bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Guided Tutorial on Modelling Human Event-Related Potentials with Recurrent Neural Networks
Authors: O’Reilly Jamie A. , Wehrman Jordan , Sowman Paul F.
Published: November 2022

In cognitive neuroscience research, computational models of event-related potentials (ERP) can provide a means of developing explanatory hypotheses for the observed waveforms. However, researchers trained in cognitive neurosciences may face technical challenges in implementing these models. This paper provides a tutorial on developing recurrent neural network (RNN) models of ERP waveforms in order to facilitate broader use of computational models in ERP research. To exemplify the RNN model usage, the P3 component evoked by target and non-target visual events, measured at channel Pz, is examined. Input representations of experimental events and corresponding ERP labels are used to optimize the RNN in a supervised learning paradigm. Linking one input representation with multiple ERP waveform labels, then optimizing the RNN to minimize mean-squared-error loss, causes the RNN output to approximate the grand-average ERP waveform. Behavior of the RNN can then be evaluated as a model of the computational principles underlying ERP generation. Aside from fitting such a model, the current tutorial will also demonstrate how to classify hidden units of the RNN by their temporal responses and characterize them using principal component analysis. Statistical hypothesis testing can also be applied to these data. This paper focuses on presenting the modelling approach and subsequent analysis of model outputs in a how-to format, using publicly available data and shared code. While relatively less emphasis is placed on specific interpretations of P3 response generation, the results initiate some interesting discussion points.
Research on State Recognition Technology of Elevator Traction Machine Based on Modulation Feature Extraction
Authors: Li Dongyang , Yang Jianyi , Liu Yong
Published: November 2022

Vibration signal analysis of the traction machine is an important part of the current rotating machinery state recognition technology, and its feature extraction is the most critical step. In this study, the time-frequency characteristics of the vibration of the traction machine under different elevator running directions, running speeds and load weights are analyzed. The novel demodulation method based on time-frequency analysis and principal component analysis (DPCA) is used to extract the periodic modulated wave signal. In order to compare different influence of background noise and unknown frequency influence, the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and Short Time Fourier Transform (STFT) methods are used to extract the characteristics of the traction machine vibration signal, respectively. Under different load conditions, it is difficult to observe the obvious differences and similarities of the vibration signals of the traction machine by time-frequency method. However, the DPCA demodulation method provides a guarantee for the reliability and accuracy of the state identification of the traction machine.
Lightweight Semantic-Guided Neural Networks Based on Single Head Attention for Action Recognition
Authors: Kim Seon-Bin , Jung Chanhyuk , Kim Byeong-Il , Ko Byoung Chul
Published: November 2022

Skeleton-based action recognition can achieve a relatively high performance by transforming the human skeleton structure in an image into a graph and applying action recognition based on structural changes in the body. Among the many graph convolutional network (GCN) approaches used in skeleton-based action recognition, semantic-guided neural networks (SGNs) are fast action recognition algorithms that hierarchically learn spatial and temporal features by applying a GCN. However, because an SGN focuses on global feature learning rather than local feature learning owing to the structural characteristics, there is a limit to an action recognition in which the dependency between neighbouring nodes is important. To solve these problems and simultaneously achieve a real-time action recognition in low-end devices, in this study, a single head attention (SHA) that can overcome the limitations of an SGN is proposed, and a new SGN-SHA model that combines SHA with an SGN is presented. In experiments on various action recognition benchmark datasets, the proposed SGN-SHA model significantly reduced the computational complexity while exhibiting a performance similar to that of an existing SGN and other state-of-the-art methods.
Sensor Placement Optimization for Shape Sensing of Plates and Shells Using Genetic Algorithm and Inverse Finite Element Method
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Maryam , Kefal Adnan
Published: November 2022

