Cost Aspects Research Articles

Reconciliation of wire woven mesh porous media in controlling the desired heat transfer and pressure drop

Purpose Despite the reputation of the metal-based porous media for their ability to augment heat transfer as widely witnessed in the literature and practically operating heat exchanging applications, the coexisting penalty of the increased pressure drop demanding increased pumping power poses a major concern that invites the need for an alternate solution to handle this unsought outcome. Therefore, this study aims at providing a better solution to the existing cost and benefit scenarios to benefit a plethora of engineering applications including energy transfer, energy storage and energy conversion. Design/methodology/approach This work highlights on the property of stacked woven wire mesh porous media such as their stacking types, porous conditions and thickness scenarios that can potentially result in distinct trade-off scenarios. A vertical channel is numerical modelled by using REV scaled modelling technique using Darcy-Forchheimer and local thermal non-equilibrium models to illustrate the possibilities of this variety of trade off scenarios between the desirable heat transfer and the unsought flow resistance. Findings This work illustrates the advantages of wire mesh-based porous medium and its distinct potential in controlling the existing trade-offs between the cost and benefit aspects. It is found that by varying the features of wire mesh porous media, the interplay between the conflictingly existing characteristics can be much easily handled specific to distinct requirements associated with variety of engineering applications. Originality/value The study emphasizes on a new solution or methodology to handle the penalty of pressure drop associated with metal-based porous media. Through this study, a novel approach to control the ultimately costing pumping power at the benefit of increased heat transfer is provided considering various requirements that could be associated with any thermal management systems. Various possibilities and potentials of wire mesh porous media are illustrated highlighting on their benefit of ease with which the mentioned goals can be achieved.

Comparative assessment of recycled concrete and recycled asphalt aggregate in pervious concrete: emphasis on strength and life cycle assessment

ABSTRACT Pavements create an impermeable layer, contributing to a decrease in groundwater recharge and a rise in flood frequency in urban areas. Pervious concrete pavement (PCP) is considered one of the solutions to address the problems associated with impermeability. Due to the low-strength applications of PCP and to address the environmental issues associated with recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) and recycled asphalt pavement (RAP), studies have used them as replacements for natural aggregate (NA). Past studies recommended the optimum RCA or RAP content based on mechanical and durability investigations. This study investigates strength and environmental aspects of using RCA and RAP in PC by replacing NA with RCA and RAP at 30, 60, and 90% by volume. The compressive strength of RCA-PC mixtures at 7 days was found to be higher than that of RAP-PC mixtures, while RAP-PC mixtures displayed better abrasion resistance. Total embodied energy (TEE) and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) with 90% replacement of RCA and RAP were 6.5–7.5% and 12.5–13.42% lower than control mixtures for different transportation distances, respectively. The cost-per-strength ratio indicated that RCA-PC mixtures were more preferred than RAP-PC mixtures. Overall, the study recommends 30% RCA/RAP content in PC, considering strength, cost, and environmental aspects.

Linking teachers’ and students’ motivation for self-regulated learning: is there a signal and how is it transmitted?

Teachers’ motivation is a core professional competence that influences their choices in their decision-making, such as promoting self-regulated learning (SRL). Promoting SRL supports students’ SRL development and might affect students’ motivation to apply strategies. However, the link between teachers’ motivation to promote SRL and students’ motivation to apply strategies has yet to be empirically investigated. In a multilevel analysis that included 167 lower secondary teachers and their 2,785 students, we analysed the direct and indirect relationships between teachers’ self-efficacy and attainment value, the teacher- and student-reported SRL promotion and students’ self-efficacy, utility value, attainment value and cost at the class and individual level. Additionally, we investigated the contribution of teacher- and student-reported SRL promotion to find indirect relations. Teachers’ self-efficacy was related to teacher-reported SRL promotion, and student-reported SRL promotion was associated with all motivational outcomes at the class and student level except for cost. Further, we found indirect effects between teachers’ self-efficacy for SRL promotion and students’ values and self-efficacy for SRL via teachers- and students-perceived SRL promotion. No direct effects between teacher and student motivation could be found, and no significant indirect relationships were found for the cost aspect. Regarding how the signal is transmitted, the results show that including student reports of SRL promotion is especially crucial to finding indirect links. However, future studies should employ longitudinal designs and incorporate more nuanced teacher and student motivation measures in SRL to better understand the motivational links between teachers and students.

