Desirable Ones Research Articles

Intelligent multi-parameter control of a rectangular pulse in a passively mode-locked fiber laser

Rectangular pulses with tunable width and intensity in fiber lasers are critical for the study of nonlinear pulse dynamics and applications of nanosecond laser sources. However, due to the complex nonlinear dynamics within the laser cavity, precisely controlling multiple parameters of the rectangular pulses in fiber lasers remains challenging. Here, we propose an approach for intelligently controlling the intensity and width of rectangular pulse using an improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm in a passively mode-locked fiber laser with a nonlinear polarization rotation (NPR) technique. By automatically adjusting the electronic polarization controller (EPC) and pump power, multiple parameters of the output rectangular pulse can be effectively tailored, and thus, to desirable ones. This enables the flexible setting of the intensity and width of the rectangular pulse within the permissible range in a passively mode-locked fiber laser. Our approach provides a promising way to meet the diverse demands of seed laser source in scientific and engineering fields.

The implementability of liberalism

AbstractThis note shows that under the unrestricted domain, there exists a choice liberal and Nash implementable social choice rule if and only if there are at least three players and the outcome set is at least twice as large as the player set. A social choice rule is choice liberal if and only if for every player, there exists at least one pair of outcomes such that if this player strictly prefers one over the other, the one he prefers is socially desirable and the other one is not. A social choice rule is Nash implementable if and only if there exists a mechanism such that at every preference profile, the set of Nash equilibrium outcomes coincides with the set of socially desirable ones. The proof constructs an intuitive Nash implementing mechanism.

Integrated analytic hierarchy process and multi-criteria decision-making approach: An Application for Unmanned Underwater Vehicle Control Method Selection

Using Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) techniques, it is possible to thoroughly examine all available options and determine the most desirable ones. However, the prevalence of these methods, which employ various computational changes, can result in disparate outcomes. Therefore, the final rankings should be as dependable and consistent as possible. In this study, the consistency of the findings obtained from the TOPSIS, COPRAS, MAUT, and MOOSRA methodologies was investigated in the real-world problem of Unmanned Underwater Vehicle Control Method Selection by forming decision matrices through simulations.

Microorganisms in beet sugar production – perspective on technological opportunities and risks

The sugar industry has long faced challenges from microorganisms during production. Preventing sugar losses and microbial-related issues such as the formation of organic acids, gases like CO2 or H2, or slimy substances continues to be key concerns. Fortunately, process parameters such as high temperatures, low pH values and limited oxygen availability create unfriendly conditions for microorganisms, and antimicrobial agents have been developed to control microbial growth. However, a proactive approach would utilize the advantageous properties of microorganisms to break down undesirable substances and promote desirable ones. For example, acidic by-products from bacterial metabolism lower the pH and thus stabilize sugar beet cossettes during pressing. Additionally, beneficial metabolic processes have been recognized, such as preferentially utilizing monosaccharides instead of sucrose or selectively degrading undesired substances (e.g., converting nitrite into elemental nitrogen). Modern sequencing techniques continue to identify unknown bacteria with the potential to improve the process. Exploring these bacteria could offer valuable insights for a better microorganism management in beet sugar production. This perspective article discusses the microbial diversity in beet sugar factories and strategies for better utilization of microbial benefits, aiming for sustainable improvements in sucrose extraction. However, extensive research is necessary to identify and characterize suitable bacterial species and how best to exploit them.

Evaluation of sugarcane genotypes (Saccharum sp. hybrid) for multi-trait stability analysis across diverse environments

The current study evaluated a total of 21 sugarcane genotypes across 27 diverse environments, including nine locations over three cropping seasons, to identify the superior and stable sugarcane genotypes. The pooled ANOVA results showed substantial genotype-environment interactions among the 21 genotypes under study. The genotype Co 11015 exhibited the highest mean value for CCS yield, CCS percentage, and sucrose percentage. With the help of GGE analysis and biplots, both stable genotypes as well as mega environments were identified. The following genotypes such as Co 13014, Co 11015, Co 13018 and Co 14016 emerged as the high-mean performers and exhibited stability across diverse environments. The outcomes from ‘which-won-where’ patterns suggested the existence of different mega environments which are classified as ME1, ME2, and ME3. When the genotypes were ranked, it revealed that Co 14016 is closer to the ideal genotype, followed by Co 13014, Co 11015, and Co 13018 as the most desirable genotypes. Similarly, the environments E8, E25, and E26 were identified as the most desirable ones, based on GGE biplot environment rankings. The Multi-Trait Stability Index (MTSI) values highlighted the following genotypes such as Co 13018, Co 13003, and Co 11015 as stable ones with high performance across the traits and environments. The MGIDI (Multi-trait Genotype Ideotype Distance Index) values inferred that Co 11015, Co 15007, and Co 13018 are the superior genotypes. Consequently, Co 11015 was released for commercial cultivation based on its stability and superior performance for biomass yield and quality traits across the locations and environments.

