bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Lithium Extraction Using Electrode Materials of Li-Ion Battery from Brine/Seawater
Authors: Sun Jianpeng , Liang Dongdong , Meng Xiangchao , Li Zizhen
Published: December 2022

With the rapid development of industry, the demand for lithium resources is increasing. Traditional methods such as precipitation usually take 1–2 years, and depend on weather conditions. In addition, electrochemical lithium recovery (ELR) as a green chemical method has attracted a great deal of attention. Herein, we summarize the systems of electrochemical lithium extraction and the electrode materials of the Li-ion battery from brine/seawater. Some representative work on electrochemical lithium extraction is then introduced. Finally, we prospect the future opportunities and challenges of electrochemical lithium extraction. In all, this review explores electrochemical lithium extraction from brine/seawater in depth, with special attention to the systems and electrode of electrochemical lithium extraction, which could provide a useful guidance for reasonable electrochemical-lithium-extraction.
Indonesian Scientists’ Behavior Relative to Research Data Governance in Preventing WMD-Applicable Technology Transfer
Authors: Manik Lindung Parningotan , Akbar Zaenal , Yaman Aris , Indrawati Ariani
Published: December 2022

Performing research data governance is critical for preventing the transfer of technologies related to weapons of mass destruction (WMD). While research data governance is common in developed countries, it is still often considered less necessary by research organizations in developing countries such as Indonesia. An investigation of research data governance behavior for Indonesian scientists was conducted in this study. The theories of planned behavior (TPB) and protection motivation (PMT) were used to explain the relationships between different factors influencing scientists’ behavior. The theories have been widely used in the information security domain, and the approach was adopted to build the research model of this study. The obtained data were analyzed using partial least-squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to answer the main research question: “what factors determine the likelihood of practicing research data governance by Indonesian scientists to prevent WMD-applicable technology transfer?” By learning what motivates scientists to adopt research data governance practices, organizations can design relevant strategies that are directed explicitly at stimulating positive responses. The results of this study can also be applied in other developing countries that have similar situations, such as Indonesia.
Challenges of Promoting Open Science within the NI4OS-Europe Project in Hungary
Authors: Lencsés Ákos , Sütő Péter
Published: December 2022

National Initiatives for Open Science in Europe (NI4OS-Europe) is a Horizon 2020 project related to the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC). One of the project objectives is promoting EOSC and open science in 15 Central and East European EU states and EU-associated countries. This paper describes the variety of promoting activities carried out in Hungary as part of the NI4OS-Europe project by the Governmental Agency for IT Development (KIFÜ). Identifying good practices will give us the chance to find the best communication channels and methods to promote open science and to manage expectations of funders, researchers and librarians. The audience diversity of organized NI4OS events was analyzed in this study. The anonymized dataset based on registration forms was filtered by profession. Results suggest that events are generally visited by more librarians than researchers. The only exception is the third forum where the main Hungarian research fund as co-organizer might have attracted researchers’ attention. This suggests that librarians are considered to be in charge of open science issues in general. Usage data of the open science news feed were also studied. The 130 posts between May 2021 and April 2022 and 2500 visitors until the end of June 2022 give us the chance to learn about the characteristics of the most visited posts. We can conclude that the focus of communication is on open and FAIR data management, while other areas receive less attention. The results show that despite more international posts being published, the target group is more interested in local information.
Road Damage Detection Using the Hunger Games Search with Elman Neural Network on High-Resolution Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Al Duhayyim Mesfer , Malibari Areej A. , Alharbi Abdullah , Afef Kallekh , Yafoz Ayman , Alsini Raed , Alghushairy Omar , Mohsen Heba
Published: December 2022

Roads can be significant traffic lifelines that can be damaged by collapsed tree branches, landslide rubble, and buildings debris. Thus, road damage detection and evaluation by utilizing High-Resolution Remote Sensing Images (RSI) are highly important to maintain routes in optimal conditions and execute rescue operations. Detecting damaged road areas through high-resolution aerial images could promote faster and effectual disaster management and decision making. Several techniques for the prediction and detection of road damage caused by earthquakes are available. Recently, computer vision (CV) techniques have appeared as an optimal solution for road damage automated inspection. This article presents a new Road Damage Detection modality using the Hunger Games Search with Elman Neural Network (RDD–HGSENN) on High-Resolution RSIs. The presented RDD–HGSENN technique mainly aims to determine road damages using RSIs. In the presented RDD–HGSENN technique, the RetinaNet model was applied for damage detection on a road. In addition, the RDD–HGSENN technique can perform road damage classification using the ENN model. To tune the ENN parameters automatically, the HGS algorithm was exploited in this work. To examine the enhanced outcomes of the presented RDD–HGSENN technique, a comprehensive set of simulations were conducted. The experimental outcomes demonstrated the improved performance of the RDD–HGSENN technique with respect to recent approaches in relation to several measures.
Assessing Crop Water Requirement and Yield by Combining ERA5-Land Reanalysis Data with CM-SAF Satellite-Based Radiation Data and Sentinel-2 Satellite Imagery
Authors: Pelosi Anna , Belfiore Oscar Rosario , D’Urso Guido , Chirico Giovanni Battista
Published: December 2022

