Search results

1 – 10 of 177
Article
Publication date: 6 August 2024

Zhen Yan Yu and Shan Cong

The few previous researches on the impact of calf compression garments (CG) on running performance while assessing physiological and perceptual factors. Therefore, this study…

Abstract

Purpose

The few previous researches on the impact of calf compression garments (CG) on running performance while assessing physiological and perceptual factors. Therefore, this study investigated how the clothing pressure of two types of Calf CG, CG1 and CG2, affects muscle fatigue and activation during running.

Design/methodology/approach

Five healthy amateur runners(three female and two male)were recruited for a 30-min running trial. They wear a Calf CG on their right leg (CG group), but not on their left leg(CON group). After obtaining the clothing pressure of Calf CG on the gastrocnemius lateral head (GL), gastrocnemius medial head (GM) and tibialis anterior(TA) of the right leg, surface electromyography (sEMG)of four muscles of GL, GM, TA and rectus femoris (RF) of the left and right legs were measured during running, and heart rate, cardiopulmonary rate, and human RPE were also measured. Blood bleed oxygen before and after the running trial were measured. The root mean square (RMS) of the characteristic values was selected as an index for the analysis of sEMG signals, and the data were analyzed using statistical and computational methods.

Findings

The results showed that the indexes of heart rate, blood oxygen, and RPE were significantly increased, indicating that the subjects had reached the fatigue level. The comparison of mean clothing pressure at GL, GM and TA locations reveals that the TA location consistently exhibits the highest pressure for both types of CG. When wearing CG1, the mean clothing pressure at the GL and GM test points is greater than that of CG2(CG1-GL = 0.2059 kPa > CG2-GL = 0.148 kPa; CG1-GM = 0.1633 kPa > CG2-GM = 0.127 kPa). This is attributed to the double-layered fabric on the sides of CG1, which precisely covers the GL and GM areas, thereby resulting in higher mean clothing pressure at these locations compared to CG2. Conversely, the mean clothing pressure at the TA location for CG1 is lower than that for CG2(CG1-TA = 0.3852 kPa < CG2-TA = 0.426 kPa). The pressure exerted by the CG1 on the lower limb test areas has both positive and negative effects, though neither are statistically significant. The pressure exerted by CG2 alleviates fatigue at the directly affected locations GL and GM, but exerts excessive pressure on TA, resulting in a negative effect. Additionally, CG2 pressure alleviates fatigue at the indirectly affected location RF on the same side. Based on the specific clothing pressure data, it is concluded that when the pressure at the GM location is 0.127 kPa, 30 min of running has a fatigue-relieving effect. However, the pressure should not be excessively high, at 0.1633 kPa it exhibits an insignificant adverse effect. At the TA location, a garment pressure mean between 0.3852 and 0.426 kPa does not alleviate fatigue after 30 min of running, and the negative effect becomes more pronounced as the pressure increases. The pressure exerted by the CG at GL, GM, TA and RF locations shows significant changes from the previous time period during the 15–18 min interval after running. Therefore, in the design of CG, attention should be paid to the changes in clothing pressure effects on muscles during this specific time period.

Originality/value

The few previous researches on the impact of calf compression garments (CG) on running performance while assessing physiological and perceptual factors. Therefore, this study investigated how the clothing pressure of two types of Calf CG, CG1 and CG2, affects muscle fatigue and activation during running.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 36 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 September 2024

Xi Jin, Hui Xu, Qifeng Zhao, Hao Zeng, Bing Lin, Ying Xiao, Junlei Tang, Zhen Nie, Yan Yan, Zhigang Di and Rudong Zhou

This study aims to report the development and experimental evaluation of two kinds of PANI@semiconductor based photocathodic anti-corrosion coating, for application on stainless…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to report the development and experimental evaluation of two kinds of PANI@semiconductor based photocathodic anti-corrosion coating, for application on stainless steel substrates.

