bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DietSensor: Automatic Dietary Intake Measurement Using Mobile 3D Scanning Sensor for Diabetic Patients
Authors: Makhsous Sepehr , Bharadwaj Mukund , Atkinson Benjamin E. , Novosselov Igor V. , Mamishev Alexander V.
Published: June 2020

Diabetes is a global epidemic that impacts millions of people every year. Enhanced dietary assessment techniques are critical for maintaining a healthy life for a diabetic patient. Moreover, hospitals must monitor their diabetic patients’ food intake to prescribe a certain amount of insulin. Malnutrition significantly increases patient mortality, the duration of the hospital stay, and, ultimately, medical costs. Currently, hospitals are not fully equipped to measure and track a patient’s nutritional intake, and the existing solutions require an extensive user input, which introduces a lot of human errors causing endocrinologists to overlook the measurement. This paper presents DietSensor, a wearable three-dimensional (3D) measurement system, which uses an over the counter 3D camera to assist the hospital personnel with measuring a patient’s nutritional intake. The structured environment of the hospital provides the opportunity to have access to the total nutritional data of any meal prepared in the kitchen as a cloud database. DietSensor uses the 3D scans and correlates them with the hospital kitchen database to calculate the exact consumed nutrition by the patient. The system was tested on twelve volunteers with no prior background or familiarity with the system. The overall calculated nutrition from the DietSensor phone application was compared with the outputs from the 24-h dietary recall (24HR) web application and MyFitnessPal phone application. The average absolute error on the collected data was 73%, 51%, and 33% for the 24HR, MyFitnessPal, and DietSensor systems, respectively.
Bolt-Loosening Monitoring Framework Using an Image-Based Deep Learning and Graphical Model
Authors: Pham Hai Chien , Ta Quoc-Bao , Kim Jeong-Tae , Ho Duc-Duy , Tran Xuan-Linh , Huynh Thanh-Canh
Published: June 2020

In this study, we investigate a novel idea of using synthetic images of bolts which are generated from a graphical model to train a deep learning model for loosened bolt detection. Firstly, a framework for bolt-loosening detection using image-based deep learning and computer graphics is proposed. Next, the feasibility of the proposed framework is demonstrated through the bolt-loosening monitoring of a lab-scaled bolted joint model. For practicality, the proposed idea is evaluated on the real-scale bolted connections of a historical truss bridge in Danang, Vietnam. The results show that the deep learning model trained by the synthesized images can achieve accurate bolt recognitions and looseness detections. The proposed methodology could help to reduce the time and cost associated with the collection of high-quality training data and further accelerate the applicability of vision-based deep learning models trained on synthetic data in practice.
A Detection and Tracking Algorithm for Resolvable Group with Structural and Formation Changes Using the Gibbs-GLMB Filter
Authors: Ru Xinfeng , Chi Yudong , Liu Weifeng
Published: June 2020

In the field of resolvable group target tracking, further study on the structure and formation of group targets is helpful to reduce the tracking error of group bluetargets. In this paper, we propose an algorithm to detect whether the structure or formation state of group targets changes. In this paper, a Gibbs Generalized Labeled Multi-Bernoulli (GLMB) filter is used to obtain the estimation of discernible group target bluestates. After obtaining the state estimation of the group target, we extract relevant information based on the estimation data to judge whether the structure or formation state has changed. Finally, several experiments are carried out to verify the algorithm.
Semantic-Based Building Extraction from LiDAR Point Clouds Using Contexts and Optimization in Complex Environment
Authors: Wang Yongjun , Jiang Tengping , Yu Min , Tao Shuaibing , Sun Jian , Liu Shan
Published: June 2020

The extraction of buildings has been an essential part of the field of LiDAR point clouds processing in recent years. However, it is still challenging to extract buildings from huge amount of point clouds due to the complicated and incomplete structures, occlusions and local similarities between different categories in a complex environment. Taking the urban and campus scene as examples, this paper presents a versatile and hierarchical semantic-based method for building extraction using LiDAR point clouds. The proposed method first performs a series of preprocessing operations, such as removing ground points, establishing super-points and using them as primitives for subsequent processing, and then semantically labels the raw LiDAR data. In the feature engineering process, considering the purpose of this article is to extract buildings, we tend to choose the features extracted from super-points that can describe building for the next classification. There are a portion of inaccurate labeling results due to incomplete or overly complex scenes, a Markov Random Field (MRF) optimization model is constructed for postprocessing and segmentation results refinement. Finally, the buildings are extracted from the labeled points. Experimental verification was performed on three datasets in different scenes, our results were compared with the state-of-the-art methods. These evaluation results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method for extracting buildings from LiDAR point clouds in multiple environments.
Color Image Generation from LiDAR Reflection Data by Using Selected Connection UNET
Authors: Kim Hyun-Koo , Yoo Kook-Yeol , Jung Ho-Youl
Published: June 2020

