bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronic Nose Sensor Drift Affects Diagnostic Reliability and Accuracy of Disease-Specific Algorithms
Authors: Bosch Sofie , de Menezes Renée X. , Pees Suzanne , Wintjens Dion J. , Seinen Margien , Bouma Gerd , Kuyvenhoven Johan , Stokkers Pieter C. F. , de Meij Tim G. J. , de Boer Nanne K. H.
Published: November 2022

Sensor drift is a well-known disadvantage of electronic nose (eNose) technology and may affect the accuracy of diagnostic algorithms. Correction for this phenomenon is not routinely performed. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of eNose sensor drift on the development of a disease-specific algorithm in a real-life cohort of inflammatory bowel disease patients (IBD). In this multi-center cohort, patients undergoing colonoscopy collected a fecal sample prior to bowel lavage. Mucosal disease activity was assessed based on endoscopy. Controls underwent colonoscopy for various reasons and had no endoscopic abnormalities. Fecal eNose profiles were measured using Cyranose 320®. Fecal samples of 63 IBD patients and 63 controls were measured on four subsequent days. Sensor data displayed associations with date of measurement, which was reproducible across all samples irrespective of disease state, disease activity state, disease localization and diet of participants. Based on logistic regression, corrections for sensor drift improved accuracy to differentiate between IBD patients and controls based on the significant differences of six sensors (p = 0.004; p < 0.001; p = 0.001; p = 0.028; p < 0.001 and p = 0.005) with an accuracy of 0.68. In this clinical study, short-term sensor drift affected fecal eNose profiles more profoundly than clinical features. These outcomes emphasize the importance of sensor drift correction to improve reliability and repeatability, both within and across eNose studies.
Properties of Gd-Doped Sol-Gel Silica Glass Radioluminescence under Electron Beams
Authors: Söderström Daniel , Timonen Oskari , Kettunen Heikki , Kronholm Risto , El Hamzaoui Hicham , Capoen Bruno , Ouerdane Youcef , Morana Adriana , Javanainen Arto , Bouwmans Géraud , Bouazaoui Mohamed , Girard Sylvain
Published: November 2022

The radiation-induced emission (RIE) of Gd3+-doped sol–gel silica glass has been shown to have suitable properties for use in the dosimetry of beams of ionizing radiation in applications such as radiotherapy. Linear electron accelerators are commonly used as clinical radiotherapy beams, and in this paper, the RIE properties were investigated under electron irradiation. A monochromator setup was used to investigate the light properties in selected narrow wavelength regions, and a spectrometer setup was used to measure the optical emission spectra in various test configurations. The RIE output as a function of depth in acrylic was measured and compared with a reference dosimeter system for various electron energies, since the dose–depth measuring abilities of dosimeters in radiotherapy is of key interest. The intensity of the main radiation-induced luminescence (RIL) of the Gd3+-ions at 314 nm was found to well represent the dose as a function of depth, and was possible to separate from the Cherenkov light that was also induced in the measurement setup. After an initial suppression of the luminescence following the electron bunch, which is ascribed to a transient radiation-induced attenuation from self-trapped excitons (STEX), the 314 nm component was found to have a decay time of approximately 1.3 ms. An additional luminescence was also observed in the region 400 nm to 600 nm originating from the decay of the STEX centers, likely exhibiting an increasing luminescence with a dose history in the tested sample.
Colon Cancer Diagnosis Based on Machine Learning and Deep Learning: Modalities and Analysis Techniques
Authors: Tharwat Mai , Sakr Nehal A. , El-Sappagh Shaker , Soliman Hassan , Kwak Kyung-Sup , Elmogy Mohammed
Published: November 2022

The treatment and diagnosis of colon cancer are considered to be social and economic challenges due to the high mortality rates. Every year, around the world, almost half a million people contract cancer, including colon cancer. Determining the grade of colon cancer mainly depends on analyzing the gland’s structure by tissue region, which has led to the existence of various tests for screening that can be utilized to investigate polyp images and colorectal cancer. This article presents a comprehensive survey on the diagnosis of colon cancer. This covers many aspects related to colon cancer, such as its symptoms and grades as well as the available imaging modalities (particularly, histopathology images used for analysis) in addition to common diagnosis systems. Furthermore, the most widely used datasets and performance evaluation metrics are discussed. We provide a comprehensive review of the current studies on colon cancer, classified into deep-learning (DL) and machine-learning (ML) techniques, and we identify their main strengths and limitations. These techniques provide extensive support for identifying the early stages of cancer that lead to early treatment of the disease and produce a lower mortality rate compared with the rate produced after symptoms develop. In addition, these methods can help to prevent colorectal cancer from progressing through the removal of pre-malignant polyps, which can be achieved using screening tests to make the disease easier to diagnose. Finally, the existing challenges and future research directions that open the way for future work in this field are presented.
Applied Study of the Fluidization Model of Logistics Transportation through the Prism of the Impact Generated on the Environment
Authors: Zadobrischi Eduard , Negru Mihai
Published: November 2022

