Wichita State University

About: Wichita State University is a education organization based out in Wichita, Kansas, United States. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Poison control. The organization has 4988 authors who have published 9563 publications receiving 253824 citations. The organization is also known as: WSU & Fairmount College.

A stochastic multi-criteria decision analysis for sustainable biomass crop selection

Abstract: We propose a stochastic analytical hierarchy process (SAHP) method.Sustainable biomass crop selection has economic, environmental, and social dimensions.Switchgrass is found to be the most sustainable crop type for biofuel production.Wheat and corn get high scores if economic factor is emphasized in decision making.The proposed SAHP model can utilize imprecise expert opinions in decision making. Selecting the most sustainable biomass crop type for biofuel production is a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem involving various conflicting criteria. In this paper, we propose a unique stochastic analytical hierarchy process (AHP) that can handle uncertain information and identify weights of criteria in the MCDM problem. By utilizing the beta distribution and approximating its median, we convert various types of expert evaluations including imprecise values into crisp values. We ensure consistency in each evaluation matrix before aggregating expert judgments. We then demonstrate use of the model by applying it to sustainable biomass crop selection. In order to define a comprehensive list of the selection criteria, we utilize the existing literature and opinions of experts including farmers, government specialists from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and faculty members in the areas of biomass and bioenergy. The evaluation model includes three main sustainability criteria defined as economic, environmental, and social aspects associated with a total of 16 sub-criteria. We apply the proposed model to biomass alternatives including switchgrass, Miscanthus, sugarcane, corn, and wheat in Kansas. Results show the weights of economic, environmental, and social aspects to be 0.59, 0.26, and 0.15, respectively. The sensitivity analysis indicates that the score of switchgrass increases if environmental criteria are emphasized. On the other hand, wheat and corn become more favorable than other alternatives if priority is given to economic factors. The most sustainable biomass sources in different regions can be determined by applying the presented selection hierarchy. The proposed stochastic AHP methodology can also be utilized for other complex multi-criteria decision-making problems with uncertain information and multiple stakeholders.

Dynamic behaviour of planar rigid multi-body systems including revolute joints with clearance

Abstract: This paper deals with a general methodology to assess the influence of the clearance size and the friction coefficient on the dynamic response of planar rigid multi-body systems including revolute joints with clearance. When there is a clearance in a revolute joint, impacts between the journal and the bearing can occur, and consequently, local deformations take place. The impact is internal and the response of the system is performed using a continuous contact force model. The friction effect because of the contact between joint elements is also included. The dynamic response of the systems is obtained numerically by solving the constraint equations and the contact-impact forces produced in the clearance joint, simultaneously with the differential equations of motion and a set of initial conditions. Numerical results for two simple mechanisms with revolute clearance joints are presented and discussed. In the present work, the clearance size and friction effects are analysed separately. Through the...

The Paradox of Priority

Abstract: The ubiquity of bank seniority is now a widely accepted fact in the academic literature. At the same time, trade creditors are sometimes granted a purchase money security interest in the materials or equipment they provide the firm. These two conflicting facts present a puzzle: Why would banks willingly give up a valuable priority claim on the firm, but only with respect to a subset of the firm's assets; We propose a resolution to this paradox of priority by arguing that trade creditors are better able to liquidate the materials they supply to a firm. When trade creditors have a security interest in these assets, their claims are state-contingent, and therefore dependent on the value of the assets pledged as collateral. Surprisingly, this ability of trade creditors to more efficiently liquidate the materials they supply to a firm also makes it desirable to subordinate the non-collateralized portion of their claims. Doing so increases the face value of a trade creditor's claim for a given level of borrowing, thereby increasing the "liquidation bang" from each trade credit buck. This combined priority structure maximizes social welfare by reducing the firm's overall cost of funding.

GuideBeacon: Beacon-based indoor wayfinding for the blind, visually impaired, and disoriented

Abstract: There are currently few options for navigational aids for the blind and visually impaired (BVI) in large indoor spaces. Such indoor spaces can be difficult to navigate even for the general sighted population if they are disoriented due to unfamiliarity or other reasons. This paper presents an indoor wayfinding system called GuideBeacon for the blind, visually impaired, and disoriented (BVID) that assists people in navigating between any two points within indoor environments. The GuideBeacon system allows users equipped with smartphones to interact with low cost Bluetooth-based beacons deployed strategically within the indoor space of interest to navigate their surroundings. This paper describes the technical challenges faced in designing such a system, the design decisions made in building the current version of the GuideBeacon system, the solutions developed to meet the technical challenges, and results from the evaluation of the system. Results presented in this paper obtained from field testing GuideBeacon with BVI and sighted participants suggests that it can be used by the BVID for navigation in large indoor spaces independently and effectively.

The Aging of the World's Population and Its Effects on Global Business

Abstract: The rapid aging of the world's population will bring unprecedented and important changes in the global economic environment, creating unique challenges and opportunities for businesses worldwide. These challenges and opportunities span multiple business areas, including strategy, human resources, cross-cultural management, and marketing, while operating simultaneously at the functional, corporate, and public policy levels nationally and internationally. In this paper, we first present an overview of the aging situation globally and the challenges that result from it. Then we explain some of the reasons behind demographic shifts in different countries, and how a graying population affects macroeconomic systems. Finally, we analyze the implications for businesses, in terms of both opportunities and challenges, and provide insights on how businesses can cope with these changes. We explain our findings through several themes that emerge from our research and discuss their implications for global businesses.