This paper reports the first investigation of the inverse finite element method (iFEM) coupled with the genetic algorithm (GA) to optimize sensor placement models of plate/shell structures for their real-time and full-field deformation reconstruction. The primary goal was to reduce the number of sensors in the iFEM models while maintaining the high accuracy of the displacement results. Here, GA was combined with the four-node quadrilateral inverse-shell elements (iQS4) as the genes inherited through generations to define the optimum positions of a specified number of sensors. Initially, displacement monitoring of various plates with different boundary conditions under concentrated and distributed static/dynamic loads was conducted to investigate the performance of the coupled iFEM-GA method. One of these case studies was repeated for different initial populations and densities of sensors to evaluate their influence on the accuracy of the results. The results of the iFEM-GA algorithm indicate that an adequate number of individuals is essential to be assigned as the initial population during the optimization process to ensure diversity for the reproduction of the optimized sensor placement models and prevent the local optimum. In addition, practical optimization constraints were applied for each plate case study to demonstrate the realistic applicability of the implemented method by placing the available sensors at feasible sites. The iFEM-GA method’s capability in structural dynamics was also investigated by shape sensing the plate subjected to different dynamic loadings. Furthermore, a clamped stiffened plate and a curved shell were also considered to assess the applicability of the proposed method for the shape sensing of complex structures. Remarkably, the outcomes of the iFEM-GA approach with the reduced number of sensors agreed well with those of the full-sensor counterpart for all of the plate/shell case studies. Hence, this study reveals the superior performance of the iFEM-GA method as a viable sensor placement strategy for the accurate shape sensing of engineering structures with only a few sensors.
Combined Acoustic Emission and Digital Image Correlation for Early Detection and Measurement of Fatigue Cracks in Rails and Train Parts under Dynamic Loading
Authors: Machikhin Alexander , Poroykov Anton , Bardakov Vladimir , Marchenkov Artem , Zhgut Daria , Sharikova Milana , Barat Vera , Meleshko Natalia , Kren Alexander
Published: November 2022

Fatigue crack in rails and cyclic-loaded train parts is a contributory factor in multiple railroad accidents. We address the problem of crack detection and measurement at early stages, when total failure has not yet occurred. We propose to combine acoustic emission (AE) testing for prediction of crack growth with digital image correlation (DIC) for its accurate quantitative characterization. In this study, we imitated fatigue crack appearance and growth in samples of railway rail and two train parts by cyclic loading, and applied these two techniques for inspection. Experimental results clearly indicate the efficiency of AE in the early detection of fatigue cracks, and excellent DIC capabilities in terms of geometrical measurements. Combination of these techniques reveals a promising basis for real-time and non-destructive monitoring of rails and train parts.
Uptake of Cationic PAMAM-PLGA Nanoparticles by the Nasal Mucosa
Authors: Albarki Mohammed A. , Donovan Maureen D.
Published: November 2022

Nanoparticles provide promising advantages in advanced delivery systems for enhanced drug delivery and targeting. The use of a biodegradable polymer such as PLGA (poly lactic-co-glycolic acid) promotes improved nanoparticle safety and, to some extent, provides the ability to modify nanoparticle surface properties. This study compared the effect of altering the surface charge on the translocation of PLGA nanoparticles across excised nasal mucosal tissues. Nanoparticles (average diameter of 60–100 nm) loaded with Nile Red (lipophilic fluorescent dye) were fabricated using a nanoprecipitation method. The effects of nanoparticle surface charge were investigated by comparing the transfer of untreated nanoparticles (negatively charged) and positively charged PLGA nanoparticles, which were modified using PAMAM dendrimer (polyamidoamine, 5th generation). All nanoparticles were able to be transferred in measurable quantities into both nasal respiratory and olfactory mucosae within 30 min. The total nanoparticle uptake was less than 5% of the nanoparticle mass exposed to the tissue surface. The cationic nanoparticles showed a significantly lower transfer into the mucosal tissues where the amount of nanoparticles transferred was 1.8–4-fold lower compared to the untreated negatively charged nanoparticles. The modification of the nanoparticle surface charge can alter the nanoparticle interaction with the nasal epithelial surface, which can result in decreasing the nanoparticle transfer into the nasal mucosa.
Labour Rights for Live-In Care Workers: The Long and Bumpy Road Ahead
Authors: Hiessl Christina
Published: November 2022

Domestic work, as one of the most feminised occupations in existence, is also one of those least likely to offer a prospect of equal treatment with workers in other sectors. Notably, live-in domestic workers are regularly excluded from even the most fundamental entitlements such as that to an hourly minimum wage. The rise of an international industry organising live-in care work for the frail and disabled brings the questions of how to regulate this sector back to the table also and especially in the most affluent countries. Departing from a prominent recent court decision in Germany, the contribution explores how jurisdictions around the globe approach the key legal questions determining the labour rights of live-ins. On this basis, it offers a discussion of the way forward in a policy area which urgently requires an honest discussion of how to balance conflicting vital interest of different disadvantaged groups in a fair and realistic way.
Analysis of the Relevance of the Advocacy Coalition Framework to Analyze Public Policies in Non-Pluralist Countries
Authors: Sengchaleun Viengsamay , Hakim Hina , Kounnavong Sengchanh , Reinharz Daniel
Published: November 2022

The Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF) is a theoretical approach developed for the study of the emergence of public policies in pluralist countries. Little is known about the relevance of the framework for the study of policies in non-pluralist countries (NPCs). A review of the literature was conducted on the use of ACF in studies performed in NPCs. Nineteen documents were identified. They were based on studies conducted in China, Laos, and Vietnam. The results show that the ACF is a powerful theoretical approach for highlighting the dynamics of interactions between coalitions that exist in NPCs, as in pluralist countries, and for highlighting their specificity. ACF is a relevant tool for the study of the determinants of the emergence of public policies in NPCs.
Conflicting Knowledge Paradigms: Competence Discourse and Disciplinary Reality in Social Sciences Teaching
Authors: Luna Diego , Pineda-Alfonso José Antonio
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to offer an inside look at the coexistence of different ways of conceiving and organising the knowledge of social sciences in current schools. To this end, the methods of autoethnography and critical discourse analysis were used in a case study focused on the teaching experience of one of the authors. The system of categories constructed allowed us to empirically verify the existence of a conflict between two major epistemological paradigms, competency and disciplinary, in clear correspondence with a gap between innovative educational discourses and traditional school practices. In the case analysed, this conflict led to a curricular over-dimensioning, which aimed to expand the elements to be worked on by teachers and their students qualitatively and quantitatively. The causes of this phenomenon are related to neo-liberal pedagogical parameters and allowed us to conclude that we should not conceive of competency-based learning either as an educational change by itself or as a strategy that guarantees change.
A Dysfunctional Legal Framework for Failed Public–Private Partnership Projects: Accounting or Economics?
Authors: Alcaraz Carrillo de Albornoz Vicente , Molina Millán Juan , Lara Galera Antonio Lorenzo , Muñoz-Medina Belén
Published: November 2022

Public–private partnerships (PPP) are complex long-term arrangements used in public infrastructure, public services or public facilities projects. To ensure that PPPs transfer enough risk to the private sector, European directives first and member states’ national legal frameworks later have modified how these projects are treated in the event of early termination. This paper aims to analyze said changes to determine if they well serve the public interest. The analysis is done by mapping the different alternatives a granting authority has when confronted with a PPP early termination, as stated by the law. We illustrate our analysis with a case study: The Móstoles-Navalcarnero railway, a Spanish PPP project that came to early termination during the construction stage. For this project, we determine the options available to the granting authority with the old Spanish legal framework (in force at the time the project was awarded) and with the new Spanish legal framework.
Monitoring of the Training Load and Well-Being of Elite Rhythmic Gymnastics Athletes in 25 Weeks: A Comparison between Starters and Reserves
Authors: Fernandes Iohanna , Gomes João H. , Oliveira Levy de , Almeida Marcos , Claudino João G. , Resende Camila , Neto Dermival R. , Galán Mónica Hontoria , Oliveira Paulo Márcio P. , Aidar Felipe J. , Mendes Renata , Da Silva-Grigoletto Marzo E.
Published: November 2022

The objective of this study was to monitor the training loads (TL) and well-being of elite rhythmic gymnastics (RG) athletes, as well as compare these variables between starters and reserve gymnasts during 25 weeks of training. Ten athletes from the Brazilian national RG team (17.4 ± 1.1 y of age) were monitored during the general preparatory period (GPP), specific preparatory period (SPP), and pre-competitive period (PCP). The internal TL was quantified with the use of sessional ratings of perceived exertion (sRPE). We assessed well-being daily with a well-being scale. The TL, duration, monotony, and strain were calculated weekly. We found that the internal TL and session durations were 9242 ± 2511 AU and 2014 ± 450 min, respectively. The internal TL, strain, and monotony were greater in the PCP than in the GPP and SPP for starters. In the SPP, there were statistical differences in internal TL (p = 0.036) and strain (p = 0.027) between starters and reserves. In the PCP, there were also statistical differences between starters vs. reserves athletes regarding internal TL (p = 0.027) and strain (p = 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in well-being between the periods assessed. In conclusion, RG athletes display a higher TL magnitude during the PCP, whereas only reporting non-significant minor variations in well-being. In addition, there is a discrepancy in the TL between starters and reserves.
Hylotelephium maximum from Coastal Drift Lines Is a Promising Zn and Mn Accumulator with a High Tolerance against Biogenous Heavy Metals
Authors: Ievinsh Gederts , Osvalde Anita , Karlsons Andis , Andersone-Ozola Una
Published: November 2022

