bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Societal Applications of HF Skywave Radar
Authors: Anderson Stuart
Published: December 2022

After exploratory research in the 1950s, HF skywave ‘over-the-horizon’ radars (OTHR) were developed as operating systems in the 1960s for defence missions, notably the long-range detection of ballistic missiles, aircraft, and ships. The potential for a variety of non-defence applications soon became apparent, but the size, cost, siting requirements, and tasking priority hindered the implementation of these societal roles. A sister technology—HF surface wave radar (HFSWR)—evolved during the same period but, in this more compact form, the non-defence applications dominated, with hundreds of such radars presently deployed around the world, used primarily for ocean current mapping and wave measurements. In this paper, we examine the ocean monitoring capabilities of the latest generation of HF skywave radars, some shared with HFSWR, some unique to the skywave modality, and explore some new possibilities, along with selected technical details for their implementation. We apply state-of-the-art modelling and experimental data to illustrate the kinds of information that can be generated and exploited for civil, commercial, and scientific purposes. The examples treated confirm the relevance and value of this information to such diverse activities as shipping, fishing, offshore resource extraction, agriculture, communications, weather forecasting, and climate change studies.
Characteristics of Aerosol Extinction Hygroscopic Growth in the Typical Coastal City of Qingdao, China
Authors: Liu Nana , Cui Shengcheng , Luo Tao , Chen Shunping , Yang Kaixuan , Ma Xuebin , Sun Gang , Li Xuebin
Published: December 2022

The aerosol hygroscopic growth (HG) characteristics in coastal areas are very complex, which is one of the main influences on the simulation accuracy of radiation transfer modeling for coastal environments. Previous studies have shown that aerosol HG characteristics are very different in open oceans and inland regions. However, the aerosol HG features in coastal areas are strongly affected by its type. In this work, an aerosol backward trajectory tracing model was used to classify the local aerosol type. Using long-term field campaign data in Qingdao (25 September 2019 to 25 October 2020), the HG characteristics of different types of aerosols (i.e., land source, sea source, and mixed aerosol) under different seasons and different atmospheric environments (i.e., pollution background and clean background) were studied. Quantitative models of aerosol HG factor were established for aerosols from different sources in different seasons and under different pollution background conditions. The major type of local aerosol is terrestrial aerosol, as the marine source only accounts for 10–20%. Seasonal HG characteristics (deliquescence point, DP) of mixed and land source aerosol vary significantly, from around RH = 60% to RH = 85%, while that of the marine aerosol is rather consistent (RH = 80%). When the atmospheric background is relatively clean, the DPs of aerosols from different sources are almost the same (about RH = 80%), but when the pollution is heavy, the DPs of terrestrial aerosols are almost 20% lower than those of marine sources. These models can be directly used to characterize the hygroscopic characteristics of atmospheric aerosols in Qingdao at specific seasons or pollution levels for radiative transfer modeling, remote sensing, and so forth.
An Enhanced Hyper-Parameter Optimization of a Convolutional Neural Network Model for Leukemia Cancer Diagnosis in a Smart Healthcare System
Authors: Awotunde Joseph Bamidele , Imoize Agbotiname Lucky , Ayoade Oluwafisayo Babatope , Abiodun Moses Kazeem , Do Dinh-Thuan , Silva Adão , Sur Samarendra Nath
Published: December 2022

Healthcare systems in recent times have witnessed timely diagnoses with a high level of accuracy. Internet of Medical Things (IoMT)-enabled deep learning (DL) models have been used to support medical diagnostics in real time, thus resolving the issue of late-stage diagnosis of various diseases and increasing performance accuracy. The current approach for the diagnosis of leukemia uses traditional procedures, and in most cases, fails in the initial period. Hence, several patients suffering from cancer have died prematurely due to the late discovery of cancerous cells in blood tissue. Therefore, this study proposes an IoMT-enabled convolutional neural network (CNN) model to detect malignant and benign cancer cells in the patient’s blood tissue. In particular, the hyper-parameter optimization through radial basis function and dynamic coordinate search (HORD) optimization algorithm was used to search for optimal values of CNN hyper-parameters. Utilizing the HORD algorithm significantly increased the effectiveness of finding the best solution for the CNN model by searching multidimensional hyper-parameters. This implies that the HORD method successfully found the values of hyper-parameters for precise leukemia features. Additionally, the HORD method increased the performance of the model by optimizing and searching for the best set of hyper-parameters for the CNN model. Leukemia datasets were used to evaluate the performance of the proposed model using standard performance indicators. The proposed model revealed significant classification accuracy compared to other state-of-the-art models.
Terahertz and Millimeter Wave Sensing and Applications
Authors: Bauer Maris , Friederich Fabian
Published: December 2022

