bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of meat price volatility in China
Authors: Luo WanChun , Liu Rui 
Published: September 2011

PurposeIn recent years, frequent volatility is deeply influencing meat industry, household lives and macroeconomics. The main purpose of this paper is to analyze the volatility of Chinese meat price, and provide suggestions on stabilizing the meat market.Design/methodology/approachThis paper uses (G) ARCH, (G) ARCH‐M, TARCH and EGARCH models to analyze volatility and its asymmetry of Chinese meat price.FindingsEstimation result of (G) ARCH model shows volatility clustering of meat price. Estimation result of (G) ARCH‐M model shows high risk and low return in beef market. ARCH and EGARCH models estimation results show non‐symmetry of volatility of beef, mutton and chicken price, and volatility caused by falling price is smaller than that caused by rising price.Originality/valueThis paper shows that volatility of meat price can be predicted and Chinese meat market is not perfect, and special attention to the factors causing rise in meat price is necessary.
The quantification of fatigue crack initiators in aluminium alloy 7050‐T7451 using quantitative fractography
Authors: Barter Simon A. 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to present some aspects associated with the life prediction of structures with fatigue cracks growing from small natural discontinuities in aluminium alloy (AA)7050‐T7451 for a surface condition that is present in F/A‐18 A/B aircraft critical structure.Design/methodology/approachFatigue results are presented for thick section AA7050 plate coupons loaded with a representative fighter aircraft wing root bending moment loading spectrum. Detailed quantitative fractography (QF) was used to gain a deeper understanding of issues relevant to an improved fatigue life predictive capacity for this material by using the QF results to investigate the “effectiveness” of the fatigue initiating discontinuities.FindingsEstimates of the “effectiveness” of the fatigue initiating discontinuities as quasi pre‐existing fatigue cracks (“equivalent pre‐crack size” (EPS) here) were made with the aid of a simple crack growth model. This model, based on experience, was found to be valid for the applied spectrum and stress levels used. These stress levels were chosen to represent those that may be found in highly stressed locations of fighter aircraft; and as such would usually lead to the limiting fatigue life of such a structure.Research limitations/implicationsThe method has been extended to other crack growth situations and is being used to build a database large enough to determine the best probability distribution of the “effectiveness” of the fatigue initiating discontinuities for not only the surface condition reported here but several other surface conditions typical of aircraft metallic structure.Practical implicationsThe EPS of the discontinuities from which the cracks grew were used to investigate distributions that may be used in a risk‐based assessment using deterministic crack growth measurements from such discontinuities. Some of the problems that remain to be resolved in such an analysis, prior to its use in a risk‐based assessment are discussed.Originality/valueThis work improves the understanding of the interaction of small fatigue cracks generated by representative loading spectra with the small discontinuities from which they grow and shows that the fatigue process is remarkably consistent down to very small sizes.
Transient thermo‐elastic disturbances in a visco‐elastic semi‐space due to moving internal heat source
Authors: Lotfy Kh. 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate the transient disturbances created by an internal line heat source that suddenly starts moving uniformly inside a visco‐elastic half‐space.Design/methodology/approachGeneralised theory of thermo‐elasticity with relaxation time proposed by Lord‐Shulman is applied. The material of the semi‐infinite medium is an isotropic visco‐elastic solid of Kelvin‐Voight type. Fourier and Laplace transform techniques are used.FindingsApplying the Fourier and Laplace transform techniques, expressions for displacement components in the transformed domain are found. These expressions prove the existence of three waves – a modified thermal wave, a visco‐elastic wave of defused nature and a transverse visco‐elastic wave.Research limitations/implicationsSurface displacement components were evaluated on the boundary for only a short time.Originality/valueThe paper provides numerical results that are illustrated graphically to highlight the variations of surface displacement components with distance for different values of time, source depth and velocity of the source.
Improvement of fatigue limit by shot peening for high‐strength steel containing a crack‐like surface defect
Authors: Takahashi Koji , Amano Toshihiko , Ando Kotoji , Takahashi Fumio 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe paper's aim is to investigate the effects of shot peening (SP) on the bending fatigue limit of high‐strength steel containing an artificial semi‐circular slit.Design/methodology/approachSP and stress SP (SSP) were conducted on the specimens containing an artificial semi‐circular slit with a depth of a=0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mm. Then, bending fatigue tests were conducted on the specimens.FindingsThe fatigue limit was improved by SP and SSP. In the case of SP and SSP specimens, the specimens with a semi‐circular slit under a=0.2 mm fractured outside the slit, and they had considerably high fatigue limits. Therefore, a semi‐circular slit with a depth of under a=0.2 mm could be rendered harmless by SP or SSP. It was found that the fatigue limit of specimens with a semi‐circular slit that received SP or SSP was determined by the threshold condition for non‐propagation of fatigue cracks that emanated from outside the slit. Whether the semi‐circular slit is rendered harmless or not is decided by the relationship between the stress intensity factor range of semi‐circular cracks and the threshold stress intensity factor range.Practical implicationsThe proposed method can be applied to mechanical parts used in vehicles, aircraft and trains.Originality/valueThere are very few examples of evaluations of fatigue limits after SP in materials containing crack‐like surface defects. This study calcifies the effect of SP on the fatigue limit having crack‐like surface defects.
Automated overlays for laser peening
Authors: Gaydos Peter A. , Dulaney Jeff L. 
Published: September 2011