Validating a Qualitative Interview Schedule on Multilingualism and Second Language Vocabulary Attrition and Maintenance

This paper focuses on the validation process of a qualitative interview schedule designed to investigate the nuanced dynamics of multilingualism and second language vocabulary attrition and maintenance. The interview schedule was developed to gain insights into the complexities of the participants’ language experiences, identities, as well as vocabulary learning and retention strategies. Second language speakers of English with diverse linguistic backgrounds were selected for the study to ensure the reliability and validity of the interview. The piloting stage played a pivotal role in laying the ground for refined interview questions, where data authenticity was ensured through the creation of a comfortable environment that helped participants provide genuine responses and avoid offering socially desirable ones. The interview questions were piloted multiple times to identify and resolve any inconsistencies in the participants’ responses. The validated interview schedule can serve as a dependable data collection tool and prompt researchers to consider the implications of second language vocabulary attrition and maintenance for pedagogical practices.

Re-imagining higher education futures

This workshop is intended for those who have an interest in speculative methods, storytelling and the future of networked learning in universities. The workshop will use a set of new speculative scenarios for the future of higher education teaching. The scenarios were developed in 2022 to work as a provocation and starting point for new conversations about the future of our universities and the teaching we do through them. They aim to unsettle assumed futures and support us to imagine new, desirable ones. They are told from a particular time and place, and speak to present concerns and hopes. Each scenario is accompanied by a piece of microfiction which aims to convey something of what of what our imagined futures might look and feel like. It will be run by Sian Bayne and Jen Ross.

Impact of using the collective guidance program on substituting the non-desirable study habits and skills with desirable ones among commerce secondary school students

Impact of using the collective guidance program on substituting the non-desirable study habits and skills with desirable ones among commerce secondary school students

The seventh transport revolution and the new challenges for sustainable mobility

Over the course of history there have been several and significant changes in the methods and technologies used to move people and things. Innovations typically follow the distributive and social needs of their time but in some cases they drive or at least contribute to the social and economic evolution of human communities. The paper is based on the hypothesis that transport system innovations occur with different speeds and have impacts of different magnitude in different historical moments. Changes can thus be classified as revolutions or as evolutions depending on weather they (contribute to) change societal, economic and/or territorial systems in a relatively short time period or not. In this paper, analysing the history of humanity, six transport revolutions and several evolutions following over time have been identified, extending and re-defining the ideas of Gilbert and Pearl (2010). We suggest that transportation systems are undergoing a seventh revolutionary phase due to the combined effects of three main drivers. These are innovations in energy sources and their transmission, developments of connected and autonomous vehicles for all transportation modes, and new smart mobility services. As for past revolutions it's impossible anticipate the extent of change it will bring about, both in the transportation market and in society at large. According to the “law of unintended consequences” of previous revolutions, the combined effects of the three drivers will likely further amplify the scope of possible changes. These changes can have positive, neutral or negative effects on short to medium term for environmental, social and economic sustainability of freights and passengers transportation. The paper starts with a synthetic description of previous transport revolutions, as proposed by the Authors. The main elements of the seventh transport revolution are then discussed together with some possible interactions among them. Finally the paper analyses some opportunities and risks connected to the ongoing innovation with respect to environmental, social ed economic sustainability. The perception of the current time as a revolutionary phase should change the approach of researchers and practitioners in the wide field of transportation system analysis with respect to the last evolutionary decades. Future research, in addition to sector specific evolutions, should focus on the actual holistic deployment of the seventh revolution trying to continuously update its combined effects and anticipate as much as possible its trajectory in order to reduce undesirable ones while boasting desirable ones. Future transport policies, especially in urban areas, will have to take into account the opportunities and risks deriving from the ongoing transport revolution as well as the resulting level of uncertainty.

Using an SBM-NDEA model to assess the desirable and undesirable outputs of sustainable supply chain: A case study in wheat industry

In most production activities, desirable and undesirable outputs are produced together, and they are interdependent. As a result, reducing undesirable outputs can also decrease desirable ones. This study introduces concepts and models and applies them to a practical example for the first time, considering the dependency of production between desirable and undesirable outputs in an SBM network system. The aim is to assess the sustainability of supply chains. To achieve this goal, a new network data envelopment analysis (NDEA) model is developed based on the Slack Based Model (SBM). A case study is presented to evaluate the sustainability of wheat supply chains, which demonstrates various aspects of the proposed model, which considers both desirable and undesirable outputs produced together.