The field of terahertz and millimeter wave science and technology has evolved in recent years into an area attracting a lot of attention from all sides of science, industry, and the public [...]
Combined Pseudo-Random Sequence Generator for Cybersecurity
Authors: Maksymovych Volodymyr , Shabatura Mariia , Harasymchuk Oleh , Shevchuk Ruslan , Sawicki Pawel , Zajac Tomasz
Published: December 2022

Random and pseudo-random number and bit sequence generators with a uniform distribution law are the most widespread and in demand in the market of pseudo-random generators. Depending on the specific field of application, the requirements for their implementation and the quality of the generator’s output sequence change. In this article, we have optimized the structures of the classical additive Fibonacci generator and the modified additive Fibonacci generator when they work together. The ranges of initial settings of structural elements (seed) of these generators have been determined, which guarantee acceptable statistical characteristics of the output pseudo-random sequence, significantly expanding the scope of their possible application, including cybersecurity. When studying the statistical characteristics of the modified additive Fibonacci generator, it was found that they significantly depend on the signal from the output of the logic circuit entering the structure. It is proved that acceptable statistical characteristics of the modified additive Fibonacci generator, and the combined generator realized on its basis, are provided at odd values of the module of the recurrent equation describing the work of such generator. The output signal of the combined generator has acceptable characteristics for a wide range of values of the initial settings for the modified additive Fibonacci generator and the classic additive Fibonacci generator. Regarding the use of information security, it is worth noting the fact that for modern encryption and security programs, generators of random numbers and bit sequences and approaches to their construction are crucial and critical.
Optimal Underwater Acoustic Warfare Strategy Based on a Three-Layer GA-BP Neural Network
Authors: Wang Zirui , Wu Jing , Wang Haitao , Wang Huiyuan , Hao Yukun
Published: December 2022

A defense platform is usually based on two methods to make underwater acoustic warfare strategy decisions. One is through Monte-Carlo method online simulation, which is slow. The other is by typical empirical (database) and typical back-propagation (BP) neural network algorithms based on genetic algorithm (GA) optimization, which is less accurate and less robust. Therefore, this paper proposes a method to build an optimal underwater acoustic warfare feedback system using a three-layer GA-BP neural network and dropout processing of the neural network to prevent overfitting, so that the three-layer GA-BP neural network has adequate memory capability while still having suitable generalization capability. This method improves the accuracy and stability of the defense platform in making underwater acoustic warfare strategy decisions, thus increasing the survival probability of the defense platform in the face of incoming torpedoes. This paper uses the optimal underwater acoustic warfare strategies corresponding to incoming torpedoes with different postures as the sample set. Additionally, it uses a three-layer GA-BP neural network with an overfitting treatment for training. The prediction results have less error than the typical single-layer GA-BP neural network, and the survival probability of the defense platform improves by 6.15%. This defense platform underwater acoustic warfare strategy prediction method addresses the impact on the survival probability of the defense platform due to the decision speed and accuracy.
Evaluation of Void Defects behind Tunnel Lining through GPR forward Simulation
Authors: Wu Xianlong , Bao Xiaohua , Shen Jun , Chen Xiangsheng , Cui Hongzhi
Published: December 2022

Voids, a common defect in tunnel construction, lead to the deterioration of the lining structure and reduce the safety of tunnels. In this study, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) was used in tunnel lining void detection. Based on the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method, a forward model was established to simulate the process of tunnel lining void detection. The area of the forward image and the actual void area was analyzed based on the binarization method. Both the plain concrete and reinforced concrete lining with various sizes of air-filled and water-filled voids were considered. The rationality of the model was verified by measured data. It was observed that the response mode of voids can be hyperbolic, bowl-shaped, and strip-shaped, and this depends on the void’s width. Compared with the air-filled voids, water filling increases the response range of the voids and produces a virtual image. Although the diffracted wave caused by a steel bar will bring about significant interference to the void response, the center position of the voids can be accurately located using 3D GPR.
A Two-Step Method for Dynamic Parameter Identification of Indy7 Collaborative Robot Manipulator
Authors: Tadese Meseret , Pico Nabih , Seo Sungwon , Moon Hyungpil
Published: December 2022

Accurate dynamic model is critical for collaborative robots to achieve satisfactory performance in model-based control or other applications such as dynamic simulation and external torque estimation. Such dynamic models are frequently restricted to identifying important system parameters and compensating for nonlinear terms. Friction, as a primary nonlinear element in robotics, has a significant impact on model accuracy. In this paper, a reliable dynamic friction model, which incorporates the influence of temperature fluctuation on the robot joint friction, is utilized to increase the accuracy of identified dynamic parameters. First, robot joint friction is investigated. Extensive test series are performed in the full velocity operating range at temperatures ranging from 19 °C to 51 °C to investigate friction dependency on joint module temperature. Then, dynamic parameter identification is performed using an inverse dynamics identification model and weighted least squares regression constrained to the feasible space, guaranteeing the optimal solution. Using the identified friction model parameters, the friction torque is computed for measured robot joint velocity and temperature. Friction torque is subtracted from the measured torque, and a non-friction torque is used to identify dynamic parameters. Finally, the proposed notion is validated experimentally on the Indy7 collaborative robot manipulator, and the results show that the dynamic model with parameters identified using the proposed method outperforms the dynamic model with parameters identified using the conventional method in tracking measured torque, with a relative improvement of up to 70.37%.
Solving the Static Resource-Allocation Problem in SDM-EONs via a Node-Type ILP Model
Authors: Wang Jiading , Chen Sibo , Wu Qian , Tan Yiliu , Shigeno Maiko
Published: December 2022

