bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contributions of species shade tolerance and individual light environment to photosynthetic induction in tropical tree seedlings
Authors: Kang Huixing , Tomimatsu Hajime , Zhu Ting , Ma Yixin , Wang Xiruo , Zhang Yan , Tang Yanhong
Published: May 2022

It has long been debated whether tree leaves from shady environments exhibit higher photosynthetic induction efficiency (IE) than those from sunny environments and how the shade tolerance of tree species and the light environment of leaves contribute to the dynamics of photosynthesis. To address these questions, we investigated leaf photosynthetic responses to simulated changes of light intensity in seedlings of six tree species with differential shade tolerance. The seedlings were growing under different light environments in a lowland tropical forest. We proposed an index of relative shade tolerance (RST) to assess species-specific capacity to tolerate shade, and we quantified the light environment of individual leaves by the index of daily light integral (DLI), the averaged daily total light intensity. We obtained the following results. Photosynthetic IE, which is the ratio of the achieved carbon gain to the expected carbon gain, was significantly higher for species with a higher RST than for that with a lower RST. The impacts of light environment on the IE of individual leaves within the same species varied largely among different species. In the three species with relatively low RST, the IE of individual leaves decreased at higher DLIs when DLI < 10 mol m−2 d−1. Seedlings with high initial stomatal conductance before induction (gs50) possessed a higher IE than those with low gs50 from the same species. A trade-off existed between IE and steady-state photosynthetic rates. These results suggest a complex interaction between the shade tolerance of species and the light environments of individual leaves for photosynthetic induction and provide new insights into the adaptation strategy for understory seedlings under sunfleck environments.
Data-driven readiness: A preliminary report on cataloging best practices in military civilian partnerships
Authors: Gurney Jennifer M. , John Sarah K. , Whitt Edward H. , Slinger Bryce J. , Luan William P. , Lindly Jamie , Graybill Johnathan Christopher , Bailey Jeffrey A.
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Between conflicts, many of the combat casualty care lessons learned are lost as the nation shifts priorities and providers leave the military. Solutions are needed to bridge the knowledge gap created by interwar periods. One of the foremost solutions is partnerships between civilian trauma centers and the military health system. Over the past two decades, a myriad of military-civilian partnerships (MCPs), which vary in their composition, duration, and focus, was created. The objective of this report is to describe the initial attempt of the Department of Defense to catalog existing MCPs to inform both civilian and military stakeholders. This initial catalog is intended as a reference to aid in future MCP development and facilitate the synchronization of efforts to improve trauma care delivery and readiness.

METHODS

Using methodology from the Institute of Defense Analysis, the total number of eligible trauma centers in the United States was determined. The Institute of Defense Analysis determined eligibility-based American College of Surgeons Trauma Center verification or state trauma center designation. Each military service provided their list of MCPs, which were categorized. Military-civilian partnerships were cataloged by various characteristics and program components. Key variables include number and type of personnel trained, duration of training, and focus, for example, team versus individual focused and training versus maintaining proficiency focused.

RESULTS

A total of 1,139 hospitals in the United States are potentially eligible for MCPs. There are at least 87 unique partnerships; the majority are part-time sustainment MCPs. The Air Force has the largest number of providers in MCPs. There are many challenges to maintain accurate and up to date data on MCPs.

CONCLUSION

With the collated information, the Defense Health Agency, military services, special operations community, and civilian partners will be better empowered to optimize the readiness value of their programs and better prepare our military medical providers for the nation's and military's future needs.
Mechanisms of knowledge workers’ adaptive perfectionism on taking charge
Authors: Wei Caiyun , Zhang Lanxia
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the mechanisms of adaptive perfectionism on employees’ taking charge (TC), the mediating role of work family enrichment and the moderating role of perceived organizational support (OS) in the relationship between adaptive perfectionism and employees’ TC.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on 305 knowledge workers working in diverse organizations in China to examine the hypotheses.

Findings

The results showed that adaptive perfectionism had a significant positive effect on employees’ TC. Both directions of work-family enrichment (WFE) and family-work enrichment (FWE) play a mediating role between adaptive perfectionism and employees’ TC. Perceived OS moderates the relationship between WFE/FWE and employees’ TC. Perceived OS moderates the indirect effects of adaptive perfectionism on employees’ TC through WFE and FWE.

