bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A cryo-EM grid preparation device for time-resolved structural studies
Authors: Kontziampasis Dimitrios , Klebl David P. , Iadanza Matthew G. , Scarff Charlotte A. , Kopf Florian , Sobott Frank , Monteiro Diana C. F. , Trebbin Martin , Muench Stephen P. , White Howard D.
Published: September 2019

Structural biology generally provides static snapshots of protein conformations that can provide information on the functional mechanisms of biological systems. Time-resolved structural biology provides a means to visualize, at near-atomic resolution, the dynamic conformational changes that macromolecules undergo as they function. X-ray free-electron-laser technology has provided a powerful tool to study enzyme mechanisms at atomic resolution, typically in the femtosecond to picosecond timeframe. Complementary to this, recent advances in the resolution obtainable by electron microscopy and the broad range of samples that can be studied make it ideally suited to time-resolved approaches in the microsecond to millisecond timeframe to study large loop and domain motions in biomolecules. Here we describe a cryo-EM grid preparation device that permits rapid mixing, voltage-assisted spraying and vitrification of samples. It is shown that the device produces grids of sufficient ice quality to enable data collection from single grids that results in a sub-4 Å reconstruction. Rapid mixing can be achieved by blot-and-spray or mix-and-spray approaches with a delay of ∼10 ms, providing greater temporal resolution than previously reported mix-and-spray approaches.
Stock returns and financial performance as mediation variables in the influence of good corporate governance on corporate value
Authors: Kurniati Suhadak
Published: September 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the influence of good governance on corporate value, in which the stock returns and financial performance act as the mediator of the relationship among them.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was conducted on companies go public listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange and was included in 2011 to 2017 LQ45 index list, with samples taking a purposive sampling approach through four criteria. Data analysis using WarpPLS with indicator approaches are formative (mutually exclusive between indicators).

Findings

The findings are as follows: good corporate governance has a significant influence on stock returns in a negative direction; good corporate governance has no significant influence on financial performance; good corporate governance has no significant influence on company value; stock returns have a significant influence on financial performance in a positive direction; financial performance has a significant influence on stock returns with a positive direction; stock returns significantly influence the value of the company in a positive direction; financial performance has a significant influence on the company value in a positive direction.

Originality/value

The novelty in this study is that the relationship between stock returns and financial performance is reciprocal, which is the relationship among variables that affect each other (back and forth causality), in which in the previous study, the relationship between variables is only one direction; besides, the previous study conducted an analysis to find out the influence of good corporate on stock returns, company value and financial performance separately, with mixed results.
Office employee satisfaction: the influence of design factors on psychological user satisfaction
Authors: Kwon Minyoung , Remøy Hilde
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Employees’ satisfaction and productivity is one of the main interests of employers. Psychological comfort can cause dissatisfaction with their work. Thus, it is important to understand what factors contribute to employees’ satisfaction in workplaces. The purpose of this paper is to identify the weight of contribution of each design parameter on increasing psychological satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The study included 579 employees in five offices in The Netherlands through an online survey. The typologies of offices vary in terms of office layouts, orientations and façade. Additionally, a parameter of desk location was included as this factor may be associated with user satisfaction. Kruskal–Wallis H test, categorical regression, and logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the impact of these design parameters on psychological user satisfaction.

Findings

The results revealed the impact of design parameters on the psychological satisfaction. The parameters of office layouts and desk locations were the significant predictor factors for the probability of satisfaction variables (e.g. privacy, concentration, communication, social contact and territoriality). The parameters for optimal satisfaction were found in cellular office, north-west oriented workstation and 4 m away from a window.

Originality/value

Psychological comfort is an inevitable aspect in user satisfaction studies. This paper, therefore, measures and predicts the relationship between design factors and employees’ satisfaction through case studies in The Netherlands. The findings help designers, architects, planners and facility managers to develop user-focussed office design principles supporting employees’ work performance.
A holistic framework with user-centred facilities performance attributes for evaluating higher education buildings
Authors: Abisuga Abiodun Olatunji , Wang Cynthia Changxin , Sunindijo Riza Yosia
Published: September 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to identify user-centred facilities performance attributes of higher education buildings and how they can be used to evaluate individual learning spaces. These attributes are then consolidated for developing a post-occupancy evaluation (POE) framework in this context.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review of the literature on the POE of higher education buildings is conducted.

