bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pseudotyped Bat Coronavirus RaTG13 is efficiently neutralised by convalescent sera from SARS-CoV-2 infected Patients
Authors: Cantoni Diego , Mayora-Neto Martin , Thakur Nazia , Elrefaey Ahmed ME , Newman Joseph , Vishwanath Sneha , Nadesalingam Angalee , Chan Andrew , Smith Peter , Castillo-Olivares Javier , Baxendale Helen , Charleston Bryan , Heeney Jonathan , Bailey Dalan , Temperton Nigel
Published: August 2021

RaTG13 is a close relative of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, sharing 96% sequence similarity at the genome-wide level. The spike receptor binding domain (RBD) of RaTG13 contains a large number of amino acid substitutions when compared to SARS-CoV-2, likely impacting affinity for the ACE2 receptor. Antigenic differences between the viruses are less well understood, especially whether RaTG13 spike can be efficiently neutralised by antibodies generated from infection with, or vaccination against, SARS-CoV-2. Using RaTG13 and SARS-CoV-2 pseudotypes we compared neutralisation using convalescent sera from previously infected patients as well as vaccinated healthcare workers. Surprisingly, our results revealed that RaTG13 was more efficiently neutralised than SARS-CoV-2. In addition, neutralisation assays using spike chimeras and mutants harbouring single amino acid substitutions within the RBD demonstrated that both spike proteins can tolerate multiple changes without dramatically reducing how efficiently they are neutralised. Moreover, introducing the 484K mutation into RaTG13 resulted in increased neutralisation, in contrast to the same mutation in SARS-CoV-2 (E484K). This is despite E484K having a well-documented role in immune evasion in variants of concern (VOC) such as B.1.351 (Beta). These results indicate that the immune-escape mutations found in SARS-CoV-2 VOCs might be driven by strong antibody pressures, and that the future spill-over of RaTG13 and/or related sarbecoviruses could be mitigated using current SARS-CoV-2-based vaccination strategies.
A Test of the Pioneer Factor Hypothesis
Authors: Hansen Jeffrey L , Cohen Barak A
Published: August 2021

The Pioneer Factor Hypothesis (PFH) states that pioneer factors (PFs) are a subclass of transcription factors (TFs) that bind to and open inaccessible sites and then recruit non-pioneer factors (nonPFs) that activate batteries of silent genes. We tested the PFH by expressing the endodermal PF FoxA1 and nonPF Hnf4a in K562 lymphoblast cells. While co-expression of FoxA1 and Hnf4a activated a burst of endoderm-specific gene expression, we found no evidence for functional distinction between these two TFs. When expressed independently, both TFs bound and opened inaccessible sites, activated endodermal genes, and “pioneered” for each other, although FoxA1 required fewer copies of its motif to bind at inaccessible sites. A subset of targets required both TFs, but the mode of action at these targets did not conform to the sequential activity predicted by the PFH. From these results we propose an alternative to the PFH where “pioneer activity” depends not on the existence of discrete TF subclasses, but on TF binding affinity and genomic context.
Detection and phenotypic characterization of carbapenem non susceptible gram-negative bacilli isolated from clinical specimens
Authors: Abdeta Abera , Bitew Adane , Fentaw Surafel , Tsige Estifanos , Assefa Dawit , Lejisa Tadesse , Kefyalew Yordanos , Tigabu Eyasu
Published: August 2021

Background

Multi-drug resistant, extremely drug-resistant, pan-drug resistant, carbapenem-resistant, and carbapenemase-producing gram-negative bacteria are becoming more common in health care settings and are posing a growing threat to public health.

Objective

The study was aimed to detect and phenotypically characterize carbapenem non susceptible gram-negative bacilli at Ethiopian Public Health Institute.

Materials and methods

Prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from June 30, 2019, to May 30, 2020, at the national reference laboratory of the Ethiopian Public Health Institute. Clinical samples were collected, inoculated, and incubated in accordance to standard protocol for each sample. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done using Kirby Bauer disk diffusion. Identification was done using the traditional biochemical method. Multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant were classified using a standardized definition established by European Centers for Disease prevention and control and the United States Centers for Disease prevention and control experts. Carbapenemase production was confirmed by modified carbapenem inactivation and a simplified carbapenem inactivation method. Meropenem with EDTA was used to differentiate serine carbapenemase and Metallo β-lactamase.