Originality/value

This study explores the impact of adaptive perfectionism on employees’ TC, expands the scope of existing perfectionism research, enriches the research on adaptive perfectionism outcome variables and provides evidence and reference for follow-up research.
Modelling of low-speed magnetic gear with viscose ferrofluid
Authors: Mateev Valentin , Marinova Iliana
Published: May 2022

Purpose

In this paper, a computational model of a coaxial magnetic gear (MG) design with viscose ferrofluid between rotors is proposed. Viscose ferrofluid is used to decrease the magnetic reluctance and therefore creates higher magnetic torque. However, viscose friction of ferrofluid is undesirable and must be minimised in this particular application. MG is supposed to operate under low rotational speeds, where the dynamic viscose friction is very low, and the effects of the viscose ferrofluid over the MG’s efficiency must be estimated. The paper aims to analyze the performance of MG with viscose ferrofluid and to estimate the MG efficiency by computational model using finite element method (FEM).

Design/methodology/approach

An MG design with viscose ferrofluid between the outer low-speed rotor and modulating steel segments was modelled as a coupled transient magnetic field problem and a kinematic model with viscous friction coefficients derived from a previously computed fluid dynamics model.

Findings

The proposed computational implementation is suitable for homogeneous magnetic fluid modelling in electromagnetic actuators and rotational machines. The results regarding power and torque transmission of MG were obtained by coupled finite element modelling. The efficiency of MG significantly decreased due to ferrofluid friction.

Originality/value

The described MG design with viscose ferrofluid is a novel device with new operational characteristics, and new results for the effects of viscose ferrofluid friction in the outer magnetic field over the MG efficiency are estimated.
Human and contextual factors influencing cyber-security in organizations, and implications for higher education institutions: a systematic review
Authors: AL-Nuaimi Maryam Nasser
Published: May 2022

Purpose

A research line has emerged that is concerned with investigating human factors in information systems and cyber-security in organizations using various behavioural and socio-cognitive theories. This study aims to explore human and contextual factors influencing cyber security behaviour in organizations while drawing implications for cyber-security in higher education institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review has been implemented. The reviewed studies have revealed various human and contextual factors that influence cyber-security behaviour in organizations, notably higher education institutions.

Research limitations/implications

This review study offers practical implications for constructing and keeping a robust cyber-security organizational culture in higher education institutions for the sustainable development goals of cyber-security training and education.

Originality/value

The value of the current review arises in that it presents a comprehensive account of human factors affecting cyber-security in organizations, a topic that is rarely investigated in previous related literature. Furthermore, the current review sheds light on cyber-security in higher education from the weakest link perspective. Simultaneously, the study contributes to relevant literature by gaining insight into human factors and socio-technological controls related to cyber-security in higher education institutions.
Man vs machine: how artificial intelligence in banking influences consumer belief in financial advice
Authors: Northey Gavin , Hunter Vanessa , Mulcahy Rory , Choong Kelly , Mehmet Michael
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This research set out to examine how financial advice provided by a human advisor (vs robo-advisor) influences investment intentions in a retail banking context.

Design/methodology/approach

In two experiments, between-subjects experimental designs were employed to test the primary hypothesis and identify the underlying causal mechanisms that influence consumer investment decisions.

Findings

The results from two experiments indicate consumers have more belief in financial advice provided by a human financial advisor (vs robo-advisor), when the level of involvement is high. The authors also identify customer belief in the information and the customer's perception of the bank's “customer focus” as the causal mechanisms that have downstream effects on investment intentions.

Originality/value

This research is the first to examine how financial advice received from a human advisor (vs robo-advisor) influences investment intentions in a retail banking context. Furthermore, this research identifies high involvement as a key boundary condition moderating the effects on investment intention and identifies consumer belief in the advice, as well as the bank's perceived level of customer focus as the causal mechanisms influencing investment intentions.
Building performance analysis for optimizing the energy consumption of an educational building
Authors: Islam Md Hamidul , Safayet Md. Abu , Al Mamun Abdullah
Published: May 2022

Purpose

In response to rising energy prices and growing environmental concerns, there is a growing demand for environmentally friendly building facilities. This study investigates optimizing energy consumption and improves the level of accuracy when selecting suitable materials and components with minimal impact on the overall energy consumption of buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was carried out from the perspective of an educational building's energy simulation, using a validated building energy analysis tool Green Building Studio (GBS). There were eight parameters analyzed considering at least two connected variables without measuring the initial building configuration. After that, Autodesk Revit and Insight 360 were used to make similar scenarios of the best performance selections so that the general results could be compared and the initial hypothesis could be proven.

Findings

In this study, the initial building analysis showed that there was an annual energy use of 139 kBtu/sf and the estimated carbon emissions were about 156 tons/yr. After the parametric analysis, the maximum energy saving was about 32.38%, considering the best performance scenario with a reduction of CO2 emissions of around 28.85%.