A real problem of today’s society is the loss of human lives due to road accidents and the pollution caused by freight transport through metropolitan areas. The restrictions imposed in the near future for freight transport could reduce its efficiency and create many more problems. Using data centralization and developing applications or algorithms dedicated to the freight transportation sectors, routes and emissions can be managed much more efficiently. In this work, general aspects are presented, as well as a route optimization model for freight transport, taking into account the environmental impact, based on a heuristic algorithm, that of the ant colony (ACO). A multitude of studies has focused on what represents the benefits created by the applicability of solutions rather than on generalities and perspectives. The paper aims to highlight the usefulness of an optimization model of freight transport routes and the minimization of time and social costs. The study will show us that an optimized route for freight transport has a huge impact on costs, but also on time efficiency and polluting emissions.
Dual-Band Wearable MIMO Antenna for WiFi Sensing Applications
Authors: Noghanian Sima
Published: November 2022

Multiple input multiple output (MIMO) technology combined with orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) is an enabling technology used in WiFi 6/6E (IEEE 802.11ax) to increase the throughput. With the addition of WiFi 6/6E and taking advantage of MIMO and OFDMA, many applications of wearable WiFi can be imagined. For example, WiFi can be used for tracking and fall detection. Wearable devices, such as those used in gaming, vital sign monitoring, and tracking, can also take advantage of wearable MIMO antennas. In this paper, a wearable small dual-band antenna is proposed that can be fabricated on felt or denim substrate. In the proposed antenna, a conductive layer is used as a reflector to improve the gain and reduce the sensitivity of the antenna performance to the body loading effects. The details of the design and its performance in a sample indoor MIMO setting are provided. The MIMO antenna is proposed for WiFi tracking and sensing applications. The performance of the MIMO antenna in an indoor setting is examined.
Fractal Properties of Heart Rate Dynamics: A New Biomarker for Anesthesia—Biphasic Changes in General Anesthesia and Decrease in Spinal Anesthesia
Authors: Lan Jheng-Yan , Shieh Jiann-Shing , Yeh Jia-Rong , Fan Shou-Zen
Published: November 2022

Processed electroencephalogram (EEG) has been considered a useful tool for measuring the depth of anesthesia (DOA). However, because of its inability to detect the activities of the brain stem and spinal cord responsible for most of the vital signs, a new biomarker for measuring the multidimensional activities of the central nervous system under anesthesia is required. Detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) is a new technique for detecting the scaling properties of nonstationary heart rate (HR) behavior. This study investigated the changes in fractal properties of heart rate variability (HRV), a nonlinear analysis, under intravenous propofol, inhalational desflurane, and spinal anesthesia. We compared the DFA method with traditional spectral analysis to evaluate its potential as an alternative biomarker under different levels of anesthesia. Eighty patients receiving elective procedures were randomly allocated different anesthesia. HRV was measured with spectral analysis and DFA short-term (4–11 beats) scaling exponent (DFAα1). An increase in DFAα1 followed by a decrease at higher concentrations during propofol or desflurane anesthesia is observed. Spinal anesthesia decreased the DFAα1 and low-/high-frequency ratio (LF/HF ratio). DFAα1 of HRV is a sensitive and specific method for distinguishing changes from baseline to anesthesia state. The DFAα1 provides a potential real-time biomarker to measure HRV as one of the multiple dimensions of the DOA.
Modeling Real-Life Urban Sensor Networks Based on Open Data
Authors: Musznicki Bartosz , Piechowiak Maciej , Zwierzykowski Piotr
Published: November 2022

Epidemics and pandemics dramatically affect mobility trends around the world, which we have witnessed recently and expect more of in the future. A global energy crisis is looming ahead on the horizon and will redefine the transportation and energy usage patterns, in particular in large cities and metropolitan areas. As the trend continues to expand, the need to efficiently monitor and manage smart city infrastructure, public transportation, service vehicles, and commercial fleets has become of higher importance. This, in turn, requires new methods for dissemination, collection, and processing of data from massive number of already deployed sensing devices. In order to transmit these data efficiently, it is necessary to optimize the connection structure in wireless networks. Emerging open access to real data from different types of networked and sensing devices should be leveraged. It enables construction of models based on frequently updated real data rather than synthetic models or test environments. Hence, the main objective of this article is to introduce the concept of network modeling based on publicly available geographic location data of heterogeneous nodes and to promote the use of real-life diverse open data sources as the basis of novel research related to urban sensor networks. The feasibility of designed modeling architecture is discussed and proved with numerous examples of modeled spatial and spatiotemporal graphs, which are essential in opportunistic routing-related studies using the methods which rely on graph theory. This approach has not been considered before in similar studies and in the literature.
Identifying the Inertial Properties of a Padel Racket: An Experimental Maneuverability Proposal
Authors: Blanes Carlos , Correcher Antonio , Beltrán Pablo , Mellado Martin
Published: November 2022

