bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enduring epigenetic landmarks define the cancer microenvironment
Authors: Pidsley Ruth , Lawrence Mitchell G. , Zotenko Elena , Niranjan Birunthi , Statham Aaron , Song Jenny , Chabanon Roman M. , Qu Wenjia , Wang Hong , Richards Michelle , Nair Shalima S. , Armstrong Nicola J. , Nim Hieu T. , Papargiris Melissa , Balanathan Preetika , French Hugh , Peters Timothy , Norden Sam , Ryan Andrew , Pedersen John , Kench James , Daly Roger J. , Horvath Lisa G. , Stricker Phillip , Frydenberg Mark , Taylor Renea A. , Stirzaker Clare , Risbridger Gail P. , Clark Susan J.
Published: April 2018

The growth and progression of solid tumors involves dynamic cross-talk between cancer epithelium and the surrounding microenvironment. To date, molecular profiling has largely been restricted to the epithelial component of tumors; therefore, features underpinning the persistent protumorigenic phenotype of the tumor microenvironment are unknown. Using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing, we show for the first time that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) from localized prostate cancer display remarkably distinct and enduring genome-wide changes in DNA methylation, significantly at enhancers and promoters, compared to nonmalignant prostate fibroblasts (NPFs). Differentially methylated regions associated with changes in gene expression have cancer-related functions and accurately distinguish CAFs from NPFs. Remarkably, a subset of changes is shared with prostate cancer epithelial cells, revealing the new concept of tumor-specific epigenome modifications in the tumor and its microenvironment. The distinct methylome of CAFs provides a novel epigenetic hallmark of the cancer microenvironment and promises new biomarkers to improve interpretation of diagnostic samples.
The effect of the fused-ring substituent on anthracene chalcones: crystal structural and DFT studies of 1-(anthracen-9-yl)-3-(naphthalen-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one and 1-(anthracen-9-yl)-3-(pyren-1-yl)prop-2-en-1-one
Authors: Zainuri Dian Alwani , Razak Ibrahim Abdul , Arshad Suhana
Published: April 2018

The title chalcone compounds, C27H18O (I) and C33H20O (II), were synthesized using a Claisen–Schmidt condensation. Both compounds display an s-trans configuration of the enone moiety. The crystal structures feature intermolecular C—H...O and C—H...π interactions. Quantum chemical analysis of density functional theory (DFT) with a B3LYP/6–311++G(d,p) basis set has been employed to study the structural properties of the compound. The effect of the intermolecular interactions in the solid state are responsible for the differences between the experimental and theoretical optimized geometrical parameters. The small HOMO–LUMO energy gap in (I) (exp : 3.18 eV and DFT: 3.15 eV) and (II) (exp : 2.76 eV and DFT: 2.95 eV) indicates the suitability of these compounds for optoelectronic applications. The intermolecular contacts and weak contributions to the supramolecular stabilization are analysed using Hirshfeld surface analysis.
Comparison of perceived acquisition value sought by online second-hand and new goods shoppers
Authors: Fernando Angeline Gautami , Sivakumaran Bharadhwaj , Suganthi L.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Second-hand/used goods channels compete with existing traditional channels to satisfy consumers’ needs that are unmet by traditional retail networks. However, most studies on online shopping have largely ignored online second-hand/used good purchases. This study aims to use Thaler’s mental accounting model, principal–agent perspective and contamination theory to highlight the differences in the value sought by online new goods and second-hand shoppers.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework linking perceived uncertainty, perceived acquisition value and e-loyalty was developed and tested using structural equation modelling. The moderating effects of product type (new vs second-hand) and frugality were also included.

Findings

The paper found strong support for the model. Results showed that online second-hand shoppers were more uncertain and perceived lesser levels of acquisition value when compared to new goods shoppers. They were also less frugal. Online shoppers are also more likely to buy products with sensory attributes (experience goods) in new goods websites and products with non-sensory attributes (search goods) from second-hand websites. The authors recommend various ways in which managers can increase perceived value for the online shopper.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies can extend this investigation by including transaction value or other hedonic values to verify their impact on acquisition value and e-loyalty. While the authors found support for the notion that consumers who buy used goods online are less frugal, there is some research that could point to the opposite. Hence, research can investigate this topic in depth in more countries to throw more light on this.

Practical implications

To sustain themselves in a competitive online market, retailers need to understand the value sought by consumers. This study provides empirical evidence of the importance of acquisition value for new goods and second-hand shoppers.

