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11 – 20 of over 89000
Article
Publication date: 24 December 2021

Aref Gholizadeh Manghutay, Mehdi Salay Naderi and Seyed Hamid Fathi

Heuristic algorithms have been widely used in different types of optimization problems. Their unique features in terms of running time and flexibility have made them superior to…

Abstract

Purpose

Heuristic algorithms have been widely used in different types of optimization problems. Their unique features in terms of running time and flexibility have made them superior to deterministic algorithms. To accurately compare different heuristic algorithms in solving optimization problems, the final optimal solution needs to be known. Existing deterministic methods such as Exhaustive Search and Integer Linear Programming can provide the final global optimal solution for small-scale optimization problems. However, as the system grows the number of calculations and required memory size incredibly increases, so applying existing deterministic methods is no longer possible for medium and large-scale systems. The purpose of this paper is to introduce a novel deterministic method with short running time and small memory size requirement for optimal placement of Micro Phasor Measurement Units (µPMUs) in radial electricity distribution systems to make the system completely observable.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the principle of the method is explained and the observability of the system is analyzed. Then, the algorithm’s running time and memory usage when applying on some of the modified versions of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 123-node test feeder are obtained and compared with those of its deterministic counterparts.

Findings

Because of the innovative method of step-by-step placement of µPMUs, a unique method is developed. Simulation results elucidate that the proposed method has unique features of short running time and small memory size requirements.

Originality/value

While the mathematical background of the observability study of electricity distribution systems is very well-presented in the referenced papers, the proposed step-by-step placement method of µPMUs, which shrinks unobservable parts of the system in each step, is not discussed yet. The presented paper is directly applicable to typical problems in the field of power systems.

Details

COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering , vol. 41 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0332-1649

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 October 2017

Bartosz Gawron, Tomasz Białecki, Anna Janicka, Aleksander Górniak and Maciej Zawiślak

The purpose of this paper is to present an assessment method of the toxicity emission evaluation during combustion in the miniature turbojet engine.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an assessment method of the toxicity emission evaluation during combustion in the miniature turbojet engine.

Design/methodology/approach

A small-scale turbojet engine was used for the research because measurements on real aircraft turbines are complex and expensive. The experiment was performed in accordance with innovative BAT – CELL Bio – Ambient Cell method which consists of determination of virtual toxic impact of the gas mixture on the living cells; it is therefore a direct method. The most significant innovation of this method is that, during the test, which consists of exposing the cells to the gas mixture, the cells are deprived of culture fluid.

Findings

The preliminary analysis shows that the method used here allows to determine the virtual impact of the gases on the human respiratory system and skin. It could be useful in defining the arduousness of an airport. The obtained results show that both of exhaust gases represent similar toxicity.

Practical implications

The new in vitro method allows to determine the virtual impact of the gases on the human respiratory system and skin. Significant potential for further research not only on the miniaturised engines, but also in the case of real objects, as this method does not have to be performed in a laboratory.

Originality/value

The work presents potential application of the innovatory method for exhaust gases toxicity evaluation in jet engines, which could be useful in defining the arduousness of an airport.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 89 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 September 2010

Sally Sambrook and Jim Stewart

This paper seeks to analyse and explore the results of a research project, which aimed to identify recent and current research on TLA within HRD programmes. From that base the…

1640

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to analyse and explore the results of a research project, which aimed to identify recent and current research on TLA within HRD programmes. From that base the project also intended to identify areas for future research and a basis for establishing a Special Interest Group.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive review of the literature was undertaken and an electronic questionnaire survey was conducted of academic members of the UFHRD, EHRHD and AHRD databases. This provided coverage of widespread international population.

Findings

Findings suggest that while research into HRD as a subject and academic discipline is very healthy, there is a dearth of research into the TLA of HRD educational programmes or at least research that is published. They also suggest that academics involved in delivering HRD programmes would welcome support in TLA through additional and new resources as well as ideas on innovative approaches and methods of TLA. TLA in HRD, though, is subject to some constraints, including the role of the professional body in the UK and parts of Europe, the status of HRD in relation to wider business management as a subject and HRM in particular and the size and diversity of student groups. Respondents to the survey, however, were confident that these problems can be addressed.

Practical implications

A key conclusion drawn is that innovative practice in the TLA of HRD is probably more widespread than is evident from the literature. In addition, the notion of “innovative” does not have a fixed meaning and is context specific. This means that TLA practice, which is considered normal or usual in one context could and probably would constitute an innovation in different contexts.

Originality/value

Provides the first overview of research into the TLA of HRD educational programmes.

Details

Journal of European Industrial Training, vol. 34 no. 8/9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0590

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 19 November 2015

Jessica M. Santoro, Aurora J. Dixon, Chu-Hsiang Chang and Steve W. J. Kozlowski

Team cohesion and other team processes are inherently dynamic mechanisms that contribute to team effectiveness. Unfortunately, extant research has typically treated team cohesion…

Abstract

Team cohesion and other team processes are inherently dynamic mechanisms that contribute to team effectiveness. Unfortunately, extant research has typically treated team cohesion and other processes as static, and failed to capture how these processes change over time and the implications of these changes. In this chapter, we discuss the characteristics of team process dynamics and highlight the importance of temporal considerations when measuring team cohesion. We introduce innovative research methods that can be applied to assess and monitor team cohesion and other process dynamics. Finally, we discuss future directions for the research and practical applications of these new methods to enhance our understanding of the dynamics of team cohesion and other processes.

