Giovanni Aiello, Salvatore Alfonzetti, Santi Agatino Rizzo and Nunzio Salerno
The optimization of the cross section of an axisymmetric induction heating device is performed by means of genetic algorithms (GAs).
Abstract
Purpose
The optimization of the cross section of an axisymmetric induction heating device is performed by means of genetic algorithms (GAs).
Design/methodology/approach
The hybrid finite element method–Dirichlet boundary condition iteration method is used to deal with the unbounded nature of the field. The formulation of the electromagnetic problems takes into account skin and proximity effects in the source currents.
Findings
The convergence of GAs towards the optimum is very fast, since less than a thousand analyses have been necessary.
Originality/value
A special derivation of the finite element global system is presented which allows us to save computing time.
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Roberto Spallino, Giuseppe Giambanco and Santi Rizzo
This paper is devoted to the optimal design of laminated composite structures. The goal of the study is to assess the quality and the performance of an algorithm based on the…
Abstract
This paper is devoted to the optimal design of laminated composite structures. The goal of the study is to assess the quality and the performance of an algorithm based on the directional derivative method. Particular attention is paid to the one‐dimensional search, a critical step of the process, performed by cubic splines approximation. The optimization problem is formulated as weight minimization, under constraints on the mechanical behavior of the structure. The assumed design variables are the ply thicknesses, treated as continuous design variables, constrained by technological requirements. The structural analysis is performed making use of quadrilateral four‐node composite elements, based on the first order shear deformation theory. The algorithm is applied to the optimization of a rectangular laminated plate. The results obtained are compared with those obtained by other similar studies and show the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed approach.
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Giovanni Aiello, Salvatore Alfonzetti, Giuseppe Borzì, Santi Agatino Rizzo and Nunzio Salerno
– The purpose of this paper is to compare the hybrid FEM-BEM and FEM-DBCI methods for the solution of open-boundary static and quasi-static electromagnetic field problems.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to compare the hybrid FEM-BEM and FEM-DBCI methods for the solution of open-boundary static and quasi-static electromagnetic field problems.
Design/methodology/approach
After a brief review of the two methods (both coupling a differential equation for the interior problem with an integral equation for the exterior one), they are compared in terms of accuracy, memory and computing time requirements by means of a set of simple examples.
Findings
The comparison suggests that FEM-BEM is more accurate than FEM-DBCI but requires more computing time.
Practical implications
Then FEM-DBCI appears more appropriate for applications which require a shorter computing time, for example in the stochastic optimization of electromagnetic devices. Conversely, FEM-BEM is more appropriate in cases in which a high level of precision is required in a single computation.
Originality/value
Note that the FEM-BEM considered in this paper is a non standard one in which the nodes of the normal derivative on the truncation boundary are placed in positions different from those of the potential.
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Chiara Oppi, Cristina Campanale and Lino Cinquini
This paper presents a systematic literature review aiming at analysing how research has addressed performance measurement systems’ (PMSs) ambiguities in the public sector. This…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper presents a systematic literature review aiming at analysing how research has addressed performance measurement systems’ (PMSs) ambiguities in the public sector. This paper embraces the ambiguity perspective that PMSs in public sector coexist with and cope with existing ambiguities.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors conducted a literature review in Scopus and ScienceDirect, considering articles published since 1985, and the authors selected articles published in the journals included in the Association of Business Schools' Academic Journal Guide (Chartered ABS, 2018). Of the 1,278 abstracts that matched the study’s search criteria, the authors selected 131 articles for full reading and 37 articles for the final discussion.
Findings
The study's key findings concern the elements of ambiguity in PMSs discussed in the literature. The study’s results suggest that ambiguity is still a relevant problem in performance measurement, as a problem that is impossible to be solved and therefore needs to be better understood by researchers and public managers. The analysis allows us to summarize the antecedents and consequences of ambiguity in the public sector.
