bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-time diffraction computed tomography data reduction
Authors: Kieffer J. , Petitdemange S. , Vincent T.
Published: February 2018

Diffraction imaging is an X-ray imaging method which uses the crystallinity information (cell parameter, orientation) as a signal to create an image pixel by pixel: a pencil beam is raster-scanned onto a sample and the (powder) diffraction signal is recorded by a large area detector. With the flux provided by third-generation synchrotrons and the speed of hybrid pixel detectors, the acquisition speed of these experiments is now limited by the transfer rate to the local storage as the data reduction can hardly be performed in real time. This contribution presents the benchmarking of a typical data analysis pipeline for a diffraction imaging experiment like the ones performed at ESRF ID15a and proposes some disruptive techniques to decode CIF binary format images using the computational power of graphics cards to be able to perform data reduction in real time.
miXAFS: a program for X-ray absorption fine-structure data analysis
Authors: Ikemoto H.
Published: February 2018

A new program calledmiXAFSfor the analysis of X-ray absorption fine-structure (XAFS) data is presented.miXAFScan analyze the XAFS functions simultaneously for all measured X-ray absorption edges of the constituent elements in a sample under the constraints for the structural parameters over the edges. The program provides a surface plot of theR-factor as a function of two structural parameters, which is useful to validate the optimized structural parameters. The structural parameters can be obtained from the XAFS data in a few steps using the setting file and batch process. The program, which is coded in MATLAB and freely available, runs on Macintosh and Windows operating systems. It has a graphical user interface and loads experimental data and XAFS functions in a variety of ASCII data formats.
Two CuIIcomplexes of 3,4,5-trimethyl-1H-pyrazole
Authors: Vincent Collin J. , Giles Ian D. , Deschamps Jeffrey R.
Published: February 2018

The crystal structure of complexes of 3,4,5-trimethyl-1H-pyrazole with CuCl2·2H2O and Cu(NO3)2·2.5H2O are presented, namely di-μ-chlorido-bis[chloridobis(3,4,5-trimethyl-1H-pyrazole-κN2)copper(II)], [Cu2Cl4(C6H10N2)4] (1) and aquatetrakis(3,4,5-trimethyl-1H-pyrazole-κN2)copper(II) dinitrate, [Cu(C6H10N2)4(H2O)](NO3)2(2), and compared to the previously determined structures for 3-methyl-1H-pyrazole and 3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazole. CuCl2forms a 2:1 ligand-to-metal chloride-bridged complex with 3,4,5-trimethyl-1H-pyrazole, with a square-pyramidal coordination geometry about each copper(II) center. Similarly to the previously obtained 3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazole complex with CuCl2, the pyrazole ligands arecisto each other, with two chloride ions bridging the two copper(II) centers, and a terminal chloride ion occupying the axial position. Cu(NO3)2forms a 4:1 ligand-to-metal complex with 3,4,5-trimethyl-1H-pyrazole that is also arranged in a square-pyramidal geometry about CuII. The newly obtained copper(II) complex has the same coordination geometry as the 3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazole complex, including an axial water molecule, two nitrate ions hydrogen-bonded to the water molecule, and four pyrazole ligands in the equatorial plane, suggesting that similar steric forces are at play in the formation of these complexes.
Information vs knowledge
Authors: Du Rietz Sabina
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer a new and more elaborate view of the relationship between information and knowledge in accountability settings.

Design/methodology/approach

The study investigates how knowledge is accomplished when accountability is demanded. The “knowing-in-practice” perspective (Lave, 1988; Orlikowski, 2002; Pentland, 1992) is introduced to theorise knowledge as the ability to purposefully go on with practice and information as a resource that may contribute to this knowledge. Empirically, the study investigates Nordic investors’ engagement with companies addressing environmental, social, and governance issues.

Findings

The findings illustrate how information may contribute to knowledge in an accountability setting. Whether or not the information contributes to knowledge in the accountability setting depends on the information’s origin, convergence with other accounts, and use in contradicting and disproving executives’ information. The analysis also shows how knowledge in accountability settings may be achieved without information – for example, by enacting theories.

Research limitations/implications

The study suggests that research should more carefully distinguish between knowledge and information. According to the perspective used here, knowledge is the ability to purposefully go on with practice. Information is one of many resources that can contribute to knowledge.

Practical implications

This study provides insight into the relationship between accounting systems and the practice of demanding accountability. Such understanding is valuable when designing accounts-based governance and civil regulation, such as for addressing sustainability issues, as in this study.