Originality/value

No recent research has compared the value sought by online second-hand and new goods shoppers. This study contributes to the understanding of the acquisition value perceived by consumers in online new goods and second-hand shopping channels.
Non-musical sound branding – a conceptualization and research overview
Authors: Graakjær Nicolai Jørgensgaard , Bonde Anders
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to advance the understanding of sound branding by developing a new conceptual framework and providing an overview of the research literature on non-musical sound.

Design/methodology/approach

Using four mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive types of non-musical sound, the paper assesses and synthesizes 99 significant studies across various scholarly fields.

Findings

The overview reveals two areas in which more research may be warranted, that is, non-musical atmospherics and non-musical sonic logos. Moreover, future sound-branding research should examine in further detail the potentials of developed versus annexed object sounds, and mediated versus unmediated brand sounds.

Research limitations/implications

The paper provides important insights into critical issues that suggest directions for further research on non-musical sound branding.

Practical implications

The paper identifies an unexploited terrain of possibilities for the use of sound in marketing and branding.

Originality/value

The paper identifies a subfield within sound-branding research that has received little attention despite its inevitability and potential significance.
Systems mapping for technology development in CBRN response
Authors: Hancox Graham , Hignett Sue , Pillin Hilary , Kintzios Spyros , Silmäri Jyri , Thomas C.L. Paul
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an EU sociotechnical systems (STSs) map to represent a harmonised concept of operations (CONOPS) as a future development platform for technologies used in multi-services emergency responses to chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) incidents.

Design/methodology/approach

AcciMaps were developed to locate where technologies are currently used, and opportunities for new technologies. The AcciMaps were iteratively co-designed with end users (fire, ambulance, police and military) across three EU countries (the UK, Finland and Greece). Data were collected using document analysis and interviews with senior ranking (Gold or Silver Command level) representatives of the participating end users.

Findings

Despite differences in terminology and between service sectors, consensus was achieved for the command structures (Gold, Silver and Bronze), and Hot Zone responders (specialist blue light responders and blue light responders (BLR)). A control room was included as the communication spine. BLR activities were limited by their scope of practice and available equipment, for example, breathing apparatus. The harmonised EU AcciMap offers a high-level STSs map of CBRN response. Critical segments have been identified which offer opportunities for technology developments that can add value in terms of response capabilities (e.g. tag and trace).

Originality/value

A large scale major CBRN incident may need cross-border and cross-professional engagement where efficient interoperability is vital. This research is the first EU consensus of a STS map for CONOPS. It supports future research for technology development, e.g., detection and decontamination equipment design and use, communication, diagnosis and response technologies.
The impact of blame culture on paramedic practice
Authors: Kirk Andrew , Armstrong Kevin , Nurkka Niina , Jinks Annette
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore English and Finnish paramedic perceptions of the healthcare blame culture, its relationship to complaints, the use of defensive practice and if this impacts on paramedic practice and clinical care.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants were recruited from English and Finnish ambulance services that have similar organisational and professional scopes of practice. The aim was to gain insight into the similarities and differences between the countries regarding the existence of a blame culture in paramedic practice. Semi-structured focus groups and interviews involving 20 English and Finnish paramedics were undertaken. Qualitative perceptions concerning the reality of a blame culture in paramedic practice and its impact on professional roles were sought.

Findings

Three major themes that were identified in the thematic analysis included: blame culture and its influences; the impact of complaints against paramedics; and the use of defensive practice within their roles. These data themes were similar for both groups of participants. The majority of participants thought the healthcare blame culture to be widespread and believed that this was likely to directly influence paramedics’ working practices.

Originality/value

Whilst the impact of blame culture and complaints on the medical profession has previously been examined, this study makes an important contribution by exploring the factors that impact on paramedics’ lives and their practice, within two European countries. The inappropriate use of social media by some members of the public in both countries was a disturbing issue for many participants and was identified as an area for further research.
The impact of bank financing and internal financing sources on women’s motivation for e-entrepreneurship
Authors: Mand Harvinder Singh , Atri Meenakshi , Gill Amarjit , Amiraslany Afshin
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of bank financing and internal financing sources on women’s motivation for e-entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

Female owners of e-businesses in India were surveyed regarding their perceptions of bank financing, internal financing sources and their motivations for e-entrepreneurship.

