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Article
Publication date: 1 December 1996

A. Erman Tekkaya and Alper Güneri

Studies the effect of parameters controlling the biological growth method by applying it to the classical optimization problem of a plate with a central hole under biaxial stress…

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Abstract

Studies the effect of parameters controlling the biological growth method by applying it to the classical optimization problem of a plate with a central hole under biaxial stress state. It has been found that the optimization character of the method depends strongly on the so‐called reference stress. Depending on the magnitude of this parameter either a local or global optimum is approached. A global optimum corresponds to the minimum possible v. Mises stress along the hole boundary (and hence in the plate), whereas a local optimum presents the modified shape of the hole yielding an uniform stress distribution whose magnitude is larger than the minimum possible value and which is equal to the specified reference stress. The magnification factor applied to the iterative displacement results influences the optimization speed. Too large factors lead to divergence of the solution. Furthermore, it has been found that the dimension of the optimization domain has a critical effect on the optimization result.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 13 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 February 2014

Guoli Ji, Yong Zeng, Zijiang Yang, Congting Ye and Jingci Yao

The time complexity of most multiple sequence alignment algorithm is O(N2) or O(N3) (N is the number of sequences). In addition, with the development of biotechnology, the amount…

Abstract

Purpose

The time complexity of most multiple sequence alignment algorithm is O(N2) or O(N3) (N is the number of sequences). In addition, with the development of biotechnology, the amount of biological sequences grows significantly. The traditional methods have some difficulties in handling large-scale sequence. The proposed Lemk_MSA method aims to reduce the time complexity, especially for large-scale sequences. At the same time, it can keep similar accuracy level compared to the traditional methods.

Design/methodology/approach

LemK_MSA converts multiple sequence alignment into corresponding 10D vector alignment by ten types of copy modes based on Lempel-Ziv. Then, it uses k-means algorithm and NJ algorithm to divide the sequences into several groups and calculate guide tree of each group. A complete guide tree for multiple sequence alignment could be constructed by merging guide tree of every group. Moreover, for large-scale multiple sequence, Lemk_MSA proposes a GPU-based parallel way for distance matrix calculation.

Findings

Under this approach, the time efficiency to process multiple sequence alignment can be improved. The high-throughput mouse antibody sequences are used to validate the proposed method. Compared to ClustalW, MAFFT and Mbed, LemK_MSA is more than ten times efficient while ensuring the alignment accuracy at the same time.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a novel method with sequence vectorization for multiple sequence alignment based on Lempel-Ziv. A GPU-based parallel method has been designed for large-scale distance matrix calculation. It provides a new way for multiple sequence alignment research.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 31 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 October 2003

Stjepan Mišetić, Željko Pavlin, Milorad Mrakovčić and Vedran Jurić

Determining minimum water flows that will continuously run through a natural channel downstream of a water intake (Q0) is a multidisciplinary problem. It is, however, not…

Abstract

Determining minimum water flows that will continuously run through a natural channel downstream of a water intake (Q0) is a multidisciplinary problem. It is, however, not approached in a multidisciplinary way in most countries. This paper offers an overview of the main methods and proposes a practical and environmentally more acceptable way of determining the retained flow, namely the environmentally acceptable flow (EAF). It is proposed that until the conditions are created for use of more complex methods and/or biological response techniques, the EAF be defined by determining whether the retained flow is sufficient for sustaining and developing indigenous wildlife in the streams by ensuring of the essential living conditions for the bioindicator species. The proposed bioindicators are characteristic fish populations of a specific type of stream and stream reaches. Being the final link in the ecological food chain, fish species are reliable indicators of bioecological balance in a stream.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 14 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 May 2023

Philip Birch, Erin Kruger, Glenn Porter, Lewis A. Bizo and Michael Kennedy

Criminology both as a field of study and as a practice draws on a broad range of disciplines from the social, behavioural, human, natural and medical sciences. However, over…