Space division multiplexing elastic optical networks (SDM-EONs) are one of the most promising network architectures that satisfy the rapidly growing traffic of the internet. However, different from traditional wavelength division multiplexing (WDM)-based networks, the problems of resource allocation become more complicated because SDM-EONs have smaller spectrum granularity and have to consider several novel network resources, such as modulation formats and spatial dimensions. In this work, we propose an integer linear programming (ILP) model without space lane change (SLC) that provides theoretically exact solutions for the problem of routing, modulation format, space, and spectrum assignment (RMSSA). Moreover, to more efficiently solve our model which is difficult to solve directly, we propose three exact algorithms based on model decomposition and evaluate their performance via simulation experiments, and we find that two of our exact algorithms can solve the model effectively in small-scale instances.
A Notch Filter-Based Coupling Circuit for UNB and NB PLC Systems
Authors: da Silva Costa Luís Guilherme , Cantarino Wesley Mateus , Camponogara Ândrei , Ferreira André Augusto , Ribeiro Moisés Vidal
Published: December 2022

This paper introduces an analog notch filtering-based coupling circuit for receivers in ultra-narrowband and narrowband power line communication systems, which are connected to low-voltage electric power grids. It is composed of a twin-T notch analog filter, which is responsible for imposing a significant attenuation on the main frequency (i.e., f0∈{50,60} Hz) in cascade with an elliptic low-pass analog filter, designed with a 3 dB cut-off frequency of fc≫f0. For f0=60 Hz and fc=2 MHz, the prototype of the analog notch filtering-based coupling circuit attains attenuation values of 22 dB and less than 2 dB at the main frequency and in the rest of the frequency bandwidth, respectively, when practical scenarios are considered. Lastly, it shows that the analog notch filtering-based coupling circuit is more effective than a typical capacitive coupling circuit when frequencies lower than 3 kHz are considered for data communication and sensing purposes.
Study of Modeling and Optimal Take-Off Scheme for a Novel Tilt-Rotor UAV
Authors: Yu Zelong , Zhang Jingjuan , Wang Xueyun
Published: December 2022

The optimal trajectory planning for a novel tilt-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in different take-off schemes was studied. A novel tilt-rotor UAV that possesses characteristics of both tilt-rotors and a blended wing body is introduced. The aerodynamic modeling of the rotor based on blade element momentum theory (BEMT) is established. An analytical method for determining the taking-off envelope of tilt angle versus airspeed is presented. A novel takeoff–tilting scheme, namely tilting take-off (TTO), is developed, and its optimal trajectory is designed based on the direct collocation method. Parameters such as the rotor thrust, tilt angle of rotor and angle of attack are chosen as control variables, and the forward velocity, vertical velocity and altitude are selected as state variables. The time and the energy consumption are considered in the performance optimization indexes. The optimal trajectories of the TTO scheme and other conventional schemes including vertical take-off (VTO) and short take-off (STO) are compared and analyzed. Simulation results indicate that the TTO scheme consumes 47 percent less time and 75 percent less energy than the VTO scheme. Moreover, with minor differences in time and energy consumption compared to the STO scheme, but without the need for sliding distance, TTO is the optimal take-off scheme to satisfy the flight constraints of a novel tilt-rotor UAV.
The Vagueness of COLREG versus Collision Avoidance Techniques—A Discussion on the Current State and Future Challenges Concerning the Operation of Autonomous Ships
Authors: Wróbel Krzysztof , Gil Mateusz , Huang Yamin , Wawruch Ryszard
Published: December 2022

With the development of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), considerable research is undertaken to secure their safety. One of the critical aspects of MASS is collision avoidance, and multiple collision avoidance algorithms have been developed. However, due to various reasons, collision avoidance of autonomous merchant vessels appears to be far from resolved. With this study, we aim to discuss the current state of Collision Avoidance Methods (CAMs) and the challenges lying ahead—from a joint academic and practical point of view. To this end, the key Rules from International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG) have been reviewed with a focus on their practical application for MASS. Moreover, the consideration of the COLREG Rules in contemporary collision avoidance algorithms has been reviewed. The ultimate objective is to identify aspects of COLREG requiring additional attention concerning MASS developments in terms of collision avoidance. Our conclusions indicate that although a lot of progress has been achieved recently, the feasibility of CAMs for MASS remains questionable. Reasons for so are the ambiguous character of the regulations, especially COLREG, as well as virtually all existing CAMs being at best only partly COLREG-compliant.
The Impact of Urban Expansion on the Urban Thermal Environment: A Case Study in Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
Authors: Zhang Jianping , Jiao Gengying , Ye Qing , Gu Xinren
Published: December 2022

