bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Efficient Method for Infrared and Visual Images Fusion Based on Visual Attention Technique
Authors: Liu Yaochen , Dong Lili , Chen Yang , Xu Wenhai
Published: March 2020

Infrared and visible image fusion technology provides many benefits for human vision and computer image processing tasks, including enriched useful information and enhanced surveillance capabilities. However, existing fusion algorithms have faced a great challenge to effectively integrate visual features from complex source images. In this paper, we design a novel infrared and visible image fusion algorithm based on visual attention technology, in which a special visual attention system and a feature fusion strategy based on the saliency maps are proposed. Special visual attention system first utilizes the co-occurrence matrix to calculate the image texture complication, which can select a particular modality to compute a saliency map. Moreover, we improved the iterative operator of the original visual attention model (VAM), a fair competition mechanism is designed to ensure that the visual feature in detail regions can be extracted accurately. For the feature fusion strategy, we use the obtained saliency map to combine the visual attention features, and appropriately enhance the tiny features to ensure that the weak targets can be observed. Different from the general fusion algorithm, the proposed algorithm not only preserve the interesting region but also contain rich tiny details, which can improve the visual ability of human and computer. Moreover, experimental results in complicated ambient conditions show that the proposed algorithm in this paper outperforms state-of-the-art algorithms in both qualitative and quantitative evaluations, and this study can extend to the field of other-type image fusion.
Simulation Study for Designing a Dedicated Cardiac TOF-PET System
Authors: Oliver Sandra , Moliner Laura , Ilisie Víctor , Benlloch J.M. , Rodríguez-Álvarez M.J.
Published: March 2020

The development of dedicated positron emission tomography scanners is an active area of research, especially aiming at the improvement of lesion detection and in support of cancer treatment and management. Recently, dedicated Positron Emission Tomography (PET) systems with different configurations for specific organs have been developed for improving detection effectiveness. Open geometries are always subject to distortion and artifacts in the reconstructed images. Therefore, the aim of this work is to determine the optimal geometry for a novel cardiac PET system that will be developed by our team, and determine the time resolution needed to achieve reasonable image quality for the chosen geometry. The proposed geometries consist of 36 modules. These modules are arranged in two sets of two plates, each one with different configurations. We performed Monte Carlo simulations with different TOF resolutions, in order to test the image quality improvement in each case. Our results show, as expected, that increasing TOF resolution reduces distortion and artifact effects. We can conclude that a TOF resolution of the order of 200 ps is needed to reduce the artifacts, to acceptable levels, generated in the simulated cardiac-PET open geometries.
Wind Profiling in the Lower Atmosphere from Wind-Induced Perturbations to Multirotor UAS
Authors: González-Rocha Javier , De Wekker Stephan F. J. , Ross Shane D. , Woolsey Craig A.
Published: March 2020

We present a model-based approach to estimate the vertical profile of horizontal wind velocity components using motion perturbations of a multirotor unmanned aircraft system (UAS) in both hovering and steady ascending flight. The state estimation framework employed for wind estimation was adapted to a set of closed-loop rigid body models identified for an off-the-shelf quadrotor. The quadrotor models used for wind estimation were characterized for hovering and steady ascending flight conditions ranging between 0 and 2 m/s. The closed-loop models were obtained using system identification algorithms to determine model structures and estimate model parameters. The wind measurement method was validated experimentally above the Virginia Tech Kentland Experimental Aircraft Systems Laboratory by comparing quadrotor and independent sensor measurements from a sonic anemometer and two SoDAR instruments. Comparison results demonstrated quadrotor wind estimation in close agreement with the independent wind velocity measurements. However, horizontal wind velocity profiles were difficult to validate using time-synchronized SoDAR measurements. Analysis of the noise intensity and signal-to-noise ratio of the SoDARs proved that close-proximity quadrotor operations can corrupt wind measurement from SoDARs, which has not previously been reported.
Prognosis of Water Quality Sensors Using Advanced Data Analytics: Application to the Barcelona Drinking Water Network
Authors: Garcia Diego , Puig Vicenç , Quevedo Joseba
Published: March 2020

Water Utilities (WU) are responsible for supplying water for residential, commercial and industrial use guaranteeing the sanitary and quality standards established by different regulations. To assure the satisfaction of such standards a set of quality sensors that monitor continuously the Water Distribution System (WDS) are used. Unfortunately, those sensors require continuous maintenance in order to guarantee their right and reliable operation. In order to program the maintenance of those sensors taking into account the health state of the sensor, a prognosis system should be deployed. Moreover, before proceeding with the prognosis of the sensors, the data provided with those sensors should be validated using data from other sensors and models. This paper provides an advanced data analytics framework that will allow us to diagnose water quality sensor faults and to detect water quality events. Moreover, a data-driven prognosis module will be able to assess the sensitivity degradation of the chlorine sensors estimating the remaining useful life (RUL), taking into account uncertainty quantification, that allows us to program the maintenance actions based on the state of health of sensors instead on a regular basis. The fault and event detection module is based on a methodology that combines time and spatial models obtained from historical data that are integrated with a discrete-event system and are able to distinguish between a quality event or a sensor fault. The prognosis module analyses the quality sensor time series forecasting the degradation and therefore providing a predictive maintenance plan avoiding unsafe situations in the WDS.
A Flexible Film Bulk Acoustic Resonator Based on β-Phase Polyvinylidene Fluoride Polymer
Authors: Wu Ting , Jin Hao , Dong Shurong , Xuan Weipeng , Xu Hongsheng , Lu Leihe , Fang Zijing , Huang Shuyi , Tao Xiang , Shi Lin , Liu Shuting , Luo Jikui
Published: March 2020

