bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of High-Resolution Multispectral UAVs to Calculate Projected Ground Area in Corylus avellana L. Tree Orchard
Authors: Altieri Gessica , Maffia Angela , Pastore Vittoria , Amato Mariana , Celano Giuseppe
Published: September 2022

In the last decade, research on Corylus avellana has focused on improving field techniques and hazelnut quality; however, climatic change and sustainability goals call for new agronomic management strategies. Precision management technologies could help improve resource use efficiency and increase grower income, but research on remote sensing systems and especially on drone devices is still limited. Therefore, the hazelnut is still linked to production techniques far from the so-called Agriculture 4.0. Unmanned aerial vehicles platforms are becoming increasingly available to satisfy the demand for rapid real-time monitoring for orchard management at spatial, spectral, and temporal resolutions, addressing the analysis of geometric traits such as canopy volume and area and vegetation indices. The objective of this study is to define a rapid procedure to calculate geometric parameters of the canopy, such as canopy area and height, by methods using NDVI and CHM values derived from UAV images. This procedure was tested on the young Corylus avellana tree to manage a hazelnut orchard in the early years of cultivation. The study area is a hazelnut orchard (6.68 ha), located in Bernalda, Italy. The survey was conducted in a six-year-old irrigated hazelnut orchard of Tonda di Giffoni and Nocchione varieties using multispectral UAV. We determined the Projected Ground Area and, on the Corylus avellana canopy trough, the vigor index NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) and the CHM (Canopy Height Model), which were used to define the canopy and to calculate the tree crown area. The projection of the canopy area to the ground measured with NDVI values > 0.30 and NDVI values > 0.35 and compared with CHM measurements showed a statistically significant linear regression, R2 = 0.69 and R2 = 0.70, respectively. The ultra-high-resolution imagery collected with the UAV system helped identify and define each tree crown individually from the background (bare soil and grass cover). Future developments are the construction of reliable relationships between the vigor index NDVI and the Leaf Area Index (LAI), as well as the evaluation of their spatial-temporal evolution.
Wideband RCS Reduction by Single-Layer Phase Gradient Modulated Surface
Authors: Azizi Yousef , Soleimani Mohammad , Sedighy Seyed-Hasan , Matekovits Ladislau
Published: September 2022

This paper deals with the design and fabrication of an unpretentious (single-layer, without any lump element) broadband (97%, 11.3–32.3 GHz) radar cross-section reduction (RCSR) modulated surface (MS). The proposed structure uses sinusoidal modulation gap sizes between square patches within square unit cells to form a phase gradient that plays an effective role in improving the RCSR bandwidth. An MS with dimensions of 250 × 250 mm2, consisting of 40 × 40 unit cells with a period of 6 mm printed on a RO4003C (lossy) substrate of 0.06λLF (λLF being the wavelength at the lower frequency) thickness, has been prototyped. The MS has square patch (SP) unit cells with seven different gap sizes. A genetic algorithm (GA)-based fine-tuning has been implemented to further increase the performances of the structure. Measurements on it have been conducted considering both mono- and bi-static arrangements and for oblique incidences for both TM and TE polarization tests. A good agreement between simulation and measurement results proves the validity of the design criteria.
GWLBC: Gray Wolf Optimization Based Load Balanced Clustering for Sustainable WSNs in Smart City Environment
Authors: Singh Surjit , Nikolovski Srete , Chakrabarti Prasun
Published: September 2022

In a smart city environment, with increased demand for energy efficiency, information exchange and communication through wireless sensor networks (WSNs) plays an important role. In WSNs, the sensors are usually operating in clusters, and they are allowed to restructure for effective communication over a large area and for a long time. In this scenario, load-balanced clustering is the cost-effective means of improving the system performance. Although clustering is a discrete problem, the computational intelligence techniques are more suitable for load balancing and minimizing energy consumption with different operating constraints. The literature reveals that the swarm intelligence-inspired computational approaches give excellent results among population-based meta-heuristic approaches because of their more remarkable exploration ability. Conversely, in this work, load-balanced clustering for sustainable WSNs is presented using improved gray wolf optimization (IGWO). In a smart city environment, the significant parameters of energy-efficient load-balanced clustering involve the network lifetime, dead cluster heads, dead gateways, dead sensor nodes, and energy consumption while ensuring information exchange and communication among the sensors and cluster heads. Therefore, based on the above parameters, the proposed IGWO is compared with the existing GWO and several other techniques. Moreover, the convergence characteristics of the proposed algorithm are demonstrated for an extensive network in a smart city environment, which consists of 500 sensors and 50 cluster heads deployed in an area of 500 × 500 m2, and it was found to be significantly improved.
Cooperative Location Method for Leader-Follower UAV Formation Based on Follower UAV’s Moving Vector
Authors: Zhu Xudong , Lai Jizhou , Chen Sheng
Published: September 2022

