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Economic load dispatch (ELD) is one of the crucial optimization problems in power system planning and operation. The ELD problem with valve point loading (VPL) and multi-fuel options (MFO) is defined as a non-smooth and non-convex optimization problem with equality and inequality constraints, which obliges an efficient heuristic strategy to be addressed. The purpose of this study is to present a new and powerful heuristic optimization technique (HOT) named as squirrel search algorithm (SSA) to solve non-convex ELD problems of large-scale power plants.

The suggested SSA approach is aimed to minimize the total fuel cost consumption of power plant considering their generation values as decision variables while satisfying the problem constraints. It confers a solution to the ELD issue by anchoring with foraging behavior of squirrels based on the dynamic jumping and gliding strategies. Furthermore, a heuristic approach and selection rules are used in SSA to handle the constraints appropriately.

Empirical results authenticate the superior performance of SSA technique by validating on four different large-scale systems. Comparing SSA with other HOTs, numerical results depict its proficiencies with high-qualitative solution and by its excellent computational efficiency to solve the ELD problems with non-smooth fuel cost function addressing the VPL and MFO. Moreover, the non-parametric tests prove the robustness and efficacy of the suggested SSA and demonstrate that it can be used as a competent optimizer for solving the real-world large-scale non-convex ELD problems.

This study has compared various HOTs to determine optimal generation scheduling for large-scale ELD problems. Consequently, its comparative analysis will be beneficial to power engineers for accurate generation planning.

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this manuscript is the first research work of using SSA approach for solving ELD problems. Consequently, the solution to this problem configures the key contribution of this paper.

This study aims to provide a secured data aggregation with reduced energy consumption in WSN. Data aggregation is the process of reducing communication overhead in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Presently, securing data aggregation is an important research issue in WSNs due to two facts: sensor nodes deployed in the sensitive and open environment are easily targeted by adversaries, and the leakage of aggregated data causes damage in the networks, and these data cannot be retrieved in a short span of time. Most of the traditional cryptographic algorithms provide security for data aggregation, but they do not reduce energy consumption.

Nowadays, the homomorphic cryptosystem is used widely to provide security with low energy consumption, as the aggregation is performed on the ciphertext without decryption at the cluster head. In the present paper, the Paillier additive homomorphic cryptosystem and Boneh et al.’s aggregate signature method are used to encrypt and to verify aggregate data at the base station.

The combination of the two algorithms reduces computation time and energy consumption when compared with the state-of-the-art techniques.

The secured data aggregation is useful in health-related applications, military applications, etc.

The new combination of encryption and signature methods provides confidentiality and integrity. In addition, it consumes less computation time and energy consumption than existing methods.

This study aimed to developed a defect detection system for a segment-type display module panel.

The system included a data acquisition card, a video camera, a computer and a display module on a testing table. The video camera captured the display pattern of the display module and transferred it to the computer through the data acquisition card. The dynamic multi-thresholding method and analysis as well as back propagation neural network classification was used to classify the detected defects.

The threshold values for the brightness at different positions in the display module image were obtained using the neural network and then stored in the look-up table, using two to six matrixes.

The recognition speed was faster and the system was more flexible in comparison to the previous system. The proposed method, using unsophisticated and economical equipment, was also verified as providing highly accurate results with a low error rate.

The aim of this paper is to apply the SERVQUAL model to evaluate the quality perceived by customers in the context of family hotel management in Portugal. More specifically, to assess the influence of interpersonal relationships (service providers and customers) in family business services in the wine tourism segment (i.e. wine hotel and spa). In this way, it aims to provide data that can support this family hotel to reinforce the quality of the services provided to guests and therefore their satisfaction and loyalty.

The statistical techniques, using Microsoft Excel 2016^® and SPSS Statistics 25.0^®, were multivariate for the analysis and validation of the results. In this analysis it can be seen that except the empathy dimension, in which the evaluation of perceived quality is positive, i.e. customer perceptions were higher than expectations, the remaining dimensions of the SERVQUAL model were negative. The safety dimension ranked second, followed by service delivery dimensions, problem solving and tangibility.

The results show that the empathy dimension positively influences the evaluation of the perceived quality and thus also the satisfaction and loyalty of guests to the family hotel in the wine tourism segment. So, it is recommended that the hotel management of this family hotel reinforces service quality by investing in the improvement of physical facilities, problem-solving capacity, and service delivery, to obtain higher levels of perceived quality service and hence customer satisfaction and loyalty and, simultaneously, increase its performance and organizational sustainability.

In addition to the direct contributions to the hotel management of this family business hotel, this study contributes to the development of the marketing scientific area, tourism and hospitality industry.