Heavy metal tolerance and accumulation potential are the two characteristics most important for plant use in phytoremediation technologies. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to characterize the tolerance of Hylotelephium maximum from coastal drift line vegetation against the biogenous heavy metals Cu, Zn, and Mn and its metal accumulation potential in controlled conditions. Plants were propagated vegetatively and cultivated in an automated greenhouse in a vegetative state (Experiment 1; Cu, Zn, and Mn) and in flowering-inducing conditions (Experiment 2; Mn gradient). In Experiment 1, total shoot biomass was negatively affected only by Mn at 1.0 g L−1, but root growth was significantly inhibited by all metals at this concentration. Plants accumulated 250 mg kg−1 Cu, 3200 mg kg−1 Zn, and >11,000 mg kg Mn−1 in their leaves. In Experiment 2, only new shoot growth was significantly suppressed at 0.5 g L−1 Mn. At the highest concentrations, shoot biomass progressively declined at the level of inhibition of flower and stem growth. Visual toxicity symptoms of Mn appeared 2 weeks after full treatment on leaves of 2.0 g L−1 treated plants as black dots along the main veins and spread over the leaf surface with time. The maximum Mn accumulation capacity was reached in leaves (15,000 mg kg−1), together with a high translocation factor and bioconcentration factor. The obtained results suggest that the particular accession of H. maximum has very good potential for practical phytoremediation purposes.
How to Prioritize the Attributes of Water Ecosystem Service for Water Security Management: Choice Experiments versus Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Arellanos Erick , Guzman Wagner , García Ligia
Published: November 2022

The various ecosystem services related to water form a complex structure that impacts on human well-being so it is necessary to know the relationships between their attributes to support decision making for water security. Our work investigates individual preferences for water ecosystem service attributes in the Tilacancha River Microbasin, in northern Peru, using two methods of a different nature. In that context, prioritization results using Choice Experiments and Analytic Hierarchy Process are compared for their abilities to represent purchase preferences and theoretical preferences, respectively. Both methods reveal that in a context of abundant water resources, the public has a higher preference for the attributes Quality Maintenance and Water Regulation, over Sediment Control and Water Yield, which were less valued. The differences allowed us to identify possible applications of the results useful for water security management. Additionally, we conclude that it is possible to combine the results of both methods to support decision making, and we highlight the specific cases in which it is appropriate to use the methods individually.
The Role of Farmland Titling in Urban Agricultural Resilience: Evidence from Metropolitan Guangzhou, China
Authors: Li Dan , Zhong Wenjing , Chen Yitao
Published: November 2022

Urban agriculture has been seen as an essential strategy for enhancing food security and urban resilience and is valued by many countries, but its development faces many challenges. Whether farmland system reform can improve the factor allocation of urban farmer households and then promote the resilience of urban agriculture has not received sufficient attention. Therefore, this article uses property rights theory to explain the logic that farmland titling as a formal institution affects the factor allocation of urban farmer households (UFHs). Furthermore, empirical analysis of whether farmland titling positively affects the UFHs’ willingness toward farmland, and capital allocation was performed based on household-level survey data from metropolitan Guangzhou, China. The implications of this research are as follows: emphasizing that the reform of farmland titling is vital for the farmland transaction market, strengthening talent cultivation, and increasing agricultural green input and investment, all of which are beneficial to promote the modernization and sustainability of urban agriculture, thus improving the resilience of urban regions.
Parenting Stress, Parent–Child Literacy Activities, and Pre-Schoolers’ Reading Interest: The Moderation Role of Child Number in Chinese Families
Authors: Yang Jia , Xie Wanlin , Lin Xunyi , Li Hui
Published: November 2022

China replaced the Two-Child Policy with the Three-Child Policy in 2021 to raise birth rates, but the potential effects of the increased number of children on family life and child development have not been empirically explored. This study examines the moderating role of child number in the relationships between parenting stress, parent–child literacy activities, and young children’s reading interest in the new Three-Child Policy context in China. A sample of 895 Chinese families was randomly recruited from a coastal city in southeastern China: one-child families (None-child = 359, Mage = 5.0, SD = 0.9), two-child families (Ntwo-child = 469, Mage = 5.1, SD = 0.9), and three-child and above families (Nthree-child and above = 67, Mage = 5.2, SD = 1.0). The participants completed the Parenting Stress Index-Short Form, the Parent-Child Literacy Activities Scale, and the Children’s Reading Interest Questionnaire. The results showed that (1) parents with more children had higher levels of parenting stress; (2) no significant differences existed in children’s reading interest between families with different numbers of children; (3) parent–child literacy activities mediated the relationship between parenting stress and children’s reading interest; (4) child number moderated the mediating effect of parent–child literacy activities in the relationship between parenting stress and children’s reading interest, even after adjusting for child age, gender, and family socioeconomic status (SES). Overall, this study demonstrated how the increased number of children would interact with the family system concerning early childhood literacy development.
Barriers to the Adoption of Reverse Logistics in the Construction Industry: A Combined ISM and MICMAC Approach
Authors: Pimentel Margarida , Arantes Amílcar , Cruz Carlos Oliveira
Published: November 2022

