bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Fair Channel Hopping Scheme for LoRa Networks with Multiple Single-Channel Gateways
Authors: Figueiredo Alexandre , Luís Miguel , Zúquete André
Published: July 2022

LoRa is one of the most prominent LPWAN technologies due to its suitable characteristics for supporting large-scale IoT networks, as it offers long-range communications at low power consumption. The latter is granted mainly because end-nodes transmit directly to the gateways and no energy is spent in multi-hop transmissions. LoRaWAN gateways can successfully receive simultaneous transmissions on multiple channels. However, such gateways can be costly when compared to simpler single-channel LoRa transceivers, and at the same time they are configured to operate with pure-ALOHA, the well-known and fragile channel access scheme used in LoRaWAN. This work presents a fair, control-based channel hopping-based medium access scheme for LoRa networks with multiple single-channel gateways. Compared with the pure-ALOHA used in LoRaWAN, the protocol proposed here achieves higher goodput and fairness levels because each device can choose its most appropriate channel to transmit at a higher rate and spending less energy. Several simulation results considering different network densities and different numbers of single-channel LoRa gateways show that our proposal is able to achieve a packet delivery ratio (PDR) of around 18% for a network size of 2000 end-nodes and one gateway, and a PDR of almost 50% when four LoRa gateways are considered, compared to 2% and 6%, respectively, achieved by the pure-ALOHA approach.
Classification of Three Volatiles Using a Single-Type eNose with Detailed Class-Map Visualization
Authors: Palacín Jordi , Rubies Elena , Clotet Eduard
Published: July 2022

The use of electronic noses (eNoses) as analysis tools are growing in popularity; however, the lack of a comprehensive, visual representation of how the different classes are organized and distributed largely complicates the interpretation of the classification results, thus reducing their practicality. The new contributions of this paper are the assessment of the multivariate classification performance of a custom, low-cost eNose composed of 16 single-type (identical) MOX gas sensors for the classification of three volatiles, along with a proposal to improve the visual interpretation of the classification results by means of generating a detailed 2D class-map representation based on the inverse of the orthogonal linear transformation obtained from a PCA and LDA analysis. The results showed that this single-type eNose implementation was able to perform multivariate classification, while the class-map visualization summarized the learned features and how these features may affect the performance of the classification, simplifying the interpretation and understanding of the eNose results.
Survey of Decomposition-Reconstruction-Based Hybrid Approaches for Short-Term Traffic State Forecasting
Authors: Chen Yu , Wang Wei , Hua Xuedong , Zhao De
Published: July 2022

Traffic state prediction provides key information for intelligent transportation systems (ITSs) for proactive traffic management, the importance of which has become the reason for the tremendous number of research papers in this field. Over the last few decades, the decomposition-reconstruction (DR) hybrid models have been favored by numerous researchers to provide a more robust framework for short-term traffic state prediction for ITSs. This study surveyed DR-based works for short-term traffic state forecasting that were reported in the past circa twenty years, particularly focusing on how decomposition and reconstruction strategies could be utilized to enhance the predictability and interpretability of basic predictive models of traffic parameters. The reported DR-based models were classified and their applications in this area were scrutinized. Discussion and potential future directions are also provided to support more sophisticated applications. This work offers modelers suggestions and helps to choose appropriate decomposition and reconstruction strategies in their research and applications.
A Novel Routing Protocol Based on Elliptical Shaped Movement of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles in Data Gathering Process for Underwater Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Ali Ghulam , Ali Tariq , Hassan Insha Ul , Shaf Ahmad , Irfan Muhammad , Nowakowski Grzegorz , Kielkowicz Kazimierz , Glowacz Adam , Alqhtani Samar M.
Published: July 2022

High end-to-end delay is a significant challenge in the data collection process in the underwater environment. Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) are a considerably reliable source of data collection if they have significant trajectory movement. Therefore, in this paper, a new routing algorithm known as Elliptical Shaped Efficient Data Gathering (ESEDG) is introduced for the AUV movement. ESEDG is divided into two phases: first, an elliptical trajectory has been designed for the horizontal movement of the AUV. In the second phase, the AUV gathers data from Gateway Nodes (GNs) which are associated with Member Nodes (MNs). For their association, an end-to-end delay model is also presented in ESEDG. The hierarchy of data collection is as follows: MNs send data to GNs, the AUV receives data from GNs, and forwards it to the sink node. Furthermore, the ESEDG was evaluated on the network simulator NS-3 version 3.35, and the results were compared to existing data collection routing protocols DSG–DGA, AEEDCO, AEEDCO-A, ALP, SEDG, and AEDG. In terms of network throughput, end-to-end delay, lifetime, path loss, and energy consumption, the results showed that ESEDG outperformed the baseline routing protocols.
Hypertension Diagnosis with Backpropagation Neural Networks for Sustainability in Public Health
Authors: Orozco Torres Jorge Antonio , Medina Santiago Alejandro , Villegas Izaguirre José Manuel , Amador García Monica , Delgado Hernández Alberto
Published: July 2022

