Guodong Ni, Yaqi Fang, Xinyue Miao, Yaning Qiao, Wenshun Wang and Jian Xuan
This study aims to provide a new perspective and path to reduce the unsafe behavior of new generation of construction workers (NGCWs) in China. The purpose of this study is to…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to provide a new perspective and path to reduce the unsafe behavior of new generation of construction workers (NGCWs) in China. The purpose of this study is to explore the influencing mechanism of work-family balance on the unsafe behavior of NGCWs and test the mediating effect of job satisfaction and the moderating effect of group safety climate.
Design/methodology/approach
A theoretical model on the influencing mechanism of work-family balance on unsafe behavior of NGCWs was constructed through theoretical analysis. Research data were collected from 502 NGCWs via a questionnaire survey, and research hypotheses were testified with regression analysis.
Findings
The results show that work-family balance not only directly reduces NGCWs’ unsafe behavior but also indirectly reduces it through job satisfaction, which plays a partial mediating role. In addition to positively moderating the relationship between work-family balance and NGCWs’ unsafe behavior, group safety climate can also moderate the relationship between work-family balance and job satisfaction in a positive way.
Practical implications
This study provides practical implications for construction companies to reduce the unsafe behaviors of NGCWs from the perspective of work-family balance. Specifically, construction companies should adopt more flexible work rules, such as flexible organization and rotation systems, to increase their work autonomy. Meanwhile, construction companies need to improve the work environment and basic conditions for NGCWs, establish a reasonable salary system and provide attractive promotion opportunities to increase their job satisfaction. In addition, construction companies should provide active safety lectures and training, and supervisors should improve safety communication and interaction levels. Co-workers should remind workers about their safety attitudes and behaviors promptly. A good group safety climate will be created through the efforts of construction companies, supervisors and co-workers.
Originality/value
This study clarifies the influencing mechanism of work-family balance on the NGCWs’ unsafe behavior and further tests the partial mediating role of job satisfaction and the positively moderating effect of group safety climate on the influence relationship of work-family balance on job satisfaction and NGCWs’ unsafe behavior, which defines the boundary conditions of the relationship between work-family balance and NGCWs’ unsafe behavior, and promotes the effective integration of social exchange theory and theoretical system of influencing mechanism of construction workers’ unsafe behavior.
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Vishal Shukla, Sanjeev Prashar and M. Ramkumar
This study seeks to investigate the ability of blockchain technology (BCT) to increase circular economy (CE) practices in the electronics industry, emphasising India and Taiwan.
Abstract
Purpose
This study seeks to investigate the ability of blockchain technology (BCT) to increase circular economy (CE) practices in the electronics industry, emphasising India and Taiwan.
Design/methodology/approach
The study adopts a mixed-methods approach. Initial qualitative semi-structured interviews examined how BCT could inform CE practice. The qualitative aspects were followed by the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches, and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), to analyse data from 391 industry experts surveyed.
Findings
The results show that the BCT has great potential to promote CE processes by improving the aspects of security, transparency and traceability. BCT adoption is driven by a conducive regulatory regime, stakeholder collaboration, and the availability of required technology.
Research limitations/implications
By identifying key drivers and requisite requirements for successful BCT adoption in CE practices, this research offers critical guidance for policymakers, practitioners and researchers. It adds to the wider conversation about how emerging technologies can support sustainability and efficiency in industry.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the literature by providing a new lens to study BCT and CE practices intersectionality, particularly in the context of the emerging electronics industry and in countries such as India and Taiwan. Unlike previous research that studied either BCT or CE independently, this study uniquely illustrates how the principles underpinning these concepts, when implemented together, can positively impact sustainability outcomes within a resource-intensive industry notorious for generating highly significant waste streams.