In this paper, a modified encoder-decoder structured fully convolutional network (ED-FCN) is proposed to generate the camera-like color image from the light detection and ranging (LiDAR) reflection image. Previously, we showed the possibility to generate a color image from a heterogeneous source using the asymmetric ED-FCN. In addition, modified ED-FCNs, i.e., UNET and selected connection UNET (SC-UNET), have been successfully applied to the biomedical image segmentation and concealed-object detection for military purposes, respectively. In this paper, we apply the SC-UNET to generate a color image from a heterogeneous image. Various connections between encoder and decoder are analyzed. The LiDAR reflection image has only 5.28% valid values, i.e., its data are extremely sparse. The severe sparseness of the reflection image limits the generation performance when the UNET is applied directly to this heterogeneous image generation. In this paper, we present a methodology of network connection in SC-UNET that considers the sparseness of each level in the encoder network and the similarity between the same levels of encoder and decoder networks. The simulation results show that the proposed SC-UNET with the connection between encoder and decoder at two lowest levels yields improvements of 3.87 dB and 0.17 in peak signal-to-noise ratio and structural similarity, respectively, over the conventional asymmetric ED-FCN. The methodology presented in this paper would be a powerful tool for generating data from heterogeneous sources.
Reshaping Field of View and Resolution with Segmented Reflectors: Bridging the Gap between Rotating and Solid-State LiDARs
Authors: Aalerud Atle , Dybedal Joacim , Subedi Dipendra
Published: June 2020

This paper describes the first simulations and experimental results of a novel segmented Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) reflector. Large portions of the rotating LiDAR data are typically discarded due to occlusion or a misplaced field of view (FOV). The proposed reflector solves this problem by reflecting the entire FOV of the rotating LiDAR towards a target. Optical simulation results, using Zemax OpticStudio, suggest that adding a reflector reduces the range of the embedded LiDAR with only 3.9 %. Furthermore, pattern simulation results show that a radially reshaped FOV can be configured to maximize point cloud density, maximize coverage, or a combination. Here, the maximum density is defined by the number of mirror segments in the reflector. Finally, a prototype was used for validation. Intensity, Euclidean error, and sample standard deviation were evaluated and, except for reduced-intensity values, no significant reduction in the LiDAR’s performance was found. Conversely, the number of usable measurements increased drastically. The mirrors of the reflector give the LiDAR multiple viewpoints to the target. Ultimately, it is argued that this can enhance the object revisit rate, instantaneous resolution, object classification range, and robustness against occlusion and adverse weather conditions. Consequently, the reflector design enables long-range rotating LiDARs to achieve the robust super-resolution needed for autonomous driving at highway speeds.
Job Satisfaction in Direct Support Professionals: Associations with Self-Efficacy and Perspective-Taking
Authors: Flynn Sarah N. , Harrington Hunter J. , Knott Maddison K. , Lin Hung-Chu
Published: June 2020

Direct support professionals (DSPs) play a vital role in supporting and sustaining the life qualities of individuals with developmental disabilities (DDs). The occupation is often challenging due to a multitude of workplace deficiencies and certain challenging behaviors associated with DDs. The demanding nature of job duties can cause compromised job satisfaction in DSPs, which in turn potentially undermines the quality of care they provide to individuals with DDs. The literature is limited addressing how psychosocial factors relate to job satisfaction specifically in DSPs. The present study examined self-efficacy as a psychosocial correlate for job satisfaction in DSPs and how one’s disposition for perspective-taking functioned as a moderator for the relationship between self-efficacy and job satisfaction. A sample of 133 DSPs responded to self-report measures for self-efficacy, job satisfaction, and perspective-taking. The results of multivariate regression indicated a positive relation between self-efficacy and intrinsic job satisfaction in DSPs, and the relation strengthened as the level of perspective-taking increased, suggesting a moderating role of perspective-taking in DSPs. The findings provide insights for targeting psychosocial correlates as an important element in training programs aimed at improving intrinsic satisfaction in DSPs.
Review of Research Trends in Learning and the Internet in Higher Education
Authors: Segura-Robles Adrián , Moreno-Guerrero Antonio-José , Parra-González María-Elena , López-Belmonte Jesús
Published: June 2020

Within the scientific literature, there has been much debate about the use of the Internet in teaching in university contexts. The potential of this tool and its educational possibilities is well documented. The main purpose of this study is to analyze the use of the Internet in university teaching from a bibliometric perspective. To analyze scientific works, scientific mapping strategies have been used; for example, exploring the co-words and co-authors in works on this topic. We have worked with an analysis unit of 5118 documents which are indexed in the Web of Science database. Among the findings of this research, it can be highlighted that most publications are in English—the topic has been thoroughly studied and works have been published in this language over time. Moreover, the United States is the country which is most productive in relation to educational and computing fields. The most relevant topics themes are “e-learning”, “systems” and “Internet of Things”.
Critical Debates and Developments in Child Protection: Some Introductory Comments
Authors: Parton Nigel
Published: June 2020