This paper presents the development of a multilayer feed-forward neural network for the diagnosis of hypertension, based on a population-based study. For the development of this architecture, several physiological factors have been considered, which are vital to determining the risk of being hypertensive; a diagnostic system can offer a solution which is not easy to determine by conventional means. The results obtained demonstrate the sustainability of health conditions affecting humanity today as a consequence of the social environment in which we live, e.g., economics, stress, smoking, alcoholism, drug addiction, obesity, diabetes, physical inactivity, etc., which leads to hypertension. The results of the neural network-based diagnostic system show an effectiveness of 90%, thus generating a high expectation in diagnosing the risk of hypertension from the analyzed physiological data.
Blockchain for Modern Applications: A Survey
Authors: Krichen Moez , Ammi Meryem , Mihoub Alaeddine , Almutiq Mutiq
Published: July 2022

Blockchain is a modern technology that has revolutionized the way society interacts and trades. It could be defined as a chain of blocks that stores information with digital signatures in a distributed and decentralized network. This technique was first adopted for the creation of digital cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. However, research and industrial studies have recently focused on the opportunities that blockchain provides in various other application domains to take advantage of the main features of this technology, such as: decentralization, persistency, anonymity, and auditability. This paper reviews the use of blockchain in several interesting fields, namely: finance, healthcare, information systems, wireless networks, Internet of Things, smart grids, governmental services, and military/defense. In addition, our paper identifies the challenges to overcome, to guarantee better use of this technology.
Modeling Radio Wave Propagation for Wireless Sensor Networks in Vegetated Environments: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Barrios-Ulloa Alexis , Ariza-Colpas Paola , Sánchez-Moreno Hernando , Quintero-Linero Alejandra , De la Hoz-Franco Emiro
Published: July 2022

The use of wireless sensor networks (WSN) for monitoring variables in agricultural environments and natural forests has been increasing in recent years. However, the sizing of these systems is affected by the inaccuracy of the radio wave propagation models used, leading to possible increased costs and measurement errors. This systematic literature review (SLR) aims to identify propagation models widely used in WSN deployments in agricultural or naturally vegetated environments and their effectiveness in estimating signal losses. We also identified today’s wireless technologies most used in precision agriculture (PA) system implementations. In addition, the results of studies focused on the development of new propagation models for different environments are evaluated. Scientific and technical analysis is presented based on articles consulted in different specialized databases, which were selected according to different combinations of criteria. The results show that, in most of the application cases, vegetative models present high error values when estimating attenuation.
Influence Variables in Occupational Injuries among Men Teachers
Authors: Rey-Merchán María del Carmen , López-Arquillos Antonio
Published: July 2022

Background: Occupational accidents suffered by male teachers can be a source of injury to different parts of the body and can lead to absence from work. However, there are only a limited number of studies focused on this topic; the current research evaluates the influence of the main variables associated with occupational injuries among male teachers. Methods: Logistic regression based on the calculation of the odds ratio (OR) was used on a sample of 42,878 occupational accidents suffered by male teachers in the period 2003–2018. Results: Male teachers under 45 years of age with less than one year of experience obtained better results for most types of injury. In contrast, those older than 45 years and with more experience obtained worse results. Conclusions: No single variable was detected with the same protective or risk effect through the different parts of the body injured. Teachers’ safety training adapted to risk profiles and injuries could improve accident rates in the education sector.
Visual Communication in Shared Mobility Systems as an Opportunity for Recognition and Competitiveness in Smart Cities
Authors: Turoń Katarzyna , Kubik Andrzej , Ševčovič Martin , Tóth János , Lakatos András
Published: July 2022

Due to the intensive development of urbanization and digitization, the number of smart cities in the world is growing. Along with their exposure, more and more challenges are facing the service providers of the various types of systems offered in their area. These types of services include shared mobility systems that, as an alternative to transport by own vehicle, are becoming one of the leading promoted forms of mobility. Because of the prioritization of shared mobility solutions, more and more operators appear on the smart city markets, which is associated with many challenges related to the increased competition among service providers. One of the challenges is the appropriate visibility of the brand and vehicles in urban transport systems. This aspect, despite its high applicability, constitutes a research gap among world studies. Aiming to fill this gap, this article was dedicated to the issues of perception of visual communication by operators of shared mobility services. As part of the research, an expert study was conducted among representatives of shared mobility services operating in Poland. The expert survey was conducted with the Computer-Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) technique. The results of the research show that visual communication is not used quite correctly by operators. Although operators use single visual communication practices, overall consistency is lacking, which would add value to the brand. This article supports operators looking to expand their shared mobility services. What is more, it is also a response to the research gap regarding visual communication and its perception from the point of view of smart cities.
New Media, New Practices? A Study of the First Spanish Podcast Community and Its Pioneers
Authors: García-Marín David
Published: July 2022

