bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Optimal Strain Gauge Layout Design for the Measurement of Truss Structures
Authors: Kyung JungHyun , Eun Hee-Chang
Published: March 2023

Sensor measurements diagnose and evaluate the structural health state. A sensor configuration with a limited number of sensors must be designed to monitor sufficient information about the structural health state. The diagnosis of a truss structure composed of axial members can begin with a measurement by the strain gauges attached to the truss members or by the accelerometers and displacement sensors at the nodes. This study considered the layout design of the displacement sensors at the nodes for the truss structure by using the effective independence (EI) method based on the mode shapes. The validity of the optimal sensor placement (OSP) methods depending on their synthesis with the Guyan method was investigated by the mode shape’s data expansion. The Guyan reduction technique rarely affected the final sensor design. A modified EI algorithm based on the strain mode shape of the truss members was presented. A numerical example was analyzed, showing that the sensor placements were affected depending on the displacement sensors and strain gauges. Numerical examples illustrated that the strain-based EI method without the Guyan reduction method has the advantage of reducing the number of sensors and providing more data related with the displacements at the nodes. The measurement sensor should be selected when considering structural behavior, as it is crucial.
Security Evaluation of Arduino Projects Developed by Hobbyist IoT Programmers
Authors: Corno Fulvio , Mannella Luca
Published: March 2023

Arduino is an open-source electronics platform based on cheap hardware and the easy-to-use software Integrated Development Environment (IDE). Nowadays, because of its open-source nature and its simple and accessible user experience, Arduino is ubiquitous and used among hobbyist and novice programmers for Do It Yourself (DIY) projects, especially in the Internet of Things (IoT) domain. Unfortunately, such diffusion comes with a price. Many developers start working on this platform without having a deep knowledge of the leading security concepts in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Their applications, often publicly available on GitHub (or other code-sharing platforms), can be taken as examples by other developers or downloaded and used by non-expert users, spreading these issues in other projects. For these reasons, this paper aims at understanding the current landscape by analyzing a set of open-source DIY IoT projects and looking for potential security issues. Furthermore, the paper classifies those issues according to the proper security category. This study’s results offer a deeper understanding of the security concerns in Arduino projects created by hobbyist programmers and the dangers that may be faced by those who use these projects.
Deep Learning Derived Object Detection and Tracking Technology Based on Sensor Fusion of Millimeter-Wave Radar/Video and Its Application on Embedded Systems
Authors: Lin Jia-Jheng , Guo Jiun-In , Shivanna Vinay Malligere , Chang Ssu-Yuan
Published: March 2023

This paper proposes a deep learning-based mmWave radar and RGB camera sensor early fusion method for object detection and tracking and its embedded system realization for ADAS applications. The proposed system can be used not only in ADAS systems but also to be applied to smart Road Side Units (RSU) in transportation systems to monitor real-time traffic flow and warn road users of probable dangerous situations. As the signals of mmWave radar are less affected by bad weather and lighting such as cloudy, sunny, snowy, night-light, and rainy days, it can work efficiently in both normal and adverse conditions. Compared to using an RGB camera alone for object detection and tracking, the early fusion of the mmWave radar and RGB camera technology can make up for the poor performance of the RGB camera when it fails due to bad weather and/or lighting conditions. The proposed method combines the features of radar and RGB cameras and directly outputs the results from an end-to-end trained deep neural network. Additionally, the complexity of the overall system is also reduced such that the proposed method can be implemented on PCs as well as on embedded systems like NVIDIA Jetson Xavier at 17.39 fps.
Road Risk-Index Analysis Using Satellite Products
Authors: Firuți Bogdan-Cristian , Păduraru Răzvan-Ștefan , Negru Cătălin , Petrescu-Niţă Alina , Bădescu Octavian , Pop Florin
Published: March 2023

This paper proposes a service called intelligent routing using satellite products (IRUS) that can be used in order to analyze risks to the road infrastructure during bad weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall, storms, or floods. By diminishing movement risk, rescuers can arrive safely at their destination. To analyze these routes, the application uses both data provided by Sentinel satellites from the Copernicus program and meteorological data from local weather stations. Moreover, the application uses algorithms to determine the night driving time. From this analysis we obtain a risk index for each road provided by Google Maps API and then we present the path alongside the risk index in a friendly graphic interface. In order to obtain an accurate risk index, the application analyzes both recent and past data (up to 12 months).
Optical Encoding Model Based on Orbital Angular Momentum Powered by Machine Learning
Authors: Lamilla Erick , Sacarelo Christian , Alvarez-Alvarado Manuel S. , Pazmino Arturo , Iza Peter
Published: March 2023