Findings

The findings of this study show that bank financing and internal financing sources positively impact women’s motivation for e-entrepreneurship in India. The results show that family status, education, easy access to new business information and location positively impact women’s motivation for e-entrepreneurship in India. The findings also show that bank financing has a higher impact on women’s motivation for e-entrepreneurship compared with internal financing sources.

Research limitations/implications

This is a co-relational study that investigated the relationship between bank financing and women’s motivation for e-entrepreneurship and the relationship between internal financing sources and women’s motivation for e-entrepreneurship. There is not necessarily a causal relationship between the two. The findings of this study may only be generalized to individuals similar to those that were included in this research.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on the impact of bank financing and internal financing sources on women’s motivation for e-entrepreneurship. The findings may be useful for investment advisors, the Indian Government and entrepreneurship consultants.
Patient satisfaction and an international dental graduate workforce programme
Authors: Skapetis Tony , Ajwani Shilpi , Bhole Sameer
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The New South Wales International Dental Graduate (N-IDG) programme was an Australian state government workforce initiative to support rural public dental services. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate patient satisfaction following dental treatment provided by an IDG workforce.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional descriptive study used a validated questionnaire survey instrument to measure patient satisfaction (n=813) following treatment provided by IDGs enroled in the N-IDG programme, compared to their mentors. Domains included dentists’ professional competency, personality and the dental surgery organisation. Analysis of closed and open question responses was performed using domain grouping, frequency and χ2 analysis.

Findings

Patient satisfaction across the IDG and mentor workforce was similar and very positively skewed with differences detected across perceived treatment quality (p=0.03), clinician efficiency (p=0.05) and answering of questions (p=0.05). These results favoured treatment provided by IDGs over mentors. This study demonstrated few differences between IDGs under limited registration and their mentors in terms of perceived patient satisfaction, suggesting patient perceived parity in care.

Originality/value

Patient satisfaction was used innovatively to IDGs as an indicator of dental workforce programme effectiveness.
Is the Australian housing market in a bubble?
Authors: Wang Justine , Koblyakova Alla , Tiwari Piyush , Croucher John S.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to explore principal drivers affecting prices in the Australian housing market, aiming to detect the presence of housing bubbles within it. The data set analyzed covers the past two decades, thereby including the period of the most recent housing boom between 2012 and 2015.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the application of combined enhanced rigorous econometric frameworks, such as ordinary least square (OLS), Granger causality and the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) framework, to provide an in-depth understanding of house price dynamics and bubbles in Australia.

Findings

The empirical results presented reveal that Australian house prices are driven primarily by four key factors: mortgage interest rates, consumer sentiment, the Australian S&P/ASX 200 stock market index and unemployment rates. It finds that these four key drivers have long-term equilibrium in relation to house prices, and any short-term disequilibrium always self-corrects over the long term because of economic forces. The existence of long-term equilibrium in the housing market suggests it is unlikely to be in a bubble (Diba and Grossman, 1988; Flood and Hodrick, 1986).

Originality/value

The foremost contribution of this paper is that it is the first rigorous study of housing bubbles in Australia at the national level. Additionally, the data set renders the study of particular interest because it incorporates an analysis of the most recent housing boom (2012-2015). The policy implications from the study arise from the discussion of how best to balance monetary policy, fiscal policy and macroeconomic policy to optimize the steady and stable growth of the Australian housing market, and from its reconsideration of affordability schemes and related policies designed to incentivize construction and the involvement of complementary industries associated with property.
Bank lending and housing prices in Sweden
Authors: Öhman Peter , Yazdanfar Darush
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the Granger causal link between bank lending and housing prices.

Design/methodology/approach

Several econometric methods, including Granger causality tests based on a vector error correction model, were applied to analyse monthly time series data in the Swedish context. The data cover bank lending, apartment prices, villa prices, mortgage rates and the consumer price index from September 2005 to October 2013.