The widespread development of Earth Observation (EO) systems and advances in numerical atmospheric modeling have made it possible to use the newest data sources as input for crop–water balance models, thereby improving the crop water requirements (CWR) and yield estimates from the field to the regional scale. Satellite imagery and numerical weather prediction outputs offer high resolution (in time and space) gridded data that can compensate for the paucity of crop parameter field measurements and ground weather observations, as required for assessments of CWR and yield. In this study, the AquaCrop model was used to assess CWR and yield of tomato on a farm in Southern Italy by assimilating Sentinel-2 (S2) canopy cover imagery and using CM-SAF satellite-based radiation data and ERA5-Land reanalysis as forcing weather data. The prediction accuracy was evaluated with field data collected during the irrigation season (April–July) of 2021. Satellite estimates of canopy cover differed from ground observations, with a RMSE of about 11%. CWR and yield predictions were compared with actual data regarding irrigation volumes and harvested yield. The results showed that S2 estimates of crop parameters represent added value, since their assimilation into crop growth models improved CWR and yield estimates. Reliable CWR and yield estimates can be achieved by combining the ERA5-Land and CM-SAF weather databases with S2 imagery for assimilation into the AquaCrop model.
Posture Monitoring and Correction Exercises for Workers in Hostile Environments Utilizing Non-Invasive Sensors: Algorithm Development and Validation
Authors: Khaksar Siavash , Pieters Stefanie , Borazjani Bita , Hyde Joshua , Booker Harrison , Khokhar Adil , Murray Iain , Campbell Amity
Published: December 2022

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is an essential key factor in standardizing safety within the workplace. Harsh working environments with long working hours can cause stress on the human body that may lead to musculoskeletal disorder (MSD). MSD refers to injuries that impact the muscles, nerves, joints, and many other human body areas. Most work-related MSD results from hazardous manual tasks involving repetitive, sustained force, or repetitive movements in awkward postures. This paper presents collaborative research from the School of Electrical Engineering and School of Allied Health at Curtin University. The main objective was to develop a framework for posture correction exercises for workers in hostile environments, utilizing inertial measurement units (IMU). The developed system uses IMUs to record the head, back, and pelvis movements of a healthy participant without MSD and determine the range of motion of each joint. A simulation was developed to analyze the participant’s posture to determine whether the posture present would pose an increased risk of MSD with limits to a range of movement set based on the literature. When compared to measurements made by a goniometer, the body movement recorded 94% accuracy and the wrist movement recorded 96% accuracy.
Near-IR & Mid-IR Silicon Photonics Modulators
Authors: Georgiev Georgi V. , Cao Wei , Zhang Weiwei , Ke Li , Thomson David J. , Reed Graham T. , Nedeljkovic Milos , Mashanovich Goran Z.
Published: December 2022

As the silicon photonics field matures and a data-hungry future looms ahead, new technologies are required to keep up pace with the increase in capacity demand. In this paper, we review current developments in the near-IR and mid-IR group IV photonic modulators that show promising performance. We analyse recent trends in optical and electrical co-integration of modulators and drivers enabling modulation data rates of 112 GBaud in the near infrared. We then describe new developments in short wave infrared spectrum modulators such as employing more spectrally efficient PAM-4 coding schemes for modulations up to 40 GBaud. Finally, we review recent results at the mid infrared spectrum and application of the thermo-optic effect for modulation as well as the emergence of new platforms based on germanium to tackle the challenges of modulating light in the long wave infrared spectrum up to 10.7 μm with data rates of 225 MBaud.
The PBC Model: Supporting Positive Behaviours in Smart Environments
Authors: Adewoyin Oluwande , Wesson Janet , Vogts Dieter
Published: December 2022