With growing environmental concerns, reverse logistics (RL) assumes a significant role in the sustainability of the construction industry to the extent that it can contribute to mitigating some of the negative environmental impacts related to its activity. However, despite the benefits that can be attributed to RL, its implementation level in the construction industry is still very low. This research determines the root barriers to adopting RL in construction (ARLC) using the case of the Portuguese construction market. The methodology involved focus groups and a combined Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) and Matrices d’Impacts cross-multiplication appliqúe a classmate (MICMAC) approach. The root barriers that have been identified by the application of the methodology to the ARLC are: lack of financial incentives to incorporate recycled materials, lack of knowledge about RL, lack of technical support, standard codes and regulations in favor of using recycled materials, lack of information sharing, cooperation and coordination among entities of the supply chain, current buildings have not been designed for deconstruction, and lack of construction and demolition waste (CDW) management and recycling infrastructures and markets for the materials resulting from CDW. The highest hierarchical level includes barrier B10 (lack of financial incentives to incorporate recycled materials into the construction); this barrier influences all the other barriers and, as such, it is considered the key barrier to the ARLC in Portugal. The research has also identified 17 different mitigation measures to tackle these barriers, with different natures: fiscal, regulatory, financial, etc.
Utilization of Knowledge Management as Business Resilience Strategy for Microentrepreneurs in Post-COVID-19 Economy
Authors: Zayed Nurul Mohammad , Edeh Friday Ogbu , Islam Khan Mohammad Anwarul , Nitsenko Vitalii , Polova Olena , Khaietska Olha
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 outbreak affected the smooth operations of microentrepreneurs across the globe, including those in the Nigerian hospitality industry. However, it was discovered that the majority of microentrepreneurs were unable to utilize knowledge management to improve the resilience capacity of their businesses. It was this evidence that this study investigated regarding the effect of knowledge management on the business resilience of microentrepreneurs in Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was used with a purposive sampling technique. This study found that knowledge management has a significant effect on the business resilience of microentrepreneurs. A sample size of 3018 was determined from the sample frame of 1520. This study concludes that knowledge management measured in terms of knowledge acquisition, knowledge storage, knowledge sharing and knowledge utilization has a significant effect on the business resilience of microentrepreneurs. One of the implications of this study is that microentrepreneurs should incorporate their experiences gathered during the COVID-19 era to strengthen the resilience of their businesses in the post-COVID-19 work economy.
Practicing Outdoor Physical Activity: Is It Really a Good Choice? Short- and Long-Term Health Effects of Exercising in a Polluted Environment
Authors: Tescione Alessia , Misiti Francesco , Digennaro Simone
Published: November 2022

Background: Air pollution is an environmental risk factor for mortality and the fifth largest risk factor for all causes of death. The practice of regular physical activity is strongly encouraged to achieve a healthy lifestyle. During a physical exercise session, the volume of inhaled pollutants increases. The present study aims to report the evidence about the interaction between polluted air, physical activity, and the interactive effects of these two variables on individuals’ health in the light of the significant changes occurring in the daily routine of individuals practicing sport and physical activities after the end of the pandemic. Methods: A mapping review was performed on electronic databases to summarize studies reporting the effects of pollutants on specific health outcomes. A further analysis investigated how physical habits and air quality changed following the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: The current literature suggests that air pollution alters both short- and long-term health outcomes. Nonetheless, exercising is a protective factor against the harmful effects of air pollution. Conclusions: It is necessary for those who train outdoors to evaluate the external environmental conditions. The change should be aimed at improving air quality by implementing stricter legislative guidelines on air pollution thresholds.
Parametric Study on Steel–Concrete Composite Beams Strengthened with Post-Tensioned CFRP Tendons
Authors: Elbelbisi Ahmed H. , El-Sisi Alaa A. , Hassan Hilal A. , Salim Hani A. , Shabaan Hesham F.
Published: November 2022

A sustainable environment can be achieved by strengthening the existing building to avoid new construction and by replacing the construction materials with long-lasting sustainable materials such as a fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). Using post-tensioned (PT) FRP systems has proven to be an effective technique in strengthening the structure and decreasing cracks and deformability. In this study, a 3-D finite element model was built to investigate the flexural behavior of composite beams strengthened with external PT FRP tendons. Limited research studied the use of FRP tendons to enhance the structural behavior of composite beams. This paper represents a comprehensive study of the effect of several parameters that control the design of the FRP tendons. Parameters such as PT level, tendon material, tendon length, degree of shear connection (DOSC), and tendon profile shape were considered under loading. The 3-D model’s correctness is validated using published experimental data. It was observed that of all FRP materials, carbon FRP is the best type for upgrading the beam strength, and it was recommended to use a 30 to 40% PT level. In addition, applying external PT over the full length of the beam increases the ultimate load capacity significantly. However, due to the difficulty of construction, it was recommended to use 90% of the beam span length since the difference in beam capacity does not exceed 5%. Finally, adding PT tendons with a trapezoidal and parabola profile to composite beams significantly increases the yield load and the beam capacity.
Environmental Accounting Information Disclosure Driving Factors: The Case of Listed Firms in China
Authors: Ji Maoli , Ji Yuguang , Dong Shulan
Published: November 2022