Results

A total of 1337 clinical specimens were analyzed, of which 429-gram negative bacilli isolates were recovered. Out of 429 isolates 319, 74, and 36 were Enterobacterales, Acinetobacter species, and P. aeruginosa respectively. In our study, the prevalence of Multidrug-resistant, extensively drug-resistant, Carbapenemase-producing, and carbapenem non-susceptible Gram-negative bacilli were, 45.2%, 7.7%, 5.4%, and 15.4% respectively. Out of 66 isolates screened for Carbapenemase, 34.8% (23/66) were Carbapenemase enzyme producers. Ten out of twenty-three Carbapenemase-positive organisms were Metallo-beta-lactamase producers. Thirteen out of twenty-three isolates were serine carbapenemase producers. Three out of 13 serine Carbapenemase positive organisms were Klebsiella pneumoniae Carbapenemase.

Conclusion

The finding from this study revealed a high prevalence of Multidrug-resistant, extremely drug-resistant, carbapenemase-producing gram-negative bacteria, particularly among Intensive care unit patients at the health facility level, this necessitates a robust laboratory-based antimicrobial resistance monitoring and infection prevention and control program.
Toxic SOD1 trimers are off-pathway in the formation of amyloid-like fibrils in ALS
Authors: Hnath Brianna , Dokholyan Nikolay V.
Published: August 2021

Accumulation of insoluble amyloid fibrils is widely studied as a critical factor in the pathology of multiple neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurodegenerative disease. Misfolded Cu, Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) was the first protein linked to ALS, and non-native SOD1 trimeric oligomers were recently linked to cytotoxicity, while larger oligomers were protective to cells. The balance between trimers and larger aggregates in the process of SOD1 aggregation is, thus, a critical determinant of potential therapeutic approaches to treat ALS. Yet, it is unknown whether these trimeric oligomers are a necessary intermediate for larger aggregate formation or a distinct off-pathway species competing with fibril formation. Depending on the on- or off-pathway scenario of trimer formation, we expect drastically different therapeutic approaches. Here, we show that the toxic SOD1 trimer is an off-pathway intermediate competing with protective fibril formation. We design mutant SOD1 constructs that remain in a trimeric state (super stable trimers) and show that stabilizing the trimeric SOD1 prevents formation of fibrilsin vitroand in a motor neuron like cell model (NSC-34). Using size exclusion chromatography we track the aggregation kinetics of purified SOD1 and show direct competition of trimeric SOD1 with larger oligomer and fibril formation. Finally, we show the trimer is structurally independent of both larger soluble oligomers and insoluble fibrils using circular dichroism spectroscopy and limited proteolysis.

Significance Statement

Protein aggregation into large insoluble species is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases, but recent evidence suggests that smaller soluble aggregates are responsible for neuronal death. Depending on whether these toxic oligomers appear on- or off-pathway to larger aggregates, which is currently unknown, the strategies for pharmaceutic intervention would be drastically different. Here, we determine that stabilizing the trimeric form of SOD1 reduces larger aggregate formation while increasing toxicity to cells. Trimeric and larger aggregate concentrations have a strong negative correlation over time, and the structure of the trimer is significantly different from larger soluble and insoluble aggregates. Our findings show that formation of trimeric SOD1 is directly competing with that of larger aggregates.
Genetic editing of CISH enhances T cell effector programs independently of immune checkpoint cell surface ligand expression
Authors: Arthofer Elisa , Chakraborty Krishnendu , Viney Lydia , Johnson Matthew J , Webber Beau R. , Moriarity Branden S. , Lou Emil , Choudhry Modassir , Klebanoff Christopher A. , Henley Tom
Published: August 2021

PD-1 acts as a negative regulator of T cell-mediated immune responses in the setting of persistent antigen expression, including cancer and chronic pathogen infections. Antibody-mediated blockade of the PD-1/PD-L1 axis benefits a subset of patients with highly immunogenic malignancies; however, many patients fail to respond due to a requirement for expression of the cell surface ligand PD-L1 within the tumor microenvironment. CISH is a member of a new class of intra-cellular immune checkpoint molecules that function downstream of the T cell receptor to regulate antigen-specific effector functions, including reactivity to cancer neoantigens. Herein, we employed multiplex CRISPR editing of primary human T cells to systematically compare the function of CISH deletion relative to PDCD1 (the gene encoding PD-1) and/or VSIG9 (the gene encoding TIGIT) in a model of neoantigen-mediated cancer cell cytolysis. PD-1 and TIGIT disruption enhanced cytolytic activity exclusively in the setting of high PD-L1 expression. In contrast, CISH inactivation enhanced antigen-specific cytolysis of tumor cells regardless of PD-L1 expression, including outperforming PD-1 and TIGIT disruption even in the presence of high PD-L1 tumor cells. Furthermore, we observed a synergistic increase in tumor cell killing when CISH and PD-1 or TIGIT are inactivated in combination, supporting the notion that these immune checkpoints regulate non-redundant pathways of T cell activation. Together, these data demonstrate that the intra-cellular immune checkpoint protein CISH can potentially enhance anti-tumor responses against a broad range of cancer types regardless of PD-L1 biomarker status.
Research on optimization of assembly line based on product scheduling and just-in-time feeding of parts
Authors: Zhang Hui , Li Xiyang , Kan Za , Zhang Xiaohai , Li Zhiyong
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Reducing production auxiliary time is the key to improve the efficiency of the existing mixed-flow assembly line. This paper proposes a method combining improved genetic algorithm (GA) and Flexsim software. It also investigates mixed-flow assembly line scheduling and just-in-time (JIT) parts feeding scheme to reduce waste in production while taking the existing hill-drop mixed-flow assembly line as an example to verify the effectiveness of the method.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, a method is presented to optimize the efficiency of the present assembly line. The multi-objective mathematical model is established based on the objective function of the minimum production cycle and part consumption balance, and the solution model is developed using multi-objective GA to obtain the mixed flow scheduling scheme of the hill-drop planter. Furthermore, modeling and simulation with Flexsim software are investigated along with the contents of line inventory, parts transportation means, daily feeding times and time points.