Findings

The results indicate that bank lending and housing prices are cointegrated. According to Granger causality tests, bidirectional relationships exist between bank lending and each of apartment and villa prices, confirming the financial accelerator mechanism. However, earlier shocks arising from housing prices themselves account for the greatest variation in future prices.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this study represents the first analysis of the causal link between bank lending and the housing market in terms of apartment and villa prices in the Swedish context.
A conceptual model of knowledge sharing
Authors: Farooq Rayees
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to develop a conceptual model of knowledge sharing and how knowledge sharing is linked to business performance. The study proposes basic dimensions of knowledge sharing which seem to be poorly defined in the past literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The studies were explored from journals which are indexed (Scopus, Thomson Reuters and ProQuest) and specialized in knowledge sharing and business performance. Majority of the papers were available in electronic format, so that papers could be easily explored using the key terms. Various search engines were used to explore the studies such as Google scholar, Emerald insight and ProQuest. Published theses, conference proceedings, working paper series and work in progress were excluded from the search. The review process included the studies from 1987 to 2017. During the review process, papers were explored on the basis of key word search, namely, “Knowledge sharing”, “Business performance” and “Industry type” to reduce interpretation bias.

Findings

Knowledge sharing is the significant predictor of business performance and industry type moderates the relationship between knowledge sharing and business performance. The relationship between knowledge sharing and business performance is important in both manufacturing and service organizations. Knowledge sharing dimensions proposed are elementary in nature and require further refinement and development.

Research limitations/implications

The study was approached from a theoretical perspective and the model proposed can be empirically validated by identifying statements for each dimension. Future research should explore the following: As to what extent these dimensions reflect knowledge sharing? Are dimensions chosen carefully? Or do they emerge as a result of previous studies?

Practical implications

The model can be very helpful for managers and practitioners who want to study how knowledge sharing enhances business performance. Managers will be able to understand how industry-specific differences affect business performance through knowledge sharing.

Originality/value

Proposed conceptual model advances the theoretical base of knowledge sharing by suggesting dimensions based on comprehensive review of the literature. The study contributes to knowledge management and business performance literature.
Engineering and development in Brazil, challenges and prospects: a new perspective on the topic
Authors: Grochocki Luís , Guimarães Jorge , Prata Alvaro , Oliveira João
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Engineering is a powerful instrument for promoting the social and economic development of nations. Its enhancement is a strategic element to accelerate Brazil’s progress. This paper aims to present a new perspective on the topic of “Engineering and Development in Brazil, Challenges and Prospects” (Guimarães et al., 2007). Its goal is to discuss the need for restructuring the Brazilian system for research, development and innovation (RD&I) and the training of human resources in engineering in the country.

Design/methodology/approach

This article is designed to discuss the relations between the performance of the industrial sector and the maturation of engineering in Brazil by looking at the national scientific production in the area in comparison to the world production and to countries (South Korea and The Netherlands). Finally, in terms of training human resources, the Brazilian study abroad program Science without Borders program is discussed in the article as an important tool for the qualification of engineering students in Brazil.

Findings

A few of the main findings in this research are as follows: despite being among the top 20 countries in scientific production in Engineering, Brazil still lacks turning this scientific-technological knowledge into products and patents; Brazilian universities and research institutes must build interorganizational collaborations with the industrial sector to increase innovation in the field of engineering; The distribution of the investment in RD&I in engineering must be strategically distributed among its various fields, taking into account national strategies and the technological interrelations between them. The article concludes that engineering is a powerful instrument for promoting a country’s social development while offering indications about Brazilian strategic orientation in the development of engineering.

Originality/value

Despite already being well known that engineering is a powerful instrument for promoting a country’s social development, this article innovates by associating academic scientific production in engineering to other variables related to economic development, such as gross domestic product, human development index, industrial and manufactured production and the filing of patents. It comes at an important moment when the Brazilian Government is discussing new strategies to increase social and economic development in the country while controlling for the investment in RD&I. Therefore, it is the right moment to discuss national policies in science, technology and innovation, especially in the area of engineering.
Motivations of crowdsourcing contributors
Authors: Pinto Luiz Fernando Silva , dos Santos Carlos Denner
Published: April 2018

Purpose

This study aimed at analyzing the factors that induce the intention of contribution by participants in crowdsourcing initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is an explanatory investigation using a quantitative approach. In the second stage, an exploratory study was carried out. Data were obtained through online questionnaires available to the contributors of two platforms, and results were obtained from a regression analysis.

Findings

The results revealed a greater importance given by participants to intrinsic motivational factors (learning, fun and satisfaction) compared with the extrinsic motivational factor (acknowledgment). Monetary rewards proved irrelevant in this process, whereas attitude and self-efficacy proved good predictors of the intention of contribution in crowdsourcing initiatives.