Design/methodology/approach

PANI was in situ chemical polymerized on TiO2 and BiVO4 particles, and FT-IR and SEM/EDS were used to understand the characteristics and elemental distribution of the composite particles. Composite coatings, which consisted of epoxy, PANI@TiO2 or PANI@BiVO4 and graphene, were prepared on the 304L stainless steel. Photoelectrochemical response measurement, electrochemical tests and immersion tests were used to assess the anti-corrosion performance of the prepared coatings in 45°C 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. And the corrosion protection mechanism was further explained by combining with surface observation.

Findings

The photoelectrochemical response tests revealed the good photocathodic effect of the coatings, and the reversible oxidation-reduction properties of PANI (pseudocapacitive effect) leading to the repeated usage of the coatings. Consequently, the anti-corrosion mechanism of the composite coating is attributed to the physical barrier effect of the coating, the anodic protection effect of PANI and the photocathodic and energy store effect.

Originality/value

These kind coatings could prevent corrosion from day to night for stainless steel, which has great engineering application prospects on stainless steel corrosion protection.

Details

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, vol. 71 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0003-5599

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 May 2020

Yingbo Ji, Kai Qi, Yuan Qi, Yan Li, Hong Xian Li, Zhen Lei and Yan Liu

This research aims to propose a comparative environmental analysis of conventional and prefabricated construction techniques utilizing a building information modelling (BIM…

1377

Abstract

Purpose

This research aims to propose a comparative environmental analysis of conventional and prefabricated construction techniques utilizing a building information modelling (BIM) technique.

Design/methodology/approach

A set of indicators are selected to assess the environmental emissions throughout the construction life cycle, based on BIM platform. An existing project involving ten apartment buildings in Shanghai is selected as a case study.

Findings

The results reveal that prefabricated construction demonstrates environment-friendly performance with some exceptions of acidification and mineral resource consumption. Environmental impacts can also be further reduced by increasing the projected area ratio and percentage of project prefabrication.

Originality/value

Overall, the proposed method can be used to identify relevant environmental merits and for decision-making of appropriate construction techniques in building construction projects.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 27 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 July 2011

Yan‐nan Gou and Jing Dong

By the re‐interpretation of the Book of Changes (I Ching), this article aims to build a framework for analyzing the structure and the evolvement of leadership.

1226

Abstract

Purpose

By the re‐interpretation of the Book of Changes (I Ching), this article aims to build a framework for analyzing the structure and the evolvement of leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

There are 64 hexagrams in Book of Changes. This article focuses the discussion on Qian hexagram, which is the first and the most important one in all the hexagrams. By using metaphysical concepts, this article builds a dynamic leadership system. This leadership system is composed of the four virtues of Qian (with the meaning of heaven, force), which are as follows: Yuan (creation and origination), Heng (cooperation and development), Li (achievement and sharing), and Zhen (firmness and perseverance). Based on this framework, by using the metaphor of dragon, this article develops an evolvement route of leadership according to the six situations set by the Qian hexagram, which are humble stage, emerging from hiding, trying your best, going up or down, reaching excellence, and starting to fall, and discusses the proper leadership in different situations.

Findings

There are four elements or virtues in leadership. The importance of each virtue and the key points in each of them change as an organization or a venture evolves from one situation to another. Leaders should match their leadership with the specific situation they are in.

Originality/value

According to the knowledge of the authors, this article is the first one in the world trying to set up a leadership system based on Book of Changes, especially Qian hexagram. The implications provided by this article would be very valuable for leaders to more successfully evaluate their situations and change their leaderships according the different challenges they may face.

Details

Journal of Management Development, vol. 30 no. 7/8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0262-1711

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 September 2019

Junliang He, Hang Yu, Caimao Tan, Wei Yan and Chao Jiang

The development of mega container ships and operational pressures puts forward higher requirements on the operational ability of the container terminal. Accordingly, the purpose…

Abstract

Purpose

The development of mega container ships and operational pressures puts forward higher requirements on the operational ability of the container terminal. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to propose an effective method for quay crane (QC) scheduling of multiple hatches vessel considering double-cycling strategy to improve the operation efficiency and reduce the risk of delay.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed integer programming model, which covers the main operational constraints in a container terminal, is formulated to solve the quay crane scheduling problem (QCSP) with a novel objective.