Although the moment of inertia of padel rackets is one of their fundamental properties and of particular interest to the players, hardly any manufacturer specifies the parameter for its rackets. The present paper offers a solution to determine the moment of inertia around different axes of padel rackets and makes a standardized comparison possible. After a short overview of the physical background of the problem and the existing solutions for inertia testing, the developed concept for a test stand is described in detail. The approach uses the fact that a pendulum swings with its natural frequency, which depends directly on its moment of inertia. The inertia can be calculated by measuring the cycle time of the swing. Two different test stands, a trifilar and a swing pendulum, are designed to enable an oscillation of the rackets with different rotation axes, and an acceleration sensor is used to measure its natural frequency. A user-friendly interface acquires and processes accelerometer data providing inertial moments. A calibration model defines sensor accuracy. Precision is estimated by calculating the influence of the measurement errors and by testing the repeatability. The maneuverability parameter is created, and in the last step, various rackets are evaluated to create a database with the main properties. As a result of the study of the racket population, a maneuverability parameter is proposed to classify the rackets in a comprehensible way for users. The classification method is tested with users to explore the matching between the scientific classification and the player’s feelings. The results are shown and explained.
“Polish People Are Starting to Hate Polish People”—Uncovering Emergent Patterns of Electoral Hostility in Post-Communist Europe
Authors: Neyra Anne-Sophie
Published: November 2022

Like many societies, Poland seems to be increasingly split by the negative feelings many of its citizens feel towards one another because of the ways in which they vote. This phenomenon is known as electoral hostility. This paper sheds light on what it entails in political and psychological terms. A unique feature of this research is its methodological approach, combining family focus groups and individual interviews of up to 70 participants. This enables us to uncover critical insights into the perceptions and experiences of first-time voters and their families. It informs us of Poland’s fractious and emotional political atmosphere, but also on the way in which electoral hostility shapes lives in Poland. The findings highlight the importance of mirror perceptions (the perception that others’ hatred justifies our own) in shaping electoral hostility as an emotional sequence which makes many voters progressively see their emotions towards opposite voters deteriorate from misunderstanding to frustration, anger, disgust, and ultimately hatred. Finally, the analysis foregrounds the ways in which Polish voters adapt their behavior in accordance with their own preconceived notions of hostility. These preconceptions can manifest themselves via three possible routes: (1) avoidance, (2) aggression, and (3) a sense of doom, deterioration, and hopelessness.
Research on Spiral Tunnel Exit Speed Prediction Model Based on Driver Characteristics
Authors: Xu Xiaoling , Kang Xuejian , Wang Xiaoping , Zhao Shuai , Si Chundi
Published: November 2022

The “white hole effect” alters the driving environment during a tunnel’s exit phase, making it more difficult and uncertain for drivers to access information and control their behavior, thereby endangering traffic safety. Consequently, the driving risk at the exit of a long spiral tunnel served as the subject of this study, and the Jinjiazhuang spiral tunnel served as the object of the natural vehicle driving experiment. Following the theory of a non-linear autoregressive dynamic neural network, a vehicle speed prediction model based on driver characteristics was developed for the exit phase of the tunnel, taking driver expectations and behavioral changes into account. It also classifies the driver’s behavior during the tunnel’s exit phase to assess the risk posed by the driver’s behavior during the tunnel’s exit phase and determine a dynamic and safe comfort speed. The study’s results indicate that the driver’s behavioral load changed significantly as the vehicle approached the tunnel exit. At the exit of the spiral tunnel, the vehicle’s actual speed was 71 km/h, which is below the speed limit of 80 km/h. This demonstrates that the expected change in the driver’s behavior in the tunnel exit phase was substantial. Therefore, setting the emotional safety and comfort speed so that the driver maintains a smooth comfort level in the tunnel exit phase can reduce the tunnel exit driving risk. The results of this study provide a benchmark for tunnel traffic safety and lay the groundwork for further development of vehicle risk warning settings for the tunnel’s exit phase.
Building Stronger Brand Evangelism for Sustainable Marketing through Micro-Influencer-Generated Content on Instagram in the Fashion Industry
Authors: Rungruangjit Warinrampai , Charoenpornpanichkul Kitti
Published: November 2022

Micro-influencers have become powerful sources of information for consumers in the digital age. Marketers have strategically collaborated with micro-influencers as brand endorsers to generate valuable content, which attract the consumers and encourage them to engage with micro-influencers, leading to brand evangelism. This reflects the sustainable consumer-brand relationships. In Southeast Asia, Instagram stands out as the preferred choice for fashion influencers for sharing product information and boosting consumer engagement. The current study is the first one incorporating literature-based frameworks, consisting of consumer-based digital content marketing, information relevance theory, observational learning theory, consumer-influencer engagement behavior, and brand evangelism, into a unified framework to deal with the research gaps. The quantitative method was applied through using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The SmartPLS v. 3.3.9 software application was applied to explore the proposed model. The data were acquired from 499 Thai consumers who have followed and engaged the content with fashion micro-influencers on Instagram. The results revealed that the positive effect of topicality of content is the strongest antecedent that motivates consumer-influencer engagement, while novelty, understandability, reliability, interestingness, and influencers’ authenticity of content also have a positive influence on consumer-influencer engagement. Finally, the findings showed that consumer-influencer engagement have vital effects on brand evangelism.
Analysis of MOOC Quality Requirements for Landscape Architecture Based on the KANO Model in the Context of the COVID-19 Epidemic
Authors: Qiao Lifang , Zhang Yichuan
Published: November 2022