I would like to begin by thanking all of the authors who have contributed to this Social Sciences Special on “critical debates and developments in child protection” for their hard work and timely dedication in responding so positively to the requests and timelines made of them [...]
No Power without Knowledge: A Discursive Subjectivities Approach to Investigate Climate-Induced (Im)mobility and Wellbeing
Authors: Ayeb-Karlsson Sonja
Published: June 2020

During the last few decades we have seen a rapid growth in the body of literature on climate-induced human mobility or environmental migration. Meanwhile, in-depth people-centred studies investigating people’s (im)mobility decision-making as a highly complex and sociopsychological process are scarce. This is problematic as human decision-making behaviour and responses—including their success or failure—closely align with people’s wellbeing status. In this article, elaborations around why these under-representations of research narratives and existing methods will guide us towards a solution. The article proposes a conceptual model to help fill this gap that is inspired by Michel Foucault’s power and knowledge relationship and discursive subjectivities. The conceptual idea introduced by the article offers as a replicable approach and potential way forward that can support widening empirical research in the area of climate-induced (im)mobility decision-making and wellbeing.
Match Demands of Women’s Collegiate Soccer
Authors: Jagim Andrew R. , Murphy Jason , Schaefer Alexis Q. , Askow Andrew T. , Luedke Joel A. , Erickson Jacob L. , Jones Margaret T.
Published: June 2020

Research describing the match and specific positional demands during match play in women’s collegiate soccer is limited. The purpose of the study was to quantify the match demands of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III soccer and assess position differences in movement kinematics, heart rate (HR), and energy expenditure. Twenty-five Division III women soccer players (height: 1.61 ± 0.3 m; body mass: 66.7 ± 7.5 kg; fat-free mass: 50.3 ± 6.5 kg; body fat%: 25.6 ± 5.1%) were equipped with a wearable global positioning system to assess the demands of 22 matches throughout a season. Players were categorized by position (goal keepers (GK), center defenders (CB), flank players (FP), forwards (F), and center midfielders (CM)). Players covered 9807 ± 2588 m and 1019 ± 552 m at high speeds (>249.6 m·m−1), with an overall average speed of 62.85 ± 14.7 m·m−1. This resulted in a mean HR of 74.2 ± 6% HR max and energy expenditure of 1259 ± 309 kcal. Significant and meaningful differences in movement kinematics were observed across position groups. CM covered the most distance resulting in the highest training load. FP covered the most distance at high speeds and mean HR values were highest in CM, CB, and FP positions.
How Do You See Infrastructure? Green Energy to Provide Economic Growth after COVID-19
Authors: D’Adamo Idiano , Rosa Paolo
Published: June 2020

Climate change has determined the deterioration of the ecosystem, but some politicians deny this evidence. There is a relationship between sustainability and resilience, and COVID-19 has demonstrated that life can change quickly. Social and economic disaster share a close bond. Can the realization of a great plan for infrastructure support the planet’s rebirth? This is the key role of the green economy.
Technology-enhanced Auditing in Voluntary Sustainability Standards: The Impact of COVID-19
Authors: Castka Pavel , Searcy Cory , Fischer Sönke
Published: June 2020

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the certification and auditing services of Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS). The traditional approach to auditing—on-site visits—has been significantly curtailed, and it is unclear when, and under what conditions, it might resume in full. The purpose of this paper is to study the initial responses to COVID-19 of leading VSS—a group of 21 standards that are members of ISEAL, a global membership organization for VSS. This is a qualitative study, and data are collected from publicly-available sources (i.e., official announcements, policy amendments, derogations) in order to inductively analyze how individual VSS have adjusted their certification services in response to travel bans and lockdowns. The emphasis of the analysis was understanding the role of technologies in the VSS responses to the COVID-19 crisis. The findings demonstrate significant uptake of remote auditing and information and communications technology (ICT), even though that uptake is constrained by limiting conditions and it is not currently expected by VSS to extend beyond the crisis. Lessons learned from the crisis are discussed, and the potential for remote auditing during this period to encourage the adoption of more advanced technologies (such as artificial intelligence and satellite monitoring) in certification services is explored. A set of research questions to guide future work grounded in the analysis is also provided.
The Use of Superabsorbent Polymers in High Performance Concrete to Mitigate Autogenous Shrinkage in a Large-Scale Demonstrator
Authors: De Meyst Laurence , Kheir Judy , Tenório Filho José Roberto , Van Tittelboom Kim , De Belie Nele
Published: June 2020