Findings

A case study is presented and a number of numerical experiments are conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed model. Meanwhile, management insights are proposed. The results demonstrate that the proposed method can efficiently solve QCSP in a container terminal, and an interesting finding is that reducing the stack layers on the vessel can improve the operation efficiency of QC.

Originality/value

A new mathematical model is proposed for QC scheduling at the operational level, which considers the constraints of double-cycling strategy, multiple hatches and hatch covers. The proposed model also provides methods to research the QC double-cycling problem considering the balance between energy cost and operation efficiency.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 120 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 February 2018

Xiao-qiang Jiao, Gang He, Zhen-ling Cui, Jian-bo Shen and Fu-suo Zhang

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the historical pattern of environmental cost due to grain production in China and to provide further implications of technologies and…

1330

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the historical pattern of environmental cost due to grain production in China and to provide further implications of technologies and policies for the transformation of China’s agricultural development toward sustainable intensification.

Design/methodology/approach

The data sets about grain production, arable land and chemical fertilizer use in China were collected from FAO, NBSC, and IFA. Greenhouse gas emissions were estimated using life cycle assessments. The policies concerning grain production and the environment were collected from the Ministry of Agriculture, and the State Council of China.

Findings

China has produced enough food to feed its growing population, but has neglected the resource-environmental costs of grain production since 1978. Consequently, China’s grain production is always accompanied with a high cost of resource and environment sustainability. However, from 2006 to 2015, the growth rate of grain production has surpassed that of chemical fertilizer consumption, resulting in improvement in nutrient use efficiency and decreasing trends of environmental cost for grain production. This could be partially attributed to technology innovations, such as Soil-Testing and Fertilizer-Recommendations (STFR), soil quality and crop management improvement, and so on, and policy supports (policies of STFR, soil quality improvement, and high-yield construction). This indicated that China’s grain production is starting to transform from high-input and high-output model to “less for more.”

Originality/value

This study is the first to determine the detailed, historical role of technological innovation and agri-environmental policy on the sustainability of grain production in China. The findings should have significant implications for technology and policy for the transformation of China’s agriculture development to sustainable intensification.

Details

China Agricultural Economic Review, vol. 10 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-137X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 July 2014

Wei Zhen Wang, Yan Wang, Shu Lian Yu, Lin Sun, Jing Liu and Xiu Min Wei

In view of high consumption situation of raw materials in the apparel industry due to unique and diversified style, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the application of…

Abstract

Purpose

In view of high consumption situation of raw materials in the apparel industry due to unique and diversified style, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the application of pattern transformation between clothing and tent, explore the feasibility of extending multi-functional product and provide experimental demonstration for realizing 5R (Reduce, Reevaluate, Reuse, Recycle, Rescue) design goal of garment product.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the results of market research, in order to make single product have the functions of both outdoor couple clothing and simple tent, the planar patterns of clothing and tent are compared and transformed to make them compatible with each other, then the removable multi-functional design and technique processing are adopted.

Findings

It was found that outdoor clothing and tent with similar application occasions and raw materials could realize the assumption of multi-functional product. Their combination has the functions of both clothing and tent by wearing and assembling.

Originality/value

By means of this transformation design, the diversification and enjoyment of garment styles and functions can be realized. This helps to improve the energy efficiency of raw materials and accessories by increasing the frequency of product reuse and sharing. In addition, the enjoyment design of products also helps to lead and promote ecological consumption.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 26 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 May 2010

Yu Liu, Jing Zhao, Shu‐Jun Chen and Zhen‐Yang Lu

The purpose of this paper is to develop a portable all‐position welding robot for the welding of intersected pipes.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a portable all‐position welding robot for the welding of intersected pipes.