Findings

This study identifies 36 facility performance attributes in higher education buildings, which can be categorised into four dimensions: ambient; spatial; technology; and building support and services requirements. These facility performance attributes need to meet user requirements to achieve satisfactory feedback. It is also important to note that user requirements differ from one learning space to another; thus, it is essential to consider the characteristics of individual learning spaces.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed evaluation framework is context-based and may not be suitable to evaluate other types of buildings. It may be further extended and enhanced to meet other facility management evaluation needs.

Practical implications

The POE framework developed in this research can be used to generate facilities management analytic to inform future design and improve existing higher education facilities.

Originality/value

This research has developed a holistic POE framework tool to meet user requirements in higher education buildings.
On-campus university student housing facility services prioritisation framework
Authors: Simpeh Fredrick , Shakantu Winston
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a prioritisation framework that can guide the provision and management of on-campus student housing facility (SHF) services of southern Ghana Universities.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopted a phenomenological research strategy. Data was collected by means of focus group discussions (FGDs); a total of ten FGDs were conducted. Observations were also done during the site visit to augment the FGDs. The data were analysed thematically.

Findings

The study found that some services are perceived as “extremely important” and “basic” while others are seen as “unimportant” and “indifferent”. Services including; electricity, water, security, internet, cleaning service, maintenance service, generator, ventilation (fan), health service, library service, electric socket, study furniture, refuse collection, pest control and fire extinguisher were perceived by students as “extremely important”. However, not all of these services were perceived as “basic” requirements.

Practical implications

The framework can be used as a guide by facility and hostel managers to effectively prioritise and manage the services required in a university SHF. Moreover, when designing, constructing and adapting student housing facilities, the framework can be used as a guide to ensure that all critical services are provided in the student housing facilities.

Originality/value

Although several studies have been conducted on student housing, studies that specifically focuses on the services required in a SHF and the prioritisation of such services is lacking. This study combines students’ requirements, importance levels of requirements, and classification of requirements to develop a prioritisation system for student housing services.
The gay archival impulse: the founding of the Gerber/Hart library and archives in Chicago
Authors: Bettine Aiden M. , Mattock Lindsay Kistler
Published: September 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the concept of community archives, offering a critique of the community archives discourse through a historical case study focused on the origins of the Gerber/Hart LGBTQ library and archives in Chicago.

Design/methodology/approach

This study explores the archival collections of the founders of the Gerber/Hart library and archives and the librarians that have worked there as a means for understanding the origins of the archival impulse, the rationale for building the collections and the practices that shaped the collections during the first decade of the organization’s history.

Findings

The historical analysis of the Gerber/Hart library and archives situates community archives and LGBTQ collections within the broader historical context that lead to the founding of the organization and reveals deep connections to the information professions not previously considered by those studying community archives.

Originality/value

The paper offers a reconceptualization of community archives as archival projects initiated, controlled and maintained by the members of a self-defined community. The authors emphasize the role of the archival impulse or the historical origins of the collection and the necessity for full-community control, setting clear boundaries between community archives and other participatory archival models that engage the community.
OHAM analysis for dissipative viscoelastic nanofluid considering entropy generation and activation energy
Authors: Gulzar M. Mudassar , Jabeen Shagufta , Waqas Muhammad , Shehzad Sabir Ali , Hayat Tasawar , Alsaedi Ahmed
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to scrutinize the effects of entropy generation and nonlinear mixed convection on the boundary layer flow of second grade fluid induced by stretching sheets. Heat transfer effects are accounted in view of viscous dissipation and nonlinear thermal radiation.

Design/methodology/approach

Optimal homotopic asymptotic method procedure is adopted to obtain the analytical solution of nonlinear ordinary differential equations.

Findings

It has been noticed that Hartmann and Brinkman number has reverse characteristics against entropy generation and Bejan number.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no such analysis has been reported to date.
Painlevé analysis for three integrable shallow water waves equations with time-dependent coefficients
Authors: Wazwaz Abdul-Majid
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is concerned with investigating three integrable shallow water waves equations with time-dependent coefficients. The author obtains multiple soliton solutions and multiple complex soliton solutions for these three models.

Design/methodology/approach

The newly developed equations with time-dependent coefficients have been handled by using Hirota’s direct method. The author also uses the complex Hirota’s criteria for deriving multiple complex soliton solutions.

Findings

The developed integrable models exhibit complete integrability for any analytic time-dependent coefficients defined though compatibility conditions.