Originality/value

The study challenges the view of knowledge as a representation or factual commodity, and provides a new and more elaborate view of the relationship between information and knowledge in accountability settings by introducing the knowing-in-practice perspective to the accounting literature.
From the Big Five to the Big Four? Exploring extinction accounting for the rhinoceros
Authors: Atkins Jill , Maroun Warren , Atkins Barry Colin , Barone Elisabetta
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore a possible framework for extinction accounting which builds on but also extends significantly the existing GRI guidelines relating to species identified by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Red List as under threat of extinction.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses disclosures relating to rhinoceros conservation and protection produced by top South African-listed companies in order to assess the current state of “extinction accounting”. Following this analysis, the authors explore and discuss a potential framework for extinction accounting which may be used by companies to demonstrate their accountability for species and disclose the ways in which they are working alone, and in partnerships, to prevent species extinction.

Findings

Corporate disclosures relating to rhinoceros may be interpreted as emancipatory. The authors identify several disclosure themes dealing with rhinoceros in integrated and sustainability reports of large South African companies and on their websites. Contrary to initial expectations, there is evidence to suggest corporate awareness of the importance of addressing the risk of this species becoming extinct.

Research limitations/implications

The authors have relied on public corporate disclosures and would like to extend the work further to include interview data for a further paper.

Practical implications

An extinction accounting framework may be applied to corporate accounting and accountability for any species under threat of extinction. The framework may also be considered for use as a tool for institutional investors as well as NGO engagement and dialogue with stakeholder companies.

Social implications

The rhinoceros has, from the analysis, significant cultural, heritage, eco-tourism and intrinsic value. Developing and implementing an emancipatory extinction accounting framework to prevent extinction will have a substantial social and environmental impact.

Originality/value

This is the first attempt to the knowledge to explore accounting for extinction and a possible extinction accounting framework. It is also the first attempt to investigate accounting and accountability for the rhinoceros.
ACSESim: Agile and Lean software development in practice
Authors: Maritz Andries , Hamdulay Fatima
Published: February 2018

Subject area

Agile software development, Knowledge workers and Lean thinking as a management system

Study level/applicability

The case lends itself to students of business management, or aspiring consultants, who have been exposed to operations management in general and Lean thinking specifically. It is an advanced case study, assuming prior knowledge in these subjects and approaches the subject matter from an organisational development point of view, rather than a pure operations point of view. It is thus well suited to an elective on operational excellence on an MBA or in executive education courses in Lean thinking

Case overview

The case starts with Mark, manager of a software development team, hearing that he will have budget for two new developers who will join his team in the coming year. While the extra help could be useful, he was considering what the impact of new people would be on the productivity of the team, which he felt was already stretched. Mark continues to consider the entire development chain and how code changes were implemented to ACSESim’s (the company’s primary product) graphical user interfaces. Having recently been acquired by an American company, he was also under pressure to start to adopt some of the parent company’s systems, which would constitute a fairly disruptive, but necessary, change, particularly for future collaborations with other developers in the parent company. With two new developers, experience taught Mark that development could slow down owing to training efforts. To minimise disruption, he was wondering about how to get the new developers up-to-speed quickly and streamline their operations within a changing corporate environment. The case highlights the different mechanisms that were in place at ACSESim, including the use of issue trackers; Kanban boards; version control software; automated systems; stand-up meetings, etc. Each of these mechanisms is discussed briefly and shows the value they added to the development practices that were in place. This also allows students to understand Agile practices and what Lean thinking might mean in a knowledge work environment and then to consider what the proposed changes might mean and how they could be deployed.

Expected learning outcomes

To gain an understanding of how Lean and Agile principles can be applied in a software development environment and Lean knowledge work in general To consider the best way to manage new hires so that they can become productive in a Lean or Agile software development environment, whilst dealing with pressures to migrate to new systems.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS: 9: Operations and Logistics.
Keeping up with growing complexity of managing global operations
Authors: Ferdows Kasra
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to argue that operations management (OM) scholars ought to be among the thought leaders in research into the design and management of global production networks, but too few of them currently are. It suggests possible reasons for what is holding them back and calls for ideas for removing the obstacles.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a viewpoint. Nevertheless, it reports results of an indicative survey and uses example cases to illustrate and support its arguments.

Findings

The survey confirms the conclusions from previous studies that the number of publications specifically in leading OM journals focusing on management of global operations is small. Relatively high levels of detail and dynamic complexity and hysteresis of variables affecting the management of global operations are identified as the major hurdles. Applying analytical modeling, a popular research methodology among OM scholars, may be of limited use as it mandates making too many simplifying assumptions. Empirical research is also difficult because it is time consuming and requires access to often sensitive data and may require longitudinal studies. These are tough problems with no clear solutions.