About to celebrate its first two decades of life, podcasting is one of the fastest-growing mediums in recent years. This medium, promoted from the amateur sphere as a result of the arrival of Web 2.0, has become an increasingly professional practice thanks to the work of major production companies and platforms such as Spotify. In this context of increasing professionalization, this paper aims to investigate the origins of podcasting in Spain in order to analyze the decisive role that the first community of Spanish amateur podcasters played in its development. An ethnographic research study, focused on the first seven years of the medium in this country (2004–2010), was carried out. The study was based on interviews with the pioneers, a review of source documents, and participant observation. The difficulties and the main milestones related to the medium’s origin are analyzed. Likewise, the parallels between the beginning of this practice and the role assumed by radio amateurs at the beginning of radio in Spain a century ago are discussed. This parallel trajectory linking the origin of both media (radio and podcast) can be useful to envision a perspective on the possible developments of podcasting in the coming years.
The Assessment of Internal Indicators on The Balanced Scorecard Measures of Sustainability
Authors: Gazi Funda , Atan Tarık , Kılıç Mahmut
Published: July 2022

Background: Performance evaluation has become an essential tool for managers in the banking sector, which is undergoing frequent and rapid changes. It allows banks to maintain a high level of returns and reach their targets while staying competitive. In this context, sustainable performance management has emerged as essential for the banking sector. Indeed, the sustainable management of performance, while increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of organizations, also ensures sustainable measurement based on balanced scorecard practices. Purpose: This study aims to examine the assessment of internal indicators on the balanced scorecard of sustainability in the banking system in North Cyprus, which is one of the sustainable performance evaluation methods. Moreover, it aims to evaluate and reveal the effects of innovation performance, organizational culture, intrapreneurship, and the efficiency and effectiveness of the accounting information system on overall business performance in terms of the performance scorecard to achieve sustainable balanced scorecard systems. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study (BSC), which focuses on the banking industry in North Cyprus, was motivated by the recent and limited usage of a balanced scorecard. The questionnaire was used to gather data from 350 employees and managers of 21 banks in North Cyprus. Analyses of the collected data were conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM, AMOS 25). Findings: The findings of the research established that organizational culture, intrapreneurship, and accounting information system effectiveness have positive effects on a balanced scorecard and its sub-dimensions. Innovation performance does not affect the balanced scorecard and its sub-dimensions. Originality/Value: In identifying the advantages and contributions in BSC introduction and implementation, the study contributes to the current state of knowledge, enabling organizations which intend to use this tool to adopt it and develop it. This study takes organizations’ culture, innovation and intrapreneurship performance, and development on accounting and information systems into consideration in relation to the implementation process of BSC.
An Exploratory Study of Software Sustainability at Early Stages of Software Development
Authors: Noman Hira , Mahoto Naeem Ahmed , Bhatti Sania , Abosaq Hamad Ali , Al Reshan Mana Saleh , Shaikh Asadullah
Published: July 2022

Sustainability incorporation within the field of Software Engineering is an emerging research area. Sustainability, from an academic perspective, has been addressed to a large extent. However, when it comes to the software industry, the topic has not received much-needed attention. Software, being designed and developed in the industry, can benefit society at large, if sustainability is taken into account by the software professionals during the software design and development process. To develop a sustainable software application, knowledge and awareness about sustainability by professional software developers is one of the key elements. This study is an attempt to examine sustainability knowledge, importance, and support from the perspective of South Asian software professionals. Additionally, this study also proposes sustainability guidelines for certain software applications and also a catalog for the identification of sustainability requirements for different software applications. The queries such as ‘What does sustainability mean to a professional software developer?’, ‘How does the software industry identify sustainability requirements?’, ‘How do software developers incorporate the sustainability parameters within software during software development?’, and many other such queries are addressed in this study. To achieve this goal, a survey was carried out among 221 industry practitioners involved in software projects in various application domains such as banking, finance, and management applications. The results pinpoint that even though sustainability is deemed important by 91% of practitioners, still there is a lack of understanding regarding sustainability incorporation in software development. A total of 48% of professionals often misunderstand “Green software” as “sustainable software”. The technical aspect of sustainability is considered most important by professionals (67%) as well as companies (77%). One of the key findings of this study is that 92% of software practitioners are not able to identify sustainability requirements for software applications. The outcomes of the study may be regarded as an initial attempt towards how sustainability is comprehended in software by the South Asian software industry.
Heavy Metal Content and Pollution Assessment in Typical Check Dam Sediment in a Watershed of Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Meng Yongxia , Li Peng , Xiao Lie , Wang Rui , Yang Shutong , Han Jiangxue , Hu Bingze
Published: July 2022