Urban expansion has been changing the urban thermal environment. Understanding the spatial distribution and temporal trends in the urban thermal environment is important in guiding sustainable urbanization. In this study, we focused on the land use/land cover (LULC) changes and urban expansion in Nanchang city, Jiangxi province, China. The four elements in the remote sensing-based ecological index (RSEI) are heat, greenness, dryness, and wetness, which correspond to the land surface temperature (LST), NDVI, NDBSI, and WET, respectively. According to the synthetic images of the average indices, we conducted temporal trend analysis together with statistical significance test for these images. We conducted partial correlation analyses between LST and NDVI, NDVSI, as well as WET. In addition, we used the LULC maps to analyze the multi-year trends in urban expansion. Then, we superimposed the trends in daytime and nighttime LST in summer on urban expansion area to extract the LST trends at sample locations. The results showed that LULC in Nanchang has substantially changed during the study period. The areas with statistically significant trends in LST coincided with the urban expansion areas. Land cover change was the main reason for LST change in Nanchang. In particular, artificial surfaces showed the greatest increase in LST; for per 100 km2 expansion in artificial surfaces, the daytime and nighttime LST increased by 0.8 °C and 0.7 °C, respectively. Among all the study land cover types, water bodies showed the greatest differences in LST change between the daytime and nighttime. There were statistically significant correlations between increases in LST and increases in NDBSI as well as decreases in NDVI and WET. In view of the considerable impact of urban expansion on the urban thermal environment, we urge local authorities to emphasize on urban greening when carrying out urban planning and construction.
The Importance of Agricultural Export Performance on the Economic Growth of Indonesia: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Arifah Khilda Faoziyah , Kim Jonghwa
Published: December 2022

The agriculture sector has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In Indonesia, agriculture is the most cultivated sector, especially in rural areas. During the COVID-pandemic, agriculture survived and positively contributed to economic growth. In light of this, this study aimed to investigate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on agricultural export and also the impact of agriculture export during the COVID-19 pandemic on economic growth. We also give some recommendations on ways to enhance agriculture export performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Indonesia agricultural export quarterly panel data from the years 2012 to 2021 were analyzed with the 2SLS regression model. Agriculture export was used as an endogenous variable and the COVID-19 pandemic was used as a dummy variable to reflect the number of years since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The empirical results demonstrate that agriculture export and the COVID-19 pandemic have positively affected economic growth. A 1% increase in agriculture export and the COVID-19 pandemic may increase economic growth by 0.69% and 0.16%, respectively. In contrast, the labor force and inflation were found to have inverse effects on economic growth. Therefore, we recommend that, during the COVID-19 pandemic, agriculture export should be used as an alternative way to increase economic growth. Policies could be developed to increase the agricultural export value.
Spatial and Temporal Characteristics and Influencing Factors of G20 Box Office Revenues: A Film Geography Perspective
Authors: Wang Jiejie , Zhang Mengli , Adams Paul , Zheng Peng , Wang Xiaoli
Published: December 2022

The geography of film is an interdisciplinary field of geography and communication. Understanding the spatial and temporal characteristics of the global box office scale represented by the G20 is important for expanding the research scope of film geography focusing on “space” and promoting the development of film industries around the world. This paper studies the spatial and temporal characteristics and influencing factors of G20 box office revenues 2003–2019 using the Theil coefficient, spatial analysis, and a panel vector auto-regressive model. According to the research: (1) the distribution of the top box office revenues within the G20 is obvious; the scale differences among these countries are gradually decreasing and the scale differences between China and the United States are the most significant; (2) the box office differences of the G20 are gradually decreasing; the Asian movie market represented by China and South Korea is developing rapidly; (3) from the perspective of the transfer of movie box office scale types within a Markov Chain, the number of countries in type II and III is the largest and the transfer among different types is mainly to high-level types; and (4) the factors influencing the box office of G20 movies are the number of screens, per capita gross national income, the working-age population, and GDP, respectively.
A Review of the Force-Transferring Mechanism of Entirely Grouted Cable Tendons Performed with Experimental Pull Tests
Authors: Chen Jianhang , Wu Baoyang , Li Peng , Zhang Guojun , Yuan Yong
Published: December 2022