The traditional leader-follower Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) formation cooperative positioning (CP) algorithm, based on relative ranging, requires at least four leader UAV positions to be known accurately, using relative distance with leader UAVs to achieve the unknown position follower UAV’s high-precision positioning. When the number of the known position leader UAVs is limited, the traditional CP algorithm is not applicable. Aiming at the minimum cooperative unit, which consists of a known position leader UAV and an unknown position follower UAV, this paper proposes a CP method based on the follower UAV’s moving vector. Considering the follower UAV can only acquire the single distance with the leader UAV at each distance-sampling period, it is difficult to determine the follower UAV’s spatial location. The follower UAV’s moving vector is used to construct position observation of the follower UAV’s inertial navigation system (INS). High-precision positioning is achieved by combining the follower UAV’s moving vector. In the process of CP, the leader UAV obtains a high-precision position by an INS/Global Positioning System (GPS) loosely integrated navigation system and transmits its position information to the follower UAV. Based on accurate modeling of the follower UAV’s INS, the position, velocity and heading observation equation of the follower UAV’s INS are constructed. The improved extended Kalman filtering is designed to estimate the state vector to improve the follower UAV’s positioning accuracy. In addition, considering that the datalink system based on radio signals may be interfered with by the external environment, it is difficult for the follower UAV to obtain relative distance information from the leader UAV in real time. In this paper, the availability of the relative distance information is judged by a two-state Markov chain. Finally, a real flight test is conducted to validate the performance of the proposed algorithm.
Non-Enzymatic Phenylboronic Acid-Based Optode Membrane for Glucose Monitoring in Serums of Diabetic Patients and in the Culture Medium of Human Embryos
Authors: Taha Mohamed M. , Rizk Mahmoud S. , Zayed Mohamed A. , Abdel-Haleem Fatehy M. , Barhoum Ahmed
Published: September 2022

Monitoring glucose levels is important not only for diabetics, but also for tracking embryonic development in human embryo culture media. In this study, an optochemical sensor (glucose-selective polymer membrane) was fabricated for the determination of glucose in serum from diabetic patients and the culture media of human embryos. The optode membranes were formulated using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as the polymer matrix and 4′,5′-dibromofluorescein octadecyl ester (ETH 7075) as the chromoionophore. The sensitivity of the optode membranes was optimized using two different plasticizers (tricresyl phosphate-TCP and nitrophenyloctyl ether-NOPE) and three ionophores (nitrophenylboronic acid-NPBA, trifluorophenyboronic acid-TFPBA, 4′-nitrobenzo-15-crown-5) and tested for glucose detection. The best optode membrane was formulated from 49.5% PVC, 49.5% TCP, 1% NPBA, and 1% ETH 7075. It showed a linear dynamic range of 10−3 M to 10−1 M, with a detection limit of 9 × 10−4 M and a response time of 2 min. The detection mechanism involves H-bonding between NPBA and glucose, which was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The reaction also involves the formation of boronate esters in basic media with deprotonation of the chromoionophore (ETH 7075), leading to a decrease in UV–Vis absorbance at λmax = 530 nm. The membrane optode was used for glucose determination in synthetic culture medium, commercial embryo culture medium (GLOBAL® TOTAL® W/HEPES), and serum from normal and diabetic patients, showing good accuracy and precision of the optode.
The National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard of 2016: Intersection of Technology and Public Understanding of Science in the United States
Authors: Suldovsky Brianne , Hallman William K.
Published: September 2022

Genetically modified (GM) foods have been commercially available in the US for more than two decades, yet Americans know very little about them. With the implementation of the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard of 2016, food manufacturers will be required to disclose the presence of GM ingredients in their food products. How food manufacturers communicate with consumers about GM ingredients may have consequences for public understanding of GM technology. In Study 1, we explore how food manufacturers characterize GM ingredients within their food products on SmartLabel, a digital disclosure website established by the Grocery Manufacturers Association. In Study 2, we test the effect of those characterizations on perceived risks and benefits of GM food. Overall, we find that varying characterizations of GM ingredients do not significantly affect perceived risks and benefits. Post hoc analyses suggest that knowledge of GM technology and moral evaluation of GM technology significantly predict perceived risks and benefits. Implications for the public communication of GM technology are discussed.
Compact Development Policy and Urban Resilience: A Critical Review
Authors: Dehghani Alireza , Alidadi Mehdi , Sharifi Ayyoob
Published: September 2022