To understand historical trends and assess the ecological risk associated with heavy metal pollution, the concentration of eight species of heavy metals (vanadium (V), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and arsenic (As)) in typical silt dam sediments on the Loess Plateau were analyzed. The radionuclide 137Cs was used to quantify rates of erosion, deposition, and heavy metal contamination in the soils of a watershed that supplies a check dam. The sediment record revealed three time periods distinguished by trends in erosion and pollutant accumulation (1960–1967, 1968–1981, and 1985–1991). Heavy metal concentrations were highest but exhibited significant fluctuation in the first two periods (1960–1967 and 1968–1981). From 1985 to 1991, heavy metal pollution showed a downward trend and tended to be stable. The potential risks of heavy metals in silt dam sediments were explored by applying the geo-accumulation index and the potential ecological risk index. The results indicated medium risk associated with Cu and As accumulation, especially in 1963, 1971, and 1986 when the assessed values increased significantly from previous levels. Agricultural practices and high rates of slope erosion may be responsible for the enrichment of As and Cu in soil and the accompanying increase in risk. Land use optimization and the careful use of fertilizers could be used to control or intercept heavy metal pollutants in dammed lands. The results provide the basis for evaluating the current status and ecological risk of heavy metal contamination in dam sediments and for predicting possible heavy metal pollution in the future.
Dynamic Rule Curves and Streamflow under Climate Change for Multipurpose Reservoir Operation Using Honey-Bee Mating Optimization
Authors: Songsaengrit Songphol , Kangrang Anongrit
Published: July 2022

Climate change in the watershed above the reservoir has a direct impact on the quantity of streamflow that enters the reservoir and the management of water resources. Developing effective reservoir rule curves helps reduce the risk of future failures of water resource management. The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of climate change on the volume of streamflow entering the Ubolratana Reservoir, Thailand during the years 2020–2049 with climate simulations from the CIMP5 model under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. SWAT models were used to forecast future reservoir streamflow quantities. Moreover, suitable reservoir rule curves using the Honey-Bee Mating Optimization (HBMO) were developed and the effectiveness of the new rule curves was assessed. According to the research findings, the average yearly streamflow in the future apparently grew from 32% in the base years (2011–2019) and 65% under the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios, respectively. It was discovered that the average monthly streamflow was higher in the rainy season than in the dry season. Both of the projected situations have a form compatible with the present rule curves in the section of the new reservoir rule curves generated with the HBMO. Furthermore, the newly constructed rule curves may allow the reservoir to keep more water during the rainy season, thereby assuring that there will be adequate water during the following dry season. Additionally, during the dry season, the reservoir was able to release more water that would be able to reduce the water shortage, indicating that it was able to effectively reduce the amount of water shortage and average overflow under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 situations.
Modeling and Analysis of Electric Vehicle User Behavior Based on Full Data Chain Driven
Authors: Wang Ruisheng , Xing Qiang , Chen Zhong , Zhang Ziqi , Liu Bo
Published: July 2022

The rapid development of electric vehicles (EVs) has posed challenges to power grids and transportation networks. Accurately capturing the usage patterns of EV users is a prerequisite for EVs’ interaction with electrified transportation networks. Thus, this paper proposes a full data chain (FDC) driven model to mine EVs’ comprehensive characteristics. By collecting the data of 150 private electric vehicles (PREVs), 100 commercial electric vehicles (CEVs), and 50 official electric vehicles (OEVs) in Chongqing, China, the driving characteristics are firstly mined by the adoption of origin-destination (OD) distribution and driving portrait. Moreover, the charging characteristics are extracted based on the state recognition for data chains. Then, vehicle usage characteristics of different types of users are comprehensively described based on the density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (DBSCAN). Finally, the results of EV user characteristics are analyzed, and the effectiveness of the proposed model is verified by regional charging load analysis and urban road traffic flow comparison. The findings provide a data source and user behavior model for the planning, operation, and control of power grids and transportation networks.
The Effect of Knowledge Management on the Sustainability of Technology-Driven Businesses in Emerging Markets: The Mediating Role of Social Media
Authors: Tajpour Mehdi , Hosseini Elahe , Mohammadi Maliheh , Bahman-Zangi Behrooz
Published: July 2022