Based on orbital angular momentum (OAM) properties of Laguerre–Gaussian beams LG(p,ℓ), a robust optical encoding model for efficient data transmission applications is designed. This paper presents an optical encoding model based on an intensity profile generated by a coherent superposition of two OAM-carrying Laguerre–Gaussian modes and a machine learning detection method. In the encoding process, the intensity profile for data encoding is generated based on the selection of p and ℓ indices, while the decoding process is performed using a support vector machine (SVM) algorithm. Two different decoding models based on an SVM algorithm are tested to verify the robustness of the optical encoding model, finding a BER =10−9 for 10.2 dB of signal-to-noise ratio in one of the SVM models.
Internet-of-Things (IoT) Platform for Road Energy Efficiency Monitoring
Authors: Skar Asmus , Vestergaard Anders , Pour Shahrzad M. , Pettinari Matteo
Published: March 2023

The road transportation sector is a dominant and growing energy consumer. Although investigations to quantify the road infrastructure’s impact on energy consumption have been carried out, there are currently no standard methods to measure or label the energy efficiency of road networks. Consequently, road agencies and operators are limited to restricted types of data when managing the road network. Moreover, initiatives meant to reduce energy consumption cannot be measured and quantified. This work is, therefore, motivated by the desire to provide road agencies with a road energy efficiency monitoring concept that can provide frequent measurements over large areas across all weather conditions. The proposed system is based on measurements from in-vehicle sensors. The measurements are collected onboard with an Internet-of-Things (IoT) device, then transmitted periodically before being processed, normalized, and saved in a database. The normalization procedure involves modeling the vehicle’s primary driving resistances in the driving direction. It is hypothesized that the energy remaining after normalization holds information about wind conditions, vehicle-related inefficiencies, and the physical condition of the road. The new method was first validated utilizing a limited dataset of vehicles driving at a constant speed on a short highway section. Next, the method was applied to data obtained from ten nominally identical electric cars driven over highways and urban roads. The normalized energy was compared with road roughness measurements collected by a standard road profilometer. The average measured energy consumption was 1.55 Wh per 10 m. The average normalized energy consumption was 0.13 and 0.37 Wh per 10 m for highways and urban roads, respectively. A correlation analysis showed that normalized energy consumption was positively correlated to road roughness. The average Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.88 for aggregated data and 0.32 and 0.39 for 1000-m road sections on highways and urban roads, respectively. An increase in IRI of 1 m/km resulted in a 3.4% increase in normalized energy consumption. The results show that the normalized energy holds information about the road roughness. Thus, considering the emergence of connected vehicle technologies, the method seems promising and can potentially be used as a platform for future large-scale road energy efficiency monitoring.
State of the Art of Non-Invasive Technologies for Bladder Monitoring: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hafid Abdelakram , Difallah Sabrina , Alves Camille , Abdullah Saad , Folke Mia , Lindén Maria , Kristoffersson Annica
Published: March 2023

Bladder monitoring, including urinary incontinence management and bladder urinary volume monitoring, is a vital part of urological care. Urinary incontinence is a common medical condition affecting the quality of life of more than 420 million people worldwide, and bladder urinary volume is an important indicator to evaluate the function and health of the bladder. Previous studies on non-invasive techniques for urinary incontinence management technology, bladder activity and bladder urine volume monitoring have been conducted. This scoping review outlines the prevalence of bladder monitoring with a focus on recent developments in smart incontinence care wearable devices and the latest technologies for non-invasive bladder urine volume monitoring using ultrasound, optical and electrical bioimpedance techniques. The results found are promising and their application will improve the well-being of the population suffering from neurogenic dysfunction of the bladder and the management of urinary incontinence. The latest research advances in bladder urinary volume monitoring and urinary incontinence management have significantly improved existing market products and solutions and will enable the development of more effective future solutions.
A High-Relative-Bandwidth Doherty Power Amplifier with Modified Load Modulation Network for Wireless Communications
Authors: Zhu Haipeng , Zhang Zhiwei , Gu Chao , Xuan Xuefei
Published: March 2023

This paper presents a novel load modulation network to realize a broadband Doherty power amplifier (DPA). The proposed load modulation network consists of two generalized transmission lines and a modified coupler. A comprehensive theoretical analysis is carried out to explain the operation principles of the proposed DPA. The analysis of the normalized frequency bandwidth characteristic shows that a theoretical relative bandwidth of approximately 86% can be obtained across a normalized frequency range of 0.4–1.0. The complete design process that allows the design of the large-relative-bandwidth DPA based on derived parameter solutions is presented. A broadband DPA operating between 1.0 GHz and 2.5 GHz was fabricated for validation. Measurements demonstrate that the DPA can deliver an output power of 43.9–44.5 dBm with a drain efficiency of 63.7–71.6% in the 1.0–2.5 GHz frequency band at the saturation level. Moreover, a drain efficiency of 45.2–53.7% can be obtained at the 6 dB power back-off level.
Pedestrian Crossing Intention Forecasting at Unsignalized Intersections Using Naturalistic Trajectories
Authors: Moreno Esteban , Denny Patrick , Ward Enda , Horgan Jonathan , Eising Ciaran , Jones Edward , Glavin Martin , Parsi Ashkan , Mullins Darragh , Deegan Brian
Published: March 2023

