bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distributed Fixed-Time Secondary Control for MTDC Systems Using Event-Triggered Communication Scheme
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyue , Liu Xinghua , Wang Peng
Published: August 2023

Multi-terminal DC transmission (MTDC) systems have attracted much attention due to their significant advantages in long-distance and high-capacity transmission. To improve their reliability and operation performance, a distributed fixed-time secondary control of frequency restoration and active power sharing is proposed under event-triggered communication, which only depends on the states of each AC grid and its neighbors. By utilizing Lyapunov theory, we prove that the MTDC system with the fixed-time secondary control can be stable in a settling time, and the conditions of the settling time are established for fixed-time algorithms. In addition, we simulate a five-terminal MTDC system in Matlab/Simulink. Several cases of MTDC systems are exhibited to showcase how well the suggested controller works when dealing with load changes and attacks. The comparison of the number of event-triggered instants shows that the proposed control method can effectively reduce communication resources.
Adapting the ESSENZ Method to Assess the Criticality of Construction Materials: Case Study of Herne, Germany
Authors: Randebrock Inka , Marinova Sylvia , Bach Vanessa , Arendt Rosalie , Finkbeiner Matthias
Published: August 2023

The steady increase in the world’s population combined with the globally growing need for living space by each individual is leading to an ever-faster consumption of limited resources by the construction industry, particularly sand and gravel. While a consensus exists regarding the sand and gravel resource availability on a global level for long-term supply, it is important to note that local supply shortages may still occur. Thus, this study aims to identify critical aspects of both locally and globally traded construction materials by adapting the ESSENZ method, which evaluates the criticality of globally traded abiotic resources. For the specific case of the local availability of construction materials, a new indicator is introduced: The Surface Squared Driven Indicator (SSDI), which is adapted to the specific conditions of the German market. The modified ESSENZ method is applied in a case study of materials needed for maintaining the material stock of the city of Herne, Germany. The results indicate that raw materials for concrete production in Germany, such as aggregates, are expected to be sufficient in the long term, but silica sand for glass production is only guaranteed for a few decades. Concrete poses the highest supply risk due to its high material demand, with steel and concrete dominating the environmental impacts. Limitations include data availability and the exclusion of certain materials. The adapted ESSENZ method allows for the comparison of criticality results for materials traded globally and locally, offering valuable insights for decision-makers seeking to promote sustainable construction practices.
Quantitative Model Construction for Sustainable Security Patterns in Social–Ecological Links Using Remote Sensing and Machine Learning
Authors: Liu Lili , Chen Meng , Luo Pingping , Duan Weili , Hu Maochuan
Published: August 2023

With the global issues of extreme climate and urbanization, the ecological security patterns (ESPs) in the Qinling Mountains are facing prominent challenges. As a crucial ecological barrier in China, understanding the characteristics of ESPs in the Qinling Mountains is vital for achieving sustainable development. This study focuses on Yangxian and employs methods such as machine learning (ML), remote sensing (RS), geographic information systems (GISs), analytic hierarchy process and principal component analysis (AHP–PCA), and the minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) model to construct an ecological security network based on multi-factor ecological sensitivity (ES) and conduct quantitative spatial analysis. The results demonstrate that the AHP–PCA method based on ML overcomes the limitations of the single-weighting method. The ESPs of Yangxian were established, consisting of 21 main and secondary ecological sources with an area of 592.81 km2 (18.55%), 41 main and secondary ecological corridors with a length of 738.85 km, and 33 ecological nodes. A coupling relationship among three dimensions was observed: comprehensive ecological sensitivity, ESPs, and administrative districts (ADs). Huangjinxia Town (1.43 in C5) and Huayang Town (7.28 in C4) likely have significant areas of ecological vulnerability, while Machang Town and Maoping Town are important in the ESPs. ADs focus on protection and management. The second corridor indicated high-quality construction, necessitating the implementation of strict protection policies in the study area. The innovation lies in the utilization of quantitative analysis methods, such as ML and RS technologies, to construct an ecological spatial pattern planning model and propose a new perspective for the quantitative analysis of ecological space. This study provides a quantitative foundation for urban and rural ecological spatial planning in Yangxian and will help facilitate the sustainable development of ecological planning in the Qinling region.
Application of UAS with Remote Sensing Sensors for the Location of Marks in the Archaeological Site of the Europos, Greece
Authors: Kaimaris Dimitris , Tsokas Dimitris
Published: August 2023

