Search results
1 – 10 of 19Yang Li, Zhicheng Zheng, Yaochen Qin, Haifeng Tian, Zhixiang Xie and Peijun Rong
Drought is the primary disaster that negatively impacts agricultural and animal husbandry production. It can lead to crop reduction and even pose a threat to human survival in…
Abstract
Purpose
Drought is the primary disaster that negatively impacts agricultural and animal husbandry production. It can lead to crop reduction and even pose a threat to human survival in environmentally sensitive areas of China (ESAC). However, the phases and periodicity of drought changes in the ESAC remain largely unknown. Thus, this paper aims to identify the periodic characteristics of meteorological drought changes.
Design/methodology/approach
The potential evapotranspiration was calculated using the Penman–Monteith formula recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, whereas the standardized precipitation evaporation index (SPEI) of drought was simulated by coupling precipitation data. Subsequently, the Bernaola-Galvan segmentation algorithm was proposed to divide the periods of drought change and the newly developed extreme-point symmetric mode decomposition to analyze the periodic drought patterns.
Findings
The findings reveal a significant increase in SPEI in the ESAC, with the rate of decline in drought events higher in the ESAC than in China, indicating a more pronounced wetting trend in the study area. Spatially, the northeast region showed an evident drying trend, whereas the southwest region showed a wetting trend. Two abrupt changes in the drought pattern were observed during the study period, namely, in 1965 and 1983. The spatial instability of moderate or severe drought frequency and intensity on a seasonal scale was more consistent during 1966–1983 and 1984–2018, compared to 1961–1965. Drought variation was predominantly influenced by interannual oscillations, with the periods of the components of intrinsic mode functions 1 (IMF1) and 2 (IMF2) being 3.1 and 7.3 years, respectively. Their cumulative variance contribution rate reached 70.22%.
Research limitations/implications
The trend decomposition and periods of droughts in the study area were analyzed, which may provide an important scientific reference for water resource management and agricultural production activities in the ESAC. However, several problems remain unaddressed. First, the SPEI considers only precipitation and evapotranspiration, making it extremely sensitive to temperature increases. It also ignores the nonstationary nature of the hydrometeorological water process; therefore, it is prone to bias in drought detection and may overestimate the intensity and duration of droughts. Therefore, further studies on the application and comparison of various drought indices should be conducted to develop a more effective meteorological drought index. Second, the local water budget is mainly affected by surface evapotranspiration and precipitation. Evapotranspiration is calculated by various methods that provide different results. Therefore, future studies need to explore both the advantages and disadvantages of various evapotranspiration calculation methods (e.g. Hargreaves, Thornthwaite and Penman–Monteith) and their application scenarios. Third, this study focused on the temporal and spatial evolution and periodic characteristics of droughts, without considering the driving mechanisms behind them and their impact on the ecosystem. In future, it will be necessary to focus on a sensitivity analysis of drought indices with regard to climate change. Finally, although this study calculated the SPEI using meteorological data provided by China’s high-density observatory network, deviations and uncertainties were inevitable in the point-to-grid spatialization process. This shortcoming may be avoided by using satellite remote sensing data with high spatiotemporal resolution in the future, which can allow pixel-scale monitoring and simulation of meteorological drought evolution.
Practical implications
Under the background of continuous global warming, the climate in arid and semiarid areas of China has shown a trend of warming and wetting. It means that the plant environment in this region is getting better. In the future, the project of afforestation and returning farmland to forest and grassland in this region can increase the planting proportion of water-loving tree species to obtain better ecological benefits. Meanwhile, this study found that in the relatively water-scarce regions of China, drought duration was dominated by interannual oscillations (3.1a and 7.3a). This suggests that governments and nongovernmental organizations in the region should pay attention to the short drought period in the ESAC when they carry out ecological restoration and protection projects such as the construction of forest reserves and high-quality farmland.
Originality/value
The findings enhance the understanding of the phasic and periodic characteristics of drought changes in the ESAC. Future studies on the stress effects of drought on crop yield may consider these effects to better reflect the agricultural response to meteorological drought and thus effectively improve the tolerance of agricultural activities to drought events.
