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1 – 10 of 13Tao Li, Zifang Tian, Yang Wang and Caiping Zhang
This study explores whether media coverage of Chinese food safety guide consumer behaviour and determines its impact.
Abstract
Purpose
This study explores whether media coverage of Chinese food safety guide consumer behaviour and determines its impact.
Design/methodology/approach
Using data from the China Family Panel Studies, this study implements unsupervised machine learning methods to quantitatively identify themes in news media coverage of food safety across various provinces and regions. Based on these findings, this study examines the impact of coverage of food safety on consumer behaviour related to FAFH.
Findings
We find that media coverage of food safety in the restaurant sector significantly decreases household expenditure on FAFH relative to total expenditure. While negative coverage substantially decreases expenditure on FAFH, non-negative coverage significantly increases it. Reports of food safety incidents outside consumers’ province are negatively correlated with expenditure on FAFH, whereas reports within province significantly increases such spending. Further, the negative impact of media coverage on FAFH spending is less pronounced among higher-income families, households headed by individuals with high educational levels and those with low sensitivity to newspaper information. A robust government information infrastructure also mitigates this negative impact.
Research limitations/implications
The findings have important policy reference value for promoting the healthy development of catering and other life services by improving news reporting and the regulatory system.
Originality/value
This article employs machine learning methods to identify news reports related to food safety in the catering industry quantitatively and incorporates them into the study of household consumption in China. Consequently, this not only fills a gap in the existing literature but also provides a new perspective for interdisciplinary research in economics, sociology and computer science.
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Xiujuan Tian, Jiankun Hu, Caiping Zhang and Yang Zhao
The purpose of this paper is to explore the housing behaviors of rural-urban migrant workers in China and the associated socioeconomic determinants.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the housing behaviors of rural-urban migrant workers in China and the associated socioeconomic determinants.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors developed a model to empirically identify the effects of income in multi-dimension, destination expected to live in the future, local housing policy, and a set of individual characteristics on housing-related expenditure and home purchase of rural-urban migrants. A survey data collected by the Development Research Center of the State Council was employed.
Findings
The results showed that migrants’ expecting place to live in the future is a significant factor influencing their housing-related decisions. Including migrant workers in local housing security system of the host city could also significantly improve their incentive to purchase home. Income jointly with income stability affects migrants’ housing-related expenditure positively, but has an insignificant effect on home purchases in host city. The cost to buy home in city is still far away from migrant’s affordability is a likely explanation.
Originality/value
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study aiming to investigate rural-urban migrants’ housing behavior in host city and to empirically identify the associated influencing factors.
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Junfei Bai, Caiping Zhang, Fangbin Qiao and Tom Wahl
The purpose of this paper is to investigate factors influencing household food consumption away from home in Beijing by type of food facility and type of meal.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate factors influencing household food consumption away from home in Beijing by type of food facility and type of meal.
Design/methodology/approach
Derived from the Becker's household production and consumption theory, the authors econometrically specified household expenditure function on food away from home. Box‐Cox transformed double‐hurdle models were estimated. The data were collected in 2007 in Beijing China by the authors, using a diary‐based method designed specifically for this study.
Findings
Household income, time opportunity cost and other socio‐demographic and economic factors were found to be important determinants of household participation and expenditure decisions for dining out. However, the importance of these factors varied by type of food facility and type of meal. Meanwhile, the estimated elasticities with respect to income were correspondingly higher than those for developed countries, suggesting that the demand for food away from home by Chinese households is still in an upward trend.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is the first to analyze Chinese household food consumption away from home by type of food facility and type of meal. Besides, this study uses an exclusive dataset collected from a seven‐day diary‐based survey. The data include more specific information on food away from home than the Urban Household Income and Expenditure (UHIE) survey data conducted by National Bureau of Statistics of China. The UHIE data were extensively used in previous studies on food consumption in China, but are believed to significantly underestimate food away from home consumption.