COVID-19 has had a severe impact on higher education worldwide, and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have become the best solution to reduce the impact of the COVID-19 on student learning. In order to improve the quality of MOOCs for Landscape Architecture, it is essential to fully understand the psychological needs of students learning online. A total of 119 undergraduates and postgraduates majoring in landscape architecture were selected as the research subjects, and 18 indicators falling into 5 functions, including course organization, course resources, learning environment, learning experience, and learning support were screened. Questionnaires based on the KANO model were prepared at wjx.cn for investigation through WeChat. Attributes were classified according to the traditional KANO model and the KANO model based on Better-Worse coefficients. The research showed that based on the classification results of the traditional KANO model, 17 of the 18 indicators were of the attractive quality factor and the rest were of the must-be quality factor. After reclassification using the KANO model based on Better-Worse coefficients, 4 of the 18 indicators were must-be quality factors, 6 were one-dimensional quality factors, 4 were attractive quality factors, and the rest 4 were indifferent quality factors. Compared to the traditional KANO model, the KANO model based on Better-Worse coefficients has better quality element classification discrimination. According to the KANO-based analysis, appropriate strategies for indicators shall be adopted for MOOC development according to the four types of quality requirements. The research can provide a basis for the development and optimization of MOOCs for landscape architecture so as to better meet the learning needs of students and achieve better learning effects.
Statistical Analysis of Major and Extra Serious Traffic Accidents on Chinese Expressways from 2011 to 2021
Authors: Wei Xiangyu , Tian Shixiang , Dai Zhangyin , Li Peng
Published: November 2022

In order to explore the law of major and extra serious traffic accidents on expressways in China, a total of 802 cases of major and extra serious traffic accidents on expressways in the past 10 years were collected, and statistical analysis was conducted from the aspects of time distribution, spatial distribution, accident form, and accident cause. The results show that in the past 10 years, the incidence and casualties of major and extra-serious traffic accidents on expressways have shown a fluctuating downward trend. In January, May, August, and November every year, between 6: 00 and 8: 00 every day is the highest incidence of accidents. The Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Heilongjiang Province, Fujian Province, and Anhui Province have more accidents. Vehicle collisions have the highest number of deaths, and rollover injuries have the highest rate. Human factors accounted for 72.1% of the causes of accidents, among which improper measures and speeding accounted for the largest proportion. Finally, according to the results of data statistical analysis, the corresponding control measures should be put forward in order to provide reference and technical support for the current highway traffic safety situation and safety management policy.
Design of Sustainable Asphalt Mixtures for Bike Lanes Using RAP and Ceramic Waste as Substitutes for Natural Aggregates
Authors: Llopis-Castelló David , Alonso-Troyano Carlos , Álvarez-Troncoso Pablo , Marzá-Beltrán Aida , García Alfredo
Published: November 2022

The European Union is promoting a circular economy in which waste management plays an essential role. Although many studies focusing on the use of recycled materials in the manufacture of asphalt mixtures for roads have been developed, studies related to the use of recycled materials for the construction of bike lanes are scarce. In this context, the main objective of this research is to explore the behaviour of asphalt mixtures with high replacement rates of recycled materials—reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and ceramic waste—by natural aggregates for the construction of bike lanes. A total of six types of asphalt mixtures were designed by combining the content of the recycled materials and natural aggregates, with replacement rates ranging from 50% to 100%. The asphalt mixtures were characterized by determining the bulk and maximum density; the void content in the mixture; and the aggregate, stability, and deformation. In conclusion, the mixture C50R50, which consists of a full replacement of natural fine and coarse aggregates by 50% ceramic waste aggregate and 50% RAP, is proposed as the most appropriate sustainable solution. In this way, the use of this asphalt mixture allows for boosting the use of recycled aggregates as well as minimizing the consumption of virgin bitumen due to its residual bitumen content. Compared to the reference asphalt mixture consisting of 100% of natural aggregates, C50R50 is a more open mixture, with higher void content and somewhat more brittleness. Even so, the mixture C50R50 could be good enough for use in low traffic roads.
Essential Oil Composition of Aerial Part of Pluchea ovalis (Pers.) DC., Silver Nanoparticles Synthesis, and Larvicidal Activities against Fall Armyworm
Authors: Gonfa Yilma Hunde , Tessema Fekade Beshah , Bachheti Archana , Tadesse Mesfin Getachew , Eid Ebrahem M. , Abou Fayssal Sami , Adelodun Bashir , Choi Kyung Sook , Širić Ivan , Kumar Pankaj , Bachheti Rakesh Kumar
Published: November 2022