Research limitations/implications

The paper presents an efficient algorithm for handling time-dependent integrable equations with analytic time-dependent coefficients.

Practical implications

This study introduces three new integrable shallow water waves equations with time-dependent coefficients. These models represent more specific data than the related equations with constant coefficients. The author shows that integrable equations with time-dependent coefficients give real and complex soliton solutions.

Social implications

The paper presents useful algorithms for finding integrable equations with time-dependent coefficients.

Originality/value

The paper presents an original work with a variety of useful findings.
The willingness to disclose personal information
Authors: Al-Jabri Ibrahim M. , Eid Mustafa I. , Abed Amer
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Customer privacy and security are major concerns. Online firms worldwide collect customer data for various reasons. This study aims to investigate factors that motivate and hinder a customer’s willingness to disclose personal information (WTD) to online firms on e-commerce websites.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an extensive literature review, three sets of factors have been identified. These sets of factors are privacy concern, perceived disclosure benefits and privacy assurances. It is hypothesized that privacy concerns negatively affect the disclosure of personal information, while the perceived benefits of disclosure have positive effects. Privacy assurances would positively affect information disclosure and attenuate the negative effect of privacy concerns on the disclosure of personal information. The authors gathered data from 253 online customers in Saudi Arabia.

Findings

The results indicate that perceived disclosure benefits and privacy concerns have a significant positive and negative relationship, respectively, with WTD online. Privacy assurances had neither a direct nor a moderating effect on information disclosure.

Research limitations/implications

The findings will inform online firms about the factors that prevent or motivate customers to disclose personal information.

Originality/value

The effect of privacy concerns and benefits on personal information disclosure are not fully understood in Saudi Arabia. This study reveals more insights into the specific factors that make online customers reluctant or motivated to disclose their personal information.
Path planning based on map matching in UAV/UGV collaboration system
Authors: Huo Jianwen , Zenkevich Stanislav Leonidovich , Nazarova Anaid Vartanovna , Zhai Meixin
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Unmanned aerial/ground vehicles (UAV/UGV) collaboration systems are increasingly being used to perform reconnaissance and rescue missions autonomously, especially in disaster areas. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

To improve visibility, this study proposes a path-planning algorithm based on map matching. Continuous ground images are first collected aerially using the UAV vision system. Subsequently, a global map of the ground environment is created by processing the collected images using the methods of image correction, image mosaic and obstacle recognition. The local map of the ground environment is obtained using the 2D laser radar sensor of the UGV. A set of features for both global and local maps is established. Unknown values during map matching are determined via the least squares method. Based on the matched mapping, the traditional A* algorithm is used for the planning of global path in the global map, and the dynamic window method is used for adjustment of the local map.

Findings

Simulation experiments were carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can construct a global map of the wide environment and effectively bypass the obstacles missed by the UAV.

Research limitations/implications

Prior to map matching, there is a need to extract the edge of obstacles in the global map.

Originality/value

This paper proposed a path planning algorithm based on map matching, yielding insights into the application of the UAV/UGV collaboration systems in disaster areas.
Next decision node (NDN) planning: an ambidextrous planning model
Authors: Usher Greg S.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address calls from within the existing literature for a planning model that can provide both control and flexibility in dynamic environments.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopts a two-phase grounded theory methodology. Phase I tests a hypothesis through a structured online survey. Phase II tests a new planning model through a focus group and an online survey.

Findings

This research finds that client-side project managers misapply rational planning tools when managing construction projects. It also finds that the planning artefacts created in the initial stages of a project are used as a communication tool, rather than a controlling or monitoring tool. These findings provide an opportunity for new planning models, such as the (next decision node) NDN model, to be adopted. These planning tools can create new levels of transparency and accountability within the planning process – as well as provide a model which is more closely aligned with the practitioners “lived experience”.

Research limitations/implications

The NDN model provides a foundation for further research into the micro-mechanisms of organisational ambidexterity in projects and refinement of the NDN model.

Practical implications

This research presents a new planning model which practitioners can adopt when delivering construction projects.

