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1 – 10 of over 2000
Article
Publication date: 9 June 2023

Honggui Di, Yuyin Jin, Shunhua Zhou and Di Wu

The application of servo steel struts enables the active control of the excavation-induced deformation in foundation pits. However, there is currently only one design axial force…

Abstract

Purpose

The application of servo steel struts enables the active control of the excavation-induced deformation in foundation pits. However, there is currently only one design axial force for each servo steel strut, which requires in-situ axial force adjustments based on the experience of site engineers. The purpose of this study is to develop a method for determining the design axial forces of servo steel struts at different excavation steps.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a hybrid method for determining the design axial forces of servo steel struts in different excavation steps was established based on the combination of the elastic foundation beam model and nonlinear optimisation.

Findings

The hybrid method is capable of providing a better set of design axial forces than the original design method. The lateral wall displacement and bending moment could be better controlled. Ordinary steel struts should be prevented from being set between servo steel struts to avoid axial force losses.

Practical implications

The axial forces of the servo steel struts at different excavation steps should be designed to achieve better deformation control effects. Moreover, a well-designed set of axial forces can also reduce the internal forces of the retaining structure.

Originality/value

The hybrid method enables the determination of the design axial forces of servo steel struts at different excavation steps, which can guide axial force adjustments in practical projects.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 40 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 May 2023

Hanuman Reddy N., Amit Lathigara, Rajanikanth Aluvalu and Uma Maheswari V.

Cloud computing (CC) refers to the usage of virtualization technology to share computing resources through the internet. Task scheduling (TS) is used to assign computational…

Abstract

Purpose

Cloud computing (CC) refers to the usage of virtualization technology to share computing resources through the internet. Task scheduling (TS) is used to assign computational resources to requests that have a high volume of pending processing. CC relies on load balancing to ensure that resources like servers and virtual machines (VMs) running on real servers share the same amount of load. VMs are an important part of virtualization, where physical servers are transformed into VM and act as physical servers during the process. It is possible that a user’s request or data transmission in a cloud data centre may be the reason for the VM to be under or overloaded with data.

Design/methodology/approach

VMs are an important part of virtualization, where physical servers are transformed into VM and act as physical servers during the process. It is possible that a user’s request or data transmission in a cloud data centre may be the reason for the VM to be under or overloaded with data. With a large number of VM or jobs, this method has a long makespan and is very difficult. A new idea to cloud loads without decreasing implementation time or resource consumption is therefore encouraged. Equilibrium optimization is used to cluster the VM into underloaded and overloaded VMs initially in this research. Underloading VMs is used to improve load balance and resource utilization in the second stage. The hybrid algorithm of BAT and the artificial bee colony (ABC) helps with TS using a multi-objective-based system. The VM manager performs VM migration decisions to provide load balance among physical machines (PMs). When a PM is overburdened and another PM is underburdened, the decision to migrate VMs is made based on the appropriate conditions. Balanced load and reduced energy usage in PMs are achieved in the former case. Manta ray foraging (MRF) is used to migrate VMs, and its decisions are based on a variety of factors.

Findings

The proposed approach provides the best possible scheduling for both VMs and PMs. To complete the task, improved whale optimization algorithm for Cloud TS has 42 s of completion time, enhanced multi-verse optimizer has 48 s, hybrid electro search with a genetic algorithm has 50 s, adaptive benefit factor-based symbiotic organisms search has 38 s and, finally, the proposed model has 30 s, which shows better performance of the proposed model.

Originality/value

User’s request or data transmission in a cloud data centre may cause the VMs to be under or overloaded with data. To identify the load on VM, initially EQ algorithm is used for clustering process. To figure out how well the proposed method works when the system is very busy by implementing hybrid algorithm called BAT–ABC. After the TS process, VM migration is occurred at the final stage, where optimal VM is identified by using MRF algorithm. The experimental analysis is carried out by using various metrics such as execution time, transmission time, makespan for various iterations, resource utilization and load fairness. With its system load, the metric gives load fairness. How load fairness is worked out depends on how long each task takes to do. It has been added that a cloud system may be able to achieve more load fairness if tasks take less time to finish.

