bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semi-Autonomous Learning Algorithm for Remote Image Object Detection Based on Aggregation Area Instance Refinement
Authors: Cheng Bei , Li Zhengzhou , Li Hui , Ding Zhiquan , Qin Tianqi
Published: December 2021

Semi-autonomous learning for object detection has attracted more and more attention in recent years, which usually tends to find only one object instance with the highest score in each image. However, this strategy usually highlights the most representative part of the object instead of the whole object, which may lead to the loss of a lot of important information. To solve this problem, a novel end-to-end aggregate-guided semi-autonomous learning residual network is proposed to perform object detection. Firstly, a progressive modified residual network (MRN) is applied to the backbone network to make the detector more sensitive to the boundary features of the object. Then, an aggregate-based region-merging strategy (ARMS) is designed to select high-quality instances by selecting aggregation areas and merging these regions. The ARMS selects the aggregation areas that are highly related to the object through association coefficient, and then evaluates the aggregation areas through a similarity coefficient and fuses them to obtain high-quality object instance areas. Finally, a regression-locating branch is further developed to refine the location of the object, which can be optimized jointly with regional classification. Extensive experiments demonstrate that the proposed method is superior to state-of-the-art methods.
HCNET: A Point Cloud Object Detection Network Based on Height and Channel Attention
Authors: Zhang Jing , Wang Jiajun , Xu Da , Li Yunsong
Published: December 2021

The use of LiDAR point clouds for accurate three-dimensional perception is crucial for realizing high-level autonomous driving systems. Upon considering the drawbacks of the current point cloud object-detection algorithms, this paper proposes HCNet, an algorithm that combines an attention mechanism with adaptive adjustment, starting from feature fusion and overcoming the sparse and uneven distribution of point clouds. Inspired by the basic idea of an attention mechanism, a feature-fusion structure HC module with height attention and channel attention, weighted in parallel, is proposed to perform feature-fusion on multiple pseudo images. The use of several weighting mechanisms enhances the ability of feature-information expression. Additionally, we designed an adaptively adjusted detection head that also overcomes the sparsity of the point cloud from the perspective of original information fusion. It reduces the interference caused by the uneven distribution of the point cloud from the perspective of adaptive adjustment. The results show that our HCNet has better accuracy than other one-stage-network or even two-stage-network RCNNs under some evaluation detection metrics. Additionally, it has a detection rate of 30FPS. Especially for hard samples, the algorithm in this paper has better detection performance than many existing algorithms.
A Remote-Sensing-Based Alteration Zonation Model of the Duolong Porphyry Copper Ore District, Tibet
Authors: Yao Fojun , Xu Xingwang , Yang Jianmin , Geng Xinxia
Published: December 2021

Remote sensing (RS) of alteration zones and anomalies can provide information that is useful for geological prospecting and exploration. RS is an effective method for porphyry copper mineral exploration and prospecting prediction. More specifically, the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection radiometer (ASTER) data, which include 14 spectral channels from visible light to thermal infrared, are useful in such cases. This study uses visible-shortwave infrared and thermal infrared ASTER data together with surface material spectra from the Duolong porphyry copper ore district to construct an RS-based alteration zonation model of the deposit. In this study, an RS alteration zoning model is established based on ground-spectral alteration zoning results. The methods include PCA (Principal Component Analysis), Ratio, and Slope methods. The information obtained by each method is different. RS-based alteration zonation is developed based on the intersection of maps, resultant from the different methods for extracting information related to different minerals. The alteration zonation information extracted from ASTER RS data is consistent with geological observations. Using information from the RS-based model, we mapped the alteration minerals and zones of the Duolong ore district, thereby identifying prospecting target areas of the deposit.
QDC-2D: A Semi-Automatic Tool for 2D Analysis of Discontinuities for Rock Mass Characterization
Authors: Loiotine Lidia , Wolff Charlotte , Wyser Emmanuel , Andriani Gioacchino Francesco , Derron Marc-Henri , Jaboyedoff Michel , Parise Mario
Published: December 2021