Interacting with other roads users is a challenge for an autonomous vehicle, particularly in urban areas. Existing vehicle systems behave in a reactive manner, warning the driver or applying the brakes when the pedestrian is already in front of the vehicle. The ability to anticipate a pedestrian’s crossing intention ahead of time will result in safer roads and smoother vehicle maneuvers. The problem of crossing intent forecasting at intersections is formulated in this paper as a classification task. A model that predicts pedestrian crossing behaviour at different locations around an urban intersection is proposed. The model not only provides a classification label (e.g., crossing, not-crossing), but a quantitative confidence level (i.e., probability). The training and evaluation are carried out using naturalistic trajectories provided by a publicly available dataset recorded from a drone. Results show that the model is able to predict crossing intention within a 3-s time window.
Controller Cyber-Attack Detection and Isolation
Authors: Sztyber-Betley Anna , Syfert Michał , Kościelny Jan Maciej , Górecka Zuzanna
Published: March 2023

This article deals with the cyber security of industrial control systems. Methods for detecting and isolating process faults and cyber-attacks, consisting of elementary actions named “cybernetic faults” that penetrate the control system and destructively affect its operation, are analysed. FDI fault detection and isolation methods and the assessment of control loop performance methods developed in the automation community are used to diagnose these anomalies. An integration of both approaches is proposed, which consists of checking the correct functioning of the control algorithm based on its model and tracking changes in the values of selected control loop performance indicators to supervise the control circuit. A binary diagnostic matrix was used to isolate anomalies. The presented approach requires only standard operating data (process variable (PV), setpoint (SP), and control signal (CV). The proposed concept was tested using the example of a control system for superheaters in a steam line of a power unit boiler. Cyber-attacks targeting other parts of the process were also included in the study to test the proposed approach’s applicability, effectiveness, and limitations and identify further research directions.
One-Pot Synthesis of Enzyme and Antibody/CaHPO4 Nanoflowers for Magnetic Chemiluminescence Immunoassay of Salmonella enteritidis
Authors: Mao Xingchu , Ye Ranfeng
Published: March 2023

In this study, through a bioinspired strategy, the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and antibody (Ab) were co-embedded into CaHPO4 to prepare HRP-Ab-CaHPO4 (HAC) bifunctional hybrid nanoflowers by one-pot mild coprecipitation. The as-prepared HAC hybrid nanoflowers then were utilized as the signal tag in a magnetic chemiluminescence immunoassay for application in the detection of Salmonella enteritidis (S. enteritidis). The proposed method exhibited excellent detection performance in the linear range of 10–105 CFU/mL, with the limit of detection (LOD) of 10 CFU/mL. This study indicates great potential in the sensitive detection of foodborne pathogenic bacteria in milk with this new magnetic chemiluminescence biosensing platform.
3-[5-(1H-Indol-3-ylmethylene)-4-oxo-2-thioxothiazolidin-3-yl]-propionic Acid as a Potential Polypharmacological Agent
Authors: Konechnyi Yulian , Lozynskyi Andrii , Ivasechko Iryna , Dumych Tetiana , Paryzhak Solomiya , Hrushka Oksana , Partyka Ulyana , Pasichnyuk Iryna , Khylyuk Dmytro , Lesyk Roman
Published: March 2023

Searching for new types of biological activities among preliminarily identified hit compounds is a key challenge in modern medicinal chemistry. In our study, a previously studied 3-[5-(1H-indol-3-ylmethylene)-4-oxo-2-thioxothiazolidin-3-yl]-propionic acid (Les-6614) was screened for antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-allergic, and antitumor activities. Moreover, cytotoxicity, molecular docking, and SwissAdme online target screening were accomplished. It was determined that the Les-6614 has slight antimicrobial and antitumor activity. However, the studied compound decreased IgE levels in sensitized guinea pigs by 33–86% and reduced IgA, IgM, IL-2, and TNF-α, indicating anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic aactivities. According to the SwissADME web tool, target predictions for Les-6614 potentially have an affinity for lysosomal protective protein, Thromboxane-A synthase, and PPARγ. The molecular docking confirmed that the studied 2-thioxo-4-thiazolidinone derivative showed good bonding with LLP and TXAS, leading to stable protein–ligand complexes. Additionally, Les-6614 is a potential PPARγ modulator, which is important in the pathogenesis of allergy, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.
An Extensive Overview of Islanding Detection Strategies of Active Distributed Generations in Sustainable Microgrids
Authors: Mumtaz Faisal , Imran Kashif , Abusorrah Abdullah , Bukhari Syed Basit Ali
Published: March 2023