Details

International Journal of Pervasive Computing and Communications, vol. 20 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1742-7371

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 July 2022

Amol Vasant Bhide and Milind M. Akarte

This paper aims to assess the feasibility of a hybrid manufacturing and remanufacturing system (HMRS) for essential commodities in the context of COVID-19. Specifically, it…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the feasibility of a hybrid manufacturing and remanufacturing system (HMRS) for essential commodities in the context of COVID-19. Specifically, it emphasises using HMRS based on costs associated with various manufacturing activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The combination of mathematical model and system dynamics is used to model the HMRS system. The model was tried on sanitiser bottle manufacturing to generalise the result.

Findings

The remanufacturing cost is higher because of reverse logistics, inspection and holding costs. Ultimately remanufacturing costs turn out to be lesser than the original manufacturing the moment system attains stability.

Practical implications

The study put forth the reason to encourage remanufacturing towards sustainability through government incentives.

Originality/value

The study put forth the feasibility of the HMRS system for an essential commodity in the context of a covid pandemic. The research implemented system dynamics for modelling and validation.

Article
Publication date: 16 August 2022

Jianlan Zhong, Han Cheng, Xiaowei Chen and Fu Jia

This paper aims to systematically review the literature on quality management in agri-food supply chains (SCs) and propose an integrated conceptual framework.

576

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to systematically review the literature on quality management in agri-food supply chains (SCs) and propose an integrated conceptual framework.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review that analyses 93 papers in peer-reviewed academic journals published from 1996 to November 2021 is conducted. A conceptual model is advanced.

Findings

Based on a hierarchy of capabilities perspective, the authors develop an integrated conceptual framework in which SC quality (SCQ) management practices promote three levels of SC dynamic capabilities, which in turn lead to agri-food SCQ performance.

Originality/value

The authors propose a hierarchy of capabilities perspective of quality management in agri-food SCs and develop a conceptual framework. Furthermore, a number of propositions based on dynamic capabilities and the review findings are provided. Four future research directions are presented.

Details

Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, vol. 28 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-8546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 March 2024

Rida Belahouaoui and El Houssain Attak

This paper aims to analyze the impact of tax digitalization, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and blockchain technologies, on enhancing tax compliance…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the impact of tax digitalization, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and blockchain technologies, on enhancing tax compliance behavior in various contexts. It seeks to understand how these emerging digital tools influence taxpayer behaviors and compliance levels and to assess their effectiveness in reducing tax evasion and avoidance practices.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a systematic review technique with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method, this study evaluates 62 papers collected from the Scopus database. The papers were analyzed through textometry of titles, abstracts and keywords to identify prevailing trends and insights.

Findings

The review reveals that digitalization, particularly through AI and blockchain, significantly enhances tax compliance and operational efficiency. However, challenges persist, especially in emerging economies, regarding the adoption and integration of these technologies in tax systems. The findings indicate a global trend toward digital Tax Administration 3.0, emphasizing the importance of regulatory frameworks, capacity building and simplification for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Practical implications

The findings provide guidance for policymakers and tax administrations, underscoring the necessity of strategic planning, regulatory backing and global cooperation to effectively use digital technologies in tax compliance. Emphasizing the need for tailored support for SMEs, the study also calls for expanded research in less represented areas and specific sectors, such as SMEs and developing economies, to deepen global insights into digital tax compliance.

Originality/value

This study has attempted to fill the gap in the literature on the comprehensive impact of fiscal digitalization, particularly AI-based, on tax compliance across different global contexts, adding to the discourse on digital taxation.

Details

Accounting Research Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1030-9616

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 June 2023

Sepehr Namirad, Mehdi Deiranlou and Seyed Mojtaba Sajadi

Today, the use of smart technologies in healthcare systems is experiencing exponential growth, and the future of healthcare is seemingly closely intertwined with such…

Abstract

Purpose

Today, the use of smart technologies in healthcare systems is experiencing exponential growth, and the future of healthcare is seemingly closely intertwined with such technologies. Thus, any exploration of the factors that influence human health and healthcare systems inevitably touches upon the subject of new technologies. This study aims to design a conceptual model to investigate the elements that affect individuals' openness to accepting and using mobile healthcare applications (mHealth apps) and their reciprocal effects.