Originality/value

The paper urges OM scholars to take on the broad and strategic problems in management of global operations. That would not only change how the OM discipline is viewed, but it would also benefit the firm, the economy, and the society.
Measuring supply chain performance: a lifecycle framework and a case study
Authors: Maestrini Vieri , Luzzini Davide , Caniato Federico , Maccarrone Paolo , Ronchi Stefano
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual framework of the supply chain performance measurement system (SCPMS) lifecycle (highlighting key activities of the design, implementation, use and review phases) and to investigate how the different actors involved in the SCPMS perceive the system and can act to allow for an effective adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

The SCPMS lifecycle framework is developed grounding on performance measurement and supply chain (SC) management literature. To answer the two theory-building research questions, an in-depth case study involving seven firms across three tiers of the mass retail SC has been conducted.

Findings

The empirical evidence highlighted potential SCPMS benefits (including operational performance improvement, higher control, lower information overloading and higher SC integration) and criticalities/barriers to an effective adoption (lack of industry standards, lack of trust regarding data reliability, SCPMS as a tool of power, lack of interest in the system and the performance metrics). Several elements characterizing the SCPMS lifecycle could increase its effective adoption: engaging SC partners in the design phase; relying on a rigorous primary data collection and performance measures calculation; and actively exploiting the tool through a systematic discussion on performance and establishing incentive/disincentives plans.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the conceptualization of SCPMSs and to clarify how to ensure an effective SCPMS adoption: apart from relationship-specific attributes, SCPMS lifecycle phases are suggested to have a key role.
Architectures for multichannel front-office service delivery models
Authors: Sousa Rui , Amorim Marlene
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Multichannel (MC) service providers have been adopting a wide diversity of front-office service delivery models, i.e. different ways of employing channels to support the delivery of the service activities that involve customer interaction. Despite this, we are still faced with a paucity of concepts to understand the myriad of possible choices. The purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretical framework and basic design architectures to provide a structured understanding of the diversity of operational design choices for MC front-office service delivery models, their efficacy implications, and how they fit with the provider’s service strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs the analytical conceptual approach. The authors logically develop the architectures based on the operations management theory and provide corresponding empirical illustrations based on secondary sources, direct observation, and case studies.

Findings

The authors propose two theoretically meaningful dimensions to characterize and distinguish between delivery models (channel redundancy and channel span) and put forward four anchor architectures for such models: generalist, parallel, constricted, and centralized. The authors identify the operational efficacy implications (effectiveness and efficiency) of the different architectures, and develop a set of propositions and design principles for selecting appropriate architectures.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should develop empirical measures for the dimensions underlying the architectures.

Originality/value

The study extends existing service process classifications by capturing the MC traits of front-office processes. The authors offer design principles to assist firms in selecting architectures that are aligned with their service strategy. The framework and architectures provide seminal concepts to support a wealth of future empirical studies.
How does intellectual capital affect product innovation performance? Evidence from China and India
Authors: Zhang Min , Qi Yinan , Wang Zhiqiang , Pawar Kulwant S. , Zhao Xiande
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Intellectual capital reflects the sum of existing knowledge a manufacturer is able to leverage and plays a critical role in new product development. The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate the mechanisms through which intellectual capital enhances product innovation performance and how economic and institutional environments affect the mechanisms.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a knowledge-based view and institutional theory, this study proposes a model on the relationships among intellectual capital, supplier knowledge integration, supply chain adaptability, and product innovation performance. The hypotheses are empirically tested using multiple group structural equation modelling and data collected from 300 Chinese and 200 Indian manufacturers.

Findings

The authors find that intellectual capital improves product innovation performance both directly and indirectly through supplier knowledge integration. However, the effects are different in China and India. In particular, the direct effect of intellectual capital on product innovation performance is significantly higher in China than that in India, and intellectual capital improves product innovation performance indirectly through supplier knowledge integration only in India. The authors also find that supplier knowledge integration improves product innovation performance indirectly through supply chain adaptability in both China and India.