The Archaic Acropolis of Europos (region of Central Macedonia, Greece) is an important archaeological site, which was inhabited since the 7th century BC up to the 4th century AD. In the lowland area, south of the acropolis and a short distance away, archaeologists speculate that the extensive ancient cemetery of the acropolis, which is a result of its long-term habitation, was located there. In an effort to locate marks that will support this view, WingtraOne GEN II, one of today’s leading Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, was used to collect RGB and multispectral images. After the production of the necessary digital surface models and orthophotomosaics, index maps related to the crops were created. The total of the products allowed the visual identification of 123 marks, which are probably attributed to hitherto unknown covered ancient tombs. In addition, marks of unknown covered ditches of long length were found in the plain area, and on the outskirts of the acropolis marks of its possible wall and the base of one of its towers.
UAV-WPT System Based on Novel Magnetic Structure and Model Predictive Control
Authors: Wang Qi , Li Xingcan , Yang Fei , Gao Tian
Published: August 2023

In this paper, a UAV-WPT based on a new orthogonal coupling structure is first designed. An offset weight method is proposed to optimize the design of the system resonance parameters to improve the power transmission efficiency in the offset state. The coupling mechanism’s coupling ability and anti-offset performance are experimented with using Ansys software simulation. The system adopts LCC-S topology and proposes a secondary side constant current control strategy based on the model prediction control to ensure constant current output in the case of coupling coefficient deviation. Finally, an experimental platform is designed for experiments. The results show that the system can quickly realize 3A constant current output under the change of load and coupling coefficient, and at the same time, improve the working efficiency of the system.
Aesthetic Enactment: Engagement with Art Evoking Traumatic Loss
Authors: Froggett Lynn , Bennett Jill
Published: August 2023

This article analyses audience responses to two creative works inspired by traumatic loss—the first, a performance presentation, recounting events from the author’s adolescence; the second, a short film about a suicide in the filmmaker’s family. Both were shown in 2017 as part of a mental health arts festival, attracting audiences with affinity for the lived experiences portrayed. Given the potential for such works to give rise to negative feelings and/or to retrigger trauma, the objective of this research was to understand firstly whether audiences could process the trauma conveyed in a contained and facilitative setting and, secondly, how the specific aesthetic modality of each work supported this processing. The psychosocial methodology adopted consisted of a group-based, image-led associative method—the visual matrix—which invites participants to express their sensory-affective and felt responses to a creativework. In the case of both works, the visual matrix gave rise to a distinctive form of aesthetic enactment, expressed through rhythm and image association. This imagistic and ‘rhythmic’ mode of engagement appeared to be key to the re-symbolisation of trauma for the audiences. The implication of this study is that the re-visiting of potentially distressing experiences in an aesthetically mediated, containing setting is potentially reparative in its effect.
Investigating the Role of Artificial Intelligence Technologies in the Construction Industry Using a Delphi-ANP-TOPSIS Hybrid MCDM Concept under a Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Wang Ke , Ying Ziyi , Goswami Shankha Shubhra , Yin Yongsheng , Zhao Yafei
Published: August 2023

The construction business is always changing, and with the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) technology it is undergoing substantial modifications in a variety of areas. The purpose of this research paper is to investigate the function of AI tools in the construction industry using a hybrid multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) framework based on the Delphi method, analytic network process (ANP), and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) under a fuzzy scenario. The ANP framework offers a systematic approach to quantifying the relative importance of AI technologies based on expert opinions gathered during the Delphi process, whereas the fuzzy TOPSIS methodology is used to rank and select the most appropriate AI technologies for the construction industry. The final results from the ANP revealed that the technological factors are the most crucial, followed by the environmental factors, which highly influence the AI environment. In addition, TOPSIS identified robotics and automation as the best AI alternative among the three options, followed by building information modeling (BIM), whereas computer vision was the least preferred among the list. The proposed hybrid MCDM framework enables a comprehensive evaluation and selection process that takes into account the interdependencies between AI technologies and uncertainties in decision-making.
Identifying the Role of Biostimulants in Turnip (Brassica rapa L.) Production Compared with Chemical Fertilization
Authors: Raza Qurat-Ul-Ain , Bashir Muhammad Amjad , Rehim Abdur , Geng Yucong , Raza Hafiz Muhammad Ali , Hussain Sajjad , Ahmad Ijaz , Wasif Muhammad
Published: August 2023

Chemical fertilizers play an integral role in advancing food production to combat the increasing food challenges and ensure food security. Unfortunately, the overuse of these fertilizers has negatively influenced the soil and the environment. Considering this aspect, two pot experiments were performed to evaluate the efficacy of biostimulants in vegetable production systems. The first experiment compared the effects of chemical fertilizers (CF) with glycine (GL), aspartic acid (AA), lysine (LY), and vitamin B complex (VB). The plant’s physiological and morphological attributes and yield were studied. The results confirmed that VB has the potential to improve the rate of transpiration (26%), total chlorophyll content (27%), root diameter (213%), and dry matter (289%) compared with CF. In the second experiment, the effects of chemical fertilizers (CF) were compared with Isabion® (I), 25% CF + GL + LY (B1), 25% CF + GL + AA (B2), and 25% CF + AA + LY (B3). Similar attributes were analyzed to identify the influence of the applied treatments on turnip production. The results demonstrated that B2 enhanced the rate of photosynthesis (963%), transpiration (254%), and stomatal conductance (76%). Moreover, B1 improved the plant’s fresh weight (6%) and moisture contents (4%) compared to CF. In conclusion, biostimulants (LY, VB, and B1) are capable of improving turnip performance and production compared to CF. Future studies must focus on the efficiency of biostimulants against the long-term application effects on soils, nutrient-use efficiency, and crop production. Furthermore, the mechanism of action needs to be addressed in the future.
Envisaging the Impact of Entrepreneurial Culture on Venture Creation among Undergraduate Students of Selected Universities in Nigeria
Authors: Dada Augustina Esitse , Adegbuyi Omotayo Adeniyi , Ogbari Mercy E. , Salau Odunayo Paul , Atolagbe Tolulope Morenike , Onayemi Oluwakemi Oluwafunmilayo , Oladotun Abimbola Oluwaseun
Published: August 2023