Sustainability is a fundamental principle for human resource management worldwide. This study aimed to examine the effect of knowledge management components on the sustainability of technology-driven businesses mediated by social media in emerging markets. This descriptive-correlational study was conducted in April 2022. The statistical population comprised 537 businesses, and the sample size (estimated using Cochran’s formula) was 224 research and development employees. A 25-item questionnaire scored on a 5-point Likert scale was administered to collect data, which were analyzed in SmartPLS 3. The findings showed that for technology-driven businesses to be in a sustainable environment, knowledge management components must be applied in all parts of the company. The application of knowledge management creates value and a sustainable competitive advantage in a dynamic environment. Furthermore, effective participation in the organizational social network can activate knowledge management and create value. Thus, knowledge acquisition through social media optimizes learning and ideation, and for technology-driven companies that lack resources, this acquisition enables development and sustainability in a dynamic environment.
Hydrodynamic Limitations to Mangrove Seedling Retention in Subtropical Estuaries
Authors: Kibler Kelly M. , Pilato Christian , Walters Linda J. , Donnelly Melinda , Taye Jyotismita
Published: July 2022

Mangrove-forest sustainability hinges upon propagule recruitment and seedling retention. This study evaluates biophysical limitations to mangrove-seedling persistence by measuring anchoring force of two mangrove species (Rhizophora mangle L. and Avicennia germinans (L.) L.). Anchoring force was measured in 362 seedlings via lateral pull tests administered in mangrove forests of two subtropical estuaries and in laboratory-based experiments. Removal mechanism varied with seedling age: newly established seedlings failed due to root pull-out while seedlings older than 3 months failed by root breakage. The anchoring force of R. mangle seedlings was consistently and significantly greater than A. germinans (p = 0.002); however, force to remove A. germinans seedlings increased with growth at a faster rate (p < 0.001; A. germinans: 0.20–0.23 N/g biomass; R. mangle: 0.04–0.07 N/g biomass). Increasing density of surrounding vegetation had a positive effect (p = 0.04) on anchoring force of both species. Critical velocities at which seedlings become susceptible to instantaneous uprooting estimated from anchoring forces measured in the field were 1.20 m/s and 1.50 m/s, respectively, for R. mangle and A. germinans. As estimated critical velocities exceed typical flow magnitudes observed in field sites, removal of established seedlings likely occurs following erosion of sediments from the seedling base.
How Do Active Firms Implementing Corporate Environmental Responsibility Take Technological Approaches to Environmental Issues? A Resource-Allocation Perspective
Authors: Bae Jong-Wan , Kim Sang-Joon
Published: July 2022

In this study, we acknowledge that corporate environmental responsibility (CER) can be implemented in a strategic sense. Given that firms cope with their resource constraints to pursue competitive advantages, firms tend to consider CER activities as a cost they expend rather than a value they invest. This tendency determines the level of investments to develop specific technologies to deal with environmental issues. Accordingly, we conjecture that the level of CER activities (i.e., the extent to which firms engage in various environmental issues) is negatively related to environmental innovation (i.e., the extent to which firms develop environmentally-sound technologies). To test this counterintuitive idea, we sample 623 U.S. public firms between 1996 and 2010 and figure out the relationship between CER and environmental innovation. As a result, we find a trade-off between CER and environmental innovation. In addition, to elaborate the resource-enabling mechanism between CER and environmental innovation, we examine the moderation effects of slack resources (instantiated by current ratios and debt–equity ratio) and find that the moderators show a positive impact on the relationship between CER and environmental innovation. These results suggest that environmental innovation is a dedicated action firms can take for environmental issues and is not automatically derived from their prior CER activities.
Use of Similarity of Triangular Fuzzy Numbers and a Derivation Calculation Formula in Assessment of Mortise-Tenon Joints Applied in the Joinery Category of Regional Taiwan Skills Competitions
Authors: Tsai Hao-Chang , Lee An-Sheng , Lee Huang-Ning , Hooper H. H. (Buddy)
Published: July 2022

