Yanjin Lu, Yiliang Gan, Junjie Lin, Sai Guo, Songquan Wu and Jinxin Lin
The aim of the study is to obtain dense Ni-free CoCrW parts fabricated by selective laser melting (SLM) technique for dental application.
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of the study is to obtain dense Ni-free CoCrW parts fabricated by selective laser melting (SLM) technique for dental application.
Design/methodology/approach
The optimum of processing CoCrW powders was investigated by the varying laser scanning speeds between 200 and 1,500 mm/s with the other parameters fixed as constants. The investigations of density, phase, mechanical property and corrosion resistance were conducted.
Findings
It was found that a maximum relative density of 99.4 per cent was obtained with the preferable laser scanning speed of 700 mm/s; the outcome from the tensile test suggested that the 0.2 per cent yield strength of the specimen fabricated at 700 mm/s satisfied the type 5 criteria in ISO22764 for dental application, whereas the electrochemical test indicated that the specimens fabricated at 700 mm/s existed excellent corrosion resistance. The high precision dental denture could be fabricated by SLM.
Originality/value
In the study, the Ni-free CoCrW parts fabricated by SLM was investigated by the tensile and electrochemical tests. The yield strength, corrosion resistance and margin fit accuracy met requirements for dental application. It was considered that the speed of 700 mm/s with the laser powers of 95 W, the track width of 0.11 mm and the layer thickness of 25 μm are promising candidates for fabricating the CoCrW parts.
Details
Keywords
Monir Mir, Haiwei Fan and Ian Maclean
The paper aims to explore whether different models of public sector audit exist in China without adhering to the goals and objectives of public sector audit systems in democratic…
Abstract
Purpose
The paper aims to explore whether different models of public sector audit exist in China without adhering to the goals and objectives of public sector audit systems in democratic jurisdictions.
Design/methodology/approach
The study is based on a single embedded case study involving multiple methods of data collection including public documents, semi-structured interviews and site visits. The research methods and the analytical framework of the study draw on the concepts of political competition, public sector accountability and audit independence.
Findings
The study finds that the Chinese National Audit Office’s (CNAO) objectives derive from the neo-classical economic discourse and not from ideas of public accountability, as is the case in democratic parliamentary jurisdictions. The study finds that public sector audit in China functions in ways which are similar to that of internal audit. The CNAO may provide limited political and public accountability for Chinese public officials indirectly by enhancing their managerial accountabilities.
Research limitations/implications
The study goes against the prevailing view that supreme audit institutions which are part of the executive will lead to poor accountability of the public sector and increased public sector corruption.
Practical implications
The study suggests that enhancing managerial accountability in non-democratic (and pseudo-democratic) jurisdictions through public sector audit can by itself be of significant benefit. Further, such enhancements may also strengthen public sector accountability.
Originality/value
This paper fills a research gap by exploring public sector audit independence in a developing country with a unitary system of government.
Details
Keywords
Salomon Obahoundje, Vami Hermann N'guessan Bi, Arona Diedhiou, Ben Kravitz and John C. Moore
Three Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 models involved in the G4 experiment of the Geoengineering Model Inter-comparison Project (GeoMIP) project were used to…
Abstract
Purpose
Three Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 models involved in the G4 experiment of the Geoengineering Model Inter-comparison Project (GeoMIP) project were used to investigate the impact of stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) on the mean surface air temperature and precipitation extremes in Africa.
Design/methodology/approach
This impact was examined under G4 and Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 scenarios on the total precipitation, the number of rainy days (RR1) and of days with heavy rainfall (R20 mm), the rainfall intensity (SDII), the maximum length of consecutive wet (CWD) and dry (CDD) days and on the maximum rainfall in five consecutive days (Rx5day) across four regions: Western Africa (WAF), Eastern Africa (EAF), Northern Africa and Southern Africa (SAF).