Entrepreneurship is critical to the development of modern complex societies, not just for their survival but also for their long-term viability. Knowing the importance of entrepreneurship to the development of an economy brought about the introduction of entrepreneurship education into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. However, the restricted way entrepreneurship education is usually taught and practised has not helped undergraduates to imbibe an entrepreneurial culture and create a venture while at university. To close these gaps, the current study envisaged the impact of entrepreneurial culture and venture creation among undergraduate students of selected public universities in the South West region of Nigeria. Specifically, the purposive sampling technique was adopted to select the participants from selected universities in the South West region of Nigeria that offers entrepreneurship as a degree programme. A total of 450 questionnaires were administered. A total of 396 copies of questionnaires were returned valid and confirmed as fit for analysis, representing an 88% response rate. The data collected were analysed using structural equation modelling. The findings from this study concluded that students who exhibit entrepreneurial attributes, values, and mindset are more likely to be entrepreneurs than students who do not. This study recommends that universities work harder to promote entrepreneurial culture by focusing entrepreneurship education more on practical application.
Simple Alkali-Modified Persimmon Peel–Montmorillonite Composite Hydrochar for Rapid and Efficient Removal of Methylene Blue
Authors: Chai Na , Gao Lihui , Li Shulei , Ma Zilong , Li Lingni , Hu Ming
Published: August 2023

Modified persimmon peel–montmorillonite composites (PMHC-KOH/NaHCO3) for efficient and rapid removal of methylene blue (MB) were synthesized using hydrothermal carbonization and simple alkali impregnation. The surface properties and material compositions of the hydrochars were determined with SEM, zeta potential, and XRD, and the adsorption mechanism of MB on two modified hydrochars was analyzed with FTIR, XPS, and DFT calculation. The results showed that modified hydrochars with a rough surface structure and rich oxygen-containing groups exhibited a strong affinity for MB, and the adsorption capacity of PMHC-NaHCO3 and PMHC-KOH for MB reached 121.28 mg/g and 278.41 mg/g, respectively, with PMHC-KOH achieving more rapid adsorption of MB, at a rate of 0.043 g/mg/min. After five adsorption/desorption cycles, the two modified hydrochars still maintained a high adsorption rate of MB (92.32%/98.43%). The excellent adsorption performance of the modified hydrochars was attributed to hydrogen bonding, π-π interaction, electrostatic attraction, and ion exchange. DFT calculations revealed that oxygen-containing groups of the modified hydrochars played an important role in the adsorption of MB and confirmed that electrostatic attraction, hydrogen bonding, and π-π interactions were the key forces for rapid and efficient adsorption of MB. The prepared adsorbents gave full play to the regenerative applicability of agricultural waste, the simple alkali impregnation method eliminated the need for the additional cost of pyrolysis and activation, and their application in MB adsorption realized the treatment of waste with waste.
Managers’ Interference with Employees’ Lifestyles While Working Remotely during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Cewińska Joanna , Striker Małgorzata
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this article is to identify what factors influence employees’ opinions on supervisors’ interference with their lifestyles in remote working conditions during COVID-19. Our sample included 1000 participants, both managers and non-managers. Outcomes variables included the following: managerial interference with the lifestyle of employees, acceptance of different lifestyles, and unequal treatment of employees in relation to their lifestyle. Explanatory variables related to employees’ characteristics included sex, age, education and seniority and the position in the company (managers/workers), size of the team of employees, size of the organization, characteristics of work (individual/teamwork), as well as the degree of formality in employees’ behaviors. Analysis was conducted using logistic regression in a multivariate analysis of individual (employee-side) and organizational determinants. Our research has shown that lifestyle acceptance, lifestyle interference when working remotely, and unequal treatment of employees based on lifestyle are determined as follows: the organization’s characteristics, the nature of the work, and the social characteristics of the employees. Our findings contribute to understanding how remote work is perceived in relation to employees’ lifestyles. These insights can help organizations develop effective policies and practices regarding, for example, health interventions to support and not unreasonably interfere with their privacy.
Human Capital and Non-Renewable Natural Resources in Latin America and the Caribbean: ‘Is It a Curse or a Blessing’?
Authors: Le Clech Néstor , Guevara-Pérez Juan Carlos , Urdaneta-Camacho R.
Published: August 2023