Sustainable development and urban resilience are dominant urban planning paradigms that have become buzzwords in urban planning and policy domains over the past 2–3 decades. While these two paradigms have been analyzed and scrutinized in different studies, the interconnection between them in policy realms is understudied. Compact development policy is expected to contribute to a variety of sustainability goals. However, these goals’ alignment with the principles and goals of urban resilience is under question. This research tries to shed some light on this issue. A critical review method is employed to understand how compactness as a sustainable urban development policy relates to different principles and dimensions of urban resilience. First, the conceptual and theoretical relationship between urban resilience and compact city is established. Next, the resulting framework is used to critically analyze 124 articles to understand how the compact city policy relates to urban resilience from different dimensions and principles. Densification and intensification, mixed land use and diversity, and spatial connectivity and public transportation are identified as principles of the compact city. Finally, the interconnection between compact city policy and urban resilience dimensions and principles is explored and assessed through examining the selected literature. The results of the review show some alignments between compact city policy outcomes and urban resilience. However, the level of alignment may vary depending on the context, scale, or dimension. In other words, while compact city in one scale/dimension can increase urban resilience to a specific adverse event or stressor, it might increase vulnerability to others in another scale/dimension. From the policy perspective, compact development policy and urban resilience principles should clearly be defined a priori to reach favorable outcomes.
Bioconversion of Corn Crop Residues: Lactic Acid Production through Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation
Authors: Malacara-Becerra Alonso , Melchor-Martínez Elda M. , Sosa-Hernández Juan Eduardo , Riquelme-Jiménez L. María , Mansouri Seyed Soheil , Iqbal Hafiz M. N. , Parra-Saldívar Roberto
Published: September 2022

Lactic acid (LA) is a chemical building block with wide applications in the food, cosmetics, and chemical industries. Its polymer polylactic acid further increases this range of applications as a green and biocompatible alternative to petrol-based plastics. Corn is the fourth largest crop in the world, and its residues represent a potentially renewable feedstock for industrial lactic acid production through simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF). The main goal of this work is to summarize and compare the pretreatment methods, enzymatic formulations and microbial strains that have been combined in a SSF setup for bioconversion of corn crop residues into LA. Additionally, the main concerns of scaling-up and the innovation readiness level towards commercial implementation of this technology are also discussed. The analysis on commercial implementation renders the current state of SSF technology unsustainable, mainly due to high wastewater generation and saccharification costs. Nonetheless, there are promising strategies that are being tested and are focused on addressing these issues. The present work proves that the study and optimization of SSF as a biorefinery framework represents a step towards the adoption of potentially sustainable waste management practices.
Multistage Game Model Based Dynamic Pricing for Car Parking Slot to Control Congestion
Authors: Karri Sowmya , Dhabu Meera M.
Published: September 2022

Car parking has become expensive both in terms of money and the time to search for a free parking slot, especially in metropolitan cities. The parking lots nearer to shopping complexes or corporate buildings often get occupied, leaving the farther parking lots empty and leading to traffic congestion near these already busy areas. With a dynamic pricing strategy, the prices of high-demand parking lots can be surged up during peak hours, deviating the traffic towards the unoccupied, cheaper parking lots. A dynamic pricing strategy for car parking slots helps in fairly distributing the traffic among all the parking lots and helps in increasing the revenue of the parking lot management as well. However, increasing the prices unconditionally will affect the drivers. In this paper, a game-theory-based dynamic pricing strategy is proposed that aims to optimize the benefits for both the car parking management and the drivers. The goal is to find the Nash equilibrium price for peak hours and off-peak hours where the car parking management’s revenue is maximized while the price paid by the drivers is minimized. Simulation results show that the proposed model manages to reduce the congestion at peak hours and the profits of parking lot owners are increased.
Industry Differences in Productivity—In Agriculture and Tourism by Lake Balaton, Hungary
Authors: Bacsi Zsuzsanna , Dávid Lóránt Dénes , Hollósy Zsolt
Published: September 2022

The paper compared the performance of firms in agriculture and in tourism in two countryside areas of Hungary, assessing 2613 firms for 16 years (2004–2019). The data are from tax reports of all firms of the analysed areas. Agriculture and countryside tourism depend on environmental factors, thus they are more seriously affected by adverse environmental events than other production or service industries. The research was aimed at identifying differences between the two industries, and reveal time patterns and size-related traits of performance. Labour force, sales revenues, total assets, labour productivity, and total factor productivity (TFP) were analysed with descriptive statistics and panel regression analysis. Results reveal that the performance of firms in these industries differ significantly regarding total assets, sales revenues, labour force, and labour productivity, but does not differ in TFP, and differences are associated either with average levels of indicator values or their temporal tendencies. Our results underline that firm performance considerably differs by firm size, smaller firms are generally more labour-efficient than larger ones, and labour efficiency is positively impacted by total asset level, but TFP is not. Agriculture was found to be not less efficient than tourism, contrary to general assumptions.
Line Overload Alleviations in Wind Energy Integrated Power Systems Using Automatic Generation Control
Authors: Ullah Kaleem , Basit Abdul , Ullah Zahid , Asghar Rafiq , Aslam Sheraz , Yafoz Ayman
Published: September 2022

