A framework for understanding the emotional impacts in virtual sport training

The efficiency of motor skill acquisition is crucial for sport training. In sport training, virtual reality technology is an implement that could help athletes adjust their movements more precisely in different tasks. However, while training in a simulated environment, an athlete's emotional needs are often overlooked despite the fact that these needs may affect user's physical performance directly and apparently.

In this work, relevant studies in motor skill learning, the formats of feedback and the emotions in virtual training were thoroughly reviewed. Based on the literature reviewed, a framework of a virtual sport training system is proposed. In the proposed framework, elements of the system were illustrated by highlighting the emotional impacts, which were followed by each feedback during training. It appears that virtual sport training is a promising research direction. It is envisaged that the proposed prototype system would be applicable to cater to athlete's overall experiences.     

A comparison of institutional systems affecting software advancement in China and India: The role of outsourcing from Japan and the United States

The emergence of new innovation depends on co-evolution with institutional systems. Innovations will stagnate if they cannot adapt to institutions, as illustrated by the rise and subsequent fall of some Japanese innovations in the 1980s and 1990s. Similarly, conspicuous software advancements in China and India can be attributed to their unique institutional systems. While both countries share certain similarities that enable them to develop advanced software that attracts leading countries, the outsourcing partners of the two countries—China with Japan, and India with the US—are related to disparities in their institutional systems that have an impact on their software development. This paper undertakes a comparative analysis to identify such similarities and disparities. Since innovation is shifting from developers’ sites to a process of diffusion and utilization with broader interactions with institutional systems, this analysis can provide important insight into the development of science and technology in a global context.     

A decision model for the analysis of ergonomic investments

Costs associated with worker injuries can be high and some suggest investments in ergonomic solutions can lower those costs. However, many employers are still unsure if investing in various ergonomic solutions will generate benefits such as increased production and/or reduce workmen's compensation expenses. Estimating current losses and predicting possible gains provide most of the information needed to decide upon ergonomic investment. This paper presents a model employers can use to predict cost savings from ergonomic investments given certain input factors, including current losses, cost of implementation, and success of implementation.     

Soils,microbes, and forest health: A qualitative analysis of social and institutional factors affecting genomic technology adoption

Within the forestry sector in British Columbia, a variety of methods exist for evaluating forest health. While the definition of forest health and the establishment of appropriate metrics for assessment have been debated, there is little disagreement among scientists and forestry practitioners on the importance of soil in assessing and maintaining healthy forests. Advances in genomic science now permit in-depth analysis of soil microbial communities, which can be used to assess various aspects of forest health. The translation of genomic microbial science to future technical developments can make soil microbial analysis practical and economical for forest management practices. Drawing on theories of technology adoption, this paper examines the social and institutional aspects of forestry in British Columbia to develop an understanding of the context in which a novel soil microbial genomic technology would be situated. This study draws on a series of interviews conducted with practitioners and stakeholders in the British Columbia forestry sector. Our findings suggest that while there is considerable interest in genomic microbial technology for forest health assessment, several key challenges will impact the practical application of this technology.     

A framework for modelling setup carryover in the capacitated lot sizing problem

This paper addresses the single-level capacitated lot sizing problem (CLSP) with setup carryover. Specifically, we consider a class of production planning problems in which multiple products can be produced within a time period and significant setup times are incurred when changing from one product to another. Hence, there might be instances where developing a feasible schedule becomes possible only if setups are carried over from one period to another. We develop a modelling framework to formulate the CLSP with setup times and setup carryovers. We then extend the modelling framework to include multiple machines and tool requirements planning. The need for such a model that integrates both planning and lot sizing decisions is motivated by the existence of a similar problem in a paper mill. We apply the modelling framework to solve optimally, an instance of the paper mill's problem.     

Grasping institutional complexity in infrastructure mega-projects through the multi-level governance system: A case study of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge construction

This study analyzes the design and operation of multi-level governance system for the smooth delivery of infrastructure mega-projects with high institutional complexity caused by market transition. From an institutional perspective, this study scrutinizes the structure, elements, and dynamics of the governance system of infrastructure mega-projects and then proposes an integrative framework based on the inductive case study of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge mega-project. Multiple evidences of archives, field studies, and interviews related to the case project are triangulated to further analyze the institutional effects, specifically those with government logics and market structures, on the design and operation of the three-level governance system. Results reveal that the co-evolution between governments and markets in China has shaped the vertical levels of the mega-project governance system and has further affected their evolution and operation across various stages of project development. This study contributes to the rapidly emerging research on complex system governance by proposing a systematic model of three-level mega-project governance to enhance the timely delivery of infrastructure mega-projects within budget.     