Quantitative characterization of discontinuities is fundamental to define the mechanical behavior of discontinuous rock masses. Several techniques for the semi-automatic and automatic extraction of discontinuities and their properties from raw or processed point clouds have been introduced in the literature to overcome the limits of conventional field surveys and improve data accuracy. However, most of these techniques do not allow characterizing flat or subvertical outcrops because planar surfaces are difficult to detect within point clouds in these circumstances, with the drawback of undersampling the data and providing inappropriate results. In this case, 2D analysis on the fracture traces are more appropriate. Nevertheless, to our knowledge, few methods to perform quantitative analyses on discontinuities from orthorectified photos are publicly available and do not provide a complete characterization. We implemented scanline and window sampling methods in a digital environment to characterize rock masses affected by discontinuities perpendicular to the bedding from trace maps, thus exploiting the potentiality of remote sensing techniques for subvertical and low-relief outcrops. The routine, named QDC-2D (Quantitative Discontinuity Characterization, 2D) was compiled in MATLAB by testing a synthetic dataset and a real case study, from which a high-resolution orthophoto was obtained by means of Structure from Motion technique. Starting from a trace map, the routine semi-automatically classifies the discontinuity sets and calculates their mean spacing, frequency, trace length, and persistence. The fracture network is characterized by means of trace length, intensity, and density estimators. The block volume and shape are also estimated by adding information on the third dimension. The results of the 2D analysis agree with the input used to produce the synthetic dataset and with the data collected in the field by means of conventional geostructural and geomechanical techniques, ensuring the procedure’s reliability. The outcomes of the analysis were implemented in a Discrete Fracture Network model to evaluate their applicability for geomechanical modeling.
Adaptive Grasping of Moving Objects through Tactile Sensing
Authors: Lynch Patrick , Cullinan Michael F. , McGinn Conor
Published: December 2021

A robot’s ability to grasp moving objects depends on the availability of real-time sensor data in both the far-field and near-field of the gripper. This research investigates the potential contribution of tactile sensing to a task of grasping an object in motion. It was hypothesised that combining tactile sensor data with a reactive grasping strategy could improve its robustness to prediction errors, leading to a better, more adaptive performance. Using a two-finger gripper, we evaluated the performance of two algorithms to grasp a ball rolling on a horizontal plane at a range of speeds and gripper contact points. The first approach involved an adaptive grasping strategy initiated by tactile sensors in the fingers. The second strategy initiated the grasp based on a prediction of the position of the object relative to the gripper, and provided a proxy to a vision-based object tracking system. It was found that the integration of tactile sensor feedback resulted in a higher observed grasp robustness, especially when the gripper–ball contact point was displaced from the centre of the gripper. These findings demonstrate the performance gains that can be attained by incorporating near-field sensor data into the grasp strategy and motivate further research on how this strategy might be expanded for use in different manipulator designs and in more complex grasp scenarios.
Assessing Plasmonic Nanoprobes in Electromagnetic Field Enhancement for SERS Detection of Biomarkers
Authors: Cheng Han-Wen , Xue Shu-Yan , Li Jing , Gordon Justine S. , Wang Shan , Filippone Nina R. , Ngo Quang Minh , Zhong Chuan-Jian
Published: December 2021

The exploration of the plasmonic field enhancement of nanoprobes consisting of gold and magnetic core@gold shell nanoparticles has found increasing application for the development of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)-based biosensors. The understanding of factors controlling the electromagnetic field enhancement, as a result of the plasmonic field enhancement of the nanoprobes in SERS biosensing applications, is critical for the design and preparation of the optimal nanoprobes. This report describes findings from theoretical calculations of the electromagnetic field intensity of dimer models of gold and magnetic core@gold shell nanoparticles in immunoassay SERS detection of biomarkers. The electromagnetic field intensities for a series of dimeric nanoprobes with antibody–antigen–antibody binding defined interparticle distances were examined in terms of nanoparticle sizes, core–shell sizes, and interparticle spacing. The results reveal that the electromagnetic field enhancement not only depended on the nanoparticle size and the relative core size and shell thicknesses of the magnetic core@shell nanoparticles but also strongly on the interparticle spacing. Some of the dependencies are also compared with experimental data from SERS detection of selected cancer biomarkers, showing good agreement. The findings have implications for the design and optimization of functional nanoprobes for SERS-based biosensors.
Perioperative Sensor and Algorithm Programming in Patients with Implanted ICDs and Pacemakers for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Niedermeier Alexander , Vitali-Serdoz Laura , Fischlein Theodor , Kirste Wolfgang , Buia Veronica , Walaschek Janusch , Rittger Harald , Bastian Dirk
Published: December 2021

Background: ICDs and pacemakers for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) are complex devices with different sensors and automatic algorithms implanted in patients with advanced cardiac diseases. Data on the perioperative management and outcome of CRT carriers undergoing surgery unrelated to the device are scarce. Methods: Data from 198 CRT device carriers (100 with active rate responsive sensor) were evaluated regarding perioperative adverse (device-related) events (A(D)E) and lead parameter changes. Results: Thirty-nine adverse observations were documented in 180 patients during preoperative interrogation, which were most often related to the left-ventricular lead and requiring intervention/reprogramming in 22 cases (12%). Anesthesia-related events occurred in 69 patients. There was no ADE for non-cardiac surgery and in pacemaker-dependent patients not programmed to an asynchronous pacing mode. Post-operative device interrogation showed significant lead parameter changes in 64/179 patients (36%) requiring reprogramming in 29 cases (16%). Conclusion: The left-ventricular pacing lead represents the most vulnerable system component. Comprehensive pre and post-interventional device interrogation is mandatory to ensure proper system function. The type of ICD function suspension has no impact on each patient’s outcome. Precautionary activity sensor deactivation is not required for non-cardiac interventions. Routine prophylactic device reprogramming to asynchronous pacing appears inessential. Most of the CRT pacemakers do not require surgery-related reprogramming.
Assessment of Sensitivity and Profitability of an Intravaginal Sensor for Remote Calving Prediction in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Crociati Martina , Sylla Lakamy , Stradaioli Giuseppe , Monaci Maurizio , Zecconi Alfonso
Published: December 2021