Findings

Theoretical analysis and simulation experiments are carried out in this paper while taking an example of a hill-drop planter mixed-flow assembly line. The results indicate that the method can effectively reduce the idle and overload of the assembly line, use the transportation resources rationally and decrease the accumulation of the line inventory.

Originality/value

The method of combining improved GA and Flexsim software was used here for the first time intuitively and efficiently to study the balance of existing production lines and JIT feeding of parts. Investigating the production scheduling scheme provides a reference for the enterprise production line accompanied by the quantity allocation of transportation tools, the inventory consumption of the spare parts along the line and the utilization rate of each station to reduce the auxiliary time and apply practically.
Investigation of mechanical and corrosion behavior of laser hybrid weld joint of 2205 duplex stainless steel
Authors: Zheng Chuanbo , Zhang Cheng , Wang Xiao Yong , Gu Jie
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Duplex stainless steel is composed of equal amounts of austenite and ferrite, which has excellent corrosion resistance and strength. However, after the metal was welded, the ratio of austenite and ferrite in the joint is unbalanced, and secondary phase precipitates are produced, which is also an important cause of pitting corrosion in the joint.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper aims to study the mechanical and corrosion behavior of welded joints, by adjusting the welding parameters of laser hybrid welding, dual heat sources are used to weld 2205 duplex stainless steel. The two-phase content of different parts of the welded joint is measured to study the influence of the ratio of the two-phase on the mechanical and corrosion properties of the joint.

Findings

The ratio of austenite and ferrite in different welded joints has an obvious difference, and from top to bottom, the austenite content decreased gradually, and the ferrite content increased gradually. The harmful phases are precipitated in the middle and lower part of the joint. The strength of welded joints is slightly lower than that of base metal. At the same time, the fracture analysis shows that some ferrite phases are affected by the precipitate in the grain and produce quasi-cleavage fracture. The corrosion results show that the corrosion resistance of the welded joints is lower than that of the base metal, and the concentration of chloride ions affects the corrosion resistance.

Originality/value

In this paper, the authors use the influence of different welding processes on the two-phase ratio of the joint to further study the influence of the microstructure on the corrosion resistance and mechanical properties of the weld.
Based on minimum fuel consumption mode integrated optimal control of fixed-wing UAV flight propulsion system
Authors: Li Yong , Han Feifei , Zhang Xinzhe , Peng Kai , Dang Li
Published: August 2021

Purpose

In this paper, with the goal of reducing the fuel consumption of UAV, the engine performance optimization is studied and on the basis of aircraft/engine integrated control, the minimum fuel consumption optimization method of engine given thrust is proposed. In the case of keeping the given thrust of the engine unchanged, the main fuel flow of the engine without being connected to the afterburner is optimally controlled so as to minimize the fuel consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the reference model real-time optimization control method is adopted. The engine reference model uses a nonlinear real-time mathematical model of a certain engine component method. The quasi-Newton method is adopted in the optimization algorithm. According to the optimization variable nozzle area, the turbine drop-pressure ratio corresponding to the optimized nozzle area is calculated, which is superimposed with the difference of the drop-pressure ratio of the conventional control plan and output to the conventional nozzle controller of the engine. The nozzle area is controlled by the conventional nozzle controller.

Findings

The engine real-time minimum fuel consumption optimization control method studied in this study can significantly reduce the engine fuel consumption rate under a given thrust. At the work point, this is a low-altitude large Mach work point, which is relatively close to the edge of the flight envelope. Before turning on the optimization controller, the fuel consumption is 0.8124 kg/s. After turning on the optimization controller, you can see that the fuel supply has decreased by about 4%. At this time, the speed of the high-pressure rotor is about 94% and the temperature after the turbine can remain stable all the time.