Several behavioural problems exist in office environments, including resource use, sedentary behaviour, cognitive/multitasking, and social media. These behavioural problems have been solved through subjective or objective techniques. Within objective techniques, behavioural modelling in smart environments (SEs) can allow the adequate provision of services to users of SEs with inputs from user modelling. The effectiveness of current behavioural models relative to user-specific preferences is unclear. This study introduces a new approach to behavioural modelling in smart environments by illustrating how human behaviours can be effectively modelled from user models in SEs. To achieve this aim, a new behavioural model, the Positive Behaviour Change (PBC) Model, was developed and evaluated based on the guidelines from the Design Science Research Methodology. The PBC Model emphasises the importance of using user-specific information within the user model for behavioural modelling. The PBC model comprised the SE, the user model, the behaviour model, classification, and intervention components. The model was evaluated using a naturalistic-summative evaluation through experimentation using office workers. The study contributed to the knowledge base of behavioural modelling by providing a new dimension to behavioural modelling by incorporating the user model. The results from the experiment revealed that behavioural patterns could be extracted from user models, behaviours can be classified and quantified, and changes can be detected in behaviours, which will aid the proper identification of the intervention to provide for users with or without behavioural problems in smart environments.
Design and Installed Performance Analysis of a Miniaturized All-GNSS Bands Antenna Array for Robust Navigation on UAV Platforms
Authors: Hehenberger Simon P. , Elmarissi Wahid , Caizzone Stefano
Published: December 2022

Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) are vital technologies of our age and serve a plethora of industries that rely on precise positioning for automation, efficiency, and safety. Emerging applications of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in critical applications like security, surveillance, critical logistics and defense demand precise and robust navigation capabilities even in challenging environments with high multipath or (un-)intended interference. The design of robust GNSS receivers for UAV applications, capable of suppressing interfering signals, is challenging due to the need for multi-antenna systems and the stringent requirements on hardware to be lightweight and miniaturized enough to fit onto small mobile platforms. In order to overcome these limitations, the present article details a four-element wideband antenna array, fitting into a 100 mm diameter footprint. The array is capable to operate across all GNSS frequency bands while incorporating, if needed, a multipath mitigation solution. The antenna design relies on a modular concept with 3D printed Dielectric Resonator Antennas (DRAs) and vertical choke rings. The antenna performance is evaluated in terms of its radiation pattern via installed antenna simulations and measurements in an anechoic chamber. The effect of different installation heights on the antenna pattern is studied. Furthermore, GNSS measurements carried out with the array alone and mounted on the UAV are presented.
An Electronic Nose as a Non-Destructive Analytical Tool to Identify the Geographical Origin of Portuguese Olive Oils from Two Adjacent Regions
Authors: Rodrigues Nuno , Ferreiro Nuno , Veloso Ana C. A. , Pereira José A. , Peres António M.
Published: December 2022

The geographical traceability of extra virgin olive oils (EVOO) is of paramount importance for oil chain actors and consumers. Oils produced in two adjacent Portuguese regions, Côa (36 oils) and Douro (31 oils), were evaluated and fulfilled the European legal thresholds for EVOO categorization. Compared to the Douro region, oils from Côa had higher total phenol contents (505 versus 279 mg GAE/kg) and greater oxidative stabilities (17.5 versus 10.6 h). The majority of Côa oils were fruity-green, bitter, and pungent oils. Conversely, Douro oils exhibited a more intense fruity-ripe and sweet sensation. Accordingly, different volatiles were detected, belonging to eight chemical families, from which aldehydes were the most abundant. Additionally, all oils were evaluated using a lab-made electronic nose, with metal oxide semiconductor sensors. The electrical fingerprints, together with principal component analysis, enabled the unsupervised recognition of the oils’ geographical origin, and their successful supervised linear discrimination (sensitivity of 98.5% and specificity of 98.4%; internal validation). The E-nose also quantified the contents of the two main volatile chemical classes (alcohols and aldehydes) and of the total volatiles content, for the studied olive oils split by geographical origin, using multivariate linear regression models (0.981 ≤ R2 ≤ 0.998 and 0.40 ≤ RMSE ≤ 2.79 mg/kg oil; internal validation). The E-nose-MOS was shown to be a fast, green, non-invasive and cost-effective tool for authenticating the geographical origin of the studied olive oils and to estimate the contents of the most abundant chemical classes of volatiles.
Production of Acoustic Insulating Materials from Viscoelastic Mattress Waste
Authors: Conesa Juan A. , Tomás Eugenio
Published: December 2022

In this work, briquettes from mattress waste are manufactured and the acoustic properties of the materials produced are checked. Briquettes are made at temperatures between 170 and 185 °C using waste from viscoelastic memory foam (VMF) and applying pressures between 25 and 75 MPa. Later, the properties of the materials such as their bulk density, porosity, and compaction factor are measured. Afterwards, the materials are subjected to a test to determine the sound reduction index at different frequencies. This is completed with a home-made system in which the acoustic signal is compared in the presence and absence of the mattress briquettes using MATLAB® software (Mathworks, Natick, MA, USA) for signal computing. The results are also compared with a reference acoustic insulation material. The runs show that the materials produced from mattress waste are able to reduce the intensity of sound in a similar way to commercial materials. In fact, reduction indices with prepared briquettes are much higher in the frequencies that most affect the human ear, compared to a reference insulating material.
Problems, Management, and Prospects of Acid Sulphate Soils in the Ganges Delta
Authors: Sarangi Sukanta Kumar , Mainuddin Mohammed , Maji Buddheswar
Published: December 2022