Modern power systems are largely based on renewable energy sources, especially wind power. However, wind power, due to its intermittent nature and associated forecasting errors, requires an additional amount of balancing power provided through the automatic generation control (AGC) system. In normal operation, AGC dispatch is based on the fixed participation factor taking into account only the economic operation of generating units. However, large-scale injection of additional reserves results in large fluctuations of line power flows, which may overload the line and subsequently reduce the system security if AGC follows the fixed participation factor’s criteria. Therefore, to prevent the transmission line overloading, a dynamic dispatch strategy is required for the AGC system considering the capacities of the transmission lines along with the economic operation of generating units. This paper proposes a real-time dynamic AGC dispatch strategy, which protects the transmission line from overloading during the power dispatch process in an active power balancing operation. The proposed method optimizes the control of the AGC dispatch order to prevent power overflows in the transmission lines, which is achieved by considering how the output change of each generating unit affects the power flow in the associated bus system. Simulations are performed in Dig SILENT software by developing a 5 machine 8 bus Pakistan’s power system model integrating thermal power plant units, gas turbines, and wind power plant systems. Results show that the proposed AGC design efficiently avoids the transmission line congestions in highly wind-integrated power along with the economic operation of generating units.
Decision Support Models for Site Remediation: An Evaluation of Industry Practice in China
Authors: Song Na , Hursthouse Andrew , Mclellan Iain , Wang Zhenghua
Published: September 2022

China is currently facing great challenges in preventing land from further contamination by industrial activity. We evaluated the current state of business activity supporting the prevention and control of soil pollution through good waste management practice to restrict further soil contamination. The study focused on understanding drivers to improve the development of business activity in both waste management and remediation sectors in China. The status of organizations which manage solid waste and industrial operations providing remediation, professional materials, equipment, and approaches to site management are highlighted. Using questionnaires and a limited number of follow-up interviews, we consulted with remediation practitioners (>100 respondents including construction contracting workers, consultancy, equipment suppliers, and government department employees) working across China. The results identified that the site risk assessment and the wider construction phases for site remediation are typically based on guidelines from government and/or local government. The most frequently used materials for solidification or stabilization during remediation were clay minerals. Local government funds financed most remediation activities. Waste recycling would be a path to further reduce pollution from site development and its application in remediation techniques is possible. In addition to remediation methods, a strategic framework can be employed to provide decision support when assessing sites or decision-making for remediation projects. The priorities for remediation highlight that two types of soil use (arable land and land for construction) should be prioritized for remediation. This evaluation of industry practice provides useful models for wider decision-making in site remediation.
Key Enablers of Resilient and Sustainable Construction Supply Chains: A Systems Thinking Approach
Authors: Ghufran Maria , Khan Khurram Iqbal Ahmad , Ullah Fahim , Alaloul Wesam Salah , Musarat Muhammad Ali
Published: September 2022

In the globalized world, one significant challenge for organizations is minimizing risk by building resilient supply chains (SCs). This is important to achieve a competitive advantage in an unpredictable and ever-changing environment. However, the key enablers of such resilient and sustainable supply chain management are less explored in construction projects. Therefore, the present research aims to determine the causality among the crucial drivers of resilient and sustainable supply chain management (RSSCM) in construction projects. Based on the literature review, 12 enablers of RSSCM were shortlisted. Using the systems thinking (ST) approach, this article portrays the interrelation between the 12 shortlisted resilience enablers crucial for sustainability in construction projects. The causality and interrelationships among identified enablers in the developed causal loop diagram (CLD) show their dynamic interactions and impacts within the RSSCM system. Based on the results of this study, agility, information sharing, strategic risk planning, corporate social responsibility, and visibility are the key enablers for the RSSCM. The findings of this research will enable the construction managers to compare different SCs while understanding how supply chain characteristics increase or decrease the durability and ultimately affect the exposure to risk in the construction SCs.
Performance Assessment of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Produced with Waste Lathe Fibers
Authors: Çelik Ali İhsan , Özkılıç Yasin Onuralp , Zeybek Özer , Özdöner Nebi , Tayeh Bassam A.
Published: September 2022