Originality/value

No study, as far as the authors’ knowledge extends, has been undertaken to understand what motivations are more relevant in the context of crowdsourcing platforms using multiple theories.
Proactive Collaborative Conservation
Authors: Perzolla Valentina , Carr Chris M. , Westland Stephen
Published: April 2018

Purpose

This paper describes a system of collaboration between cultural institutions, conservation scientists and companies focussed on achieving global sustainability in museum and heritage sites through proactive conservation. The purpose of this paper is to propose the Proactive Collaborative Conservation (ProCoCo) as a viable tool to accomplish this objective.

Design/methodology/approach

The lack of degradation studies on contemporary materials, such as composites, was identified as an issue for the future of cultural heritage. Developing new approaches to heritage and conservation becomes vital and it is in this landscape that ProCoCo is inserted. A concise review of the literature is reported and the process that led to the development of ProCoCo is explained. Backcasting and forecasting were used to develop different parts of the approach.

Findings

ProCoCo consists in studying parameters of the new materials, manufactured by the commercial partner, then simulating the ageing and, finally, re-studying the same parameters in order to predict lifetime changes. During the case study, it was confirmed that such an approach helps in identifying weaknesses in the material, which can then become useful for conservators and manufacturers.

Practical implications

The approach allows conservation scientists and conservators to measure the conservation state of materials and to detect degradation at an early stage.

Originality/value

ProCoCo offers a different vision of the long-term issue of funding accessibility faced by museums and suggests a way of improving heritage global sustainability. It proposes a pragmatic and lasting solution to the insufficient public economic support in the arts which runs parallel to government aid.
Choosing action plans for strategic manufacturing objectives using AHP
Authors: Chiarini Andrea
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) methodology can help in the decision-making process of choosing action plans linked to manufacturing strategy. The research also analyses the path which some managers followed for defining and selecting the action plans as well as the organisational obstacles and pitfalls the managers encountered.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted an exploratory case study in a medium-sized Italian manufacturing company. The authors collected, coded and discussed data from the AHP implementation. Furthermore, during the observation of how the managers dealt with the decision-making path, the authors collected, coded and discussed the qualitative data.

Findings

Results showed that AHP made the decision-making process of choosing between alternative plans more objective. However, the authors observed obstacles and pitfalls mainly linked to organisational aspects such as creating team and staff’s awareness, involvement and commitment as well as staff’s skills. Other interesting findings are linked to the creation of managers’ consensus and the top manager’s managerial style and how the latter could affect the AHP consistency ratio.

Research limitations/implications

This research is based on a case study. The findings need to be tested by other scholars and practitioners in different organisations. Moreover, issues such as management consensus and negotiation in manufacturing organisations and managerial style need further research.

Practical implications

AHP methodology can help practitioners who are dealing with the deployment of strategic manufacturing objectives and who are trying to employ methods for choosing the right action plan. Besides, practitioners are aware of specific organisational obstacles and pitfalls encountered on the strategic deployment path.

Originality/value

This paper proposes for the first time the use of the AHP methodology for choosing between action plans derived from strategic manufacturing objectives.
Outsourced contracts, buyer-supplier trust, supplier opportunistic behavior and supplier performance in ugandan public procuring and disposing entities (PDEs)
Authors: Ahimbisibwe Arthur , Muhwezi Moses , Nangoli Sudi
Published: April 2018

This study sought to examine the extent to which outsourced contracts, buyer-supplier trust and supplier opportunistic behavior explain supplier performance in Ugandan Public Procuring and Disposing Entities (PDEs). This study was prompted by reports of long lead times, failure to match specifications, late deliveries, poor quality of services delivered, contract violations, and increased supplier cheating. Cross sectional data from 116 central government PDEs concerning outsourced contracts was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Hierarchical regression was used to indicate what happens to a model that was developed as part of this research as different predictor variables are introduced. The findings revealed that outsourced contracts, buyer-supplier trust, and supplier opportunistic behavior are significant predictors of supplier performance. The study has both managerial and policy implications which are discussed in this paper.
Measuring the efficient management of public works contracts: A non-parametric approach
Authors: Guccio Calogero , Pignataro Giacomo , Rizzo Ilde
Published: April 2018