Originality/value

The outcome of this study will help Bangladeshi architect/designers to make appropriate decisions regarding the selection of suitable building materials and components at the initial stage of any project in terms of the energy consumption aspects. In addition, energy-efficient buildings provide cleaner combustion and better circulation than traditional buildings, that is why they reduce indoor air pollution, maintaining a safe, healthy and sustainable environment for future generations.
Circular building adaptability and its determinants – A literature review
Authors: Hamida Mohammad B. , Jylhä Tuuli , Remøy Hilde , Gruis Vincent
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Adaptability is an inherent quality in building circularity, as adaptability can physically facilitate the reversibility of materials in a closed-reversible chain, also called “loops”. Nevertheless, positioning adaptability in circularity-oriented models could overlook some of the contextual considerations that contribute to the utility for the built environment. This paper reconceptualises building adaptability to incorporate circularity, in order to facilitate for the resource loops whilst preserving the long-lasting functionality in buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

An integrative literature review on adaptability and circularity of buildings was conducted using systematic search approach. From the initial database of 4631 publications, 104 publications were included for the final analysis. A comparative analysis of definitions and determinants of both concepts was conducted to reconceptualise circular building adaptability.

Findings

The findings of the literature study show that incorporating circularity and adaptability is possible through 10 design and operation determinants, namely configuration flexibility, product dismantlability, asset multi-usability, design regularity, functional convertibility, material reversibility, building maintainability, resource recovery, volume scalability, and asset refit-ability. The study concludes that considering the defined determinants in a holistic manner could simultaneously facilitate: building resilience to contextual changes, creation of asset value, and elimination of waste generation.

Originality/value

This paper expands the relevant bodies of literature by providing a novel way of perceiving building adaptability, incorporating circularity. The practical value of this paper lies in the discussion of potential strategies that can be proactively or reactively employed to operationalise circular building adaptability.
Interorganizational knowledge sharing barriers and enablers: the case of Peshawar Bus Rapid Transit project
Authors: Iftikhar Rehab , Lions Catherine
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The paper aims at identifying knowledge sharing barriers and enablers in an interorganizational setting at different levels of units. For this purpose, the interorganizational setting of Peshawar Bus Rapid Transit project in Pakistan is examined.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts an exploratory single case study approach. The empirical data comprise semi-structured interviews and archival documents. Thematic analysis is used for analyzing the data.

Findings

The findings identify distinct knowledge sharing barriers and enablers at different level of units (individual, team, organizational and interorganizational). Based on the findings, an integrative framework of knowledge sharing barriers, enablers, and levels of units is proposed. Furthermore, the findings provide guidance to managers as the findings show how different knowledge sharing barriers and enablers are important at different levels of units.

Originality/value

This study novelty lies in determining separate sets of knowledge sharing barriers and enablers at different level of units in an interorganizational project. This study contributes to the literature on knowledge sharing by studying an interorganizational project.
Investigating information processing paradigm to predict performance in emerging firms: the mediating role of technological innovation
Authors: Ali Zulqurnain
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the influence of the information processing paradigm (information sharing and quality) on firm performance using organizational information processing theory (OIPT) in emerging marketing. This research also pursues to explore the underpinning mediation mechanism of technological innovation in the association between the information processing paradigm and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the survey method, this study recruited 331 textile SME entrepreneurs and validated the proposed model and hypotheses in AMOS.

Findings

The outcomes reveal that information sharing, information quality and technological innovation are positively related to firm performance, while technological innovation mediates the association between the information processing paradigm (i.e. information sharing and information quality) and firm performance.

Practical implications

The findings enable the firms to bring technological innovation and realize the best performance by seeking and sharing valuable information across the firm. The managers should ensure a culture of quality information sharing, improve coordination among departments and discourage irrelevant/fake information. Such practices are beneficial for firm decision-makers when formulating business plans and focusing on communication mechanisms that will assist them in attaining higher innovation levels and firm performance.

Originality/value

This paper theoretically and empirically contributes to examining the influence of the information processing paradigm on firm performance, which was ignored in information and performance management literature. Moreover, to the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study that investigates the mediation mechanism between the information processing paradigm and firm performance.
Reporting behaviors of familiar identity theft victims: an empirical test of Black’s theory of law
Authors: Betz-Hamilton Axton
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Familiar identity theft, which occurs when an individual known to a victim steals his/her identity, is a common problem in the USA. The purpose of this study was to understand familiar identity theft victims’ reporting behaviors using Black's (1976) theory of law as a conceptual framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained from the 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2018 administrations of the National Crime Victimization Survey – Identity Theft Supplement. A series of cross-tabulations were conducted to examine the relationship between reporting behaviors and age, minority, gender, income, marital status and education. Fisher’s exact test was used to interpret the findings.