In this study, essential oil of the aerial part of Pluchea ovalis (POEO) was isolated and employed for the synthesis of AgNPs (POEO-AgNPs). Then, larvicidal activities of POEO and PEO-AgNPs were evaluated against the larvae of fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiderda (J. E. Smith); (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). The potential medicinal values of P. ovalis and the lack of scientific reports on the applications of essential oils and nanoparticles of the plant species from the ecology of Ethiopia motivated the authors to carry out this research activity. The hydrodistillation technique was used for the isolation of POEO. Characterization of samples was done using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and zeta nanoanalyzer instruments. GC/MS analysis showed that sesquiterpenes (91.27%) are the dominant chemical constituents of POEO. The characteristic UV–Vis spectra absorption of POEO-AgNPs is observed at 428 nm. SEM imaging reveals that POEO-AgNPs have a dominantly spherical shape. A strong peak of EDX at 3.0 keV shows the existence of Ag element in POEO-AgNPs. XRD analysis determines the diffraction peaks of POEO-AgNPs at 2θ of 38.2°, 44.1°, 64.6°, and 77.8° which are indexed to (111), (200), (220), and (311), respectively. The average particle size and surface potential of POEO-AgNPs are 132 nm and −64.7 mV, respectively. POEO-AgNPs were stored at room temperature and 4 °C and showed good stability for about 6 months without aggregation or dissolution. The larvicidal activity was tested at 500, 250, and 125 µg/mL of POEO solution and 100% (full strength = 0.083 g/mL), 50%, and 25% POEO-AgNPs solution against 2nd instar larvae of S. frugiderda for 3 consecutive days. LC50 and LC90 are determined as 154.88 and 11,749.00 µg/mL for POEO and 69.18 and 1318.26% for POEO-AgNPs solutions, respectively. This finding will benefit the applications of POEO and POEO-AgNPs for a sustainable eco-friendly crop pest management method.
Exploring the Development of Student Teachers’ Knowledge Construction in Peer Assessment: A Quantitative Ethnography
Authors: Liu Yingchun , Ni Zhuojing , Zha Shimin , Zhang Zhen
Published: November 2022

Peer assessment (PA) is a formative assessment tool that can effectively monitor the development process of knowledge construction. In comment-based PA, comments contain the evidence of how the assessors construct knowledge to conduct professional assessments, which initiates a research perspective to explore the dynamic knowledge construction of the assessors. Quantitative ethnography is both a method for the quantitative analysis of qualitative data and a technique for the network modelling of professional competencies, providing a new way of thinking about the analysis and evaluation of knowledge construction processes. In this paper, quantitative ethnography was used to mine the comments generated from comment-based PA activities to reveal the characteristics of student teachers’ knowledge construction and the developmental trajectories of knowledge structure at different learning stages. The experimental results show that the student teachers’ knowledge structures and knowledge levels evolve in the PA environment, and the cognitive network gradually tends to become more complex and balanced. The student teachers showed stage and gender differences in the level of knowledge progression during the learning process. The second PA was a turning point in knowledge progression. The knowledge structures of the male and female groups are biased towards different kinds of knowledge elements.
Selecting Priority Policy Strategies for Sustainability of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Takalar Regency
Authors: Syamsari Syamsari , Ramaditya Muhammad , Andriani Irma , Puspitasari Ayu
Published: November 2022

The current study aims to develop a strategic policy for the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) resilience system to deal with disruption during uncertainty and maintain sustainability. Previous studies stated that the MSMEs mortality rate was high, specifically in the first five years. This was caused by various internal weaknesses and the inability to deal with disruption amid uncertainty. The enterprises need government intervention to strengthen their resilience. Therefore, this study aimed to design a government policy model for a resilience system that connects actors, factors, goals, and alternative strategies during uncertainty. Since disruptions are complex, a holistic approach comprising resource theory, entrepreneurial orientation, corporate entrepreneurship, and entrepreneurship ecosystem was used. The method used is the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process, involving 20 experts as respondents. The results showed that certain factors, actors, goals, and strategies must be prioritized in formulating a policy strategy for the sustainability system in Takalar Regency, Indonesia. The main factor is entrepreneurial orientation, while the actor is highly resilient MSMEs. Additionally, the goal is for the market to accept products, while innovative transformation is the alternative priority strategy to be implemented.
The Material Flow and Stability Performance of the Anaerobic Digestion of Pig Manure after (Hyper)-Thermophilic Hydrolysis Is Introduced: A Comparison with a Single-Stage Process
Authors: Lin Min , Wang Aijie , Qiao Wei , Wandera Simon M. , Zhang Jiahao , Dong Renjie
Published: November 2022

