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Article
Publication date: 4 March 2025

Wenping Xu, Xinru Guo, David G. Proverbs and Pan Han

Flooding is China’s most frequent and catastrophic natural hazard, causing extensive damage. The aim of this study is to develop a comprehensive assessment of urban flood risk in…

Abstract

Purpose

Flooding is China’s most frequent and catastrophic natural hazard, causing extensive damage. The aim of this study is to develop a comprehensive assessment of urban flood risk in the Hubei Province of China, focusing on the following three issues: (1) What are the factors that cause floods? (2) To what extent do these factors affect flood risk management? (3) How to build an effective comprehensive assessment system that can be used to reduce flood risk?

Design/methodology/approach

This study combines expert opinion and evidence from the extent literature to identify flood risk indicators across four dimensions: disaster risk, susceptibility, exposure and prevention and mitigation. The Criteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation (CRITIC) and the Grey Relational Analysis (RA)-based Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) decision-making approach were applied to calculate the weighting of factors and develop a model of urban flood risk. Then, ArcGIS software visualizes risk levels and spatial distribution in the cities of Hubei Province; uncertainty analysis verified method accuracy.

Findings

The results show that there are significant differences in the level of urban flood risk in Hubei Province, with cities such as Tianmen, Qianjiang, Xiantao and Ezhou being at high risk, while cities such as Shiyan, Xiangyang, Shennongjia, Yichang, Wuhan and Huanggang are at lower flood risk.

Originality/value

The innovative method of combining CRITIC-GRA-TOPSIS reduces the presence of subjective bias found in many other flood risk assessment frameworks. Regional data extraction and uncertainty analysis enhance result reliability, supporting long-term decision-making and urban planning. Overall, the methodological approach developed provides an advanced, highly effective and efficient analysis and visualization of flood risk. This study deepens the understanding of flood risk assessment mechanisms and more broadly supports the development of resilient cities.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 April 2024

Chunli Liu and Jing Cheng

This study aims to investigate the impact of board skill diversity (BSD) on corporate environmental responsibility (CER). In addition, this study explores the moderating effects…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of board skill diversity (BSD) on corporate environmental responsibility (CER). In addition, this study explores the moderating effects of formal regulatory pressure and informal media pressure.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses Chinese high polluting companies as the sample and uses regression analysis. Robustness checks, including instrumental variable regression, Heckman two-stage model and propensity score matching method, are performed to test the robustness of the results.

Findings

The findings suggest that BSD significantly improves CER performance. Both formal regulatory pressure and informal media pressure strengthen the positive impact of BSD on CER. Further channel analyses reveal that BSD improves CER performance by promoting corporate proenvironmental behaviors rather than by restricting environmental violations; skill diversity of executive directors has a more significant effect on CER than that of independent directors. Finally, the moderating effect of regulatory pressure is only significant after the implementation of the Environmental Protection Law, and the moderating effect of media pressure mainly concentrates on negative media coverage.

Practical implications

The involvement of directors with more diverse skills is essential to improve corporate proenvironmental behaviors. Companies should select qualified directors with different skills to further improve their performance on environmental protection and sustainable development.

Social implications

Regulators and standard-setters should develop efficient guidelines on corporate board governance to enhance the positive role of companies in environmental and sustainable development.

Originality/value

This study broadens the research on the determinants of CER by examining the influence of BSD on CER and the moderating roles of various stakeholder pressures, thereby providing a deeper understanding of corporate environmental performance and sustainable development.

Details

Sustainability Accounting, Management and Policy Journal, vol. 16 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-8021

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 December 2024

Xingmao Shao, Lun Xie, Weiqiang Li and Chenjun Liu

This study aims to propose a virtual fixture (VF) – assisted robot teleoperation framework that modulates the generated trajectory from demonstrations to response varying…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to propose a virtual fixture (VF) – assisted robot teleoperation framework that modulates the generated trajectory from demonstrations to response varying obstacles in complex environment.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a single trajectory is learned from demonstration using dynamic movement primitives (DMP). Then, the classic DMP is improved by integrating adaptive terms and updating the radial basis function kernel weights, allowing the single-skill trajectory to alter to respond to obstacles dynamically. Finally, composite virtual forces are generated on the haptic device to enhance operational stability and prevents unintentional operations that could bring the robot into close proximity with obstacles.