Details

Team Cohesion: Advances in Psychological Theory, Methods and Practice
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78560-283-2

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 March 2022

Matthew W. Hurtienne, Jennifer Knowles and Laura E. Hurtienne

This paper aims to look at how participant photography can be used in human resource development (HRD) as a research method that is innovative and inclusive. In published work on…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to look at how participant photography can be used in human resource development (HRD) as a research method that is innovative and inclusive. In published work on traditional photo elicitation methods, the participant is shown previously prepared visual images to create knowledge. This can provoke an inaccurate depiction due to the images being previously prepared. Participant photography differs greatly from the traditional photo-elicitation method. In participant photography, the participant is provided with the opportunity to capture their own visual images of the surrounding environment, allowing for data to be captured through their own eyes. More notably, participants voice their own experiences after taking the photographs as a means for providing rich data for researchers.

Design/methodology/approach

Participant photography is an innovative qualitative research method where the research participant is encouraged to document their lived experiences through images taken by the participant. Additionally, the participants take part in individual interviews and group individual sessions to further explain the images.

Findings

The research findings can lead to deeper insight into the research topic and even accommodate potential issues related to literacy and language barriers. By introducing a new qualitative research method to HRD, the lived experiences can be documented and examined in a new, different and arguably more accurate way.

Research limitations/implications

Literature discussing participant photography in HRD is limited. Although this limitation puts constraints on this study, it creates an opportunity to further define how participant photography can be used in HRD. This method offers a means for HRD researchers and practitioners to focus on the voices of participants to improve organizations.

Practical implications

This study addresses how participant photography can be used in the field of HRD by describing the process of participant recruitment, implementation of the method, participant interviews, group discussion and analysis. Specifically, this study focused on the practical application, including the method’s strengths, potential weaknesses and ethical challenges.

Social implications

The method of participant photography has been commonly used in community-based studies, public health projects and medical research projects, yet in ever-changing HRD needs, there are many advantages for the field of HRD to implement this method.

Originality/value

Although the concept of participant photography is still in its infancy in HRD, this study explains how participant photography can be used for both researchers and practitioners to gain a deeper understanding and knowledge of topics related to HRD.

Details

European Journal of Training and Development, vol. 46 no. 7/8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-9012

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 May 2010

Saleh Abu Dabous and Sabah Alkass

A bridge network is a major capital asset that requires continuing investment in order to maintain the network within acceptable limits of safety and serviceability. Ranking and…

1157

Abstract

Purpose

A bridge network is a major capital asset that requires continuing investment in order to maintain the network within acceptable limits of safety and serviceability. Ranking and prioritizing procedures have been widely used by several departments of transportation to select bridges for intervention and to distribute the available funds among competing projects. The available ranking and prioritizing procedures have various drawbacks, and an improved, rational ranking and prioritizing procedure is needed. The paper aims to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The requirements and characteristics of an innovative ranking and prioritizing method are identified during interviews with professionals involved in bridge management. Based on these requirements, multi‐attribute utility theory (MAUT) is selected to develop the method. A technique to develop utility functions based on the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) is discussed. A hierarchy structure that captures the decision‐making elements is presented. A case study is used to demonstrate the applicability and the validity of the proposed ranking method.

Findings

The research findings have identified the decision objectives and the criteria essential to rank and prioritize bridge projects, and these are included within a framework to rank and prioritize bridge projects while incorporating experts' input in the process.

Practical implications

The proposed framework includes weights for the various objectives and recommends utility functions to evaluate the different attributes. In addition, the framework provides flexibility to adjust the weights and to modify the utility functions to reflect network‐specific characteristics. This method can be used by departments of transportation to rank bridges in a network, even incorporating conflicting criteria, and it can be integrated within an already implemented bridge management methodology.

Originality/value

Ranking and prioritizing projects are essential steps in bridge management. Current methods for ranking and prioritizing bridge projects are associated with various drawbacks. This paper proposes an innovative ranking method for bridge networks, based on MAUT. This theory provides flexibility for the decision makers in expressing their degree of satisfaction with each bridge attribute.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 17 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 March 2022

Xin Feng, Lei Yu, Weixin Kong and Jingya Wang

With the continuous improvement of social and economic development as well as the rising level of demand for spiritual life, the design of cultural and creative products has…

1429

Abstract

Purpose

With the continuous improvement of social and economic development as well as the rising level of demand for spiritual life, the design of cultural and creative products has ushered in new opportunities and challenges. Therefore the research related to cultural and creative products design is an inevitable choice for industrial innovation and market competition. The article aims to analyze the frontier hotspots and trend evolution of theoretical research on cultural and creative design in China by presenting different research fields, personnel and institutions embodied by cultural and creative products, thus providing a forward-looking development reference for China's special cultural and creative product design practice.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the visualized citation analysis tool — CiteSpace V is used to analyze and map the relevant literature of Chinese cultural and creative design in CNKI (Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure) as the data sources, through bibliometric methods, in order to study the application development of Chinese cultural and creative design and provide reference for the application research of Chinese cultural and creative industries.