Practical implications

The optimal control method of minimum fuel consumption for the given thrust of UAV is proposed in this paper and the optimal control is carried out for the nozzle area of the engine. At the same time, a method is proposed to indirectly control the nozzle area by changing the turbine pressure ratio. The relevant UAV and its power plant designers and developers may consider the results of this study to reach a feasible solution to reduce the fuel consumption of UAV.

Originality/value

Fuel consumption optimization can save fuel consumption during aircraft cruising, increase the economy of commercial aircraft and improve the combat radius of military aircraft. With the increasingly wide application of UAVs in military and civilian fields, the demand for energy-saving and emission reduction will promote the UAV industry to improve the awareness of environmental protection and reduce the cost of UAV use and operation.
Influences of client focus and company type on innovation and financial performance in the construction industry
Authors: Yusof Nor’Aini , Lai Kong Seng , Marisa Amy
Published: August 2021

Purpose

As innovation has been recognised as important in improving construction company performances, this study aims to determine the effects of client focus and company type on innovation and company financial performances.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered questionnaire was sent to 300 architectural and contractor companies and 163 (54.3%) were returned. The questionnaire data were analysed using a partial least squares structural equation modelling.

Findings

Client focus was found to have a complementary partial mediation effect on the relationships between innovation and company financial performance and that innovation independently affected company financial performance with the influence being stronger in the architecture companies than in the contractor companies.

Research limitations/implications

The study adopted a broad definition for innovation without considering the innovation types. As different types of innovation require distinct knowledge, skills, capabilities and management practices, future studies could investigate the various types of innovation and their effects on financial performance.

Practical implications

The findings provide valuable suggestions for principals, top management and policymakers on the importance of client focus when developing and disseminating innovation within the company. Also, architecture companies should focus on implementing innovation to stay competitive.

Originality/value

The mediating effects of client focus and the moderating effects of company type were simultaneously analysed on the relationship between innovation and financial performance.
High torque and excessive vibration on the induction motors under special voltage fluctuation conditions
Authors: Ghaseminezhad Morteza , Doroudi Aref , Hosseinian Seyed Hossein , Jalilian Alireza
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Voltage fluctuation (flicker) is a power quality disturbance that can produce several undesirable effects on industrial equipment. This paper aims to present the methodology and results of investigations undertaken to examine the speed and torque of an induction motor (IM) under voltage fluctuation conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The IM response to different characteristics of voltage fluctuations is presented. It will be shown that under a special condition the IM torque can even reach two times the rated torque. To show how this occurs, a qualitative discussion is given on the motor response by linearized equations.

Findings

The small-signal analysis was used to determine the frequency which leads to maximum speed fluctuations. It was shown that, if the motor is excited with a modulation frequency (resonant frequency) which is one of its natural frequencies (modes), the mode will act as a fluctuating amplifier and greatly increase the amplitude of torque and speed fluctuations. Sensitivity analysis is also carried out to evaluate the influence of motor parameters on the resonance frequency. The results show that the resonance frequency is not affected at all by the changes in magnetizing reactance. This has been shown that magnetic saturation does not have any impact on the resonance frequency. The most effective parameters are rotor and stator resistances.

Originality/value

With the increasing popularity and use of arc furnace loads in the metallurgy industry and due to the wide application of large IMs in the industry, it is possible that the frequency of torque pulsation locates near a natural frequency and then will create an oscillation with a large magnitude, potentially leading to accelerated fatigue or severe damage of shaft. However, if this phenomenon occurs in industries, the resonance frequency must be filtered from the input voltage. Experimental results on a 1.1 kW, 380 V, 50 Hz, 2 pole IM are used to validate the accuracy of simulation results.
Post-merger integration and subsidiary roles in Chinese MNCs – the case of Chinese M&As in Germany
Authors: Mense-Petermann Ursula
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper adds to the literature on outward Foreign Direct Investments by Chinese Multinational Corporations (MNCs) in advanced economies. Its objective is threefold: to characterize the subsidiary roles that advanced economy targets of Chinese Multinational Corporations (CMNC) takeovers typically adopt, to assess the position that these subsidiary roles grant them within the CMNCs as a whole and to flesh out how subsidiary actors perceive and make sense of the particular constellation as a subsidiary of a CMNC. Furthermore, this paper aims to contribute to theory development on headquarters‐subsidiary relations by suggesting an additional theoretical lens.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on in-depth qualitative case studies from the automotive, mechanical engineering and solar industries and focuses on German firms that have been acquired by Chinese MNCs. Theoretically, the present paper draws on extant post-merger integration (PMI) and subsidiary role research, particularly from a micro-political and sensemaking perspective, refined by adding a neo-imperial dominance – lens.