Active distributed generations (ADGs) are more prevalent near consumer premises. However, the ADG penetration contribute a lot of dynamic changes in power distribution networks which cause different protection and control issues. Islanding is one of the crucial problems related to such ADGs; on the other hand, islanding detection is also a challenging aspect. Therefore, an extensive review of islanding real-time depiction and islanding detection strategies (IDS) is provided in this work. Initially, the focus is on islanding detection concept depiction, islanding detection standardization, benchmark test systems for IDS validation, and software/tools and an analysis of their pros and cons. Then, the detailed classification of IDSs is presented with an emphasis on remote and local methods. Passive, active, and hybrid can be used further to categorize local IDSs. Moreover, the statistical comparative analysis of the IDSs based on the non-detection-zone (NDZ), cost-effectiveness, and false operation are mentioned. The research gap and loopholes in the existing work based on limitations in the existing work are presented. Finally, the paper is concluded with detailed recommendations.
Temporal Instability and Transferability Analysis of Daytime and Nighttime Motorcyclist-Injury Severities Considering Unobserved Heterogeneity of Data
Authors: Se Chamroeun , Champahom Thanapong , Jomnonkwao Sajjakaj , Wisutwattanasak Panuwat , Laphrom Wimon , Ratanavaraha Vatanavongs
Published: March 2023

Using motorcycle crash data from 2016 to 2019, this paper aims to uncover and compare the risk factors that influence the severity of motorcyclist injuries sustained in daytime and nighttime motorcycle crashes in Thailand. Mixed-ordered probit models with means and variances in heterogeneity were used to take into consideration unobserved heterogeneity. The temporal instability of risk factors was also extensively explored. The results show that male motorcyclists, speeding, fatigue, crashes in work zones, crashes on raised median roads, intersection-related crashes, crashes on wet roads, and crashes on unlit roads are all factors that are positively associated with the risk of death and serious injury in nighttime crashes. The presence of pillions, crashes on two-lane roads, crashes on depressed/flush median roads, crashes in rural areas, U-turn-related crashes, weekend crashes involving heavy vehicles, and head-on crashes are factors that were positively associated with risk of death and serious injury for both daytime and nighttime crashes. This study’s findings provide evidence that factors that influence motorcycle accidents during the daytime and nighttime vary significantly. Additionally, nighttime crashes typically carried a higher risk of fatalities or serious injuries compared to daytime crashes. A discussion of policy recommendations is also provided.
An Integrated Model for Constructing Urban Ecological Networks and Identifying the Ecological Protection Priority: A Case Study of Wujiang District, Suzhou
Authors: Pan Liyu , Gan Wenquan , Chen Jinliu , Ren Kunlun
Published: March 2023

As a result of the rapid urbanisation in China, the ecological system in urban areas has become fragmented, posing a threat to ecological stability. Constructing ecological networks is considered a critical strategy to reconnect habitats, restore ecosystems and improve ecological capacity. This research aims to develop a GIS-based model that can inform urban ecological network construction and identify the priority areas for ecological protection in a given urban context. The methodological prototype considers land use, habitat conditions and human interventions from an integrated perspective and has been tested based on a case study in Wujiang District, Suzhou. The results show that (i) 30 critical ecological patches were identified, including 2 vital, 4 important and 24 general cores; (ii) 69 ecological corridors, including 15 vital, 36 important and 18 general corridors, 59 ecological nodes and 24 barriers were determined. Based on these results, this research identified priority restoration and protected areas that urgently require the restoration of ecological networks according to their importance. This research proposes further recommendations on management strategies for construction and protection guidance at macro and micro levels in accordance with existing territorial and spatial planning of Wujiang. The model developed in this research provides a scientific methodology for planning and optimising ecological networks and can serve as a basis for realising ecological protection.
The Liberalisation of Air Transport and the Impacts on Travel and Tourism: The Case of the Azores Archipelago
Authors: Silveira Luís , Santos Norberto , Moreira Claudete Oliveira
Published: March 2023

This paper intends to fill a gap by analysing the changes wrought by full air liberalisation and its impacts on travel and tourism in the Azores archipelago. This study examines the Tourism Planning Plan of the Autonomous Region of the Azores (POTRAA), the new air transport model and several statistics related to air transport and tourism dynamics before and after the liberalisation, which took place in 2015. Time series analyses were used, and the period under analysis was defined (2013–2022). The results show that the entry of low-cost carriers (LCCs) resulted in flag carriers having to change to keep being competitive. Furthermore, a more extensive exposure of the destination through the LCCs created opportunities for all airlines. The results directly related to tourism include tourist numbers increasing in inter-island, national, and international flights, new routes opening to Europe and the USA, higher accommodation occupancy, and market diversification.
The Costs of Soil Erosion to Crop Production in Canada between 1971 and 2015
Authors: Badreldin Nasem , Lobb David A.
Published: March 2023