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Lianfeng Shen, Jinhua Sun, Lei Miao, Haiping Gu, Shuzhen Qiao, Lei Wang and Wei Wei
The application of galvanized steel is widespread across industries due to its protective zinc coating that protects against atmospheric corrosion. However, previous studies have…
Abstract
Purpose
The application of galvanized steel is widespread across industries due to its protective zinc coating that protects against atmospheric corrosion. However, previous studies have primarily focused on long-term corrosion rates rather than the full-scale corrosion behavior of the zinc. This paper aims to study the full-scale corrosion evolution of galvanic steel under simulated marine atmospheric environment using real-time EIS measurement.
Design/methodology/approach
Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) provides an advanced method in monitoring such behavior. Therefore, the EIS method has been used to conduct a comprehensive investigation on the corrosion behavior of galvanic steel in a full-time manner.
Findings
The results indicate that the corrosion process of galvanic steel can be divided into three stages: an initial stage with an increased corrosion rate, a subsequent stage with a reduced corrosion rate, and finally a third stage with the lowest and constant corrosion rate. The evolution of corrosion resistance is closely related to changes in composition and structure of the patina layer. In the initial stage, galvanized steel undergoes the formation of soluble ZnCl2 and needle-like Zn5(OH)8Cl2·H2O, which promotes the generation and maintenance of an electrolyte layer, consequently leading to an increase in corrosion rate. With prolonged corrosion time, there is a continuous accumulation of Zn5(OH)8Cl2·H2O within the patina layer, which reduces the content of soluble components and promotes the development of a denser inner layer, thus enhancing corrosion resistance.
Originality/value
This work holds significance in the monitoring of corrosion, understanding the evolution of corrosion and predicting the lifespan of galvanized steel.
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Pedro Nascimento, Tiago Oliveira and Joana Neves
In the 21st century, excessive use of hedonic information systems (HIS) has become commonplace, making HIS use reduction a more viable option for many users than complete…
Abstract
Purpose
In the 21st century, excessive use of hedonic information systems (HIS) has become commonplace, making HIS use reduction a more viable option for many users than complete discontinuation. Even so, there is no systematic revision on this matter. This systematic literature review aims to examine previous studies on HIS use reduction, identify their limitations and point out future research directions.
Design/methodology/approach
We adhered to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, ultimately analyzing 52 papers published between 2010 and 2024, with the majority disseminated after 2021.
Findings
The primary findings indicate a gradual shift from focusing on internet research to exploring social networking sites, with consistent attention on gaming and mobile device usage. Moreover, there is notable diversity in the theoretical foundations of scholarly research in this area as well as in the antecedents, consequences and control factors. Additionally, factors such as awareness, social norms, fatigue, privacy concerns and self-efficacy play the most significant roles in reducing the use of HIS. Finally, this article identifies gaps and opportunities in the field and employs science mapping to uncover the four predominant themes that form the basis of this research domain.
Originality/value
As far as we know, this article marks the inaugural comprehensive systematic review of current research on reducing HIS use, intending to make a dual impact. Initially, the authors meticulously outline HIS use reduction systematically and thoroughly, offering theoretical insights. Second, they delve into potential research areas and contributions concerning this phenomenon to address the gap in understanding the effects of reducing HIS usage on individuals.
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Ana Junça Silva and Sergio López
This study uses a job-demand resource perspective to test a conceptual model in which psychological contract breach has a negative relation with job performance (adaptivity and…
Abstract
Purpose
This study uses a job-demand resource perspective to test a conceptual model in which psychological contract breach has a negative relation with job performance (adaptivity and proficiency) through perceived job insecurity. Further, it has also been proposed that higher levels of role conflict will strengthen the impact of psychological contract breaches on job performance through job insecurity.
Design/methodology/approach
Two-wave data were collected from 449 working adults from the retail sector with managerial occupations in Chile. The moderated mediation models were tested through SPSS macro (developed by Preacher and Hayes, 2004).