Findings

The paper reveals the subsidiary roles that German subsidiaries of Chinese MNCs typically adopt and discovers the PMI pattern of “reverse integration” delineating quite a particular form of reverse knowledge transfer. Regarding human integration, it emphasizes the importance of neo-imperial attitudes surfacing in the German subsidiaries.

Originality/value

The value of the paper is in contributing to fill the pending research gap on the subsidiary roles that advanced economy subsidiaries of Chinese MNCs adopt, on the resulting positions of these subsidiaries within the overall Chinese groups and the sense that subsidiary actors make of being acquired by a Chinese MNC. The paper also reveals the importance of neo-imperial dominance patterns and attitudes in PMI in the constellation scrutinized.
Relative export competitiveness of the Nigerian cocoa industry
Authors: Abdullahi Nazir Muhammad , Zhang Qiangqiang , Shahriar Saleh , Kea Sokvibol , Huo Xuexi
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to derive the time-varying relative export competitiveness (REC) of the Nigerian cocoa sector against Nigeria’s share of world agricultural exports (REC_WA) and world merchandise exports (REC_WM) from 1995 to 2018. By concentrating on different factors such as demand and supply capacity, price factors and exchange rate, the authors examine the determinants of REC.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors calculated three different REC indexes. The authors also developed the relative symmetric export competitiveness index for comparative advantage calculation and avoiding the possible bias. The determinants of REC for Nigerian cocoa were captured using the short-run regression (SRR) model.

Findings

The study showed that Nigeria’s cocoa exports are still competitive despite experiencing some declining stages. Based on the SRR model, higher per capita income had a positive effect on the REC, while higher domestic prices significantly reduced the REC of cocoa. Further, the African Growth Opportunity Act agreement adversely affected the REC of cocoa.

Originality/value

This study provides a foundation for future research and enhances the literature on agricultural trade. This research makes a few contributions both from a scientific and a policy perspective. First, it is the first study on the REC analysis for the Nigerian cocoa industry. Second, a wide range of comparisons of REC among the world’s largest cocoa exporters was provided following implications of the various economic policies and local policy strategies. Third, the latest 24-year data sets were covered.
Corporate social responsibility, green innovation and competitiveness – causality in manufacturing
Authors: Padilla-Lozano Carmen Paola , Collazzo Pablo
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the interplay of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and green innovation in boosting competitiveness in manufacturing in an emerging market context. This study adds green innovation as mediator in the relationship between CSR and competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

A model with three second-order constructs is developed and tested, in a sample of 325 managers from manufacturing companies in Ecuador, using quantitative and cross-section methods.

Findings

After obtaining adjusted and validated measurement models, a structural equation model was conducted, where the main hypotheses were confirmed, providing empirical evidence that CSR and green innovation significantly influence manufacturing competitiveness in a developing economy.

Research limitations/implications

This study considers only manufacturing companies in Ecuador, focusing on CSR practices in a single territorial case study. It arguably contributes to reinforce the business case for CSR, with new evidence on the causal relationships between CSR, green innovation and competitiveness, in the context of emerging market manufacturing industries. Although the literature often points at a positive relationship between CSR and firm-level competitiveness, supporting empirical evidence remains scarce. This model, introducing green innovation as mediator in the relationship between CSR and competitiveness in developing markets, accounts for a novel theoretical approach.

Practical implications

The findings are consistent with previous research, reporting the positive influence of CSR activities on organizational competitiveness, reducing risks and cost structures, as well as improving the relationship with employees, enhancing talent attraction, retention and productivity. Incorporating formal CSR tools to the model allowed us to highlight the relevance of ‘green’ certifications as a means to provide a competitive edge, along with increased bargaining power in the supply chain, resulting in competitiveness gains. The findings on the role of green innovation suggest a transition from cost-savings to a more strategic leverage on responsible innovation as a source of competitive advantage.

Social implications

Additionally, this research contributes to shed light on the impact of green processes and product innovations on social and environmental performance, providing evidence of a more efficient use of energy and natural resources, increasing productivity and by extension, profitability. CSR shapes an innovation culture that, through the use of social, environmental and sustainability controllers, can create new business models, products, services or processes that boost both firm-level and supply chain productivity, benefits that eventually spill over to the host community.

Originality/value

This study aims at bridging the research gap on the interplay of CSR, green innovation and competitiveness in manufacturing in an emerging market context.
Analysis, design and experimentation of high-pass negative group delay lumped circuit
Authors: Du Hongyu , Yang Rong , Gu Taochen , Zhou Xiang , Yazdani Samar , Sambatra Eric , Wan Fayu , Lallechere Sébastien , Ravelo Blaise
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce an innovative theoretical, numerical and experimental investigations on the HP NGD function. The identified HP NGD topology under study is constituted by first order passive RC-network. The simulations and measurements confirm in very good agreement the HP NGD behaviors of the tested circuits. NGD responses with optimal values of about -1 ns and cut-off frequencies of about 20 MHz are obtained.