Optimization of 3D Printing While Traveling En Route to Extend Range of Unmanned Aircraft Systems for Multilocation Mission Scenarios

Abstract The nexus of two relatively recent technologies, additive manufacturing and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), has enabled new and unique capabilities that have only started to be realized in integrated systems. This article explores and quantifies the impact of 3D printing parts for UAS, or entire UAS systems, on an agent platform, while this agent travels to multiple locations as part of a mission objective. The fully printed or enhanced UAS can then be released at launch points farther away from the goal locations. This, in turn, can accelerate mission completion times and reduce travel costs depending upon the ratio between vehicle speed and 3D printing rate. Thousands of scenarios are optimized across the design space to minimize the travel path length for the agent platform as a result of 3D printing en route to the locations of interest. Results indicate that based on the print capability and agent travel speed, an exponential decay in the amount of travel distance of the agent platform occurs. For unity ratios of print speed and agent speed in the considered design space, a decrease of 55% in the total required distance of our agent is observed. This reduction in total travel distance can reduce time, fuel, cost, and other aspects including other environmental and social impacts. A generalized optimization formulation is also presented at the end to enable similar analyses with other en route range-extending technology such as battery charging.

Parametric and non‐parametric measurement of efficiency in hotel industry: A systematic literature review

AbstractThis paper conducts an extensive systematic literature review on the measurement of efficiency in the hotel sector, which is the cornerstone of tourism. Thus, scrutinizing its performance measurement is vital for the advancement and strategic development of the sector. Exploiting the Scopus database, the paper offers a unique methodology for documenting sample transparency and selection objectivity and can constitute an example for future literature reviews. A range of articles is assessed to discern prevailing trends, key authors, and influential journals. A division of parametric and non‐parametric nature, various efficiency measurement methodologies, the input and output variables, geographical covering as well as various other metrics and benchmarks have been included. The study reveals a predominant focus on technical efficiency and commonly employed input variables such as the number of hotel rooms and employees. The paper suggests future research directions, advocating for a broader exploration of efficiency dimensions, including profit and cost aspects, the integration of emerging variables like digitalization and environmental factors and the use of larger samples. This study provides a comprehensive overview beneficial for academics, industry practitioners, and policymakers, synthesizing a clear orientation in the subject and indicating critical research routes for advancing the field's understanding and practical applications.

Facility location optimization with market segmentation for additive manufacturing material supplier network using quantum annealing

The determination of the material suppliers for additive manufacturing (AM) centers is a typical facility location problem (FLP). Current methods for solving the FLP in AM network design mainly focus on improving the cost, distance, and supply chain aspects and neglect market segmentation. However, AM feedstock suppliers need to understand the market size they serve so they can better prepare their inventory plans. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a new approach for the FLP with geographic market segmentation of AM material supplier networks, in which the facility locations and market segments of AM material suppliers are optimized in a multi-objective optimization problem. In order to confirm the feasibility of the proposed method, a simplified design case for a German state has been carried out.

Optimizing asset management for Structure System Components of RSG-GAS: A reliability-centric approach