The amount of steel waste produced is on the increase due to improvements in steel manufacturing industries. The increase in such wastes causes significant environmental problems and, furthermore, a large area is also required to store these waste products. Instead of disposing of these wastes, the reuse of them in different industries is an important success in terms of both reducing environmental pollution and providing low-cost products. From this motivation, the effect of lathe scrap fibers generated from Computer Numerical Control (CNC) lathe machine tools on concrete performance was investigated in this study. Pursuant to this aim and considering different fiber content, an experimental study was conducted on some test specimens. Workability and slump values of concrete produced with different lathe scrap fibers were determined, and these properties were compared with those of plain concrete. For the hardened concrete, 150 mm × 150 mm × 150 mm cubic specimens and cylindrical specimens with a diameter of 100 mm and a height of 200 mm were tested to identify compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of the concrete produced with different volume fracture of lathe waste scrap (0%, 1%, 2% and 3%). With the addition of the lathe scrap, the compressive and splitting tensile strength of fiber-reinforced concrete increases, but after a certain value of steel fiber content, there is a decrease in workability. Next, a three-point bending test was carried out on samples with dimensions of 100 × 100 × 400 mm and a span length of 300 mm to obtain the flexure behavior of different mixtures. It has been shown that the flexural strength of fiber-reinforced concrete increases with an increasing content of waste lathe. Furthermore, microstructural analysis was performed to observe the interaction between lathe scrap fiber and concrete. Good adhesion was observed between the steel fiber and cementitious concrete. According to the results obtained, waste lathe scrap fiber also worked as a good crack arrestor. Lastly, practical empirical equations were developed to calculate the compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of fiber-reinforced concrete produced with waste lathe scrap.
Blockchain Framework for Certification of Organic Agriculture Production
Authors: Tegeltija Srdjan , Dejanović Stefan , Feng Huanhuan , Stankovski Stevan , Ostojić Gordana , Kučević Denis , Marjanović Jelena
Published: September 2022

Organic production, as a sustainable food production system, is designed to implement all agroecological principles that enable the preservation of human and animal health, environmental protection, and positive impact on society and the ecosystem while achieving significant economic benefits. Demand for organic food products is constantly growing, and the land area under organic production is continuously increasing. The problem in this sector is that producers of organic products face many administrative and systemic obstacles that prevent the faster development of this sector. On the other hand, consumers do not have complete confidence in the current mechanisms of control of organic production, so in the sale on the food markets and in the rest of the market, fake and unverified organic products can be found. Based on sensor data from the production field, this paper presents the SAFE platform as a solution for the described problem. The data necessary for producers to carry out the certification process are harmonized with the current legislation for organic food production. The SAFE platform uses blockchain technology to secure data consistency and history since it makes it impossible to change data history. The results of a survey about the SAFE platform are presented. The proposed solution stimulates the development and improvement of agricultural production by organic production methods, accompanied by increasing capacity in organic production.
How Does Outward Foreign Direct Investment Affect Green Total Factor Productivity? Evidence from Increment and Quality Improvement
Authors: Tian Geng
Published: September 2022

Based on the provincial data of China from 2011 to 2020, this paper analyzes the effect and influence mechanism of Outward Foreign Direct Investment (OFDI) on Green Total Factor Productivity (GTFP) theoretically and empirically. The results show that OFDI can significantly improve GTFP, and this conclusion is still valid after measurement replacement, instrumental variable method and systematic GMM treatment. The mechanism analysis demonstrates that digital inclusive finance can strengthen the promoting effect of OFDI on GTFP, and OFDI can promote invention innovation and utility model innovation, thus enhancing GTFP. The heterogeneity analysis shows that OFDI can play a stronger role in promoting GTFP in the eastern region, western region, and the regions with a low marketization level. Therefore, actively promoting OFDI, optimizing the accuracy of OFDI, speeding up the development of digital inclusive finance, and formulating policies according to local conditions, play a vital role in promoting GTFP and the transformation of economic structure.
Power Battery Echelon Utilization and Recycling Strategy for New Energy Vehicles Based on Blockchain Technology
Authors: Xing Peng , Yao Junzhu
Published: September 2022

With the increasing popularity of new energy vehicles (NEVs), a large number of automotive batteries are intensively reaching their end-of-life, which brings enormous challenges to environmental protection and sustainable development. This paper establishes a closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) model composed of a power battery manufacturer and a NEV retailer. The benchmark scenario of CLSC members without blockchain technology is analyzed, and the optimal recycling strategy of the manufacturer and retailer using traceability information based on blockchain technology is discussed. We generate our findings from three aspects, as follows: the manufacturer or retailer is more willing to take the responsibility of recycling when the proportion of retired batteries that can be used in echelons is relatively high. Meanwhile, when the recycling cost is large, both manufacturers and retailers should adopt blockchain technology to obtain greater profits. Furthermore, with the improvement of traceability information transmission efficiency, a higher profit growth rate will be achieved.
An Approach for Lighting Calculations in Indoor Mirrored Facilities Based on Virtual Twin-Spaces
Authors: Peña-García Antonio
Published: September 2022