Originality/value

This paper presents a new, ambidextrous planning model grounded on the “lived experience” of client-side project managers.
An empirical assessment of relational contracting model for supply chain of construction projects
Authors: Jagtap Milind , Kamble Sachin
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how the client–contractor relationship affects the project performance in light the theory of relational contracting. The empirical study evaluates the effect of project trust (PT) mediating through the dyadic factors and procurement-specific factors (PSFs) on the project performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Research design is carried out in three phases. The first phase of review of literature has identified the key constructs of the study and the conceptual model is formulated. Subsequently, the constructs of the study are validated through expert opinion and pilot study. In the third phase, the questionnaire of the study is administered on 320 samples in various cities of India. The exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis is carried out on the two different sample sizes. The structural equation model is finally tested with satisfactory fit.

Findings

PT not only improves the dyad factors in construction supply chain (CSC), but also influences the project performance. However, project risk and relationship commitment are not associated with enhancing project performance directly. PSFs and dyad factors are the two mediators in transforming PT into relationship commitment and project performance. Client-led supply chain initiatives and contractor-led supply chain initiatives differ in the CSC.

Research limitations/implications

The present research has employed behavioral data to understand the effect of project procurement on project performance. Nevertheless, future studies should use objective data to support the constructs of the study. This study outlines the common and socially rooted relational governance of the project. This study is useful to the clients, contractors and policy makers in understanding the interplay of various control mechanisms to ease the procurement of large and complex construction projects. Future studies should focus on separating client-led control mechanisms and contractor-led control mechanisms of the relational contracting and its effect on project performance.

Originality/value

The research study contributes in formalizing the governance structure of supply chain in dealing with the complex construction projects. The study has contributed in understanding the client-led initiatives and contractor-led supply initiatives of establishing the supply chain of construction projects. It has demonstrated the mediating role of dyadic factors and PSFs in improving the project performance.
BIM mediation and users’ behavior
Authors: Voordijk Hans , Sloot Ruth
Published: September 2019

Purpose

With building information modeling’s increasing influence, it becomes important to analyze building information model (BIM)’s impact on users’ behavior. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to explore BIM’s influence on users’ behavior, using the innovative philosophy of technical mediation. This philosophy implies that perceptions and actions are always, to some degree, constituted and transformed by technologies. The question in this study is how the perceptions and actions of users are mediated by BIM.

Design/methodology/approach

A framework developed by Dorrestijn to assess the impacts of technology is used to explore the different types of impact that BIM has on the perceptions and actions of its users. Through a literature review, this framework is used to categorize the mediating effects of BIM. Following this, expert interviews, a workshop and user interviews explore these effects in practice.

Findings

Based on Dorrestijn’s framework, it is concluded that guidance and persuasion are important mediating effects of BIM. BIM also impacts the human decision-process through coercive pressures to implement BIM and to embody BIM through acquiring skills.

Originality/value

With the increasing influence of BIM, analyzing its impact on users’ behavior becomes increasingly relevant. This is the first study to use the technical mediation approach to analyze this impact. In this approach, humans and technologies are seen as interacting with and co-shaping each other.
Understanding the components of profitability and productivity change at the micro level
Authors: Wiech Bernd Andreas , Kourouklis Athanassios , Johnston James
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a refined framework providing clarity in terms of the components of profitability and productivity change from the perspective of the firm level.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature is analysed with a scoping study and a systematic literature review. Productivity measurement approaches are compared using data at the product level.

Findings

The definition of total factor productivity (TFP) in the literature negatively affects the accuracy of profitability and productivity measurement. In the usual case of a dynamic output mix, TFP change encompasses biasing output mix effects relating to profitability, but not to productivity change. Therefore, this paper defines changes of a ratio of output quantities to input quantities not as TFP change, but as quantitative profitability (QP) change. A framework is proposed decomposing profitability change into price recovery and QP change, whereas the latter comprises of valid productivity change (encompassing technological, technical efficiency and productivity-related scale effects) and output mix change (encompassing proportion, quality, output switching and profitability-related scale effects).

Research limitations/implications

Future research should include literature from the industrial organisation field of economics. The presented framework should be transferred to the standard production function framework used in economics.

Practical implications

The paper can help preventing faulty decision making or distrust due to the use of biased profitability or productivity indicators. TFP-based productivity indicators are unsuitable for most firms. To measure productivity meaningfully, firms should use adequate approaches (e.g. standard input- or adjusted total factor productivity-based ones).