Findings

Key findings include older familiar identity theft victims who personally lost greater sums of money because of identity theft victimization were more likely to report to law enforcement than younger familiar identity theft victims who personally lost less money. Married familiar identity theft victims were less likely to report to law enforcement than those who were not married.

Originality/value

This study extends the work of Golladay (2017) to explore the reporting behaviors of a population of identity theft victims that have been largely overlooked in empirical literature.
The relationship between compliance level and value creation: evidence from integrated reports in Turkey
Authors: Aslanertik B. Esra , Yardımcı Bengü
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the level of reporting compliance in terms of content elements, measure to what extent each content element of the integrated reporting (IR) framework is linked to value creation and demonstrate the relationship between the level of compliance and value creation linkages.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample for this study consists of 12 companies, 11 of which are public and 1 is non-public. The data is obtained from the Integrated Reporting Turkey Network founded in 2015 in Turkey. This study applies a holistic approach integrating two different content analysis methods. First, a multi-weighted scoring system is constructed by using the IR content elements and the previously developed indexes in the literature. Second, in-depth, sentence-by-sentence content analysis is used to determine the relation between the content elements and value creation.

Findings

The results of the multi-weighted scoring system indicate a high level of compliance in the banking sector. On the other hand, the scores of the content analysis demonstrate higher scores in the disclosures of “basis of preparation and presentation”, “organizational overview and external environment”, “strategy and resource allocation”, “performance” and “business model” elements, while lower scores in the elements of “risk and opportunities” and “outlook.” The lowest compliance level associated with lower content analysis scores may indicate a low level of value creation potential. Consequently, this two-stage scoring is critical, as it clarifies the relation between compliance level and the explanatory power of each content element from a value creation perspective.

Originality/value

This study aims to support the policymakers and regulators in highlighting the importance of measuring and reporting value. Furthermore, it intends to encourage companies to produce reports that increase the value relevance of accounting information to contribute to the development of capital markets. The current literature includes research that mainly concentrates only on the quality or extent of IR disclosure practices. This study offers a combined analysis that helps to determine at what level a company has accomplished the expectations of the International Integrated Reporting Council in terms of both the content and the value creation potential.
Effect of corporate governance on corporate social responsibility in Vietnam: state-ownership as the moderating role
Authors: Thuy Ho Xuan , Khuong Nguyen Vinh , Anh Le Huu Tuan , Quyen Pham Nhat
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the association between corporate governance (CG) and the corporate social responsibility (CSR) information disclosure as well as the moderating role of state-ownership between CG and CSR disclosure.

Design/methodology/approach

To examine the relationship between CG and CSR disclosure, this study used the feasible general least squares and generalized method of moments method on a sample of 165 non-financial quoted companies over the 2015–2018 period, which account for about three-fourths of the Vietnamese stock exchange.

Findings

The findings suggest that enterprises with smaller board size consisting mainly of independent directors have a higher CSR disclosure level. Moreover, when the chief executive officer is concurrently the chairman of the board, the level of CSR disclosure falls. Additionally, the moderating role of state ownership enhances CSR disclosure.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical results of this study form a solid foundation for policymakers and other stakeholders’ decisions in investing or establishing policies.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence on the relationship between CG and CSR disclosure in Vietnam – a developing country with no legal requirement on CSR disclosure. Moreover, this study emphasizes the moderating role of state ownership between CG and CSR disclosure, which clarifies the role of state ownership in establishing CG mechanisms.
The moderating role of perceived behavioral control in predicting Muslim tourists’ halal tourism intention: a developing country perspective
Authors: Akter Nasrin , Hasan Shahedul
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Halal tourism despite its increasing contributions toward the global tourism industry, remains a nascent field of research, in particular, investigations that explore the drivers of halal tourism purchase intention of Muslim tourists are insufficient. To contribute to this end, this study aims to examine the moderating role of perceived behavioral control (PBC) on attitude, subjective norms (SN) and behavioral intention by applying the theory of planned behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual model is tested by using structural equation modeling based on the data collected from 306 Muslim tourists of Bangladesh.

Findings

The results reveal that PBC moderates the relationship between attitude and halal tourism intention. Halal tourism intention is also influenced by attitude and PBC but not by SN.