A framework for understanding the architecture of collective movements using pairwise analyses of animal movement data

The study of collective or group-level movement patterns can provide insight regarding the socio-ecological interface, the evolution of self-organization and mechanisms of inter-individual information exchange. The suite of drivers influencing coordinated movement trajectories occur across scales, resulting from regular annual, seasonal and circadian stimuli and irregular intra- or interspecific interactions and environmental encounters acting on individuals. Here, we promote a conceptual framework with an associated statistical machinery to quantify the type and degree of synchrony, spanning absence to complete, in pairwise movements. The application of this framework offers a foundation for detailed understanding of collective movement patterns and causes. We emphasize the use of Fourier and wavelet approaches of measuring pairwise movement properties and illustrate them with simulations that contain different types of complexity in individual movement, correlation in movement stochasticity, and transience in movement relatedness. Application of this framework to movements of free-ranging African elephants (Loxodonta africana) provides unique insight on the separate roles of sociality and ecology in the fission–fusion society of these animals, quantitatively characterizing the types of bonding that occur at different levels of social relatedness in a movement context. We conclude with a discussion about expanding this framework to the context of larger (greater than three) groups towards understanding broader population and interspecific collective movement patterns and their mechanisms.     

A conceptual framework for the generation of simulation models from process plans and resource configuration

Although simulation is a popular tool for modelling and analysing modern manufacturing systems, to model shop floor control systems (SFCSs) in simulation requires quite costly efforts, since they are responsible for resolving various decision problems, such as deadlock, part dispatching, and resource conflict. The objective of the paper is to address a conceptual framework necessary to generate a WITNESS simulation model automatically from graph-based process plans and resource configurations. A graph-based process plan is used to capture part operations, their related resource requirements, and their temporal precedence relationships. A WITNESS simulation model is a graphical representation of shop floor resources with the part flow logic embedded within each resource element. To generate a WITNESS model, a process plan is automatically converted into a machine-centred part routeing graph (MCPRG) and then a transport-tending part routeing graph (TTPRG). The MCPRG implies part flows among machines, in which a node represents a machine and an edge represents a part route. The TTPRG implies part flows among machines and material handling devices, in which a node represents either machine or material handler, and an edge represents a part route. From the TTPRG, the part's input and output rules for each resource can be automatically extracted and plugged into the WITNESS model. The approach proposed in the paper enables manufacturers to generate a simulation model rapidly and effectively for performance measurement, such as bottleneck identification, work in progress, throughput times, dynamic resource utilization, and deadlock, of the SFCSs.     

A strategic framework for the design and implementation of remanufacturing operations in reverse logistics

Reverse logistics (RL) is a systematic process that manages the flow of products/parts from the point of consumption back to the point of manufacturing for possible recycling, remanufacturing, or disposal. Although the concept of RL is well-known in logistics and supply chain management, the available holistic literature and theory of RL are scarce. This paper surveys current RL literature and identifies the present state of theory in RL by formulating the propositions for strategic factors. The approach used is grounded theory development. The strategic factors are in turn delineated and evaluated in terms of specific sub-factors associated with each factor by the use of interview protocol and within the context of an in-depth analysis of two companies in different industries that are engaged in remanufacturing/recycling operations within RL systems. The analysis of these case studies, using the grounded theory approach, resulted in insights regarding their RL practices. Based on these insights and strategic factors and sub-factors, a framework for effective design and implementation of remanufacturing/recycling operations in RL is provided. This framework allows for the determination of the viability of returned products/parts in the RL system. The findings outline how our RL theory is enhanced and how our understanding of RL practices with respect to remanufacturing/recycling operations is improved. In conclusion, managerial implications and future research directions are presented.     