Originality/value

The paper contributes to a more accurate performance measurement approach, as researchers and practitioners better understand the components of profitability and productivity change.
Tensile and wettability properties of electrospun polycaprolactone coated with pectin/polyaniline composite for drug delivery application
Authors: Hamzah Mohd Syahir Anwar , Austad Azhan , Razak Saiful Izwan Abd , Nayan Nadirul Hasraf Mat
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Over the years, electrical stimulation in drug delivery system holds particular interest in producing spatially and temporally controlled release mechanism. These systems helped in localized doses drugs to be administrated and response efficiently at target site to achieve excellent healing effect in control microenvironment. Extensive research is needed in order to develop versatile electroactive biomaterials in the field of therapeutics applications. This paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This work reports the development of polycaprolactone (PCL) electrospun coated with pectin/polyaniline (PANi) composite, which has been characterized and whose drug delivery application is ascertained. The composite has been characterized on its mechanical conductivity and wettability properties to evaluate best formulation. The analysis on morphological properties using scanning electron microscope (SEM) confirmed the formation of the dual-layer electro-responsive composite.

Findings

Among different formulations studied, the pectin/PANi composition (12 percent/3 percent) was found to be an optimized composition with ultimate tensile strength of 55.48±0.65 MPa and modulus strength of 63.30±0.43 MPa with 2.41×10–3 Scm−1 electrical percolation. The hydrophobic PCL electrospun reduced as coating material was introduced on top with optimum of 85.3 percent degree of swelling and water contact angle at 39.17±0.67°. SEM micrograph revealed strong interaction between dual-layer structures with interconnected porous of uniform fibers.

Originality/value

Overall, these data present a multiangle initial characterization of this novel dual-layer electro-responsive composite for applications in drug delivery. However, additional analysis should be performed in order to provide a clear verification as drug delivery scaffold.
The dominance of water on lubrication properties of articular joints
Authors: Göçerler Hakan , Pfeil Bernhard , Franek Friedrich , Bauer Christoph , Niculescu-Morzsa Eugenia , Nehrer Stefan
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The paper aims to focus on the individual contribution of water to the lubrication regimes in articular joints because understanding of these regimes is crucial not only for the treatment of diseases like osteoarthritis but also for the development of new implants to have a longer service cycle.

Design/methodology/approach

Cartilage specimen and the synovial fluid were both isolated from bovine knee joints that are enclosed by a synovial membrane under sterile conditions of a biosafety Level 2 (BSL2) cabinet. Subchondral bone was removed from the cartilage because it not only creates a stable base to place the specimen on the holder, but it also acts as a primary shock absorber protecting the overlaying cartilage under high-impact loads. A specimen holder specially designed for tests and was attached to the linear oscillation (SRV) test machine. The SRV test machine provides a reciprocating sliding motion between the cartilage samples that are submerged into the selected biological media. The entire system can be mounted on the BSL2 cabinet, sealed with the convoluted gaiter and transported to the SRV machine with a specifically designed handle for the entire system. The process ensures sterile conditions for tests on biological samples that are highly sensitive to the environmental conditions.

Findings

A remarkably low coefficient of friction value for distilled water constitutes more evidence to support the assumption of the impact of water in the friction behaviour of the cartilage-against-cartilage contact. As the fluid in articular cartilage (AC) effectively serves as a synovial fluid reserve and 70-80 per cent of its composition is distilled water, it can be stated that the tribotest system mimics the natural working conditions of an actual knee joint adequately.

Research limitations/implications

Time and limited availability of the animal-driven samples led to a focus on certain parameters mentioned in the approach. A planned scan of parameter matrix, such as variation of load and speed, would allow deeper knowledge on the lubrication regimes.

Practical implications

Study of relevant tribological contact in human joints might give ideas on new designs for artificial joints.

Social implications

Understanding of lubrication regimes is crucial not only for the treatment of diseases like osteoarthritis but also for the development of new implants to adapt motion of related joint.

Originality/value

Exclusion of water and application as the primary lubricant in the test system brings a new perspective to joint lubrication.
The ecomuseum and solidarity tourism: a case study from northeast Turkey
Authors: Doğan Mustafa
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between the ecomuseum and solidarity tourism and to measure their impact on community development.

Design/methodology/approach

The study presented here adopts two methods for collecting qualitative data: in-depth interviews and observations. The total number of village households was 42 and the number of households that hosted tourists in their home was 20. Due to the exploratory nature of this study, qualitative methods were employed in the form of lengthy interviews with 13 residents.