Soil is a finite natural resource and is indispensable for human civilization because it is the medium for food production for the biosphere. Continued soil degradation is a forerunner of catastrophe for the living world. The protection of healthy soils and the restoration of problem soils are strongly needed in the current agricultural scenario as competition for urbanization and other human needs for land resources limits the scope for the further availability of land for agriculture. Naturally occurring degraded soils, such as acid sulphate soils, can be restored with scientific interventions and advanced management strategies. The Ganges Delta is a densely populated region, where the inhabitants’ major livelihood is agriculture. Soil acidity and salinity restrict crop performance in this coastal region, particularly the acid sulphate soils (ASSs) posing a risk to agriculture. ASSs are developed from land-use changes from mangrove forest to agricultural land in this region. There is no systematic study on these soil types covering Bangladesh and India. This paper unfolds several aspects related to the characteristics, problems, and detailed management strategies of ASSs relevant to the Gangetic Delta region where these soils continue to be used for intensive agriculture to meet the livelihood needs. Crop yields are very poor in the unmanaged ASSs due to a very low soil pH (<3.5), hampering the growth and development of crops due to nutrient deficiencies and/or toxicities, coupled with soil salinity. There is toxicity of water-soluble Fe, Al, and Mn. The phosphorus nutrition of crops in these soils is affected owing to a high soil P fixation capacity. A deficiency of micronutrients, such as Zn and Cu, was also observed; however, K availability is variable in the soil. The soil acidity is a general problem throughout the soil profile; however, extreme acidity (pH < 3.5) in particular soil horizons is a typical soil characteristic, which creates problems for its efficient management. Specific operations, such as the selective use of soil layers with good properties for crop root growth, major and minor nutrient applications, and soil amendments, including green manuring, application of biofertilizers, and soil microbes, are gradually improving the properties of these soils and bringing back the potential for good crop production. Scientific water/drainage management is needed to gain an agronomic advantage. Evidence of increased crop yields in these soils observed from green manuring, lime, basic slag, and rock phosphate application are presented.
Development and Validation of the Smart Tourism Experience Scale
Authors: Lee Tsung-Hung , Jan Fen-Hauh
Published: December 2022

Smart technology has been introduced in the tourism industry for several decades. Nature-based tourism destinations contribute to environmental education and sustainable tourism. Tourism experiences have been extensively assessed in past research; however, no studies have clarified the conceptualization and research instruments of smart tourism experiences, especially in nature-based tourism contexts. To fill this research gap, the present study aimed to develop a valid scale to evaluate the smart tourism experience of nature-based tourists. In study 1, a 32-item research instrument was developed using a mixed approach. In study 2, overall, 897 valid questionnaires were obtained, and confirmatory factor analysis was employed to examine a reliable and valid 29-item scale. In study 3, this scale was cross-validated with 662 respondents for the calibration sample and 674 respondents for the validation sample. The criterion-related validity was also assessed by examining the correlations among five dimensions of the smart tourism experience and overall satisfaction and loyalty. When tourists visit a smart tourism destination, they are more likely to respect the natural environment and use smart technology applications, which provide useful information to plan itineraries and identify diverse and entertaining recreation experiences. Consequently, these applications increase their satisfaction and loyalty, thus assisting in the development of sustainable tourism. The present study extends the theoretical framework of smart tourism experiences to managerial implications by providing a conception and measure, filling the research gaps, and contributing significantly to the tourism literature.
Learners’ Continuous Use Intention of Blended Learning: TAM-SET Model
Authors: Chen Xiulan , Xu Xiaofei , Wu Yenchun Jim , Pok Wei Fong
Published: December 2022

Blended learning (BL) combines online and face-to-face teaching and learning and is thought to be an effective means to cultivate learners’ sustainability literacy. The success of BL relies on learners who take the initiative to participate in the learning process. Therefore, this study aims to examine learners’ acceptance of the BL system. The technology acceptance model (TAM) and the self-efficacy theory are combined to construct a systematic model to determine the learners’ continuous intention to adopt BL. Seven constructs are identified, i.e., course quality (CQ), technical support (TS), perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEOU), satisfaction (SE), self-efficacy (SE), and behavioral intentions (BI). A survey was conducted using a close-ended questionnaire, and 461 valid responses were collected from Huaqiao University’s undergraduate students. Covariance-based structural equation modelling was performed. The empirical findings show that except for the hypothesis regarding the connection between PU and PEOU, all the other hypotheses are verified. CQ stands out as having the greatest positive effect on PEOU, which highlights the importance of CQ for BL. The study also confirms that PU significantly impacts SA, SE, and BI, and both SA and SE significantly influence BI. Based on these results, some suggestions are provided for educators and administrators as to how to better design BL systems to strengthen sustainability education.
Safety Analysis of Merging Vehicles Based on the Speed Difference between on-Ramp and Following Mainstream Vehicles Using NGSIM Data
Authors: Hussain Qinaat , Dias Charitha , Al-Shahrani Ali , Hussain Intizar
Published: December 2022