Several studies argue that the competitive advantage of the hotel business is based on the creation of value and of experiences for the customer, but in the context of family hotels, the creation of value for the customer is even more relevant, given the characteristics of this type of business, such as its small size and the reduced number of employees. Family hotels should invest in tools and techniques that allow them to create value for the customer through the quality of service offered to their guests.

This paper aimed to evaluate perceived quality in the context of family hotel management in Portugal. In particular, the contribution of interpersonal relationships (between service providers and guests), in hotel services in the wine tourism segment in Portugal. According to the analysis of the results of the exploratory study to Hotel context, it was concluded that there are differences between the perceptions and expectations of hotel guests.

Cross-layer approach in media access control (MAC) layer will address interference and jamming problems. Hybrid distributed MAC can be used for simultaneous voice, data transmissions in wireless sensor network (WSN) and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Choosing the correct objective function in Nash equilibrium for game theory will address fairness index and resource allocation to the nodes. Game theory optimization for distributed may increase the network performance. The purpose of this study is to survey the various operations that can be carried out using distributive and adaptive MAC protocol. Hill climbing distributed MAC does not need a central coordination system and location-based transmission with neighbor awareness reduces transmission power.

Distributed MAC in wireless networks is used to address the challenges like network lifetime, reduced energy consumption and for improving delay performance. In this paper, a survey is made on various cooperative communications in MAC protocols, optimization techniques used to improve MAC performance in various applications and mathematical approaches involved in game theory optimization for MAC protocol.

Spatial reuse of channel improved by 3%–29%, and multichannel improves throughput by 8% using distributed MAC protocol. Nash equilibrium is found to perform well, which focuses on energy utility in the network by individual players. Fuzzy logic improves channel selection by 17% and secondary users’ involvement by 8%. Cross-layer approach in MAC layer will address interference and jamming problems. Hybrid distributed MAC can be used for simultaneous voice, data transmissions in WSN and IoT applications. Cross-layer and cooperative communication give energy savings of 27% and reduces hop distance by 4.7%. Choosing the correct objective function in Nash equilibrium for game theory will address fairness index and resource allocation to the nodes.

Other optimization techniques can be applied for WSN to analyze the performance.

Game theory optimization for distributed may increase the network performance. Optimal cuckoo search improves throughput by 90% and reduces delay by 91%. Stochastic approaches detect 80% attacks even in 90% malicious nodes.

Channel allocations in centralized or static manner must be based on traffic demands whether dynamic traffic or fluctuated traffic. Usage of multimedia devices also increased which in turn increased the demand for high throughput. Cochannel interference keep on changing or mitigations occur which can be handled by proper resource allocations. Network survival is by efficient usage of valid patis in the network by avoiding transmission failures and time slots’ effective usage.

Literature survey is carried out to find the methods which give better performance.

Digital learning systems are crucial for education and data collected can analyse students learning performances to improve support. The purpose of this study is to design and build an asynchronous hardware and software system that can store data on a local device until able to share. It was developed for staff and students at university who are using the limited internet access in areas such as remote Northern Territory. This system can asynchronously link the users’ devices and the central server at the university using unstable internet.

A Learning Box has been build based on minicomputer and a web learning management system (LMS). This study presents different options to create such a system and discusses various approaches for data syncing. The structure of the final setup is a Moodle (Modular Object Oriented Developmental Learning Environment) LMS on a Raspberry Pi which provides a Wi-Fi hotspot. The authors worked with lecturers from X University who work in remote Northern Territory regions to test this and provide feedback. This study also considered suitable data collection and techniques that can be used to analyse the available data to support learning analysis by the staff. This research focuses on building an asynchronous hardware and software system that can store data on a local device until able to share. It was developed for staff and students at university who are using the limited internet access in areas such as remote Northern Territory. This system can asynchronously link the users’ devices and the central server at the university using unstable internet. Digital learning systems are crucial for education, and data collected can analyse students learning performances to improve support.

The resultant system has been tested in various scenarios to ensure it is robust when students’ submissions are collected. Furthermore, issues around student familiarity and ability to use online systems have been considered due to early feedback.

Monitoring asynchronous collaborative learning systems through analytics can assist students learning in their own time. Learning Hubs can be easily set up and maintained using micro-computers now easily available. A phone interface is sufficient for learning when video and audio submissions are supported in the LMS.

This study shows digital learning can be implemented in an offline environment by using a Raspberry Pi as LMS server. Offline collaborative learning in remote communities can be achieved by applying asynchronized data syncing techniques. Also asynchronized data syncing can be reliably achieved by using change logs and incremental syncing technique.

Focus on audio and video submission allows engagement in higher education by students with lower literacy but higher practice skills. Curriculum that clearly supports the level of learning required for a job needs to be developed, and the assumption that literacy is part of the skilled job in the workplace needs to be removed.