Originality/value

Using a moderated mediation model, this study provides insights into the joint effects of intellectual capital, supplier knowledge integration, and supply chain adaptability on product innovation performance. The findings enhance current understandings of how supply chain management helps a manufacturer develop new products using existing knowledge and the influences of economic and institutional environments on knowledge and supply chain management.
A decision theory perspective on complexity in performance measurement and management
Authors: Alexander Anthony , Kumar Maneesh , Walker Helen
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply the aspects of decision theory (DT) to performance measurement and management (PMM), thereby enabling the theoretical elaboration of volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity in the business environment, which are identified as barriers to effective PMM.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of decision theory and PMM literature establishes the Cynefin framework as the basis for extending the performance alignment matrix. Case research with seven companies explores the relationship between two concepts under-examined in the performance alignment matrix – internal dominant logic (DL) as the attribute of organisational culture affecting decision making, and the external environment – in line with the concept of alignment or fit in PMM. A focus area is PMM related to sustainable operations and sustainable supply chain management.

Findings

Alignment between DL, external environment and PMM is found, as are instances of misalignment. The Cynefin framework offers a deeper theoretical explanation about the nature of this alignment. Other findings consider the nature of organisational ownership on DL.

Research limitations/implications

The cases are exploratory not exhaustive, and limited in number. Organisations showing contested logic were excluded.

Practical implications

Some organisations have cultures of predictability and control; others have cultures that recognise their external environment as fundamentally unpredictable, and hence there is a need for responsive, decentralised PMM. Some have sought to change their culture and PMM. Being attentive to how cultural logic affects decision making can help reduce the misalignment in PMM.

Originality/value

A novel contribution is made by applying decision theory to PMM, extending the theoretical depth of the subject.
Strategy, operations, and profitability: the role of resource orchestration
Authors: Hughes Paul , Hodgkinson Ian Richard , Elliott Karen , Hughes Mathew
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Developing and implementing strategies to maximize profitability is a fundamental challenge facing manufacturers. The complexity of orchestrating resources in practice has been overlooked in the operations field and it is now necessary to go beyond the direct effects of individual resources and uncover different resource configurations that maximize profitability. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on a sample of US manufacturing firms, multiple regression analysis (MRA) and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) are performed to examine the effects of resource orchestration on firm profitability over time. By comparing the findings between analyses, the study represents a move away from examining the net effects of resource levers on performance alone.

Findings

The findings characterize the resource conditions for manufacturers’ high performance, and also for absence of high performance. Pension and retirement expense is a core resource condition with R&D and SG&A as consistent peripheral conditions for profitability. Moreover, although workforce size was found to have a significant negative effect under MRA, this plays a role in manufacturers’ performance as a peripheral resource condition under fsQCA.

Originality/value

Accounting for different resource deployment configurations, this study deepens knowledge of resource orchestration and presents findings that enable manufacturers to maximize profitability. An empirical contribution is offered by the introduction of a new method for examining manufacturing strategy configurations: fsQCA.
A design-thinking perspective on capability development
Authors: Beltagui Ahmad
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the interaction between new product development (NPD) capabilities and business model innovation (BMI) by studying the adaptation of capabilities in a manufacturing firm as it adopts a service business model.

Design/methodology/approach

An in-depth case study is used to identify design capabilities and document how these have been developed as the firm has adapted its NPD processes to the needs of its service business model.

Findings

Design capabilities are proposed as a facilitator of servitization, allowing a manufacturing firm to develop service offerings that build on resources such as knowledge and experience. Conversely, the scope of servitization is restricted by the extent to which these design capabilities can be updated to suit the demands of a new business model.

Practical implications

Servitization is presented as an imperative for manufacturing firms, yet research has not addressed the implications for NPD nor investigated how BMI affects NPD capabilities. This study shows the need to identify whether current NPD processes help or hinder BMI and proposes how managers can adapt NPD processes to a new business model.

Originality/value

A three-stage process is identified for adapting NPD processes – as BMI changes the nature of products and services required, existing processes are supplemented by design activities requiring expert knowledge, these are subsequently refined into design methods that can be incorporated into the NPD process, and eventually design tools allow automation and efficiency.
Examining desorptive capacity in supply chains: the role of organizational ambidexterity
Authors: Roldán Bravo María Isabel , Ruiz-Moreno Antonia , Lloréns Montes Francisco Javier
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain how a buying organization’s desorptive capacity relative to its supply network enhances the organization’s supply chain competence. The research also analyzes the contingent role of the balanced and combined dimensions of ambidexterity in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical results are obtained through analysis of survey data from a sample of 270 European firms. Hierarchical regression analysis is used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results confirm, first, the positive and significant relationship between the buying organization’s desorptive capacity and supply chain competence; and, second, the key moderating role of organizational ambidexterity, especially in its combined dimension, in this relationship.