One critical point of dairy farm management is calving and neonatal first care. Timely calving assistance is associated with the reduction of calf mortality and postpartum uterine disease, and with improved fertility in dairy cattle. This study aimed to evaluate the performance and profitability of an intravaginal sensor for the prediction of stage II of labor in dairy farms, thus allowing proper calving assistance. Seventy-three late-gestating Italian Holstein cows were submitted to the insertion of an intravaginal device, equipped with light and temperature sensors, connected with a Central Unit for the commutation of a radio-signal into a cell phone alert. The remote calving alarm correctly identified the beginning of the expulsive phase of labor in 86.3% of the monitored cows. The mean interval from alarm to complete expulsion of the fetus was 71.56 ± 52.98 min, with a greater range in cows with dystocia (p = 0.012). The sensor worked correctly in both cold and warm weather conditions, and during day- or night-time. The intravaginal probe was well tolerated, as any cow showed lesions to the vaginal mucosa after calving. Using sex-sorted semen in heifers and beef bull semen in cows at their last lactation, the economic estimation performed through PrecisionTree™ software led to an income improvement of 119 € and 123 €/monitored delivery in primiparous and pluriparous cows, respectively. Remote calving alarm devices are key components of “precision farming” management and proven to improve animal welfare, to reduce calf losses and to increase farm incomes.
A High-Order EMSIW MIMO Antenna for Space-Constrained 5G Smartphone
Authors: Ali Sayyed A. , Wajid Mohd , Usman Mohammed , Alam Muhammad S.
Published: December 2021

This paper proposes a high-order MIMO antenna operating at 3.5 GHz for a 5G new radio. Using an eighth-mode substrate integrated waveguide (EMSIW) cavity and considering a typical smartphone scenario, a two-element MIMO antenna is developed and extended to a twelve-element MIMO. These MIMO elements are closely spaced, and by employing multiple diversity techniques, high isolation is achieved without using a decoupling network. The asymmetric EMSIW structures resulted in radiation pattern diversity, and their orthogonal placement provides polarization diversity. The radiation characteristics and diversity performance are parametrically optimized for a two-element MIMO antenna. The experimental results exhibited 6.0 dB and 10.0 dB bandwidths of 250 and 100 MHz, respectively. The measured and simulated radiation patterns are closely matched with a peak gain of 3.4 dBi and isolation ≥36 dB. Encouraged with these results, higher-order MIMO, namely, four- and twelve-element MIMO are investigated, and isolation ≥35 and ≥22 dB are achieved, respectively. The channel capacity is found equal to 56.37 bps/Hz for twelve-element MIMO, which is nearly 6.25 times higher than the two-element counterpart. The hand and head proximity analysis reveal that the proposed antenna performances are within the acceptable limit. A detailed comparison with the previous works demonstrates that the proposed antenna offers a simple, low-cost, and compact MIMO antenna design solution with a high diversity performance.
Relative Positioning in Remote Areas Using a GNSS Dual Frequency Smartphone
Authors: Magalhães Américo , Bastos Luísa , Maia Dalmiro , Gonçalves José Alberto
Published: December 2021

The use of GPS positioning and navigation capabilities in mobile phones is present in our daily lives for more than a decade, but never with the centimeter level of precision that can actually be reached with several of the most recent smartphones. The introduction of the new GNSS systems (Global Navigation Satellite Systems), the European system Galileo, is opening new horizons in a wide range of areas that rely on precise georeferencing, namely the mass market smartphones apps. The constant growth of this market has brought new devices with innovative capabilities in hardware and software. The introduction of the Android 7 by Google, allowing access to the GNSS raw code and phase measurements, and the arrival of the new chip from Broadcom BCM47755 providing dual frequency in some smartphones came to revolutionize the positioning performance of these devices as never seen before. The Xiaomi Mi8 was the first smartphone to combine those features, and it is the device used in this work. It is well known that it is possible to obtain centimeter accuracy with this kind of device in relative static positioning mode with distances to a reference station up to a few tens of kilometers, which we also confirm in this paper. However, the main purpose of this work is to show that we can also get good positioning accuracy using long baselines. We used the ability of the Xiaomi Mi8 to get dual frequency code and phase raw measurements from the Galileo and GPS systems, to do relative static positioning in post-processing mode using wide baselines, of more than 100 km, to perform precise surveys. The results obtained were quite interesting with RMSE below 30 cm, showing that this type of smartphone can be easily used as a low-cost device, for georeferencing and mapping applications. This can be quite useful in remote areas where the CORS networks are not dense or even not available.
An Efficient and Reliable Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Khan Faheem , Ahmad Shabir , Gürüler Hüseyin , Cetin Gurcan , Whangbo Taegkeun , Kim Cheong-Ghil
Published: December 2021