Entirely grouted cable tendons are commonly used in mining engineering. They have superior working ability in reinforcing the excavated rocks and soils. During the working process of cable tendons, the force-transferring ability and the corresponding mechanism are significant in guaranteeing the safety of underground openings. To further understand the force-transferring mechanism of entirely grouted cable tendons, this paper provided a literature review on the force transfer of cable tendons. First, the force-transferring concept of entirely grouted cable tendons was summarised. The force-transferring process and failure modes of cable tendons were illustrated. Then, the experimental test program used in testing the entirely grouted cable tendons was summarised. The advantages and disadvantages of various test programs were illustrated. After that, the working ability of entirely grouted cable tendons was reviewed. The effect of various parameters on the working ability of cable tendons was summarised and compared. These parameters include the rock stiffness, embedment length, cement grout property, resin grout property, modified geometry, borehole size, rotation and pre-tensioning. Last, a discussion was provided to elaborate the working ability and force-transferring mechanism of entirely grouted cable bolts. This literature review is beneficial for researchers and engineers, furthering their understanding of the working ability of cable tendons.
Analysis of the Effects of Perceived Value, Price Sensitivity, Word-of-Mouth, and Customer Satisfaction on Repurchase Intentions of Safety Shoes under the Consideration of Sustainability
Authors: Lin Tyrone T. , Yeh Yu-Qi , Hsu Shu-Yen
Published: December 2022

This study explored the effects of perceived value, price sensitivity, word-of-mouth, and customer satisfaction on the repurchase intentions of consumers who had purchased safety shoes. The survey was conducted from 15 December 2021 to 15 February 2022. A total of 621 valid questionnaires were analyzed by structural equation modeling. The empirical results show that perceived value significantly positively affected customer satisfaction, word-of-mouth, and repurchase intention. Customer satisfaction had a significant positive effect on word-of-mouth and repurchase intention. Price sensitivity and word-of-mouth had a significant positive effect on repurchase intention. Customer satisfaction and word-of-mouth partially mediated between perceived value and repurchase intention. However, there was no mediation effect between price sensitivity and repurchase intention. Thus, price sensitivity directly affected consumers’ repurchase intentions. Based on the results, this study proposed suggestions to practitioners, such as emphasizing the eco-design of safety shoes and promoting environmental sustainability to enhance consumers’ perceived value, as well as understanding the consumers’ price sensitivity to the product. The findings can provide practitioners with references regarding operational strategies to promote sustainable business operations globally amid the present environment, social, and governance wave.
Resource Carrying Capacity Evaluation Based on Fuzzy Evaluation: Validation Using Karst Landscape Region in Southwest China
Authors: Min Xinhao , Wang Yanning , Chen Jun
Published: December 2022

The problems of regional resource shortage, fragile ecological environment and unbalanced social development are becoming increasingly serious. There is an urgent need for rational evaluation and planning of resources and the environment. This paper presents a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method combined with Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and shortcoming element evaluation to analyze the resource and environmental bearing capacity of a certain region. The proposed model was verified by backing data analysis from a karst landscape region in southwest China. Short board element analysis was employed for further study. The results show that (a) the calculation results of the evaluation system used in this paper are consistent with the actual situation. The method can be effectively used in the field of resource and environmental carrying capacity evaluation. (b) The environmental carrying capacity is the largest in this region, followed by the resource carrying capacity, and the socio-economic carrying capacity is the smallest. (c) The region has a sufficient environmental carrying capacity on the whole, the resource conditions are weak and the socio-economic development is backward. The analysis of the evaluation results provides a scientific basis for the rational use of resources, territorial spatial planning, sustainable socio-economic development and ecological environmental protection strategies in karst mountainous areas.
Development and Application of an Environmental Education Tool (Board Game) for Teaching Integrated Resource Management of the Water Cycle on Coral Reef Islands
Authors: Shimabukuro Miyuki , Toki Tomohiro , Shimabukuro Hitoshi , Kubo Yoshiaki , Takahashi Soyo , Shinjo Ryuichi
Published: December 2022

To solve resource issues on coral reef islands, an understanding of the water cycle is essential. Water resource management is intricately linked to diverse occupational industries and coral reef ecosystems on these islands. To effectively promote sustainable natural resource management, we developed a board game as an environmental education and communication tool for school students and people of all ages. The concept of the game is that “clean water will always be available if it is used properly”. The board game was designed based on an island with an underground freshwater lens as its main water resource. Role-playing was used to enhance islander livelihoods such as with vegetable and livestock farming, fishing, and tourism. Players, while working collaboratively, have to use the island’s groundwater adequately and conserve it for future generations. The game was developed through a transdisciplinary process in collaboration with scientists, administrative officers, civic groups, and students. Additionally, the board game was tested in diverse communities. In this study, we elaborated on the board game after it was played by students at an elementary school on Tarama Island. We observed that participants learned that cooperation is important for the sustainable use of water resources. Moreover, the participants proposed two methods for cooperation: joint discussion and ‘assembly decisions’. The board game has the potential to be used as an effective environmental education tool to promote sustainable water resource management on coral reef islands.
Carbon Footprint of Single-Use Plastic Items and Their Substitution
Authors: Di Paolo Luca , Abbate Simona , Celani Eliseo , Di Battista Davide , Candeloro Giovanni
Published: December 2022