Findings
During the 50 years (2020–2069) of SAI, mean continental warming is −0.40°C lower in G4 than under RCP4.5. During the post-injection period (2070–2090), the temperature continues to increase, but at a lower rate (−0.19°C) than in RCP4.5. During SAI, annual rainfall in G4 is significantly greater than in RCP4.5 over the high latitudes (especially over SAF) and lower over the tropics. The termination of SAI leads to a significant increase of rainfall over Sahel and EAF and a decrease over SAF and Guinea Coast (WAF).
Practical implications
Compared to RCP4.5, SAI will contribute to reducing significantly regional warming but with a significant decrease of rainfall in the tropics where rainfed agriculture account for a large part of the economies. After the SAI period, the risk of drought over the extratropical regions (especially in SAF) will be mitigated, while the risk of floods will be exacerbated in the Central Sahel.
Originality/value
To meet the Paris Agreement, African countries will implement mitigation measures to contribute to keep the surface air temperature below 2°C. Geoengineering with SAI is suggested as an option to meet this challenge, but its implication on the African climate system needs a deep investigation in the aim to understand the impacts on temperature and precipitation extremes. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the potential impact of SAI using the G4 experiment of GeoMIP on temperature and precipitation extremes of the African continent.
Details
Keywords
M.S. Sai Vinod, Pranav Umesh and N. Sivakumar
Prior research studies have discussed the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) during crisis situations in increasing the resilience and sustainability of the companies…
Abstract
Purpose
Prior research studies have discussed the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) during crisis situations in increasing the resilience and sustainability of the companies. There are two basic models of crisis management – reactive and proactive. When a crisis occurs, suddenly firms tend to act reactively and progressively take proactive steps to manage the crisis. CSR can also be reactive and proactive during crisis situations. Against this backdrop, this paper aims to explore whether CSR during the COVID-19 pandemic moved from a reactive to a proactive stance, with specific focus on CSR legislation, corporate CSR response and corporate thinking about CSR.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper adopts a mixed methods approach, using both qualitative and quantitative research designs. This study draws upon both primary and secondary data.
Findings
The results highlighted the change in the CSR approach from being reactive to being proactive as the pandemic progressed. This was observed through the increase in frequency of CSR legislation, and the shift in the intent of CSR legislation from “prompting to donate” to “prompting to volunteer.” Similarly, the shift in reactive to proactive CSR corporate response was observed through the increased spending on CSR and improved COVID-related CSR reporting.
Practical implications
This study recommends companies to manage crises by becoming more proactive. CSR activities need to be closely aligned with national developmental objectives, and collaborate with various stakeholders to achieve the intended outcomes of the activities.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research paper is one of the few to study the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on CSR in India at a time when India went through three waves of the pandemic. This study corroborates with other studies in terms of managing crisis.
Details
Keywords
Dat Tien Doan, Ali Ghaffarianhoseini, Nicola Naismith, Amirhosein Ghaffarianhoseini and John Tookey
In New Zealand, building information modelling (BIM) prevalence is still in its early stages and faces many challenges. This research aims to develop a BIM adoption framework to…
Abstract
Purpose
In New Zealand, building information modelling (BIM) prevalence is still in its early stages and faces many challenges. This research aims to develop a BIM adoption framework to determine the key factors affecting the success of a BIM project.
Design/methodology/approach
Both primary and secondary data were employed in this research, including 21 semi-structured interviews and industry guidelines from the three most well-known global building excellence models (BEMs). The data were analysed through content analysis due to its recognised benefits as a transparent and reliable approach.
Findings
Leadership, clients and other stakeholders, strategic planning, people, resources, process and results were identified as seven main categories along with 39 indicators in the BIM adoption framework. Based on the interviewees' perspectives, leadership is considered the most significant category, impacting all of the remaining categories.
Practical implications
Using the developed framework will enhance comprehension of BIM, offering directives for those embracing BIM. This will aid construction stakeholders in being better equipped for BIM projects. Having a skilled BIM manager can lead to the success of construction projects.