The presence of walls with different reflectance in indoor facilities is a problem when designing their lighting installations. This problem becomes more serious when one or more walls are mirrors, a common situation in medical, sport, educative and many other indoor facilities. Even if some programs can work with different approaches, the results are far from exact and, in many cases, designers ignore the mirrors and work by eye, with results that are frequently excessive in terms of illuminance on the working planes, glare and energy consumption and use of materials. These deviations from the intended results are due to the direct or indirect estimation of reflectance remarkably lower than 1 in the mirrored walls. In this framework of uncertainty, this work is presented with the objective of developing an intuitive theoretical model based on the consideration of virtual twin-spaces behind the mirrors. This proposal is not just an approach, but a useful tool providing the input for any kind of calculation ranging from the lumen method, used in quick pre-dimensioning, to the most complete calculations with computational methods. In addition, apart from calculating the number of luminaires and photometric parameters, the use of virtual twin-rooms also takes into account the extended field of vision of the users, including objects behind, and virtual luminaries. This advantage has no precedent in the literature up to date.
Laboratory Evaluation of Dynamic Characteristics of a New High-Modulus Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Zhang Haiwei , Yang Xingwang , Li Yan , Fu Qilong , Rui Huayu
Published: September 2022

With the rapid increase in traffic volume and heavy-duty vehicles, rutting has become one of the most serious problems threatening the service quality and life of asphalt pavement. High-modulus asphalt concrete is a promising method to overcome this problem, contributing to the sustainable development of asphalt pavement. In this study, a new composite high-modulus agent (CHMA)-modified asphalt binder and mixture were prepared, and their dynamic mechanical characteristics were investigated by the dynamic shear rheometer, dynamic modulus test, wheel tracking test, frequency sweep test at a constant height (FSCH), and repeated shear test at a constant height (RSCH) to comprehensively evaluate its high-temperature stability. Test results showed that the rheological property of the CHMA-modified asphalt binder was similar to that of low-graded asphalt binder, implying that it had a strong potential in resisting deformation. The dynamic modulus of AC-20(CHMA) was 19,568 MPa at 15 °C and 10 Hz condition, meeting the requirement for the high-modulus asphalt mixture (higher than 14,000 MPa). The dynamic stability of AC-20(CHMA) was 8094 times/mm, lower than that of AC-20(20#), but remarkably higher than that of AC-20(SBS). AC-20(20#) and AC-20(CHMA) both showed strong shear resistance according to the FSCH test results. Under the repeated shear loadings, the growth rate of the shear strain increased rapidly in the primary stage, and then slowed down gradually, finally reaching a constant growth rate. The shear slope of AC-20(CHMA) was between that of AC-20(20#) and AC-20(SBS), demonstrating that its resistance to repeated shear loadings was superior to AC-20(SBS), although slightly weaker than AC-20(20#). The findings in this study provide references for alleviating rutting problems and improving the lifespan of asphalt pavement.
Cultural Ecosystem Services Research Progress and Future Prospects: A Review
Authors: Yang Liangjian , Cao Kaijun
Published: September 2022

Cultural ecosystem services (CESs) are direct influences on human well-being and sustainable development, and they have become increasingly important in the development and progress of society. This paper reviewed 1248 papers on CESs by using VOSviewer and CiteSpace software. On this basis, we also reviewed 179 selected empirical papers related to this field, with regards to geographical locations, study objects, evaluation methods, and categories. The results show that: (1) the number of publications related to cultural services has increased year by year, and Ecosystem Services, Ecological Indicators, and Sustainability are the top three journals with the greatest amount of research published; (2) ecosystem services, benefits, management, and social–ecological systems are perceptions closely related to CES research, which are also popular topics in the field; (3) the results of a keyword detection show that the cultural landscapes, patterns, mental health services, social value, and other keywords were popular keywords used from 2005 to 2021; (4) CESs have mainly attracted the attention of many developed countries, and the cultural services in cities, oceans, and coastal areas have become the focus for researchers; (5) the recreation and ecotourism, and aesthetic values are the common categories of the CES empirical studies, while the knowledge system and the cultural diversity are the two categories with the least amount of research; (6) the evaluation methods of CESs are mostly carried out using a traditional questionnaire and interview, but mapping and modeling methods have been widely used in recent years.
Random Walk of Socially Responsible Investment in Emerging Market
Authors: Danila Nevi
Published: September 2022

Emerging markets offer some of the world’s most impactful investment possibilities for investors concerned with addressing global climate and socioeconomic issues. Sophisticated investors conjectured that socially responsible investment (SRI) or environmental social and governance (ESG) might give greater returns than investing in conventional stocks in an emerging market. At the same time, the investors favour conserving the environment while generating long-term economic growth. Being able to earn greater returns is an indication of an inefficient market. This paper investigates the random walk (weak-form of the efficient market) of SRI/ESG indices in the emerging market (based on IMF emerging market criteria). We use the daily data as a sample. Random walk is tested using an Augmented Dickey–Fuller (ADF) Unit Root test, Variance ratio test and Hurst exponent test. The findings report that all the indices are not following a random walk. Lack of ESG disclosure, inadequate corporate governance regulation and behavioural bias might be reasons for market inefficiency. Its implications for investors to reap abnormal market returns by identifying the undervalued stock in the emerging economies. The regulator’s approval of operational guidelines and the licensing of exchanges and clearing houses help maintain the markets’ fairness. Then, the regulator should intensify corporate governance enhancement, implementation and enforcement continuously; enhance the market and institutional infrastructure, and focus policy on encouraging a more significant and more diverse investor base.
Data-Driven Evaluation and Optimization of Agricultural Environmental Efficiency with Carbon Emission Constraints
Authors: Muchen Luo , Hamdan Rosita , Ab-Rahim Rossazana
Published: September 2022

To cope with global carbon reduction pressure, improved agricultural production efficiency, and optimize regional sustainability, we constructed a data-driven evaluation and optimization method for agricultural environmental efficiency (AEE) under carbon constraints. This study constructs a comprehensive input-output AEE evaluation index system, incorporates carbon emissions from agricultural production processes as undesired outputs, and optimizes their calculation. The Minimum Distance to Strong Efficient Frontier evaluation model considering undesired output, and the kernel density estimation, are used to quantitatively evaluate AEE from static and dynamic perspectives. Tobit regression models are further used to analyze the driving influences of AEE and propose countermeasures to optimize AEE. The feasibility of the above methodological process was tested using 2015–2020 data from the Anhui Province, China. Although there is still scope for optimizing the AEE in Anhui, the overall trend is positive and shows a development trend of “double peaks”. The levels of education, economic development, agricultural water supply capacity, and rural management are important factors contributing to AEE differences in Anhui. Data and regression analysis results contribute to the optimization of AEE and proposes optimization strategies. This study provides extensions and refinements of the AEE evaluation and optimization, and contributes to sustainable development of regions.
Understanding the Determinants and Motivations for Collaborative Consumption in Laundromats
Authors: Phuphisith Sarunnoud , Kurisu Kiyo
Published: September 2022

A laundromat is a collaborative consumption alternative that is representative of a larger shift toward a sharing economy. The present study aimed to investigate determinants of laundromat use and develop a theoretical model based on the Theory of Planned Behavior to provide insights into consumer intentions regarding laundromats. This study also investigated differences among consumer motivations concerning laundromats in terms of their washing practices and sociodemographics using correspondence analyses. Data were collected from laundromat users. The model results indicated that consumer intentions were driven primarily by attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and perceived usefulness. Further group analysis between the respondents only using laundromats and those using laundromats together with other washing choices showed different significant intention determinants. Convenience and speed were the most practical reasons for using laundromats. The correspondence analyses indicated divergent motivations of various customer segments. Our findings could be used to support laundromats and their marketing campaigns by highlighting the uniqueness of their services to gain customers at different segments and also to maintain their existing consumer base.
Analysis of Leakage in a Sustainable Water Pipeline Based on a Magnetic Flux Leakage Technique
Authors: Durai Mathivanan , Chi-Chuan Peng , Lan Chou-Wei , Chang Ho
Published: September 2022

Pipelines are typically used to transport oil, natural gas, water, etc. It is one of the most effective methods for transferring fluids over long distances. However, long-term usage of these pipes without maintenance results in the formation of residues, which will pave the way for pipeline accidents and soil contamination. To ensure the safety and protection of resources, these sustainable pipelines need to be inspected to avoid losses. This work aims to investigate various internal defect leaks in the non-uniform thickness of sustainable water pipes that are joined with a pipe expander. The magnetic flux leakage technique was implemented to evaluate these defects by means of a flexible GMR sensor array. An inspection robot containing two units was fabricated with the aid of 3D printing. The power unit provides the necessary thrust to actuate the entire robot whereas the sensing unit is responsible for analyzing the leaks. The robot’s movement is predicted by the MPU6050 and ultrasonic distance sensors that are plotted as motion plots. The sensing unit consists of permanent magnets and a giant magnetoresistance (GMR) array to interrogate the flux leakage in the defect region. The flux leakage from the defects was stored with the help of an Arduino microcontroller, which controls the overall process. In addition, the spring suspension is provided to regulate the motion of the robot. The flux leakage from the defect region was plotted as waveform graphs. Thus, the results are effectively presented and compared. The calculated signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the magnetic flux leakages (MFLs) for 4.5 mm-thick pipe defects was 12 to 20.8 dB, and for 6.52 mm-thick pipe defects, it was 9.5 to 19 dB. In sum, the MFL technique provides a reliable method for the sustainable development of water supply to wide areas.
Economic Evaluation of Bioremediation of Hydrocarbon-Contaminated Urban Soils in Chile
Authors: Orellana Roberto , Cumsille Andrés , Piña-Gangas Paula , Rojas Claudia , Arancibia Alejandra , Donghi Salvador , Stuardo Cristian , Cabrera Patricio , Arancibia Gabriela , Cárdenas Franco , Salazar Felipe , González Myriam , Santis Patricio , Abarca-Hurtado Josefina , Mejías María , Seeger Michael
Published: September 2022

Technical advances have converted bioremediation into a large-scale ecosystem service suitable for the treatment of polluted soils worldwide; however, its application in Chile is scarce. The main hurdles that must be addressed include the capacities of such approaches for the treatment of polluted soils, the lack of knowledge about key factors affecting bioremediation costs and the lack of a legal framework to regulate this activity. In this study, the economic performance of the bioremediation of chronically hydrocarbon-polluted urban soils based on bioaugmentation, biostimulation or the combination of both approaches projected to an industrial scale was evaluated. The cost of bioremediation ranged between USD 50.7 and USD 310.4 per m3 of contaminated soil. In addition, the items and activities that had the most significant impacts on the final bioremediation cost, such as compost for biostimulation and bacterial growth media for bioaugmentation-based approaches, were identified. The projected costs were compared against an extensive database of 130 soil bioremediation projects. The bioremediation treatment costs fell within the top 60% of the more expensive projects, highlighting the high effort involved in bioremediation of chronically contaminated soils. This framework can facilitate the decision making of entrepreneurs, consultants, researchers and governmental authorities when launching initiatives to develop a local bioremediation industry capable of cleaning up a high number of polluted sites in Chile.
Certain New Development to the Orthogonal Binary Relations
Authors: Ali Amjad , Hussain Aftab , Arshad Muhammad , Al Sulami Hamed , Tariq Muhammad
Published: September 2022

In this study, inspired by the concept of B-metric-like space (BMLS), we introduce the concept of orthogonal B-metric-like space (OBMLS) via a hybrid pair of operators. Additionally, we establish the concept of orthogonal dynamic system (ODS) as a generalization of the dynamic system (DS), which improves the existing results for analysies such as those presented here. By applying this, some new refinements of the F⊥-Suzuki-type (F⊥-ST) fixed-point results are presented. These include some tangible instances, and applications in the field of nonlinear analysis are given to highlight the usability and validity of the theoretical results.
Fractional Leindler’s Inequalities via Conformable Calculus
Authors: AlNemer Ghada , Kenawy Mohammed R. , Rezk Haytham M. , El-Deeb Ahmed A. , Zakarya Mohammed
Published: September 2022

In this paper, some fractional Leindler and Hardy-type inequalities and their reversed will be proved by using integration by parts and Hölder inequality on conformable fractional calculus. As a special case, some classical integral inequalities will be obtained. Symmetrical properties play an essential role in determining the correct methods to solve inequalities. The new fractional inequalities in special cases yield some recent relevance, which also provide new estimates on inequalities of these type.
The Observational Shadow Features of a Renormalization Group Improved Black Hole Considering Spherical Accretions
Authors: Chen Yun-Xian , Mou Ping-Hui , Li Guo-Ping
Published: September 2022

The study of black hole shadows by considering the surrounding kinds of matter has attracted interest in recent years. In this paper, we use the ray-tracing method to study shadows and photon spheres of renormalization group improved (RGI) black holes, taking into account the different thin spherical accretion models. We find that an increase in the parameters Ω and γ, which are excited by renormalization group theory, can decrease the event horizon and the radius of the photon sphere while increasing the effective potential. For static and infalling accretions, these results indicate that black hole shadows are related to the geometry of spacetime, and are nearly unaffected by spherical accretions. However, due to the Doppler effect, the shadow in the infalling case is darker than the static one, and the intensities of the photon sphere decay more slowly from the photon sphere to infinity. In addition, the peak intensities out of the shadow increase with the parameters Ω and γ. Finally, it can be seen that the effect of Ω on the shadow is more distinct by comparing it with that of γ at the same parameter level.
Fixed-Point Theorems in Fuzzy Normed Linear Spaces for Contractive Mappings with Applications to Dynamic-Programming
Authors: Bînzar Tudor , Pater Flavius , Nădăban Sorin
Published: September 2022

The aim of this paper is to provide new ways of dealing with dynamic programming using a context of newly proven results about fixed-point problems in linear spaces endowed with a fuzzy norm. In our paper, the general framework is set to fuzzy normed linear spaces as they are defined by Nădăban and Dzitac. When completeness is required, we will use the George and Veeramani (G-V) setup, which, for our purposes, we consider to be more suitable than Grabiec-completeness. As an important result of our work, we give an original proof for a version of Banach’s fixed-point principle on this particular setup of fuzzy normed spaces, a variant of Jungck’s fixed-point theorem in the same setup, and they are proved in G-V-complete fuzzy normed spaces, paving the way for future developments in various fields within this framework, where our application of dynamic programming makes a proper example. As the uniqueness of almost every dynamic programming problem is necessary, the fixed-point theorems represent an important tool in achieving that goal.