PurposeSacrificial opaque overlays used in laser peening provide optimal processing and protect the surface of the part being processed from thermal damage from the laser pulses. Traditional solid film overlays for laser peening often require several applications and the running of multiple partial laser peening sequences in order to completely process the desired surface. This paper aims to discuss an automated overlay system that eliminates these issues.Design/methodology/approachLSP Technologies' (LSPT') patented RapidCoater™ automated overlay system provides optimal laser processing and surface protection by providing a conformal opaque layer that is automatically refreshed between each laser pulses. PLC control provides precise timing of the application of the process overlays in synchronization with the laser pulse.FindingsUse of the RapidCoater system has been shown to reduce processing time by up to five times when compared to using tape overlays. Cost reductions of about 40 percent are also achieved.Originality/valueLSPT, Inc. invented and developed this proprietary technology to provide its laser peening customers with higher productivity and improved process affordability.
Use of an orthogonal array based on the Kriging model to maximize the fatigue life of a turbine blade
Authors: Lee Kwang‐Ki , Lee Kwon‐Hee , Han Seung‐Ho 
Published: September 2011

PurposeApproximation techniques were used instead of expensive computing analysis in a traditional parametric design optimization of a complex system. A Kriging meta‐model was utilized, which enabled the fit of approximated design characteristics for a complex system such as turbine blades that incorporate a large number of design variables and non‐linear behaviors. This paper aims to discuss these issues.Design/methodology/approachThe authors constructed a Kriging meta‐model with a multi‐level orthogonal array for the design of experiments, which were used to optimize the fatigue life of turbine blades under cyclic rotational loads such as centrifugal force. By combining a seven‐level orthogonal array with the Kriging model, the non‐linear design space of fatigue life was explored and optimized.FindingsA computer‐generated multi‐level orthogonal array provided a good representation of the non‐linear design space information. The results show that not only was the fatigue life of the leading edge of the blade root significantly improved, but also that the computing analysis was effective.Originality/valueTo maximize the fatigue life of the turbine blade, the three‐design variables with seven factor levels were optimized via a Kriging meta‐model. As with the optimization technique, a desirability function approach was adopted, which converted multiple responses into a single response problem by maximizing the total desirability.
Laser cladding as a potential repair technology for damaged aircraft components
Authors: Liu Qianchu , Janardhana Madabhushi , Hinton Bruce , Brandt Milan , Sharp Khan 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the preliminary work on using laser cladding technology for the restoration of structural integrity.Design/methodology/approachThe primary methodology used in this research is to develop a laser cladding‐based metal deposition technique to articulate restoration of structural geometry affected by corrosion damages. Following from this method, it is planned to undertake further work to use the laser cladding process to restore geometry and the associated static/fatigue strength.FindingsThis work has found that it is possible to use laser cladding as a repair technology to improve structural integrity in aluminium alloy aircraft structures in terms of corrosion reduction and geometrical restoration. Initial results have indicated a reduction of static and fatigue resistance with respect to substrate. But more recent works (yet to be published) have revealed improved fatigue strength as measured in comparison to the substrate structural properties.Originality/valueThe research is based on an acceptable materials processing technique.
Science and technology development and the depoliticization of the public space
Authors: Macdonald Linda R. , Varey Richard J. , Barker James R. 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe authors aim to review a five‐year multi‐study research programme on the role of public dialogue in the social and cultural sustainability of biotechnology developments in New Zealand.Design/methodology/approachThe authors conducted a critical review of all the published research products from a five‐year government‐funded study of the cultural and social aspects of sustainable biotechnology in New Zealand.FindingsThe review research highlights how New Zealand Government policies on biotechnology, which motivated the research programme, were fore‐grounded on economic progress and competitive positioning. Thus, debate on sustainable biotechnology issues became cast in economic and technical terms, while public dialogue became seen as diversionary and unsubstantiated. The analysis concludes that the programme was ineffective in influencing government policy and fell victim to the very problem of science governance that its purpose was designed to address.Research limitations/implicationsThe research develops implications regarding the ability of government‐funded sustainability research to influence policy.Originality/valueThe review focuses on the purpose, content, outcomes, and context of the research programme and identifies a number of key themes that arose from the programme that are useful for other sustainability policy researchers. The reviewers conclude that this case demonstrates that the marketization of the public sphere depoliticises the social and cultural construction of the nation's future.