Design/methodology/approach

After a brief review of the literature, the authors identify the influential factors in the acceptance of smart technologies in healthcare systems and present a conceptual model in this regard. Next, the authors analyze the factors and variables and the extent of their impact by a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. The statistical population of this study consists of 421 individuals including the developers, consultants and users (i.e. patients) of mHealth apps. Data analysis was done on the statistical software SPSS v.26, while SEM was carried out using the partial least squares (PLS) method on the modeling software SmartPLS.

Findings

The results indicate that user, consultant and developer preferences have a positive and significant impact on time, quality of life, managing chronic conditions and cooperation, and these constructs (system performance) finally have a positive and significant impact on the acceptance of mobile healthcare technologies.

Originality/value

This paper shows that mHealth apps can have a remarkable role in the prevention and treatment of medical conditions, and it is strongly recommended that this technology be utilized in the studied region.

Details

American Journal of Business, vol. 38 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1935-5181

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 October 2023

Zhuyue Li and Chunxiao Zhang

Supply chain risk management can effectively reduce the loss of retailers. In this regard, retailers need to consider the competition risks of competitors in addition to the…

Abstract

Purpose

Supply chain risk management can effectively reduce the loss of retailers. In this regard, retailers need to consider the competition risks of competitors in addition to the disruption risks. This paper designs a resilient retail supply chain network for perishable foods under the dynamic competition to maximize retailer's profits.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-stage mixed-integer non-linear model is presented for designing the supply chain network. In the first stage, an equilibrium model that considers the characteristics of perishable foods is developed. In the second stage, a mixed integer non-linear programming model is presented to deal with the strategic decisions. Finally, an efficient memetic algorithm is designed to deal with large-scale problems.

Findings

The optimal the selection of suppliers, distribution centers and the order allocation are found among the supply chain entities. Considering the perishability of agri-food products, the equilibrium retail price and selling quantity are determined. Through a numerical example, the optimal inventory period under different maximum shelf life and the impact of three resilient strategies on retailer's profit, selling price and selling quantity are analyzed.

Research limitations/implications

As for future research, the research can be extended in a number of directions. First, this paper studies the retail supply chain network design problem under competition among retailers. It can be an interesting direction to consider retailers competing with suppliers. Second, the authors can try to linearize the non-linear model and solve the large-scale integer programming problem by exact algorithm. Finally, the freshness of perishable foods gradually declines linearly to zero as the maximum shelf life approaches, and it would be a meaningful attempt to consider the freshness of perishable foods declines exponentially.

Originality/value

This paper innovatively designs the resilient supply chain network for perishable foods under dynamic competition. The retailer's dynamic competition and resilient strategies are considered simultaneously when designing supply chain network for perishable foods. In addition, this paper gives insights into how to obtain the optimal inventory period and compare the retailer's resilient strategies.

Article
Publication date: 17 February 2022

Prajakta Thakare and Ravi Sankar V.

Agriculture is the backbone of a country, contributing more than half of the sector of economy throughout the world. The need for precision agriculture is essential in evaluating…

Abstract

Purpose

Agriculture is the backbone of a country, contributing more than half of the sector of economy throughout the world. The need for precision agriculture is essential in evaluating the conditions of the crops with the aim of determining the proper selection of pesticides. The conventional method of pest detection fails to be stable and provides limited accuracy in the prediction. This paper aims to propose an automatic pest detection module for the accurate detection of pests using the hybrid optimization controlled deep learning model.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper proposes an advanced pest detection strategy based on deep learning strategy through wireless sensor network (WSN) in the agricultural fields. Initially, the WSN consisting of number of nodes and a sink are clustered as number of clusters. Each cluster comprises a cluster head (CH) and a number of nodes, where the CH involves in the transfer of data to the sink node of the WSN and the CH is selected using the fractional ant bee colony optimization (FABC) algorithm. The routing process is executed using the protruder optimization algorithm that helps in the transfer of image data to the sink node through the optimal CH. The sink node acts as the data aggregator and the collection of image data thus obtained acts as the input database to be processed to find the type of pest in the agricultural field. The image data is pre-processed to remove the artifacts present in the image and the pre-processed image is then subjected to feature extraction process, through which the significant local directional pattern, local binary pattern, local optimal-oriented pattern (LOOP) and local ternary pattern (LTP) features are extracted. The extracted features are then fed to the deep-convolutional neural network (CNN) in such a way to detect the type of pests in the agricultural field. The weights of the deep-CNN are tuned optimally using the proposed MFGHO optimization algorithm that is developed with the combined characteristics of navigating search agents and the swarming search agents.