Slow hydrolysis persistently affects the anaerobic digestion of animal manure. Thermophilic and hyper-thermophilic treatments introduced into a two-stage anaerobic process treating pig manure were investigated, with a single-stage mesophilic process as a control. The results from the 100-day experiment showed the thermophilic-mesophilic system had the highest removal efficiency of volatile solids at 60.8%, 18% higher than the single-stage process. The thermophilic and hyper-thermophilic hydrolysis reactors contributed 23.5% and 21.7% solubilization of chemical oxygen demand (COD), respectively. The hydrolysis efficiency achieved in the single process was 49.7%, which was lower than the hydrolysis in the two-stage processes. Approximately 60% of COD was distributed in the solid fraction in the first stage, and more than half of the particle COD continued to hydrolyze in the subsequent second stage. The mass balance of COD and volatile solids removal performance illustrated the advantages of the temperature-phased process. Comparatively, the three mesophilic reactors all had strong stability.
Analysis of Thermal Comfort under Different Exercise Modes in Winter in Universities in Severe Cold Regions
Authors: Qiao Liang , Yan Xinling
Published: November 2022

In this study, we collected 927 cases of samples from students at the Harbin Institute of Technology, China and conducted a thermal comfort questionnaire survey on four outdoor exercise modes in winter. Additionally, we analyzed the thermal perception conditions of the campus population in winter, the association between exercise volume and TCV (Thermal Comfort Vote) and the correlation between PET (physiological equivalent temperature) and MTSV (Mean Thermal Sensation Vote). Furthermore, we identified different PET neutral temperatures under different exercise modes (skating 3 °C, running 6 °C, hiking 9 °C, standing 14 °C), the variability of different thermal comforts in the original residence and the trend of thermal comfort with outdoor activity time. Finally, we obtained the prediction model of thermal perception under different exercise modes, and it can used as a basis for assessing the cold outdoor thermal environment to provide some references for environmental designers.
Impact of a Thermal Barrier Coating in Low Heat Rejection Environment Area of a Diesel Engine
Authors: Vijay Kumar Megavath , Srinivas Reddy Thumu , Rami Reddy Ch. , Rami Reddy S. Venkata , Alsharef Mohammad , Alharbi Yasser , Alamri Basem
Published: November 2022

The most recent developments in Thermal Barrier Coating (TBC) relate to engine performance, manufacturing and other related challenges. TBC on the piston crown and valves to enhance engine characteristics while using diesel and Mahua Methyl Ester (MME) as a petroleum fuel has a great sustainable development. For this utility, a Direct Injection (DI) conventional diesel engine was renewed to an LHR engine by applying 0.5 mm thickness of 3Al2O3-2SiO2 (as TBC) onto the piston crown and valves. The MME is used in the LHR (Low Heat Rejection) engine. For examination, the fuel injector pressure is set at 200 bar. Compared to a standard DI diesel engine, the results demonstrate that the application of TBC boosts brake thermal efficiency to 13.65% at 25% load. The LHR engine’s SFC and BTE significantly improved at full load while using MME fuel. The lower temperature of exhaust gases is achieved by combining MME and diesel fuels with TBC. It was observed that both MME with and without TBC significantly reduced the smoke density. In addition, it was exposed that using MME fuel with TBC very slightly reduced carbon monoxide emissions under all loads. It was also shown that MME with TBC significantly reduced environmental hydrocarbon emissions at all loads.
Social Dimensions in Ex-Post Evaluation of Public Private Partnership Infrastructure Projects: A Scoping Review
Authors: Sukasuka Grace Namayombo , Musonda Innocent , Ramabodu Molusiwa Stephan , Zulu Sambo Lyson
Published: November 2022

Although public private partnerships (PPPs) have been in existence for decades as a procurement tool for infrastructure projects, a dearth of studies on ex-post evaluation of Public Private Partnership Infrastructure Projects (PPPIPs) exists globally. Additionally, the contribution of scholars to the inclusion of social dimensions in ex-post evaluations is not fully known. Due to the existing gap, this study aimed at identifying and mapping the literature on the ex-post evaluation of PPPIPs and reviewed its contribution to the assessment of social impacts through the inclusion of social dimensions. The Arkesy and O’Malley five-stage framework was used to conduct a scoping review grounded in 27 articles focusing on the ex-post evaluation of PPPIPs. The selection of articles for review used the PRISMA framework and data were analysed through content analysis. The key findings revealed that mutual relationships existed among the theoretical foundation of the review, the themes, and identified social dimensions. Additionally, diversity was seen in the needs and interests of stakeholders, and finally, the low research output in the ex-post evaluation of PPPIPs was observed. A huge research potential has been revealed with specific focus on the social dimension of the triple bottom line concept of sustainable development to achieve PPPIPs’ social sustainability.
Effect of a Taper Intake Port on the Combustion Characteristics of a Small-Scale Rotary Engine
Authors: Zou Run , Zhang Yi , Liu Jinxiang , Yang Wei , Zhang Yangang , Li Feng , Shi Cheng
Published: November 2022