High performance concrete (HPC) is a high strength concrete that undergoes a lot of early-age autogenous shrinkage (AS). If shrinkage is restrained, then micro-cracks arise and threaten the durability of the structure. Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) can reduce/mitigate the autogenous shrinkage, due to their promising application as internal curing agents. In this paper, large-scale demonstrators were built to investigate the efficiency of SAPs to mitigate autogenous shrinkage in HPC. For this purpose, different measurement techniques were used like embedded fiber optic sensors and demountable mechanical strain gauges, complemented by AS measurements in corrugated tubes and restrained ring tests. The SAP wall showed an AS reduction of 22%, 54%, and 60% at the bottom, middle, and top, respectively, as recorded by the sensors (in comparison with the reference wall (REF)). In the corrugated tubes, mitigation of AS was shown in the SAP mixture, and under restrained conditions, in the ring test, the reference mixture cracked after two days, while the SAP mixture had not cracked at the end of the measurement period (20 days). Cracks were shown on REF wall after one day, while the SAP wall was crack-free. Water flow tests performed on the main crack of the REF wall confirmed that the flow rate is related to the third power of the crack width. All tests showed that SAPs could highly reduce AS in HPC and avoid cracking.
Transforming Built Environments: Towards Carbon Neutral and Blue-Green Cities
Authors: Newton Peter W. , Rogers Briony C.
Published: June 2020

In the 21st century, the creation of built environments that are carbon neutral and water sensitive is critical for addressing sustainable urban development challenges. Both require transformative change: Decarbonisation to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and incorporation of green-blue water sensitive solutions to adapt to climate change impacts. Transition pathways in both arenas involve combinations of new technology, innovative urban design, enabling policies and regulations, new processes for planning and managing urban development, and demand-side changes in consumer attitudes and practices for urban living related to energy and water use. In this paper, we present new knowledge, concepts and frameworks developed for application in Australia, as well as internationally, through research by the national Cooperative Research Centres for Low Carbon Living (CRCLCL) and Water Sensitive Cities (CRCWSC) between 2012 and 2020. These findings and outputs illustrate common features of the research strategies and initiatives that were central to the activities of the CRCs, and highlight promising directions for collaborative interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research that drives urban sustainability transformations towards carbon neutral and blue-green cities.
Citizen-Participatory Scenario Design Methodology with Future Design Approach: A Case Study of Visioning of a Low-Carbon Society in Suita City, Japan
Authors: Uwasu Michinori , Kishita Yusuke , Hara Keishiro , Nomaguchi Yutaka
Published: June 2020

A scenario approach is often used to envision sustainable futures. Several important scenario design factors are identified in the literature, which include the demonstration of deliberation and the participation of stakeholders; however, specific methodologies of scenario design are yet to be established. Accordingly, in this study, we demonstrate a series of workshops involving ordinary citizens for energy visioning in Suita city, Japan, and propose a new citizen-participatory scenario design methodology based on the combination of scenario design and future design approaches. It is shown that the inclusion of future generations in deliberation is effective for creating future visions in a specific context and deriving policy implications. Specifically, by analyzing the deliberation process and the proposed scenarios, it was confirmed that the scenarios proposed by future generations were proactive in terms of paying the costs incurred to facilitate the realization of policies toward achieving a long-term vision. Furthermore, even though the proposals made by the future generations imposed additional burdens for current generations, post-workshop scenario assessment revealed that current generations are supportive of these scenarios. It is concluded that the proposed methodology is effective since it can overcome uncertainties, include holistic scopes, and consider a long-term time horizon.
Spatial Simulation Modeling of Settlement Distribution Driven by Random Forest: Consideration of Landscape Visibility
Authors: Zheng Minrui , Tang Wenwu , Ogundiran Akinwumi , Yang Jianxin
Published: June 2020

Settlement models help to understand the social–ecological functioning of landscape and associated land use and land cover change. One of the issues of settlement modeling is that models are typically used to explore the relationship between settlement locations and associated influential factors (e.g., slope and aspect). However, few studies in settlement modeling adopted landscape visibility analysis. Landscape visibility provides useful information for understanding human decision-making associated with the establishment of settlements. In the past years, machine learning algorithms have demonstrated their capabilities in improving the performance of the settlement modeling and particularly capturing the nonlinear relationship between settlement locations and their drivers. However, simulation models using machine learning algorithms in settlement modeling are still not well studied. Moreover, overfitting issues and optimization of model parameters are major challenges for most machine learning algorithms. Therefore, in this study, we sought to pursue two research objectives. First, we aimed to evaluate the contribution of viewsheds and landscape visibility to the simulation modeling of - settlement locations. The second objective is to examine the performance of the machine learning algorithm-based simulation models for settlement location studies. Our study region is located in the metropolitan area of Oyo Empire, Nigeria, West Africa, ca. AD 1570–1830, and its pre-Imperial antecedents, ca. AD 1360–1570. We developed an event-driven spatial simulation model enabled by random forest algorithm to represent dynamics in settlement systems in our study region. Experimental results demonstrate that viewsheds and landscape visibility may offer more insights into unveiling the underlying mechanism that drives settlement locations. Random forest algorithm, as a machine learning algorithm, provide solid support for establishing the relationship between settlement occurrences and their drivers.
Community Participation in Nature Conservation: The Chinese Experience and Its Implication to National Park Management
Authors: He Siyuan , Yang Lingfan , Min Qingwen
Published: June 2020