This study examines the role of non-renewable natural resources in the accumulation of human capital in a sample of eighteen Latin American and Caribbean countries from 1995 to 2018. We assess the influence of non-renewable resources through six distinct variables and employ panel data co-integration techniques (PMG-ARDL). Our findings reveal a positive long-run effect, whether measured by abundance or dependence indicators. Even in cases where negative short-run effects are observed, the positive impact is consistent in the long term. Furthermore, physical capital stock, institution quality, and a more open economy are the most important drivers of human capital accumulation in the region. Although the long-run effect of non-renewable natural resources on human capital was positive, the estimated elasticities account for a relatively low effect. Consequently, even in the absence of the ‘curse’ effect, we do not deem it appropriate to consider these results as a blessing.
A Model Assembly Approach of Planning Urban–Rural Transportation Network: A Case Study of Jiangxia District, Wuhan, China
Authors: Xu Hong , Zhao Jin , Yu Xincan , Mei Xiaoxia , Zhang Xinle , Yan Chuanjie
Published: August 2023

Planning transportation networks between urban and rural areas is of crucial importance for the integration of urban and rural development, for socio-economic connectivity, and for sustainable growth. The study offers a model assembly approach in order to logically plan an integrated urban–rural transportation network that may support the coordinated development of its living–production–ecological space. Within this approach, the ordinary least squares (OLS) linear regression analysis method is used to investigate the correlation between urban and rural areas of a transportation network and the influencing factors in the living–production–ecological space so as to objectively analyze their degree of influence. These factors are size of town, urban and rural settlements, life services, supporting transportation facilities, trunk layout, external transport links, cargo hubs, logistics and transportation, enterprise distribution, agricultural production, terrain, distribution of water systems, tourism resources, heritage preservation, and ecological protection. The analytic hierarchy method is used to assign weight to the urban and rural transportation network planning impact index system. As a result, a transportation network planning decision hierarchy model is implemented to identify suitable areas for urban and rural transportation network construction and to provide guidance and reference for planning. Jiangxia District, Wuhan, China is selected as the study area to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the model. The findings indicate that the influencing factors of urban and rural industrial and ecological space have a significant impact on the transportation network in the research area. Planning should prioritize optimizing the central region’s transportation network structure and enhancing traffic flow between urban and rural communities, which is effectively in line with the current reality. The suggested approach is helpful in establishing case-study-specific planning and development strategies of urban and rural integrated transportation networks in the age of big data, as well as in balancing these influencing factors in living, production, and ecological spaces when planning an integrated urban and rural transportation network.
The Impact of General Manager’s Responsible Leadership and Executive Compensation Incentive on Enterprise ESG Performance
Authors: Chen Xiaofang , Li Yilei , Hu Yu , Yu Guangyu
Published: August 2023

This paper takes 101 enterprises in high-tech industries as research samples to investigate the impact of a general manager’s responsible leadership on enterprise ESG performance. The results showed that (1) a general manager’s responsible leadership can promote enterprise ESG performance, and (2) organizational resilience has a mediating effect between general manager responsible leadership and enterprise ESG performance. These conclusions were still robust after a series of validity tests. Further analysis showed that a monetary compensation incentive for senior executives positively regulates the indirect effect of a general manager’s responsible leadership on enterprise ESG performance through organizational resilience; that is, when monetary incentive for senior executives is high, the positive impact of a general manager’s responsible leadership on enterprise ESG performance through organizational resilience is strong. However, the influence of executive equity-based compensation incentive on their relationship is not obvious. The conclusions of this study provide theoretical and practical enlightenment for improving enterprise ESG performance, enrich the research on the intermediary mechanism of organizational resilience on responsible leadership and enterprise ESG performance, and provide intervention and decision-making basis for enterprises, regulators, and other relevant departments. The limitations of this study pave the way for further research directions, incorporating equity-based compensation incentive on promoting responsible leadership to achieve high ESG performance, and allowing for a better evaluation assessment.
Bibliometric Analysis of Ambiguity Tolerance: Unearthing Its Role in Sustainable Language Education
Authors: Xue Yi , Yu Zhonggen
Published: August 2023

Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 post-pandemic era, ambiguity tolerance has been the subject of extensive research and scholarship. While ambiguity tolerance has long been a hot topic across multiple disciplines, scant attention has been given to its role in language education via bibliometric analysis. Two authors adopt an integrative study on ambiguity tolerance in sustainable language education to fill this void. Through a general review and visualization analysis, this study seeks to explore the various influential factors that are associated with ambiguity tolerance in language education. Author co-citation analysis (ACA) and the mapping knowledge domain (MKD) are the underlying theoretical frameworks for bibliographic visualization. VOSviewer and CitNetExplorer are two analytical software utilized to visualize bibliographic data. It is concluded that multilingualism, motivation, self-efficacy, and engagement are positively correlated with ambiguity tolerance and collectively contribute to improving language learning outcomes. Future research could further discuss ambiguity tolerance in the application of emerging technologies in the new decade.
From the Sea to Mosquito Control: The Potential of Halymenia dilatata Marine Alga as an Eco-Friendly Mosquitocidal Agent
Authors: Hussni Hasan Nadia Rebhi , Yogarajalakshmi Parthiban , Vasantha-Srinivasan Prabhakaran , Shehata Wael F. , Radhakrishnan Narayanaswamy , Jayakodi Santhoshkumar , Karthi Sengodan , Senthil-Nathan Sengottayan , Hamed Mansour Hossam Eldin , Ghazzawy Hesham S. , Bushara Meimona Abdelrhim , Abdou Ahmed Hassan
Published: August 2023

A marine-derived red alga, along with their active constituents, were actively screened for their biocontrol potential against major insect pests. The current study explored the larvicidal activity of crude methanolic extracts of the red alga Halymenia dilatata (Mx-Hd) against Aedes aegypti (Linn.), and their enzyme inhibition, repellent activity, and non-target toxicity was screened against non-target species. The toxicity of Mx-Hd to exposed larvae was dose-dependent, and it was significant at the maximum concentration of 100 ppm (parts per million) across the second, third, and fourth instars of Ae. aegypti. The LC50 and LC90 Mx-Hd concentrations for second-instar larvae were 37 and 93 ppm, respectively. Moreover, the level of major detoxifying enzymes was altered in response to the Mx-Hd treatment. The repellent activity of Mx-Hd showed maximum repellent protection at 100 ppm dosage for up to 210 min. The toxicity against non-target species showed that Mx-Hd was safe or less toxic at the prominent dosage (1000 ppm). The photomicrography results provided a prominent damage rate in fourth-instar midgut cells and tissues treated with Mx-Hd. Overall, the present study delivered an insect toxicological screening study of bioactive red alga extracts against a dengue mosquito vector, as well as a baseline for better commercialization of bioactive insecticides. Also, the bioeconomy of algal-based pesticides in managing mosquito larvae presents an exciting avenue for sustainable and eco-friendly pest control.
Hybrid Particle Swarm and Gravitational Search Algorithm-Based Optimal Fractional Order PID Control Scheme for Performance Enhancement of Offshore Wind Farms
Authors: Mohamed Nour A. , Hasanien Hany M. , Alkuhayli Abdulaziz , Akmaral Tlenshiyeva , Jurado Francisco , Badr Ahmed O.
Published: August 2023

This article aimed to introduce a novel application of a hybrid particle swarm optimizer and gravitational search algorithm (HPSOGSA) that can be used for optimal control of offshore wind farms’ voltage source converter connected to HVDC transmission lines. Specifically, the algorithm was used to design fractional-order proportional-integral-derivative (FOPID) controller parameters designed to minimize the system’s objective function based on an integral squared error. The proposed FOPID controller was applied to improve offshore wind farm performance under different transient conditions, and its results were compared with a PI controller that was designed using a genetic algorithm and grey wolf optimization algorithm. The fault ride-through capabilities of the proposed control strategy were also evaluated. The findings suggest that the HPSOGSA-based FOPID controller outperformed the other two methods, significantly enhancing offshore wind farm operations. The control strategy was thoroughly tested using MATLAB/Simulink under various operating scenarios.
Cluster Analysis of Freeway Tunnel Length Based on Naturalistic Driving Safety and Comfort
Authors: Ma Sen , Hu Jiangbi , Ma Ershun , Li Weicong , Wang Ronghua
Published: August 2023

The tunnel is an important component of freeway operation safety, and its classification method is the foundation of a refined management of operation safety. At present, the impact of different categories of tunnels on driver safety, comfort, and driving behavior under naturalistic driving conditions is not clear, and there is a lack of classification methods for tunnels of different lengths in their operation stages. This paper was based on the driving workload, which effectively expresses the safety and comfort of drivers. In this context, naturalistic driving experiments in 13 freeways and 98 tunnels with 36 participants were carried out. The DDTW+K-Means++ algorithm, which is suitable for drivers’ driving workload time series data, was used for a clustering analysis of the tunnels. According to the length of the tunnel, the operation-stage tunnels were divided into three categories: short tunnels (<450 m), general tunnels (450~4000 m), and long tunnels (>4000 m). The length of the tunnel had a positive correlation with the drivers’ driving workload, while there was a negative correlation with the vehicle running speed, and the range of changes in the drivers’ driving workload and operation safety risks in general tunnels and long tunnels was higher than that in short tunnels. Road and environmental conditions are important factors affecting the driving workload. The entrance area, the exit area of tunnels, and the middle area of long tunnels are high-risk sections in the affected area of the tunnel. These research results are of great significance for the operation safety management of freeway tunnels.
The Impact of Residential Cluster Layout on Building Energy Consumption and Carbon Emissions in Regions with Hot Summers and Cold Winters in China
Authors: Yan Junle , Zhang Hui , Liu Xiaoxin , Ning Ling , Hien Wong Nyuk
Published: August 2023