Research limitations/implications

Findings of the study contributed to halal tourism literature by identifying the role of perceived autonomy and capacity on halal tourism intention and by offering an understanding of the underlying psychological drivers of halal tourism choice.

Practical implications

This would help the marketer to design suitable halal tourism offerings to fulfill the unique needs of this less explored tourism market.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is perhaps the first study in the context of the Bangladesh tourism sector that focuses on customers’ halal tourism intention. The study’s findings are crucial in Islamic marketing and halal tourism.
Evaluating the effectiveness of resilience-building training within the national health service in the UK
Authors: Horton Nicole , Drayton Mike , Wilcox Daniel Thomas , Dymond Harriet
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the use of an innovative resilience-building training programme delivered to NHS Safeguarding Leads and other participating professionals over a five-month period concluding in March 2019. The developers used knowledge and expertise in both the fields of psychology and drama-based learning to promote comprehension, retention and a capacity for using and conveying these strategies to other health-care workers.

Design/methodology/approach

Attendees were given pre- and post-questionnaires to examine the effectiveness of the training in terms of understanding the stages of burnout, developing an awareness of personal risk factors that may be associated with potential burnout and their perceptions of the confidence they have in both evaluating their personal resilience and using acquired skills and coping techniques that they may apply to their personal and professional lives. A Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test was administered, to assess the significance of the difference between pre- and post-training scores.

Findings

Following the training, participants reported statistically significant improvements relating to their understanding of terms, including “burnout”. They also reported an increased awareness of their personal risk factors associated with burnout and felt more resilient having completed the training. Statistically significant changes were reported in all of these areas, with the drama element of the training being commended on about one third of all feedback forms where, with the post-test results, a narrative (unscored) opportunity for feedback was sought.

Research limitations/implications

The authors note that a long-term follow-up of retention and use of this training was not undertaken, though they consider that, post-pandemic, this necessary training can be reinitiated and that, as with other professional initiatives, video-engagement technology may be, through innovative efforts, merged with these effective training techniques as an option for future training applications.

Practical implications

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this training programme was the first of its kind to use a psychologically underpinned drama-based didactic approach to build resilience and protect against burnout. The results of this paper show that this training used an effective and efficient medium for successfully meeting these primary objectives.

Social implications

It is considered that using a similar training approach would be effective in building resilience and preventing burnout in health-care professionals.

Originality/value

This paper evaluates the effectiveness of an innovative resilience-building training programme drawing upon the field of psychology and drama-based learning to support safeguarding professionals within the NHS.
Understanding the factors that influence software testing through moments of translation
Authors: Sekgweleo Tefo , Iyamu Tiko
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Organisations make use of different tools and methods in testing software to ensure quality and appropriateness for business needs. Despite the efforts, many organisations continue to have challenges with the quality of their software. This has impacted the service that the organisation provides to their customers and business partners. Software quality challenges persist because of two main reasons: some organisations do not conduct testing and evaluation of their software, and many organisations pay less attention to the non-technical activities in the testing and evaluation of software in their organisations. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to understand the factors that influence software testing through empirical study.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used actor–network theory (ANT) to assess the factors that influence the testing and evaluation of software, using a South African organisation as case in the study. Qualitative data was collected from 14 participants using semi-structured interview techniques. The interpretivist approach was applied in the analysis of the data.

Findings

From the analysis, six factors, software evaluation, process oriented, implementation policy, change management, power relationship and organisational structure, were found to be of influence on software testing. Based on the factors, a framework was developed to help software testers and managers understand how to customise their testing tools.

Originality/value

The originality of this study comes from its empirical nature, through which it contributes to practice by proposing a model for practical actions towards improving software testing in organisations. Also, this study contributes to ANT usefulness from the point of investigative effectiveness.
Synthesis and characterization of ZnO based varistor ceramics: effect of sintering temperatures
Authors: Bouchekhlal Ahmed , Boulesbaa Mohammed
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of the sintering temperature on the microstructural, morphological and electrical characteristics of Zinc oxide (ZnO)-based varistors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a conventional method to design and produce ZnO varistors by sintering ZnO powder with small amounts of various metal oxides. Furthermore, the effect of sintering temperature on varistor properties of (Bi, Co, Cr, Sb, Mn)-doped ZnO ceramics was investigated in the range of 1280–1350 °C.

Findings

The obtained results showed an EB value of 2109.79 V/cm, a Vgb value of 0.831 V and a nonlinear coefficient (α) value of 19.91 for sample sintered at temperature of 1300 °C. In addition, the low value of tan δ at low frequency range confirmed that the grain boundaries created in 1300 °C sintering temperature were obviously good.