Highway merging points are critical elements due to the interactions between merging vehicles and following vehicles on the outermost lane of the highway stream. Such interactions could have significant implications for safety and capacity at ramp locations. The aim of this study was to investigate the spacing adjustment behavior by the interacting drivers at merging locations. In this regard, we relied on the NGSIM trajectory dataset to investigate the impacts of the speed difference between the following and merging vehicles on a space headway, considering different geometric designs and vehicle classes. Nonlinear regression models were estimated to analyze the interactions. The results showed a significant and exponential tendency for headway reduction, particularly when the difference in speed was higher than 30 km/h. In addition, the findings revealed that the highway with an auxiliary lane performed better in terms of headway reduction. Furthermore, the space headway reduction trend was higher when the following vehicle was a truck rather than a car. Policymakers and practitioners aiming to improve road safety at merging locations could use this study’s findings. The resulting parameters can also be utilized in microsimulation models, e.g., for headway adjustment behavior in car-following models.
A Study on the Evaluation of Green Innovation Efficiency and Influencing Factors of the Chinese Tourism Industry
Authors: Zheng Yuxiang , Zhang Kegong
Published: December 2022

It is necessary to promote harmony between the economic growth of tourism and the resource environment to achieve the green and sustainable development of China’s tourism industry. The research objects were taken in 30 provinces and cities in China. The green innovation efficiency of tourism is measured and evaluated based on the super-efficient SBM model and Moran index. The spatial and temporal heterogeneity of the influencing factors of green innovation efficiency is analyzed using the GWR model. The study shows that: (1) The level of green innovation efficiency of the tourism industry as a whole keeps improving during the study period, but the development is uneven among eastern, central, and western provinces. (2) The spatial correlation of the green innovation efficiency of the tourism industry in 30 provinces and cities keeps getting closer and closer, and some regions show the characteristics of spatial aggregation. (3) The green innovation efficiency of the tourism industry is affected by various factors, such as the level of economic development and the level of professional development of the tourism industry. (4) Tourism green innovation efficiency is influenced by various factors, such as economic development level and tourism professional development level, and there are apparent intensity differences and spatial heterogeneity among various influencing factors. Finally, reasonable countermeasures are proposed to promote the overall improvement and balanced development of green innovation efficiency in China’s tourism industry.
Measurements versus Estimates of Soil Subsidence and Mineralization Rates at Peatland over 50 Years (1966–2016)
Authors: Oleszczuk Ryszard , Łachacz Andrzej , Kalisz Barbara
Published: December 2022

The size of peat subsidence at Solec peatland (Poland) over 50 years was determined. The field values for subsidence and mineralization were compared with estimates using 20 equations. The subsidence values derived from equations and field measurements were compared to rank the equations. The equations that include a temporal factor (time) were used to forecast subsidence (for the 20, 30 and 40 years after 2016) assuming stable climate conditions and water regime. The annual rate of subsidence ranged from 0.08 to 2.2 cm year−1 (average 1.02 cm year −1). Equation proposed by Jurczuk produced the closest-matching figure (1.03 cm year−1). Applying the same equation to calculate future trends indicates that the rate of soil subsidence will slow down by about 20% to 0.82 cm year−1 in 2056. With the measured peat subsidence rate, the groundwater level (57–72 cm) was estimated and fed into equations to determine the contribution of chemical processes to the total size of subsidence. The applied equations produced identical results, attributing 46% of peat subsidence to chemical (organic matter mineralization) processes and 54%—to physical processes (shrinkage, organic matter consolidation). The belowground changes in soil in relation to groundwater level have been neglected lately, with GHGs emissions being the main focus.
Do Renewable Energy and the Real Estate Market Promote Environmental Quality in South Africa: Evidence from the Bootstrap ARDL Approach
Authors: Jahanger Atif , Balsalobre-Lorente Daniel , Samour Ahmed , Joof Foday , Ali Mumtaz , Tursoy Turgut
Published: December 2022

Recent empirical research indicates that South Africa’s present level of wealth and energy, given its fast-expanding population, is unsustainable. Studies in this domain focus on the impact of economic growth and energy use on environmental quality; the role of the real estate market on environmental quality in South Africa is ignored in the emerging literature. The current study aims to deliver a fresh empirical analysis in this context by analyzing the impact of South Africa’s real estate sector expansion and renewable energy sources on carbon emissions. Using the newly developed “bootstrap autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach”, the results of the empirical investigation showed that renewable energy improves South Africa’s environmental quality. The current research also shows that the South African real estate industry has a negative impact on the environment. According to the current research, South African policymakers should create new regulations for the sustainable real estate sector to improve environmental quality by encouraging the usage of and investment in renewable energy.
Data Driven Modelling and Control Strategies to Improve Biogas Quality and Production from High Solids Anaerobic Digestion: A Mini Review
Authors: Paladino Ombretta
Published: December 2022