Details
Keywords
Ping Ning, Dorothy DeWitt, Hai Leng Chin and Han Wang
This study aims to investigate the impact of viewing different types of digital environment images on college students’ positive emotions, nature relatedness and environmental…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the impact of viewing different types of digital environment images on college students’ positive emotions, nature relatedness and environmental preference. This aimed to address the gap in empirical studies regarding the effects of digital environment images on these psychological constructs.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a three-group experimental between-subjects design. Participants (48 undergraduate students) were divided into three groups, each viewing a different set of digital images (nature, city or object). Pre- and posttest measures assessed positive emotions and nature relatedness, whereas environmental preference was measured after image viewing. One-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) tests were used to analyze the data.
Findings
Viewing digital nature images elicited significantly higher positive emotions, nature relatedness and environmental preference compared to viewing city or object images. In addition, environmental preference for the digital object group was marginally higher than the city group.
Research limitations/implications
This study was limited by its relatively small sample size. Although further research is needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms behind the observed effects, this study provides valuable implications for education, economic dimensions and public policy initiatives, encouraging the development of pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors.
Practical implications
The findings suggest that incorporating digital nature images into learning activities can promote positive emotions, nature relatedness and environmental preference among college students. This has implications for the design of digital learning environments, especially for those with limited access to natural environments.
Social implications
By promoting positive emotions and nature relatedness, digital nature experiences can contribute to emotional well-being and potentially foster pro-environmental behaviors. This can have implications for promoting sustainable lifestyles and environmental conservation efforts.
Originality/value
This study provides original empirical evidence on the impact of viewing digital environment images on several psychological constructs. It highlights the potential of digital nature experiences as a complement to direct nature exposure, particularly for those with limited access to natural environments. These findings contribute to the growing body of literature on the benefits of digital nature experiences and have implications for various fields, including education, environmental psychology and human–computer interaction.
Details
Keywords
Loan Thi Cam Bui, Maria Carvalho, Hai Thanh Pham, Tram Thi Bich Nguyen, An Thi Binh Duong and Huy Truong Quang
The research objective is rooted in the principle of providing new insights and a collective perspective regarded as Supply Chain Quality Management 4.0 (SCQM4.0), an integration…
Abstract
Purpose
The research objective is rooted in the principle of providing new insights and a collective perspective regarded as Supply Chain Quality Management 4.0 (SCQM4.0), an integration of all three concepts – Industrie 4.0, quality management and supply chain management.
Design/methodology/approach
A thorough review of historical developments and existing integration trends among Industrie 4.0, quality and supply chain approaches along with future research directions outlined in the main literature, was conducted. This work establishes a knowledge base on research topics, issues of integration and synergies with a concentration on the potential for deeper integration with supply chain operations.
Findings
This article not only introduced the term SCQM4.0 and proposed a definition for it, but also contributed a novel conceptual SCQM4.0 framework and evolutionary perspective through the SCQM4.0 maturation model. Stemming from the gaps, opportunities and benefits identified in the literature, the conceptual SCQM4.0 framework builds on the high potential of the SCQM4.0 constructs to achieve successful governance and implementation. Under the SCQM4.0 maturity framework, it provides a clear evolutionary path underpinned by the SCQM4.0 constructs.
Research limitations/implications
In the effort toward a successful SCQM4.0 implementation, the proposed SCQM4.0 maturity frameworks will be a “road map” for businesses to develop fully and actively in supply chain operations, bringing quality products and services for the company. Industry practitioners are encouraged to perform gap analysis and direct the implementation of the strategy to establish an excellent SCQM4.0.
Originality/value
This is one of the pioneering studies integrating all three concepts (Industrie 4.0, quality management and supply chain management), connecting the link and discovering more synergies to support the future development of more holistic management models. SCQM4.0 is expected to expand on the strengths, synergies and established relationships between technologies 4.0, quality and supply chain, contributing toward a pioneering and quality supply chain.
Details
Keywords
Weipeng Ke, Yiyao Kang, Baojun Dong, Wei Liao, Xiaolong Ji, Jianchao He, Xuesong Leng and Hongsheng Chen
This study aims to investigate the corrosion behavior of Cu-containing 3Ni steel in simulated marine environments and to provide basic guidance for improving the corrosion…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the corrosion behavior of Cu-containing 3Ni steel in simulated marine environments and to provide basic guidance for improving the corrosion resistance of marine high-strength steels.
Design/methodology/approach
The corrosion properties of Cu-containing 3Ni steel were evaluated in five different NaCl concentrations by alternating wet and dry cycling method. The corrosion behavior was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The mechanism of the influence of Cl ion concentrations on the corrosion behavior of Cu-containing 3Ni steel in marine environments was analyzed.