This study focuses on the Structure, System, and Components (SSC) of G.A Siwabessy Multipurpose Reactor (RSG-GAS), emphasizing the integration of reliability improvement within asset management optimization. The research aims to derive Maintenance Priority Index (MPI) values, contributing to system reliability ratings, crucial for assessing component functionality and estimating Remaining Useful Life (RUL) The methodology involves measuring critical aspects of system quality, safety, and cost. The MPI value, representing 10 % of SSC critical components, guides subsequent reliability calculations. Utilizing failure data from RSG-GAS components (2010–2018) and reactor core configurations (70th-96th core), SSC reliability is simulated using Monte Carlo simulation, with RUL based on real data. High MPI values are identified for critical components such as KBE01/AP01-02_B in the primary purification system, JE-01/AP01-02_A in the primary cooling system, and PA01-02/CR001_A in the secondary cooling system. Maintenance intervals of 100 days are recommended for KBE01/AP 01–02_B and JE-01/AP01-02_A, exceeding 50 % reliability, while PA01-02/CR001_A maintenance can extend to 75 days. Monte Carlo simulation results, with 1000 samples, closely align with real reliability values. The RUL result projects operational lifetimes of 225.6, 221.4, and 171.5 days for KBE01/AP 01–02_B, JE-01/AP01-02_A, and PA01-02/CR001_A components. This study improves asset management, offering practical insights for critical safety system component maintenance planning.

A Method for Calculating the Environmental Protection Cost of Cement Plants Taking into Account the Diffusion Characteristics of Air Pollutants

Abstract In recent years, China’s installed capacity of new energy has been continuously improved, and the problem of new energy consumption has become increasingly prominent. The cement load has considerable demand response potential and can effectively help absorb new energy sources, but its high emission characteristics limit the development of the cement industry. In this context, the establishment of a systematic and refined cement load emission cost model will be of great significance to improve the wind power absorption capacity and promote the low-carbon and environmentally friendly operation of the power system. In this paper, the emission characteristics of SO2, NOx, particulate matter and CO2 from the cement load are analyzed. according to the cement production process. Then, the air pollutant emission cost of the cement plant is described from the aspects of environmental protection tax and environmental protection supplementary cost, and the carbon emission cost of the cement plant is calculated by using the laddered carbon transaction cost model, and finally the emission cost model of the cement plant is constructed.

Unraveling elements of value-based pricing from a pharmaceutical industry's perspective: a scoping review.

Health authorities use value-based pricing models to determine the value of innovative drugs and to establish a price. Pharmaceutical companies prefer value-based pricing over cost-based pricing. It is ambiguous whether value-based pricing has the same meaning to these stakeholders. We aimed to identify the elements that attribute to value-based pricing of innovative drugs from a pharmaceutical industry's perspective and as possible starting point for (value-based) contracting of drugs. We performed a scoping review of publications available in scientific databases with terms such as 'value-based pricing', 'pharmacoeconomics', 'drug cost', 'innovative drug' and 'drug therapy'. We included 31 publications, covering value elements of innovative drugs from a pharmaceutical industry's perspective. Overall, all found elements of value-based pricing were congruent with the elements of value-based pricing from a health authority's perspective. However, the emphasis placed on the elements differed. The most frequently mentioned elements in our review were economic considerations and cost aspects. Least mentioned were elements regarding cost-effectiveness, disease characteristics and patient characteristics. Although all elements in the drug value framework were present which indicate congruity, there seems controversy on the importance of cost-effectiveness as an element of value. Consequently, establishing a coherent and to all stakeholders' acceptable framework to value and price innovative drugs seems complicated. Mutual understanding can be found in the value elements societal considerations and healthcare process benefits. Our results supported the importance of economic and cost aspects regarding determination of prices of innovative drugs. Further research is required to quantify the weights of all relevant elements in the drug value framework, observe their possible interlinkages, and to weigh them over time.

Bioimpedance measurement device based on an active terminated current source and a four-point measurement technique

In this paper, a low-cost fully compact differential bioimpedance-monitoring front-end based on a precision Voltage-Controlled-Current-Source (VCCS) coupled with high input impedance differential voltage measurement is depicted. This system uses a high input-impedance discrete differential amplifier to allow integrated voltage measurement for 2 or 4 wires measurement methods. The low cost aspect of the devices, its reduced size (portable) and its reconfigurability allow for a wide prospect of applications in environment monitoring or biomedical embedded devices.