Practical implications

The study suggests that desorptive capacity is key to the organization’s contribution to supply chain competitiveness. The authors also provide practitioners with better understanding of the extent to which they should attempt to balance exploration and exploitation or/and to maximize both simultaneously when seeking greater benefit from desorptive capacity.

Originality/value

This study extends desorptive capacity research to supply chain management. It responds to calls in the desorptive capacity literature for deeper understanding of the benefits of desorptive capacity and of the role organizational ambidexterity plays in the success of desorptive capacity. By analyzing the independent effects of the combined and balanced dimensions of ambidexterity, the authors advance conceptual and operational understanding of the role of ambidexterity needed in the literature.
The introduction of mandatory inter-municipal cooperation in small municipalities
Authors: Giacomini Davide , Sancino Alessandro , Simonetto Anna
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the effects of mandatory inter-municipal cooperation (IMC) in small Italian municipalities. Data from 280 small Italian municipalities on the effects of IMC in terms of higher efficiency, better effectiveness of local public services, and greater institutional legitimacy of the small municipalities participating in IMC have been investigated against four variables: size, geographical area, type of inter-municipal integration, and IMC membership (the presence in the IMC of a bigger municipality, the so-called big brother).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from a mail survey that was sent to a random sample of 1,360 chief financial officers acting in municipalities of under 5,000 inhabitants, stratified by size (0-1,000 and 1,001-5,000) and geographic area (North, Center, and South) criteria. To analyze the dependency relationships between the three potential effects of participating in IMC and possible explanatory variables, the authors used a logistic regression model as the benefits were binarily categorized (presence or absence of benefits).

Findings

The findings show that in more than two-thirds of the municipalities participating in IMC, there were benefits in terms of costs reduction and better public services, whereas greater institutional legitimacy was detected in about half of the cases. The statistical analysis with logistic regression highlighted that IMC type is particularly critical for explaining successful IMC. In particular, the positive effects of IMC were mainly detected in those small municipalities that promoted a service delivery organization rather than participating in service delivery agreements or opting for mixed arrangements of joint public services delivery.

Originality/value

The paper focuses on small municipalities where studies are usually scant. The analysis highlighted that the organizational setting is particularly critical for explaining a successful IMC.
Rationality, accounting and benchmarking water businesses
Authors: Pawsey Nicholas , Ananda Jayanath , Hoque Zahirul
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the sensitivity of economic efficiency rankings of water businesses to the choice of alternative physical and accounting capital input measures.

Design/methodology/approach

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) was used to compute efficiency rankings for government-owned water businesses from the state of Victoria, Australia, over the period 2005/2006 through 2012/2013. Differences between DEA models when capital inputs were measured using either: statutory accounting values (historic cost and fair value), physical measures, or regulatory accounting values, were scrutinised.

Findings

Depending on the choice of capital input, significant variation in efficiency scores and the ranking of the top (worst) performing firms was observed.

Research limitations/implications

Future research may explore the generalisability of findings to a wider sample of water utilities globally. Future work can also consider the most reliable treatment of capital inputs in efficiency analysis.

Practical implications

Regulators should be cautious when using economic efficiency data in benchmarking exercises. A consistent approach to account for the capital stock is needed in the determination of price caps and designing incentives for poor performers.

Originality/value

DEA has been widely used to explore the role of ownership structure, firm size and regulation on water utility efficiency. This is the first study of its kind to explore the sensitivity of DEA to alternative physical and accounting capital input measures. This research also improves the conventional performance measurement in water utilities by using a bootstrap procedure to address the deterministic nature of the DEA approach.
Research on the leakage of continuous rotary electro-hydraulic servo motor based on fluid structure interaction analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaojing , Man Guojia , Zhang Mengjian
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Internal leakage is one of the key factors that influence the super-low speed performance of continuous rotary electro-hydraulic servo motor. Therefore, this paper aims to study the change rule of internal leakage for improving the low speed performance of motor.

Design/methodology/approach

The mathematical models of internal leakage of continuous rotary electro-hydraulic servo motor were established, and according to the working principle of the motor, the 3D models of internal leakage location were established. Simulation analysis was implemented on the continuous rotary electro-hydraulic servo motor by the finite element analysis software ANSYS based on the fluid-structure interaction theory.

Findings

The results show the deformation of motor’s key parts and the changing rule of internal leakage. The effect of the leakage to the low speed performance of electro-hydraulic servo motor was analyzed, and at the same time, the motor’s leakage experiment was also conducted to verify the validity of simulation results.