In wireless sensor networks (WSN), flooding increases the reliability in terms of successful transmission of a packet with higher overhead. The flooding consumes the resources of the network quickly, especially in sensor networks, mobile ad-hoc networks, and vehicular ad-hoc networks in terms of the lifetime of the node, lifetime of the network, and battery lifetime, etc. This paper aims to develop an efficient and reliable protocol by using multicasting and unicasting to overcome the issue of higher overhead due to flooding. Unicasting is used when the desired destination is at a minimum distance to avoid an extra overhead and increases the efficiency of the network in terms of overhead and energy because unicasting is favorable where the distance is minimum. Similarly, multicasting is used when the desired destination is at maximum distance and increases the network’s reliability in terms of throughput. The results are implemented in the Department of Computer Science, Bacha Khan University Charsadda (BKUC), Pakistan, as well as in the Network Simulator-2 (NS-2). The results are compared with benchmark schemes such as PUMA and ERASCA, and based on the results, the performance of the proposed approach is improved in terms of overhead, throughput, and packet delivery fraction by avoiding flooding.
Eco-Friendly Separation of Antihyperlipidemic Combination Using UHPLC Particle-Packed and Monolithic Columns by Applying Green Analytical Chemistry Principles
Authors: Al-Tannak Naser F. , Hemdan Ahmed
Published: December 2021

Efficient separation of pharmaceuticals and metabolites with the adequate resolution is a key factor in choosing the most suitable chromatographic method. For quality control, the analysis time is a key factor, especially in pharmacokinetic studies. High back pressure is considered as one of the most important factors in chromatography’s flow control, especially in UHPLC. The separation of the anti-hyperlipidemic mixtures was carried out using two columns: a column silica-based particle packed UHPLC and a monolithic column. The systematic suitability of the two columns was compared for the separation of Fenofibrate, its active metabolite, Fenofibric acid and Pravastatin using Atorvastatin as an internal standard. Separation on both columns was obtained using ethanol: buffer potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate pH = 3 (adjusted with orthophosphoric acid) (75:25 v/v) as mobile phase and flow rate 0.8 mL/min. The analytes’ peak detection was achieved by using a PDA detector at 287 nm, 214 nm, 236 nm, and 250 nm for Fenofibrate, Fenofibric acid, Pravastatin, and Atorvastatin, respectively. Reduction of back-pressure was achieved with the monolithic column, where the analytes could be completely separated in less than 1.5 min at a flow rate of 5 mL/min. The principles of Green Analytical Chemistry (GAC) were followed throughout the developed method using environmentally safe solvents.
The Integration of Wheelchair Users in Team Handball
Authors: Greve Steffen , Heisler Sinikka , von Keutz Pia , Shirdel Blall , Fasold Frowin
Published: December 2021

Thus far, there are only a few sports activities in which people with and without intellectual disabilities can participate together and on an equal footing. The situation is even more complicated when people who are dependent on a wheelchair want to take part. The sports project Freiwurf Hamburg aims to make team handball playable for everyone. This case study documents how this can be achieved with a modified version of the handball game for runners and wheelchair users. Qualitative and quantitative data are collected and evaluated. The results show that players tend to distinguish between the roles of runner and wheelchair user rather than between disabled and non-disabled.
Future Trends and Aging Analysis of Battery Energy Storage Systems for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Asef Pedram , Milan Marzia , Lapthorn Andrew , Padmanaban Sanjeevikumar
Published: December 2021

The increase of electric vehicles (EVs), environmental concerns, energy preservation, battery selection, and characteristics have demonstrated the headway of EV development. It is known that the battery units require special considerations because of their nature of temperature sensitivity, aging effects, degradation, cost, and sustainability. Hence, EV advancement is currently concerned where batteries are the energy accumulating infers for EVs. This paper discusses recent trends and developments in battery deployment for EVs. Systematic reviews on explicit energy, state-of-charge, thermal efficiency, energy productivity, life cycle, battery size, market revenue, security, and commerciality are provided. The review includes battery-based energy storage advances and their development, characterizations, qualities of power transformation, and evaluation measures with advantages and burdens for EV applications. This study offers a guide for better battery selection based on exceptional performance proposed for traction applications (e.g., BEVs and HEVs), considering EV’s advancement subjected to sustainability issues, such as resource depletion and the release in the environment of ozone and carbon-damaging substances. This study also provides a case study on an aging assessment for the different types of batteries investigated. The case study targeted lithium-ion battery cells and how aging analysis can be influenced by factors such as ambient temperature, cell temperature, and charging and discharging currents. These parameters showed considerable impacts on life cycle numbers, as a capacity fading of 18.42%, between 25–65 °C was observed. Finally, future trends and demand of the lithium-ion batteries market could increase by 11% and 65%, between 2020–2025, for light-duty and heavy-duty EVs.
A Systematic Literature Review of Partnership Development at the University–Industry–Government Nexus
Authors: Burbridge Mike , Morrison Gregory M.
Published: December 2021