Simulation of Mathematical Model of Network Interference on Global System for Mobile Communication

Network interference is the incorporation of undesirable signals to desirable ones in an interconnected system. In this paper, the simulation of mathematical model of network interference with respect to global system of mobile communication is presented. The model was formulated and analyzed mathematically. Numerical simulation was carried out using real life data from Communication Towers Nigeria Limited, Northwest regional office Kaduna, Nigeria. The results obtained were very close to that of laboratory investigation.
 Keywords: Mathematical Model, Network, Interference, Congestion, Mobile communication, Stability

Rehabilitation and reforms of issues in vehicle parks lots and tower blocks structures

Unsafe, offensive, and damaging to the environment. Homeowners and builders are searching for efficient ways to transform worn-out houses into desirable ones in light of these difficulties. In this study, we sought to address the issue of rehabilitation and reforms in parking lots for vehicles (VP) and tower buildings (TB). The most effective cladding system for building envelope purposes currently has been discovered to be a new generation of rainproof substructures, whose installation is actually much easier than it first appears and is a constructive solution that perfectly fits with current sustainable architecture trends.

Production of Wine from Soursop Fruit Pulp for Entrepreneurship and Economic Sustainability in Rivers State, Nigeria

The role of fruits in the human diet is well established due to various important nutritive and biologically active components intrinsic to fruits. Consequently, fruit wines tend to preserve these components, along with developing new desirable ones in the final product. Wine contains most of the nutrients present in the original fruit juice. The production of fruit wines is growing steadily in recent years, driven by the demand for new functional products. Soursop has a short shelf life under the prevailing temperature and humidity conditions. This results in to waste of fruits because of poor handling and inadequate storage facilities. Moreover, fermenting soursop juice into wine is considered an attractive means of utilizing surplus soursop. In this research, Table wine was successfully produced from soursop juice with an alcoholic content of 7%; physiochemical and sensory evaluation revealed the wine was of good quality after aging for three months. Results were comparable to a commercial wine used as a control.

Feasible versus desirable market offerings: the role of choice set size

PurposeThis paper aims to find out what product features become salient when consumers are exposed to many market offerings, demonstrating how choice set size influences construal mindset, which then affects the type of product consumers choose.Design/methodology/approachExperiment 1 provides preliminary evidence that being exposed to a large (vs small) choice set may drive people to focus more on the feasibility (i.e. a secondary feature) of a product and less on the desirability (i.e. a primary feature) when making a choice. Experiment 2 unveils the serial mediating roles of construal level and importance of price/design.FindingsConsumers are more likely to select feasible (i.e. affordable) market offerings and not desirable (i.e. well-designed) ones when choosing from a large (vs small) choice set. This effect is serially mediated by mental construals and by the importance of price or design. Choosing from a large (vs small) choice set leads to low-level mental construals, which increase the importance of price (a feasibility attribute) while decreasing the importance of design (a desirability attribute), resulting in choice of feasible (affordable) market offerings over well-designed ones.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough consumers generally focus on the desirability of a choice or an action, choosing from large choice sets makes them focus more on the feasibility of market offerings because of low-level mental construals.Practical implicationsIn today’s era of e-commerce, as consumers are exposed to too many product offerings, retailers should emphasize the feasibility of their market offerings (e.g. affordability) to increase the chance that consumers purchase their products. This research shows that people rely very much on product price to make selections when provided with a large choice set.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to show that large choice sets make consumers choose affordable products over well-designed ones and introduces the serial mediation effect of construal level and importance of price/design. Accordingly, this research establishes that large choice sets activate low-level mental construals, which associate with a feasibility mindset that ultimately makes consumers choose an affordable product instead of a well-designed one. It adds to the literature on choice overload by showing that the importance of price overshadows the importance of design (aesthetics) when people are exposed to large choice sets.

Roadmap Design for Envisioning Future Work Styles Using Human Augmentation Technologies

A great deal of attention is paid to the transformation of current work styles to sustainable ones by means of human augmentation technologies (HATs). However, it is still unclear how HATs would satisfy the potential needs for future work styles in the post-COVID era and what HATs need to be further developed in order to satisfy these needs. Drawing on the backcasting-based roadmap design method, this article aims to develop a roadmap to envision future work styles using HATs. For this purpose, we organized an expert workshop to extract various HATs and needs for work styles and identified the gaps between the HATs and work styles. Based on the total of 121 keywords generated during the workshop, we described several storylines using both forecasting and backcasting approaches. The results showed that higher priority is placed on flexibility and diversity in the work style. From a technological viewpoint, communication technologies, digitalization of skills, and agent technologies seem promising to change our work styles to more desirable ones. In addition, diverse work styles in a physical or virtual space will be enabled by HATs, removing time and space limitations. The present study provides a useful framework for developing the research agenda of HATs in the context of work style design.