Since the early 2010s, building energy consumption in regions in China with hot summers and cold winters has experienced an average annual growth rate of 6.5%, while building carbon emissions demonstrated an average annual growth rate of 3.7%. This underscores the pressing need to reduce building energy consumption and carbon emissions. The layout of residential clusters plays a critical role in determining the effective shading coefficient, which directly impacts solar radiation gain and subsequently affects energy consumption and carbon emissions. To explore this correlation and optimize the layout configuration of residential clusters to achieve the objective of minimizing energy consumption and carbon emissions in buildings, our study employed ECOTECT 2011 software to assess the layout attributes of different residential clusters through an analysis of the effective shading coefficient. Furthermore, using VirVil-HTB2 17_04_21 software, we simulated the solar radiation, building energy consumption, and carbon emissions for different residential cluster layouts. To examine the interplay between solar radiation, energy consumption, and carbon emissions, SPSS 27 software was used. The findings revealed that different residential cluster configurations exhibit unique effective shading coefficients, substantially influencing the solar radiation received by buildings and, consequently, their thermal performance. Our research reveals that adopting a staggered layout can lead to a reduction in average operating energy consumption by up to 2.23% and cooling energy consumption by up to 7.17%, compared to an enclosed layout. Similarly, enclosed layouts can contribute to a decrease in heating energy consumption by up to 4.06%, in contrast to courtyard layouts. Additionally, scattered layouts can effectively reduce carbon emissions by up to 0.95% when compared to courtyard layouts.
Fuzzy Soft Sets and Decision Making in Ideal Nutrition
Authors: El-Atik Abdelfattah A. , Abu-Gdairi Radwan , Nasef Arafa A. , Jafari Saeid , Badr Mohammed
Published: August 2023

Issues in daily life, where making the best decisions is crucial, are frequently encountered. But, in the majority of these situations, the best course of action is uncertain. We must take into account a number of parameters in order to find the best possible solution to these difficulties. The best mathematical instrument for this is fuzzy soft set FSS theory in decision making. Nutrition is the process of supplying cells and organisms with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive and to sustain life. A healthy diet has the potential to prevent or mitigate numerous prevalent health issues. The purpose of this paper is to select a burning problem for the nutrition of students and successfully apply the FSS theory in decision making. We aim to prove that the approach to decision-making problems with imprecise data via FSSs is more accurate than other types of approaches, and we present a new approach to the FSS model and its applications in decision-making problems.
A Novel Probabilistic Approach Based on Trigonometric Function: Model, Theory with Practical Applications
Authors: Odhah Omalsad Hamood , Alshanbari Huda M. , Ahmad Zubair , Khan Faridoon , El-Bagoury Abd Al-Aziz Hosni
Published: August 2023

Proposing new families of probability models for data modeling in applied sectors is a prominent research topic. This paper also proposes a new method based on the trigonometric function to derive the updated form of the existing probability models. The proposed family is called the cotangent trigonometric-G family of distributions. Based on the cotangent trigonometric-G method, a new version of the Weibull model, namely, the cotangent trigonometric Weibull distribution, is studied. Certain mathematical properties of the cotangent trigonometric-G family are derived. The estimators of the cotangent trigonometric-G distributions are obtained via the maximum likelihood method. The Monte Carlo simulation study is conducted to assess the performances of the estimators. Finally, two applications from the health sector are considered to illustrate the cotangent trigonometric-G method. Based on seven evaluating criteria, it is observed that the cotangent trigonometric-G significantly improves the fitting power of the existing models.
Research on the Non-Linear Relationship between Information Disclosure and Subsequent Purchases: The Moderating Effect of Membership Level
Authors: Qin Chunming , Zuo Le
Published: August 2023

In order to provide better marketing services to customers, companies often want to obtain as much customer information as possible. However, for customers, as well as leading to better service, information disclosure may also put them at risk of information leakage, so customers may respond in two different ways to firms’ invitations to disclose information. This paper applies theories of social capital and communication boundary management to developing a framework for understanding the psychological mechanisms behind individuals’ responses to disclosure invitations and their subsequent purchase behavior. The results of this study show that under the combined effect of social capital and communication boundaries, subsequent purchases show an inverted-U-shaped relationship, initially increasing and then decreasing as the level of disclosure increases. Furthermore, because the social capital of high-level members and firms is higher than that of low-level members, it moderates the inverted-U-shaped relationship; that is, the higher the level of membership, the more moderate the inverted-U-shaped relationship.
Optimal Decisions in a Sea-Cargo Supply Chain with Two Competing Freight Forwarders Considering Altruistic Preference and Brand Investment
Authors: Ma Xiao-Ying , Sun Duo-Qing , Liu Shu-Xia , Li Yue-Ting , Ma Hui-Quan , Zhang Ling-Min , Li Xia
Published: August 2023