Originality/value

This paper lays the foundation for improving the low speed performance of motor.
Synthesis and tribological properties of nanogrease
Authors: Mohamed Alaa , Hamdy Mohamed , Bayoumi Mohamed , Osman Tarek
Published: February 2018

Purpose

To enhance the tribological properties of nanogrease, one of the new technologies was used to synthesize a nanogrease having carbon nanotubes (CNTs) nanoparticles (NPs) with different concentrations. The microstructures of the synthesized NPs were characterized and evaluated by x-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Tribological properties of the nanogrease were evaluated using a four-ball tester. The worn surface of four steel balls was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX).

Design/methodology/approach

Grease was dissolved in chloroform (10 Wt.%), at 25 °C for 1 h. In parallel, functionalized CNTs with different volume concentrations (0.5, 1, 2 and 3 Wt.%) were dispersed in N, N-dimethylformamide. The mixture was stirred for 15 min and then sonicated (40 kHz, 150 W) for 30 min. After that, the mixture was added to the grease solution and magnetically stirred for 15 min and then sonicated for 2 h.

Findings

The results suggested that CNTs can enhance the antiwear and friction properties of nanogrease at 0.5 Wt.% CNTs to about 57 and 48 per cent, respectively. In addition, the weld load of the base oil containing 0.5 Wt.% CNTs was improved by 17 per cent compared with base grease.

Originality/value

This work describes the inexpensive and simple fabrication of nanogrease for improving the properties of lubricants, which improve power efficiency and extend lifetimes of mechanical equipment.
Detecting lubricating oil components through a new clustering method based on sample data
Authors: Wang Guijun , Zhang Guoying
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to overcome the defect that the traditional clustering method is excessively dependent on initial clustering radius and also provide new technical measures for detecting the component content of lubricating oil based on the fuzzy neural system model.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the layers model of the fuzzy neural system model for the given sample data pair, the new clustering method can be implemented, and through the fuzzy system model, the detection method for the selected oil samples is given. By applying this method, the composition contents of 30 kinds of oil samples in lubricating oil are checked, and the actual composition contents of oil samples are compared.

Findings

Through the detection of 21 mineral elements in 30 oil samples, it can be known that the four mineral elements such as Zn, P, Ca and Mg have largest contribution rate to the lubricating oil, and they can be regarded as the main factors for classification of lubricating oil. The results show that the fuzzy system to be established based on sample data clustering has better performance in detection lubricant component content.

Originality/value

In spite of lots of methods for detecting the component of lubricating oil at the present, there is still no detection of the component of lubricating oil through clustering method based on sample data pair. The new nearest clustering method is proposed in this paper, and it can be more effectively used to detect the content of lubricating oil.
Tribology assessment of surface-contact sliding pairs with streak defect under dynamic harmonic excitation loading
Authors: Yuan Wei , Dong Guangneng , Chin Kwai Sang , Hua Meng , Guo Qianjian
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Streak defect and dynamic harmonic excitation (DHE) loading play important roles in machine operating conditions. The purpose of this paper was to assess the effects of streak defect and DHE loading on the tribological properties of surface-contact friction pairs, for example the differential gear end-face on the washer, via experimental investigation.

Design/methodology/approach

Streak defect was artificially introduced into the washer surface, which was loaded with DHE loads produced by a spring-connecting weight system. The wear scar of the washers and the monitored friction force signals were respectively scanned using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and analyzed using wavelet simulation.

Findings

The friction force curves, SEM images and discrete wavelet transform results indicate that DHE loading tends to increase friction force, to accelerate plowing damages and result in side-flow of material and plastic deformation on the surfaces of the washer. Whereas, streak oil-channel textures on washer specimen can be machined to modify the lubrication condition in the running-in stage so as to improve the tribological properties of the sliding pairs which were even subjected to DHE loading.

Originality/value

On the basis of this thesis research, the effect of streak defect and DHE loading on tribological performance of surface-contact sliding pairs is discussed. The results of wear form and friction state with the effect of streak defect and DHE loading facilitate to optimize the operating condition of mechanical parts.
What makes users willing or hesitant to use Fintech?: the moderating effect of user type
Authors: Ryu Hyun-Sun
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to better understand why people are willing or hesitant to use Financial technology (Fintech) as well as to determine whether the effect of perceived benefits and risks of continuance intention differs depending on user types.

Design/methodology/approach

Original data were collected via a survey of 243 participants with Fintech usage experience. The partial least squares method was used to test the proposed model.

Findings

The results reveal that legal risk had the most negative effect on the Fintech continuance intention, while convenience had the strongest positive effect. Differences in specific benefit and risk impacts are found between early and late adopters.