Taper intake ports are effective in improving the charging efficiency of small-scale rotary engines (REs), but it is unclear how their structural parameters affect the in-cylinder flow field and combustion characteristics. For this reason, the effects of the diameter-length ratio (D/L) of an intake port on the in-cylinder flow field and combustion characteristics of a small-scale RE were numerically investigated by utilizing a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. The results showed that the in-cylinder pressure of the RE did not follow a simple single-directional trend with the D/L of the intake port, but it was divided into three levels, where the peak in-cylinder pressure was at its maximum at the D/L of 0.6 and at its minimum at the D/L of 0.8. The gas flows in the intake port with different values of the D/L were all unidirectional, and they made a difference in the vortexes formed on the leading side of the combustion chamber of the RE, which was the main factor affecting the in-cylinder combustion performance. The vortexes formed on the leading side of the combustion chamber with D/L = 0.6 were maintained for a long period of time, thus promoting the propagation of flame and advancing the center of gravity of combustion. So, the heat release rate and combustion efficiency in the cylinder were increased at the price of a larger increment in nitrogen oxide formation.
Bibliometric Review of Magnetorheological Materials
Authors: Ubaidillah U , Lenggana Bhre Wangsa , Choi Seung-Bok
Published: November 2022

The findings and technological developments related to intelligent materials are increasingly attracting the attention of scientists. One such field is that of magnetorheological (MR) materials. Scientific studies on MR materials have been carried out to determine the performance and characteristics of, for example, MR dampers, MR elastomers, and MR foams. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there has been no statistical discussion in the form of bibliometric analyses of developments in the field of MR materials in the last ten years. This is fascinating, considering that bibliometric studies have considerable impacts and contributions, such as studies on the growth of research patterns, avoiding the repetition of research topics, and analyzing future research. This also supports the future sustainability of the topic of MR materials, helping to bridge the gap that has probably existed since the introduction of MR materials. The relationship between the authors’ scientific research, domestic and global collaborations, and the evolution of themes over the last few years is also shown in this analysis. Thus, this study aimed to fill the gap in such materials by conducting a bibliometric analysis of 1830 articles related to MR materials published over the last 10 years. The results indicated that the field of MR materials has exhibited good growth. The introduction of MR fluid materials to new types of MR materials is still in the early stages of research, such as in applications with MR foam. Further analysis showed that there is a connection and dominance of scientific publications related to MR technology. Furthermore, based on bibliometric analysis, dominant theme changes in the area of MR elastomers, particularly related to carbonyl iron particles and MR polishing, is seldom mentioned, as is also the case for MR gels, MR foam, and MR grease. However, the discussion of new MR materials is a good opportunity to promote developments in the field of MR materials.
An Evaluation of Chinese Rapeseed Production Efficiency Based on Three-Stage DEA and Malmquist Index
Authors: Li Qing , Wang Cong
Published: November 2022

As a widely grown oil crop in China, rapeseed accounts for 38.6% of China’s total oil crop production. In order to ensure the sustainable and healthy development of the rapeseed industry, this essay uses the input-output panel data of 15 central rapeseed-producing provinces (cities) in China from 2011 to 2019. The reasons for the change of the index were further studied using three-stage data envelopment analysis (DEA) and the Malmquist method. The three-stage DEA results show that the scale efficiency of rapeseed production increases in other provinces, except in Qinghai Province and Gansu Province, and that scale efficiency can be improved through additional investment. Planting enterprises can improve their efficiency by improving the efficiency of scientific and technological progress. On the other hand, government expenditure has a positive impact on rapeseed production efficiency. The Malmquist index shows that the technical progress efficiency index has the most significant impact during this period and the rapeseed total factor productivity can be improved by improving technological progress efficiency. In addition, according to the measured results, corresponding suggestions are put forward.
Assessment of Sustainable World Heritage Areas in Saudi Arabia Based on Climate Change Impacts on Vulnerability Using RS and GIS
Authors: Ramadan Rasha H. , Ramadan Mona S. , Alkadi Ibtesam I. , Alogayell Haya M. , Ismail Ismail Y. , Khairy Nesren
Published: November 2022

Heritage is considered a pillar of civilized cultural identity and an important income resource. Climate change is one of the main threats to cultural heritage as fragile buildings are highly vulnerable to its impacts, as a result, many world heritage sites, unfortunately, have been lost. This study used Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to develop risk maps that determine spatial environmental changes regarding climatic parameters. The study used satellite images to analyze changes over 20 years for three climatic factors: temperature, humidity, and precipitation patterns. The average rate of change for each indicator was developed by comparing each month over 20 years. Three sub-models classifying changes for the selected factors were created, while the climatology model integrated the three sub-models with equal weights to assess the most vulnerable World Heritage sites. The vulnerable sites were classified into five categories, from less risk to the riskier. The study showed that most of Saudi’s Heritage sites are in the moderate-risk area. The study achieved the sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 and SDG 13. This paper supports decision-makers to preserve heritage sustainably and to create proactive plans for it.
Control Strategy of Doubly-Fed Induction Generator under Zero Voltage Fault of Power Grid
Authors: Ye Yi , Yang Zelin , Hu Jiawei , Yi Haopeng , Zhang Lu
Published: November 2022