Canada is known for its massive and fertile landscape, and one of the biggest industries in Canada is crop production, which is responsible for contributing to the national economy as well as the global food supply. Soil erosion is considered the top challenge facing Canadian farmers in the 21st century. This study aims to evaluate soil erosion’s impact on Canadian crop production, assessed based on the integration of soil erosion analysis and multitemporal crop market values from 1971 to 2015. Soil Erosion Risk Indicator models were used to assess soil erosion’s impact on crop productivity using the relationship of soil organic carbon with crop yield gain/loss. The total soil erosion cost of yield losses in the 44 years leading up to 2015 is estimated to be CAD 33.51 billion. 2013 was found to show the highest loss, with CAD 1.93 billion. Oilseeds, small grains, and potatoes were the major crop commodities that were impacted by yield loss as a direct result of soil erosion, the costs being 41%, 37%, and 15%, respectively. Ontario and Saskatchewan were the most impacted provinces, with costs of 45.25% and 22.50%, respectively. Four eras were detected in this research, each having unique soil erosion costs, which reflect different agriculture policy and soil conservation efforts: Era 1 (1971–1988), Era 2 (1989–1995), Era 3 (1996–2007), and Era 4 (2008–2015). This research is the beginning of exploring the cost of the environmental impacts on agriculture sustainability in Canada and supporting decision makers in adopting effective soil conservation strategies to mitigate these impacts.
Optimisation of Building Green Performances Using Vertical Greening Systems: A Case Study in Changzhou, China
Authors: Yang Yue , Hu Kai , Liu Yibiao , Wang Zhihuang , Dong Kaihong , Lv Peijuan , Shi Xing
Published: March 2023

The benefits of greening systems on buildings have been frequently examined using experimental methods. However, few studies have adopted dynamic monitoring of real operational buildings to quantify the effects of greening systems on multiple building green performance indexes, such as thermal comfort, indoor air quality, and energy consumption. In this study, a type of multi-in-one indoor environmental quality monitoring device was adopted for vertical greening systems in a green-certified building in Changzhou, China, with real-time data collection through an Internet of Things platform. Measurements of the indoor thermal environment and air quality were recorded from four testing points during a 90 day period from spring to summer in 2021. For comparison, the testing points were divided into group A (office zone) and group B (exhibition zone). Our results demonstrated that, in the presence of a vertical greening system, the seasonal average indoor temperatures decreased by up to 0.7 °C. The green facade outperformed the ordinary exterior wall, optimising both indoor thermal comfort and thermal inertia. Furthermore, judicious indoor greening designs significantly reduced the indoor air-pollutant concentrations, such as particulate matter, carbon dioxide, and organic pollutants. The median values for particulate matter 10 and formaldehyde concentration decreased by 20.7% and 33.3%, respectively, thus improving the indoor air quality. Lastly, the annual electricity consumption of the building with vertical greening systems was about 25% lower than that of similar buildings, underlining the potential contribution of vertical greening systems to building energy conservation. Such findings collectively demonstrate that greening systems offer quantifiable benefits for building parameters such as thermal properties, indoor air quality, and energy conservation.
Examining the Impact of Marketing Motives and Concerns on User Satisfaction and Re-Purchase Intentions in a Sharing Economy
Authors: Alnaim Abdullah F. , Abdelwahed Nadia Abdelhamid Abdelmegeed
Published: March 2023

In a fast-growing global economy, there is much debate in the socio-economic models about the sharing economy, which is a digital platform that benefits society and improves people’s quality of life. A significant benchmark of the sharing economy is that it enables individuals to monetize their assets that need to be used fully. This highlights an individual’s ability and perhaps their preference to either rent or borrow goods rather than own them. This study investigated Saudi Arabian students’ User Satisfaction (US) and their Re-Purchase Intentions (RPI) in the context of the sharing economy. We employed a deductive approach that utilized cross-sectional data collected through online sampling. The results were derived from 324 acceptable completed questionnaires. We used a Structural Equation Model (SEM) to confirm the positive and significant predictive power of Trust, Economic Benefits (EBs), Sharing Economy Philosophy (SEP), Service Quality and Net Benefits (NBs) on US and RPI. The results also demonstrated a positive and significant effect of concerns such as Lack of Trust (LoT) and Expected Effort (EE) on US. Finally, among Saudi Arabian students, US is a positive and significant predictor of RPI. In the context of a developing country such as Saudi Arabia, this study’s insights to the practical and theoretical spheres contribute to operational management and the literature about online digital learning.
Headland and Field Edge Performance Assessment Using Yield Maps and Sentinel-2 Images
Authors: Liu Kaihua , Kayad Ahmed , Sozzi Marco , Sartori Luigi , Marinello Francesco
Published: March 2023

Headland and field edges have a higher traffic frequency compared to the field centre, which causes more compaction. Most repeated compaction is located at the field entrance area and headland during machinery turning and material transporting that takes place during the fertilisation, herbicide laying, and harvesting of fields, which could cause soil structure destruction and yield reduction. In this study, the differences between headland, field edges, and field centre were studied using yield maps and the vegetation indices (VIs) calculated by the Google Earth Engine (GEE). First, thirteen yield maps from 2019 to 2022 were used to measure the yield difference between headland, field edges, and field centre. Then, one hundred and eleven fields from northern Italy were used to compare the vegetation indices (VIs) differences between headland, field edges, and field centre area. Then, field size, sand, and clay content were calculated and estimated from GEE. The yield map showed that headland and field edges were 12.20% and 2.49% lower than the field centre. The results of the comparison of the VIs showed that headlands and field edges had lower values compared to the field centre, with reductions of 4.27% and 2.70% in the normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), 4.17% and 2.67% in the green normalized difference vegetation index (GNDVI), and 5.87% and 3.59% in the normalised difference red edge (NDRE). Additionally, the results indicated that the yield losses in the headland and field edges increased as the clay content increased and sand content decreased. These findings suggest that soil compaction and structural damage caused by the higher traffic frequency in the headland and field edges negatively affect crop yield.
Study on Location of Bus Stop in Subway Service Area Based on Residents’ Travel Accessibility
Authors: Wang Sini , Zuo Zhongyi , Liu Yan
Published: March 2023