Rural communities are taking active roles in conservation. However, the basic modes and content of community participatory approach are seldom summarised or reflected on in China, leaving the use of terms confused and their links to practice disconnected. By reviewing the literature, we traced back to the protected area-community relations from the perspective of features of rural communities, namely knowledge accumulation, social bond, collective actions, and risk-aversion, and reflected on changing roles of community conservation through recognition of these features. Combining case studies and our own research experience, we focused on the de facto practices behind the somewhat casual use of several terms and re-classified community participation in conservation to three modes of community participatory management, community co-management, and community dominant management, along a continuum in which, from low to high level, conservation is more a means rather than an end for the community to be empowered for their own resource management. We argued that the success of community participation must ensure stable and flexible land tenure so that the right to benefit can be guaranteed, and the collective action in managing resources can be achieved by empowerment. In practice, further institutional changes of improvement in the legislation and optimisation in benefit sharing and compensation are needed to promote community participation in a broader social participation context.
Assessing the Vulnerability of Agriculture Systems to Climate Change in Coastal Areas: A Novel Index
Authors: Kantamaneni Komali , Rice Louis , Yenneti Komali , Campos Luiza C.
Published: June 2020

This study proposes a novel index to evaluate agricultural vulnerability to climate change in coastal areas, using the case of Andhra Pradesh, the state with the second longest coastline in India. Field data was collected from more than 1000 farmers (involved in over 50 varieties of crops) in 22 riverine and coastal case study areas. Data was collected through site visits, surveys and five workshops conducted between November 2018 and June 2019. Based on the collected data sets, a new Agricultural Coastal Vulnerability Index (AGCVI) was developed and applied to the 22 sites located in two districts (Krishna and Guntur) of Coastal Andhra Pradesh. The analysis revealed that the areas with three crop seasons (Kharif, Rabi and Zaid) per year are highly vulnerable to climate change. On the other hand, sites with one crop season (Kharif) per annum are the least vulnerable to climate change. Moreover, grains (particularly rice), flowers and fruit crops are more susceptible to climate change and its induced impacts. Rice is no longer a profitable crop in the case study areas partly as a result of unfavourable weather conditions, inadequate insurance provision and lack of government support for farmers. Cumulatively, all these circumstances impact farmers’ incomes and socio-cultural practices: this is leading to a marriage crisis, with a reduction in the desirability of matrimony to farmers. These findings provide valuable information that can support climate and agriculture policies, as well as sustainable cropping patterns among farmers’ communities in coastal areas of India in the future.
Correlates of the Intention to Reduce Meat Consumption
Authors: Krispenz Ann , Bertrams Alex
Published: June 2020

Meat consumption significantly contributes to environmental damage. Thus, a reduction in meat consumption can be regarded as sustainable behavior. Based on the assumptions of the theory of planned behavior, we examined the predictive power of individuals’ attitudes, their subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control for their intention to reduce domestic meat consumption. We assessed respective variables in a sample of 256 university students (2015) and 231 employees and university students (2017). Regression analyses revealed that the attitude toward reducing one’s own meat consumption was strongly related to the corresponding intention. Furthermore, the subjective norm predicted one’s intention to eat less meat, whereas perceived behavioral control did not. Results were similar across both samples (2015 and 2017). The findings imply that sustainable meat consumption is most likely to be achieved by a change in consumers’ attitudes.
Between Privileged and Oppressed? Immigrant Labor Trajectories in Norwegian Long-Term Care
Authors: Tingvold Laila , Fagertun Anette
Published: June 2020

An increase in older people coupled with growing life expectancy has created a higher demand for long-term care (LTC) services in the global North. Recruitment of staff with an immigrant background has been a solution to meet this demographic challenge. Research shows that linguistic barriers and cultural differences can influence immigrant carers’ abilities to offer adequate care, while less is known about workplace training and intra-collegial support. This article explores systems and practices of training offered to new employees with immigrant backgrounds, and how the qualification process unfolds in daily work in nursing homes in Norway through an intersectional perspective focusing on the interlocking of gender, class and migrancy. The article shows that organizational conditions together with incomplete training combined with attitudes of ‘willful ignorance’ maintain privilege and oppression in these workplaces. The increased immigrant participation and their labor trajectories indicate the emergence of a new immigrant niche in the lower tiers of the LTC sector. The article contributes to the literature of migration, gender, healthcare services and labor by exploring immigrants’ situated labor experiences within changing institutional conditions in LTC.
Analysis of Risk Factors in the Channels of Drug Distribution: Professional Perspectives
Authors: Grujić Jelena , Morača Slobodan , Fajsi Angela
Published: June 2020