Single-use plastic is having a significant environmental impact and its reduction is a mandatory step to reduce plastic pollution worldwide. Indeed, the time that a plastic item can persist in the environment is very long and it is well known that it can produce devastating effects in particular in seas and oceans. Moreover, production, use and disposal of plastic items have a significant impact also on the greenhouse effect; this can be estimated in a life cycle approach, by evaluating their carbon footprint. In this work, a review of the carbon footprint evaluation of different single-use plastic categories has been carried out, developing a methodology to immediately evaluate the benefits related to their substitution with compostable and bio-plastic and/or multiple-use items and materials. The result of the novel methodology developed is a certain number of matrixes, which can categorize impact values in order to compare them with replacement with bio-based plastic materials or multi-use things. Finally, the methodology was tested and validated through a case study, where a plastic reduction plan was proposed and implemented and the CO2 equivalent reduction was assessed, demonstrating a reduction potential related to a replacement by bioplastic or other materials equal, respectively, to 73% and 90%.
Insect Pest Pheromone Lures May Enhance the Activity of Insectivorous Bats in Mediterranean Vineyards and Apple Orchards
Authors: Korine Carmi , Cohen Yuval , Kahnonitch Idan
Published: December 2022

Insectivorous bats may play a significant role in regulating populations of agricultural pests. Currently, few methods are available to enhance the activity of bats in agroecosystems. We asked whether synthetic sex pheromones, used in integrated pest management (IPM) to impede the mating success of major moth pests in vineyards and apple orchards, could also enhance the activity and richness of insectivorous bats, their natural enemies. We hypothesized that applying concentrated sex pheromones of pest moths will alter the movement patterns of male moths, indirectly affecting bat richness and activity. We compared the effect of sex pheromones on bats under two different agricultural management systems: conventional farming and IPM. We used synthetic sex pheromones of Lobesia botrana or Cydia pomonella; both are among the most destructive moth pests in vineyards and apple orchards, respectively. Using passive acoustic monitoring, we compared species richness and bat activity in plots without and with additional pheromones. In both IPM vineyards and IPM apple orchards, total bat activity and species richness significantly increased after applying the pheromone treatment, with a positive correlation between total bat activity and the numbers of moth pests in the vineyards. In conventional vineyards, bat species richness increased significantly, but not total bat activity. IPM vineyards had significantly higher species richness than conventional vineyards, both before and after the pheromone treatment. Our study shows that moth pheromone lures, commonly used as a pest control method, may also attract insectivorous bats, which in turn may further suppress the pests. These findings highlight the potential of insectivorous bats as pest control agents and call for further research directed at integrating them in IPM practices.
Classification of Electrocardiogram Signals Based on Hybrid Deep Learning Models
Authors: Bhatia Surbhi , Pandey Saroj Kumar , Kumar Ankit , Alshuhail Asma
Published: December 2022

According to the analysis of the World Health Organization (WHO), the diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases is the most difficult task. Several algorithms for the classification of arrhythmic heartbeats from electrocardiogram (ECG) signals have been developed over the past few decades, using computer-aided diagnosis systems. Deep learning architecture adaption is a recent effective advancement of deep learning techniques in the field of artificial intelligence. In this study, we developed a new deep convolutional neural network (CNN) and bidirectional long-term short-term memory network (BLSTM) model to automatically classify ECG heartbeats into five different groups based on the ANSI-AAMI standard. End-to-end learning (feature extraction and classification work together) is done in this hybrid model without extracting manual features. The experiment is performed on the publicly accessible PhysioNet MIT-BIH arrhythmia database, and the findings are compared with results from the other two hybrid deep learning models, which are a combination of CNN and LSTM and CNN and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU). The performance of the model is also compared with existing works cited in the literature. Using the SMOTE approach, this database was artificially oversampled to address the class imbalance problem. This new hybrid model was trained on the oversampled ECG database and validated using tenfold cross-validation on the actual test dataset. According to experimental observations, the developed hybrid model outperforms in terms of recall, precision, accuracy and F-score performance of the hybrid model are 94.36%, 89.4%, 98.36% and 91.67%, respectively, which is better than the existing methods.
The Performance of S Control Charts for the Lognormal Distribution with Estimated Parameters
Authors: Huang Wei-Heng
Published: December 2022

Control charts, one of the powerful tools in statistical process control (SPC), are widely used to monitor and detect out-of-control processes in the manufacturing industry. Many researchers have pointed out the effects of using estimated parameters on the average run length (ARL) performance metric. Most of the previous literature has studied the expected value of the average run length (AARL) and the standard deviation of the average run length (SDARL) to evaluate the performance of control charts. In this article, we study the performance of three S control charts, the Shewhart S-chart, the median absolute deviation (MAD) control chart, and the lognormal S control chart, for a lognormal distribution in terms of the AARL and SDARL. Simulation results indicate the sample size to reach the specified in-control ARL value is very large. The lognormal S control chart has a smaller SDARL value than the other two S-charts.
Mesoscopic Failure Behavior of Strip Footing on Geosynthetic-Reinforced Granular Soil Foundations Using PIV Technology
Authors: Wang Zhongmei , Lai Zhiqiang , Zhao Lianjun , Lai Kangwei , Pan Li
Published: December 2022

