bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The willingness of undergraduate students to volunteer for NGO work: a Ghanaian case study
Authors: Okorley Ernest L. , Owusu Alberta A. , Akuamoah-Boateng Samuel 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
Despite the increasing awareness on students’ volunteerism globally, and its potential benefit to national development, there is limited research information on the subject in developing countries including Ghana. The purpose of this paper is to assess the willingness of university undergraduate students in Ghana to volunteer for non-governmental organisation (NGO) work.

Design/methodology/approach
The research used a quantitative research approach using a descriptive survey design. The data were drawn from a survey of 678 students from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana.

Findings
The study shows high willingness of university undergraduate students to volunteer for NGO work. The motives relate more to students’ search for understanding of people and their context, values and career enhancement, than for their social, protection and recognition needs. The students are more likely to engage in NGO activities relating to peer education, counselling and environmental protection, than in administrative duties, relief and advocacy.

Practical implications
The study suggests that there is a great potential for students’ volunteerism in Ghana, and recommends that Ghanaian universities should integrate volunteerism into their curricula to prepare and link students to volunteer opportunities in NGO and the service sectors.

Originality/value
The case study provides new thought and suggestions on students’ volunteerism to developing countries and Ghana in particular. The evidence and context of likelihood to volunteer among tertiary students are lessons for developing countries with similar context to Ghana.
Ballistic-penetration resistance and flexural-stiffness optimization of a nacre-mimetic, B4C-reinforced, polyurea-matrix composite armor
Authors: Grujicic Mica , Snipes Jennifer , Ramaswami S. 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to model a nacre-like composite material, consisting of tablets and polyurea tablet/tablet interfaces, B4C. This composite material is being considered in the construction of the so-called backing-plate, a layer within a multi-functional/multi-layer armor system.

Design/methodology/approach
Considering the basic functions of the backing-plate (i.e. to provide structural support for the ceramic-strike-face and to stop a high-velocity projectile and the accompanying fragments) in such an armor system, the composite-material architecture is optimized with respect to simultaneously achieving high flexural stiffness and high ballistic-penetration resistance. Flexural stiffness and penetration resistance, for a given architecture of the nacre-like composite material, are assessed using a series of transient non-linear dynamics finite-element analyses. The suitability of the optimized composite material for use in backing-plate applications is then evaluated by comparing its performance against that of the rolled homogeneous armor (RHA), a common choice for the backing-plate material.

Findings
The results obtained established: a trade-off between the requirements for a high flexural stiffness and a high ballistic-penetration resistance in the nacre-like composite material; and overall superiority of the subject composite material over the RHA when used in the construction of the backing-plate within multi-functional/multi-layer armor systems.

Originality/value
This study extends the authors previous research on nacre-mimetic armor to optimize the architecture of the armor with respect to its flexural stiffness and ballistic-penetration resistance, so that these properties could be increased over the levels attained in the current choice (RHA) for the backing layer of multi-functional/multi-layer armor.
Experimental study on thermal effect of tilted roller pairs in rolling/sliding contacts
Authors: Zhang Wenjing , Chen Wei , Liu Zhe 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
The aim of this study is to understand thermal effects and surface topography of roller bearings with misaligned load under combination of multifactors by an experimental method.

Design/methodology/approach
A series of orthogonal experiments would need to be planned and performed. A ranking of impact degree of factors on edge effect and eccentric load effect can be learned with multivariate analysis of variance by Statistical Product and Service Solutions software. Influence rules of each individual factor can also be obtained through more experiments. A roller surface phase diagram both before and after test can be observed with metallographic microscope. An axial profile data of roller can be measured by PGI 3D Profiler, then a roller generatrix contour can be achieved through filtering measured signal with empirical mode decomposition method.

Findings
Slip fraction has most impact on edge effect, whereas tilting angle plays a key role in eccentric load effect. For the case of low temperature, skidding damage does not occur. Inversely, because of the high pressure in partial elastohydrodynamic lubrication caused by roller tilt, running-in occurs and micro asperity flattening is observed on a rough surface. And, the larger the tilting angle, the more obvious the micro-flattening and the greater the reduction of roller surface roughness after the test.

Originality/value
A lot of theoretical studies on thermal effect of roller bearings surface morphology have been published. However, there are little on relevant experimental study, especially on thermal effect with an integration of sliding, tilting and unbalance loading.
High-stress abrasive wear behavior of Al–Mg–Si hybrid composites using regression analysis
Authors: Kaushik N.C. , Rao R.N. 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
The purpose of the present study is to analyze the wear behavior of developed aluminum hybrid composites under high-stress conditions through developed power law and quadratic equations.