This research aims at establishing an integrated urban public transport system with a subway route supplemented by conventional bus lines, in order to enable residents’ “door-to-door” travel. This paper first analyzed the attraction area of the subway, and then used the GIS tools to calculate and analyze residents’ accessibility to adjacent bus stops. Moreover, it created a preliminary layout of bus stops for residential areas with extremely low accessibility using an improved potential model. From the perspective of minimizing residents’ travel costs and bus stop infrastructure deployment costs, a bus stop site selection optimization model was developed. According to the characteristics of the model, the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) was employed to solve the optimal bus stop locations. In addition, the entropy weight technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) evaluation model was used to evaluate and sort candidate schemes, accordingly, and thus the optimal site selection scheme was identified. Finally, a before-after comparative analysis on residents’ travel accessibility was conducted. Results show that the proposed method can effectively improve residents’ accessibility to bus stops, which facilitates residents to transfer from conventional bus to subway. Furthermore, it provides a basis for the follow-up optimization of the connection between subway and conventional bus lines.
An Examination of the Spatial Spillover Effects of Tourism Transportation on Sustainable Development from a Multiple-Indicator Cross-Perspective
Authors: Gong Huixin , Zheng Yaomin , Shi Jinlian , Wang Jiaxin , Yang Huize , Sibalo Sinead Praise A. , Mwamlima Amani , Li Jingyu , Xu Shuting , Xu Dandan , Huang Xiankai
Published: March 2023

Tourism is linked to multiple dimensions, such as the economy, society, and environment, and the relationships among its influencing factors are complex, diverse, and overlapping. This study constructed an evaluation index system to measure the degree of coordinated development of tourism, transportation, and the regional economy, then built a tourism-transportation-based Spatial Durbin Model (SDM) regarding the process of the coordinated development of tourism in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region (BTHR) from 2010 to 2020. This paper explains the current status of sustainable tourism development in the BTHR and the impact and spillover effects of transportation on tourism development. The results show that the normalized tourism coordinated development index (NTCDI) of the BTHR increased from 13.61 in 2010 to 18.75 in 2019, then decreased to 14.45 in 2020. The results of SDM show that different transportation modes have different spillover effects on tourism. Specifically, civil aviation transportation has a positive impact and significant spillover on a city’s tourism revenue (TR), while high-speed railway transportation has a negative spillover effect. The model results also show that the degree of openness of the city and city economic development level have significant positive effects and spillover effects on tourism development. Finally, the implications of related variables are discussed, and some suggestions are put forward on tourism development in the BTHR. However, there are some limitations in this study. In the future, international cooperation and data sharing will be strengthened, and multivariate methods such as social network analysis, artificial intelligence, and machine learning will be further integrated to achieve accurate simulation and prediction of the spatial spillover effects of tourism transportation.
Environmental Identity, Connectedness with Nature, and Well-Being as Predictors of Pro-Environmental Behavior, and Their Comparison between Inhabitants of Rural and Urban Areas
Authors: Sierra-Barón Willian , Olivos-Jara Pablo , Gómez-Acosta Andrés , Navarro Oscar
Published: March 2023

The study of factors that predict pro-environmental behavior is interesting, given the need to develop sustainable actions in urban and rural contexts. The available scientific evidence shows knowledge gaps and opportunities about the role that environmental identity, connectedness with nature, and well-being play in pro-environmental behavior. To provide evidence in this regard, this research aimed to describe and identify possible significant differences between these variables to establish whether they predict pro-environmental behavior, considering the rural-urban provenance. The methodology was cross-sectional, with descriptive and correlational analysis. The sample was 1705 people (M age = 31.36 years, 57.4% female) belonging to two departments in southern Colombia (66.7% from the rural sector), and questionnaires were applied to collect the information. The results show that people of rural origin showed higher levels of environmental identity with significant differences (p-value > 0.01) compared to the urban sample. The indicators of psychological health, connectedness with nature, and identity better explain the levels of pro-environmental behavior of the urban population (R = 0.81, p-value < 0.01) compared to the rural population (R = 0.64, p-value < 0.01). This study concludes that the variables predict pro-environmental behavior, providing better explanatory evidence in urban than rural inhabitants. The limitations and new study prospects in the area are discussed.
Improvement of the Treatment Performance of the Conventional Wastewater Treatment Plant: A Case Study of the Central Wastewater Treatment Plant in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Authors: Nyamjav Boldbaatar , Badarch Ayurzana , Sangi Chuluunkhuyag , Khurelbaatar Ganbaatar
Published: March 2023