The subject of this paper is pharmaceutical companies and the risk factors that occur in the distribution of drugs. The paper will present guidelines for the risk management of changes in the environment of pharmaceutical distribution channels. To identify, analyse, and prioritise risks, we used a systematic literature review and the Delphi method. Identification and assessment of important risk factors in drug distribution channels were conducted based on opinions of experts from 10 international pharmaceutical companies operating in Southeast Europe. The purpose of the research was to get opinions from experts about the impacts of the risk factors on the distribution of drugs, which was accomplished through interviews and questionnaires that were conducted. Our study demonstrated a total of 78 risk factors in the distribution channels of drugs and pharmaceutical services. The results of the research combined separate evaluations for risk factors in all categories for easier data analysis. After data were obtained, results were arranged to show which risk factors had the biggest influence upon the distribution of drugs and to determine the negative effects they can produce. The research of risks was done primarily to help the representatives of distribution channels gain better insight into drug distribution.
Sensitivity Analysis in Probabilistic Structural Design: A Comparison of Selected Techniques
Authors: Kala Zdeněk
Published: June 2020

Although more and more reliability-oriented sensitivity analysis (ROSA) techniques are now available, review and comparison articles of ROSA are absent. In civil engineering, many of the latest indices have never been used to analyse structural reliability for very small failure probability. This article aims to analyse and compare different sensitivity analysis (SA) techniques and discusses their strengths and weaknesses. For this purpose, eight selected sensitivity indices are first described and then applied in two different test cases. Four ROSA type indices are directly oriented on the failure probability or reliability index beta, and four other indices (of a different type) are oriented on the output of the limit state function. The case study and results correspond to cases under common engineering assumptions, where only two independent input variables with Gaussian distribution of the load action and the resistance are applied in the ultimate limit state. The last section of the article is dedicated to the analysis of the different results. Large differences between first-order sensitivity indices and very strong interaction effects obtained from ROSA are observed for very low values of failure probability. The obtained numerical results show that ROSA methods lack a common platform that clearly interprets the relationship of indices to their information value. This paper can help orientate in the selection of which sensitivity measure to use.
Building Information Modelling Feasibility Study for Building Surveying
Authors: Kim Ki Pyung , Freda Rob , Nguyen Tan Hai Dang
Published: June 2020

Despite the advancements in digital technologies, the current building design examination practice is 2D and paper-based, and a large number of 2D plans and drawings need to be collated and interpreted to examine if the proposed designs comply with building regulations. Subsequently, it is prone to human errors that make sustainable and consistent design difficult. Although Building Information Modelling (BIM) is recognised as a means to transform the current practice into a more sustainable and productive practice, BIM has rarely been adopted in building design examination. This research aims to identify the reasons for the low uptake of BIM and to examine the feasibility of BIM for building design examination through a focus group interview and workshop. A lack of proper BIM training is identified as the most critical barrier to adopting BIM. Building design examiners indicate that BIM adoption requires consistent efforts with empirical errors, since the existing work processes are not flexible enough to embrace BIM instantly without proper BIM training. An average of three days can be saved by using BIM for a building regulations check. This research revealed that BIM is feasible for building regulation checking, and the low uptake is mainly caused by a lack of awareness of the BIM capabilities.
Measurement of Executive Functioning and High Intellectual Ability in Childhood: A Comparative Meta-Analysis
Authors: Viana-Sáenz Lourdes , Sastre-Riba Sylvia , Urraca-Martínez Maria Luz , Botella Juan
Published: June 2020

From a neuroconstructivist approach and a developmental model of high intellectual ability (HIA), it is argued that the management of intellectual resources through executive functioning (EF) is one of the factors influencing the expression of high potential. The main objective is to determine the effectiveness of measures of executive functioning used comparing schoolchildren with HIA and those of average intelligence. A meta-analysis was carried out on a selection of 17 studies for a total sample of 1518 children with either HIA or an average level of intelligence. Pooled estimates of effect size revealed a significant difference favoring the HIA individuals in the two components of EF related with WM verbal (d = 1.015), and WM visual-spatial (d = 0.709). Other components did not show significant differences: inhibition (d = −0.014), flexibility (d = 0.068), and planification (d = −0.038). The empirical heterogeneity was very high. It is concluded that these instruments show a degree of measurement impurity, which condition their validity and reliability, and that schoolchildren with HIA display better executive functioning in the components of verbal and visual-spatial working memory.
Recycling Organic Fraction of Municipal Solid Waste: Systematic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends
Authors: Fernández-González José María , Díaz-López Carmen , Martín-Pascual Jaime , Zamorano Montserrat
Published: June 2020