This study explores factors that drive environmental accounting information disclosure (EAID) among corporations in China. Using a sample of 200 A-shared listed firms, we apply a structural equation model (SEM) and multiple linear regressions to examine how, and to what extent, external pressure, corporate performance and corporate governance affects the EAID of corporations. The results show that external pressure and corporate performance can significantly and positively affect corporate EAID. Regarding external pressure, government regulations, media pressure and loans are the most important driving factors, whereas profitability and sales ability are the most important ones among corporate performance factors. However, we found that governance factors have no significant impact on EAID. This paper enriches research on environmental accounting information disclosure and provides important insights for Chinese regulators into effective ways of fostering disclosures of environmental accounting information and raising corporate awareness of CSR fulfillment to ensure sustainable development.
Understanding Incubated Startups’ Continuance Intention towards Entrepreneurial Incubation Platforms: Empirical Evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Liu Xinmin , Fan Liu
Published: November 2022

In recent years, despite the rapid growth in the number of entrepreneurial incubation platforms in China, many of them are experiencing the sustainability dilemma caused by the loss of incubated startups. However, there is a dearth of research that explores how to promote incubated startups’ continuance intention towards entrepreneurial incubation platforms. Addressing this gap, the present study develops a dedication–constraint model based on the dual model framework, investigating the distinct impacts of entrepreneurial support and relationship-specific investment on incubated startups’ continuance intention towards entrepreneurial incubation platforms. A sample of 534 incubated startups in China was employed to test the research model, and the structural equation modelling was adopted for data analysis. Empirical results indicate that the dedication-based mechanism and constraint-based mechanism simultaneously, yet differently, affect incubated startups’ continuance intention towards entrepreneurial incubation platforms. Specifically, in the dedication-based mechanism, social support and technical support are revealed as the antecedents to relationship satisfaction that significantly leads to benefit-based dependence. As for the constraint-based mechanism, setup activity is the only salient indicator to termination costs, which consequently has a positive effect on cost-based dependence. Incubated startups’ continuance intention towards entrepreneurial incubation platforms is influenced by both benefit-based dependence and cost-based dependence, ultimately.
Ethical Responsibility and Sustainability (ERS) Development in a Metaverse Business Model
Authors: Anshari Muhammad , Syafrudin Muhammad , Fitriyani Norma Latif , Razzaq Abdur
Published: November 2022

Businesses are starting to use the Metaverse to expand their service network and establish new value co-creation for customers. However, businesses may need to carefully assess the ethical implications of their data collection and utilisation procedures for business sustainability. This paper examines the ethical concerns surrounding the usage of the Metaverse by organisations to obtain a competitive edge. This research was based on an exploratory assessment of business ethics and a Metaverse business model. A structured literature review was selected as the study’s design to get a better understanding of the issue. This research provides preliminary insights into the Metaverse and its business ethics, suggesting that any business must have a transparent policy regarding its Metaverse applications to foster a culture of ethics. This research aims to promote a constructive discussion on the issue of ethics in the context of the Metaverse that arises when an organisation conducts a violation or misuses user data. This paper is useful for people in the fields of technology and public policy, such as academics, businesspeople, and policymakers.
Effect of Temperature and Wind Speed on Efficiency of Five Photovoltaic Module Technologies for Different Climatic Zones
Authors: Tahir Zia R. , Kanwal Ammara , Asim Muhammad , Bilal M. , Abdullah Muhammad , Saleem Sabeena , Mujtaba M. A. , Veza Ibham , Mousa Mohamed , Kalam M. A.
Published: November 2022

The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of temperature and wind speed on the performance of five photovoltaic (PV) module technologies for different climatic zones of Pakistan. The PV module technologies selected were mono-crystalline silicon (MC); poly-crystalline silicon (PC); heterogeneous intrinsic thin-film (TFH); copper–indium–allium–selenide (TFC); and thin-film amorphous silicon (TFA). The module temperature and actual efficiency were calculated using measured data for one year. The actual efficiency of MC, PC, TFH, TFC, and TFA decreases by 3.4, 3.1, 2.2, 3.7, and 2.7%, respectively, considering the effect of temperature only. The actual efficiency of MC, PC, TFH, TFC, and TFA increases by 9.7, 9.0, 6.5, 9.5, and 7.0% considering the effect of both temperature and wind speed. The TFH module is the most efficient (20.76%) and TFC is the least efficient (16.79%) among the five materials. Under the effect of temperature, the actual efficiency of TFH is the least affected while the efficiency of TFC is the most affected. The actual efficiency of MC is the most affected and that of TFH is the least affected under the combined effect of wind speed and temperature. The performance ratio of TFC is the most affected and that of TFH is the least affected under the effect of temperature and the combined effect of temperature and wind speed. The performance of PV technology, under real outdoor conditions, does not remain the same due to environmental stresses (solar irradiance, ambient temperature, and wind speed). This study plays an important role in quantifying the long-term behavior of PV modules in the field, hence identifying specific technology for the PV industry in suitable climatic conditions.
Factors of the Adoption of O2O Service Platforms: Evidence from Small Businesses in Korea
Authors: Lee Sangho , Yoon Cheolho
Published: November 2022