Findings

The findings indicate that tourism for the Bogatepe Village ecomuseum has focused on a solidarity perspective which has provided significant benefits to the community ensuring local sustainable development. The ecomuseum as a concept and a destination has helped to control tourism and strengthened the impact of solidarity tourism on the local community.

Research limitations/implications

The research presented here must be seen as exploratory. More generally, further research is needed to look at the possibility of developing this type of tourism in other rural areas and similar regions of Turkey (covering both small and large areas) with an important cultural heritage.

Originality/value

The combination of the ecomuseum and solidarity tourism can provide a sustainable solution for tourism in rural areas and provide a model in the development of tourism to other villages in Turkey. The question is whether it could also be used in larger rural areas. The study underlines that Bogatepe is certainly worthy of future study.
How do complementarity and discount choices interact with latitude of price acceptance in price bundling?
Authors: Saini Gordhan K. , Sahay Arvind , Kalyanaram Gurumurthy
Published: September 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to examine three important questions: What would be the effects of pricing at the lower end of a wide vs narrow latitude of price acceptance (LPA) on consumer choice of the bundle? How would the nature of a bundle frame (i.e. discount on bundle vs discount on components) and discount frame (i.e. discount as absolute off vs discount as percentage off) influence the preference given to a price level that is at the wide or narrow end of the LPA? Would the effect be significantly different if the bundle components were complementary vs if they were non-complementary?

Design/methodology/approach

The authors carried out two studies using between-subject experimental design. In Study 1, the authors used 2 (LPA: wide/narrow) × 2 (complementarity: yes/no) × 2 (bundle frame: together/separate) design, and in Study 2, the authors replaced bundle frame with discount frame (i.e. absolute off/percentage off).

Findings

The authors find that the LPA effect is likely to outweigh the complementarity effect; however, a combined effect of complementarity and bundle frame is stronger than the LPA effect. Also, for a wide (narrow) LPA product bundle, absolute off (percentage off) discount frame is more attractive.

Practical implications

Managers should use bundling strategy with complementary products having wider LPA. In case of wide LPA and complementary products, both together and separate frame could be the best bundling strategy while in case of narrow LPA and complementary products, together frame could be the best bundling strategy.

Originality/value

The main contribution relates to the role LPA plays in consumer evaluation of a bundle offer and its interaction with complementarity and discount frame. The authors apply the range hypothesis principles (i.e. price-attractiveness judgments are based on a comparison of market prices to the endpoints of a range of evoked prices) in the bundling context and extend the earlier work in the area of complementarity and discount frame.
Hybrid approach for solving the integrated planning and scheduling production problem
Authors: Ibn Majdoub Hassani Zineb , El Barkany Abdellah , Jabri Abdelouahhab , El Abbassi Ikram , Darcherif Abdel Moumen
Published: September 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to present a new model for solving the integrated production planning and scheduling. Usually, the two decision levels are treated sequentially because of their complexity. Scheduling depends on the lot sizes calculated at the tactical level and ignoring scheduling constraints generates unrealistic and inconsistent decisions. Therefore, integrating more detail scheduling constraint in production planning is important for managing efficiently operations. Therefore, an integrated model was developed, and two evolutionary optimization approaches were suggested for solving it, namely, genetic algorithm (GA) and the hybridization of simulated annealing (SA) with GA HSAGA. The proposed algorithms have some parameters that must be adjusted using Taguchi method. Therefore, to evaluate the proposed algorithm, the authors compared the results given by GA and the hybridization. The SA-based local search is embedded into a GA search mechanism to move the GA away from being closed within local optima. The analysis shows that the combination of simulated annealing with GA gives better solutions and minimizes the total production costs.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opted for an approached resolution method particularly GA and simulated annealing. The study represents a comparison between the results found using GA and the hybridization of simulated annealing and GA. A total of 45 instances were studied to evaluate job-shop problems of different sizes.

Findings

The results illustrate that for 36 instances of 45, the hybridization of simulated annealing and GA HSAGA has provided best production costs. The efficiency demonstrated by HSAGA approach is related to the combination between the exploration ability of GA and the capacity to escape local optimum of simulated annealing.