This study is intended to assess the types of joints applied in the Joinery Category of the Regional Taiwan Skills Competitions (hereafter referred to as the Regional Competitions, including Northern Taiwan, Central Taiwan and Southern Taiwan). The authors use a self-developed derivation calculation formula (∑i=1nw×hi) to examine the differences in the types of joints applied. Then a regression equation is adopted to estimate the distribution of weight values of the joint types to calculate the assessed values of the joint types likely to be used in the Regional Competitions of the 51st Taiwan Skills Competition. Subsequently, the similarity of the fuzzy number is employed to understand the tendency in the development of joint types from the 36th Regional Competition to the 50th Regional Competition. The outcome shows that 19 types of joints were applied and the assessed value of 2.3 of open bevel mortise-tenon joints was the highest, followed by the 2 of bevel inclined mortise-tenon joints and the 0.73 of sloped haunch mortise-tenon joints. Meanwhile, the application of similarity of triangular fuzzy numbers to examine the 19 types of mortise-tenon joints indicates that the area of the affiliation map of open bevel mortise-tenon joints is the largest. Compared to the other 18 types of mortise-tenon joints, the assessed value of level of similarity is the lowest. In other words, the assessed values acquired by using the similarity of triangular fuzzy numbers and by using the derivation calculation formula have the same tendency. Hence, it is suggested that when trainers/instructors determine training strategies, they should adopt open bevel mortise-tenon joints, bevel inclined mortise-tenon joints and sloped haunch mortise-tenon joints to be the assessment standards. At the same time, they can also use the affiliation map of similarity of triangular fuzzy numbers to evaluate the differences between various types of mortise-tenon joints to understand the tendency of joint type development. Thus, the teaching quality of trainers/instructors and the learning results of contestants can both be upgraded. Systematic approaches also have to be consolidated to strengthen the ability to assess vocational education and training (VET) in order to improve the learning effects and technical capacity of Joinery category contestants. It is hoped that the derivation calculation formula can be applied to evaluate the training of Joinery category contestants in regional competitions to improve the quality of VET.
Urban Heat Island Mitigation through Planned Simulation
Authors: Vásquez-Álvarez Paul Eduardo , Flores-Vázquez Carlos , Cobos-Torres Juan-Carlos , Cobos-Mora Sandra Lucía
Published: July 2022

The urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon is caused by the anthropic alteration of the natural environment by urban expansion, its impermeable surfaces, and anthropic activities. In addition, urban morphology can also contribute to the increase in temperature in cities. The UHI effect can be described as an urban climate that is generally characterized by higher temperatures in densely built-up areas compared to surrounding areas. This effect impacts the environmental stress of the city and directly affects the health and quality of life of its inhabitants. Therefore, it is necessary to allocate resources to understand the UHI mechanism in cities in order to propose appropriate mitigation measures that will reduce energy consumption and improve living conditions. In this context, this research was aimed at analyzing the behavior of urban heat islands by replacing asphalt with cool paving materials (concrete) in roadways. Through computer simulations, using the ENVI-met software, the thermal variations of urban heat islands were examined. The city of Cuenca (Ecuador) was selected as the study area. The day of the analysis was 22 January 2020, which was recorded as the warmest day of the year, registering an average temperature of 16 °C. The findings of this research evidenced that, by replacing asphalt pavements with concrete pavements in the analyzed zones, land surface temperature (LST) could be reduced by 8 °C and the global LST of the studied areas could be reduced by approximately 3 °C. Consequently, the mean air temperature of the study areas reflected a decrease of up to 0.83 °C.
Application of University Campus Noise Map Based on Noise Propagation Model: A Case in Guangxi University
Authors: Huang Xianfeng , Liu Jinyi , Meng Zhaolin
Published: July 2022

Considering the characteristics of a campus environment and the rules that govern outdoor sound propagation, this paper identifies traffic noise as the dominant noise source of the campus environment based on the measurement of the noise environment. A noise propagation model that is suitable for university campuses was developed and used it was to create a noise map of the ambient area of the teaching building on the campus of Guangxi University. This noise map was then utilized to analyze the noise environment. The results revealed that for a given teaching building, the noise disturbance on high-rise classrooms is more significant compared to the impact on low-rise classrooms. Attention should then be paid to noise control in the high-rise classroom of the building. By appropriately increasing the distance between the building and the main traffic road or by adopting a judicious soundscape design that considers the shape of the building, it is possible to effectively reduce the interference of noise during teaching activities in a building and improve the sound quality of the campus environment. The results of this study provide a theoretical framework for the governance of the campus acoustic environment.
Landscape Function Analysis: Responses to Bush Encroachment in a Semi-Arid Savanna in the Molopo Region, South Africa
Authors: Kellner Klaus , Fouché Jaco , Tongway David , Boneschans Ricart , van Coller Helga , van Staden Nanette
Published: July 2022

Various factors lead to increased woody species density, biomass and cover (so-called ‘bush encroachment’) that influence ecosystem functioning and services in semi-arid rangelands. Ultimately, bush encroachment has adverse effects on human livelihoods. An increased understanding of ecosystem functioning in bush-encroached rangelands could contribute to improved management, conservation and restoration. This study, therefore, aimed to determine landscape functioning of bush-encroached and controlled savanna rangelands in the Molopo region, South Africa, by using the landscape function analysis (LFA) monitoring procedure. Mixed models revealed no significant differences based on LFA indices between bush-thickened and bush-controlled sites due to drought conditions that prevailed while the survey was carried out. Stability, which revealed the largest LFA contributing factors, always had the highest numerical value for sites that were still bush-encroached. Soil analyses revealed that grass litter patches from aeroplane-controlled sites had the highest average nutrient levels. As expected, high percentages of carbon and calcium levels were found in bush-encroached shrub litter patches. Bush-encroached landscapes are fully functional areas, especially under drought conditions. Long-term research is required to determine the effects successful management has on ecosystem functioning, especially during periods of higher rainfall.
Penetration Behavior of the Footing of Jack-Up Vessel of OWTs in Thin Stiff over NC Clay
Authors: Xie Shen , Wang Xinggang , Zhou Mi , Wang Deyong , Peng Weiping
Published: July 2022