The increasingly entrepreneurial intent of universities implies the commercialization of knowledge and innovation through the triple helix of interactions between universities, industry and government. However, there remains a lack of clarity concerning best practice partnerships for innovation. This systematic literature review (SLR) provides insights onto the development of partnerships at the university–industry–government nexus and builds on the existing top-down/bottom-up approach for the creation of intermediaries of innovation. The SLR describes the evolution of these intermediaries, which is driven both by criteria set by partners and the globalization of the knowledge economy. This SLR reveals that the partnership structure most likely to further economic and broader societal goals is the living lab with the inherent focus on open innovation and co-creation. This SLR reveals that the living lab structure (and including sustainability labs and urban living labs) is the partnership structure utilized for innovation that addresses economic, social and environmental goals. Two areas are recommended for further research. One concerns the development of a deeper understanding of the relationship between the evolution in the structures of partnerships for innovation and how it is influenced by the globalization of the economy, society and environment, and changing modes of knowledge production. The other is to better understand why the living lab approach to partnership creation is best suited to the delivery of sustainable development objectives and how this learning can be applied to other models of partnership development at the university–industry–government nexus.
Sustainable Management of Peanut Shell through Biochar and Its Application as Soil Ameliorant
Authors: Nazir Aisha , Laila Um-e- , Bareen Firdaus-e- , Hameed Erum , Shafiq Muhammad
Published: December 2021

The current research encompasses utilization of peanut shells (PS) as feedstock for pyrolysis carried out at various temperatures (250, 400, and 550 °C) for deriving biochar, namely PS-BC250, PS-BC400, and PS-BC550. After analyzing the biochar types physicochemically, it was applied as a soil ameliorant for the growth of cucumber. The results showed that in prepared biochar type, bulk density, volatile contents, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen content decreased, whereas pH, electrical conductivity, ash content, fixed carbon content, and surface area increased with the increasing temperature. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) presented high porosity, re-orientation of vessels, and a greater number of aromatic compounds, respectively, for PS-BC prepared at 550 °C. On applying PS-BC250, PS-BC400, and PS-BC550 as amendments in potted soil at 2, 4, and 6% (w/w), it improved soil quality (viz pH, ECe, BD, and soil water holding capacity) and increased the yield of cucumber. Because of improved soil properties and crop yield, PS-BC550 at the rate of 4% (w/w) demonstrated a great potential for agricultural application while provisioning dual circular economic indicators in the form of diverting PS waste to an effective alternative of chemical fertilizer having intensive carbon footprints in cucumber production.
Thermodynamic and Kinetic Description of the Main Effects Related to the Memory Effect during Carbon Dioxide Hydrates Formation in a Confined Environment
Authors: Rossi Federico , Li Yan , Gambelli Alberto Maria
Published: December 2021

This article consists of an experimental description about how the memory effect intervenes on hydrates formation. In particular, carbon dioxide hydrates were formed in a lab–scale apparatus and in presence of demineralized water and a pure quartz porous medium. The same gas-water mixture was used. Half of experiments was carried out in order to ensure that the system retained memory of previous processes, while in the other half, such effect was completely avoided. Experiments were characterized thermodynamically and kinetically. The local conditions, required for hydrates formation, were compared with those of equilibrium. Moreover, the time needed for the process completion and the rate constant trend over time, were defined. The study of these parameters, together with the observation that hydrates formation was quantitatively similar in both types of experiments, allowed to conclude that the memory effect mainly acted as kinetic promoter for carbon dioxide hydrates formation.
Study in Driving Strategy and Analysis of Sustainable and Symbiosis Development Relationship between Agricultural Industrial Clusters and Agricultural Logistics Industry
Authors: Jiang Yigang , Yao Guanxin , Xu Jing , Tian Yue
Published: December 2021