Maritime transportation is a crucial component of international cargo transport, offering several advantages, such as route flexibility, large capacity, and cost-effectiveness. The competition and collaboration among the node enterprises in the sea-cargo supply chain system (SCSCS) directly impact the overall structure and efficiency of the supply chain system, introducing complexity in analysis. This research focuses on a two-level SCSCS comprising one shipping company and two competing freight forwarders, considering their altruistic preferences manifested through contributing to the shipping company’s brand building. Employing a Stackelberg game model, this study examines the effects of the shipping company’s brand investment willingness and the freight forwarders’ altruistic preferences on the decision making and profits of all stakeholders. The findings reveal that a higher willingness of the shipping company to invest in its brand building leads to increased profits for all parties involved. However, while the altruistic behaviors of the freight forwarders can enhance the shipping company’s profits, their own profits may not necessarily see the same impact. Furthermore, moderate competition between the freight forwarders can enhance the profits for all members. This research identifies the circumstances in which the freight forwarders’ altruistic preferences can lead to increased profits for themselves, achieving both altruistic and self-interested outcomes.
Spatial Analysis of Tuberculosis Patient Flow in a Neglected Region of Northern Brazil
Authors: Mesquita Cristal Ribeiro , da Conceição Marília Lima , de Oliveira Rafael Aleixo Coelho , Conceição Emilyn Costa , Garcez Juliana Conceição Dias , Sousa Ianny Ferreira Raiol , Lima Luana Nepomuceno Gondim Costa , Lima Karla Valéria Batista , de Paula Souza e Guimarães Ricardo José
Published: August 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is still considered a priority due to its high incidence rate in Brazil. In this context, we aimed to evaluate the flow of care between the municipalities of patients diagnosed with TB through notification forms of the Information System for Diseases and Notifications (SINAN) in a neglected region of Northern Brazil, Ilha do Marajó, state of Para. For this, we performed a descriptive, retrospective study on data obtained from the National Register of Health Establishments and SINAN from 2013 to 2018. We used Pearson’s Chi-square and G Test with p-value < 0.05 for descriptive statistics and spatial analysis technique on flow network analysis. Of the 749 cases, 16.5% were notified in another municipality that was not the patient’s residence. Regarding diagnostic methods, a positive bacterioscopy was adopted for 56% of the patients; culture was not performed for 82% of cases. Histopathological examination was not performed in 90% of the individuals. Rapid molecular test (RMT) was performed in only six (5%) cases. The region needs greater attention focused on diagnostic tests, suggesting that the introduction of RMT and culture by Ogawa-Kudoh could improve the region’s health network to minimise patient displacement and thus avoid the increase in the transmission chain of TB.
Spectrum of Thrombotic Complications in Fatal Cases of COVID-19: Focus on Pulmonary Artery Thrombosis In Situ
Authors: Babkina Anastasiya S. , Yadgarov Mikhail Y. , Volkov Alexey V. , Kuzovlev Artem N. , Grechko Andrey V. , Golubev Arkady M.
Published: August 2023

COVID-19-related thrombosis affects the venous and arterial systems. Data from 156 autopsies of COVID-19 patients were retrospectively analyzed to investigate the pattern of thrombotic complications and factors associated with pulmonary artery thrombosis and thromboembolism. Thrombotic complications were observed in a significant proportion (n = 68, 44%), with pulmonary artery thrombosis the most frequently identified thrombotic event (42, 27%). Multivariate analysis revealed that the length of hospital stay (OR 1.1, p = 0.004), neutrophil infiltration in the alveolar spaces (OR 3.6, p = 0.002), and the absence of hyaline membranes (OR 0.1, p = 0.01) were associated with thrombotic complications. Neutrophil infiltration in the alveolar spaces (OR 8, p < 0.001) and the absence of hyaline membranes (OR 0.1, p = 0.003) were also independent predictors of pulmonary artery thrombosis. The association of pulmonary artery thrombosis with an absence of hyaline membranes suggests it occurs later in the course of COVID-19 infection. As neutrophil infiltration in the alveolar spaces may indicate bacterial infection, our studies suggest the consideration of bacterial infections in these critically ill patients.
Prevalence of Human Norovirus GII.4 Sydney 2012 [P31] between 2019 and 2021 among Young Children from Rural Communities in South Africa
Authors: Khumela Ronewa , Kabue Jean-Pierre , Moraes Marcia Terezinha Baroni de , Traore Afsatou Ndama , Potgieter Natasha
Published: August 2023

Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) accounts for considerable morbidity and mortality in the paediatric population worldwide, especially in low-income countries. Human norovirus (HNoV), particularly GII.4 strains, are important agents of AGE. This study aimed to detect and characterise HNoV in children with and without AGE. Between 2019 and 2021, 300 stool samples (200 AGE and 100 without AGE) were collected from children below 5 years of age referred to the healthcare facilities of the rural communities of Vhembe District, South Africa. After detection using real-time RT-PCR, HNoV positive samples were subjected to RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing. Partial nucleotide sequences (capsid/RdRp) were aligned using the Muscle tool, and phylogenetic analysis was performed using MEGA 11. The nucleotides’ percent identity among HNoV strains was compared using ClustalW software. A significant difference in HNoV prevalence between AGE children (37%; 74/200) and non-AGE (14%; 14/100) was confirmed (p < 0.0001). Genogroup II (GII) HNoV was predominant in AGE children (80%; 59/74), whereas most non-AGE children were infected by the GI norovirus genogroup (64%; 9/14). GII.4 Sydney 2012 [P31] strains were dominant (59%; 19/32) during the study period. A phylogenetic analysis revealed a close relationship between the HNoV strains identified in this study and those circulating worldwide; however, ClustalW showed less than 50% nucleotide similarity between strains from this study and those from previously reported norovirus studies in the same region. Our findings indicate significant changes over time in the circulation of HNoV strains, as well as the association between high HNoV prevalence and AGE symptoms within the study area. The monitoring of HuNoV epidemiology, along with stringent preventive measures to mitigate the viral spread and the burden of AGE, are warranted.
Vaccination and Trust in the National Health System among HIV+ Patients: An Italian Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Bert Fabrizio , Russotto Antonino , Pivi Alex , Mollero Benedetta , Voglino Gianluca , Orofino Giancarlo , Siliquini Roberta
Published: August 2023

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practises (KAP) of individuals living with HIV (PLWH) regarding vaccines and their trust in the Italian national health system (NHS). Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at Amedeo di Savoia Hospital in Turin, Italy, involving 160 HIV-positive patients. Descriptive statistics were utilised to analyse variables such as vaccination status and intention, perceived risk of infection, and disease severity. The infections were categorised into sexually transmitted diseases and other vaccine-preventable diseases. Results: Except for the perceived severity of infection, there were no significant differences in the percentages between the two infection groups for the variables examined. Concerning patients’ perception of the Italian NHS, a high percentage of the sample believed in the information provided by healthcare workers (HCWs) (95.6%) and considered HCWs up-to-date on vaccines (93.1%). However, a considerable proportion expressed concerns about insufficient information on vaccine risks from HCWs (33.3%), perceived judgement by HCWs for vaccine refusal (40.3%), and suspected financial interests of HCWs in vaccination (19.5%). Conclusions: Some HIV+ patients may hesitate to be vaccinated or hold misconceptions about the severity of certain infectious diseases. Additionally, there are concerns about trust in the Italian NHS and communication by HCWs.
Temporal Changes in Water Quality with Increasing Ambient Temperatures Affect the Distribution and Relative Abundance of 10 Species of Balitorid Fishes in Small Streams of Eastern Thailand
Authors: Tongnunui Sampan , Beamish F. W. H. , Sooksawat Treerat , Wattanakornsiri Amnuay , Chotwiwatthanakun Charoonroj , Supiwong Weerayuth , Intacharoen Prasarn , Sudtongkong Chanyut
Published: August 2023

Stream degradation increases with high anthropogenic activity and climate variability, while declines occur in biodiversity. However, few studies have been undertaken on tropical waterways, a major impediment to biodiversity conservation. The present study was conducted on 95 relatively pristine small streams in Eastern Thailand with 10 reasonably uncommon species of balitorid fishes. Measurements were made of 21 physical and chemical factors and the substrate particle size. Stepwise regression identified the direct importance of substrate particle size and nitrate on the species’ richness of balitorids, whereas its abundance was negatively related with iron concentrations. A Canonical Correspondence Analysis identified three fish groups: the 1st group was negatively correlated with ammonia and positively correlated with dissolved silica, the 2nd group was positively correlated with substrate particle size and negatively correlated with stream ambient temperature and ammonia concentration, and the 3rd group was negatively correlated with low dissolved silica, respectively. The results of this study may indicate the vulnerability of balitorids under climate warming and anthropogenic pressure that alter the water physicochemical factors and river degradation including the substrate type. Thus, a conservation framework should be provided regarding the limits for water temperature, ammonia, and iron in Thailand’s Water Quality Criteria to better protect its freshwater ecosystem. Balitorid is a potential bioindicator for evaluating the river temperature effect in combination with ammonia nutrient stressors as long as the way-of-life habits of the species are taken into account.