Design/methodology/approach

The identified HP NGD topology understudy is constituted by a first-order passive Resistor-capacitor RC network. An innovative approach to HP NGD analysis is developed. The analytical investigation from the voltage transfer function showing the meaning of HP properties is established.

Findings

This paper introduces innovative theoretical, numerical and experimental investigations on the HP NGD function.

Originality/value

The NGD characterization as a function of the resistance and capacitance parameters is investigated. The feasibility of the HP NGD function is verified with proofs of concept constituted of lumped surface mounted components on printed circuit boards. The simulations and measurements confirm in very good agreement the HP NGD behaviors of the tested circuits. NGD responses with optimal values of about −1 ns and cut-off frequencies of about 20 MHz are obtained.
Linearisation of flow sensors using evolutionary optimised function-based methods
Authors: J. Babitha Thangamalar , A. Abudhahir
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims to propose optimised function-based evolutionary algorithms in this research to effectively replace the traditional electronic circuitry used in linearising constant temperature anemometer (CTA) and Microbridge mass flow sensor AWM 5000.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed linearisation technique effectively uses the ratiometric function for the linearisation of CTA and Microbridge mass flow sensor AWM 5000. In addition, the well-known transfer relation, namely, the King’s Law is used for the linearisation of CTA and successfully implemented using LabVIEW 7.1.

Findings

Investigational results unveil that the proposed evolutionary optimised linearisation technique performs better in linearisation of both CTA and Mass flow sensors, and hence finds applications for computer-based flow measurement/control systems.

Originality/value

The evolutionary optimisation algorithms such as the real-coded genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimisation algorithm, differential evolution algorithm and covariance matrix adopted evolutionary strategy algorithm are used to determine the optimal values of the parameters present in the proposed ratiometric function. The performance measures, namely, the full-scale error and mean square error are used to analyse the overall performance of the proposed approach is compared to a state of art techniques available in the literature.
A novel multi-input DC-DC landsman converter for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles
Authors: Maria Lucas Antony Freeda Rani , Durairaj Subbulekshmi
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to develop high accurate and unified maximum power point tracking technique that tracks the maximum power from both the photovoltaic (PV) array and wind energy conversion system, (an unified maximum power point tracking technique implemented for both wind and solar sources to track maximum power with higher accuracy).

Design/methodology/approach

In recent times, multi-input Direct Current- Direct Current (DC-DC) converter has attracted attentiveness, to conserve more energy and to achieve more efficiency. The kinetic energy of the vehicle is converted to electrical energy and further stored into the battery, during the regenerative braking (moreover, the battery gets charged during the regenerative braking process by converting the kinetic energy of the vehicle into electrical energy). During such a process, only the pulse width modulation schemes of the inverter are changed. To charge electric vehicles (EVs), two renewable resources as solar and wind are combined to produce electric power. Therefore, it was conveyed that the EV will be continuously getting power without interruption using various sources and regenerated power.

Findings

The performance and effectiveness of the proposed system are studied by extensive simulations and (are) validated using a prototype of the system. The results prove that the proposed system achieves an efficiency of 95.2%, which is higher than that of the multi-input DC-DC converters existing in the literature.

Originality/value

A novel multi-input DC-DC landsman converter for powering plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) is proposed in the research. This method proposes a new cost effective and efficient technique for HEVs with brushless DC motors. Wind power, battery and PV panel are used as the input sources for the proposed converter.
Residential building defects investigation and mitigation – a comparative review in Victoria, Australia, for understanding the way forward
Authors: Sandanayake Malindu , Yang Wei , Chhibba Namita , Vrcelj Zora
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The issue of building defects is a growing concern that affects all major construction stakeholders as a result of costs and time implications of reworks. The magnitude of the problem is severe with statistics highlighting defects often result in 4% of the total cost of construction of a building. Despite the importance of this problem, studies have seldom considered development of systematic approaches to enhance the quality control process in construction.

Design/methodology/approach

Building defects is a growing concern that affects all major construction stakeholders because of costs and time implications of reworks. Magnitude of the problem is severe with statistics highlighting defects often result in 4% of the total cost of construction of a building. Despite the importance, studies have seldom considered development of systematic approaches to enhance the quality control process in construction.

Findings

Results indicated that poor workmanship is the main cause of building defects and incomplete works is a frequently detected defect type. Results categorised defects based on cost and frequency to identify the severity. Findings also identified four focus areas including control measures, technology use audit and inspections and promotion of best knowledge.

Research limitations/implications

The study lacks generalisation as it covers only Victorian scenario and further studies are needed to generalise the findings.