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H.S. Ketan, M.A. Al‐Bassam, M.B. Adel and I. Rawabdeh
Concurrent design and manufacturing is widely accepted as essential for obtaining an economically conceivable design solution for industrial production. Nevertheless the…
Abstract
Concurrent design and manufacturing is widely accepted as essential for obtaining an economically conceivable design solution for industrial production. Nevertheless the development of a viable computer‐aided inspection planning (CAIP) using CAD as input for effective NC‐measuring data preparation has not yet been successful. This paper introduces an approach to direct integration between CAD and CAIP by developing a feature‐based computer aided design/inspection planning (FB‐CAIP) system. The FB‐CAIP system contains a computer‐internal model of a product that contains sufficient information to guide the direct generation of NC code of the inspection activity. The developed small prototype system integrates knowledge‐based inspection planning with feature‐based CAD system for an automatic CNC measuring program generation of prismatic parts.
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The purpose of this study was to develop a TiAlSiCN coating with high bonding and hardness, ultra-low friction and good lubrication characteristics, which provided an experimental…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to develop a TiAlSiCN coating with high bonding and hardness, ultra-low friction and good lubrication characteristics, which provided an experimental basis for the surface modification of YT14 cemented carbide cutting tools.
Design/methodology/approach
In this work, a TiAlSiCN coating was deposited on YT14 cemented carbide cutting tool through cathodic arc ion plating. The surface-interface morphologies, distributions of chemical elements, phases, bonding energy and surface roughness were analyzed using field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy, respectively, and the coating the bonding strength were quantitatively characterized with a scratch.
Findings
The average COFs of the TiAlSiCN coating at 700°C, 800°C and 900°C were 0.68, 0.57 and 0.38, respectively, showing that the TiAlSiCN coating was an effective lubricant at a high temperature, and the wear rate of the coating increases with wear temperature. After wearing at 700°C, 800°C and 900°C, the Ti, Si and N elements form atom-poor regions, while Al forms an atom-rich region, showing that the oxides of Ti, Al and Si are formed to improve the wear resistance of the coating. The wear mechanism of TiAlSiCN coating at high temperatures was composed of abrasive wear and oxidation wear.
Originality/value
The friction-wear behaviors of TiAlSiN coating were investigated using an HT-1000-type high-temperature friction wear tester, and the worn tracks on the coatings were analyzed using an EDS plane scan, thus obtaining the wear mechanism of TiAlSiN coating.
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Kong Dejun and Li Jiahong
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the salt spray corrosion (SSC) and electrochemical corrosion performances of CrNi, TiAlN/NiCr and CrNi–Al2O3–TiO2 coatings on H13 steel…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the salt spray corrosion (SSC) and electrochemical corrosion performances of CrNi, TiAlN/NiCr and CrNi–Al2O3–TiO2 coatings on H13 steel, which improved the corrosion resistance of H13 hot work mold.
Design/methodology/approach
CrNi, TiAlN/NiCr and CrNi–Al2O3–TiO2 coatings were fabricated on H13 hot work mold steel using a laser cladding and cathodic arc ion plating. The SSC and electrochemical performances of obtained coatings were investigated using a corrosion test chamber and electrochemical workstation, respectively. The corrosion morphologies, microstructure and phases were analyzed using an electron scanning microscope, optical microscope and X-ray diffraction, respectively, and the mechanisms of corrosion resistance were also discussed.
Findings
The CrNi coating is penetrated by corrosion media, producing the oxide of Fe3O4 on the coating surface; and the TiAlN coating is corroded to enter into the CrNi coating, forming the oxides of TiO and NiO, the mechanism is pitting corrosion, whereas the CrNi–Al2O3–TiO2 coating is not penetrated, with no oxides, showing the highest SSC resistance among the three kinds of coatings. The corrosion potential of CrNi coating, TiAlN/CrNi and CrNi–Al2O3–TiO2 coatings was –0.444, –0.481 and –0.334 V, respectively, and the corresponding polarization resistances were 3,074, 2,425 and 86,648 cm2, respectively. The electrochemical corrosion resistance of CrNi–Al2O3–TiO2 coating is the highest, which is enhanced by the additions of Al2O3 and TiO2.