Originality/value

Based on the previous research on the ZnO-based varistors, a thorough study was carried out on these components to improve their electrical characteristics. Thus, it is necessary that those varistors have low leakage current and low value of dissipation factor to ensure their good quality. High breakdown fields and nonlinearity coefficients are also required in such kind of components. The effect of sintering temperature on the varistor properties of the new compositions (zinc, bismuth, manganese, chrome, cobalt, antimony and silicon oxides)-doped ZnO ceramics was studied in the range of 1280–1350 °C. Also, the microstructure and the phase evolution of the samples sintered at various temperatures (1280 °C, 1300 °C, 1320 °C and 1350 °C) were investigated according to X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope measurements.
Drying and adhesive properties of novel surface coatings derived from peanut skin extract and cashew nutshell liquid
Authors: Kyei Sampson Kofi , Eke William Iheanyi , Darko Godfred , Akaranta Onyewuchi
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to synthesize pigment and resin from agro-wastes and use them in the formulation of eco-friendly surface coatings.

Design/methodology/approach

The pigments and resin were synthesized through a chemical modification of agro-wastes. The pigments were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and were screened for their antimicrobial activities. The physicochemical characteristics of the cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL)-modified resin were evaluated. These precursors and other natural additives were used to formulate surface coatings, and their drying and adhesive properties were evaluated using international testing methods.

Findings

It was observed that the curing of the CNSL-modified resin depended on time and temperature. The pigments exhibited antimicrobial activity against E. coli and S. aureus and had high melting points, affirming their stability. The chemically modified precursors successfully yielded surface coatings with acceptable drying times and adhesion to the base substrate.

Practical implications

The use of agro-wastes as the main components of the surface coatings implies waste valorization, a reduction in production costs and the creation of job opportunities for sustainable development. To increase the chemical, physical, corrosion resistance and antimicrobial qualities of paint compositions, chemically modified peanut skin extracts and CNSL can be used as pigments and resins, respectively. This could be a green approach to achieving the targets of Sustainable development goals 11 and 12.

Originality/value

The paper outlines a prospective approach to use unwanted waste (peanut skin, cashew nutshells) and other natural additives as industrial raw materials. These novel surface coating precursors are cost-effective, readily available, eco-friendly and could replace conventional precursors.
Preparing and applying a poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride)-g-polyetheramine hyperdispersant
Authors: Lv Dongjun , Zhang Xiaolei , Gao Guocheng , Tang Jing , Zhang Zilong , Liu Yihui , Wang Ran , Liu LeiFang
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was the preparation of a poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride)-g-polyetheramine (SMA-g-PEA) hyperdispersant that reduces the viscosity of the system and improves the colouring intensities of pigments.

Design/methodology/approach

PEA of specific quality was dissolved in propylene glycol methyl ether. SMA was then added according to the required mass ratio. The solution was refluxed for 10 h under a stream of protective N2. The prepared hyperdispersant was then characterised by Fourier-transform infrared, UV–visible and 1H NMR spectroscopies, gel-permeation chromatography and thermogravimetry.

Findings

PEA was successfully grafted onto the SMA polymer and the synthesised product was found to be thermally stable. The copolymer with a 6:1 mass ratio is the best dispersant and was used to disperse carbon black, phthalocyanine blue and permanent violet in water-based systems, which helps to improve the application performance of each pigment by reducing the viscosity of the system and improving the colouring intensity of the pigment. The water dispersion is stable and does not exhibit an increase in viscosity after seven days of oven aging at 50°C.

Originality/value

SMA-g-PEA water-based hyperdispersants were successfully synthesised. The prepared hyperdispersants help to improve the application performance of each studied pigment by reducing the viscosity of the system and improving the colouring intensity of the pigment.
External evaluation of university quality in Chile: an overview
Authors: López Daniel A. , Espinoza Oscar , Rojas María J. , Crovetto Mirta
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to review processes of accreditation for Chilean Universities. Along with cataloguing evolutionary milestones, the study analyses effects at the institutional and program levels.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a meta-evaluative approach and is based on secondary information sources, including both specialised publications and national databases, regarding the expansion of institutions, programs and enrolment, as well as the results of accreditation processes.

Findings

University quality assurance reflects developments in economic policies, and supply and demand. Progressive consolidation of the national system has had positive effects on the management and development of universities, but the implementation of quality assurance has brought some problems. A traditional classification of universities into customary categories is predictive of the results of accreditation. The variable of administrative compliance is more important than a culture of quality in explaining the results of institutional and program accreditation.