The organic fraction is usually the predominant fraction in municipal solid waste, so its recycling is a potential alternative to disposal in landfill sites, as well as helping to reach targets included in the European Circular Economy Package. The existing body of knowledge in this research field is very large, so a comprehensive review of the existing scientific literature has been considered of interest to provide researchers and professionals with a detailed understanding of the status quo and predict the dynamic directions of this field. A systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis have been performed to provide objective criteria for evaluating the work carried out by researchers and a macroscopic overview of the existing body of knowledge in this field. The analysis of 452 scientific articles published from 1980 to 2019 has shown that the application of composting technologies is relevant, especially since 2014, when policies aimed at reducing emissions to the atmosphere were increased and focused on the use of this waste fraction to produce biogas. Nevertheless, the scientific field is still evolving to impose a model of a circular economy; in fact, emerging studies are being conducted on the production of biomethane, contributing to the decarbonised energy system.
Dynamic Trends of Urban Flooding Mitigation Services in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Xu Dihang , Ouyang Zhiyun , Wu Tong , Han Baolong
Published: June 2020

Urbanization is characterized by population agglomeration and the expansion of impervious land surfaces. As a result of ongoing urbanization, rain and flood events have increasingly affected the well-being of residents in cities across the world. This should draw attention to the role of urban ecosystems in providing runoff retention/flood mitigation services. Focusing on Shenzhen, a major city in southern China, we used a hydrologic model based on the Soil Conservation Service curve number (SCS-CN) model to evaluate this flood reduction ecosystem service and its dynamic trends based on long-term remote sensing data from 1980 to 2018. We find that Shenzhen’s capacity for flood reduction gradually decreased due to changes in land use. The spatial distribution showed strong reduction capacity in the eastern part of the city and weak capacity in the western part. Additionally, the city’s total flood reduction capacity decreased by over 1.88 × 108 m3 over the past two decades. This loss of ecosystem-based flood reduction capacity undermines Shenzhen’s resilience against extreme weather events. Due to climate change, Shenzhen should advance its plan to build a “Sponge City” rooted in the conservation, restoration, and construction of urban ecological spaces.
A Quantitative Analysis of the Optimal Energy Policy from the Perspective of China’s Supply-Side Reform
Authors: Xi Jianming , Wu Hanran , Li Bo , Liu Jingyu
Published: June 2020

How does the capacity removal policy affect China’s economy? To quantify the policy outcomes and costs, a four-sector model with vertical market structures is built. The calibrated model shows that, to achieve the policy goal, 10% of equipment operation in the high energy-consuming sectors must be shut down. This policy leads to an improved energy structure in which total energy consumption drops by 4.75% at the cost of a contraction in economic growth, where the total output declines by 12.31%. The numerical experiments find that the optimal policy is to limit the production scale in both the iron/steel industry and the fossil energy industry, closing 9% and 7% of the production, respectively, since doing so minimizes output loss and improves the energy structure. This paper quantifies the impact of the current capacity removal policy and provides policy alternatives to reach the same policy target with a lower output loss.
Phase Angle from Bioelectric Impedance and Maturity-Related Factors in Adolescent Athletes: A Systematic Review
Authors: de Araújo Jerônimo Aline Ferreira , Batalha Nuno , Collado-Mateo Daniel , Parraca Jose Alberto
Published: June 2020

Phase angle (PhA) is a body composition (BC) parameter from bioelectrical impedance analysis that is suggested as a marker of cell integrity and general health. In adolescent athletes, PhA values are used to monitor the effects of training and competitions and seem to vary according to age, having an upward trajectory during puberty. Since adolescence is a period composed of maturation stages, the aim of this systematic review was to investigate the relationship between PhA and maturation stage in adolescent athletes. A search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, BVS, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, Science Direct, and Academic Search Complete (EBSCO) databases up to May 2020. Eligibility criteria followed the PICOS strategy and studies with healthy athletes aged 10–19 years of any level of competition were included. Six cross-sectional studies and two longitudinal studies met the inclusion criteria. Results showed that early and mature athletes have higher PhA than those who are non-matured or maturated late. Thus, PhA is influenced by the pubertal status. Considering BC is one of the factors influencing sports performance together with its growth-related changes, practitioners may use PhA values in BC analysis of adolescent athletes.
Improved Representation of Flow and Water Quality in a North-Eastern German Lowland Catchment by Combining Low-Frequency Monitored Data with Hydrological Modelling
Authors: Waseem Muhammad , Schilling Jannik , Kachholz Frauke , Tränckner Jens
Published: June 2020