Findings

The VF method can accomplish online obstacle avoidance and operation guidance. The experimental results show that the operation trajectory based on VFs is smoother compared to the operation without assistance. Moreover, the operational speed has increased by up to 44.37% compared to the demonstrations.

Originality/value

The proposed composite VF-based protection framework solves the problem that classical DMP method cannot dynamically avoid obstacles, and effectively improves the operational safety and efficiency.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 February 2024

Jiang Jiang, Eldon Y. Li and Li Tang

Trust plays a crucial role in overcoming uncertainty and reducing risks. Uncovering the trust mechanism in the sharing economy may enable sharing platforms to design more…

Abstract

Purpose

Trust plays a crucial role in overcoming uncertainty and reducing risks. Uncovering the trust mechanism in the sharing economy may enable sharing platforms to design more effective marketing strategies. However, existing studies have inconsistent conclusions on the trust mechanism in the sharing economy. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the antecedents and consequences of different dimensions of trust (trust in platform and trust in peers) in the sharing economy.

Design/methodology/approach

First, we conducted a meta-analysis of 57 related articles. We tested 13 antecedents of trust in platform (e.g. economic benefits, enjoyment, and information quality) and eight antecedents of trust in peers (e.g. offline service quality and providers’ reputation), as well as their consequences. Then, we conducted subgroup analyses to test the moderating effects of economic development level (Developed vs Developing), gender (Female-dominant vs Male-dominant), platform type (Accommodation vs Transportation), role type (Obtainers vs Providers), and uncertainty avoidance (Strong vs Weak).

Findings

The results confirm that all antecedents and consequences significantly affect trust in platform or peers to varying degrees. Moreover, trust in platform greatly enhances trust in peers. Besides, the results of the moderating effect analyses demonstrate the variability of antecedents and consequences of trust under different subgroups.

Originality/value

This paper provides a clear and holistic view of the trust mechanism in the sharing economy from an object-based trust perspective. The findings may offer insights into trust-building in the sharing economy.

Details

Internet Research, vol. 34 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1066-2243

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 March 2023

Joko Mariyono

Rice agroecosystems must grow sustainably to meet the increasing demand for food. A fish-rice co-culture was introduced to conserve rice agroecosystems in farming communities…

Abstract

Purpose

Rice agroecosystems must grow sustainably to meet the increasing demand for food. A fish-rice co-culture was introduced to conserve rice agroecosystems in farming communities. This study aims to assess the technical, socio-economic and environmental outcomes as the pillars of sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a mixed qualitative-quantitative approach to assess a sustainable intensification programme's impact on sustainability. Data were collected using group discussions and self-assessment surveys. The study sites cover East Java and West Java provinces.

Findings

This study found that rice-fish co-culture improved the sustainability of the farming system. Farmers applied pest and disease management and partially substituted inorganic fertilisers with organic ones. The outcomes were apparent in the diversity of harvested products. Economically, the rice yield increased, the production costs decreased and the resultant increased income. Environmentally, the fish-rice co-culture was sound because of ecological inputs. The population of natural enemies of pests increased. Socially, fish-rice co-culture was acceptable to the community since there was no conflict with the local governments, local norms and religions and the existing farming practices of other crops.

Research limitations/implications

This study was based on five groups as case studies, such that the result might not represent the general condition.

Originality/value

The study's methodology was supported by valid economic theories and data directly gathered from farmers.

Details

Journal of Agribusiness in Developing and Emerging Economies, vol. 14 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-0839

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 May 2023

Luiz Eduardo Gaio and Daniel Henrique Dario Capitani

This study investigates the impacts of the Russia–Ukraine conflict on the cross-correlation between agricultural commodity prices and crude oil prices.