Abstract

Purpose

Criminology both as a field of study and as a practice draws on a broad range of disciplines from the social, behavioural, human, natural and medical sciences. However, over recent times, the natural and medical sciences have been dismissed, overlooked and even ridiculed, largely since the rise of critical criminology and related contemporary conflict and social harm approaches from the 1960s onwards. This has led to a chasm emerging between the study of criminology and the practice of criminology such as within a policing context. This paper aims to provide a review of an emerging forensic biological method, that of neuroscience, within a criminological context, to illustrate the importance of criminology embracing and reawakening its natural and medical science roots.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on a conceptual design to realign criminology with the full range of disciplines used to inform its theory and application.

Findings

Through illustrating the role of forensic neuroscience, the paper reawakens the scientific method and inquiry of criminology reflecting the importance of the discipline being, and remaining, multi- and trans-disciplinary in nature. The paper, while reflecting on the limitations of scientific method and inquiry, outlines the strengths this approach to criminology engenders, promoting and delivering a scientific-based research agenda that aims to support industry partners in the prevention, disruption and reduction of crime, disorder and threats to public security.

Practical implications

Firstly, it is important for criminology as a field of study to (re)engage with its scientific method and inquiry. Secondly, criminology, by engaging in robust scientific method and inquiry, has a significant contribution to make to professional practice and the work of industry professionals. Thirdly, while there are limitations to such scientific method and inquiry, it should not lead to this component of criminology being discarded. Fourthly, there is a need for contemporary research in the area of scientific method and inquiry and its application to criminological contexts, including that of police practice. Finally, by engaging in scientific method and inquiry that is evidence based, a chasm between the field of study and the practice associated with criminology can be addressed.

Originality/value

This paper addresses the gap between criminology as a field of study and as a practice by reengaging with scientific method and inquiry, illustrating the need and value of criminology being and remaining multi- and trans-disciplinary, ensuring professions underpinned by criminology are supported in their practice.

Details

Journal of Criminological Research, Policy and Practice, vol. 9 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-3841

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 May 2024

Georgy Sunny and T. Palani Rajan

The purpose of the project is to explore the biosoftening of raw areca nut fibers using two different biological retting methods and assess their impact on fiber properties for…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the project is to explore the biosoftening of raw areca nut fibers using two different biological retting methods and assess their impact on fiber properties for improved spinning. The study aims to contribute to the fashion industry’s shift toward sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The project involves collecting raw brown areca shells, subjecting them to two retting methods (stagnant water retting and changing water daily retting) and then extracting and drying the fibers. Various physical and chemical properties of the fibers are measured to evaluate their suitability for spinning.

Findings

The stagnant water retting method, especially the fibers obtained on the second day, showed improved properties in terms of fiber strength, elongation, fineness and cellulose content, making them suitable for spinning applications. The method also resulted in better moisture regain.

Research limitations/implications

The study focused on two retting methods and a limited timeframe. Further research could explore additional techniques and durations. The labor-intensive nature of the daily changing water retting method may have implications for scalability.

Practical implications

The project demonstrates a cost-effective and sustainable method for converting agricultural waste (areca nut husks) into valuable fibers suitable for various end users.

Social implications

The research supports the fashion industry’s sustainability efforts by promoting the use of eco-friendly natural fibers, potentially benefiting rural farming communities.

Originality/value

The project highlights the innovative use of areca nut fibers and their potential to contribute to sustainable fashion. The stagnant water retting method is presented as a reliable and effective approach for improving fiber properties. Additionally, all fiber testing was exclusively conducted at the South India Textile Research Association (SITRA), with sponsorship from the industry and support from the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 36 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 August 2009

Yanyan Fu, Xianguo Hu, Yufu Xu, Xifeng Zhu and Shaotong Jiang

When carrying out bioremediation of water polluted by biomass‐oil, the stains which can degrade the biomass‐oil efficiently should first be found. The purpose of this paper is to…

435

Abstract

Purpose

When carrying out bioremediation of water polluted by biomass‐oil, the stains which can degrade the biomass‐oil efficiently should first be found. The purpose of this paper is to describe how adopted acclimation through the isolated strains degraded efficiently, and got reaction kinetics property.