The efficiency of execution of public works contracts is usually defined in terms of the capacity to complete works within the costs and the time agreed on in the contract. Therefore, it has been traditionally measured considering either costs overruns or delays. Our purpose is to consider both measures simultaneously, so as to develop a measure of overall efficiency of public works contracts execution. We compute this measure, through a benchmark procedure, using a non-parametric approach (DEA - Data Envelopment Analysis). The analysis is carried out employing a detailed data set of Italian public contracts for roads and highways, in the period 2000- 2005.
Evaluation of ecotourism sites: a GIS-based multi-criteria decision analysis
Authors: Çetinkaya Cihan , Kabak Mehmet , Erbaş Mehmet , Özceylan Eren
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential geographic locations for ecotourism activities and to select the best one among alternatives.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model consists of four sequential phases. In the first phase, different geographic criteria are determined based on existing literature, and data are gathered using GIS. On equal criteria weighing, alternative locations are determined using GIS in the second phase. In the third phase, the identified criteria are weighted using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) by various stakeholders of potential ecotourism sites. In the fourth phase, the PROMETHEE method is applied to determine the best alternative based on the weighted criteria.

Findings

A framework including four sequential steps is proposed. Using real data from the Black Sea region in Turkey, the authors test the applicability of the evaluation approach and compare the best alternative obtained by the proposed method for nine cities in the region. Consequently, west of Sinop, east of Artvin and south of the Black Sea region are determined as very suitable locations for ecotourism.

Research limitations/implications

The first limitation of the study is considered the number of included criteria. Another limitation is the use of deterministic parameters that do not cope with uncertainty. Further research can be conducted for determining the optimum locations for different types of tourism, e.g. religion tourism, hunting tourism and golf tourism, for effective tourism planning.

Practical implications

The proposed approach can be applied to all area that cover the considered criteria. The approach has been tested in the Black Sea region (nine cities) in Turkey.

Social implications

Using the proposed approach, decision-makers can determine locations where environmentally responsible travel to natural areas to enjoy and appreciate nature that promotes conservation have a low visitor impact and provide for beneficially active socioeconomic involvement of local individuals.

Originality/value

To the best knowledge of the authors, this is the first study which applies a GIS-based multi-criteria decision-making approach for ecotourism site selection.
Contribution of the lessons learned from oil refining accidents to the industrial risks assessment
Authors: Samia Chettouh , Hamzi Rachida , Chebila Mourad
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to employ lessons learned from the industrial accidents in Skikda refinery during the period from 2005 to 2016 as input data for the numerical simulation of risk consequences to identify the exposed areas to the various effects of industrial accidents.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to assess how the lessons learned can contribute to modeling the accidents effects in the refining activities, this paper presents a combined statistical/dynamic approach that combines two main tools, namely, lessons learned from petroleum refining in Algeria and Areal Locations of Hazardous Atmospheres software.

Findings

The results showed that fire is the most frequent accident at Skikda refinery that is mainly caused by equipment failures with a frequent involvement of crude oil and LNG. The NO2toxic effects are unacceptable. This means that in the case of a similar accident, the entire population will be exposed to an intolerable concentration of NO2. Therefore, people must be relocated to a safer place. The results indicate that the concentration threshold can be met beyond the distance of 1 km.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the economic importance of Skikda refinery and the absence of data related to the accidents in the refineries of Algiers, Arzew and Hassi Messaoud, this study is limited to the statistical analysis of accidents related to Skikda refinery.

Practical implications

This approach makes the risk assessment more practical and effective for the appropriate utilization of safety barriers and for the whole decision-making process.

Originality/value

This work presents a review paper of accidents that occurred in the oil-refining sector in Algeria, whose objective is learning lessons from past accidents history, by identifying their immediate causes and effects on personnel, equipment and environment in order to propose prevention measures. The novelty of this work is highlighted by the fact that this statistical analysis of oil and gas refining accident is realized for the first time in Algeria. This is due to the difficulty of obtaining data on accidents in the Algerian refining sector; for this reason, the authors have limited the study to the Skikda refinery.
Application of theory of planned behaviour to households’ source separation behaviour in Ghana
Authors: Alhassan Hamdiyah , Asante Felix Ankomah , Oteng-Ababio Martin , Bawakyillenuo Simon
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors that encourage households’ source separation behaviour in Accra and Tamale Metropolises in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional design, 855 households of Ghana were interviewed based on the theoretical framework of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB). The ordered probit regression model was employed to examine the factors that influence households’ source separation intention.

Findings

The results indicated that educational attainment of head of household, total income of household, occupation type of household head, information, past experience with source separation, inconvenience in terms of time, space and availability of formal source separation scheme, attitude, subjective norm and the location of the respondents significantly predicted households’ solid waste separation intentions.