Due to a lack of profound disclosure of the internal mechanism for the symbiotic development of agricultural industrial clusters and agricultural logistics industry, the current study finds it difficult to form specific and implementable driving countermeasures well. Quantitative research on their symbiotic development and evolution is an important method to promote the further development of agricultural industry and agricultural logistics industry. In this paper, the factors affecting the sustainable symbiotic development relationship are analyzed between agricultural industry clusters and agricultural logistics industry with explanatory structural equation, and a system-driving model is constructed for the symbiotic development of agricultural enterprise clusters and agricultural logistics industry. The analysis indicated that, for the symbiotic development of agricultural enterprise clusters and agricultural logistics industry, the macro policy orientation is the fundamental driving force and the symbiotic development effect is its final result. Seven driving paths are refined, and the relevant countermeasures to promote the sustainable development of agricultural industrial clusters and agricultural logistics industry are put forward one at a time.
Multi-Objective Optimization of CNC Turning Process Parameters Considering Transient-Steady State Energy Consumption
Authors: Jia Shun , Wang Shang , Lv Jingxiang , Cai Wei , Zhang Na , Zhang Zhongwei , Bai Shuowei
Published: December 2021

Energy-saving and emission reduction are recognized as the primary measure to tackle the problems associated with climate change, which is one of the major challenges for humanity for the forthcoming decades. Energy modeling and process parameters optimization of machining are effective and powerful ways to realize energy saving in the manufacturing industry. In order to realize high quality and low energy consumption machining of computer numerical control (CNC) lathe, a multi-objective optimization of CNC turning process parameters considering transient-steady state energy consumption is proposed. By analyzing the energy consumption characteristics in the process of machining and introducing practical constraints, such as machine tool equipment performance and tool life, a multi-objective optimization model with turning process parameters as optimization variables and high quality and low energy consumption as optimization objectives is established. The model is solved by non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (NSGA-II), and the pareto optimal solution set of the model is obtained. Finally, the machining process of shaft parts is studied by CK6153i CNC lathe. The results show that 38.3% energy consumption is saved, and the surface roughness of workpiece is reduced by 47.0%, which verifies the effectiveness of the optimization method.
A Regional Review of Marine and Coastal Impacts of Climate Change on the ROPME Sea Area
Authors: Lincoln Susana , Buckley Paul , Howes Ella L. , Maltby Katherine M. , Pinnegar John K. , Ali Thamer S. , Alosairi Yousef , Al-Ragum Alanoud , Baglee Alastair , Balmes Chiden Oseo , Hamadou Radhouane Ben , Burt John A. , Claereboudt Michel , Glavan Jane , Mamiit Rusyan Jill , Naser Humood A. , Sedighi Omid , Shokri Mohammad Reza , Shuhaibar Bassam , Wabnitz Colette C. C. , Le Quesne Will J. F.
Published: December 2021

The Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME) Sea Area (RSA) in the northern Indian Ocean, which comprises the Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the northern Arabian Sea, already experiences naturally extreme environmental conditions and incorporates one of the world’s warmest seas. There is growing evidence that climate change is already affecting the environmental conditions of the RSA, in areas including sea temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and sea level, which are set to continue changing over time. The cumulative impacts of these changes on coastal and marine ecosystems and dependent societies are less well documented, but are likely to be significant, especially in the context of other human stressors. This review represents the first regional synthesis of observed and predicted climate change impacts on marine and coastal ecosystems across the ROPME Sea Area and their implications for dependent societies. Climate-driven ecological changes include loss of coral reefs due to bleaching and the decline of fish populations, while socio-economic impacts include physical impacts from sea-level rise and cyclones, risk to commercial wild capture fisheries, disruption to desalination systems and loss of tourism. The compilation of this review is aimed to support the development of targeted adaptation actions and to direct future research within the RSA.
Role of the Land-Based Private Sector in Low-Emission Development: An Indonesian Case
Authors: Alviya Iis , Sarker Tapan , Sarvaiya Harsha , Iftekhar Md Sayed
Published: December 2021

The land-based private sector is a critical player in reducing emissions in Indonesia. While the Indonesian Government has undertaken various national efforts to reduce the rate of deforestation and land degradation, the involvement of land-based private sectors are still minimal. Using content and thematic analysis, this study explores why land-based private sector is not leading to low carbon development in Indonesia. More specifically, this study aims to: (1) analyse two key policies critically shaping the land-based private sector’s involvement in low emission development in Indonesia; (2) identify the land-based sector’s practices to engage in the development of low carbon policies in the East Kalimantan Province in Indonesia; and (3) conduct a participants’ perceptions analysis to identify the critical factors influencing their involvement in low emissions development. The results show that even though the Government has adopted several mandatory regulations to support the land-based private sector’s participation in emission reduction activities, to date, only a handful of businesses are actively involved in emission reduction efforts. The key barrier identified is the lack of incentives for the businesses to implement low emission programs/activities. This study offers four specific policy recommendations that could support land-based private sector involvement in low emission development in Indonesia. These include (1) establishment of an independent monitoring agency; (2) incentives for ecologically sustainable companies that meet predetermined standard criteria; (3) strict and fair sanctions as disincentives for companies that ignore regulations, and (4) building capacity of the land-based private sector to adopt and develop innovative low emission practices.
University Students Intention to Continue Using Online Learning Tools and Technologies: An International Comparison
Authors: Soria-Barreto Karla , Ruiz-Campo Sofia , Al-Adwan Ahmad Samed , Zuniga-Jara Sergio
Published: December 2021

