two types of samples with PA polymer matrix and two types with PET-G polymer matrix. All types contained short carbon fibers and always one set from each polymer matrix in addition to continuous carbon fibers. All types were prepared using the same 3D printing parameters to avoid any further influence. The samples were then tested for microstructure using microCT, mechanical properties using a tensile test and dilatation characteristics from the point of view of aerospace applications. Finally, the raw materials themselves were tested.

Findings

The paper provides insight into the influence of polymer matrix types on the physico-mechanical properties of 3D printed composites. The analysis confirmed that the physico-mechanical results varied with respect to the interface between the polymer matrix and the carbon fiber. The implications of the conclusions can be extended to the development of products in the aerospace and automotive sectors.

Originality/value

This study provides information for composite applications in the aerospace industry, focusing on evaluating dilatation characteristics within very low temperatures (−60 °C) when using carbon fibers (continuous carbon fibers, short carbon fibers and a combination of both) in two types of thermoplastic matrices. This perspective on materials characterisation for aerospace applications is a very important and unpublished approach within the 3D printing of composites. These characteristics are important parameters in the design of prototypes and functional samples with regard to the resulting behaviour in real conditions.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 30 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 19 December 2023

Ruxin Zhang, Jun Lin, Suicheng Li and Ying Cai

This study aims to explore how to overcome and address the loss of exploratory innovation, thereby achieving greater success in exploratory innovation. This phenomenon of loss…

1482

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore how to overcome and address the loss of exploratory innovation, thereby achieving greater success in exploratory innovation. This phenomenon of loss occurs when enterprises decrease their investment in and engagement with exploratory innovation, ultimately leading to an insufficient amount of such innovation efforts. Drawing on dynamic capabilities, this study investigates the relationship between organizational foresight and exploratory innovation and examines the moderating role of breakthrough orientation/financial orientation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used survey data collected from 296 Chinese high-tech companies in multiple industries and sectors.

Findings

The evidence produced by this study reveals that three elements of organizational foresight (i.e. environmental scanning capabilities, strategic selection capabilities and integrating capabilities) positively influence exploratory innovation. Furthermore, this positive effect is strengthened in the context of a high-breakthrough orientation. Moreover, the relationships among environmental scanning capabilities, strategic selection capabilities and exploratory innovation become weaker as an enterprise’s financial orientation increases, whereas a strong financial orientation does not affect the relationship between integrating capabilities and exploratory innovation.

Research limitations/implications

Ambidexterity is key to successful enterprise innovation. Compared with exploitative innovation, it is by no means easy to engage in exploratory innovation, which is especially important in high-tech companies. While the loss of exploratory innovation has been observed, few empirical studies have explored ways to promote exploratory innovation more effectively. A key research implication of this study pertains to the role of organizational foresight in the improvement of exploratory innovation in the context of high-tech companies.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the broader literature on exploratory innovation and organizational foresight and provides practical guidance for high-tech companies regarding ways of avoiding the loss of exploratory innovation and becoming more successful at exploratory innovation.

Details

Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, vol. 39 no. 13
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0885-8624

Keywords

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