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Article
Publication date: 6 October 2023

Omotayo Farai, Nicole Metje, Carl Anthony, Ali Sadeghioon and David Chapman

Wireless sensor networks (WSN), as a solution for buried water pipe monitoring, face a new set of challenges compared to traditional application for above-ground infrastructure…

Abstract

Purpose

Wireless sensor networks (WSN), as a solution for buried water pipe monitoring, face a new set of challenges compared to traditional application for above-ground infrastructure monitoring. One of the main challenges for underground WSN deployment is the limited range (less than 3 m) at which reliable wireless underground communication can be achieved using radio signal propagation through the soil. To overcome this challenge, the purpose of this paper is to investigate a new approach for wireless underground communication using acoustic signal propagation along a buried water pipe.

Design/methodology/approach

An acoustic communication system was developed based on the requirements of low cost (tens of pounds at most), low power supply capacity (in the order of 1 W-h) and miniature (centimetre scale) size for a wireless communication node. The developed system was further tested along a buried steel pipe in poorly graded SAND and a buried medium density polyethylene (MDPE) pipe in well graded SAND.

Findings

With predicted acoustic attenuation of 1.3 dB/m and 2.1 dB/m along the buried steel and MDPE pipes, respectively, reliable acoustic communication is possible up to 17 m for the buried steel pipe and 11 m for the buried MDPE pipe.

Research limitations/implications

Although an important first step, more research is needed to validate the acoustic communication system along a wider water distribution pipe network.

Originality/value

This paper shows the possibility of achieving reliable wireless underground communication along a buried water pipe (especially non-metallic material ones) using low-frequency acoustic propagation along the pipe wall.

Details

International Journal of Pervasive Computing and Communications, vol. 20 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1742-7371

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 March 2024

Mostafa Abdel-Hamied, Ahmed A.M. Abdelhafez and Gomaa Abdel-Maksoud

This study aims to focus on the main materials used in consolidation processes of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to focus on the main materials used in consolidation processes of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding.

Design/methodology/approach

For each material, chemical structure, chemical composition, molecular formula, solubility, advantages, disadvantages and its role in treatment process are presented.

Findings

This study concluded that carboxy methyl cellulose, hydroxy propyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, nanocrystalline cellulose, funori, sturgeon glue, poly vinyl alcohol, chitosan, chitosan nanoparticles (NPs), gelatin, aquazol, paraloid B72 and hydroxyapatite NPs were the most common and important materials used for the consolidation of illuminated paper manuscripts. For the leather bindings, hydroxy propyl cellulose, polyethylene glycol, oligomeric melamine-formaldehyde resin, acrylic wax SC6000, pliantex, paraloid B67 and B72, silicone oil and collagen NPs are the most consolidants used.

Originality/value

Illuminated paper manuscripts with leather binding are considered one of the most important objects in libraries, museums and storehouses. The uncontrolled conditions and other deterioration factors inside the libraries and storehouses lead to degradation of these artifacts. The brittleness, fragility and weakness are considered the most common deterioration aspects of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding. Therefore, the consolidation process became vital and important to solve this problem. This study presents the main materials used for consolidation process of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather bindings.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Abstract

Details

Communicating Climate
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83753-643-6

Article
Publication date: 26 April 2023

Imad El Fatmi, Soufyane Belhenini and Abdellah Tougui

The aim of this study is to make a contribution towards reducing the deflections of silicon wafers. The deformation of silicon wafers used in the manufacture of electronic…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to make a contribution towards reducing the deflections of silicon wafers. The deformation of silicon wafers used in the manufacture of electronic micro-components is one of the most common problems encountered by industrialists during manufacturing. Stack warping is typically produced during the process of depositing thin layers on a substrate. This is due to the thermal-mechanical stresses caused by the difference between the thermal expansion coefficients of the materials. Reducing wafer deformation is essential to increase reliability and improve quality. In this paper, the authors propose an approach based on minimal geometrical modifications to reduce the deformation of a silicon wafer coated with two thin layers. Numerical finite element models have been developed to evaluate the impact of geometrical modifications on warping amplitude. Finite element models have been validated compared with experimental models. The results obtained are encouraging and clearly show a considerable reduction in wafer deformation.

Design/methodology/approach

Reducing wafer deformation is essential to increase reliability and improve quality. In this paper, the authors propose an approach based on minimal geometrical modifications to reduce the deformation of a silicon wafer coated with two thin layers. Numerical finite element models have been developed to evaluate the impact of geometrical modifications on warping amplitude. Finite element models have been validated compared with experimental models.

Findings

The results obtained are encouraging and clearly show a considerable reduction in wafer deformation.

Originality/value

This paper describes the influence of geometric modification on wafer deformation. The work show also the cruciality of stress reduction in the purpose to obtain less wafer deformation.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 41 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 March 2024

Xiaohui Li, Dongfang Fan, Yi Deng, Yu Lei and Owen Omalley

This study aims to offer a comprehensive exploration of the potential and challenges associated with sensor fusion-based virtual reality (VR) applications in the context of…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to offer a comprehensive exploration of the potential and challenges associated with sensor fusion-based virtual reality (VR) applications in the context of enhanced physical training. The main objective is to identify key advancements in sensor fusion technology, evaluate its application in VR systems and understand its impact on physical training.

Design/methodology/approach

The research initiates by providing context to the physical training environment in today’s technology-driven world, followed by an in-depth overview of VR. This overview includes a concise discussion on the advancements in sensor fusion technology and its application in VR systems for physical training. A systematic review of literature then follows, examining VR’s application in various facets of physical training: from exercise, skill development and technique enhancement to injury prevention, rehabilitation and psychological preparation.