Research limitations/implications

The cross-sectional design does not determine causality but an association. Thus, future studies should examine actual household waste separation behaviour by using the experimental design to test the TPB model.

Practical implications

To promote solid waste separation at source, the public should be educated and provided with solid waste separation schemes that are efficient and compatible with households’ preference.

Originality/value

This study was partly motivated by the fact that despite the benefits associated with source separation, little attention has been given to formal source separation in Ghana. Moreover, there are limited studies on source separation behaviour in Ghana using the TPB as the theoretical framework.
Analytical solutions of thermo-piezoelectric interactions in a solid fiber of polygonal cross-sections immersed in fluid
Authors: Selvamani Rajendran
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the analytical solutions of transversely isotropic thermo-piezoelectric interactions in a polygonal cross-sectional fiber immersed in fluid using the Fourier expansion collocation method.

Design/methodology/approach

A mathematical model is developed for the analytical study on a transversely isotropic thermo-piezoelectric polygonal cross-sectional fiber immersed in fluid using a linear form of three-dimensional piezothermoelasticity theories. After developing the formal solution of the mathematical model consisting of partial differential equations, the frequency equations have been analyzed numerically by using the Fourier expansion collocation method (FECM) at the irregular boundary surfaces of the polygonal cross-sectional fiber. The roots of the frequency equation are obtained by using the secant method, applicable for complex roots.

Findings

From the literature survey, it is evident that the analytical formulation of thermo-piezoelectric interactions in a polygonal cross-sectional fiber contact with fluid is not discussed by any researchers. Also, in this study, a polygonal cross-section is used instead of the traditional circular cross-sections. So, the analytical solutions of transversely isotropic thermo-piezoelectric interactions in a polygonal cross-sectional fiber immersed in fluid are studied using the FECM. The dispersion curves for non-dimensional frequency, phase velocity and attenuation coefficient are presented graphically for lead zirconate titanate (PZT-5A) material. The present analytical method obtained by the FECM is compared with the finite element method which shows a good agreement with present study.

Originality/value

This paper contributes the analytical model to find the solution of transversely isotropic thermo-piezoelectric interactions in a polygonal cross-sectional fiber immersed in fluid. The dispersion curves of the non-dimensional frequency, phase velocity and attenuation coefficient are more prominent in flexural modes. Also, the surrounding fluid on the various considered wave characteristics is more significant and dispersive in the hexagonal cross-sections. The aspect ratio (a/b) of polygonal cross-sections is critical to industry or other fields which require more flexibility in design of materials with arbitrary cross-sections.
An optical approach to accurately determine surface finish for additive manufacturing
Authors: Sciammarella Federico
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The paper aims to highlight the importance of having an optical method that can accurately measure the surface finish of 3D printed parts and the influence this has on the total volume of the build.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the application of digital moiré to the determination of the surface finish of 3D printed parts.

Findings

This study shows that surface roughness plays an important role in the volumetric analysis. There was an increase of 7 per cent from the total volume of the original CAD drawing; in total, there was 19 per cent more material deposited.

Research limitations/implications

This methodology provides a robust tool for future research in the area of geometrical verification and optimization in addition to the potential use for residual stress determination.

Practical implications

This study shows that process optimization can be carried out more efficiently, and it is possible to determine the efficiency of an AM process by directly correlating the processing parameters and accurately comparing the prescribed CAD dimensions/volume to that of the as built part.

Social implications

By reducing the amount of waste through process optimization, this leads to a reduced consumption of energy which can have a major impact on the environment.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills the need for high accuracy volumetric measurement of 3D printed components.
User interface tool for a novel plasma-assisted bio-additive extrusion system
Authors: Liu Fengyuan , Hinduja Srichand , Bártolo Paulo
Published: April 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the control software of a novel manufacturing system called plasma-assisted bio-extrusion system (PABS), designed to produce complex multi-material and functionally graded scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. This fabrication system combines multiple pressure-assisted and screw-assisted printing heads and plasma jets. Control software allows the users to create single or multi-material constructs with uniform pore size or pore size gradients by changing the operation parameters, such as geometric parameters, lay-down pattern, filament distance, feed rate and layer thickness, and to produce functional graded scaffolds with different layer-by-layer coating/surface modification strategies by using the plasma modification system.

Design/methodology/approach

MATLAB GUI is used to develop the software, including the design of the user interface and the implementation of all mathematical programing for both multi-extrusion and plasma modification systems.