Research limitations/implications
The key findings of the study concern the main sources of ambiguity in PMSs discussed in the literature, their antecedents and their consequences. The study results suggest that ambiguity exists in performance measurement and that is an issue to be handled with various strategies that can be implemented by managers and employees.
Practical implications
Managers and researchers may benefit from this research as it may represent a guideline to understand ambiguities in their organizations or in field research. Researchers may also benefit from a summary list of the key issues that have been analysed in the empirical cases provided by this research.
Social implications
This research may provide insights to limit ambiguity and thus contribute to improve performance measurement in the public sector.
Originality/value
This research presents a comprehensive review on the topic. It provides insight that suggests what future research should attend to in helping to interpret ambiguity, considering also what should be done to influence ambiguity.
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Beatriz Cuadrado-Ballesteros, Ana-María Ríos and María-Dolores Guillamón
Literature about transparency in public-sector organizations has been attracting the attention of scholars for the last two decades. This study reviews the existing literature…
Abstract
Purpose
Literature about transparency in public-sector organizations has been attracting the attention of scholars for the last two decades. This study reviews the existing literature with the intention of creating a description of the state of the art, categorized by geographical areas, levels of government, topics, and methodologies.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors have developed a structured literature review following a rigorous protocol. The initial search was launched on 25 April 2022 on Scopus and Web of Science, resulting in 3,217 articles. After removing duplicates and studies that did not meet all the inclusion criteria specified in the review protocol, the final sample includes 956 articles from 1991 to 2021.
Findings
The analyses show a considerable increase in studies since 2005, especially in the last two years, when 30% of the publications have been produced. Most of the studies analyze the national/central level of government. Many authors compare different countries, while other scholars focus on specific countries, overall, the USA and the UK. The local level of government has also been widely studied, especially in the Spanish and Chinese contexts. The most frequently used methodologies are quantitative and empirical techniques, and the most common topics are those associated with accountability.
Originality/value
This study uses a huge sample (956 articles over the period 1991–2021), which has never been used before, to examine the literature on transparency. The structured literature review facilitates the identification of gaps that can be filled by future studies. These include analyzing transparency in specific geographical areas like Africa, Asia, and Latin America, studying transparency at different levels of government, especially at the regional and federal levels, and providing comparative studies and case study collections.
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Surbhi Seema Sethi and Kanishk Jain
This study aims to explore the potential benefits of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in educational settings.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the potential benefits of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in educational settings.
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic review of emerging AI technologies such as virtual reality, chatbots, sentiment analysis tools, gamification and wearable devices is conducted to assess their applicability in enhancing SEL.
Findings
AI technologies present opportunities for personalized support, increased engagement, empathy development and promotion of well-being within SEL frameworks.
Research limitations/implications
Future research should focus on addressing ethical concerns, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, conducting longitudinal studies, promoting cultural sensitivity and developing robust ecosystems for AI in SEL.
Originality/value
This study contributes by outlining pathways for leveraging AI to create inclusive and supportive learning environments that nurture students' socio-emotional competencies, preparing them for success in a globally connected world.
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Giovanni Aulisa, Claudio Binda, Elvira Padua, Antonio Pratesi, Alfonso Bellia, Chiara Bellia and Mauro Lombardo
This study aims to evaluate if soya consumption can compromise or positively influence the effects of the Mediterranean diet (MD).
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to evaluate if soya consumption can compromise or positively influence the effects of the Mediterranean diet (MD).
Design/methodology/approach
A full literature review has been conducted as part of a proposal of a new point of view on the consumption of soya and its derivatives in areas where until a few decades ago this type of food did not exist at all.
Findings
There does not seem to be any contraindications for soy systematic use, therefore, excluding historical-geographical reasons, soya could be included in an MD without altering the benefits associated with it.
Practical implications
Soya is not advised as a typical food in the MD, but promoting its use could probably contribute to increase the variety of the diet and likely consolidates the positive health benefits characteristic of MD.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this review is one of the first to evaluate soybean consumption within the MD.