Findings

The analysis using insect identification from habitus image Database based on the performance metrics, such as accuracy, specificity and sensitivity, reveals the effectiveness of the proposed MFGHO-based deep-CNN in detecting the pests in crops. The analysis proves that the proposed classifier using the FABC+protruder optimization-based data aggregation strategy obtains an accuracy of 94.3482%, sensitivity of 93.3247% and the specificity of 94.5263%, which is high as compared to the existing methods.

Originality/value

The proposed MFGHO optimization-based deep-CNN is used for the detection of pest in the crop fields to ensure the better selection of proper cost-effective pesticides for the crop fields in such a way to increase the production. The proposed MFGHO algorithm is developed with the integrated characteristic features of navigating search agents and the swarming search agents in such a way to facilitate the optimal tuning of the hyperparameters in the deep-CNN classifier for the detection of pests in the crop fields.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. 22 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 April 2024

Ting Zhou, Yingjie Wei, Jian Niu and Yuxin Jie

Metaheuristic algorithms based on biology, evolutionary theory and physical principles, have been widely developed for complex global optimization. This paper aims to present a…

Abstract

Purpose

Metaheuristic algorithms based on biology, evolutionary theory and physical principles, have been widely developed for complex global optimization. This paper aims to present a new hybrid optimization algorithm that combines the characteristics of biogeography-based optimization (BBO), invasive weed optimization (IWO) and genetic algorithms (GAs).

Design/methodology/approach

The significant difference between the new algorithm and original optimizers is a periodic selection scheme for offspring. The selection criterion is a function of cyclic discharge and the fitness of populations. It differs from traditional optimization methods where the elite always gains advantages. With this method, fitter populations may still be rejected, while poorer ones might be likely retained. The selection scheme is applied to help escape from local optima and maintain solution diversity.

Findings

The efficiency of the proposed method is tested on 13 high-dimensional, nonlinear benchmark functions and a homogenous slope stability problem. The results of the benchmark function show that the new method performs well in terms of accuracy and solution diversity. The algorithm converges with a magnitude of 10-4, compared to 102 in BBO and 10-2 in IWO. In the slope stability problem, the safety factor acquired by the analogy of slope erosion (ASE) is closer to the recommended value.

Originality/value

This paper introduces a periodic selection strategy and constructs a hybrid optimizer, which enhances the global exploration capacity of metaheuristic algorithms.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 41 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 January 2022

Vahid Goodarzimehr, Fereydoon Omidinasab and Nasser Taghizadieh

This paper aims to present a new hybrid algorithm of Particle Swarm Optimization and the Genetic Algorithm (PSOGA) to optimize the space trusses with continuous design variables…

147

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a new hybrid algorithm of Particle Swarm Optimization and the Genetic Algorithm (PSOGA) to optimize the space trusses with continuous design variables. The PSOGA is an efficient hybridized algorithm to solve optimization problems.

Design/methodology/approach

These algorithms have shown outstanding performance in solving optimization problems with continuous variables. The PSO conceptually models the social behavior of birds, in which individual birds exchange information about their position, velocity and fitness. The behavior of a flock is influencing the probability of migration to other regions with high fitness. The GAs procedure is based on the mechanism of natural selection. The present study uses mutation, random selection and reproduction to reach the best genetic algorithm by the operators of natural genetics. Thus, only identical chromosomes or particles can be converged.

Findings

In this research, using the idea of hybridization PSO and GA algorithms are hybridized and a new meta-heuristic algorithm is developed to minimize the space trusses with continuous design variables. To showing the efficiency and robustness of the new algorithm, several benchmark problems are solved and compared with other researchers.

Originality/value

The results indicate that the hybrid PSO algorithm improved in both exploration and exploitation. The PSO algorithm can be used to minimize the weight of structural problems under stress and displacement constraints.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. 20 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

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