A methodological framework for the triple bottom line accounting and management of industry enterprises

Since the 1970s the purpose of the environmental protection campaign has been to try to halt the gradual deterioration of our natural habitat. Reactive and pro-active strategies were developed to incorporate environmental and social concerns into economic development beyond regulatory compliance. In this research, we present a methodology to support the new era of sustainable development for all the three areas, which implements the triple bottom line (TBL) accounting mechanism by using quantitative models. A broad TBL framework is developed to track and categorize sustainability information at the corporate level through a sustainability index system. A ‘sustainability optimization’ model incorporates environmental and social costs and values into economic activities to support the decisions of the management. This methodology can help decision makers to make ‘green’ plans, and provide strategic directions for future development.     

评价网络理论在电力公司反应堆建设决策中的应用

电力公司反应堆建设中的一个决策问题,是如何依据过去经验和试验结果来选取最优的建设方案。评价网络理论（valuation networks）是贝叶斯决策问题表示和求解的新方法。以某电力公司为例,应用评价网络理论,以反应堆建设的决策问题进行分析,给出了决策问题的具体表示和求解的详细过程。     

A Multi-Objective Decision-Making Approach for the Optimal Location of Electric Vehicle Charging Facilities

Electric vehicles (EVs) are recognized as one of the most promising technologies worldwide to address the fossil fuel energy resource crisis and environmental pollution. As the initial work of EV charging station (EVCS) construction, site selection plays a vital role in its whole life cycle. In this paper, a multi-objective optimization model for the location layout of EVCSs is established when considering various factors such as user demand, investment cost, soil locations, the emergency charging mileage limit, the actual road condition and service network reliability. The model takes the minimum investment cost and the minimum user charging cost as the dual objectives. On the basis of satisfying the user’s charging demand and the capacity constraints of EVCSs, the redundant design of the charging pile and station is considered to ensure the reliability of the service network. In the allocation of user charging demand, in this paper, two factors of time and distance are considered, and the equal time load distance method is adopted to distribute traffic flow under the limitation of emergency charging mileage. When calculating the average travel speed of a road section, an accounting method based on the land price level is proposed considering the congestion. Then, the linear weighting method is applied to normalizing the multi-objective function, and the genetic algorithm is employed to solve the problem. Finally, a computational experiment is presented to demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed approach. The results show that the proposed approach is a useful, practical, and effective way to find the optimal location of EVCSs.     

Individual factors affecting the risk of death for rear-seated passengers in road crashes

We studied the effect of age, gender, use of restraint systems and seat position on the risk of death for rear-seated passengers of cars involved in road crashes. The data source was the Spanish register of traffic crashes with victims compiled by the Government's General Traffic Directorate. Data for crashes recorded from 1993 to 2002, inclusive, were studied. We used a matched cohort design to analyze all 5260 rear-seated passengers in vehicles occupied by two or three rear-seated passengers for accidents in which at least one of these passengers was killed. Conditional Poisson regression with death as the dependent variable was used. An increased risk of death was observed for females and children aged <3 years. For passengers aged 25 years and older, the risk increased with age. The use of restraint systems and central and right-side seats was associated with a lower risk. These results should be considered in research focused on passenger fragility and strategies to prevent injury and death.     

影响超精密环抛相对磨削量因素的计算模拟

利用Preston方程,考虑了超精密环抛中的诸因素,如工件和磨盘转速比、偏心距以及压强,计算模拟了它们对磨削效果的影响。模拟表明,当转速比越接近1或偏心距越大时,磨削越均匀;均匀分布的压强越大,磨削越不均匀。在这三个影响因素中,转速比的作用最为显著。实现均匀磨削所需的压强应为二次型分布。这些为超精密环抛提供了指导,有助于实现主动控制。     

A framework for implementation of RVE‐based multiscale models in computational homogenization using isogeometric analysis

This study presents an isogeometric framework for incorporating representative volume element–based multiscale models into computational homogenization. First‐order finite deformation homogenization theory is derived within the framework of the method of multiscale virtual power, and Lagrange multipliers are used to illustrate the effects of considering different kinematical constraints. Using a Lagrange multiplier approach in the numerical implementation of the discrete system naturally leads to a consolidated treatment of the commonly employed representative volume element boundary conditions. Implementation of finite deformation computational strain‐driven, stress‐driven, and mixed homogenization is detailed in the context of isogeometric analysis (IGA), and performance is compared to standard finite element analysis. As finite deformations are considered, a numerical multiscale stability analysis procedure is also detailed for use with IGA. Unique implementation aspects that arise when computational homogenization is performed using IGA are discussed, and the developed framework is applied to a complex curved microstructure representing an architectured material.     