Originality/value

This review identifies advances, limitations and challenges in the improvement and assurance of quality of Chilean Universities and their programs. This is an unprecedented metanalysis of studies concerning the evolution of accreditation processes and will inform future practice.
Tensile properties of FDM 3D-printed wood flour filled polymers and mathematical modeling through classical lamination theory
Authors: Malagutti Lorenzo , Mazzanti Valentina , Mollica Francesco
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The architecture of 3D-printed parts made through fused deposition modelling (FDM) with raster infill resembles that of composite laminates. Classical lamination theory (CLT), the simplest model for composite laminates, has been proved successful for describing the stiffness properties of FDM parts, while strength modeling so far has been limited to unidirectional lay-ups. The aim of this paper is to show that CLT can be used to predict also FDM part failure.

Design/methodology/approach

Wood flour-filled polyester has been chosen as a model material. Unidirectional specimens oriented at 0°, 90° and ± 45° have been first characterized in simple tension to obtain the properties of the single layer. Next, two quasi-isotropic lay-ups, possessing different layer sequences, have been tested again in simple tension for CLT validation.

Findings

The measured properties are in good agreement with theoretical predictions, both for stiffness and strength, and an even better agreement can be achieved if a correction for taking the contour lines into account is implemented.

Originality/value

The paper shows that also the tensile strength of FDM parts can be predicted by using a mathematical model based on CLT. This opens up the possibility of using CLT for studying optimization of raster filled lay-ups, for example in terms of the best raster angles sequence, to better resist applied external loads.
Additive manufacturing on the façade: functional use of direct metal laser sintering hatch distance process parameters in building envelope
Authors: Çalışkan Cemal İrfan , Arpacıoğlu Ümit
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this article is on the functional usability of metal additive manufacturing (AM) direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) production technology process parameters in the construction industry. In the study, the advantages of thermal optimization and weight reduction in the case of the use of foam metals obtained by changing the hatch distance the production process parameter, in the production of facade panels in the architectural field are revealed.

Design/methodology/approach

The methods in the study; production of the small scaled facade panels with nine different hatch distance parameters, determination of the thermal change with the infrared thermography method, microstructure examination, weight measurement.

Findings

The paper lays the groundwork for the manufacturability of lighter and lower thermal conductivity facade panels by changing the hatch distance parameters. Within the scope of the study, the definition of semi-open-cell foam aluminum and the product screening strategy offers innovation. Within the scope of the study, this scope is shared as an algorithmic summary. In addition, the study offers a new perspective within the scope of multiple optimizable panel production in facade panels with AM technology.

Originality/value

Hatch distance parameter change was first discussed in this study in the architectural field, and a semi-open cell foam aluminum panel was obtained with the scanning strategy determined within the scope of the study. This panel geometry, which is defined as semi-open cell foam aluminum, can be used as a design element by painting or coating the outer surface, it can be stated that it will also provide thermal and weight optimization.
Mechanical anti-lock braking system using pneumatic system and solenoid valve with low cost manufacturing
Authors: K. Vinoth Kumar , T.G. Loganathan , G. Jagadeesh
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The Purpose of this study is to prove the possibility of developing low cost mechanical anti – lock braking system (ABS) for the passenger’s safety.

Design/methodology/approach

The design methodology of the proposed newer mechanical ABS comprises of two units, namely, the braking unit and wheel lock prevention unit. The braking unit actuates the wheel stopping as and when the driver applies the brake, whereas the wheel lock prevention unit initiates wheel release to prevent locking and subsequent slip/skidding. The brake pedal with master cylinder assembly and double-arm cylinder forms the braking unit, brake pad cylinder, movable brake pad, solenoid valve and dynamo forms the wheel lock prevention unit. The dynamo coupled with the rotor energises/de-energises the solenoid values to direct airflow for applying brake and release it, which makes the system less energy-dependent.

Findings

The braking unit aids in vehicle stops, by locking the disc with the brake pad actuated by a double-arm cylinder. The dynamo energises the solenoid valve to activate the brake pad cylinder piston for applying the brake on the disc. Instantaneously, on applying the brake the dynamo de-energises the solenoid to divert the pneumatic flow for retracting the brake pad thereby minimizing the braking torque. The baking torque reduction revives the wheel rotating and prevents slip/skidding.