Findings
The findings supported the hypotheses; first, psychological contract breach negatively influences job performance through job insecurity; and second, role conflict moderates the indirect relationship in a way that lower levels of role conflict buffer the relationship between psychological contract breach and job performance through job insecurity (versus higher levels of role conflict).
Originality/value
This study has practical and theoretical implications. On the one hand, it establishes how and when psychological contract breaches might harm individual job performance. On the other hand, it can be a guide to managers and employees who can find evidence about how harmful a breach of employees’ psychological contract can be.
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Jianlei Han, Stewart Jones, Zini Liang, Zheyao Pan and Jing Shi
This paper examines the evolving landscape of accounting and finance research on the Chinese capital market, building on a previous study published at Abacus in 2018.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper examines the evolving landscape of accounting and finance research on the Chinese capital market, building on a previous study published at Abacus in 2018.
Design/methodology/approach
By incorporating data from 1999 to 2023, our analysis offers a detailed examination of shifts in academic focus, methodological advancements and thematic expansions over the last quarter-century.
Findings
The study reveals a substantial increase in accounting and finance publications related to the Chinese capital market in both Tier 1 and Asia-Pacific journals. The dynamic growth of the Chinese capital market during this period reflects profound economic transformations, characterized by technological innovations, sustainability commitments and regulatory reforms.
Originality/value
We conclude that the globally important Chinese capital market has attracted increasing academic attention, significantly advancing the understanding of accounting and finance research in China’s capital market.
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Libiao Bai, Shiyi Liu, Yuqin An and Qi Xie
Project portfolio benefit (PPB) evaluation is crucial for project portfolio management decisions. However, PPB is complex in composition and affected by synergy and ambidexterity…
Abstract
Purpose
Project portfolio benefit (PPB) evaluation is crucial for project portfolio management decisions. However, PPB is complex in composition and affected by synergy and ambidexterity. Ignoring these characteristics can result in inaccurate assessments, impeding the management and optimization of benefit. Considering the above complexity of PPB evaluation, this study aims to propose a refined PPB evaluation model to provide decision support for organizations.
Design/methodology/approach
A back propagation neural network optimized via genetic algorithm and pruning algorithm (P-GA-BPNN) is constructed for PPB evaluation. First, the benefit evaluation criteria are established. Second, the inputs and expected outputs for model training and testing are determined. Then, based on the optimization of BPNN via genetic algorithm and pruning algorithm, a PPB evaluation model is constructed considering the impacts of ambidexterity and synergy on PPB. Finally, a numerical example was applied to validate the model.
Findings
The results indicate that the proposed model can be used for effective PPB evaluation. Moreover, it shows superiority in terms of MSE and fitting effect through extensive comparative experiments with BPNN, GA-BPNN, and SVM models. The robustness of the model is also demonstrated via data random disturbance experiment and 10-cross-validation. Therefore, the proposed model could serve as a valuable decision-making tool for PPB management.
Originality/value
This study extends prior research by integrating the impacts of synergy and ambidexterity on PPB when conducting PPB evaluation, which facilitates to manage and enhance PPB. Besides, the structural redundancy of existing assessment methods is solved through the dynamic optimization of the network structure via the pruning algorithm, enhancing the effectiveness of PPB decision-making tools.
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Sudev Dutta, Sudhanshu Dogra and Sumit Sharma
The demand of species monitoring for the benefit of various sectors such as industrial, medicinal and ecological has surged rapidly in the recent past. Therefore, the purpose of…
Abstract
Purpose
The demand of species monitoring for the benefit of various sectors such as industrial, medicinal and ecological has surged rapidly in the recent past. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to articulate the major developments in synthesizing conductive inks for the structurization of miniaturized as well as disposable or reusable electrochemical equipments.
Design/methodology/approach
This section is not applicable to a review paper.