Originality/value

The study provides a deeper understanding of the challenges currently facing the residential construction industry in Victoria, Australia, and underlines the need for developing quantitative models and methodologies to improve current processes, practices and policies for effective defects minimisation in Victoria, Australia. The systematic methodological framework can also be adopted by researches across the globe to effectively analyse the options for minimising residential building defects.
Designing an accommodation strategy: findings from an architecture school
Authors: Riratanaphong Chaiwat
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore the need for space (demand) and the provision thereof (supply) in the Faculty of Architecture building at Thammasat University Rangsit campus using variables from the designing an accommodation strategy (DAS) framework; these variables are incorporated to test and improve the framework. Another purpose is to examine the planning and development of the faculty building to understand its strategy, which serves as a means to contribute to the planning and development theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study of the Faculty of Architecture building was conducted at Thammasat University in Thailand. The DAS framework was used to reconstruct and examine the development process of the building to determine the gaps between supply and demand in terms of building space, to reflect on the building plan and process and to make suggestions as to how the DAS framework might be improved. Research methods included interviews and document analysis concerning space requirements and provision in the Faculty of Architecture building.

Findings

The gaps between supply and demand in terms of the faculty building space are affected by the condition of the building (i.e. building obsolescence), the number of building users and the changing environmental context. This study shows that both pre-design and post-occupancy evaluation are essential to collect data concerning the match or mismatch between supply and demand of space and to assess users’ needs and preferences concerning the faculty building. Regarding the building development process, factors impacting the step-by-step planning of the real estate interventions include the organisational context (public/private sector) and the management of the construction project (time, cost, quality). The DAS framework is found to be useful for structuring the information-generating processes necessary to determine gaps between demand and supply in terms of space and for making decisions regarding real estate interventions.

Research limitations/implications

Additional case studies in different environmental and organisational contexts are required to test the DAS framework and improve data validity. This study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic period, which affected data accessibility.

Practical implications

The results provide insight into the influence of various factors on the decision of corporate real estate. The DAS framework can be used to explore the range of demand for and supply of space and to find an optimal match.

Originality/value

This paper shows valuable steps in planning and development of educational real estate and a first application of the DAS framework in Thailand. The findings confirm the importance of the physical learning environment of architecture schools, particularly the studio spaces required in architecture education.
The feasibility of artificial intelligence performing as CEO: the vizier-shah theory
Authors: Ünal Aslıhan , Kılınç İzzet
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the feasibility of artificial intelligence (AI) performing as chief executive officer (CEO) in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors followed an explorative research design – classic grounded theory methodology. The authors conducted face-to-face interviews with 27 participants that were selected according to theoretical sampling. The sample consisted of academics from the fields of AI, philosophy and management; experts and artists performing in the field of AI and professionals from the business world.

Findings

As a result of the grounded theory process “The Vizier-Shah Theory” emerged. The theory consisted of five theoretical categories: narrow AI, hard problems, debates, solutions and AI-CEO. The category “AI as a CEO” introduces four futuristic AI-CEO models.

Originality/value

This study introduces an original theory that explains the evolution process of narrow AI to AI-CEO. The theory handles the issue from an interdisciplinary perspective by following an exploratory research design – classic grounded theory and provides insights for future research.
Illegitimate tasks: obstacles to trans equality at work
Authors: García Johnson Carolina Pía , Otto Kathleen
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between the reported frequency of illegitimate tasks undertaken at work (FREQIT) and gender identity among cisgender individuals and persons with a (?) transgender or gender non-conforming (TGNC) identity.

Design/methodology/approach

This research combines an experimental approach with a field-study. Study 1 contained a vignette experiment where participants reported their likelihood to assign illegitimate tasks (IT) to either a cisgender or a TGNC employee. Study 2 measured perceptions of tasks-illegitimacy (PERTI), FREQIT, perceptions of organisational gender climate (PGC), burnout and intention to quit among a sample of cisgender and TGNC participants.

Findings

In Study 1, individuals in a supervisory position were more likely to assign IT to TGNC than cisgender employees. In Study 2, gender identity influenced burnout, intentions to quit and PGC, serially mediated by PERTI and FREQIT. The results from Study 2 did not support the initial model, which proposed that lower PERTI would lead TGNC employees to report a higher FREQIT, leading to lower occupational well-being scores. Instead, TGNC participants’ burnout, intention to quit and PGC scores improved as a consequence of their lower PERTI. However, when comparing cisgender and TGNC individuals, the latter presented higher levels of burnout, intentions to quit and lower PGC scores.