Project Politics in Public Housing in Small Island Developing States: A Case Study of Cost and Revenue

Purpose: This research aims to explore the intricate dynamics of project politics in public housing development within Small Island Developing States (SIDS), with a particular focus on the interplay between costs and revenue. Methodology: Utilizing a detailed case study approach, this paper investigates a specific public housing project in a SIDS, analyzing the political dynamics surrounding its cost and revenue aspects. Findings: The study reveals that political factors significantly influence decision-making processes, resource allocation, and the financial viability of public housing projects in SIDS. Political interference often results in resource misallocation, cost overruns, and inefficiencies in revenue generation. Additionally, patronage and nepotism lead to housing resource distribution based on political favoritism rather than genuine need, undermining the effectiveness and fairness of public housing initiatives. Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: This research underscores the critical importance of addressing project politics to ensure sustainable and effective housing solutions in SIDS. By highlighting the need for enhanced financial viability, transparency, and accountability in public housing projects, this study contributes valuable insights to the theoretical understanding of development politics. It also offers practical recommendations for policymakers to mitigate political interference, thereby fostering equitable and sustainable public housing solutions in SIDS.

Deep neural network optimization of a continuous solar-geothermal-driven plant with integrated thermal and mechanical energy storage: Incorporating bypass mechanism

In this current investigation, optimizing the cost and technological aspects of a novel integrated dual energy storage system embedded in a solar-geothermal-driven plant is proposed to assist in generating inexpensive and continuous power, fresh water, and hydrogen. the devised compressed air energy storage unit, aims to store a portion of the compressed air in the storage tank to use later for low-priced electricity production in peak demand times, and via a Bypass, the rest of the compressed air is used to run the downward sub-cycles even during the charging phase of the compressed air energy storage tank. The novel introduction of a Bypass in the compressed air energy storage unit, accelerates the synergy of the system by enabling the compressed air energy storage unit to continuously provide pressurized air to the system, instead of only supplying pressurized air for a limited time. Therefore, this will largely contribute to an increase in the production of the system. The introduction of the Bypass in the CAES unit has resulted in a significant 20.36 % increase in its round-trip efficiency, with only a negligible 2.8482 % rise in the overall cost rate, and a major 44.05 % increase in the rate of hydrogen production. The heated compressed air by the heliostat field is stored in the phase change material tank to supply the gas turbine with a constant heat load. Additionally, geothermal energy as an auxiliary energy source helps to generate desired products. A parametric study investigates how design parameters affect system performance. Through deep learning optimization which involves artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms, reduces the time used in optimization as it helps in finding the best solution fast and efficient. Based on multi-objective optimization, the system achieves a round-trip efficiency of 46 %, produces 6.956 kg/day of hydrogen, and has a total cost rate of 1.46 $/s.

Exploration On the Construction of Smart Campus All-Optical Network

With the rapid development of information technology, the construction of education informatization is urgent, and it is particularly important to promote the gradual development of colleges and universities towards digital transformation. Among them, the construction of smart campus has become an important means to enhance the level of education informatization and improve the quality of education and teaching. As an important part of the new generation of information technology, all-optical network has been widely used in the construction of smart campus. This paper first summarizes the existing network bottlenecks of traditional networks under the trend of digital campus transformation, including the problems of operation and maintenance management, network bandwidth, service expansion and weak current security, then introduces the necessity of all-optical network construction from the aspects of network bandwidth, stability and maintenance cost, and finally demonstrates the construction value of all-optical network through application scenarios. It provides a useful reference for the construction of smart campus all-optical network.

In-Depth Photocatalytic Degradation Mechanism of the Extensively Used Dyes Malachite Green, Methylene Blue, Congo Red, and Rhodamine B via Covalent Organic Framework-Based Photocatalysts