Originality/value

This empirical study contributes to the novel understanding of the benefit and risk factors affecting the Fintech continuance intention.
Market orientation and export performance: the moderation of channel and institutional distance
Authors: He Xinming , Brouthers Keith D. , Filatotchev Igor
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Market orientation (MO) has been shown to provide a valuable resource-based advantage in domestic markets. How internationalizing firms from emerging markets can benefit from this capability is more complex while facing institutional distance. The purpose of this paper is to develop and test a theory to suggest that although MO capabilities can enhance export performance, the structure where they are deployed, namely the export channel a firm uses and the market in terms of institutional distance from home, can affect the benefits derived from MO.

Design/methodology/approach

With a sample of Chinese exporters and data collected via questionnaire survey, this research uses a multiple regression model to test the hypotheses.

Findings

It finds that firms with stronger MO capabilities can improve export performance by using hierarchical channels and by exporting to more institutionally distant markets where MO provides greater value.

Originality/value

This research claims to make several important contributions to the literature by providing a better understanding of how firms can successfully deploy MO capabilities when exporting.
Corporate governance and management earnings forecast behaviour
Authors: Chapple Larelle , Dunstan Keitha , Truong Thu Phuong
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of our study is to examine the influence of three external corporate governance mechanisms (continuous disclosure regulatory reform, analyst following and ownership concentration) and one internal corporate governance mechanism (board structure) on the likelihood, frequency, horizon, precision and accuracy of management earnings forecasts in the low private litigation environment of New Zealand.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a sample of 1,082 management earnings forecasts issued by 125 firms listed on the New Zealand Exchange during the 1998-2007 financial reporting periods. The authors effectively control the self-selection bias problem inherent in management earnings forecasts.

Findings

The findings provide strong evidence that corporate governance significantly influences management earnings forecast behaviour. Firms with effective corporate governance tend to forecast earnings and provide these earnings forecasts more frequently and precisely. Earnings forecasts issued by firms with more non-executive directors on the board are less optimistically biased. A possible interpretation of the findings is that effective corporate governance mechanisms are able to substitute for a private enforcement alternative.

Originality/value

The findings have value in informing governance choices in the absence of external disciplinary mechanisms such as private litigation.
Risks/rewards and an evolving business model
Authors: Crick Dave , Chaudhry Shiv , Crick James M.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the need for an evolving business model that accounts for social, as well as business-related risks/rewards considerations, that is, for owner-managers with lifestyle as opposed to growth-oriented objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological approach undertaken involved in-depth interviews with the firm’s owner-managers, supplemental interviews with members of staff, observation, plus examining documents from secondary sources. Data gathering involved a period of three years to account for an evolving business model over time.

Findings

The findings from an instrumental case study demonstrate the need to adapt a firm’s business model in the light of changing circumstances. Additionally, in the context of owner-managers with lifestyle as opposed to growth-oriented objectives, to account for social in addition to business-related considerations in planning activities.

Originality/value

The originality of the study is to incorporate a longitudinal case study in to the entrepreneurial marketing literature. Specifically, this offers implications for business support organisations that advise prospective owner-managers; that is, in respect of the need for effective planning in formulating an evolving and enduring business model. Implications also highlight in a business sense, that turnaround of a poorly performing firm may be possible, for example, to overcome initial inadequate marketing planning. However, for owner-managers with lifestyle as opposed to growth-oriented objectives, a combination of both business and social factors need consideration to maintain a work/life balance. A venture that relies on personal and business relationships may not be viable if the partners cannot work together, no matter if the venture is performing well.
Participation of adults with learning disabilities in the 2015 UK General Election
Authors: James Elaine , Harvey Mark , Hatton Chris
Published: February 2018

Purpose

People with learning disabilities may experience discrimination which prevents them from exercising choice and control over their right to participate in democratic processes. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking data collected by social workers during a campaign from the 2015 UK General Election, this paper analyses the variables associated with higher rates of democratic participation by people with learning disabilities.

Findings

The present authors undertook secondary analysis on data collected by social workers supporting adults with learning disabilities who were living in community housing units. In total, 1,019 people with learning disabilities who were living in 124 community housing units in one English county gave consent to participate. In total, 84 per cent were registered to vote and 26 per cent cast a vote on polling day. People were significantly more likely to cast a vote if they lived in a housing unit where they understood their rights (Wald χ2 =4.896, p=0.027).

Practical implications

The analyses are consistent with the hypothesis that supporting people with learning disabilities to understand their right to participate in elections increases the likelihood they will cast a vote on a polling day. There are practical implications from this finding for commissioning practices, support planning, and education of health and social care practitioners.