In recent years, universities have put enormous efforts to promote the use of online learning among students and lecturers. Despite this, little is known about the intention of students to use online learning. The objective of this research is to study the continuance intention of online learning in the post-COVID-19 period in higher education. The research focuses on online learning tools and technologies by applying a modified Expectation-Confirmation Model (ECM) developed from earlier theoretical models, including three new constructs: the self-management of learning, computer anxiety, and habit. The international research compares three countries—Spain (Europe), Chile (Latin America), and Jordan (Asia)—which differ economically and culturally. The Partial Least Squares approach (PLS-SEM) was used to test the research model. As a conclusion of the study, the relationships of the proposed model’s constructs vary among the three countries, given their socioeconomic, technological, and cultural differences. Interestingly, self-management learning is a key factor that has a significant positive influence on continuance intention for the three countries, especially in Jordan. This study makes an interesting contribution to existing research in education and discusses how learning can be made more sustainable in complex settings.
The Remaking of Institutions for Local Climate Governance? Towards Understanding Climate Governance in a Multi-Level UK Local Government Area: A Micro-Local Case Study
Authors: Russell Erica , Christie Ian
Published: December 2021

The crisis of climate disruption and shortcomings in top-down approaches has focused attention on the effectiveness of governance to achieve climate goals. New sub-national governance models such as business alliances, city networks and NGO coalitions have emerged; such institutional ‘re-making’ is often motivated by frustration at national inaction, and by a belief thatlocal actors offer an effective ‘bottom-up’ approach. Literature on the emergence of climate-led multi-level and polycentric governance focuses primarily on cities; the role of urban-rural counties and of the micro-level of local government, and the challenges and opportunities before them, is less well studied. This paper draws on work in progress in a study exploring progress, challenges and failings in UK climate governance across multiple levels of county-based government: Surrey, an area of towns, peri-urban districts and countryside, is offered as a case study, with a focus on micro-level action in small towns and parishes. We find that despite a lack of national government orchestration or sub-regional frameworks, climate action is occurring voluntarily at all levels of governance. However, the nature of action is variable and irregular and there is little evidence as yet to demonstrate effectiveness. A fragmented form of multi-level governance is observed, with limited upward flows of ideas and no indication of national interest in micro-local climate lessons and experience. We identify the importance of ‘wilful actors’ and the need for greater coordination, information- and knowledge-sharing networks to achieve effective institutional ‘remaking’ for climate action.
The Importance of Technical Support in the Return of Traditional Crops in the Alps: The Case of Rye in Camonica Valley
Authors: Leoni Valeria , Pedrali Davide , Zuccolo Marco , Rodari Alessia , Giupponi Luca , Giorgi Annamaria
Published: December 2021

Multifunctional agriculture could be strategic for the recovery of some mountain areas of the Alps, and traditional crops like cereals generated study cases that triggered processes of development, such as rye in Camonica Valley (Northern Italy). However, farmers are often newcomers, and the specificities of low input agriculture make the training in agriculture fundamental. The impact of public workshops/seminars (organized by the Ge.S.Di.Mont. Research Centre of the University of Milan in Camonica Valley) on cereal cultivation between 2016 and 2021 was investigated. Moreover, rye produced in Camonica Valley was analyzed. The results show an increase in participation and a wider use of the streaming service. The percentage of participants not from an agricultural background had always remained about 50%, but decreased to 15.17% ± 5.07 in 2021, in contrast to the increase of professionals in agriculture and forestry. This is probably due to the accreditation of training activities for agronomists and foresters, and to the start of specific training projects regarding cereals. Samples of rye produced in Camonica Valley following the period of training activities were phytochemically/nutritionally characterized and compared to commercial rye. Locally produced rye proved to be comparable to the commercial one; however it showed a remarkable unevenness in secondary metabolite content and productivity, due to environmental differences and diverse agro-techniques.
Does Shade Impact Coffee Yield, Tree Trunk, and Soil Moisture on Coffea canephora Plantations in Mondulkiri, Cambodia?
Authors: Ehrenbergerová Lenka , Klimková Marie , Cano Yessika Garcia , Habrová Hana , Lvončík Samuel , Volařík Daniel , Khum Warbota , Němec Petr , Kim Soben , Jelínek Petr , Maděra Petr
Published: December 2021