Photocatalytic degradation technology has received much attention from researchers in the last few decades, due to its easy and cost-effective nature. A lot of review articles have been published on dyes via photocatalytic degradation, but most of the review articles lack a detailed and in-depth photocatalytic degradation mechanism of dyes. Numerous review articles are available on photocatalysis. Here, in this review article, we are mainly focused on the complete and in-depth photocatalytic degradation mechanism of four commonly used dyes such as Malachite Green, Methylene Blue, Congo Red and Rhodamine B, which will be highly useful for the new researchers that work on dyes’ photocatalytic degradation. Initially, various aspects of dyes have been included in this review article, comprehensively. The main focus was on the covalent organic framework-based photocatalysts for dyes’ photocatalytic degradation, due to their porous nature and various unique properties. Various synthesis routes and the photocatalytic performance of covalent organic frameworks and composite of covalent organic frameworks have been highlighted in this review article. In the last section of this review article, the main stimulus was the four mentioned dyes’ properties, uses, and toxicity, and the photocatalytic degradation mechanism through various paths into environmentally friendly and less-harmful compounds in the presence of photocatalysts. Factors effecting the photocatalytic degradation, economic cost, challenges and future aspects of photocatalytic technology were also included in this review article. This review article will be highly useful for those researchers that work on the photocatalytic degradation of various dyes and search for the complete degradation of complex dye molecules.

Proposal for Promotion of the Solar Photovoltaic Power Industry in Korea

This paper focuses on the crucial role of solar power generation in addressing global warming. It examines South Korea's solar technology, which demonstrates high proficiency at approximately 90% (EU standard) and outperforms the EU in system operation and maintenance. Despite China's lower technological score (87.5%), its competitive pricing has led to an increase in the market share of Chinese products, eroding South Korea's competitiveness. The research identifies cost issues compared to coal and explores avenues for improvement, particularly in direct and indirect cost aspects. In the direct cost domain, proposals include establishing solar cell production facilities in countries with low labor costs and favorable tax incentives to reduce equipment costs. In the indirect cost domain, suggestions involve leveraging building-integrated solar and unused land to cut permit and financial expenses. The paper highlights reasons for the inadequate adoption of building-integrated solar in South Korea, such as mortgage issues, pricing constraints due to the System Marginal Price (SMP) system, and the limited deployment of microgrids. Emphasis is placed on the activation of microgrids, introducing new transaction methods and promoting efficient power transactions through infrastructure. These efforts are expected to lead to the sustained growth of the solar power generation industry in the future.

Proposal of Set of Optimization Criteria and Their Specific Calculation for Effective Inventory Management in an Industrial Enterprise

Currently, there are many mathematical models and tools for inventory management and optimization. Based on the literature review, the authors conclude that inventory management tools and models are mostly one-sided and focused on the cost aspect of the inventory management process. The research goal was to propose a set of criteria for inventory optimization as a basis for the development of an inventory management model whose structure would consider both the economic aspect and the stochasticity of demand and the reliability of delivery. Optimization criteria are based on extensive analyses of influences and correlations between logistic chain subsystems in relation to inventory. The interactions of the subsystems are then mathematically expressed, which represents the main output of the created set of optimization criteria. The defined criteria can be used as a basis for creating a new optimization model of inventory management.

Emerging Medications and Strategies in Acute Pain Management: Evolving Role of Novel Sodium and Calcium Channel Blockers, Peptide-Based Pharmacologic Drugs, and Non-Medicinal Methods.

The present investigation evaluated integration of novel medication technology to enhance treatment options, while improving patient outcomes in acute pain management. In this regard, we focused on determining the role of development and utilization of cutting-edge pharmaceutical advancements, such as targeted drug delivery systems, as well as non-pharmacologic interventions in addressing acute pain states. Further research in this area is warranted related to the need for increased patient comfort and reduced adverse effects. Recent innovations and techniques are discussed including pharmacologic drugs targeting sodium and calcium channels, peptide-based pharmacologic drugs, and non-medicinal methods of alleviating pain such as soothing music or virtual reality. The present investigation included review of current literature on the application of these innovative technologies, analyzing mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and clinical effectiveness. Our study also investigated the potential benefits in terms of pain relief, reduced side effects, and improved patient adherence. The research critically examines the challenges and considerations associated with implementing these technologies in acute pain management, considering factors like cost, accessibility, and regulatory aspects. Additionally, case studies and clinical trials are highlighted which demonstrate practical implications of these novel medication technologies in real-world scenarios. The findings aim to provide healthcare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape in acute pain management while guiding future research and clinical practices toward optimizing their use in enhancing patient care.