Originality/value
The CrNi, TiAlN/CrNi and CrNi–Al2O3–TiO2 coatings on H13 hot work mold were firstly evaluated by the SSC and electrochemical performances.
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Qianqian Zhang, Faqin Lin, Xiuqing Wang and Xian Xin
The purpose of this paper is to present an oligopolistic version of the cobweb model that departs from the strict assumptions of perfect competition in the traditional cobweb…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present an oligopolistic version of the cobweb model that departs from the strict assumptions of perfect competition in the traditional cobweb model.
Design/methodology/approach
Introducing a model where n identical producers engage in Cournot competition, with output decisions influencing market prices. The paper retains the original assumptions of naive expectations and a linear model where price expectations of Cournot competitors are made simultaneously with production decisions. The investigation focuses on the model's behavior as the number of producers decreases or industry concentration increases. The authors also show empirical evidence when drawing the data from the pig sector in China and the USA.
Findings
The findings indicate that the cobweb model undergoes a transition from divergent to continuous and even convergent as the number of producers decreases or industry concentration increases. The incorporation of costs related to entry and exit from the market contributes to achieving a more stable equilibrium state.
Originality/value
The cobweb model has been primarily studied in an idealized market structure of perfect competition, and the assumptions that they share are not obviously appropriate to many agriculture markets. This study presents an alternative version of the cobweb model in an oligopolistic market that relaxes the strict assumptions of perfect competition. The authors show the dynamics of reduced competitor numbers or increased industry concentration on the convergence of the cobweb model based on subtle variations in parameters.
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The Internet is full of resources on China and Chinese studies. However, many new users are often overwhelmed by the vast amount of information on the Web. This paper is to offer…
Abstract
The Internet is full of resources on China and Chinese studies. However, many new users are often overwhelmed by the vast amount of information on the Web. This paper is to offer a starting point for inexperienced users interested in finding information over the Internet on Chinese culture, art, language, literature, history, philosophy and current affairs, etc. It focuses on the World Wide Web resources only, and choices of entry are selective rather than exhaustive.
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Jun Zhao, Zhenguo Lu and Guang Wang
This study aims to address the challenge of the real-time state of charge (SOC) estimation for lithium-ion batteries in robotic systems, which is critical for monitoring remaining…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to address the challenge of the real-time state of charge (SOC) estimation for lithium-ion batteries in robotic systems, which is critical for monitoring remaining battery power, planning task execution, conserving energy and extending battery lifespan.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors introduced an optimal observer based on adaptive dynamic programming for online SOC estimation, leveraging a second-order resistor–capacitor model for the battery. The model parameters were determined by fitting an exponential function to the voltage response from pulse current discharges, and the observer's effectiveness was verified through extensive experimentation.
Findings
The proposed optimal observer demonstrated significant improvements in SOC estimation accuracy, robustness and real-time performance, outperforming traditional methods by minimizing estimation errors and eliminating the need for iterative steps in the adaptive critic and actor updates.
Originality/value
This study contributes a novel approach to SOC estimation using an optimal observer that optimizes the observer design by minimizing estimation errors. This method enhances the robustness of SOC estimation against observation errors and uncertainties in battery behavior, representing a significant advancement in battery management technology for robotic applications.
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Ting Liu, Jie Gao, Mingfang Zhu and Yajun Qiu
This study aims to examine the role of women’s career expectations (CEs) in changes in their career advancement (CA) and to determine whether these changes were because of…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the role of women’s career expectations (CEs) in changes in their career advancement (CA) and to determine whether these changes were because of socio-demographic factors.
Design/methodology/approach
Multiple linear regression was used to measure the relationship between women’s CEs and CA, as well as the influences that socio-demographic factors (e.g. education) have on that relationship.
Findings
Results indicated that CEs had two dimensions (i.e. career rewards and career development) and that career reward expectations had a significantly higher effect on CA than career development expectations. Furthermore, women were very likely to set higher CEs and stronger desires for CA as they became older. Results also showed that education, working years and position level were significantly related to women’s CA.
Practical implications
This study provides new insight into which aspects of women’s CA can be boosted by CEs and how these aspects may be affected by socio-demographic factors. This study can help hotels design better career management strategies to achieve the desired results. The study also provides guidance for women’s career management activities.