Originality/value

This is the first study of this size which examines data from people with learning disabilities on their experience of democratic participation and the role of social work.
Nearby Lagrangian fibers and Whitney sphere links
Authors: Ekholm Tobias , Smith Ivan
Published: February 2018

Let $n>3$, and let $L$ be a Lagrangian embedding of $\mathbb{R}^{n}$ into the cotangent bundle $T^{\ast }\mathbb{R}^{n}$ of $\mathbb{R}^{n}$ that agrees with the cotangent fiber $T_{x}^{\ast }\mathbb{R}^{n}$ over a point $x\neq 0$ outside a compact set. Assume that $L$ is disjoint from the cotangent fiber at the origin. The projection of $L$ to the base extends to a map of the $n$-sphere $S^{n}$ into $\mathbb{R}^{n}\setminus \{0\}$. We show that this map is homotopically trivial, answering a question of Eliashberg. We give a number of generalizations of this result, including homotopical constraints on embedded Lagrangian disks in the complement of another Lagrangian submanifold, and on two-component links of immersed Lagrangian spheres with one double point in $T^{\ast }\mathbb{R}^{n}$, under suitable dimension and Maslov index hypotheses. The proofs combine techniques from Ekholm and Smith [Exact Lagrangian immersions with a single double point, J. Amer. Math. Soc. 29 (2016), 1–59] and Ekholm and Smith [Exact Lagrangian immersions with one double point revisited, Math. Ann. 358 (2014), 195–240] with symplectic field theory.
Effect of postannealing on properties of ZnO-SnO2 thin film transistors
Authors: Satoh Kazuo , Murakami Shuichi , Kanaoka Yusuke , Yamada Yoshiharu , Kakehi Yoshiharu , Sakurai Yoshiaki
Published: February 2018

Herein, the influence of postannealing on the properties of ZnO-SnO2 (ZTO) thin-film transistors (TFTs) was investigated. Postannealing in ambient air induced recovery of the electrical properties of wet-etch-damaged TFTs and a decrease in the subthreshold swing. Also, the field effect mobility increased with increasing postannealing temperature. Further improvement of the electrical properties of ZTO TFTs was not obtained with a further increase in annealing time. After postannealing at 200 °C for 60 min in the air, the ZTO TFTs exhibited a field effect mobility of about 10 cm2/V s.
Little bits of diamond: Optically detected magnetic resonance of nitrogen-vacancy centers
Authors: Zhang Haimei , Belvin Carina , Li Wanyi , Wang Jennifer , Wainwright Julia , Berg Robbie , Bridger Joshua
Published: February 2018

We give instructions for the construction and operation of a simple apparatus for performing optically detected magnetic resonance measurements on diamond samples containing high concentrations of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers. Each NV center has a spin degree of freedom that can be manipulated and monitored by a combination of visible and microwave radiation. We observe Zeeman shifts in the presence of small external magnetic fields and describe a simple method to optically measure magnetic field strengths with a spatial resolution of several microns. The activities described are suitable for use in an advanced undergraduate lab course, powerfully connecting core quantum concepts to cutting edge applications. An even simpler setup, appropriate for use in more introductory settings, is also presented.
Talker identification: Effects of masking, hearing loss, and age
Authors: Best Virginia , Ahlstrom Jayne B. , Mason Christine R. , Roverud Elin , Perrachione Tyler K. , Kidd Gerald , Dubno Judy R.
Published: February 2018

The ability to identify who is talking is an important aspect of communication in social situations and, while empirical data are limited, it is possible that a disruption to this ability contributes to the difficulties experienced by listeners with hearing loss. In this study, talker identification was examined under both quiet and masked conditions. Subjects were grouped by hearing status (normal hearing/sensorineural hearing loss) and age (younger/older adults). Listeners first learned to identify the voices of four same-sex talkers in quiet, and then talker identification was assessed (1) in quiet, (2) in speech-shaped, steady-state noise, and (3) in the presence of a single, unfamiliar same-sex talker. Both younger and older adults with hearing loss, as well as older adults with normal hearing, generally performed more poorly than younger adults with normal hearing, although large individual differences were observed in all conditions. Regression analyses indicated that both age and hearing loss were predictors of performance in quiet, and there was some evidence for an additional contribution of hearing loss in the presence of masking. These findings suggest that both hearing loss and age may affect the ability to identify talkers in “cocktail party” situations.
A weight limit emerges for neutron stars
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: February 2018

Merger reveals mass at which the cosmos's densest objects collapse into black holes.