Design/methodology/approach

During the acclimation, the biodegradation process of biomass‐oil is accorded approximately with the first‐order reaction by the way of Sturm method which is described by measuring CO2 volume from the microbes' production.

Findings

One kind of microbe, Aspergillus versicolor, separated from the activated sludge in the aeration tanks of paper‐mill, is found to have the advantage of biodegradation in case of biomass‐oil from rice straw by rapid thermal‐liquidizing process. The biodegradation ability could be improved in aqueous culture under neutral and acidic conditions. The optimal temperature for biodegradation of biomass‐oil is 40°C. The optimal inocula content for biodegradation of biomass‐oil was 16 vol%.

Research limitations/implications

The variation of lubricity of biomass‐oil with biodegradation needs more attention.

Practical implications

A basic research on the growth of a strain is shown, which is helpful for the biological treatment of biomass‐oil pollution.

Originality/value

One kind of fungi, Aspergillus versicolor, can be used for the biodegradation of biomass‐oil. The effects of various conditions or parameters on biodegradation of biomass‐oil are discovered in aqueous culture conditions in the case of Aspergillus versicolor.

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. 61 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 September 2023

Jiaxin Li, Zhiyuan Zhu, Zhiwei Li, Yonggang Zhao, Yun Lei, Xuping Su, Changjun Wu and Haoping Peng

Gallic acid is a substance that is widely found in nature. Initially, it was only used as a corrosion inhibitor to retard the rate of corrosion of metals. In recent years, with…

Abstract

Purpose

Gallic acid is a substance that is widely found in nature. Initially, it was only used as a corrosion inhibitor to retard the rate of corrosion of metals. In recent years, with intensive research by scholars, the modification of coatings containing gallic acid has become a hot topic in the field of metal protection. This study aims to summarize the various preparation methods of gallic acid and its research progress in corrosion inhibitors and coatings, as well as related studies using quantum chemical methods to assess the predicted corrosion inhibition effects and to systematically describe the prospects and current status of gallic acid applications in the field of metal corrosion inhibition and protection.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the various methods of preparation of gallic acid in industry are understood. Second, the corrosion inhibition principles and research progress of gallic acid as a metal corrosion inhibitor are presented. Then, the corrosion inhibition principles and research progress of gallic acid involved in the synthesis and modification of various rust conversion coatings, nano-coatings and organic resin coatings are described. After that, studies related to the evaluation and prediction of gallic acid corrosion inhibition on metals by quantum chemical methods are presented. Finally, new research ideas on gallic acid in the field of corrosion inhibition and protection of metals are summarized.

Findings

Gallic acid can be used as a corrosion inhibitor or coating in metal protection.

Research limitations/implications

There is a lack of research on the synergistic improvement of gallic acid and other substances.

Practical implications

The specific application of gallic acid in the field of metal protection was summarized, and the future research focus was put forward.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper systematically expounds on the research progress of gallic acid in the field of metal protection for the first time and provides new ideas and directions for future research.

Details

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, vol. 70 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0003-5599

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 2005

Marian Głażewski and Andrzej Eymontt

Proposes to discuss the implementation of biological methods of the reinforcement and protection of slopes and dissemination to designers and builders of earthen structures.

Abstract

Purpose

Proposes to discuss the implementation of biological methods of the reinforcement and protection of slopes and dissemination to designers and builders of earthen structures.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology of the process developed consists of field experiments including plant selection, preparation of the slope, hydroseeding mass composition, structure and rheological properties, as well as observation of the growing process and proper management of the layer covering. Laboratory tests and field experiments were conducted.