Anaerobic Digestion (AD) is one of the oldest processes for producing biofuels from organic waste. Approximately 180 years have passed since the construction of the first modern plant, however, large prospects for improvement are still feasible, especially in regards to the quality and uniformity of the biogas produced. This work focalizes on the main quality issues and the available post-production treatment processes for biogas; subsequently, a mini-review on data-driven models and control strategies for biogas and bio-methane production plants is presented. Attention is focused on High Solids Anaerobic Digesters (HSADs), since these reactors present many interesting advantages, including a high number of operating variables which enable process optimization, high methane concentration in exit, reduced reactor volume and low water requirements. HSADs are the reactors with which Europe is aiming to rapidly increase the production of biogas and bio-methane, in order to carry out de-carbonization and reduce dependence on external methane imports. Crucial points for achieving these objectives include qualitative leaps in process operation and management, which, contrary to current practice in existing plants, require a significant increase in process automation, with control of product quality and reduction of stops due to death of bacteria at changing process parameters (such as temperature and pH). The most significant papers related to biogas quality, data-driven models and control strategies are briefly analyzed.
Defects in Flexible Pavements: A Relationship Assessment of the Defects of a Low-Cost Pavement Management System
Authors: Khahro Shabir
Published: December 2022

Pavement maintenance is a key concern for pavement management authority. Countries (especially developing countries) are facing severe funding challenges regarding maintenance schemes. The existing pavement maintenance methods are goal-specific and lack integration of various indicators that are significant for low-cost PMSs. Thus, this paper investigates the possible defects that may occur in flexible pavements as well as the relationships between different defects. A detailed literature review was conducted to identify all possible defects in flexible pavements and key features considered PMSs. A questionnaire was designed to seek expert opinions on the defects and their possible relationships for a low-cost PMS. The data were collected from 283 experts currently working in pavement management authorities and pavement maintenance schemes. Aggregated mean score, box plotting, and the chi-square test were used to analyze the data. It is concluded that bumps/sags (3.17) are major defects reported by pavement experts in Pakistan, followed by fatigue cracks (3.07). Rutting (2.98) and rut depth (2.98) are the third-ranked key defects reported in this study. Depression (2.96), potholes (2.76), longitudinal crack (2.69), edge crack (2.55), roughness (2.51), and deflection (2.50) are also regular defects in pavement maintenance activities in Pakistan. The results are in an acceptable range of the three-mentioned validation methods. The correlation test results show that most of the defects in structural, functional, safety, and serviceability indicators reject the null hypothesis; thus, there are close relationships between these defects observed in flexible pavements. In the last stage, a PMS model is suggested to assist road management authorities in developing countries to make low-cost decisions for effective pavement rehabilitation.
The Impact of the Aggregate Used on the Possibility of Reducing the Carbon Footprint in Pavement Concrete
Authors: Rudnicki Tomasz
Published: December 2022

The aim of this work was to try to reduce the carbon footprint by means of various types of aggregates which are used for concrete intended for road construction. Four types of aggregates were used in the study: local gravel and dolomite, as well as commonly used granite and amphibolite. Aggregates differed not only in their basic properties, but also in the type of minerals, their origin, and, above all, the distance from the construction site. For the experimental tests, a constant amount of CEM III 42.5 HSR-NA cement, 0/2 mm natural sand, and chemical admixtures based on polycarboxylate and air entrainment were used. For each of the four series, the compressive, flexural, and tensile strength were determined. In order to verify the durability of concrete, the frost resistance in salt and the pore structure in hardened concrete were determined after 150 cycles of freezing and thawing. As a result of the research, it was found that the highest compressive strength was obtained for composition based on amphibolite aggregate. The flexural strength for all series exceeded 5.5 MPa, and the highest tensile strength results were obtained for a composition based on dolomite aggregate. An additional element of the work was the determination of the carbon footprint for each recipe and the comparative analysis. As a result of the analysis, it was possible to reduce the carbon footprint by 32% thanks to the use of CEM III cement instead of CEM I. Additionally, the use of local aggregates located 80 km from the construction site allowed the carbon footprint to be reduced by another 19.2%.
Benefits and Challenges of Making Data More Agile: A Review of Recent Key Approaches in Agriculture
Authors: Serfilippi Elena , Giovannucci Daniele , Ameyaw David , Bansal Ankur , Wobill Thomas Asafua Nketsia , Blankson Roberta , Mishra Rashi
Published: December 2022