Findings

Based on the user definition, G programing codes are generated, enabling full integration and synchronization with the hardware of PABS. Single, multi-material and functionally graded scaffolds can be obtained by manipulating different materials, scaffold designs and processing parameters. The software is easy to use, allowing the efficient control of the PABS even for the fabrication of complex scaffolds.

Originality/value

This paper introduces a novel additive manufacturing system for tissue engineering applications describing in detail the software developed to control the system. This new fabrication system represents a step forward regarding the current state-of-the-art technology in the field of biomanufacturing, enabling the design and fabrication of more effective scaffolds matching the mechanical and surface characteristics of the surrounding tissue and enabling the incorporation of high number of cells uniformly distributed and the introduction of multiple cell types with positional specificity.
The role of plant–soil feedbacks in stabilizing a reindeer‐induced vegetation shift in subarctic tundra
Authors: Egelkraut Dagmar , Kardol Paul , De Long Jonathan R. , Olofsson Johan
Published: April 2018

Herbivory can drive vegetation into different states of productivity and community composition, and these changes may be stable over time due to historical contingency effects. Interactions with abiotic and biotic soil components can contribute to such long‐term legacies in plant communities through stabilizing positive feedbacks.

We studied the role of plant–soil feedbacks in maintaining vegetation changes caused by historical (~1350–1900 AD) reindeer herding in northern Sweden. These historical milking grounds (HMGs) consist of meadow plant communities formed in naturally nutrient‐poor heath or naturally nutrient‐rich shrub‐dominated vegetation and are still clearly visible in the landscape, a century after active use ceased.

We selected two phytometer species: the forb Potentilla crantzii as representative of HMG vegetation, and the dwarf shrub Betula nana, as representative of control vegetation. We grew both species under glasshouse conditions on soils derived from replicated HMG and paired control plots, using live soils and sterilized (γ‐radiation)‐inoculated soils, to separate between biotic and abiotic soil effects.

A net negative plant–soil feedback for B. nana biomass in its home (i.e., control) soil and a net positive feedback for P. crantzii in its home (i.e., HMG) soil in heath habitat was partly driven by the soil biotic community. However, abiotic differences in mineral nitrogen (N) concentrations between control and HMG soils were a stronger driver of differences in plant growth. Positive feedbacks maintaining a high mineral nutrient availability are thus important, especially in nutrient‐poor habitats.

The positive plant responses to higher soil mineral N concentrations, combined with positive biotic plant–soil feedbacks, might shift the competitive balance in favour of typical HMG plant species, thereby contributing to stability of HMG plant communities. Our data indicate that herbivore‐driven changes in the interactions between plants and both biotic and abiotic components of the soil persist over long temporal scales.

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How changes in global liquidity affect dynamics of banks’ leverage: A case in Hong Kong
Authors: Ho Kelvin , Hui Cho‐Hoi , Li Ka‐Fai , Wong Jim
Published: April 2018

This paper examines how abundant global liquidity could influence the adjustment of banks’ leverage. Using banks in Hong Kong as an example, we find that the global liquidity effect is significant, and that mean reversion of banks’ leverage may under certain circumstances be more than offset by abundant global liquidity. Furthermore, we find that changes in global liquidity not only affect the level of leverage adjustment but also the adjustment speed of banks’ leverage.
Quantifying the Impact of Scientific Research on Agriculture
Authors: Viaggi Davide
Published: April 2018

With the growing importance of science and innovation for farming, the scope for summary monetary estimates of the impact of agricultural research on productivity suggests internal rates of return of between 7 and 15 per cent, and time lags in maximum impact of around nine years. However, the extent to which the transmission process can be regarded as a ‘black box’ for econometric purposes is considered increasingly inappropriate, since the intermediate steps between research and the impacts of resulting technology adoption are increasingly complex and involve growing numbers of actors, actions and a wider set of policy objectives. Significant difficulties are encountered in quantifying research impacts, including gaps in data for dependent and explanatory variables. New features of the agricultural sector also need to be accounted for, which relate to the role of knowledge engineering, globalisation and the establishment of new impact pathways which are affecting the speed of transmission of innovations. Public support for agricultural research funding is generally justified but returns are not sufficiently high, thus requiring careful reflection on priorities for research investment. Combined use of qualitative and quantitative evaluation approaches can be complementary and more effective than relying on either alone.