Findings
The results showed that the corrosion resistance of Cu-containing 3Ni steel decreased with NaCl concentration increasing. With the increase of NaCl concentration, the number of FeOOH particles decreased and their size increased, resulting in an increase in the porosity and a decrease in the density of corrosion products. High NaCl concentration could inhibit the formation of NiFe2O4 and disrupt the electronegativity of the inner film of corrosion products, which further weakened the enrichment of Ni and Cu, and enhanced the permeability of Cl ions.
Originality/value
The influence of NaCl concentrations on the corrosion behavior of Cu-containing 3Ni steel was systematically studied and the influence laws of corrosion behavior were obtained in this paper, providing basic data for the optimal design of Cu-containing 3Ni steels.
Details
Keywords
Siavash Moayedi, Jamal Zamani and Mohammad Salehi
This paper aims to provide a full introduction, new classification, comparison and investigation of the challenges as well as applications of layerless 3D printing, which is one…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to provide a full introduction, new classification, comparison and investigation of the challenges as well as applications of layerless 3D printing, which is one of the industry 4.0 pioneers.
Design/methodology/approach
Given the significance and novelty of uniform 3D printing, more than 250 publications were collected and reviewed in an unbiased and clear manner.
Findings
As a result, the majority of uniform parts printed in polymer form are known up to this point. In a novel division for better researchers’ comprehension, uniform printing systems were classified into three categories: oxygen inhibition (OI), liquid lubrication (LL) and photon penetration (PP), and each was thoroughly investigated. Furthermore, these three approaches were evaluated in terms of printing speed, precision and accuracy, manufacturing scale and cost.
Originality/value
The parameters of each approach were compared independently, and then a practical comparison was conducted among these three approaches. Finally, a variety of technologies, opportunities, challenges and advantages of each significant method, as well as a future outlook for layerless rapid prototyping, are presented.
Details
Keywords
Lakshmi Devaraj, Thaarini S., Athish R.R. and Vallimanalan Ashokan
This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of thin-film temperature sensors (TTS), focusing on the interplay between material properties and fabrication techniques. It…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of thin-film temperature sensors (TTS), focusing on the interplay between material properties and fabrication techniques. It evaluates the current state of the art, addressing both low- and high-temperature sensors, and explores the potential applications across various fields. The study also identifies challenges and highlights emerging trends that may shape the future of this technology.
Design/methodology/approach
This study systematically examines existing literature on TTS, categorizing the materials and fabrication methods used. The study compares the performance metrics of different materials, addresses the challenges encountered in thin-film sensors and reviews the case studies to identify successful applications. Emerging trends and future directions are also analyzed.
Findings
This study finds that TTS are integral to various advanced technologies, particularly in high-performance and specialized applications. However, their development is constrained by challenges such as limited operational range, material degradation, fabrication complexities and long-term stability. The integration of nanostructured materials and the advancement of wireless, self-powered and multifunctional sensors are poised to drive significant advancements in this field.
Originality/value
This study offers a unique perspective by bridging the gap between material science and application engineering in TTS. By critically analyzing both established and emerging technologies, the study provides valuable insights into the current state of the field and proposes pathways for future innovation in terms of interdisciplinary approaches. The focus on emerging trends and multifunctional applications sets this review apart from existing literature.
Details
Keywords
Lu (Monroe) Meng, Jiuqi Chen, Mengya Yang and Yijie Wang
This paper aims to explore the effectiveness of customer inoculation strategies in the context of AI service failures in the hospitality and tourism industries. Furthermore, it…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore the effectiveness of customer inoculation strategies in the context of AI service failures in the hospitality and tourism industries. Furthermore, it examines how these strategies can enhance customer complaint behavior and satisfaction with service recovery, thereby improving the overall service experience.
Design/methodology/approach
Four distinct studies were conducted: Study 1 investigated the influence of customer inoculation on complaint behavior post-AI service failure. Study 2 assessed the impact of service remedies on customer satisfaction. Study 3 explored the implications of initial purchase and usage intentions. Finally, Study 4 validated the findings using a large-scale online survey.
Findings
The results indicated that customer inoculation significantly increases customer complaint behavior and satisfaction with service remedies following AI service failures. They also showed that this relationship is mediated by psychological distance. Furthermore, customer inoculation positively affects initial purchase and usage intentions, demonstrating effectiveness at various customer engagement stages.