Design/methodology/approach
The abrasive wear behavior of Al–Mg–Si (Al 6082) alloy reinforced with hard silicon carbide (SiC) and soft graphite (Gr) particulates fabricated by stir casting route was studied at loads of 5-15 N, sliding distance of 75 m and abrasive grit size of 100-200 μm. The power law and quadratic equations were developed to understand the wear behavior with respect to the load applied and the abrasive grit size. The worn surfaces of the test specimens and grit papers were examined under scanning electron microscope.

Findings
The density and hardness of the hybrid composites decreased when compared to Al–SiC composites, whereas the wear properties improved because of the presence of Gr. There was further improvement in the wear properties of the materials because of T6 heat treatment. The change in abrasive wear mechanism was observed at a grit size of 125 μm when traversed from alloy to hybrid composite as indicated in terms of exponents in the power law equation. The worn surfaces of hybrid composite pins were comparable with those of alloy pins.

Practical implications
In the automobile sector, components like cylinder liner, piston, crankshafts, brake drums, etc. also undergo abrasive wear along with sliding against the counter surface in working conditions.

Originality/value
The results prove that better wear resistance was obtained under the abrasion condition.
Tribology of Ge thin films on stainless steel
Authors: Krabac Lubomir , Pejaković Vladimir , Drinek Vladislav , Dörr Nicole , Badisch Ewald 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to study the friction and wear behavior of germanium (Ge) thin films deposited by low-pressure chemical vapor deposition method on a chromium (Cr)-nickel (Ni) stainless steel substrate after being exposed to relatively mild sliding conditions (low loads and sliding distances).

Design/methodology/approach
Wear and friction experiments were conducted with a 100Cr6 steel ball sliding against flat Ge thin-film-coated stainless steel sheets (ball-on-flat microtribometer, no lubricant, normal loads of 50-100 mN, initial Hertzian contact pressures of 385-485 MPa, total sliding distance up to 200 mm and room temperature).

Findings
Scanning electron microscopy results revealed that prepared Ge thin films consisted of two different morphologies: curved nanowires and cone-shaped nano-/microdroplets. Regarding friction and wear characteristics of the investigated samples, the substrates coated with Ge thin films did not affect the coefficient of friction significantly by load. The wear of the base material (Cr-Ni stainless steel) was not observed under the mentioned experimental conditions (see the “Design/methodology/approach” section); however, with increased sliding distance and/or applied load, a rupture of the Ge film and an exposure of the stainless steel substrate to the 100Cr6 ball can be expected. Furthermore, the observations suggest that the smearing of Ge nano- and microstructures, plastically deformed during tribotesting, over the surface exposed to the sliding contact is the dominant tribological process.

Originality/value
For the first time, the tribological interaction between Ge thin film and steel surface was investigated under dry sliding conditions using a ball-on-flat microtribometer, and the obtained results provide a useful base for the further research on tribology of Ge-based thin films.
Wear and corrosion characteristics of copper-based composite coatings
Authors: Calli Cagdas , Tazegul Onur , Kayali Eyup Sabri 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of reinforcing particles (B4C, TiB2 and TiC) on the physical, corrosion and wear behaviour of copper matrix composite coatings.

Design/methodology/approach
Coatings were produced by cold gas dynamic spraying process, and the contribution of reinforcements (B4C, TiB2 and TiC) to the coating characteristics was detected through microstructural examinations (scanning electron microscope examinations and X-ray diffraction analyses), hardness and electrical conductivity measurements, corrosion tests in Cl− environment with potentiostat/galvonostat apparatus and wear tests which were performed under dry conditions by reciprocating wear tester.

Findings
Coatings with high density, good bonding at the coating and substrate interface were obtained by cold gas dynamic spray process. The electrochemical polarisation test in a Cl− environment clearly indicated that the type of reinforcing particles did not significantly affect the corrosion performances of pure copper coating. In terms of the wear performances of the coatings, the best wear performance has been obtained for pure copper coating. Wear performance reduction of the composite coatings was related to the inhibition of continuous oxide layer formation on the worn surfaces due to third-body abrasion mechanism and delamination of oxide layer during wear tests.