Originality/value
This research contributed to the existing body of knowledge by providing the categories with specific factors that assist BIM practitioners in assessing their BIM performance for further BIM practice improvement.
Details
Keywords
Nan Liu, Rui Zhou, Ruoyu Jin, Qing Xiao and Zhipeng Hu
The purpose of this paper is to summarize the research of construction conflict from 1991 to 2020 and propose research directions for future scholarly work. During the recent…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to summarize the research of construction conflict from 1991 to 2020 and propose research directions for future scholarly work. During the recent decades, it is widely accepted that construction conflict is inevitable, and conflict management has become an important component of project management. However, few works were done to map the global study in this field, there is limited review that evaluates the current stage of construction conflict research.
Design/methodology/approach
This study adopted a holistic literature review approach that incorporates bibliometric search and scientometric analysis. A total of 698 bibliographic records from the Web of Science core collection database were collected for the scientometric analysis. CiteSpace5.7 was adopted for the science mapping purpose in this study.
Findings
Through co-authorship analysis, co-word analysis and co-citation analysis, influential scholars and journals are identified. Several research trends are highlighted according to the scientometric analyses of the construction conflict topics. For example, the application of simulation and algorithms to the study of construction conflict management systems.
Practical implications
Construction is a resource-intensive, multi-participant and multi-targeted industry. Conflicts always exist in the whole life cycle of construction projects, it is important for industry practitioners to be updated of the latest movement and progress of the academic research.
Originality/value
This study contributed to the body of knowledge in construction conflict and bridge the research gap in the thorough review of previous research work.
Details
Keywords
Bernard Lim Jit Heng, Phuah Kit Teng, Siti Intan Nurdiana Wong Abdullah, Ow Mun Waei and Khoong Tai Wai
By market capitalisation, Bitcoin, which debuted in 2009, is the biggest cryptocurrency globally. A decentralised ledger system called blockchain is used in the creation…
Abstract
By market capitalisation, Bitcoin, which debuted in 2009, is the biggest cryptocurrency globally. A decentralised ledger system called blockchain is used in the creation, distribution, trading, and storage of Bitcoin, with the original goal being to address the shortcomings of fiat currency. This chapter highlights potential dangers and legal concerns when Bitcoin interacts with the actual economy and the traditional financial system. Besides, the details also discuss the platform’s design principles and attributes for a non-technical readership. When assessing its transactional potential, some recognise its potential for speculation, while others are doubtful of its admirable intent. The write-up also explores the potential of the adoption of cryptocurrencies in Southeast Asia due to the vast adoption of Bitcoins in countries such as Vietnam and the Philippines following the establishment of cryptocurrency technology and e-commerce. In addition, rankings of the cryptocurrency and legal stance from each country in Southeast Asia were exhibited as the solid foundation of cryptocurrencies existent for transaction purposes. The rise of central bank digital currencies (CBDC) and the future directions of Bitcoins were also highlighted in this write-up to spur the debate on whether cryptocurrency remains a fad of sensation or is legalised as the medium of exchange in an ever-growing digital world of commerce.
Details
Keywords
The purpose of this paper is to provide the historical background of genealogical records and analyze the value of Chinese genealogical research through the study of names and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide the historical background of genealogical records and analyze the value of Chinese genealogical research through the study of names and genealogical resources.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper examines the historical evolution and value of Chinese genealogical records, with the focus on researching the Islamic Chinese names used by the people living in Guilin. The highlight of this paper includes the analysis and evolution of the Islamic Chinese names commonly adopted by the local people in Guilin. It concludes with the recommendations on emphasizing and making the best use of genealogical records to enhance the research value of Chinese overseas studies.
Findings
The paper covers the history of Islam and describes how the religion was introduced into China, as well as Muslims' ethnicity and identity. It also places focus on the importance of building a research collection in Asian history and Chinese genealogy.