Findings

Sensor fusion-based VR presents tangible advantages in the sphere of physical training, offering immersive experiences that could redefine traditional training methodologies. While the advantages are evident in domains such as exercise optimization, skill acquisition and mental preparation, challenges persist. The current research suggests there is a need for further studies to address these limitations to fully harness VR’s potential in physical training.

Originality/value

The integration of sensor fusion technology with VR in the domain of physical training remains a rapidly evolving field. Highlighting the advancements and challenges, this review makes a significant contribution by addressing gaps in knowledge and offering directions for future research.

Details

Robotic Intelligence and Automation, vol. 44 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2754-6969

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 13 February 2024

I. Zografou, E. Galanaki, N. Pahos and I. Deligianni

Previous literature has identified human resources as a key source of competitive advantage in organizations of all sizes. However, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) face…

Abstract

Purpose

Previous literature has identified human resources as a key source of competitive advantage in organizations of all sizes. However, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) face difficulty in comprehensively implementing all recommended Human Resource Management (HRM) functions. In this study, we shed light on the field of HRM in SMEs by focusing on the context of Greek Small and Medium-sized Hotels (SMHs), which represent a dominant private sector employer across the country.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) and 34 in-depth interviews with SMHs' owners/managers, we explore the HRM conditions leading to high levels of performance, while taking into consideration the influence of internal key determinants.

Findings

We uncover three alternative successful HRM strategies that maximize business performance, namely the Compensation-based performers, the HRM developers and the HRM investors. Each strategy fits discreet organizational characteristics related to company size, ownership type and organizational structure.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge this is among the first empirical studies that examine different and equifinal performance-enhancing configurations of HRM practices in SMHs.

Book part
Publication date: 8 April 2024

Petra Růčková and Tomáš Heryán

As Czech export is widely considered the key to the economic development of Czechia, this chapter explores the relationship between microeconomic profitability among companies in…

Abstract

As Czech export is widely considered the key to the economic development of Czechia, this chapter explores the relationship between microeconomic profitability among companies in selected TOP10 export industries and the macroeconomic development of the export itself. An investigation was carried out to compare the differences caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the comparison is developed according to the size and concentration of ownership among exporting companies. Annual data are obtained from the Bureau van Dijk Orbis database to analyse profitability among 4,283 companies in 10 NACE industries from 2012 to 2021. We have obtained encouraging results, demonstrating that not only those less profitable companies affected export development. However, in general, our results emphasise the importance of those less profitable medium-sized companies for Czech export, within the manufacture of machinery and equipment, and the manufacture of motor vehicles in particular.

Details

Modeling Economic Growth in Contemporary Czechia
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83753-841-6

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 21 April 2023

Rana I. Mahmood, Harraa S. Mohammed-Salih, Ata’a Ghazi, Hikmat J. Abdulbaqi and Jameel R. Al-Obaidi

In the developing field of nano-materials synthesis, copper oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are deemed to be one of the most significant transition metal oxides because of their…

Abstract

Purpose

In the developing field of nano-materials synthesis, copper oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are deemed to be one of the most significant transition metal oxides because of their intriguing characteristics. Its synthesis employing green chemistry principles has become a key source for next-generation antibiotics attributed to its features such as environmental friendliness, ease of use and affordability. Because they are more environmentally benign, plants have been employed to create metallic NPs. These plant extracts serve as capping, stabilising or hydrolytic agents and enable a regulated synthesis as well.

Design/methodology/approach

Organic chemical solvents are harmful and entail intense conditions during nanoparticle synthesis. The copper oxide NPs (CuO-NPs) synthesised by employing the green chemistry principle showed potential antitumor properties. Green synthesised CuO-NPs are regarded to be a strong contender for applications in the pharmacological, biomedical and environmental fields.

Findings

The aim of this study is to evaluate the anticancer potential of CuO-NPs plant extracts to isolate and characterise the active anticancer principles as well as to yield more effective, affordable, and safer cancer therapies.

Originality/value

This review article highlights the copper oxide nanoparticle's biomedical applications such as anticancer, antimicrobial, dental and drug delivery properties, future research perspectives and direction are also discussed.

Details

Arab Gulf Journal of Scientific Research, vol. 42 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1985-9899

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 November 2022

Md Doulotuzzaman Xames, Fariha Kabir Torsha and Ferdous Sarwar

The purpose of this paper is to predict the machining performance of electrical discharge machining of Ti-13Nb-13Zr (TNZ) alloy, a promising biomedical alloy, using artificial…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to predict the machining performance of electrical discharge machining of Ti-13Nb-13Zr (TNZ) alloy, a promising biomedical alloy, using artificial neural networks (ANN) models.

Design/methodology/approach

In the research, three major performance characteristics, i.e. the material removal rate (MRR), tool wear rate (TWR) and surface roughness (SR), were chosen for the study. The input parameters for machining were the voltage, current, pulse-on time and pulse-off time. For the ANN model, a two-layer feedforward network with sigmoid hidden neurons and linear output neurons were chosen. Levenberg–Marquardt backpropagation algorithm was used to train the neural networks.

Findings

The optimal ANN structure comprises four neurons in input layer, ten neurons in hidden layer and one neuron in the output layer (4–10-1). In predicting MRR, the 60–20-20 data split provides the lowest MSE (0.0021179) and highest R-value for training (0.99976). On the contrary, the 70–15-15 data split results in the best performance in predicting both TWR and SR. The model achieves the lowest MSE and highest R-value for training in predicting TWR as 1.17E-06 and 0.84488, respectively. Increasing the number of hidden neurons of the network further deteriorates the performance. In predicting SR, the authors find the best MSE and R-value as 0.86748 and 0.94024, respectively.

Originality/value

This is a novel approach in performance prediction of electrical discharge machining in terms of new workpiece material (TNZ alloys).

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. 21 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

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