Two-dimensional model tests combined with PIV technology were conducted to study the failure behavior of strip footing on geosynthetic-reinforced granular soil foundations on a mesoscale. The results showed that geosynthetic reinforcements improve the bearing capacity of granular soil foundations; however, the effectiveness of the reinforcement was affected by the position, length, and number of geosynthetics. The mesoscale factor affecting the reinforcement effectiveness was the size of the sliding wedge in the foundation, which was changed by the embedded geosynthetics. As the depth, length, number, and vertical spacing of the reinforcements varied, three possible failure modes occurred in the reinforced foundations: failure above the top reinforcement layer, failure between reinforcement layers, and failure similar to footings on the unreinforced foundation.
A Field Study of Soil Plugging of Jacked Pile and Its Effect on the Pile Resistance
Authors: Chen Zhong , Ji Peng , Zhai Qian , Li Minjie , Zheng Zhipeng , Shen Tianlun
Published: December 2022

Both a static pile load test and cone penetration test were conducted in a field to investigate the effect of soil plugging on the ultimate bearing capacity of a pile. Both the force equilibrium method and Terzaghi’s method were adopted for the theoretical analysis of the soil plugging effect during the pile setting process. Consequently, a new equation was proposed for the estimation of the height of soil plugging. It is observed that the process of pile settlement can be divided into three stages: (i) the soil plugging is initially formed; (ii) the soil plugging reaches its maximum height; and (iii) force equilibrium is reached with a constant soil plugging height. The proposed method in this paper provides an alternative method for the assessment of the height of soil plugging and its effect on the ultimate bearing capacity of the jacked pile.
Financial Health and Self-Sustainability of a Small European Football League: The Realities of Top-Flight Croatian Football
Authors: Alajbeg Denis , Bubas Zoran , Moric Milovanovic Bojan
Published: December 2022

This study aims to evaluate the financial health of Croatian top division clubs, locate their primary source of funding, and assess their capacity for self-sustainability. To conclude the current financial condition and long-term (un)sustainability of Croatian club football, selected financial categories and ratios for HNL clubs from 2018 to 2021 were compared with UEFA benchmarks. The horizontal financial analysis results were presented in aggregate league- and individual club-level form and compared to other leagues, averages, and UEFA recommendations. The research revealed significant operating losses covered by net transfer income, unacceptable high wage-to-revenue ratios, and inferior operating margins. Financial stability should not be upheld only as a means to an end for UEFA licensing but for the long-term viability of every football club and the community in which it is embedded. A focus on long-term internal, organic development (i.e., investing in academies, infrastructure, technology, and human capital, as well as actively supporting young players in the first eleven) can yield an edge against more prosperous competition. Without it, top Croatian clubs will eventually realize that the stream of talented players will thin out and, with it, the golden vein that keeps them financially alive.
Solar-Powered Direct Contact Membrane Distillation System: Performance and Water Cost Evaluation
Authors: Soomro Mujeeb Iqbal , Kumar Sanjay , Ullah Asad , Shar Muhammad Ali , Alhazaa Abdulaziz
Published: December 2022

Fresh water is crucial for life, supporting human civilizations and ecosystems, and its production is one of the global issues. To cope with this issue, we evaluated the performance and cost of a solar-powered direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) unit for fresh water production in Karachi, Pakistan. The solar water heating system (SWHS) was evaluated with the help of a system advisor model (SAM) tool. The evaluation of the DCMD unit was performed by solving the DCMD mathematical model through a numerical iterative method in MATLAB software®. For the SWHS, the simulation results showed that the highest average temperature of 55.05 °C and lowest average temperature of 44.26 °C were achieved in May and December, respectively. The capacity factor and solar fraction of the SWHS were found to be 27.9% and 87%, respectively. An exponential increase from 11.4 kg/m2·h to 23.23 kg/m2·h in permeate flux was observed when increasing the hot water temperatures from 44 °C to 56 °C. In the proposed system, a maximum of 279.82 L/day fresh water was produced in May and a minimum of 146.83 L/day in January. On average, the solar-powered DCMD system produced 217.66 L/day with a levelized water cost of 23.01 USD/m3.
An Improved Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm Based on Angle Preference
Authors: Ling Qing-Hua , Tang Zhi-Hao , Huang Gan , Han Fei
Published: December 2022

Multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithms based on angle preference provide a set of preferred solutions by incorporating a user’s preference. However, since the search mechanism is stochastic and asymmetric, traditional MOPSO based on angle preference are still easy to fall into local optima and lack enough selection pressure on excellent individuals. In this paper, an improved MOPSO algorithm based on angle preference called IAPMOPSO is proposed to alleviate those problems. First, to create a stricter partial order among the non-dominated solutions, reference vectors are established in the preference region, and the adaptive penalty-based boundary intersection (PBI) value is used to update the external archive. Second, to effectively alleviate the swarm to fall into local optima, an adaptive preference angle is designed to increase the diversity of the population. Third, neighborhood individuals are selected for each particle to update the individual optimum to increase the information exchange among the particles. With the proposed angle preference-based external archive update strategy, solutions with a smaller PBI are given higher priority to be selected, and thus the selection pressure on excellent individuals is enhanced. In terms of an increase in the diversity of the population, the adaptive preference angle adjustment strategy that gradually narrows the preferred area, and the individual optimum update strategy which updates the individual optimum according to the information of neighborhood individuals, are presented. The experimental results on the benchmark test functions and GEM data verify the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed method.
Gas Cooled Graphite Moderated and Pressurized Water Reactor the Optimal Choice for Nuclear Power Plants Based on a New Group Decision-Making Technique
Authors: Khalaf Mohammed M. , Ismail Rashad , Al-Shamiri Mohammed M. Ali , Abdelwahab Abdelazeem M.
Published: December 2022

The aim of this work is to introduce the novel concept of an m-polar fuzzy soft set, including various types of algorithms and their fundamental operations. We created mathematical modeling to analyze operational rules and discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and natural aspects of algorithms for six types of nuclear power plants. It has been determined that emerging trends and the benefits of algorithms are increasing step by step. The suggested modeling with an m-polar fuzzy soft set is integrated into the fuzzy mean environment to analyze the effect of the correlation between decision factors and decision results without an excessive duty cycle, thus minimizing energy use and other adverse effects. Based on a new group decision-making technique considering an asymmetric weight vector, we proved that Gas Cooled, Graphite-Moderated, and Pressurized Water Reactors are the optimal choices for nuclear power plants. In the end, a numerical illustration is provided for selecting the best photo to demonstrate the use of the generated technique and to exhibit its adequacy.
Design, Simulation and Experimental Evaluation of Hot-Stamped 22MnB5 Steel Autobody Part
Authors: Skowronek Adam , Wróbel Ireneusz , Grajcar Adam
Published: December 2022

The combination of complex geometry and martensitic microstructure, characterized by ultrahigh strength and hardness, can be obtained in a single hot stamping process. However, this technology requires a multifaceted approach, allowing for an effective and efficient design process that will ensure the elements with the desired properties and shape are produced because of the high tool cost. This paper presents a comprehensive case study of the design process, simulation and experimental evaluation of the hot forming of an automotive door beam. The U-shaped beam designed with CAD was analyzed using the finite element method in the Autoform v.10 software. The modeling process included: a shape definition of the flat blank; a FEM analysis and design of the die, punches, and clamps; and a forming and quenching simulation. The results covered visualization of the forming and quenching stages for different variables including a forming limit diagram; a distribution of the drawpiece thinning; and a diagram showing the hardness of the drawpiece and its microstructure. Based on the results, a full-size tool for hot stamping was first modeled in the CAD and next manufactured. The tool was used to produce an initial sample series that was used to investigate the conditions for continuous use of the tool. One of the produced hot-stamped products was investigated for its hardness and microstructure, which exhibited a beneficial and fully martensitic microstructure with high hardness of above 400 HV1.
Nickel Nanoparticles Anchored on Activated Attapulgite Clay for Ammonia Decomposition to Hydrogen
Authors: Zhang Ling-Feng , Hu Zhong-Pan , Liang Shi-Hang , Xu Feng , Yuan Zhong-Yong
Published: December 2022

Ammonia decomposition to hydrogen technique is an effectively way to solve the problems associated with the storage and transportation of hydrogen, but the development of a high-performance catalyst for ammonia decomposition is a great challenge. Ni species supported on activated attapulgite clay (AATP) is prepared by a homogeneous precipitation method for ammonia decomposition to COx-free H2. The structural properties of the Ni/AATP catalysts are characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, H2 temperature-programmed reduction, and N2 sorption technique. It is revealed that the porous structure and high surface area of rod-like symmetric AATP results in highly dispersed NiO particles because the presence of a strong interaction between AATP and NiO particles. In particular, the Si-OH in AATP can react with Ni species, forming Si-O-Ni species at the interface between Ni and AATP. The Ni/AAPT catalysts are used for ammonia decomposition, the 20%-Ni/ATTP catalyst shows a 95.3% NH3 conversion with 31.9 mmol min−1 gcat−1 H2 formation rate at 650 °C. This study opens a new way to utilize natural minerals as an efficient support of catalysts towards ammonia decomposition reaction.