Originality/value
This study considers women’s CEs in hotels. The results revealed two dimensions (i.e. career rewards and career development) of CEs and uncovered the influences of socio-demographic factors on women’s CA, for example, age, education, working years and position level.
研究目的
基于对酒店业两个变量(即职业期望和职业晋升)的理解, 本研究旨在考察职业期望在妇女职业晋升变化中的作用, 并确定这些变化是否由社会人口特征因素引起。
设计/方法/途径
采用问卷调查的方式收集数据。采用多元线性回归来衡量女性职业期望和职业晋升之间的关系, 以及社会人口特征因素(如教育)对这种关系的影响。
研究结果
结果表明, 职业期望有两个维度(即职业奖励和职业发展), 职业奖励期望对职业晋升的影响明显高于职业发展期望。此外, 随着年龄的增长, 女性倾向于有更高的职业期望和更强烈的职业晋升愿望。结果还显示, 受教育程度、工作年限、职位级别与女性的职业晋升显著相关。
实践意义
这项研究为女性职业期望在哪些方面可以促进职业发展以及社会人口特征因素如何影响这些方面受到的提供了新的见解。这项研究可以帮助酒店设计更好的职业管理策略, 以达到预期效果。本研究也为女性的职业管理活动提供了指导。
原创性/价值
本研究将职业期望引入酒店业中女性员工职业发展研究。结果显示职业期望的两个维度(即职业奖励和职业发展), 并揭示了社会人口学因素如年龄、学历、工作年限和职位级别等对女性职业晋升发展的影响, 。
Propósito:
basado en la comprensión de dos variables (es decir, expectativas profesionales y avance profesional) en la industria hotelera, este estudio tuvo como objetivo examinar el papel de las expectativas profesionales en los cambios en el avance profesional de las mujeres y determinar si estos cambios se debieron a factores sociodemográficos.
Diseño/metodología/enfoque
Se Utilizó Un Cuestionario Para Recopilar Datos. Se Utilizó La Regresión Lineal Múltiple Para Medir La Relación Entre Las Expectativas Profesionales De Las Mujeres Y El Avance Profesional, Así Como Las Influencias Que Los Factores Sociodemográficos (Por Ejemplo, La Educación) Tienen En Esa Relación.
Resultados
Los Resultados Indicaron Que Las Expectativas De Carrera Tenían Dos Dimensiones (Es Decir, Recompensas De Carrera Y Desarrollo De Carrera) Y Que Las Expectativas De Recompensa De Carrera Tenían Un Efecto Significativamente Mayor En El Avance De La Carrera Que Las Expectativas De Desarrollo De Carrera. Además, Las Mujeres Tenían Más Probabilidades De Tener Expectativas Profesionales Más Altas Y Deseos Más Fuertes Para Avanzar En Su Carrera A Medida Que Envejecían. Los Resultados También Mostraron Que La Educación, Los Años De Trabajo Y El Nivel De Posición Estaban Significativamente Relacionados Con El Avance Profesional De Las Mujeres.
Implicaciones prácticas
Este Estudio Proporciona Una Nueva Perspectiva Sobre Qué Aspectos Del Avance Profesional De Las Mujeres Pueden Ser Impulsados Por Las Expectativas Profesionales Y Cómo Estos Aspectos Pueden Verse Afectados Por Factores Sociodemográficos. Este Estudio Puede Ayudar A Los Hoteles A Diseñar Mejores Estrategias De Gestión Profesional Para Lograr Los Resultados Deseados. El Estudio También Proporciona Orientación Para Las Actividades De Gestión Profesional De Las Mujeres.
Originalidad/Valor
este estudio considera las expectativas profesionales de las mujeres en la industria hotelera. Los resultados revelaron dos dimensiones (es decir, recompensas profesionales y desarrollo profesional) de las expectativas profesionales y descubrieron las influencias de los factores sociodemográficos en el avance profesional de las mujeres, por ejemplo, edad, educación, años de trabajo y nivel de posición.
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