Emissions trading in China: lessons from Taiyuan SO2 emissions trading program
Authors: Lu Zhen 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThis paper seeks to investigate sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions trading practice in China and discusses what it might reveal about the suitability of using emissions trading to achieve carbon reductions in China.Design/methodology/approachThe paper explores the Taiyuan SO2 emissions trading program case through interviews with key participants in the scheme. The interview questions are developed from the literature on emissions trading practice and theory.FindingsThe Taiyuan SO2 emissions trading program does not seem to be functioning anything like a theoretically ideal model and this brings into question proposals to introduce emissions trading in China. Limitations would seem to be the semi‐free market, the weakness of the legal system and the nature of business‐bureaucracy interactions.Research limitations/implicationsThis case study is geographically limited, as are most emissions trading schemes in China and the number of interviewees is relatively small. There was also little historical quantitative data because of the limited records kept in the enterprises and so there is a high reliance on interviewees' recollection.Practical implicationsThe evidence suggests that a national carbon trading scheme may not be suitable in China in the short run because the implementation of the program and emissions trading market are very important.Originality/valueThis is the first paper investigating the actual performance of SO2 emissions trading practice in China and also the first one discussing the suitability of using emissions trading to achieve carbon reductions in China based on the existing practice.
Reasons for sustainability reporting by New Zealand local governments
Authors: Bellringer Amber , Ball Amanda , Craig Russell 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThis study aims to draw on the New Zealand context to provide extensions and comparative insights to prior research that has canvassed the reasons for sustainability reporting by local governments. A base is provided from which more extensive and theoretically grounded research can proceed.Design/methodology/approachSemi‐structured exploratory interviews were conducted in mid‐2009 in each of five local government councils in New Zealand with the person responsible for preparing the sustainability report.FindingsLocal governments in New Zealand were prompted to engage in sustainability reporting for reasons of leadership, accountability, and financial incentive; and by a need to bolster important internal stakeholders. Sustainability reporting by local governments in New Zealand does not appear to be motivated strongly by an idealistic desire to ensure a sustainable world, but more by pragmatism and economic rationalism.Originality/valueNew Zealand provides a unique setting in which to explore why local governments prepare sustainability reports. New Zealand has a statutory requirement for local governments to adopt a principles‐based approach to sustainable development. Additionally, public relations crisis management theory is drawn upon to provide some fresh perspective on reasons for sustainability reporting.
Co‐operative performance
Authors: Mayo Ed 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to consider the historical basis of development of corporate social responsibility and the impact of this on co‐operative enterprises and member‐owned businesses.Design/methodology/approachThis is a viewpoint identified by years of experience dealing with co‐operative organisations.FindingsThe paper finds that the basis of development of corporate social responsibility from the perspective of commercial corporations does not promote an adequate accounting framework for co‐operative enterprises and member‐owned businesses.Research limitations/implicationsPractitioners in different areas of business are trying to make sense of sustainability accounting and reporting in a commercial setting. This piece by one of these, draws on a topical initiative around co‐operative enterprises to raise questions around what is meant by performance in the context of member‐owned enterprises and whether the field of corporate social responsibility has overlooked the relevance of ownership in terms of organisational incentives for action.Practical implicationsThe author proposes a series of definitions for co‐operative performance, which are designed to underpin metrics that relate to “member value”. This is offered in contrast to “shareholder value” for companies that, unlike co‐operatives, are owned by external shareholders.Social implicationsThe field of corporate social responsibility is a major user and innovator of the tools and techniques for sustainability accounting and reporting. But it tends to be silent on ownership. However, if different models of ownership create different incentives for action on sustainable development, then rather than just accounting for “how” an enterprise operates, however it is owned and led, there may be value in tools to test “whether” an institution is fit for purpose in its fundamental design.Originality/valueThe paper develops a new perspective and future research opportunities in identifying performance measures for co‐operative enterprises.
The development of leaders able to respond to climate change and sustainability challenges
Authors: Adams Carol A. , Heijltjes Marielle G. , Jack Gavin , Marjoribanks Tim , Powell Michael 
Published: September 2011