Originality/value

This is the first study measuring the effects of IT on TGNC individuals’ occupational well-being. It underscores the importance to reduce cisgender biases and transphobia and to address IT as obstacles to trans equality in the workplace.
The transition of a socio-technical system to a smart grid: illustrated with the Indian electricity network
Authors: Kompella Lakshminarayana
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to explain transitions in a socio-technical system characterized by non-economic entities that influence economic activity, i.e. embeddedness and coalitions. The selected socio-technical system is an Indian electric network with an interventionist policy. Its embeddedness and coalitions drive the transition. The insights from such analysis expand socio-technical transition theory and provide valuable insights to practitioners in their policymaking.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors need to observe the effects of non-economic institutions in their setting. Moreover, in India, the regional policies influence decision-making; therefore, selected two Indian states. The two Indian states, along with their non-economic entities, provided diverse analytic and heuristic views.

Findings

The findings show that coalitions, with their embeddedness in the absence of any mediating policy systems, act as external pressures and influence innovation and the socio-technical system’s transition trajectory. Their coalitions’ embeddedness follows a shaping, not selection logic. Thereby influence innovations in cumulating as stable designs. Such an approach provides benefits in the short-term but not in the long-term.

Research limitations/implications

The study selected two states and examined two of the four trajectories. By considering other states, the authors can obtain more renewable energy investments and further insights into the transformational trajectory.

Practical implications

The study highlights the coalition dynamics specific to the Indian electric power network and its transition trajectories. The non-economic entities influenced transition trajectories, innovation and policymaking of the socio-technical system.

Originality/value

The study expands the socio-technical transition theory by including embeddedness. The embeddedness brings a shaping logic instead of a selection logic.
Unlocking the investment impact of biomass energy utilization on environmental degradation for an isolated island
Authors: Gyamfi Bright Akwasi , Q. Agozie Divine , A. Bein Murad , Bekun Festus Victor , Fatai Adedoyin Festus
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Discussions on environment-friendly production connected with the concerns of growing biomass emissions have gained much attention. In this regard, this study aims to explore the issue of biomass energy consumption and its related emission effects on the economic and environmental well-being of the economy of Cyprus.

Design/methodology/approach

This study sources time series data on specific variables from the Global Material Flow and the World Bank’s World Development Indicators (WDI, 2020) between 1990 and 2016. The Robust least square (ROB-L2) in conjunction with Pesaran autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) methodology analysis techniques was used in addition to the Granger causality tests to examine the direction of causality flow between the variables under consideration.

Findings

The results indicate that biomass energy usage in the long run reduces pollution and negatively correlates with CO2 emissions level. Also, the decline of emission is influenced by increased foreign direct investment (FDI), thus, activities of foreign investors contribute to combating emission in the country. According to empirical results, non-renewable energy consumption showed both positive and negative influences on increased emission level, whereas economic growth is increasing carbon dioxide emission for the case of Cyprus.

Originality/value

This study applies current reliable data that offers renewed insights and sheds light on the state of affairs on biomass utilization from a developing country perspective. Additionally, it extends the discourse on the impact of biomass utilization on CO2 emissions by considering the impact of FDI, trade flow and energy consumption in a carbon-income function built on the liner version of the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis. Although this is by no means exhaustive, the study pioneers the discourse on how FDI with biomass utilization among other relevant variables influences carbon dioxide emission.
Evolution of artificial intelligence and its impact on human rights: from sociolegal perspective
Authors: Chatterjee Sheshadri , N.S. Sreenivasulu , Hussain Zahid
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in different sectors have become agendas for discussions in the highest circle of experts. The applications of AI can help society and can harm society even by jeopardizing human rights. The purpose of this study is to examine the evolution of AI and its impacts on human rights from social and legal perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

With the help of studies of literature and different other AI and human rights-related reports, this study has taken an attempt to provide a comprehensive and executable framework to address these challenges contemplated to occur due to the increase in usage of different AI applications in the context of human rights.

Findings

This study finds out how different AI applications could help society and harm society. It also highlighted different legal issues and associated complexity arising due to the advancement of AI technology. Finally, the study also provided few recommendations to the governments, private enterprises and non-governmental organizations on the usage of different AI applications in their organizations.

Research limitations/implications

This study mostly deals with the legal, social and business-related issues arising due to the advancement of AI technology. The study does not penetrate the technological aspects and algorithms used in AI applications. Policymakers, government agencies and private entities, as well as practitioners could take the help of the recommendations provided in this study to formulate appropriate regulations to control the usage of AI technology and its applications.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive view of the emergence of AI technology and its implication on human rights. There are only a few studies that examine AI and related human rights issues from social, legal and business perspectives. Thus, this study is claimed to be a unique study. Also, this study provides valuable inputs to the government agencies, policymakers and practitioners about the need to formulate a comprehensive regulation to control the usage of AI technology which is also another unique contribution of this study.