Achievements of good chemical and ecological status of groundwater (GW) and surface water (SW) bodies are currently challenged mainly due to poor identification and quantification of pollution sources. A high spatio-temporal hydrological and water quality monitoring of SW and GW bodies is the basis for a reliable assessment of water quality in a catchment. However, high spatio-temporal hydrological and water quality monitoring is expensive, laborious, and hard to accomplish. This study uses spatio-temporally low resolved monitored water quality and river discharge data in combination with integrated hydrological modelling to estimate the governing pollution pathways and identify potential transformation processes. A key task at the regarded lowland river Augraben is (i) to understand the SW and GW interactions by estimating representative GW zones (GWZ) based on simulated GW flow directions and GW quality monitoring stations, (ii) to quantify GW flows to the Augraben River and its tributaries, and (iii) to simulate SW discharges at ungauged locations. Based on simulated GW flows and SW discharges, NO3-N, NO2-N, NH4-N, and P loads are calculated from each defined SW tributary outlet (SWTO) and respective GWZ by using low-frequency monitored SW and GW quality data. The magnitudes of NO3-N transformations and plant uptake rates are accessed by estimating a NO3-N balance at the catchment outlet. Based on sensitivity analysis results, Manning’s roughness, saturated hydraulic conductivity, and boundary conditions are mainly used for calibration. The water balance results show that 60–65% of total precipitation is lost via evapotranspiration (ET). A total of 85–95% of SW discharge in Augraben River and its tributaries is fed by GW via base flow. SW NO3-N loads are mainly dependent on GW flows and GW quality. Estimated SW NO3-N loads at SWTO_Ivenack and SWTO_Lindenberg show that these tributaries are heavily polluted and contribute mainly to the total SW NO3-N loads at Augraben River catchment outlet (SWO_Gehmkow). SWTO_Hasseldorf contributes least to the total SW NO3-N loads. SW quality of Augraben River catchment lies, on average, in the category of heavily polluted river with a maximum NO3-N load of 650 kg/d in 2017. Estimated GW loads in GWZ_Ivenack have contributed approximately 96% of the total GW loads and require maximum water quality improvement efforts to reduce high NO3-N levels. By focusing on the impacts of NO3-N reduction measures and best agricultural practices, further studies can enhance the better agricultural and water quality management in the study area.
How Behavioral Aspects Influence the Sustainable Financial Decisions of Shareholders: An Empirical Study and Proposal for a Relevant Decision-Making Concept
Authors: Sedliačiková Mariana , Aláč Patrik , Moresová Mária
Published: June 2020

Behavioral finance is an area or sub-discipline of behavioral economics that examines the real financial behavior and decision-making of people, including the knowledge of psychology and sociology. The objective of this paper was to identify and investigate the impact of significant cognitive, psychological and emotional factors affecting the financial decision-making of the shareholders of woodworking and furniture manufacturing and trading enterprises. This could lead to the design of decision-making concepts which take into account not only cognitive but also psychological and emotional factors and their influences on decision-making process, which could positively affect the sustainable development of the aforementioned types of enterprises. The mapping of the addressed issue was carried out by means of an empirical survey in the practice of the Slovak woodworking and furniture manufacturing and trading enterprises in the form of a questionnaire. The results of the survey were evaluated by descriptive, graphical and mathematical-statistical methods. Conclusions and recommendations were formulated based on the identification of key behavioral aspects (knowledge, security, freedom and sadness), the implementation of which could contribute to eliminating negative deviations and errors in the financial decision-making process of shareholders of woodworking and furniture manufacturing and trading enterprises.
Preparing Sustainable Engineers: A Project-Based Learning Experience in Logistics with Refugee Camps
Authors: Terrón-López María-José , Velasco-Quintana Paloma J. , Lavado-Anguera Silvia , Espinosa-Elvira María del Carmen
Published: June 2020

This article describes an intrinsic case study of project-based learning (PBL) experience involving an NGO as an external client to promote sustainability competencies. Two research questions are posed: (1) How did this experiential PBL approach impact students learning to develop sustainability competencies by incorporating a responsible engineering perspective? (2) How did college students become engaged with social and sustainable PBL projects when external clients of developing economies were involved? The project-based design involved two subjects in the second year of an Industrial engineering degree. The client was an NGO with an existing project to improve the supply chain logistics of three refugee camps managed by women. Students had to cooperatively develop a sustainable proposal for the NGO with a global mindset. Findings obtained from the analysis of the reflections of students and teachers indicate that this methodology helps students to acquire comprehensively learning outcomes and to develop sustainability competencies. Sustainable and socially responsible engineering were achieved through a methodology that considers the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and engages students in real projects. This approach promotes student awareness on the importance of their actions and their personal behavior as engineers, including a gender perspective, while training them to move towards SDG4 and 5.