Originality/value

Mechanical ABS preventing wheel lock by torque reduction principle is a novel method that has not been evolved so far. The system was designed with repair/replacement of the parts and subcomponents to support higher affordability on safety grounds.
Indirect consequences of coronavirus disease 2019: Skin lesions caused by the frequent hand sanitation and use of personal protective equipment and strategies for their prevention
Authors: Graça Angélica , Martins Ana Margarida , Ribeiro Helena Margarida , Marques Marto Joana
Published: May 2022

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) enforced the use of hand sanitation and of personal protective equipment, such as masks and visors, especially by health‐care professionals, but also by the general public. However, frequent hand sanitation and the prolonged and continuous use of personal protective equipment are responsible for constant frictional and pressure forces on skin causing lesions, the most reported being acne, facial itching, dryness, and rash. Thus, it is important to find measures to prevent skin lesions, in order to improve the quality of life of health‐care professionals and of the general public. This article gathers the current information regarding measures to prevent human to human transmission of COVID‐19, reviews the most common skin lesions caused by the use of hand sanitizers and different types of personal protective equipment, and the possible preventive measures that can be used on a daily basis to minimize the risk of developing skin‐related pathologies. Daily skin care routines and the incorporation of a dressing between the skin and the personal protective equipment to serve as a protective barrier are some of the applied measures. Moisturizers and dressings improve the skin's ability to respond to constant aggressions. Lastly, the need for additional studies to evaluate the lubrication properties of different types of dressings is discussed. The understanding of what kind of dressing is more suitable to prevent pressure injuries is crucial to promote healthy skin and wellbeing during pandemic times.
The first case of Chinese phacomatosis pigmentokeratotica diagnosed by a missense HRAS mosaicism
Authors: Huang Linting , Zhang Jia , Chen Fuying , Zhang Xue , Cao Yu , Cheng Ruhong , Deng Dan
Published: May 2022

Phacomatosis pigmentokeratotica (PPK) is a rare epidermal nevus (EN) syndrome, featured by co‐occurrence of speckled lentiginous nevus (SLN) and nevus sebaceous (NS). The underlying mechanism has not been clarified. Pathogenic mutations in HRAS, KRAS and BRAF gene are recently recognized as the genetic cause of PPK. Here we present a case of Chinese PPK with a mosaic mutation in HRAS gene. Physical examination of the 4‐year‐old male proband showed NS locating on the scalp, with EN and SLN on trunk and extremities. Except congenital fundus vascular tortuosity, no evidence of extracutaneous abnormalities was found in this case. A rare heterozygous missense c. 181 C>A mosaic mutation in HRAS was identified in samples from NS, EN and pigmented nevus using next‐generation sequencing and Sanger sequencing. Meanwhile, no mutation was found in the non‐lesion skin, hair follicle, or blood DNA. Recent breakthrough in clinical manifestation, genetic mutation and prognosis of PPK is also reviewed.
Circ_0001273 downregulation inhibits the growth, migration and glutamine metabolism of esophageal cancer cells via targeting the miR‐622/SLC1A5 signaling axis
Authors: Wu Bomeng , Chen Ying , Chen Ying , Xie Xihao , Liang Hanping , Peng Fengyuan , Che Weibi
Published: May 2022

Background

Esophageal cancer is a relatively rare cancer. However, its death rate is not to be taken lightly. Accumulating evidence indicates circular RNA (circRNA) is implicated in cancer development. The objective of this study was to unveil the role of circ_0001273 in esophageal cancer (EC).

Methods

For expression analysis of circ_0001273, miR‐622 and solute carrier family 1 member 5 (SLC1A5), quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) and Western blot were conducted. Cell proliferation was evaluated by cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), EdU and colony formation assays. Cell apoptosis and cell migration were investigated using flow cytometry assay and wound healing assay. Glutamine metabolism was assessed by glutamine consumption and glutamate production using matched kits. The predicted binding relationship between miR‐622 and circ_0001273 or SLC1A5 was validated by dual‐luciferase reporter assay. An in vivo xenograft model was established to determine the role of circ_0001273 on tumor growth.

Results

Circ_0001273 was upregulated in EC tumor tissues and cells. Knockdown of circ_0001273 repressed EC cell proliferation, migration, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and glutamine metabolism. Circ_0001273 knockdown also blocked tumor development in animal models. MiR‐622 was targeted by circ_0001273, and its inhibition reversed the functional effects of circ_0001273 knockdown. SLC1A5 was a target gene of miR‐622, and circ_0001273 targeted miR‐622 to positively regulate SLC1A5 expression. The inhibitory effects of miR‐622 enrichment on EC cell proliferation, migration, EMT and glutamine metabolism were recovered by SLC1A5 overexpression.

Conclusion

Circ_0001273 high expression contributed to EC progression via modulating the miR‐622/SLC1A5 signaling axis.