Originality/value
Contrary to expectations, wear tests results of the study revealed the inverse effect of ceramic particle addition to the copper matrix in cold spray coating applications due to poor bonding between matrix and reinforcing particles.
Creating relationship continuity across projects in the construction industry
Authors: Havenvid Malena Ingemansson , Holmen Elsebeth , Linné Åse , Pedersen Ann-Charlott 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship continuity across projects among actors in the construction industry, and to discuss why and how such continuity takes place.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors draw on the results from four in-depth case studies illustrating different strategies for pursuing relationship continuity. The results are analysed and discussed in light of the oft-mentioned strategies suggested by Mintzberg (1987): emergent, deliberate and deliberately emergent strategies. Furthermore, the ARA-model is used to discuss why the relationship continuity strategies are pursued, and which factors might enable and constrain the relationship continuity.

Findings
The main findings are twofold. First, the authors found that the strategy applied for pursuing relationship continuity may, in one-time period, contain one type of strategy or a mix of strategy types. Second, the type of strategy may evolve over time, from one type of strategy being more pronounced in one period, to other strategies being more pronounced in later periods. The strategies applied by construction firms and their counterparts can thus contain elements of emergent, deliberate and deliberately emergent strategies, in varying degrees over time. It is also shown that the strategies of the involved actors co-evolve as a result of interaction. Also, the main reasons for pursuing continuity appear to lie in the re-use and development of important resources and activities across projects to create efficiency and the possibility to develop mutual orientation, commitment and trust over time, and thus reduce uncertainty.

Research limitations/implications
Further empirical studies are needed to support the findings. For managers, the main implication is that relationship continuity can arise as part of an emerging interaction pattern between firms or as part of a planned strategy, but that elements of both might be needed to sustain it.

Originality/value
The authors combine Mintzberg’s strategy concepts with the ARA-model to bring new light to the widely debated issue of discontinuity and fragmentation in the construction industry.
Customer-driven supply chains under IMP lens
Authors: Martinelli Elisa Martina , Tunisini Annalisa , Guercini Simone 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
This paper explores the most recent contributions to interpreting customer-driven supply chains (CDSCs) under the IMP lens, focusing on the main characteristics that emerged from a review of the relevant literature. The purpose of this paper is to offer a holistic interpretative framework of major topics covered by the CDSC literature, highlighting both some shared issues and emerging elements using the IMP conceptual framework’s ARA (actor bonds, activity links and resource ties) model.

Design/methodology/approach
The paper reviewed the literature by searching selected journals using a combination of specific keywords in order to find the most recent contributions on the CDSC theme. The presented analysis allowed an interpretation of the findings through a conceptual framework.

Findings
The findings suggest that the ARA model could be a useful method through which to structure an interpretation of the most recent contributions, in both IMP and the general literature, on the discipline. In particular, three streams of research were identified: the customer closeness strategy, relational strategy, and intra-organizational strategy.

Research limitations/implications
These clusters can be deeply analyzed using the major knowledge on CDSC dynamics. By studying these issues in an integrated way, the implications in terms of competition, generalization of results, constraints, problems, and difficulties of the customer-driven approach could be enhanced. Limitations are the restricted period of time and the absence of empirical research.

Practical implications
Each identified cluster presents the tools that have to be improved in order to implement the customer-driven orientation, which increases the performance and brings an added value for the same supply chain. For this reason, an emerging need is to develop studies on the empirical side that consider the implications in terms of an integrated framework among the three issues.

Originality/value
The paper increases the understanding of CDSCs by using conceptual and interpretative tools developed by the IMP literature. The ARA model allows the creation of a conceptual framework that clarifies, in a holistic way, the most important characteristics that have to be developed in order to improve the CDSC perspective. Recommendations and a research agenda for the implementation of the customer-driven view are derived.
Strategizing in horizons and verizons
Authors: Huemer Lars 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
The study has two related objectives. At the firm level of analysis, the author proposes that a clearer distinction between firms’ mediating functions and mediators could enhance the understanding of business network strategizing. Whereas firms’ mediating functions have received attention in IMP research, less focus has been given to organizations whose core business is mediation. At the system level of analysis, the study complements the perception of a network horizon with that of a network verizon. Whereas the horizon is closely associated with work on firms’ mediating functions, the network verizon is of particular interest to mediators. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach
This conceptual study combines IMP insights with strategic management theory.

Findings
The notion of a network horizon is important for business network strategizing, but also influences the perception of relevant network structures. These structures tend to be characterized by sequential interdependencies and a long-linked technology, often associated with physical products and production facilities. The notion of a network verizon highlights a network “depth” that has been unnoticed by previous work, which has focused on how narrow or wide a firm’s network horizon should be. The network horizon and the network verizon add strategizing options in terms of connecting key actors in the network to create additional value.