Findings

With the improvement of China's comprehensive strength, cultural self-confidence and strategy are being paid more and more attention by scholars; with the future research of China's cultural and creative design theory, cross-integration becomes the future trend; with the gradual maturity of China's cultural and creative design methodology, how to choose the right method for pioneering research is a difficulty for the future development of cultural and creative design; with the continuous development of China's economy, the method construction of innovative cultural and creative industry system becomes the focus of future research; with the continuous progress of science and technology, the integration of emotion and product industry is the mainstream of future development on cultural and creative design.

Originality/value

Through an objective empirical analysis of the development of Chinese cultural and creative products, it will broaden the research horizons of relevant scholars, understand the development direction of China's cultural and creative industries, enrich the design practice application of Chinese cultural and creative products, enhance the understanding of international counterparts on Chinese cultural and creative design research and promote the exchange among international counterparts.

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2003

John Barker and Susie Weller

Over the past ten years, geographers have contributed to the growing body of interdisciplinary research developing new ways of undertaking research with children. Traditional…

7122

Abstract

Over the past ten years, geographers have contributed to the growing body of interdisciplinary research developing new ways of undertaking research with children. Traditional research methods which do not directly involve working with children, such as the large scale observation of children, have been criticised for carrying out research on rather than with children. Instead, drawing upon the increasingly important children’s rights movement, researchers have been developing inclusive and participatory children centred methodologies, which place the voices of children, as social actors, at the centre of the research process. In this paper, we draw upon two ongoing postgraduate geographical research projects with children to reflect upon our own experiences of adopting children centred research methodologies. We also critically evaluate our own use of different innovative children centred research techniques, such as photographs, diaries, in‐depth interviews and surveys.We also highlight the importance of considering the impact of the spaces in which we conduct our research.

Details

International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, vol. 23 no. 1/2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-333X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 November 2017

Ann Tit Wan Yu

Students find courses in research methods delivered by lectures, both difficult and boring. The purpose of this paper is to provide empirical research on another teaching and…

Abstract

Purpose

Students find courses in research methods delivered by lectures, both difficult and boring. The purpose of this paper is to provide empirical research on another teaching and learning method, jigsaw method, to three groups of postgraduate students over three academic years.

Design/methodology/approach

The fifth topic of the course, qualitative research methods, was selected for implementation of the jigsaw class. The students completed a feedback questionnaire after classes to express their opinions and comments on the new method. Descriptive statistics and content analysis were used to test these data.

Findings

The students believed that the jigsaw method is an innovative teaching and learning activity and were generally satisfied with the process and the execution. They stated that participation was a valuable experience which enabled them to share knowledge with other classmates and gain a better understanding of the subject. Further improvements were also proposed by the students.

Research limitations/implications

First, the analysis of the implementation of the jigsaw methods is based on student perceptions rather than objective measures of learning gains. Second, the classes for full-time postgraduate students are relatively small. Data were collected, therefore, over three academic years to provide enough valid responses for analysis.

Originality/value

The research may be regarded as pioneering in relation to jigsaw classes for teaching and learning research methods in postgraduate course. The findings provide confidence to architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) academics to incorporate jigsaw methods in their courses. The results of this study provide useful information for AEC lecturers assisting them to design their classes using jigsaw methods.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 24 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 August 2019

Sajjad Nazir, Amina Shafi, Mian Muhammad Atif, Wang Qun and Syed Muhammad Abdullah

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relationships among organizational justice, innovative organization culture, perceived organizational support (POS), affective…

3468

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relationships among organizational justice, innovative organization culture, perceived organizational support (POS), affective commitment and innovative behavior (IB). The mediating role of POS is tested within the relationship of justice dimensions, affective commitment and IB.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for this research were collected from 367 managerial and executive employees working in manufacturing and IT sector firms in Pakistan. Structural equation modeling was utilized to test hypothesized relationships.

Findings

Results indicate that organizational justice (distributive, procedural and interactional justice), innovative organization culture and POS are significantly related to affective commitment and employees’ IB. The findings also showed that organizational justice stimulates employees’ affective commitment and IB through mediating POS as well as directly.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this study is its cross-sectional design and self-reported questionnaire data. This study is also limited to manufacturing and IT sector in Pakistan. Therefore, other sectors and geographical locations could be chosen for future research using a bigger sample size.

Originality/value

This study makes important theoretical contributions using social exchange theory. It also expands the research in the area of organizational justice dimensions, organizational culture and POS as antecedents of affective commitment and IB. This study is an exceptional investigation of justice, organization culture, POS, commitment and IB in the Pakistan cultural context.

Details

Employee Relations: The International Journal, vol. 41 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0142-5455

Keywords

11 – 20 of over 89000