光纤超声传感系统3×3耦合器输出信号的影响因素研究

光纤超声传感单位通常使用3×3耦合器作为核心干涉部件,其输出信号往往变化范围大、稳定性差,为了分析3×3耦合器输出信号产生不同现象的原因,开展了3×3耦合器输出信号的影响因素研究。应用干涉理论,分析了声信号和环境噪声对3×3耦合器输出信号稳定性的影响。数值计算结果与实验结果表明:声信号与环境噪声共同调制了干涉仪的相位,环境噪声使得3×3耦合器输出信号稳定性差;通过增大声信号幅值,使其引起的干涉仪相位幅值大于πrad,此时3×3耦合器输出信号的稳定性增强。     

Micromechanics models for the elastic constants and failure strengths of plain weave composites

In this paper, two models are presented for plain weave composites. One is finite element analysis (FEA) model for elastic constants, namely, sinusoidal yarn model. Another is analytical model for failure strengths, namely, sinusoidal beam model. The FEA model is generated by interfacing an in-house computer code with FEA software strand6, and the analytical model is developed using the theory of elasticity. Numerical studies are carried out using the present models to investigate the effects of some major geometrical parameters on the properties of plain weave composites. It is concluded that the failure strengths are closely related to the fiber volume fraction of a yarn, and the mechanical properties are closely related to the overall fiber volume fraction of the composites. An experimental testing program is conducted for T300/934 plain weave composites to validate the developed models. A good agreement exists between the predicted and measured results.     

Designing the framework of technological entrepreneurship ecosystem: A grounded theory approach in the context of Iran

The ecosystem approach, as a comprehensive way of understanding multi-aspect environments, has recently gained so much attention in entrepreneurship and innovation studies. The application of this approach has led to the introduction of the currently available ecosystem frameworks that are dealing with some issues such as infirm structure and heterogeneity of components. In this research, by adopting the grounded theory approach in the context of Iran, we defined a novel and comprehensive framework for the technological entrepreneurship ecosystem (TEE). Twenty-six in-depth and semi-structured interviews have been conducted and analysed through a modified grounded theory procedure. Seventy-four secondary sources were added to the study to expand the breadth of our analysis and reach a stronger saturation. The concluded framework comprised of four interconnected layers representing environmental conditions, entity domains, functional realms, and tech-entrepreneurial agents. In addition, we identified some general principles and rules as important underlying aspects of this framework. The inferred components and structure of this novel framework not only could enable us to design the relations between the ecosystem components, but also prompt and support further research on each dimension of the ecosystem.     

A framework for the role of warehousing in Reverse Logistics

Reverse Logistics (RL) is the process of returning products from their consumer destination to capture their value or proper disposal. This paper considers and analyses the current state of literature in warehousing. Warehousing, which is an operational factor in RL, has been analysed and evaluated in terms of the specific subfactors associated with it. The research methodology used was exploratory case study research. The qualitative data were collected by use of two in-depth case studies chosen from two different industries. The analysis of the case studies resulted in the development of warehousing subfactors, propositions and insights regarding RL operations. Based on these, a framework for effective design and implementation of RL operations is provided. This framework determines the appropriate warehousing subfactors and how the return process of products/parts works. In conclusion, the managerial implications and future research directions are provided.     

Examining the trajectory of a standard for patent classification: An institutional account of a technical cooperation between EPO and USPTO

This paper explores the dynamics of standardization practices associated with patent classification and discusses the technical, legal and policy implications of standard-setting for patent classification. Therefore, this paper aims to fill a gap in the literature on knowledge management, based on an analysis of the development and implementation of Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC). This paper examines the processes of developing a standard for classifying patent applications from the perspective of Actor-Network Theory (ANT). Our findings reveal that standardization in the context of patent classification is primarily shaped by the interaction involving patent offices that belong to the IP5 group. Furthermore, we found evidence that the CPC standard can be regarded as a response to the demands posed by innovative firms requiring accurate patent classification to provide secure protection for their new technologies.