Findings

The research results confirm that covering slopes with a hydroseeding layer contributes to a reduction of the erosion process. The most important effect of the protection process is the creation of favorable conditions for seedlings growing in the third leaf phase with the effect of compact green cover.

Practical implications

The research results could be an important basis for the development of legislation acts related to road building, including proper slope management, together with seeding, underseeding and prototechnical operations that should be done during the first two years for both shaded and sunny slopes. The next step should be the training of designers and builders, and implementation of the technology.

Originality/value

This technology is new in Poland. The authors have realized several hundred slopes with this technology. However, for further improvement of slopes, protection was a necessary realization of the research discussed in the paper.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 16 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 January 2015

Xingya Wang and Guangchang Pang

This paper aims to provide a detailed review of weak interaction biosensors and several common biosensor methods for magnifying signals, as well as judiciously guide readers…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a detailed review of weak interaction biosensors and several common biosensor methods for magnifying signals, as well as judiciously guide readers through selecting an appropriate detecting system and signal amplification method according to their research and application purpose.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper classifies the weak interactions between biomolecules, summarizes the common signal amplification methods used in biosensor design and compares the performance of different kinds of biosensors. It highlights a potential electrochemical signal amplification method: the G protein signaling cascade amplification system.

Findings

Developed biosensors which, based on various principles, have their own strengths and weaknesses have met the basic detection requirements for weak interaction between biomolecules: the selectivity, sensitivity and detection limit of biosensors have been consistently improving with the use of new signal amplification methods. However, most of the weak interaction biosensors stop at the research stage; there are only a minority realization of final commercial application.

Originality/value

This paper evaluates the status of research and application of weak interaction biosensors systematically. The G protein signaling cascade amplification system proposal offers a new avenue for the research and development of electrochemical biosensors.

Article
Publication date: 18 May 2020

Haojie Zhang, Yudong Zhang and Tiantian Yang

As wheeled mobile robots find increasing use in outdoor applications, it becomes more important to reduce energy consumption to perform more missions efficiently with limit energy…

Abstract

Purpose

As wheeled mobile robots find increasing use in outdoor applications, it becomes more important to reduce energy consumption to perform more missions efficiently with limit energy supply. The purpose of this paper is to survey the current state-of-the-art on energy-efficient motion planning (EEMP) for wheeled mobile robots.

Design/methodology/approach

The use of wheeled mobile robots has been increased to replace humans in performing risky missions in outdoor applications, and the requirement of motion planning with efficient energy consumption is necessary. This study analyses a lot of motion planning technologies in terms of energy efficiency for wheeled mobile robots from 2000 to present. The dynamic constraints play a key role in EEMP problem, which derive the power model related to energy consumption. The surveyed approaches differ in the used steering mechanisms for wheeled mobile robots, in assumptions on the structure of the environment and in computational requirements. The comparison among different EEMP methods is proposed in optimal, computation time and completeness.

Findings

According to lots of literature in EEMP problem, the research results can be roughly divided into online real-time optimization and offline optimization. The energy consumption is considered during online real-time optimization, which is computationally expensive and time-consuming. The energy consumption model is used to evaluate the candidate motions offline and to obtain the optimal energy consumption motion. Sometimes, this optimization method may cause local minimal problem and even fail to track. Therefore, integrating the energy consumption model into the online motion planning will be the research trend of EEMP problem, and more comprehensive approach to EEMP problem is presented.

Research limitations/implications

EEMP is closely related to robot’s dynamic constraints. This paper mainly surveyed in EEMP problem for differential steered, Ackermann-steered, skid-steered and omni-directional steered robots. Other steering mechanisms of wheeled mobile robots are not discussed in this study.

Practical implications

The survey of performance of various EEMP serves as a reference for robots with different steering mechanisms using in special scenarios.

Originality/value

This paper analyses a lot of motion planning technologies in terms of energy efficiency for wheeled mobile robots from 2000 to present.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 47 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 22000