201

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates the impacts of the Russia–Ukraine conflict on the cross-correlation between agricultural commodity prices and crude oil prices.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used MultiFractal Detrended Fluctuation Cross-Correlation Analysis (MF-X-DFA) to explore the correlation behavior before and during conflict. The authors analyzed the price connections between future prices for crude oil and agricultural commodities. Data consists of daily futures price returns for agricultural commodities (Corn, Soybean and Wheat) and Crude Oil (Brent) traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange from Aug 3, 2020, to July 29, 2022.

Findings

The results suggest that cross-correlation behavior changed after the conflict. The multifractal behavior was observed in the cross correlations. The Russia–Ukraine conflict caused an increase in the series' fractal strength. The study findings showed that the correlations involving the wheat market were higher and anti-persistent behavior was observed.

Research limitations/implications

The study was limited by the number of observations after the Russia–Ukraine conflict.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature that investigates the impact of the Russia–Ukraine conflict on the financial market. As this is a recent event, as far as we know, we did not find another study that investigated cross-correlation in agricultural commodities using multifractal analysis.

Details

Journal of Agribusiness in Developing and Emerging Economies, vol. 15 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-0839

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 February 2025

Shuai bin Guan and Xingjian Fu

This study aims to optimize control strategies for multi-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems by integrating differential game theory with sliding mode control and neural…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to optimize control strategies for multi-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems by integrating differential game theory with sliding mode control and neural networks. This approach addresses challenges in dynamic and uncertain environments, enhancing UAV system coordination, operational stability and precision under varying flight conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology combines sliding mode control, differential game theory and neural network algorithms to devise a robust control framework for multi-UAV systems. Using a nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode observer and Nash equilibrium concepts, the approach counters external disturbances and optimizes UAV interactions for complex task execution.

Findings

Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy, showcasing enhanced stability and robustness in managing multi-UAV operations. The integration of neural networks successfully solves high-dimensional Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equations, validating the precision and adaptability of the control strategy under simulated external disturbances.

Originality/value

This research introduces a novel control framework for multi-UAV systems that uniquely combines differential game theory, sliding mode control and neural networks. The approach significantly enhances UAV coordination and operational stability in dynamic environments, providing a robust solution to high-dimensional control challenges. The use of neural networks to solve complex Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equations for real-time multi-UAV management represents a groundbreaking advancement in autonomous aerial vehicle research.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 97 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 28 May 2024

Nuanpan Lawson

Knowing financial and economic information beforehand benefits in planning and developing policies for every country especially for a developing country like Thailand and for…

Abstract

Purpose

Knowing financial and economic information beforehand benefits in planning and developing policies for every country especially for a developing country like Thailand and for other Asian countries. Unfortunately, missing data or non-response plays an essential role in many areas of studies including finance and economics. Eradication of missing data in a proper way before further analysis can gain remarkable outcomes and can be effective for planning policies. This review on the generalized regression estimators for population total can be applied to financial, economic and other data when missing data are present.

Design/methodology/approach

The generalized regression estimators for estimating population total, including the variance estimators under unequal probability sampling without replacement with missing data are explored under the reverse framework. Applications to financial and economic data in Thailand are also reviewed.

Findings

The review of literatures related to the proposed estimator shows the best performance, giving smaller variances in all scenarios.

Originality/value

The generalized regression estimators can assist in estimating financial and economic data that contain missing values with different missing mechanisms and can be used in other applications which help gain more superior estimators.

Details

Asian Journal of Economics and Banking, vol. 8 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2615-9821

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 November 2022

Chao Liu, Wei Zhang, Qiwei Xie and Chao Wang

This study aims to systematically reveal the complex interaction between uncertainty and the international commodity market (CRB).

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to systematically reveal the complex interaction between uncertainty and the international commodity market (CRB).

Design/methodology/approach

A composite uncertainty index and five categorical uncertainty indices, together with wavelet analysis and detrended cross-correlation analysis, were used. First, in the time-frequency domain, the coherency and lead-lag relationship between uncertainty and the commodity markets were investigated. Furthermore, the transmission direction of the cross-correlation over different lag periods and asymmetry in this cross-correlation under different trends were identified.