This study investigated the behavior of the spudcan foundation of jack-up vessels of offshore wind turbines during the undrained vertical penetration into thin stiff-over-normally consolidated clay. Large deformation finite element (LDFE) analyses were used to simulate the continuous spudcan penetration into the seabed surface. Detailed parametric analysis was performed to explore a range of normalized soil properties and layer geometry and roughness of the soil–spudcan interface. The results were validated against previously reported data. The LDFE results were consistent with those of centrifuge tests. The evolving soil-failure patterns revealed soil backflow and the trapping of stronger top-layer material beneath the spudcan. The plug shape was influenced by the top layer thickness, the strength gradient of the bottom layer, and the relative strength ratio, which also affected the penetration resistance of soils. In this study, an expression was derived to quantify the plug shape with the aim of providing a theoretical basis for the design of spudcan footings with penetration resistance suitable for thin stiff-over-soft clay.
The Relationship between ESG Scores and Firm-Specific Risk of Eurozone Banks
Authors: Izcan Doga , Bektas Eralp
Published: July 2022

This paper investigates the relationship between corporate social responsibility and the idiosyncratic risk of Eurozone banks. Idiosyncratic risk represents firm-specific risks for banks, and the Carhart four-factor model is used for 31 Eurozone banks from 2002 to 2019 to determine the idiosyncratic risk. Thomson Reuters ESG scores are used to determine the ESG scores of these banks during the same period, and the effects of the environmental, social, and governance dimensions are investigated separately. The quantile regression method reveals a relationship between ESG and idiosyncratic risk over different risk levels. A significant negative relationship has been found between the overall ESG scores and the idiosyncratic risk of banks for medium- to high-risk levels. The effect becomes stronger as the riskiness of the banks increases. Similar to the overall ESG score, the governance and environmental dimensions have a negative impact on banks with medium- to high-risk levels. No significant relationship could be identified between the social dimension and the idiosyncratic risk of banks.
Logical Analysis on the Strategy for a Sustainable Transition of the World to Green Energy—2050. Smart Cities and Villages Coupled to Renewable Energy Sources with Low Carbon Footprint
Authors: Chenic Alina Ștefania , Cretu Alin Ioan , Burlacu Adrian , Moroianu Nicolae , Vîrjan Daniela , Huru Dragos , Stanef-Puica Mihaela Roberta , Enachescu Vladimir
Published: July 2022

This paper brings, as an element of novelty and originality, a strategic feasibility study, in the form of a logical analysis related to the proposed objective, with particularization to the area of the EFTA plus the UK and Ireland. We tried to achieve an overall picture of a sustainable and prudent transition at the macroeconomic level, but also at the microeconomic and local levels, with specific values of ecological and energy-smart villages/towns. The convergent actions of the signatory states of the climate treaty COP-26/2021—Glasgow, UK are to improve the logistics and financing of the large-scale replacement of fossil fuels used in the economy and lives of human society. Various strategies have been discussed to address the energy mixes that could be used in the transition phase in stages and combined-cycle natural-gas plants, conditioned by the implementation of CCUS technology. The preliminary stage will focus on the provision and implementation of modern technologies for the production of electricity in photovoltaic and wind power. Starting with the 2030s, the industrialized production of blue and green hydrogen is expected; the first is expected to be obtained from the chemical synthesis of natural gas with the separation and storage of residual carbon from chemical reactions, and the second directly from ocean water through the phenomenon of H2O electrolysis. As a basic legislative element, the strategy aims to refine the idea of a carbon tax at the border or at the user, in order to discourage the use of fossil fuels.
Social Responsibility and SDG 8 during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Role of Chartered Accountants in Portugal
Authors: Borrego Ana Clara , Carreira Francisco Alegria , Pardal Pedro , Abreu Rute
Published: July 2022