Originality/value

This study provides a new resolution approach to the integration of planning and scheduling while considering a new operational constrain. The model suggested aims to control the available capacity of the resources and guaranties that the resources to be consumed do not exceed the real availability to avoid the blocking that results from the unavailability of resources. Furthermore, to solve the MILP model, a GA is proposed and then it is combined to simulated annealing.
Interorganizational cooperation and process innovation
Authors: Pereira Rafael Morais , Borini Felipe Mendes , Oliveira Jr Moacir de Miranda
Published: September 2019

Purpose

In this paper, the authors investigate whether the location of interorganizational partners affects the outcomes of process innovation. Herein, the term partner location refers to multiple degrees of proximity or distance, including in the same national province or state, in other national provinces or states, in the same country and in foreign countries. The purpose of this paper is to show that partner location, whether domestic or foreign, depends on which partner an organization needs in order to advance its process innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the hypotheses, the authors employed a panel data regression model to analyze data from 28 Brazilian business sectors from 2003 to 2014, all collected for PINTEC: The Brazilian Survey of Technological Innovation, representing a total of 107,854 companies.

Findings

The results show that cooperation is significant with both national and foreign partners, even though they bear different effects on the various degrees of innovativeness related to process innovation.

Practical implications

For managerial practice, the results corroborate that the choice of partners has to be strategic and take their location into account. In particular, practices at the domestic level with suppliers and vocational training centers are relevant to increasing innovation at the micro level. At the same time, for higher levels of innovation, managers should prioritize, within the limitations of existing resources, cooperation with universities, competitors and suppliers from abroad, especially in developed countries.

Originality/value

The main academic contribution of the study is the highlighting partner location (i.e. proximate or distant) as relevant to results of process innovation. Nevertheless, the authors determined that this process is heterogeneous, given the function of each partner and taking the different degrees of innovativeness into account.
Preventable harm: creating a mental health crisis
Authors: Stewart Mo
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the preventable harm created by the adoption of austerity measures in 2010, added to the welfare reforms introduced in 2008 which, collectively, have negative implications for population mental health in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical reflection of published research papers and key policy documents in this area.

Findings

Negative mental health consequences of the combined impact of welfare reforms and austerity measures in the UK since 2010 are identified when relating to disability benefit assessments, and to the increased punitive conditionality applied to disability benefit claimants, as those in greatest need now live in fear of making a claim for financial support from the state or of losing benefits to which they are entitled.

Research limitations/implications

This paper identifies the creation of preventable harm by social policy reforms, commonly known as “welfare reforms”. The implications for social scientists are the disregard of academic peer-reviewed social policy research by policymakers, and the adoption of critically challenged policy-based research as used to justify political objectives.

Practical implications

The negative mental health impact of UK government social policy reforms has been identified and highlights the human consequences of the adoption of the biopsychosocial model of assessment.

Social implications

Reducing the numbers of sick and disabled people claiming long-term disability benefit has increased the numbers claiming unemployment benefit, with no notable increase in the numbers of disabled people in paid employment and with many service users in greatest need living in fear of the next enforced disability assessment.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates the preventable harm created by the use of a flawed disability assessment model, together with the adoption of punitive conditionality and the increased suicides linked to UK welfare reforms which are influenced by American social policies.
Validation of an integrated influential factors (IIFs) model as a panacea to curb projects completion delay in Yemen
Authors: Al-Fadhali Najib , Mansir Dodo , Zainal Rozlin
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Influential factors attributed to causing project completion delay (PCD) differ because of prevailing variability of local conditions. Construction projects specifically in Yemen (and other developing countries) experience devastating effects of PCD which include litigation, cost overrun, arbitration, abandonment and failure. While existing works have investigated the causes and effects of PCD, not much exist on approaches to optimizing its occurrence in Yemen. In a bid to enhance the effects of PCD in Yemen, the integrated influential factors (IIFs), which is a construction-party specific model, was developed to mitigate the effects of PCD in Yemen. As a build up to the development of this model, this paper aims to validate the IIFs model with a view to foster its application to enhance PCD in construction project delivery in Yemen.

Design/methodology/approach

The validation of the IIFs model was done through seeking the opinions of 12 selected construction industry experts. This involved using a structured questionnaire to seek information on the sustainability of implementing the IIFs model.

Findings

The findings revealed that if the IIFs model is vigorously implemented, it would go a long way in curbing delay in the delivery of construction projects, making construction delivery less risky due to the effects of delay.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to only influential factors of internal stakeholders of the construction phase. Similarly, the study was only conducted in the state of Sana'a, Yemen. The implication of the adoption of the IIFs model is that it can hopefully serve as an adaptive controller to construction project delivery relative to the specific parameters and factors investigated in this study.