Having reliable and timely or ongoing field data from development projects or supply chains is a perennial challenge for decision makers. This is especially true for those operating in rural areas where traditional data gathering and analysis approaches are costly and difficult to operate while typically requiring so much time that their findings are useful mostly as learning after the fact. A series of innovations that we refer to as Agile Data are opening new frontiers of timeliness, cost, and accuracy. They are leveraging a range of technological advances to do so. This paper explores the differences between traditional and agile approaches and offers insights into costs and benefits by drawing on recent field research in agriculture conducted by diverse institutions such as the World Bank (WB), World Food Program (WFP), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Committee on Sustainability Assessment (COSA). The evidence collected in this paper about agile approaches—including those relying on internet and mobile-based data collection—contributes to define a contemporary dimension of data and analytics that can contribute to more optimal decision-making. Providing a theoretical, applied, and empirical foundation for the collection and use of Agile Data can offer a means to improve the management of development initiatives and deliver new value, as participants or beneficiaries are better informed and can better respond to a fast-changing world.
Screening of Raw and Modified Biochars from Food Processing Wastes for the Removal of Phosphates, Nitrates, and Ammonia from Water
Authors: Biliani Styliani E. , Vakros John , Manariotis Ioannis D.
Published: December 2022

The aim of this work was to compare the performance of biochar from various food processing wastes of different origin for the removal of different nutrients from water. Eggshells (EGS), rice husk (RH), and coffee biochars were pyrolyzed at 400 and 800 °C and were examined for the removal of phosphates, nitrates, and ammonia nitrogen. The raw materials were also modified with magnesium chloride in order to investigate their sorption behavior. The highest sorption capacity (qmax) for phosphates and ammonium was observed with EGS pyrolyzed at 800 °C and was 11.45 mg PO43−-P/g and 11.59 mg NH3-N/g, while the highest nitrates sorption capacity was observed with the magnesium-modified RH pyrolyzed at 800 °C (5.24 mg NO3−-N). The modified EGS biochars pyrolyzed at 800 °C had almost the half the sorption capacity for phosphates and nitrates compared to the unmodified materials. The modification of RH pyrolyzed at 800 °C resulted in higher sorption capacity by 34 and 158% for phosphates and ammonium, respectively. The coffee raw and modified biochars were less efficient in nutrient removal compared to the other materials. The specific surface area values of the biochars examined is not a decisive factor for nutrient sorption. The reaction between magnesium and calcium (for the eggshell samples) ions with phosphates is responsible for the higher sorption efficiency. On the other hand, the presence of magnesium and calcium ions has a detrimental effect on the sorption of NH3-N.
Temporal and Spatial Variation of Land Use and Vegetation in the Three–North Shelter Forest Program Area from 2000 to 2020
Authors: Zhang Cong , Yao Xiaojun , Wang Guoyu , Jin Huian , Sha Te , Chu Xinde , Zhang Juan , Cao Juan
Published: December 2022

The Three–North Shelter Forest Program Area (TNSFPA), covering the three subregions of Northwest, North and Northeast China, is an important green ecological barrier in northern China. Research on spatiotemporal variation of land use and vegetation in this area can help us understand the evolution of vegetation recovery. Based on MODIS image data, we built a dataset including land use/cover, annual and seasonal vegetation coverage and vegetation productivity in the TNSFPA from 2000 to 2020, then analyzed their spatiotemporal dynamics’ characteristics and further explored the driving factors. The results demonstrate that 90.05% of land area in the TNSFPA remained unchanged from 2001 to 2020. The area of barren decreased, whereas the area of all other land use types increased. From 2000 to 2020, the vegetation coverage generally presented a spatial pattern of high in the east and low in the west, and the interannual fluctuation of high coverage area was small. More than 90% of the TNSFPA had an increasing vegetation coverage (0.41%·a−1), with the change rates of 0.51%·a−1, 0.54%·a−1 and 0.37%·a−1 in Northeast, North and Northwest China, respectively. The spatial distribution of vegetation productivity was generally consistent with the vegetation coverage, and the interannual fluctuation in areas with low productivity was small. The area with an increasing vegetation productivity (3.41 gC·m−2·a−1) occupied 51.66% of the TNSFPA, mainly in the basic stable state and significantly increased state. The change rates in Northeast, North and Northwest China were 7.34 gC·m−2·a−1, 6.72 gC·m−2·a−1 and 2.10 gC·m−2·a−1, respectively. The vegetation coverage and productivity were positively correlated with climate factors, and the correlation with precipitation is significantly higher than that with temperature. The ecological protection and restoration activities in the TNSFPA have accelerated the recovery of the vegetation ecosystem. Meanwhile, the rapid growth of population has led to the acceleration of urbanization. The intensification of the interaction between humans and land has led to the reclamation and development of barren, which has a great impact on the small–scale vegetation ecosystem.
The Greater the Contact, the Closer the Threat: The Influence of Contact with Nature on the Social Perception of Biodiversity Loss and the Effectiveness of Conservation Behaviours
Authors: Bosone Lucia , Bertoldo Raquel
Published: December 2022