Evaluation of insurance companies considering uncertainty: A multi-objective network data envelopment analysis model with negative data and undesirable outputs

Uncertainty is an important issue to consider when evaluating entities in both public and private sectors. On the other hand, many operations have more than one stage process when some inputs are fed to the system to produce a number of intermediate measures. The intermediate measures are then transformed into final products in the subsequent stages. The composition method in network data envelopment analysis (NDEA) is a popular method for measuring the efficiency of a two-stage process. The composition method is fractional bi-objective programming that is solved by non-linear programming techniques such as bisection search. In this paper, the two-stage NDEA is extended with negative data and undesirable outputs. First, we propose an alternative linear model based on the goal programming technique to avoid complex non-linear calculations. Then, we use a method to transform negative data into positive and undesirable outputs into desirable ones. Finally, we develop the proposed model using the fuzzy α-cut approach in order to incorporate data uncertainty in the linear goal programming (GP) model. To validate the accuracy of the proposed model, a numerical example is solved. To show the applicability of the proposed model, a real case of 22 insurance companies is examined. We also perform a comparative analysis to specify the benchmark and inefficient companies. Comparative analysis can help managers to recognize where improvement should be investigated with priority.

Catalytic pyrolysis of polymers with brominated flame-retardants originating in waste electric and electronic equipment (WEEE) using various catalysts

The increasing volume of plastics in waste electric and electronic equipment (WEEE) together with the existence of potentially hazardous compounds make it of paramount importance to explore advanced recycling techniques for controlling the formation of undesirable products while enhancing the formation of the desirable ones. Harmful compounds could be formed during their recycling by pyrolysis because of the brominated flame-retardants usually incorporated into the plastics originating in WEEE. This paper examines catalytic pyrolysis of polymeric blends that consist of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), polycarbonate (PC) and polypropylene (PP), in the absence and presence of a brominated additive: tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), with a view to reducing the bromo-compounds formed during their pyrolysis, while favouring the production of valuable compounds, such as phenols. Five catalysts: Al2O3, Fe/Al2O3, MgO, Fe/MgO and ZSM-5 with different textural properties were evaluated for their performance during pyrolysis of the mentioned blends at 440 °C (peak degradation temperature). It was found that all catalysts promoted the production of phenolic compounds, which are valuable products that can be further used in chemical industries. Among all catalysts tested, the best one was considered to be Fe/Al2O3, since it led to larger amounts of phenols for all blends examined. As for their debromination efficiency, attention was given on the reduction of dibromophenol formed, due to the presence of TBBPA in the polymeric blends. Results showed that Fe/Al2O3 was the optimal catalyst since it led to bromine reduction greater than ∼75%. Fe/MgO was the second one leading to reduction greater than 60% and MgO led to an important reduction (greater than ∼55%).

Research Integrity and Hidden Value Conflicts

Research integrity is a well-established term used to talk and write about ethical issues in research. Part of its success might be its broad applicability. In this paper, we suggest that this might also be its Achilles heel, since it has the potential to conceal important value conflicts. We identify three broad domains upon which research integrity is applied in the literature: (1) the researcher (or research group), (2) research, and (3) research-related institutions and systems. Integrity in relation to researchers concerns character, although it remains to specify precisely what character traits are the desirable ones in this context and what values researchers should endorse. Integrity in relation to research concerns correct and sufficient description of the research process, data, results, and overall ‘research record’. Hence, it concerns the quality of research. However, whether or not this notion of research integrity covers all ethical aspects of research depends on whether one endorses a wider or a narrower interpretation of the ‘research process’. Integrity in relation to research-related institutions and systems leaves open whether they should be understood as agents in their own right or merely as means to research integrity. Besides the potential lack of clarity that our analysis reveals, we point to how this variety in uses might lead to concealment of value conflicts and propose an open discussion of central values.

Emerging agricultural expansion in northern regions: Insights from land-use research

Emerging agricultural expansion in northern regions: Insights from land-use research

Synthesis and Characteristics of Microencapsulated Decanol with TiO2 Shell as Composites for Cold Energy Storage

A novel microencapsulated phase change materials for cold energy storage was synthesised through sol-gel means using decanol as phase change material and titanium dioxide (TiO2) as encapsulated material. The micromorphology and composition of microcapsules were observed by field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), Fourier transformation infrared spectrometer (FT-IR).Using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) thermal properties of microcapsules were characterized. Results of FE-SEM and FT-IR indicated that micro sized decanol droplets were encapsulated with TiO2 to form the well-developed core-shell structure, which was only physical coating between them. Furthermore, the chemical and thermal stability of the microcapsules were improved and the inflammability of the microcapsules was lowered using TiO2 as shell material. The DSC result of the desirable ones melt at 3.87 ℃ with a latent melting enthalpy of 61.12 J·g-1 and solidified at – 1.32 ℃ with a latent solidification enthalpy of 59.54 J·g-1. In general, the prepared microcapsules have potential for cold energy storage.