The fragility of the Portuguese economy, the weight of sectors that were especially vulnerable to the crisis caused by the pandemic, and the small size of enterprises meant that their economic and financial structure was not capable of supporting the effects of the economic crisis, jeopardizing the achievement of the SDG 8. This research explores the perception of chartered accountants about their role in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Portugal, based on a literature review and on a questionnaire. The results show that 70% of professionals consider that their clients evaluated their work positively during the first wave of the pandemic. However, most chartered accountants did not charge their clients for their extra-work and expenses and 30% even decreased their monthly fees. Portuguese chartered accountants, confronted with the economic–financial problem caused by the pandemic, focused on saving most of their clients from collapse and safeguarding many jobs. This research highlights the public utility and social responsibility of chartered accountants’ work, in the pandemic context in Portugal, as well as their central role for the efficient application of Government economic policies to maintain economic growth and decent work (SDG 8).
Mapping the Relationships between Self-Directed Learning and Design Thinking in Pre-Service Science and Technology Teachers
Authors: Avsec Stanislav , Ferk Savec Vesna
Published: July 2022

Self-directed learning and design thinking were found to be promising pedagogies for supporting education and thus supporting sustainable development goals. While some researchers have posited that self-directed learning may support design thinking, empirical research examining the relationship between these two essential skills is lacking because their shared conceptual structure has not been articulated in detail, and because they have remained siloed in design practice. This study examines pre-service teachers’ self-regulation in relation to design thinking skills to advance a theoretical understanding of design science and to overcome challenges teachers face in adopting and implementing design thinking. For this study, 158 pre-service teachers were recruited. On the first level, the empirical data collected were subjected to structural equation modelling to find and confirm significant metacognitive perspectives in design thinking, while on the second level, an in-depth analysis was conducted to find moderating effects of pre-service teachers’ metacognitive experiences and teacher education in design thinking. We argue that awareness and interpersonal skills are crucial in creative design activity, and that embracing risk, tolerance to uncertainty, and underdeveloped supervising skills might be critical elements for advancing design thinking behaviour. The findings of this study have implications for effective science and technology teaching and the learning of design thinking in teacher education, and for educators and commercial course designers to adjust the implementation of design thinking.
Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and Greenhouse Gas Emissions of UAV Delivery Systems on Metropolitan Subway Tracks
Authors: Choi Bulim , Yeon Jeonghum , Min Jung Ung , Lee Kangdae
Published: July 2022

This study examines UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) delivery services using metropolitan subway tracks in South Korea. The aim of the study is to enhance the usefulness of UAV delivery services in urban areas, evaluating what kinds of UAVs are more environment friendly than freight trains, with regard to particulate matter emissions and global warming potential. Under evaluation conditions, freight train delivery was a significantly better alternative in terms of particulate matter emissions, regardless of the size and energy source of the UAVs. However, despite freight trains being a well-known eco-friendly mode of transportation, it can be seen from this study that small UAVs satisfied a few conditions that could potentially provide a good transportation alternative, with low global warming potential. This paper provides important insights into the comparison of UAVs and freight trains with regard to carbon and particulate matter emissions, highlighting the implications that, in some situations, UAVs can be a feasible alternative for policymakers who prepare policy measures of an activation plan for UAM (urban air mobility).
Determining Optimal Locations of Postal Access Points Based on Simulated Annealing
Authors: Mostarac Katarina , Mostarac Petar , Kavran Zvonko , Šarac Dragana
Published: July 2022

The development of a sustainable postal system depends on the sustainability of its postal network, especially the organization of the postal access points. Postal service providers around the world face great challenges due to changes in the service trends and in consumer behavior. In this paper, the authors argue the importance of the postal network and its significance in rural areas. Methodologies including advanced search algorithms such as brute force and simulated annealing are proposed for best determining the possible locations of postal access points with no or minimal decrease in service accessibility. To the best of our knowledge, these algorithms are scarcely used for determining postal service accessibility. The results show that the decline of the postal office could significantly affect service accessibility. An analysis of the numbers of access points and their impacts on the postal network is provided, as well as the scenario of an additional access point. This methodology could help postal service providers to better plan network organization and resources. For service users, the application of the methodology adds to better service accessibility that considers the distances traveled.
Evaluation of Effective Elastic Properties for Wood–Cement Composites: Experimental and Computational Investigations
Authors: Ndong Engone Jean Gérard , El Moumen Ahmed , Djelal Chafika , Imad Abdellatif , Kanit Toufik , Page Jonathan
Published: July 2022

In this work, wood–cement composites (WCC) based on poplar sawdust were developed and fabricated by the extrusion process. The volume fraction of wood particles in the mixes was varied from 23% to 46%. The mechanical properties of these WCC were characterized in compression to determine the maximum compressive strength and the Young’s modulus. In the second part, these Young’s modulus values were estimated in compression using a 3D numerical homogenization which takes into account the variability in wood particle lengths and the random distribution in the mixes. The obtained results show a good agreement between the experimental data and numerical calculations up to a 35% volume fraction. The model’s poor estimation for large volume fractions (over 35%) could be attributed to the experimental sample size, which is not representative for large volume fractions, the percolation of the wood particles into the mixes and the inhibition of the cement setting.