Practical implications
This study enriches the literature on AI hospitality service failure and recovery by introducing the novel concept of customer inoculation. Additionally, it significantly contributes to the inoculation theory literature, which covers diverse fields. Practically, this study proposes an efficient and low-cost strategy for marketers.
Originality/value
This study introduces the concept of customer inoculation in the context of AI service failures, a novel approach in the hospitality and tourism literature. It provides empirical evidence of the efficacy of the strategy, bridging a crucial gap in understanding customer behavior in the face of technological disruptions.
Details
Keywords
Katarzyna Piwowar-Sulej and Qaisar Iqbal
Drawing on social exchange and social comparison theories, the current work aims to examine the direct and indirect effect of sustainable leadership (SL) on employees’…
Abstract
Purpose
Drawing on social exchange and social comparison theories, the current work aims to examine the direct and indirect effect of sustainable leadership (SL) on employees’ change-oriented organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) through workplace envy (WE).
Design/methodology/approach
The authors collected data from multiple sources (311 employees and respective supervisors) of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Saudi Arabia. Partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) analysis was conducted to verify the proposed hypotheses.
Findings
The current empirical results confirmed that SL positively influences change-oriented OCB – both directly and indirectly (through WE). The negative impact of WE on change-oriented OCB is also concluded in this study.
Originality/value
To the best of authors’ knowledge, this is among pioneer studies which introduced inhibitor as a mediator in the “SL-employee behavioral outcomes” relationship. Limitations and implications have been elaborated at the end of the study.
Details
Keywords
Ayşe Meriç Yazıcı and Hüseyin Çiçeklioğlu
The purpose of this study is to examine how green innovation awareness is integrated into corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices and what regulatory role environmental…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to examine how green innovation awareness is integrated into corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices and what regulatory role environmental ethics plays in this process. This study evaluates how green innovation shapes the environmental, social and economic responsibilities of businesses and its impact on achieving sustainable development goals.
Design/methodology/approach
The population of this study consists of four field operation centers of a nuclear power plant operating in the Mediterranean Region of Turkey. The sample consists of 397 employees in the field operation center using simple random sampling method.
Findings
The findings of this study revealed positive and significant relationships between the variables. According to the results obtained from both models, green innovation awareness and environmental ethics variables have a positive and significant effect on CSR, but environmental ethics does not have a moderating role in the effect of green innovation awareness on CSR.
Originality/value
This study is important in that it will help to clarify the gray areas in the literature by developing recommendations for practitioners, researchers and professionals in line with the research results. In addition, the fact that the research was conducted in the field studies of a nuclear power plant, which is one of the best places to address the issues of green innovation, CSR and environmental ethics, increases its importance.
Details
Keywords
K.K. Suneera, D. Mavoothu and Muhammed Sajid
This study aims to reveal the positive effects of workplace fun forms on employee positive affect state and workplace well-being. This study also aims to examine workplace…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to reveal the positive effects of workplace fun forms on employee positive affect state and workplace well-being. This study also aims to examine workplace friendship opportunity and workplace friendship prevalence in the context of fun events and workplace well-being.
Design/methodology/approach
The research model developed and tested with responses from 1,000 thousand Indian frontline employees of five-star hotels who have worked in the hospitality industry for at least two years and who have been exposed to fun committees at their workplace.
Findings
This study revealed that workplace fun forms are the main causes of employee positive affective reactions, and they have positive effects on frontline employees' positive affect. The study also found that fun activities, customer interaction with fun and manager support for fun as workplace events are strong proximal causes for forming positive affect when they have workplace friendship opportunity. Coworker socialization can induce employee positive affect in the workplace, even without the moderating effect of workplace friendship opportunity. Additionally, the positive effect of positive affect was found to be significant on workplace well-being.
Practical implications
Hospitality management is required to foster fun culture with fun activities, coworker socialization, manager support for fun and customer interaction with fun that enhance employee affective reactions to uplift employee positive affect state. This study also presents more interesting practical implications for practitioners and managers.
Originality/value
This study empirically tested deferential workplace fun forms on positive affect, and study provides novel insights into positive affect and workplace well-being. Four mediation mechanisms examined on fun forms and workplace well-being. Four moderating roles of workplace friendship opportunity tested on positive affect and fun events. Workplace friendship prevalence moderation on positive affect and workplace well-being helped to understand employee cognitive mechanism.
Details