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first remote asynchronous collaborative LMS environment that has been implemented. This provides the hardware and software for opportunities to share learning remotely. Material to support low literacy students is also included.

The 2008‐2009 global crisis was not only a financial calamity, but also a major ethical disaster. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the dharmic transgressions that took place in connection with the crisis using the philosophy of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, a world spiritual leader and teacher.

The paper initially gives a brief overview of the unfolding crisis, its devastation of the world economy and a review of related literature. The paper then outlines the concept of dharma which, as expounded by Bhagavan Baba, must ultimately result in social welfare. The paper goes on to analyze the factors that created, triggered and fuelled the crisis from this perspective. The paper also outlines solutions based on Baba's philosophy to prevent such a crisis from occurring in the future.

The fundamental finding of the paper is that the global financial crisis was triggered and fuelled by factors which were transgressions of dharma. Thus, the solution to prevent such a crisis is adherence to dharma.

The paper gives several recommendations to investors, institutions and regulators to act in a way to prevent such crises in the future.

If the principles of dharma are adhered to, they will not only prevent occurrence of financial crises, but will also make the financial system work for the welfare of the entire society.

The paper shows the relevance of the teachings of Bhagavan Baba which are quintessentially the philosophy of “Sanathana Dharma” (eternal dharma) in solving current economic problems and contributing to social welfare.

The paper aims to discuss the management of financial market scandals using two different approaches – regulatory and values‐based.

The paper discusses the motivations behind financial scandals to occur and then explains in detail both the approaches. The paper first presents the elements of the regulatory approach. Using the teachings of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the values‐based approach are delineated. The paper also compares the two approaches and identifies their respective utilities.

While both the regulatory and values based approaches have their own utilities; stressing the values‐based approach helps with preventing financial scandals on a sustainable basis.

The practical implication is that it is necessary to stress the evocation of human values among investors and capital market intermediaries so that scandals can be avoided.

The social implication of the paper is that values evocation is very important to tackle the behavioural motivations behind financial scandals. Unless values are evoked, the root causes of financial scandals will not be removed. In such cases, regulation will have only a limited effect.

The paper uses the philosophy and teachings of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba to develop value guidelines to prevent financial scandals.

The purpose of this paper is to show the limitations and inadequacies of the “Homo Economicus” model of human behaviour in terms of promoting human development and to outline directions for economics to promote “true human development”.

The paper first discusses the concept of “Homo Economicus” and the criticisms of this model. It then explains the ladder of human development as propounded by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The paper compares the “Homo Economicus” model with this ladder of human development. The economic philosophy of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is then explained to show the proper way ahead. Finally the paper gives future directions for economics to aid in “true human development”.

The paper finds that the “Homo Economicus” model of human behaviour is inadequate and needs to be substituted with a broader framework. The economic philosophy of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba gives clear directions to develop this broader framework.

The paper has practical implications in terms of understanding human development in the proper perspective and the steps that must be taken to move in this direction.

The paper compares the “Homo Economicus” model with the ladder of human development as outlined by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The paper is also original because it gives future directions based on the economic philosophy of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

Need for preventive health care: To comprehend the contribution of preventive health care in improving the health quotient. Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital (SSSSH) and its initiative is an apt example of the wonder which preventive care can bring in the context of rural health. Community participation: The case can be instrumental in showing the pathway to encourage community involvement in mainstream health by promoting the holistic model of SSSSH that understands mothers and children's health profile and needs, especially in the unreached rural segments of an emerging economy like India. Importance of healthy childhood: World Health Organization (WHO) promotes the school health programme to prevent health risks among children by inculcating healthy behaviours during childhood. The successful SSSSH model proves that it is implementable by integrating comprehensive health education modules in the existing institutions for medical care.

The challenge of a healthy childhood is inadequate availability and accessibility of quality care. Non-awareness of the parents is also a significant reason for the children who miss the benefit of a happy childhood. While much is planned by the Government and some part of it being executed, this case highlights the effectiveness of the maternal and child health programme executed by the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital (SSSSH). This initiative fulfills the dire need of ensuring the preventive healthcare component leading to safe motherhood and safe birth of healthy children. Further, the case is also the culmination of pin-pointed innovative awareness activities such as school health screening and the Divine Mother and Child Health Program (DMCHP). It opens up the discussion on the current model of health care followed by SSSSH, Raipur, and its impact in the local areas to decide on its expansion across the country for nationwide implementation.

Bachelors in Business Administration, MBA, Executive MBA, Post Graduate Diploma in Healthcare Management

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CSS 2: Built Environment.