This study is carried out within the framework of the requirements of ensuring reliable operation of the Central Wastewater Treatment Plant of Ulaanbaatar to increase the treatment performance and mitigate the adverse impacts of the current poor performance on nature and ecology. The dynamic of the current influent was studied in order to find the best-suited solution as a means of improvement for the WWTP. As an immediate and fast-to-build solution, an equalization tank and pre-aeration facilities were proposed. The positive effect of the facilities on the biological treatment stage and the overall treatment performance was estimated both theoretically and empirically. The results showed that the overall performance of the treatment for BOD5 and TSS will be increased by up to 30% and 10%, respectively. Furthermore, the high fluctuation problems the central WWTP in terms of hydraulic and pollution load will be positively affected by the intervention, eliminating the main cause of the current poor treatment performance.
Air Quality—Meteorology Correlation Modeling Using Random Forest and Neural Network
Authors: Liu Ruifang , Pang Lixia , Yang Yidian , Gao Yuxing , Gao Bei , Liu Feng , Wang Li
Published: March 2023

Under the global warming trend, the diffusion of air pollutants has intensified, causing extremely serious environmental problems. In order to improve the air quality–meteorology correlation model’s prediction accuracy, this work focuses on the management strategy of the environmental ecosystem under the Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithm and explores the correlation between air quality and meteorology. Xi’an city is selected as an example. Then, the theoretical knowledge is explained for Random Forest (RF), Backpropagation Neural Network (BPNN), and Genetic Algorithm (GA) in AI. Finally, GA is used to optimize and predict the weights and thresholds of the BPNN. Further, a fusion model of RF + BP + GA is proposed to predict the air quality and meteorology correlation. The proposed air quality–meteorology correlation model is applied to forest ecosystem management. Experimental analysis reveals that average temperature positively correlates with Air Quality Index (AQI), while relative humidity and wind speed negatively correlate with AQI. Moreover, the proposed RF + BP + GA model’s prediction error for AQI is not more than 0.32, showing an excellently fitting effect with the actual value. The air-quality prediction effect of the meteorological correlation model using RF is slightly lower than the real measured value. The prediction effect of the BP–GA model is slightly higher than the real measured value. The prediction effect of the air quality–meteorology correlation model combining RF and BP–GA is the closest to the real measured value. It shows that the air quality–meteorology correlation model using the fusion model of RF and BP–GA can predict AQI with the utmost accuracy. This work provides a research reference regarding the AQI value of the correlation model of air quality and meteorology and provides data support for the analysis of air quality problems.
Spatiotemporal Evolution of the Coupling Coordination Relationship of “Population–Environment” Development in the Xi’an Metropolitan Area
Authors: Qu Wen , Lian Hao , Wang Yao , Ma Yan
Published: March 2023

In China, the metropolitan area is an important spatial carrier to promote high-quality urbanization as well as the coordinated development of large, medium, and small cities and regions. The environment is an important factor affecting the quality of life among urban populations, and anthropogenic activity significantly impacts the natural and built environments. Considering the Xi’an metropolitan area as a case study, we selected three subsystems across three cross-sections in 2000, 2010, and 2020: population agglomeration, natural ecological development, and urban environmental development. We used the entropy weight method, coupling the coordination model and correlation analysis to analyze the spatiotemporal patterns, coupling coordination relationship, and related development factors of the “population–environment” system. The results showed that the development of the “population–environment” system in Xi’an exhibits stratification and differentiation between the center, core, and periphery circles. The coupling coordination level of “population–environment” is slowly improving, while most districts and counties have been on the verge of incoordination. Furthermore, the coupling coordination relationship of each district and county could be further classified into five types. Accordingly, this paper discusses corresponding and differentiated strategies to promote the healthy and sustainable development of regional populations and the environment for districts and counties.
Travel Confidence Reviving Tourism Industry: Is the Vaccination a Solution?
Authors: Tay Kai Xin , Chan Jennifer Kim Lian
Published: March 2023

Vaccination can play a decisive role in reducing travel risk and rebuilding travel confidence. Previous studies pointed out that travel desires moderate or influence vaccination intention, while this paper extends their studies to investigate the relationships between vaccine trust (VT), travel confidence after vaccination (TC), travel intention (TI) and travel behaviour (TB). The VT, TC, and TI clusters were insignificant towards travel behaviour, indicating that travel confidence triggers travel intention but did not reflect on behaviour. The binomial logit model disclosed that only travel confidence was statistically significant toward travel intention, whereby tourists who were more desirous of travelling would be 5.3 times greater in the high-TC cluster. This paper suggests that vaccination should not serve as the only solution for the early stage of tourism reboot, as vaccination can boost travel confidence but not the tourists’ behaviour.
Solution of the Generalized Burgers Equation Using Homotopy Perturbation Method with General Fractional Derivative
Authors: Alqahtani Awatif Muflih
Published: March 2023