O2O service platforms, which combine online and offline channels to provide more convenient services, are drawing attention as a new way of commerce that can revitalize small businesses that are losing competitiveness and struggling due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. In this study, we investigated and empirically analyzed the factors affecting the adoption of O2O service platforms in small businesses. We developed a research model that combines the technology acceptance model (TAM), an individual-level theory of IT acceptance, and the technology-organization-environment (TOE) framework, an organizational-level theory of information systems adoption. Data from 279 valid questionnaires were collected from small business owners and analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results show that the technical characteristics of the TOE framework, namely, relative advantage, compatibility, and trialability, and small business owners’ characteristics, namely, innovativeness, risk-taking tendency, and IT knowledge, affect the adoption of O2O service platforms through perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. The environmental variables of the TOE framework, namely, government support, digital environment change, and competitive pressure, affect the adoption of O2O service platforms through subjective norms. We identify practical implications for the adoption of O2O service platforms by small businesses.
Travelers’ Perceived Value of Robot Services in the Airline Industry: Focusing on Demographic Characteristics
Authors: Hwang Jinsoo , Kim Heather Markham , Joo Kyuhyeon , Nawaz Muhammad , Moon Joonho
Published: November 2022

This study examined travelers’ perceived value for a service robot at an airport. The study explored the differences in perceived value, which included utilitarian value and hedonic value, based on the travelers’ demographic characteristics. In addition, we investigated the effect of the two subcategories of perceived value on intentions to use an airport. The study included 322 samples for the statistical analysis. The results of the analysis revealed significant differences in the perceived utilitarian value in regards to age, education, and marital status. A significant difference in perceived hedonic value was also found in relation to marital status. Lastly, the results of the regression revealed that utilitarian and hedonic value positively affected intentions to use an airport. This study presents theoretical contributions as the first examination of the perceived value of robot services at an airport, as well as offering practical suggestions for the airline industry.
Blockchain Technology Implementation in the Energy Sector: Comprehensive Literature Review and Mapping
Authors: Khezami Nadhira , Gharbi Nourcherif , Neji Bilel , Braiek Naceur Benhadj
Published: November 2022

Satisfying the world’s rapidly increasing demands in energy via the optimized management of available resources is becoming one of the most important research trends worldwide. When it comes to energy, it is very important to talk about decentralization, security, traceability and transparency. Thus, over the last few years, numerous research works have presented blockchain technology as the best novel business platform enabling a secure, transparent and tamper-proof energy management solution. In this paper, we conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) using the PRISMA framework of the different existing research studies related to the use of the blockchain technology in the energy sector, published between 2008 and 2021. We identified a total of 769 primary studies after intensive manual analysis and filtering, which we thoroughly assessed using various criteria to address six main research questions that covered the blockchain types, applications and platforms in the energy sector, the energy source types for which blockchain platforms are implemented, the emergent technologies that are combined to blockchain solutions, and the types of consensuses used in energy blockchains. Based on the collected survey data, we built a database to categorize the existing research works, identify research trends, and highlight knowledge gaps and potential areas for additional field study.
Parameter Estimation of Linear Stochastic Differential Equations with Sparse Observations
Authors: Han Yuecai , Yin Zhe , Zhang Dingwen
Published: November 2022

We consider parameter estimation for linear stochastic differential equations with independent experiments observed at infrequent and irregularly spaced follow-up times. The maximum likelihood method is used to obtain an asymptotically consistent estimator. A kernel-weighted score function is proposed for the parameter in drift terms. The strong consistency and the rate of convergence of the estimator are obtained. The numerical results show that the proposed estimator performs well with moderate sample sizes.
Strain Monitoring-Based Fatigue Assessment and Remaining Life Prediction of Stiff Hangers in Highway Arch Bridge
Authors: Lei Jiayan , Kong Qinghui , Wang Xinhong , Zhan Kaizhen
Published: November 2022