Findings

First, there is significant coherency between uncertainties and CRB mainly in the short and medium terms, with natural disaster and public health uncertainties tending to lead CRB. Second, uncertainty impacts CRB more markedly over shorter lag periods, whereas the impact of CRB on uncertainty gradually increases with longer lag periods. Third, the cross-correlation is asymmetric and multifractal under different trends. Finally, from the perspective of lag periods and trends, the interaction of uncertainty with the Chinese commodity market is significantly different from its interaction with CRB.

Originality/value

First, this study comprehensively constructs a composite uncertainty index based on five types of uncertainty. Second, this study provides a scientific perspective on examining the core and diverse interactions between uncertainty and CRB, as achieved by investigating the interactions of CRB with five categorical and composite uncertainties. Third, this study provides a new research framework to enable multiscale analysis of the complex interaction between uncertainty and the commodity markets.

Details

International Journal of Emerging Markets, vol. 19 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-8809

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 August 2023

Jia Jia Chang and Zhi Jun Hu

This study aims to investigate the effects and implications of overconfidence in a competitive game involving multiple newsvendors. This study explores how overconfidence…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effects and implications of overconfidence in a competitive game involving multiple newsvendors. This study explores how overconfidence influences system coordination, optimal stocking strategies and competition among newsvendors in the context of the well-known newsvendor stocking problem.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies robust optimization theory and the absolute regret minimization criterion to analyze the competitive game of overconfident newsvendors. This study considers the asymmetric information held by newsvendors regarding market demand and obtains a closed-form solution for the competing game. The effects of overconfidence on system coordination and optimal stocking strategies are examined.

Findings

The results of the study indicate that overconfidence can act as a positive force in reducing the effects of overstocking caused by competition and asymmetric information among newsvendors. The analysis reveals that there exists an optimal level of overconfidence that coordinates the ordering system of multiple overconfident newsvendors, leading to first-best outcomes under certain conditions. Additionally, numerical examples confirm the obtained results. Furthermore, considering newsvendors' expected profit, the study finds that a higher degree of overconfidence does not necessarily result in lower actual expected profit.

Research limitations/implications

Despite the significant contributions of this study to theoretical and managerial insights, this study does have certain limitations. First, in the establishment of the belief demand function, the substitution ratio, which quantifies the transfer, is assumed to be an exogenous variable. However, in reality, this is often influenced by factors such as the price of goods and the distance between stores. Therefore, one direction worth studying in the future is to explore the uncertainty associated with the demand substitution ratio and integrate that as an endogenous variable into the optimization model. Second, this study does not address the type of product and solely focuses on quantitatively analyzing the effect of salvage value on the optimal stocking strategy. Future studies can explore the effect of degree of perishability and selling period of the product on the stocking. Third, the focus of uncertainty in this study revolves around market demand, and the implications of this uncertainty are significant. A recent study (Rahbari et al., 2023) addressed an innovative robust optimization problem related to canned foods during pandemic crises. The recent study's findings highlighted the effectiveness of expanding canned food exports to neighboring countries with economic justification as the best strategy for companies amidst the disruptions caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Incorporating the issue of disruptions into the authors' research would be interesting and challenging.

Practical implications

From a managerial perspective, the authors' study provides a research paradigm for game-theoretic inventory problems in scenarios where the market demand distribution is unknown. While most inventory problems are analyzed and solved based on expectation-based optimization criteria, which rely on an accurate distribution of market demand, obtaining this information in practice can often be challenging or expensive for decision-makers. Consequently, a discrepancy arises between real-world observations and theoretical identifications. This study aimed to complement previous research and address the inconsistency between observations and theoretical identification.

Social implications

The authors' research contributes to the existing understanding of overconfidence and assists individuals in making appropriate stocking strategies based on the individuals' level of overconfidence. Diverging significantly from the traditional view of overconfidence as a negative bias, the authors' results show the view's potential positive impact within a competitive environment, resulting in greater actual expected profits for newsvendors.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by examining the effects of overconfidence in a competitive game of newsvendors. This study extends the analysis of the well-known newsvendor stocking problem by incorporating overconfidence and considering the implications for system coordination and competition. The application of robust optimization theory and the absolute regret minimization criterion provides a novel approach to studying overconfidence in this context.

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