Findings
Numerous times the need for the use point becomes significant for achieving accurate as well as swift quantification. As an alternate, the wearable and effectual reuseable electrochemical sensors are being practiced. The technique of fabricating devices using conductive inks encompasses novelty, as it provides flexibility in designing the electrodes. The increase in the popularity of inks development is governed by its features of simplicity, reduced cost and waste generation, high production and eco-friendly engineering procedures. Further, the electrochemistry aspects of conductive inks highlighting the importance of their compounds and binders has also been discussed emphasizing on the conductive materials.
Originality/value
This paper is an original review work. This paper will be helpful for manufacturers/researchers from smart wearable textile sector in envisaging innovative developing techniques of sensors as well as biosensors through conductive inks.
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The objective is to address financing challenges with an innovative technical approach and provide financial support to facilitate the sustainable development of characteristic…
Abstract
Purpose
The objective is to address financing challenges with an innovative technical approach and provide financial support to facilitate the sustainable development of characteristic tourist towns.
Design/methodology/approach
In this study, a novel decision model is proposed, which utilizes the CRITIC improved G1 weighting method to analyze financing factors and applies GRA to enhance the TOPSIS model under a Z-Number fuzzy environment. Finally, sensitivity analysis and comparative assessment were conducted to validate the findings and the model.
Findings
The findings indicate that equity financing is the optimal mode of financing for characteristic tourist towns, with bond financing serving as a viable alternative. Key factors influencing financing include economic benefit, social benefit and policy risk. Managers should carefully consider these factors when selecting financing methods in order to enhance efficiency and mitigate risks.
Originality/value
As a new business model and value creation method of cultural and tourism integration, the financing decision of a characteristic tourism town has always been the key to the overall promotion and operation. The research constructs a financing index system for characteristic tourism towns based on benefit and risk considerations, using the hot spring town in Anhui Province, China, as a case study to evaluate eight financing models.
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Saeed Reza Mohandes, Atul Kumar Singh, Abdulwahed Fazeli, Saeed Banihashemi, Mehrdad Arashpour, Clara Cheung, Obuks Ejohwomu and Tarek Zayed
Previous research has demonstrated that Digital Twins (DT) are extensively employed to improve sustainable construction methods. Nonetheless, their uptake in numerous nations is…
Abstract
Purpose
Previous research has demonstrated that Digital Twins (DT) are extensively employed to improve sustainable construction methods. Nonetheless, their uptake in numerous nations is still constrained. This study seeks to identify and examine the digital twin’s implementation barriers in construction building projects to augment operational performance and sustainability.
Design/methodology/approach
An iterative two-stage approach was adopted to explore the phenomena under investigation. General DT Implementation Barriers were first identified from extant literature and subsequently explored using primary questionnaire survey data from Hong Kong building industry professionals.
Findings
Survey results illustrated that Lack of methodologies and tools, Difficulty in ensuring a high level of performance in real-time communication, Impossibility of directly measuring all data relevant to the DT, need to share the DT among multiple application systems involving multiple stakeholders and Uncertainties in the quality and reliability of data are the main barriers for adopting digital twins' technology. Moreover, Ginni’s mean difference measure of dispersion showed that the stationary digital twin’s barriers adoption is needed to share the DT among multiple application systems involving multiple stakeholders.
Practical implications
The study’s findings offer valuable guidance to the construction industry. They help stakeholders adopt digital twins' technology, which, in turn, improves cost efficiency and sustainability. This adoption reduces project expenses and enhances environmental responsibility, providing companies a competitive edge in the industry.
Originality/value
This research rigorously explores barriers to Digital Twin (DT) implementation in the Hong Kong construction industry, employing a systematic approach that includes a comprehensive literature review, Ranking Analysis (RII) and Ginni’s coefficient of mean difference (GM). With a tailored focus on Hong Kong, the study aims to identify, analyze and provide novel insights into DT implementation challenges. Emphasizing practical relevance, the research bridges the gap between academic understanding and real-world application, offering actionable solutions for industry professionals, policymakers and researchers. This multifaceted contribution enhances the feasibility and success of DT implementation in construction projects within the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector.