bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variable Temperature Spectroscopic Ellipsometry as a Tool for Insight into the Optical Order in the P3HT:PC70BM and PC70BM Layers
Authors: Hajduk Barbara , Jarka Paweł , Bednarski Henryk , Tański Tomasz
Published: September 2023

Two combined ellipsometric techniques—variable angle spectroscopic ellipsometry (VASE) and variable temperature spectroscopic ellipsometry (VTSE)—were used as tools to study the surface order and dielectric properties of thin films of a poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) mixture with a fullerene derivative (6,6-phenyl-C71-butyric acid methyl ester) (PC70BM). Under the influence of annealing, a layer of the ordered PC70BM phase was formed on the surface of the blend films. The dielectric function of the ordered PC70BM was determined for the first time and used in the ellipsometric modeling of the physical properties of the P3HT:PC70BM blend films, such as their dielectric function and thickness. The applied ellipsometric optical model of the polymer–fullerene blend treats the components of the blend as a mixture of optically ordered and disordered phases, using the effective medium approximation for this purpose. The results obtained using the constructed model showed that a layer of the ordered PC70BM phase was formed on the surface of the layer of the polymer and fullerene mixture. Namely, as a result of thermal annealing, the thickness of the layer of the ordered fullerene phase increased, while the thickness of the underlying material layer decreased.
A Comparative Study of Cr(VI) Sorption by Aureobasidium pullulans AKW Biomass and Its Extracellular Melanin: Complementary Modeling with Equilibrium Isotherms, Kinetic Studies, and Decision Tree Modeling
Authors: Fakhry Hala , Ghoniem Abeer A. , Al-Otibi Fatimah O. , Helmy Yosra A. , El Hersh Mohammed S. , Elattar Khaled M. , Saber WesamEldin I. A. , Elsayed Ashraf
Published: September 2023

Melanin as a natural polymer is found in all living organisms, and plays an important role in protecting the body from harmful UV rays from the sun. The efficiency of fungal biomass (Aureobasidium pullulans) and its extracellular melanin as Cr(VI) biosorbents was comparatively considered. The efficiency of Cr(VI) biosorption by the two sorbents used was augmented up to 240 min. The maximum sorption capacities were 485.747 (fungus biomass) and 595.974 (melanin) mg/g. The practical data were merely fitted to both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. The kinetics of the biosorption process obeyed the pseudo-first-order. Melanin was superior in Cr(VI) sorption than fungal biomass. Furthermore, four independent variables (contact time, initial concentration of Cr(VI), biosorbent dosage, and pH,) were modeled by the two decision trees (DTs). Conversely, to equilibrium isotherms and kinetic studies, DT of fungal biomass had lower errors compared to DT of melanin. Lately, the DTs improved the efficacy of the Cr(VI) removal process, thus introducing complementary and alternative solutions to equilibrium isotherms and kinetic studies. The Cr(VI) biosorption onto the biosorbents was confirmed and elucidated through FTIR, SEM, and EDX investigations. Conclusively, this is the first report study attaining the biosorption of Cr(VI) by biomass of A. pullulans and its extracellular melanin among equilibrium isotherms, kinetic study, and algorithmic decision tree modeling.
The Influence of Soft Segment Structure on the Properties of Polyurethanes
Authors: Ristić Ivan , Cakić Suzana , Vukić Nevena , Teofilović Vesna , Tanasić Jelena , Pilić Branka
Published: September 2023

A series of polyurethanes (PU) were synthesised via one-step polymerisation without a chain extender, using toluene diisocyanate as well as a variety of soft segments composed of different macrodiols. Poly(D,L-lactide) (PDLLA) and polycaprolactone diol (PCL) were synthesised as a polyester type polyols to obtain soft segments. The process of varying the molar ratio of newly synthesised PDLLA in soft segments has been confirmed as a powerful tool for fine-tuning the final properties of PU. Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy was used for evaluation of molecular structures of synthesised PDLLA polyol and final PU. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry was used to confirm the presumed structure of PU. The influence of soft segment composition on polyurethane thermal characteristics was examined using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The composition of soft segments had little impact on the thermal stability of PU materials, which is explained by the comparable structures of both polyester polyols. Wide-angle X-ray scattering was utilised to evaluate the effect of amorphous PDLLA on the degree of crystallinity of PCL in soft PU segments. It was discovered that not only did the PDLLA ratio in the soft segment have a substantial influence on the degree of microphase separation in the soft and hard segments, but it also influenced the crystallisation behaviour of the materials. Furthermore, the restriction of crystallisation of the PCL soft segment has been verified to be dependent on the hard segment concentration and the ratio of PDLLA/PCL polyols. The sample with pure PCL as the polyol component achieved the highest degree of crystallinity (34.8%). The results demonstrated that the composition of soft segments directly affected the properties of obtained polyurethane films. These results can be utilised to easily achieve a desirable set of properties required for application in biomaterials.
Synthesis, Characterization and Application of Biobased Unsaturated Polyester Resin Reinforced with Unmodified/Modified Biosilica Nanoparticles
Authors: Embirsh Hifa Salah Adeen , Stajčić Ivana , Gržetić Jelena , Mladenović Ivana O. , Anđelković Boban , Marinković Aleksandar , Vuksanović Marija M.
Published: September 2023

This paper presents sustainable technology for environmentally friendly composite production. Biobased unsaturated polyester resin (b-UPR), synthesized from waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) glycosylate and renewable origin maleic anhydride (MAnh) and propylene glycol (PG), was reinforced with unmodified and vinyl-modified biosilica nanoparticles obtained from rice husk. The structural and morphological properties of the obtained particles, b-UPR, as well as composites, were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. The study of the influence of biosilica modification on the mechanical properties of composites was supported by hardness modeling. Improvement of the tensile strength of the b-UPR-based composite at 2.5 wt.% addition of biosilica modified with vinyl silane, named “b-UPR/SiO2-V” composite, has been achieved with 88% increase. The thermal aging process applied to the b-UPR/SiO2-V composite, which simulates use over the product’s lifetime, leads to the deterioration of composites that were used as fillers in commercial unsaturated polyester resin (c-UPR). The grinded artificially aged b-UPR composites were used as filler in c-UPR for the production of a table top layer with outstanding mechanical properties, i.e., impact resistance and microhardness, as well as fire resistance rated in the V-0 category according to the UL-94 test. Developing sustainable composites that are chemically synthesized from renewable sources is important from the aspect of preserving the environment and existing resources as well as the extending their life cycle.
Composite Bone Cements with Enhanced Drug Elution
Authors: Cherednichenko Kirill , Sayfutdinova Adeliya , Rimashevskiy Denis , Malik Birzhan , Panchenko Andrey , Kopitsyna Maria , Ragnaev Stanislav , Vinokurov Vladimir , Voronin Denis , Kopitsyn Dmitry
Published: September 2023

Antibiotic-loaded bone cement (ALBC) has become an indispensable material in orthopedic surgery in recent decades, owing to the possibility of drugs delivery to the surgical site. It is applied for both infection prophylaxis (e.g., in primary joint arthroplasty) and infection treatment (e.g., in periprosthetic infection). However, the introduction of antibiotic to the polymer matrix diminishes the mechanical strength of the latter. Moreover, the majority of the loaded antibiotic remains embedded in polymer and does not participate in drug elution. Incorporation of the various additives to ALBC can help to overcome these issues. In this paper, four different natural micro/nanoscale materials (halloysite, nanocrystalline cellulose, micro- and nanofibrillated cellulose) were tested as additives to commercial Simplex P bone cement preloaded with vancomycin. The influence of all four materials on the polymerization process was comprehensively studied, including the investigation of the maximum temperature of polymerization, setting time, and monomer leaching. The introduction of the natural additives led to a considerable enhancement of drug elution and microhardness in the composite bone cements compared to ALBC. The best combination of the polymerization rate, monomer leaching, antibiotic release, and microhardness was observed for the sample containing nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC).
Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Activity of Chitosan Nanoparticles against Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Pereira Sara , Costa-Ribeiro Ana , Teixeira Pilar , Rodríguez-Lorenzo Laura , Prado Marta , Cerqueira Miguel A. , Garrido-Maestu Alejandro
Published: September 2023

Chitosan is obtained from the deacetylation of chitin, and it is known to possess antimicrobial activity. It has attracted attention as it may be used for treating infections caused by different types of microorganisms due to its broad spectrum. Its application in the form of micro- or nanoparticles (CM/CN) has expanded its usage, as in this form, it retains its activity, and remain stable in aqueous solutions. However, inconsistencies in the results reported by different authors have been identified. In this communication, the antimicrobial activity of CN produced from different starting materials was tested against Listeria monocytogenes. It was observed that, even though all the starting materials were reported to have a molecular weight (MW) below 200 kDa and degree of deacetylation (DD) > 75%, the size of the CNs were significantly different (263 nm vs. 607 nm). Furthermore, these differences in sizes exerted a direct effect on the antimicrobial properties of the particles, as when testing the ones with the smallest size, i.e., 263 nm, a lower Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was achieved, i.e., 0.04 mg/mL. Even though the largest particles, i.e., 607 nm, in individual experiments were able to achieve an MIC of 0.03 mg/mL, the results with CN presented great variation among replicates and up to 0.2 mg/mL were needed in other replicates. The starting material has a critical impact on the properties of the CN, and it must be carefully characterized and selected for the intended application, and MW and DD solely do not fully account for these properties.
From Selfcare to Taking Care of Our Common Home: Spirituality as an Integral and Transformative Healthy Lifestyle
Authors: Villas Boas Alex , Esperandio Mary Rute Gomes , Caldeira Sílvia , Incerti Fabiano
Published: September 2023

One of the great threats to health in the 21st century is the relationship between health and environmental issues, as there is an inevitable relationship between the planet’s degradation and health problems. In this sense, health is also seen as a problem of public order, and more precisely of political order, to the extent that such an environmental issue implies public health as a social value that affects the spaces of political decision making; moreover, to the extent that the environmental issue also intersects with the religious issue, namely with the 2030 Agenda in the 21st century. This article intends to think about how such a confluence occurs regarding religion, public health, and the environment, considering how spiritual care provided in the healthcare domain is related to care in the common home (Cf. CITER, Project «Common home and new ways of living interculturally: Public theology and ecology of culture in pandemic times»). In particular, this article intends to analyse such issues in Brazilian and Portuguese contexts.
DRL-Based Dynamic Destroy Approaches for Agile-Satellite Mission Planning
Authors: Huang Wei , Li Zongwang , He Xiaohe , Xiang Junyan , Du Xu , Liang Xuwen
Published: September 2023

Agile-satellite mission planning is a crucial issue in the construction of satellite constellations. The large scale of remote sensing missions and the high complexity of constraints in agile-satellite mission planning pose challenges in the search for an optimal solution. To tackle the issue, a dynamic destroy deep-reinforcement learning (D3RL) model is designed to facilitate subsequent optimization operations via adaptive destruction to the existing solutions. Specifically, we first perform a clustering and embedding operation to reconstruct tasks into a clustering graph, thereby improving data utilization. Secondly, the D3RL model is established based on graph attention networks (GATs) to enhance the search efficiency for optimal solutions. Moreover, we present two applications of the D3RL model for intensive scenes: the deep-reinforcement learning (DRL) method and the D3RL-based large-neighborhood search method (DRL-LNS). Experimental simulation results illustrate that the D3RL-based approaches outperform the competition in terms of solutions’ quality and computational efficiency, particularly in more challenging large-scale scenarios. DRL-LNS outperforms ALNS with an average scheduling rate improvement of approximately 11% in Area instances. In contrast, the DRL approach performs better in World scenarios, with an average scheduling rate that is around 8% higher than that of ALNS.
A Handheld LiDAR-Based Semantic Automatic Segmentation Method for Complex Railroad Line Model Reconstruction
Authors: Chen Junjie , Su Qian , Niu Yunbin , Zhang Zongyu , Liu Jinghao
Published: September 2023

To ensure efficient railroad operation and maintenance management, the accurate reconstruction of railroad BIM models is a crucial step. This paper proposes a workflow for automated segmentation and reconstruction of railroad structures using point cloud data, without relying on intensity or trajectory information. The workflow consists of four main components: point cloud adaptive denoising, scene segmentation, structure segmentation combined with deep learning, and model reconstruction. The proposed workflow was validated using two datasets with significant differences in railroad line point cloud data. The results demonstrated significant improvements in both efficiency and accuracy compared to existing methods. The techniques enable direct automated processing from raw data to segmentation results, providing data support for parameterized modeling and greatly reducing manual processing time. The proposed algorithms achieved an intersection over union (IoU) of over 0.9 for various structures in a 450-m-long railroad line. Furthermore, for single-track railroads, the automated segmentation time was within 1 min per kilometer, with an average mean intersection over union (MIoU) and accuracy of 0.9518 and 1.0000, respectively.
Multi-Stage Multi-Scale Local Feature Fusion for Infrared Small Target Detection
Authors: Wang Yahui , Tian Yan , Liu Jijun , Xu Yiping
Published: September 2023

The detection of small infrared targets with dense distributions and large-scale variations is an extremely challenging problem. This paper proposes a multi-stage, multi-scale local feature fusion method for infrared small target detection to address this problem. The method is based on multi-stage and multi-scale local feature fusion. Firstly, considering the significant variation in target sizes, ResNet-18 is utilized to extract image features at different stages. Then, for each stage, multi-scale feature pyramids are employed to obtain corresponding multi-scale local features. Secondly, to enhance the detection rate of densely distributed targets, the multi-stage and multi-scale features are progressively fused and concatenated to form the final fusion results. Finally, the fusion results are fed into the target detector for detection. The experimental results for the SIRST and MDFA demonstrate that the proposed method effectively improves the performance of infrared small target detection. The proposed method achieved mIoU values of 63.43% and 46.29% on two datasets, along with F-measure values of 77.62% and 63.28%, respectively.
A Space–Time–Range Joint Adaptive Focusing and Detection Method for Multiple Input Multiple Output Radar
Authors: Guan Jian , Mu Xiaoqian , Huang Yong , Chen Baoxin , Liu Ningbo , Chen Xiaolong
Published: September 2023

The Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) radar, as a new type of radar, emits orthogonal waveforms, which provide it with waveform diversity characteristics, leading to increased degrees of freedom and improved target detection performance. However, it also poses challenges such as difficulty in meeting higher data demand, separating waveforms, and suppressing the multidimensional sidelobes (range sidelobes, Doppler sidelobes, and angle sidelobes) of targets. Phase-coded signals are frequently employed as orthogonal transmission signals in the MIMO radar. However, these signals exhibit poor Doppler sensitivity, and the intra-pulse Doppler frequency shift can have an impact on the effectiveness of the matching filtering process. To address the aforementioned concerns, this paper presents a novel approach called the Space–Time–Range Joint Adaptive Focusing and Detection (STRJAFD) method. The proposed method utilizes the Mean Square Error (MSE) criterion and integrates spatial, temporal, and waveform dimensions to achieve efficient adaptive focusing and detection of targets. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms conventional cascaded adaptive methods in effectively addressing the matching mismatch issue caused by Doppler frequency shift, achieving super-resolution focusing, possessing better suppression effects on three-dimensional sidelobes and clutter, and exhibiting better detection performance in low signal-to-clutter ratio and low signal-to-noise ratio environments. Furthermore, STRJAFD is unaffected by coherent sources and demands less data.
A Generic, Multimodal Geospatial Data Alignment System for Aerial Navigation
Authors: Martin-Lac Victor , Petit-Frere Jacques , Le Caillec Jean-Marc
Published: September 2023

We present a template matching algorithm based on local descriptors for aligning two geospatial products of different modalities with a large area asymmetry. Our system is generic with regards to the modalities of the geospatial products and is applicable to the self-localization of aerial devices such as drones and missiles. This algorithm consists in finding a superposition such that the average dissimilarity of the superposed points is minimal. The dissimilarity of two points belonging to two different geospatial products is the distance between their respective local descriptors. These local descriptors are learned. We performed experiments consisting in estimating a translation between optical (Pléiades) and SAR (Miranda) images onto vector data (OpenStreetMap), onto optical images (DOP) and onto SAR images (KOMPSAT-5). Each remote sensing image to be aligned covered 0.64 km2, and each reference geospatial product spanned over 225 km2. We conducted a total of 381 alignment experiments, with six unique modality combinations. In aggregate, the precision reached was finer than 10 m with 72% probability and finer than 20 m with 96% probability. This is considerably more than with traditional methods such as normalized cross-correlation and mutual information.
The Dynamics and Microphysical Characteristics of the Convection Producing the Record-Breaking Hourly Precipitation on 20 July 2021 in Zhengzhou, China
Authors: Zhao Kun , Xu Xin , Xue Ming , Tan Zhe-Min , Huang Hao , Zhou Ang , Fan Xueqi , Liu Qiqing , Wang Chenli , Fang Juan , Lee Wen-Chau , Zhang Qinghong , Zhang Fan , Chen Gang , Yang Ji
Published: September 2023

An hourly rainfall of 201.9 mm fell in Zhengzhou on 20 July 2021, breaking the hourly rainfall record of mainland China and causing severe urban flooding and human casualties. This observation-based study investigates the associated convective-scale and mesoscale dynamics and microphysical processes using disdrometer and polarimetric radar observations aided by retrievals from the Variational Doppler Radar Analysis System. The synoptic flow forcing brought abundant moisture from the oceans and converged at Zhengzhou; then, the extreme rainfall was produced by a slow-moving convective storm that persisted throughout the hour over Zhengzhou. Unusually high concentrations of raindrops of all sizes (showing combined properties of maritime and continental convection) are revealed by the disdrometer data, whereas the polarimetric radar data suggest that both ice-based and warm rain processes were important contributors to the total rainfall. High precipitation efficiency was achieved with an erect updraft at the low levels, whereas enhanced easterly inflows kept the storm moving slowly. The interaction between convective-scale and mesoscale dynamics and microphysical processes within the favorable synoptic conditions led to this extremely heavy rainfall.
Weighted Maximum Correntropy Criterion-Based Interacting Multiple-Model Filter for Maneuvering Target Tracking
Authors: Huai Liangliang , Li Bo , Yun Peng , Song Chao , Wang Jiayuan
Published: September 2023

During the process of maneuvering target tracking, the measurement may be disturbed by outliers, which leads to a decrease in the state estimation performance of the classic interacting multiple-model (IMM) filter. To solve this problem, a weighted maximum correntropy criterion (WMCC)-based IMM filter is proposed. In the proposed filter, the fusion state is used as the input of each sub-model to reduce the computational complexity of state interaction and the WMCC is adopted to derive the sub-model state update and state fusion to improve the state estimation performance under outlier interference. Through principal analysis, the superiority of the proposed filter over the classic IMM filter in fusion strategy is revealed. The specific form of the proposed filter in radar maneuvering target tracking is provided. Two experimental cases of maneuvering target tracking are tested to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed filter.
Computer Vision-Based Bridge Inspection and Monitoring: A Review
Authors: Luo Kui , Kong Xuan , Zhang Jie , Hu Jiexuan , Li Jinzhao , Tang Hao
Published: September 2023

Bridge inspection and monitoring are usually used to evaluate the status and integrity of bridge structures to ensure their safety and reliability. Computer vision (CV)-based methods have the advantages of being low cost, simple to operate, remote, and non-contact, and have been widely used in bridge inspection and monitoring in recent years. Therefore, this paper reviews three significant aspects of CV-based methods, including surface defect detection, vibration measurement, and vehicle parameter identification. Firstly, the general procedure for CV-based surface defect detection is introduced, and its application for the detection of cracks, concrete spalling, steel corrosion, and multi-defects is reviewed, followed by the robot platforms for surface defect detection. Secondly, the basic principle of CV-based vibration measurement is introduced, followed by the application of displacement measurement, modal identification, and damage identification. Finally, the CV-based vehicle parameter identification methods are introduced and their application for the identification of temporal and spatial parameters, weight parameters, and multi-parameters are summarized. This comprehensive literature review aims to provide guidance for selecting appropriate CV-based methods for bridge inspection and monitoring.
MAE-Based Self-Supervised Pretraining Algorithm for Heart Rate Estimation of Radar Signals
Authors: Xiang Yashan , Guo Jian , Chen Ming , Wang Zheyu , Han Chong
Published: September 2023

Noncontact heart rate monitoring techniques based on millimeter-wave radar have advantages in unique medical scenarios. However, the accuracy of the existing noncontact heart rate estimation methods is still limited by interference, such as DC offsets, respiratory harmonics, and environmental noise. Additionally, these methods still require longer observation times. Most deep learning methods related to heart rate estimation still need to collect more heart rate marker data for training. To address the above problems, this paper introduces a radar signal-based heart rate estimation network named the “masked phase autoencoders with a vision transformer network” (MVN). This network is grounded on masked autoencoders (MAEs) for self-supervised pretraining and a vision transformer (ViT) for transfer learning. During the phase preprocessing stage, phase differencing and interpolation smoothing are performed on the input phase signal. In the self-supervised pretraining step, masked self-supervised training is performed on the phase signal using the MAE network. In the transfer learning stage, the encoder segment of the MAE network is integrated with the ViT network to enable transfer learning using labeled heart rate data. The innovative MVN offers a dual advantage—it not only reduces the cost associated with heart rate data acquisition but also adeptly addresses the issue of respiratory harmonic interference, which is an improvement over conventional signal processing methods. The experimental results show that the process in this paper improves the accuracy of heart rate estimation while reducing the requisite observation time.
Development of a Low-Cost Portable EMG for Measuring the Muscular Activity of Workers in the Field
Authors: Garouche Mohamed , Thamsuwan Ornwipa
Published: September 2023

This study explores the development and validation of a low-cost electromyography (EMG) device for monitoring muscle activity and muscle fatigue by monitoring the key features in EMG time and frequency domains. The device consists of a Raspberry Pico microcontroller interfacing a Myoware EMG module. The experiment involved 34 volunteers (14 women, 20 men) who performed isometric and isotonic contractions using a hand dynamometer. The low-cost EMG device was compared to a research-grade EMG device, recording EMG signals simultaneously. Key features including root mean square (RMS), median power frequency (MDF), and mean power frequency (MNF) were extracted to evaluate muscle fatigue. During isometric contraction, a strong congruence between the two devices, with similar readings and behavior of the extracted features, was observed, and the Wilcoxon signed rank test confirmed no significant difference in the ability to detect muscle fatigue between the devices. For isotonic contractions, the low-cost device demonstrated behavior similar to the professional EMG device in 70.58% of cases, despite some susceptibility to noise and movement. This suggests the potential viability of the low-cost EMG device as a portable tool for assessing muscle fatigue, enabling accessible and cost-effective management of muscle health in various work scenarios.
Predicting the Spatial Distribution of Hyalomma ssp., Vector Ticks of Crimean–Congo Haemorrhagic Fever in Iraq
Authors: Khwarahm Nabaz R.
Published: September 2023

Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) typically spreads through ticks and is categorized as a viral hemorrhagic fever. CCHF is a fatal endemic disease in Iraq, and it has been reported sporadically since its first report in 1979. Recent outbreaks during 2021–2023 and their fatal consequences captured the interest of this study. CCHF is a tick-borne disease that represents a major challenge to the public health, social, and economic sectors. The geographical distribution of CCHF is closely linked with Hyalomma vector tick distribution. Therefore, predicting and mapping the spatial distribution of the disease vector in relation to relevant environmental factors provides invaluable information for establishing an early warning system based on which preventive measures can be taken to minimize the spread and, hence, the fatal consequences of CCHF. To achieve this, this study incorporates geospatial techniques and maximum entropy modeling (Maxent) to assess the habitat suitability of the Hyalomma vector and to identify the key environmental drivers contributing to its spatial distribution in Iraq. Utilizing the area under the ROC curve (AUC) as the performance metric, the model evaluation yielded successful results in predicting habitat suitability for Hyalomma vector ticks in Iraq. The AUC attained an average score of 0.885 with a regularization multiplier (β) set at 1. The Hyalomma ticks’ suitable habitat distribution within the study area covers a fraction of the total land, at approximately 51% (225,665 km2) of the entire 441,724 km2 region. Among these suitable areas, 41.57% (183,631 km2) were classified as lowly suitable, 8.61% (38,039 km2) as moderately suitable, and 0.9% (3994 km2) as highly suitable. Several factors have significantly influenced Hyalomma vector tick distribution in Iraq. These include land cover (accounting for 50.8%), elevation (contributing 30.4%), NDVI (5.7%), temperature seasonality (4.7%), precipitation seasonality (3.3%), sheep density (2.3%), goat density (2.2%), and the mean diurnal range (0.5%). The findings of this study could have significant implications for establishing a strategic early warning system and taking preventive measures beforehand to minimize and control Crimean–Congo haemorrhagic fever in Iraq and similar ecoregions in the Middle East. As a primary precaution, this study recommends focusing on highly suitable areas (3994 km2) in the southern part of Iraq for management and preventive actions.
Enhancing Zero-Carbon Building Operation and Maintenance: A Correlation-Based Data Mining Approach for Database Analysis
Authors: Zhao Yuhong , Liu Ruirui , Liu Zhansheng , Lu Yun , Liu Liang , Wang Jingjing , Liu Wenxiang
Published: September 2023

In the context of global climate change and the increasing focus on carbon emissions, carbon emission research has become a prominent area of study. However, research in this field inevitably involves extensive monitoring, and when the data become complex and chaotic, the accuracy of these data can be challenging to control, making it difficult to determine their reliability. This article starts by exploring the operational and maintenance data of zero-carbon buildings, aiming to uncover the correlation between energy consumption data and environmental data. This correlation is categorized into two main types: linear correlation and trend correlation. By establishing error degree calculations based on these correlation relationships, anomaly detection can be performed on the data. Analyzing the interrelationships between these datasets allows for the formulation of appropriate fitting equations, primarily consisting of linear and polynomial fits, all of which exhibit a determination coefficient exceeding 0.99. These fitting equations are then utilized to correct errors in the anomalous data, and the reasonableness of the fitting methods is demonstrated by examining the residual distribution. The final results align with the corresponding expectations, providing a concise and effective correction method for monitoring data in zero-carbon smart buildings. Importantly, this method exhibits a certain level of generality and can be applied to various scenarios within the realm of zero-carbon buildings.
Knowledge of Trainee Teachers about the New Water Culture: A Comparative Study between Two Spanish Cities
Authors: Ramírez-Segado Alejandra , Rodríguez-Serrano María , Castro-Velásquez Freddy Enrique , Benarroch Alicia Benarroch
Published: September 2023

Education is the main tool society has for transforming cultural habits and making them more sustainable. This work entails a comparative study in the sphere of initial teacher training regarding the knowledge of future educators on the New Water Culture (NWC). An ad-hoc questionnaire was administered to a sample of 1387 future primary and secondary school teachers studying in Granada (N = 942) and Melilla (N = 455), both Spanish cities with diverse education and water conditions. The results indicate that the trainee teachers in Granada display knowledge more in line with the NWC. However, there are contents where the results are inverted due to the media impact regarding water in Melilla. Furthermore, it is confirmed that both groups lack correct training that allows them to transfer appropriate knowledge effectively and thus create new behaviours in future generations in a visible and permanent way.
Assessing and Ranking EU Cities Based on the Development Phase of the Smart City Concept
Authors: Correia Diogo , Marques João Lourenço , Teixeira Leonor
Published: September 2023

Policymakers face numerous challenges in benchmarking and assessing cities’ current development states. This study extends the understandings of previous research to provide a new perspective about how to rank smart cities’ developments by comparing the existing initiatives with city population density (as a proxy of socio-demographic characteristics) and the respective smart city phase. Quantitative analysis was performed to cluster the European Union cities according to the number of existing projects in the literature organized by smart city categories. Furthermore, to allow for the assessment of the city’s state, a composite indicator was developed that takes into consideration the different category weights to ultimately provide a smart city ranking. By clustering the categories using a Principal Component Analysis (PCA), it was possible to relate them with a specific smart city phase. In addition, for a reasonable benchmark, the city’s population density was considered. Moreover, this paper ranks the cities of the European Union and provides insightful information about the development phase of the smart city concept of each territory. The results show that on a normalized scale of 0 to 1000, the largest cities or the ones with most initiatives do not rank first. Furthermore, it shows that in similar socio-demographic contexts, there are variations in the smart city stage. Therefore, applying the contribution and findings of this research can help identify these differences and establish a set of best practices for improving the design and effectiveness of smart city strategies.
When CSR Matters: The Moderating Effect of Industrial Growth Rate on the Relationship between CSR and Firm Performance
Authors: Chang Yu Jin , Yoo Jae Wook
Published: September 2023

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become a management strategy that simultaneously pursues societal and company sustainable development. Additionally, CSR is becoming a key strategy to secure competitiveness and sustainability by improving a company’s reputation and creating new business opportunities. Thus, expectations and demands for companies’ social impacts and sustainability from various stakeholders, such as shareholders, consumers, employees, and local communities, have begun to rise. This study focused on the distinctive factor of rapid economic growth, which characterizes Korean development, and analyzed the relationship between CSR and firm performance according to the industries’ growth rates. Regression analysis was conducted through multi-level analysis using data from a sample of 102 companies that prepared sustainability reports or ESG reports in Korea; the research results are as follows. First, CSR activities have a positive impact on firm performance. Second, when CSR activities increase, the firm performance increases faster for companies in the high-growth industry group than those in the low-growth industry group. Furthermore, we conducted additional analyses to examine the moderating effect of industry growth and found that companies in the high-growth industry group had higher overall CSR levels than those in the low-growth industry group. This study’s results provide meaningful implications for understanding how CSR affects a company’s economic performance and acts as a way to strike a balance between industrial development and fulfilling social responsibility.
Advancement of Abiotic Stresses for Microalgal Lipid Production and Its Bioprospecting into Sustainable Biofuels
Authors: Singh Rahul Prasad , Yadav Priya , Kumar Indrajeet , Solanki Manoj Kumar , Roychowdhury Rajib , Kumar Ajay , Gupta Rajan Kumar
Published: September 2023

The world is currently facing global energy crises and escalating environmental pollution, which are caused by the extensive exploitation of conventional energy sources. The limited availability of conventional energy sources has opened the door to the search for alternative energy sources. In this regard, microalgae have emerged as a promising substitute for conventional energy sources due to their high photosynthetic rate, high carbohydrate and lipid content, efficient CO2 fixation capacity, and ability to thrive in adverse environments. The research and development of microalgal-based biofuel as a clean and sustainable alternative energy source has been ongoing for many years, but it has not yet been widely adopted commercially. However, it is currently gaining greater attention due to the integrated biorefinery concept. This study provides an in-depth review of recent advances in microalgae cultivation techniques and explores methods for increasing lipid production by manipulating environmental factors. Furthermore, our discussions have covered high lipid content microalgal species, harvesting methods, biorefinery concepts, process optimizing software tools, and the accumulation of triglycerides in lipid droplets. The study additionally explores the influence of abiotic stresses on the response of biosynthetic genes involved in lipid synthesis and metabolism. In conclusion, algae-based biofuels offer a viable alternative to traditional fuels for meeting the growing demand for energy.
Evaluation of Tourism Ecological Security Based on Driving Force–Pressure–State–Influence–Response Framework and Analysis of Its Dynamic Evolution Characteristics and Driving Factors in Chinese Province Territory
Authors: Li Yingchang , Liu Zhenzhen , Liu Gaifang
Published: September 2023

Tourism ecological security (TES) is an important measure of the sustainable development of the tourism industry. It is also an important indicator for evaluating the balance between economic growth and the environmental load of tourism destinations. Therefore, the scientific measurement and examination of TES have important theoretical and practical value in promoting the coordinated and sustainable development of the regional tourism economy and ecological environment. From the perspective of systems theory, based on the driving force–pressure–state–influence–response model, the theoretical framework and index system of China’s provincial TES were constructed. The Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution method, spatial autocorrelation, traditional and spatial Markov chain, ordinary least squares regression, and geographically and temporally weighted regression model were used to analyze the dynamic evolution characteristics and driving factors of TES. The results indicated the following: (1) Regarding time series, the average value of TES was generally relatively stable with small fluctuations, the differences among provinces exhibited a converging trend, and a significant spatial correlation was observed between the TES of provinces. (2) In terms of dynamic evolution, the transfer of TES types exhibited “path dependence” and “self-locking” effects, meaning the probability of transfer to other types was low, and the status and transfer of TES types were closely related to their neighborhood status. (3) Regarding the driving factors, except for the negative inhibitory effect of environmental pollution on TES, all other variables had a positive promoting effect on TES; however, the effect of each variable in different provinces varied significantly. The results and methods used in this study can enrich the research on TES and provide a theoretical basis and decision-making reference for the healthy and sustainable development of the tourism industry in Chinese provinces.
Sustainability Reporting: Examining the Community Impact of the S&P500 Companies
Authors: Pistikou Victoria , Flouros Floros , Deirmentzoglou Georgios A. , Agoraki Konstantina K.
Published: September 2023

In recent decades, sustainability reporting has received increasing business and academic attention. However, the management literature is limited regarding recent trends in the issues disclosed in these reports. In this era of multiple socio-economic crises (e.g., the global energy crisis, the Russo–Ukrainian war, and the COVID-19 pandemic), large companies have an even greater responsibility to the communities in which they operate. Given the above, the aim of this study was to examine recent sustainability reports and identify issues related to community impact. Specifically, the sustainability reports of S&P500 companies were analyzed using the Structural Topic Model in R. The results showed that the most common topics in sustainability disclosures related to community impact were “donations” and “STEM education”. Although “donations” as a topic was expected, “STEM education” emerged to highlight the importance of technology in today’s business world. These findings have important managerial and theoretical implications for sustainability reporting.
Perceived Destination Image Cohesion: A Comparison Study of Attractions on the Grand Canal, China
Authors: Jiang Shan , Scott Noel , Tao Li , Xiong Shiqi , Qin Yuan
Published: September 2023

The Grand Canal is located in the north-eastern and central-eastern plains of China, running from Beijing in the north to Zhejiang province in the south, and is the longest canal in the world (1800 km) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From a tourism perspective, the Grand Canal can be considered as a linear heritage attraction linking many individual heritage sites. This research was conducted with a mixed qualitative–quantitative method in the 2021–2022 period. First, in-depth interviews with an unstructured methodology of image measurements were conducted to determine attributes of the perceived destination image (PDI) of the Grand Canal as a whole. Next, a measurement scale was developed using these attributes to examine the PDI of two canal sites near Beijing. A total of 274 valid questionnaires were used for data analysis. The results identify differences between the two sites’ PDI and the overall image of the Grand Canal. The t-test results shows that, in terms of the CDI, Shichahai Park has much better tourism activities, while Tongzhou Canal Park has better water quality. Shichahai Park’s ADI provides a stronger image of pride/impressive heritage of the Tongzhou Canal Park. Based on these results, a marketing strategy is proposed and discussed. This is the first study to develop a method and measurement scale to examine cohesion in the PDI of linear heritage attractions. The method may be used by other linear heritage management practitioners to link their attractions.
Mapping and Quantification of Soil Erosion and Sediment Delivery in Poorly Developed Urban Areas: A Case Study
Authors: Dawoud Osama , Eljamassi Alaeddinne , Abunada Ziyad
Published: September 2023

Poorly developed regions in the Gaza Strip, Palestine, face significant risks to public safety, the environment, and stormwater infrastructure due to soil erosion and deposition. This study is the first of its kind to investigate soil erosion in this area. A revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) model was utilized and validated using field measurements of accumulated sediments at three major stormwater detention basins from 2014 to 2020. High-resolution maps were created to capture the urbanization effect and to further improve the future prediction of urbanization. The findings revealed that the highest potential for sediment generation in the Gaza governorate occurred over the slopes of the eastern ridge, which drain toward the city center. Sediment generation ranged from 1784 to 4281 ton/ha for the years of 2018 and 2020, respectively. The average sediment delivery ratio (SDR) was calculated to be 0.00134. The estimations for sediment export ranged from 0 to 135.3 ton/ha for the year 2020, with an average of 0.0737 ton/ha. The urban areas exhibited the least sediment export rate; however, the model revealed abnormal behavior for a dataset of the field measurements which was ascribed to the impact of destruction/reconstruction activities in the corresponded watersheds that followed the war in 2014. This conducted research stands as a pioneering effort in quantifying and cartographically representing sediment erosion potential within the Gaza Strip. Thus, it serves as an indispensable point of reference for future researchers in terms of the employed parameterization and calibration methodology. Furthermore, it holds distinct significance as an unparalleled resource for experts and stakeholders who are invested in comprehending the ramifications of erosion on urban landscapes and drainage systems.
The Influence of Residential Behavior on Dwelling Energy Consumption and Comfort in Hot-Summer and Cold-Winter Zone of China—Taking Shanghai as an Example
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Hu Yanzhe
Published: September 2023

Human behavior plays a key role in building energy consumption, especially in residential buildings. Residents in the hot-summer and cold-winter zone of China tend to use energy in a “partial-time, part-of-the-space” manner. With the improvement in people’s living standards, the energy consumption of residential buildings in this region has been increasing. Exploring the building energy efficiency methods that suit the local residents’ energy use habits while ensuring building comfort levels is of great importance. This paper investigates the impact of living behavior on residential energy consumption and comfort in this region, focusing on personnel-in-room conditions, use of air-conditioning equipment, and window opening. Firstly, a questionnaire survey was conducted to analyze the energy use behaviors and the mentality of residents in the Jiangsu–Zhejiang–Shanghai Area of China. Then, based on the current situation of the household structure in Shanghai, 10 households were selected and monitored for a period of 8 months. Their energy use patterns were summarized to obtain a standard sample. Finally, the energy consumption simulation software DeST 2.0 was used to analyze the impact of each usage element on comfort and energy consumption. A dual-index evaluation of energy consumption and comfort is proposed for the first time. This paper found that respondents placed about a 6:4 important ratio on “comfort” and “energy efficiency” in their dwellings and that the importance placed on comfort increased from low-energy to high-energy households. Behaviors such as “gathering more in the living room” and “open windows as much as possible in the summer and appropriately in the winter” were more beneficial to both comfort and energy efficiency.