The public awareness of biodiversity loss is growing; however, citizens still engage in behaviours that are harmful to ecosystems, such as buying products shipped from across the world. Exploring the public’s understanding of biodiversity loss is fundamental to promoting behavioural change. To this purpose, we carried out two studies to test whether the psychological distance of biodiversity loss influences citizens’ shared ideas about biodiversity, depending on individuals’ contact with nature, and how this can influence conservation behaviours. Study 1 (n = 261) demonstrated that the public’s shared ideas are organised around two axes, one relating to psychological distance and contact with nature, and one concerning the level of specificity of the terms used. Study 2 (n = 178) confirmed that the perception of biodiversity loss as a distant threat is related to weaker engagement in pro-environmental behaviours. The findings are discussed in terms of their innovative theoretical contributions and their potential practical implications.
Quintuple Helix Innovation Model for the European Union Defense Industry—An Empirical Research
Authors: Reis João , Rosado David Pascoal , Ribeiro Diogo Freitas , Melão Nuno
Published: December 2022

The European defense industry is undergoing profound upheavals, and traditional innovation models may no longer be adequate. For this reason, further investigation is needed to know if the triple helix (TH) is suitable for one of the most influential industries in the world. If not suitable, it is necessary to identify which type of n-helices are appropriate. This article follows an embedded case study research strategy that uses several sources of data collection such as interviews with active-duty military personnel, scholars, the defense industry, and interagency professionals. Field notes and official documentation were also collected for corroboration and triangulation purposes. The results showed that the defense industry is increasingly globalized, leaving the national sphere and weakening the action and participation of European Union governments. This research resulted in the design of a quintuple helix innovation model for the defense industry, which was based on a TH combined with technology and the natural environment. We concluded that the traditional TH may not be adequate for the entry of new supranational players and that political contributions are subject to a further response by the European states. Scientific research is also needed, especially in Asian and American countries, which have national defense policies different from those of Europe.
Numerical Simulation on Pillar Design for Longwall Mining under Weak Immediate Roof and Floor Strata in Indonesia
Authors: Hashikawa Hiroto , Mao Pisith , Sasaoka Takashi , Hamanaka Akihiro , Shimada Hideki , Batsaikhan Ulaankhuu , Oya Jiro
Published: December 2022

In Indonesia, the adoption of the underground coal mining method is discussed to extend coal production. However, the geological conditions in Indonesia are very weak. In particular, the mechanical properties of the immediate roof/floor in shallow depths are weaker than those of coal. Therefore, the control measures to maintain stability around the developing area should be discussed for safe longwall mining operations. This study discusses the design of safety pillar width in longwall mining under weak geological conditions by using FLAC3D. The study reveals that the conventional equations for the determination of the pillar width, i.e., Obert-Duvall, Holland-Gaddy, and Bieniawski equations, can be adopted to maintain the stability of the pillar itself but are not suitable for the stability of the longwall face because of the influence of the extracted neighboring panels. Additionally, the increase of the pillar width can significantly reduce the fracture zone around the longwall face. Also, increasing the setting load of the powered support can slightly improve the stability. In the pillar design, both the pillar strength and the stability of the longwall face under weak geological conditions need to be considered.
Research on Spatial Scale of Fluctuation for the Uncertain Thermal Parameters of Artificially Frozen Soil
Authors: Wang Tao , Cao Jiazeng , Pei Xiangjun , Hong Zequn , Liu Yaohui , Zhou Guoqing
Published: December 2022

The scales of fluctuation of uncertain thermal parameters are the key to evaluating the spatial variability of artificially frozen soil, and it can directly affect the thermal engineering analysis of artificial frozen walls. In this study, the thermal conductivity, heat capacity, and thermal diffusivity at different temperatures (from −2.0 °C to 0 °C) are tested. Then the vertical and horizontal scales of fluctuation for the uncertain thermal parameters are estimated on the basis of the spatial recurrence method, curve fitting method, and correlation function method. A computational formula of the oblique fluctuation scale for the uncertain thermal parameters is proposed, and the oblique fluctuation scale for different angles is calculated and analyzed. The results show that the scales of fluctuation of uncertain thermal parameters calculated by the three methods are slightly different. The oblique fluctuation scale is larger than the vertical fluctuation scale, but is smaller than the horizontal fluctuation scale. The scales of fluctuation of uncertain thermal parameters are varied, and it is related to the temperature, water content, density, and depth. The results of the scale of fluctuation of uncertain thermal parameters in different directions reflect the spatial variability of artificially frozen soil, which has important reference significance for stochastic thermal analysis of artificial frozen engineering.