PurposeThis paper seeks to discuss the role of business academics and business schools in the development of leaders able to respond to climate change and sustainability challenges.Design/methodology/approachThe paper captures contributions made during a panel discussion at the First Academic Symposium on Leadership for Climate Change and Sustainability held at La Trobe University, Melbourne in February 2011. The Symposium preceded the 10th General Assembly of the Globally Responsible Leadership Initiative (GRLI) held in Melbourne and the authors are from GRLI partner organisations.FindingsThere is a pressing need for business schools to focus on the development of personal and leadership skills, to draw staff from outside the traditional business disciplines and to reflect the gender and race diversity of the population in which they are located. The change required in business education to develop leaders who can respond to climate change and sustainability challenges is as significant as the changes needed to the way businesses operate.Practical implicationsThe paper identifies changes required in business leadership and outlines key elements of change needed in business education. It assists business school leaders in articulating the business case for business schools to address these issues and navigate potential barriers.Originality/valueThe paper brings together the views of five professors from a different disciplinary background (accounting, critical management, organisational behaviour, organisational design and sociology) with leadership positions in business schools and universities.
Interleukin‐13 Induces T Helper Type 2 Immune Responses in OVA‐Immunized BALB/c Mice Bearing a T Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Deepak P. , Acharya A. 
Published: September 2011

AbstractT lymphocytes play a crucial role in the regulation of immune responses against the tumour cells. Tumour progression results in dysfunction and inhibition of T cells, which ultimately leads to impairment in the antitumour immune response. The impaired antitumour immune response in the host is represented by the decreased number of T cells and their incomplete and improper function. The immunosuppressive network in tumour‐bearing host mediated by tumour cells also leads to the inequities of T cell subsets and imbalance of Th1/Th2 dichotomy. Therefore, in the present study, we sought to investigate the role of tumour progression in the development of T cell phenotype and the involvement of interleukin‐13 thereof selecting Dalton’s lymphoma (DL) as a tumour model. It was observed that a significant increase in the number of CD4+ T cell population, whereas a significant decline in the CD8+ T cells among lymphoid cell population of OVA‐immunized DL‐bearing BALB/c mice occurs. Similar observation was found following the administration of IL‐13 to the normal healthy mice. It was further confirmed that expansion in Th2 type cells among CD4+ T cell population occurs following the progression of tumour and administration of IL‐13 to normal healthy mice by an yet to define mechanism. Therefore, it can be concluded that IL‐13 has immense role in polarizing the immune responses by inducing the differentiation of Th2 type of cells.
Human Leucocytes Response to Viable, Extended Freeze‐Drying or Heat‐Killed Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette–Guérin
Authors: Moreira J. , Aragão‐Filho W. C. , Barillas S. G. , Barbosa S. M. , Pedroza L. A. , Condino‐Neto A. 
Published: September 2011

AbstractWe investigated the effects of viable, extended freeze‐drying (EFD) or heat‐killed (HK) Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) in respiratory burst activity, gene expression of CYBB and NCF1 encoding components of the human phagocyte nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADPH) oxidase, TLR2 expression, and in IL‐10 and TNF‐α cytokine production by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Viable BCG significantly inhibited TLR2 and CYBB gene expression, as well as superoxide release by human PBMC. All BCG stimuli augmented IL‐10 release, but only HK BCG or viable BCG increased TNF‐α release by PBMCs. Our studies show that viable BCG can impair the NADPH oxidase system activation and the TLR2 route in human PBMCs. As well, different BCG preparations can distinctly influence cytokine production by human PBMCs.
Expression of G protein αq Subunit is Decreased in Lymphocytes from Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and is Correlated with Disease Activity
Authors: Wang Y. , Li Y. , He Y. , Sun Y. , Sun W. , Xie Q. , Yin G. , Du Y. , Wang L. , Shi G. 
Published: September 2011

AbstractGαq, the alpha subunit of Gq, a member of the Gq/11 sub‐family, was reported to inhibit phosphatidylinositol‐3‐Kinase (PI3K) activation and prevent the activation of Akt. Previous studies demonstrated that mice losing Gαq in their immune system could spontaneously develop inflammatory arthritis. In this study, we showed that the Gαq expressions at mRNA and protein levels in the peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were significantly decreased in comparison of which in healthy individuals. The expression levels of Gαq mRNA in PBLs from patients with RA were correlated with RA disease activity (DAS28), anti‐cyclic citrullinated protein antibodies, C‐reactive protein and rheumatoid factor. We also demonstrated that Gαq controlled the apoptosis of RA PBLs through regulating the activity of Mcl‐1 and caspase‐3. These data suggested that Gαq might be involved in the pathogenesis of RA by regulating PBLs apoptosis.