Originality/value

The IIFs model is a novel approach to optimizing PCD in Yemen specific to both the construction-phase and internal stakeholders. Existing studies on PCD in Yemen, although investigating the causes and effect of PCD, hardly proffer any approach to optimizing PCD for successful construction project delivery.
Whether analogue countries exhibit similar women entrepreneurial activities?
Authors: Junaid Danish , He Zheng , Yadav Amit , Asare-Kyire Lydia
Published: September 2019

Purpose

While there are many studies on the impacts of formal institutions such as government financial supporting and tax preferential policies on women entrepreneurial entry, few attempted to explore how informal institutions causes cross-country differences in women entrepreneurship. The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether countries (Pakistan and Malaysia) with similar religious belief, political system and government policies exhibits similar level of women entrepreneurial activity from an informal institutional perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used Global entrepreneurship monitor (GEM) data for the years 2010–2012 and employed probit regression analysis to examine the impacts of cultural-cognitive and social-normative institutions on women entrepreneurial activity.

Findings

The findings reveal profound differences of women’s entrepreneurial activities between Pakistan and Malaysia. While cultural-cognitive dimension shows substantial impact for both nations, social-normative dimension explains the main differences in women’s entrepreneurial activity.

Practical implications

This study proposes that policymakers may craft policies to enhance women skills, knowledge and networking as well as positive societal attitudes to foster women entrepreneurial activities.

Originality/value

This study shows that countries with the same religion and similar formal institutions can also exhibit different level of women entrepreneurial activity. In Pakistan, the negative societal attitudes in the form of deep rooted traditional beliefs as well as misinterpreted religious concepts for women role create formidable challenges and inhibit business opportunities for them. By contrast, favorable social perception and societal attitudes in Malaysia encourage women to pursue their entrepreneurial activities.
Nutritional and cognitive deficits of school-age children
Authors: Tandoh Marina Aferiba , Mills-Robertson Felix Charles , Wilson Michael David , Anderson Alex Kojo
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the association between helminth infections, dietary parameters and cognitive performance, as well as the predictors of undernutrition among school-age children (SAC) living in helminth-endemic fishing and farming communities in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a cross sectional study involving 164 (9 to 12 years old) SAC from fishing (n = 84) and farming (n = 80) communities of the Kwahu Afram Plains South District of the Eastern Region of Ghana, using structured questionnaires and anthropometric and biochemical assessments.

Findings

Overall, 51.2% of the children were males, with no significant gender difference between the communities (p = 0.88). Average age of the children was 10.5 ± 1.25 years, with no significant difference between the farming and fishing communities (p = 0.90). About 53.1% of all children were anemic, with no significant differences between farming versus fishing communities (p = 0.87). Helminth-infected children were significantly anemic (p = 0.03). Mean serum zinc level of all children was 13.1 ± 4.57 µmol/L, with zinc deficiency being significantly higher in children in the farming community (p < 0.0001). About 7.5% of all the children were underweight, whilst 13.8% were stunted with a higher proportion of stunting occurring among older children (p = 0.001) and girls (p = 0.117). There was no significant difference in the Raven’s Colored Progressive Matrices cognitive test scores between the two communities (p = 0.79). Predictors of anemia were helminthiasis and pica behavior.

Originality/value

These findings are relevant and have the prospect of guiding the development of intervention programs in addressing the persistent problem of nutritional and cognitive deficits among SAC.
Information and knowledge management in higher education institutions: the Polish case
Authors: Deja Marek
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the problem of information and knowledge management (IKM) in higher education institutions. The research aims to determine the way in which the knowledge resources of a higher education institution are managed. The author intends to define how the information system is shaped and how information and knowledge are used in the reporting processes and for decision-making efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 38 university administration employees from six higher education institutions in Poland participated in the study. Information barriers and benefits resulting from the implementation of the central reporting system “POL-on” were identified by using the sense-making technique. The purpose of the interviews was to determine the procedural and behavioural conditions of the reporting and decision-making processes in higher education institutions in Poland.

Findings

This paper suggests four characteristics of IKM in higher education institutions. A link between the information culture of the institution, its size and structure as well as the adopted model of IKM is demonstrated.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper is to introduce a framework for studying the IKM in higher education institutions from the perspective of information culture. Higher education institutions have developed different styles of striving for efficiency regarding decision making and reporting in administration. The IM and KM are now proved to be an integrated process in administrative activities of higher education institutions.