This research paper introduces the generalized Burgers equation, a mathematical model defined using the general fractional derivative, the most recent operator in fractional calculus. The general fractional derivative can be reduced into three well-known operators, providing a more tractable form of the equation. We apply the homotopy perturbation method (HPM), a powerful analytical technique, to obtain the solution of the generalized Burgers equation. The results are illustrated using a practical example, and we present an analysis of the three reduced operators. In addition, a graphical analysis is provided to visualize the behavior of the solution. This study sheds light on the application of the homotopy perturbation method and the general fractional derivative in solving the generalized Burgers equation, contributing to the field of nonlinear differential equations.
Theoretical Simulation of the High–Order Harmonic Generated from Neon Atom Irradiated by the Intense Laser Pulse
Authors: Wei Siqi , Pan Yun , Qiao Yue , Zhou Shushan , Yuan Haiying , Wang Jun , Guo Fuming , Yang Yujun
Published: March 2023

Based on the strong field approximation theory and numerical solution of Maxwell’s propagation equations, the high–order harmonic is generated from a neon (Ne) atom irradiated by a high–intensity laser pulse whose central wavelength is 800 nm. In the harmonic spectrum, it is found that in addition to the odd harmonics of the driving laser, a new frequency peak appeared. By examining the time–dependent behavior of the driving laser, it is found that the symmetry of the laser field is broken. We demonstrated that these new spectrum peaks are caused by the intensity reduction and frequency blue shift of the high–intensity laser during propagation. Our results reveal that it is feasible to modulate the harmonics of the specific energy to produce high–intensity harmonic emission by changing the gas density and the position of the gas medium interacting with the laser pulse.
Hospitalist Co-Management of Urethroplasty Patients in an Academic Center: Implementation of a Standardized Postoperative Care Model
Authors: Taheri Pegah , Tijerina Adan , Gereta Sofia , Belbina Safiya-Hana , Osterberg E Charles
Published: March 2023

Objectives: to evaluate whether hospitalist co-management would lead to improved outcomes and value in patients undergoing urethroplasty (UPL) with a single surgeon for urethral stricture disease (USD). Material: A co-management model with hospitalists was introduced in August 2019 for all patients undergoing UPL for USD with a single surgeon in a United States teaching center. The hospitalist worked closely with the urologic surgeon and the support staff. The hospitalist managed post-operative concerns, such as pain and comorbidities, as well as conducted rounds with the urological team for disposition planning and addressing interdisciplinary needs. Retrospective analysis compared a 42-month period before initiation of co-management (Jan 2016–July 2019) with a 32-month period after initiation (Aug 2019–March 2022). Outcomes assessed were recurrence of stricture, complications, length of stay, readmission, and emergency room visits. Results: A total of 135 patients (71 surgeon-managed, 64 co-managed) underwent urethroplasty from January 2016 to March 2022. Hospitalist co-management did not affect complications, length of stay, readmission, and emergency room visits. Accounting for confounding variables using multivariable analysis, no factors were independently associated with recurrence. There were no demographic, comorbidity, or American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score differences between the two groups. Conclusions: This study suggests that hospitalist care for patients undergoing urethroplasty may be non-inferior to surgeon care, based on similar outcomes between the two groups. There were no significant differences in the total length of stay or blood pressure readings, and the complication rates and hospital readmission rates were also similar.
Is SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination of Subjects with a Prior History of Allergies Dangerous? Experiences in the Veneto Region of Italy
Authors: Cocchio Silvia , Girolametto Gloria , Pierobon Alice , Furlan Patrizia , Destefani Emanuela , Bulegato Lorenzo , Stano Antonio , Fietta Silvia , Poletto Annachiara , Baldo Vincenzo
Published: March 2023

Adverse events after SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations have caused alarm to some individuals with previously diagnosed allergies. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the risk of adverse reactions was actually higher in this subgroup. To this end, we carried out an observational descriptive analysis of vaccines administered in a “protected setting” in the Veneto region of Italy between December 2020 and December 2022. Reactions were classified using systemic organic classification (SOC), and their severity was assessed using the criteria of the Italian Drug Agency (AIFA). A total of 421 subjects were vaccinated with 1050 doses, 95.0% of which were administered without adverse events. In all, 53 subjects reported 87 SOC reactions (1.6 reactions/person), and 18.3% of these reactions were severe. One person was hospitalized, but all subjects enjoyed complete remission. Reporting rates were 9.0%, 3.1%, and 1.2% for first, second, and third doses, respectively. The most frequent reactions involved the respiratory system (2.3%), the cutaneous and subcutaneous systems (2.1%), and the nervous system (1.7%). Multivariate analyses (adjOR (95% CI)) revealed that the probability of experiencing at least one reaction significantly declined with increases in age [0.95 (0.94–0.97)] and in the number of doses received, i.e., 75% [0.25 (0.13–0.49)] for second doses and 88% [0.12 (0.04–0.39)] for third doses. These results indicated that vaccinations could be safely administered; few reactions were reported, and there were no permanent adverse outcomes.