Assessing the bioaccumulation and translocation potential of vetiver grass for dioxins phytoremediation in Bien Hoa airbase, Viet Nam

Dioxins (PCDD/Fs) are well-known toxic organic pollutants that accumulate in the environment and the food chain, imposing a risk to human health and the ecosystem. Due to the use of dioxin-contaminated herbicides during the US-Vietnam War, there are several hotspots in Vietnam with very high levels of dioxins. Phytoremediation has been increasingly developed in recent decades because of its low cost and environmental-friendly aspect. Vetiver grass is a plant that can remediate both organic and inorganic agents. In this study, the uptake and translocation of dioxins in Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) from the dioxin-contaminated soil was investigated in a field experiment on the Bien Hoa airbase, Vietnam. An experimental area was divided into six plots, of which three were planted with Vetiver grass and three served as control plots, with the initial dioxin concentrations as following: FC2>FC3>FC1>FT2>FT3>FT1. Vetiver grass had grown well on the dioxin-contaminated soils, yielding high biomass and the level of dioxins in the roots of vetiver grass was positively correlated (r2 = 0.67; p<0.01) with its growth rate. During the first year of cultivation, Vetiver grass had the greatest capacity to efficiently accumulate dioxin. Accumulation occurs in the roots, with BAF>1 throughout the entire experiment period for FT3, and in the first year for FT1 and FT2. The dioxin translocation from the roots to the shoots was significantly lower than the BAF and less than one (TF<1), with the first and second sampling times having the highest values compared to the others. Dioxin concentrations do not provide a reliable indicator of its bioavailability but numerous other factors, such as physicochemical properties of the soil and microbes. Our study aims to contribute significant insights to capability of Vetiver grass to accumulate and translocate dioxins, hence the arsenal of dioxin remediation. Furthermore, we envisage translating our findings into practical applications in other areas, considering optimized planting techniques, growth conditions, and long-term sustainability.

Integrated Waqf Farm: A Contemporary Model for Waqf Land Development

The important role of waqf is felt to have been greatly reduced recently, due to various problems faced in developing waqf land. The lack of nazhir competence, limited development capital, and management that is not yet professional are some of the many problems in waqf. Various approaches are needed to close this problem, such as changing the form of waqf, cooperation between lines, and other alternative innovations. This research aims to reveal contemporary innovation models in integrated agricultural waqf land development and analyze the benefits, opportunities, costs and risks using the analytic network process approach-Benefit, Opportunity, Cost and Risk (BOCR). This research design uses an interpretative paradigm with a qualitative approach in the form of a case study. Through content analysis, data obtained from interviews is then interpreted according to the research objectives. This research reveals that there are two types of innovation developed through the integration of agriculture in waqf development. �Bersamamu sadar ternak� is a livestock-based innovation, this innovation is the result of collaboration with farmers to produce sheep without costs being charged to partners. To strengthen the existence of tourism on this waqf land, "Kopi Bersamamu" is the next caf�-based innovation. Through BOCR analysis among waqf experts, "waqf land becomes productive" is the benefit element that is considered the most important with an average of 0.34. "Business development opportunities" is the most important element in the opportunity elements with a mean of 0.38. Meanwhile, "high costs for technology, management and maintenance" is considered the highest element in the cost aspect. Finally, "Shariah compliance risk" is the greatest risk in developing agricultural-based waqf land with an average of 0.45

Staycation: A review of definitions, trends, and intersections

Staycations have emerged as a popular alternative in the tourism industry, driven by travel risks and restrictions. However, the concept of staycations remains ambiguous, lacking a clear definition and distinct features. This review aims to shed light on key aspects of staycations, including time, distance, types, locations, cost, and benefits. As tourism becomes an integral part of modern lifestyle, there is a need for further research on proximity experiences, both in physical and online spaces. Future studies should focus on staycation development, product design, well-being considerations, and sustainability aspects. This review offers valuable insights to support in-depth investigations, enabling the enhancement of domestic tourism and resident well-being. It also emphasizes the importance of integrating advanced technologies and promoting sustainable practices for a thriving staycation industry.