Research limitations/implications
This research study has a strong subject focus on Chinese genealogy, Asian history, and Islamic Chinese surnames. It is a narrow field that few researchers have delved into.
Practical implications
The results of this study will assist students, researchers, and the general public in tracing the origin of their surnames and developing their interest in the social and historical value of Chinese local history and genealogies.
Social implications
The study of Chinese surnames is, by itself, a particular field for researching the social and political implications of contemporary Chinese society during the time the family members lived.
Originality/value
Very little research has been done in the area of Chinese local history and genealogy. The paper would be of value to researchers such as historians, sociologists, ethnologists and archaeologists, as well as students and anyone interested in researching a surname origin, its history and evolution.
Details
Keywords
Xiaoyan Jiang, Sai Wang, Yong Liu, Bo Xia, Martin Skitmore, Madhav Nepal and Amir Naser Ghanbaripour
With the increasing complexity of public–private partnership (PPP) projects, the amount of data generated during the construction process is massive. This paper aims to develop a…
Abstract
Purpose
With the increasing complexity of public–private partnership (PPP) projects, the amount of data generated during the construction process is massive. This paper aims to develop a new information management method to cope with the risk problems involved in dealing with such data, based on domain ontologies of the construction industry, to help manage PPP risks, share and reuse risk knowledge.
Design/methodology/approach
Risk knowledge concepts are acquired and summarized through PPP failure cases and an extensive literature review to establish a domain framework for risk knowledge using ontology technology to help manage PPP risks.
Findings
The results indicate that the risk ontology is capable of capturing key concepts and relationships involved in managing PPP risks and can be used to facilitate knowledge reuse and storage beneficial to risk management.
Research limitations/implications
The classes in the risk knowledge ontology model constructed in this research do not yet cover all the information in PPP project risks and need to be further extended. Moreover, only the framework and basic methods needed are developed, while the construction of a working ontology model and the relationship between implicit and explicit knowledge is a complicated process that requires repeated modifications and evaluations before it can be implemented.
Practical implications
The ontology provides a basis for turning PPP risk information into risk knowledge to allow the effective sharing and communication of project risks between different project stakeholders. It can also have the potential to help reduce the dependence on subjectivity by mining, using and storing tacit knowledge in the risk management process.
Originality/value
The apparent suitability of the nine classes of PPP risk knowledge (project model, risk type, risk occurrence stage, risk source, risk consequence, risk likelihood, risk carrier, risk management measures and risk case) is identified, and the proposed construction method and steps for a complete domain ontology for PPP risk management are unique. A combination of criteria- and task-based evaluations is also developed for assessing the PPP risk ontology for the first time.
Details
Keywords
Swati Sucharita Pradhan, Raseswari Pradhan and Bidyadhar Subudhi
The dynamics of the PV microgrid (PVMG) system are highly nonlinear and uncertain in nature. It is encountered with parametric uncertainties and disturbances. This system cannot…
Abstract
Purpose
The dynamics of the PV microgrid (PVMG) system are highly nonlinear and uncertain in nature. It is encountered with parametric uncertainties and disturbances. This system cannot be controlled properly by conventional linear controllers. H− controller and sliding mode controller (SMC) may capable of controlling it with ease. Due to its inherent dynamics, SMC introduces unwanted chattering into the system output waveforms. This paper aims to propose a controller to reduce this chattering.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper presents redesign of the SMC by modifying its sliding surface and tuning its parameters by employing water-evaporation-optimization (WEO) based metaheuristic algorithm.
Findings
By using this proposed water-evaporation-optimization algorithm-double integral sliding mode controller (WEOA-DISMC), the chattering magnitude is diminished greatly. Further, to examine which controller between H8 controller and proposed WEOA-DISMC performs better in both normal and uncertain situations, a comparative analysis has been made in this paper. The considered comparison parameters are reference tracking, disturbance rejection and robust stability.
Originality/value
WEO tuned DISMC for PVMG system is the contribution.