Originality/value
This paper concerns how IMP scholars understand boundaries and firms, and how perceptions of these influence business network strategizing. The study articulates a distinction between firms’ mediating functions and those organizations that fundamentally create value through mediating services. This distinction has system-level implications. In particular, the claim that the basis for a firm’s strategizing is its network horizon is discussed. The author proposes the notion of a “network Verizon,” providing a boundary perception of specific relevance to mediators. The network verizon portrays a network depth beyond both sequential tiers in a supply chain and links between different supply chains.
Robots that interact with humans: a review of safety technologies and standards
Authors: Bogue Robert 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
This paper aims to provide details of the safety considerations, technologies and standards associated with robots that interact with, or operate in proximity to, humans.

Design/methodology/approach
Following an introduction, this paper first considers collaborative robots and discusses their safety features and the new technical specification ISO/TS 15066, together with certain allied safety standards. It then discusses ISO 13482 and a range of assistive, personal care and service robots which comply with this and highlights new standards that are under development. Mobile warehouse and delivery robots are then considered, together with the safety technologies used and the associated standards. Finally, brief concluding comments are drawn.

Findings
The recent proliferation of robots that interact with humans or operate in proximity to them has led to the development of standards and specifications which seek to ensure safe operation. These allow robot manufacturers to design inherently safe products that will gain market acceptance and also help to inspire confidence among users. A number of new standards and specifications have been proposed or are being developed, and this trend is set to continue as new classes of robotic products emerge.

Originality/value
All manner of robots are being developed which interact with humans, and this provides details of the associated safety considerations, technologies and standards.
A path planning method of anti-jamming ability improvement for autonomous vehicle navigating in off-road environments
Authors: Chen Jiajia , Jiang Wuhua , Zhao Pan , Hu Jinfang 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
Navigating in off-road environments is a huge challenge for autonomous vehicles, due to the safety requirement, the effects of noises and non-holonomic constraints of vehicle. This paper aims to describe a path planning method based on fuzzy support vector machine (FSVM) and general regression neural network (GRNN) that is able to provide a solution path for the autonomous vehicle navigating in the off-road environments.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors decompose the path planning problem into three steps. In the first step, A* algorithm is applied to obtain the positive and negative samples. In the second step, the authors use a learning approach based on radial basis function kernel FSVM to maximize the safety margin for driving, and the fuzzy membership is designed based on GRNN which can help to resolve the problem that the traditional path planning method is easily influenced by noises or outliers. In the third step, the Bezier interpolation algorithm is used to smooth the path. The simulations are designed to verify the parameters of the path planning algorithm.

Findings
The method is implemented on autonomous vehicle and verified against many outdoor scenes. Road test indicates that the proposed method can produce a flexible, smooth and safe path with good anti-jamming performance.

Originality/value
This paper applied a new path planning method based on GRNN-FSVM for autonomous vehicle navigating in off-road environments. GRNN-FSVM can reduce the effects of outliers and maximize the safety margin for driving, the generated path is smooth and safe, while satisfying the constraint of vehicle kinematic.
Gender comparisons of Israeli social work faculty using h-index scores
Authors: Panisch Lisa S. , Smith Thomas E. , Carter Tyler Edison , Osteen Philip J. 
Published: May 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the role of gender and faculty rank to determine their contribution to individual variance in research productivity for doctoral social work faculty in Israel.

Design/methodology/approach
H-index scores were used to assess research productivity. Quantitative comparisons of the h-index scores were performed for a sample (n=92) of social work faculty from Israeli universities with social work doctoral programs. Average h-index differences were assessed between genders at each tenure-track faculty rank and between faculty ranks for each gender.

Findings
Scholarly impact varied as a function of faculty rank. There was little indication of variance due to gender or the interaction of gender and rank. The average h-index of male faculty was higher than the mean h-index for women at the rank of lecturer and full professor. Women had a higher mean h-index than men at the rank of senior lecturer and associate professor. H-index means varied most at the full professor level.

Originality/value
Results were congruent with previous studies demonstrating that male faculty in the social sciences have higher overall h-index scores than women. However, this study was unique in its finding that this gap was reversed for Israeli social work faculty at the senior lecturer and associate professor. Further research is needed to examine the differences in publication patterns of social work faculty in different countries.