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This purpose of this paper is to address the problem of reducing energy consumption in existing buildings using advanced noninvasive interventions (NVIs).
Abstract
Purpose
This purpose of this paper is to address the problem of reducing energy consumption in existing buildings using advanced noninvasive interventions (NVIs).
Design/methodology/approach
The study methodology involves systematically developing and testing 18 different NVIs in six categories (glazing types, window films, external shading devices, automated internal shades, lighting systems and nanopainting) to identify the most effective individual NVIs. The impact of each individual NVI was examined on an exemplary university educational building in a hot climate zone in Egypt using a computational energy simulation tool, and the results were used to develop 39 combination scenarios of dual, triple and quadruple combinations of NVIs.
Findings
The optimal 10 combination scenarios of NVIs were determined based on achieving the highest percentages of energy reduction. The optimal percentage of energy reduction is 47.1%, and it was obtained from a combination of nanowindow film, nanopainting, LED lighting and horizontal louver external. The study found that appropriate mixture of NVIs is the most key factor in achieving the highest percentages of energy reduction.
Practical implications
These results have important implications for optimizing energy savings in existing buildings. The results can guide architects, owners and policymakers in selecting the most appropriate interventions in existing buildings to achieve the optimal reduction in energy consumption.
Originality/value
The novelty of this research unfolds in two significant ways: first, through the exploration of the potential effects arising from the integration of advanced NVIs into existing building facades. Second, it lies in the systematic development of a series of scenarios that amalgamate these NVIs, thereby pinpointing the most efficient strategies to optimize energy savings, all without necessitating any disruptive alterations to the existing building structure. These combination scenarios encompass the incorporation of both passive and active NVIs. The potential application of these diverse scenarios to a real-life case study is presented to underscore the substantial impact that these advanced NVIs can have on the energy performance of the building.
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Angelo Rosa, Teresa Angela Trunfio, Giuliano Marolla, Antonietta Costantino, Davide Nardella and Olivia McDermott
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. In Italy, acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a major cause of hospitalization and healthcare costs. AMI is a…
Abstract
Purpose
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. In Italy, acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a major cause of hospitalization and healthcare costs. AMI is a myocardial necrosis event caused by an unstable ischemic syndrome. The Italian government has defined an indicator called “AMI: 30-day mortality” to assess the quality of the overall care pathway of the heart attacked patient. In order to guarantee high standards, all hospitals had to implement techniques to increase the quality of care pathway. The aim of the paper is to identify the root cause and understand the mortality rate for AMI and redesign the patient management process in order to improve it.
Design/methodology/approach
A Lean Six Sigma (LSS) approach was used in this study to analyze the patient flow in order to reduce 30-days mortality rate from AMI registered by Complex Operative Unit (COU) of Cardiology of an Italian hospital. Value stream mapping (VSM) and Ishikawa diagrams were implemented as tools of analysis.
Findings
Process improvement using LSS methodology made it possible to reduce the overall times from 115 minutes to 75 minutes, with a reduction of 35%. In addition, the corrective actions such as the activation of a post-discharge outpatient clinic and telephone contacts allowed the 30-day mortality rate to be lowered from 16% before the project to 8% after the project. In this way, the limit value set by the Italian government was reached.
Research limitations/implications
The limitation of the study is that it is single-centered and was applied to a facility with a limited number of cases.
Practical implications
The LSS approach has brought significant benefits to the process of managing patients with AMI. Corrective actions such as the activation of an effective shared protocol or telephone interview with checklist can become the gold standard in reducing mortality. The limitation of the study is that it is single-centered and was applied to a facility with a limited number of cases.
Originality/value
LSS, applied for the first time to the management of cardiovascular diseases in Italy, is a methodology which has proved to be strategic for the improvement of healthcare process. The simple solutions implemented could serve as a guide for other hospitals to pursue the national AMI mortality target.