Shade is a natural condition for coffee plants; however, unshaded plantations currently predominate in Asia. The benefits of shading increase as the environment becomes less favorable for coffee cultivation, e.g., because of climate change. It is necessary to determine the effects of shade on the yield of Coffea canephora and on the soil water availability. Therefore, three coffee plantations (of 3, 6, and 9 ha) in the province of Mondulkiri, Cambodia, were selected to evaluate the effect of shade on Coffea canephora yields, coffee bush trunk changes, and soil moisture. Our study shows that shade-grown coffee delivers the same yields as coffee that is grown without shading in terms of coffee bean weight or size (comparing average values and bean variability), the total weight of coffee fruits per coffee shrub and the total weight of 100 fruits (fresh and dry). Additionally, fruit ripeness was not influenced by shade in terms of variability nor in terms of a possible delay in ripening. There was no difference in the coffee stem diameter changes between shaded and sunny sites, although the soil moisture was shown to be higher throughout the shaded sites.
Realizing United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for Greener Remediation of Heavy Metals-Contaminated Soils by Biochar: Emerging Trends and Future Directions
Authors: Mazarji Mahmoud , Bayero Muhammad Tukur , Minkina Tatiana , Sushkova Svetlana , Mandzhieva Saglara , Tereshchenko Andrey , Timofeeva Anna , Bauer Tatiana , Burachevskaya Marina , Kızılkaya Rıdvan , Gülser Coşkun , Keswani Chetan
Published: December 2021

The remediation of heavy metals (HMs) in soil is always an important topic, as environmental contamination by HMs is of serious concern. Numerous potential advantages, especially integrated with biochar produced from various biomass, might provide an ecologically beneficial tool for achieving the UN’s sustainable development objectives for greener soil remediation. The aim of this study was to address how the soil-science professions may best successfully utilize biochar for greener remediation of HMs-contaminated soils. In this context, the biochar preparation method from different agricultural feedstock, and its use as a soil amendment for remediation of HMs-contaminated soil, were discussed. Furthermore, biochar-based nanocomposites containing functional materials have lately attracted much interest because of the unique properties emerging from their nanoscale size compartment, and present good promise in terms of reactivity and stability. The utility and potency of biochar-based nanocomposites, on the other hand, are determined by their ability to adapt to particular site circumstances and soil qualities. This overview summarized the current advances in the application for the remediation of HMs-polluted soils. Future views on the usage and possibilities for deploying biochar-based nanocomposites in polluted soils were discussed.
Supporting Bilingualism in Vulnerable Populations
Authors: Vender Maria , Vernice Mirta , Sorace Antonella
Published: December 2021

Although bilingualism is generally appraised and supported by society, many more doubts arise when it comes to children suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders. The concern that the exposure to two languages might deteriorate the linguistic development of children, together with the advice to simplify the linguistic environment and to adopt a monolingual approach, leads many families to abandon their home language and sacrifice bilingualism. Scientific research, however, has shown that this fear is ungrounded and that children with developmental disorders can become successful bilingual speakers, if they are provided with appropriate linguistic exposure. The aim of this paper is that of providing a state-of-the-art of the literature on this topic, by reviewing studies conducted on the interaction between bilingualism and neurodevelopmental disorders, focusing in particular on the interaction between bilingualism and developmental language disorder (DLD), developmental dyslexia and autism spectrum disorder. We discuss issues related to the early identification of DLD and dyslexia among bilinguals and we report the results of studies showing that bilingualism does not exacerbate the difficulties of children with developmental disorders, but on the contrary it can be beneficial for them, at the cognitive, linguistic and socio-cultural level. Finally, we provide some recommendations for parents, educators and practitioners, focusing on the importance of supporting the family language in all of its components, including literacy, for a complete and harmonic bilingual growth.
COVID-19 Changed Human-Nature Interactions across Green Space Types: Evidence of Change in Multiple Types of Activities from the West Bank, Palestine
Authors: Dawwas Emad B. , Dyson Karen
Published: December 2021

COVID-19 stay-at-home orders impacted the way humans interacted with built and natural environments. Previous research on the human use of green spaces during the pandemic, largely conducted in a Western context, has found increased use of home gardens and urban green spaces, and decreased visitation to conservation areas. We explored changes in residents’ outdoor nature-associated activities during the pandemic in the West Bank, Palestine. We used a web-based survey to ask residents about their passive, interactive, and extractive outdoor activities that take place in home gardens, urban parks, and natural areas. Overall, our 1278 respondents spent less time with family and friends and more time alone. We found differences in respondent’s participation in activities both between green space types and between activity types. Participation in passive appreciation of nature activities increased for home gardens but decreased in urban parks and natural areas. Interactive activities, including cultivation, increased for all areas, while extractive activities stayed the same or decreased. Only in natural areas did respondents’ demographics explain changes in activity participation rates after the pandemic. Residents’ increased time alone raises concerns about mental health. The differences we observed in activity participation across green space types highlights the importance of looking across different types of natural spaces and different activities in the same setting, as well as examining non-Western settings.