Design/methodology/approach

A complete procedure is adopted to conduct the design. The task and motion of the robot are analyzed and a mathematical description of the pose and position of the welding tool is given. Based on that, three representative types of robot are chosen in the type synthesis of mechanism. Two new indices proposed to evaluate required properties of the robot, along with the traditional dexterity index, are chosen to be the criteria in the dimension synthesis of mechanism. Through the optimization by genetic algorithm, the best robot in type and dimension is determined after comparison on their performances. Finally, the prototype is developed.

Findings

The paper finds a new robot for welding intersected pipes.

Originality/value

A new robot is introduced for the welding of intersected pipes. A complete design procedure is adopted to conduct the design. Two new indices are constructed for evaluating the required properties of this robot.

Details

Industrial Robot: An International Journal, vol. 37 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 April 2020

Yan Zhang, Xiaoqiong You, Wenke Wang and Ting Lin

National student loans help solve the problem of tuition fees for students from poor families to a great extent. This paper aims to study the behavior of three main players…

Abstract

Purpose

National student loans help solve the problem of tuition fees for students from poor families to a great extent. This paper aims to study the behavior of three main players involved in university student loans, namely, universities, banks and students and explores necessary conditions for promoting the steady development of student loans, as well as the sustainability of cooperation and coordination among players, thus promoting the further development of student loans.

Design/methodology/approach

First, from the perspectives of the three related players of banks, students and universities and their behavior, this paper establishes a three-player behavioral evolutionary game model, conducts a sustainable game analysis among the different players, and by replicating the dynamic equations with the Jacobian matrix solve the evolutionarily stable strategy. Finally, applying MATLAB tools, a sensitivity analysis of relevant impacting factors is carried out to explore the influencing mechanism of the sustainable development of student loans.

Findings

To achieve the mechanism of mutual coordination and cooperation between participants, banks need to be guided to actively issue student loans and conduct strict loan review. College students should be encouraged to establish good credit and strengthen penalties should be implemented for violations of regulations. Universities should be encouraged to help banks reduce information asymmetry, promote financial knowledge and student integrity education and promote the sustainable development of national student loans.

Originality/value

This research will help scholars better understand the interaction mechanism among universities, banks and students, and promote the sustainable development of national student loans.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 22 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 April 2023

Lan Wei, Yanbo Zhang and Jinan Jia

The absence of government intervention and market supervision cannot effectively promote green process innovation in manufacturing industries. As a new government regulation…

Abstract

Purpose

The absence of government intervention and market supervision cannot effectively promote green process innovation in manufacturing industries. As a new government regulation approach, environmental taxes provide a platform to internalize the externality of environmental pollution. This paper empirically investigates the impact of environmental taxes on green process innovation and the moderating effects of industry pollution heterogeneity and green credit.

Design/methodology/approach

This research collects manufacturing industry data ranging from 2008 to 2020, resulting in a total of 351 observations. Time-individual, two-way fixed effect models are constructed to examine the hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicate environmental taxes have an inverted-U effect on green process innovation in manufacturing industries. Implementation intensity of the current environmental taxes on China's manufacturing industries does not reach an inflection point. Further analysis suggests that environmental taxes exert influence on the inverted-U relationship with low-pollution industries displaying a steeper curvilinear pattern than high-pollution industries. Moreover, the analysis shows that green credit plays a moderating role in the inverted-U relationship, as low green credit provides more limited stimulus than high green credit in terms of the effect of environmental taxes on green process innovation.

Research limitations/implications

This study offers empirical evidence to accommodate negative externalities of corporate production and provides new perspectives in nudging corporate green-process innovation.

Originality/value

This paper verifies the effect of environmental taxes on green process innovation amid industry pollution heterogeneity by introducing an industrial-level analysis unit. This study improves the means by which environmental taxes are measured. Existing literature has narrowly used pollution discharge fees as a proxy for environmental taxes. The authors have summed up the taxes on vehicle and vessels, urban land use, urban maintenance and construction, vehicle purchases, waste gas, wastewater and solid waste to measure the effect of environmental taxes in this study.

Details

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 34 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-038X

Keywords

1 – 10 of 177