For improving the zero-voltage ride through the capability of a doubly fed induction generator in high proportion new energy grid in extreme faults, a coordinated control scheme of hardware and optimal control strategy is proposed. A high-temperature superconductive-fault current limiter suppresses stator fault current, adaptive virtual impedance control and active dynamic reactive power support control act on the back-to-back converter of wind turbines as optimal control strategies. Optimizing the control strategy without changing the controller structure is beneficial to engineering implementation. After mathematical derivation and simulation verification, the coordinated control strategy adopted in this paper can effectively avoid the rotor current and voltage exceeding the limit when the wind turbine is facing extreme faults, actively provide reactive power support for the busbar, realize zero voltage ride through and reduce the risk of high voltage failure at the point of failure. The control effect is obviously better than the traditional virtual impedance control.
Optimization Method of Combined Multi-Mode Bus Scheduling under Unbalanced Conditions
Authors: Li Dalong , Liu Benxing , Jiao Fangtong , Song Ziwen , Zhao Pengsheng , Wang Xiaoqing , Sun Feng
Published: November 2022

In view of the spatial and temporal imbalance of residents’ travel demands and challenges of optimal bus capacity allocation, in this paper the grand station express bus scheduling mode is introduced in the direction of heavy passenger flow during peak hours. Coordinated scheduling combining whole-journey and grand station express buses is adopted, and the station correlation calculation model is used to determine the optimal stops of the grand station express bus. Thus, a two-way bus scheduling optimization model for peak passenger flow is established with the goal of minimizing the total cost of passenger travel and enterprise operation. Finally, the nonlinear inertia weight dynamic cuckoo search algorithm is selected for the model’s solution, and the established scheduling optimization model is solved by combining basic data such as the study line’s bus Integrated Circuit (IC) card data. The effectiveness of the model is verified through a comparative study and evaluation of the solution.
Factorial Design with Simulation for the Optimization of the Level of Service in the Platform-Train Interface of Metro Stations—A Pilot Study
Authors: Kulczewski Matias , Wilson Andres , Seriani Sebastian , Fujiyama Taku
Published: November 2022

Metro stations are considered complex areas of pedestrian mobility due to the increasing congestion, due to the a high level of demand of different circulation spaces. Given this situation and the limited physical spaces remaining to develop transport systems in urban areas, railways acquire greater relevance given the need to mobilize pedestrians. Within the stations, the most problematic area is the platform-train interface (PTI) due to the high number of interactions between passengers boarding and alighting. The objective of this study is to identify the PTI configuration that maximizes the level of service for passengers, safeguards the operational continuity of the system and improves user experience by reducing dissatisfaction and delay times. For this, a pedestrian microsimulation model is used in order to recreate the reality of a generic metro station and its different scenarios given the combinations of two factors: the platform configurations (topology) and the traffic control elements. Subsequently, these scenarios are analyzed through a factorial design, looking for the situation that optimizes the combination of metrics chosen in a weighted way. Finally, it is found that the PTI configuration that maximizes the level of service for users is the mixed station with signaling. It is this which includes the factors with the greatest positive effect on the chosen metrics.
Proximities and Logics of Sustainable Development of the Territorial Resource: The Case of the Localised Agro-Food System of Kalâat M’gouna in Morocco
Authors: Zahidi Mohamed , Ayegou Jamila , Ait Hou Mohamed
Published: November 2022

Sustainable agriculture is fundamental to strengthening the resilience of rural communities to climate risks. This article aims to integrate traditional and scientific knowledge by identifying the types of proximity and the modes of valorisation of the territorial resource “rose” activated by the territorial actors of a localised agri-food system (LAFS), specialised in the production and processing of fresh rose in Kalâat M’gouna (K-M), Province of Tinghir in Morocco. The objective is to show to what extent the logics of proximity activated allow for the inclusion/understanding of the mechanisms of resource valorisation implemented by the actors. In other words, we seek to see whether the activation of several types of interaction between actors can promote the emergence of new modes of valuing the rose resource. This will be done by analysing the level of valorisation of the “rose” resource by the actors of this system while proposing tracks of improvement to take part in the sustainable development of this traditional system through its orientation towards the cognitive and innovative aspects. Our methodology is based mainly on a case study of a localised agri-food system (LAFS) using a set of semi-directive interviews conducted with 47 different actors of the system. Thus, we relied on SPSS software to study the possible correlations between the types of proximities existing and the modes of resource valuation activated. In terms of results, we were able to verify the domination of traditional proximities (geographical, organisational, relational, etc.) at the level of interactions between actors. On the other hand, there is a kind of insufficiency of the relations which are based on the knowledge and the (cognitive) knowledge.