The fatigue problem of hangers is fatal for the safety of the whole bridge structure. The objective of this study is to present a strain monitoring-based method to assess the fatigue performance of stiff hangers in highway arch bridges and predict their remaining life. A vehicle–bridge interaction system was constructed to analyze the dynamic behavior in the area close to the key welding line where the hanger was connected to the deck slab. Then, the empirical mode decomposition (EMD) algorithm and rain-flow counting algorithm were used in signal preprocessing and statistical analysis of field monitoring data. Finally, the fatigue life was assessed according to the standards in the Chinese Code for the Design of Steel Structures, as well as the Eurocode 3 and AASHTO codes. Differences were found in the fatigue behavior of hangers, and the shortest hanger was shown to surfer more serious fatigue damage. The influence of vehicle volume growth and low-stress amplitude on the fatigue performance was also discussed.
CODE: A Moving-Window-Based Framework for Detecting Concept Drift in Software Defect Prediction
Authors: Kabir Md Alamgir , Begum Shahina , Ahmed Mobyen Uddin , Rehman Atiq Ur
Published: November 2022

Concept drift (CD) refers to data distributions that may vary after a minimum stable period. CD negatively influences models’ performance of software defect prediction (SDP) trained on past datasets when applied to the new datasets. Based on previous studies of SDP, it is confirmed that the accuracy of prediction models is negatively affected due to changes in data distributions. Moreover, cross-version (CV) defect data are naturally asymmetric due to the nature of their class imbalance. In this paper, a moving window-based concept-drift detection (CODE) framework is proposed to detect CD in chronologically asymmetric defective datasets and to investigate the feasibility of alleviating CD from the data. The proposed CODE framework consists of four steps, in which the first pre-processes the defect datasets and forms CV chronological data, the second constructs the CV defect models, the third calculates the test statistics, and the fourth provides a hypothesis-test-based CD detection method. In prior studies of SDP, it is observed that in an effort to make the data more symmetric, class-rebalancing techniques are utilized, and this improves the prediction performance of the models. The ability of the CODE framework is demonstrated by conducting experiments on 36 versions of 10 software projects. Some of the key findings are: (1) Up to 50% of the chronological-defect datasets are drift-prone while applying the most popular classifiers used from the SDP literature. (2) The class-rebalancing techniques had a positive impact on the prediction performance for CVDP by correctly classifying the CV defective modules and detected CD by up to 31% on the resampled datasets.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Low-Carbon City Competitiveness under the “Dual-Carbon” Target: A Cross-Sectional Comparison between Huzhou City and Neighboring Cities in China
Authors: Zeng Shouzhen , Chu Yi , Yang Yiling , Li Pengkun , Liu Huihong
Published: November 2022

Under the background of “dual-carbon” target construction, the low-carbon environmental protection and ecological construction of Huzhou city in China have received high attention. To scientifically measure the low-carbon construction effect of the city, this study constructs a reasonable comprehensive evaluation system of low-carbon city competitiveness from four aspects, including low-carbon economic foundation, low-carbon lifestyle, low-carbon environmental construction, and low-carbon technology development. An integrated weight model of attributes consisting of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and entropy weight method is then established, and on this basis, an integrated TOPSIS model is constructed to assess the development of low-carbon competitiveness in Huzhou City. A horizontal comparative analysis of five cities around Huzhou is also conducted, and the current level of low-carbon competitiveness of cities in the central region of the Yangtze River Delta is further explored. Finally, several relevant reference suggestions for Huzhou city are provided to build an ecological model city and a green low-carbon national model and help the government to accelerate the pace of building a low-carbon city in the whole region.
The Status of Pyrolysis Kinetics Studies by Thermal Analysis: Quality Is Not as Good as It Should and Can Readily Be
Authors: Muravyev Nikita V. , Vyazovkin Sergey
Published: November 2022

This paper is a literature survey that focuses on the present development of thermokinetic publications. It demonstrates that in recent years pyrolysis kinetics has turned into a major application of the thermokinetics. Analysis of the respective publications suggests that too often their quality leaves much to be desired because of the poor choices of the kinetic methods and experimental conditions. It is explained that the proper choices can be made by following the recommendations of the International Confederation for Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry (ICTAC). To help with improving the quality of the kinetic results, the ICTAC recommendations are condensed to a few easy to follow principles. These principles focus on selecting proper computational methods, collecting better experimental data, and efficiently reporting the results. The paramount computational principle is to avoid using the methods that evaluate the activation energy and other kinetic parameters from the data measured at a single heating rate. It is shown that the kinetic parameters evaluated by such methods can give rise to striking examples of failure when estimating the thermal stability at ambient temperature. Because of the vital importance of pyrolysis kinetics studies from an ecological and economical perspective, a substantial improvement of their quality is currently needed.