This paper reports a novel flexible film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR) based on β -phase polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) piezoelectric polymer. The proposed device was simulated and evaluated; then, a low-temperature photolithography process with a double exposure method was developed to pattern the electrodes for the device, which enabled the device to retain the piezoelectric properties of the β -phase PVDF film. Results showed that the β-phase PVDF FBARs had a resonant frequency round 9.212 MHz with a high electromechanical coupling coefficient ( k 2 ) of 12.76% ± 0.56%. The device performed well over a wide bending-strain range up to 2400 μ ε owing to its excellent flexibility. It showed good stability as a strain sensor with a sensitivity of 80 Hz / μ ε , and no visible deterioration was observed after cyclic bending tests. The PVDF FBAR also exhibited an exceptionally large temperature coefficient of frequency (TCF) of −4630 ppm / K , two orders of magnitude larger than those of other FBARs based on common inorganic piezoelectric materials, extraordinarily high sensitivity for temperature sensing. All results showed that β -phase PVDF FBARs have the potential to expand the application scope for future flexible electronics.
Comparison of Different Commercial Conducting Materials as Ion-to-Electron Transducer Layers in Low-Cost Selective Solid-Contact Electrodes
Authors: Ocaña C. , Muñoz-Correas M. , Abramova N. , Bratov A.
Published: March 2020

Simple, robust, sensitive and low-cost all-solid-state ion-selective electrodes (SCISEs) are of interest in different fields, such as medicine, veterinary, water treatment, food control, environmental and pollution monitoring, security, etc. as a replacement for traditional ion-selective electrodes with liquid inner contact. In spite of their potential advantages, SCISEs remain mainly in the research laboratories. With the motivation of developing simple and low-cost SCISEs with possible commercial applications, we report a comparison study of six different commercial conducting materials, namely, polypyrrole-block-polycaprolactone (PPy-b-PCaprol), graphene/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) ink, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polyethylenglycol (PEDOT:PEG), high conductivity PEDOT:PSS, polyethylenimine (PEI) with PEDOT:PSS for their possible use as ion-to-electron transducer in polyurethane based pH-SCISEs. Among all studied pH-SCISES, PEDOT:PEG based electrodes exhibited the best results in terms of sensitivity, reproducibility and lifetime. Finally, these sensors were tested in different real samples showing good accuracy.
An Octagonal Ring-shaped Parasitic Resonator Based Compact Ultrawideband Antenna for Microwave Imaging Applications
Authors: Hossain Amran , Islam Mohammad Tariqul , Almutairi Ali F. , Singh Mandeep Singh Jit , Mat Kamarulzaman , Samsuzzaman Md.
Published: March 2020

An Ultrawideband (UWB) octagonal ring-shaped parasitic resonator-based patch antenna for microwave imaging applications is presented in this study, which is constructed with a diamond-shaped radiating patch, three octagonal, rectangular slotted ring-shaped parasitic resonator elements, and partial slotting ground plane. The main goals of uses of parasitic ring-shaped elements are improving antenna performance. In the prototype, various kinds of slots on the ground plane were investigated, and especially rectangular slots and irregular zigzag slots are applied to enhance bandwidth, gain, efficiency, and radiation directivity. The optimized size of the antenna is 29 × 24 × 1.5 mm3 by using the FR-4 substrate. The overall results illustrate that the antenna has a bandwidth of 8.7 GHz (2.80–11.50 GHz) for the reflection coefficient S11 < −10 dB with directional radiation pattern. The maximum gain of the proposed prototype is more than 5.7 dBi, and the average efficiency over the radiating bandwidth is 75%. Different design modifications are performed to attain the most favorable outcome of the proposed antenna. However, the prototype of the proposed antenna is designed and simulated in the 3D simulator CST Microwave Studio 2018 and then effectively fabricated and measured. The investigation throughout the study of the numerical as well as experimental data explicit that the proposed antenna is appropriate for the Ultrawideband-based microwave-imaging fields.
Energy-Efficient Protocol of Link Scheduling in Cognitive Radio Body Area Networks for Medical and Healthcare Applications
Authors: Le Thien Thi Thanh , Moh Sangman
Published: March 2020

Wireless body area networks (WBANs) have become a new paradigm for electronic healthcare applications; for instance, they are used to efficiently monitor patients in real-time. In this paper, an energy-efficient link scheduling (ELS) protocol for cognitive radio body area networks (CRBANs) is proposed, which aims to minimize energy consumption in CRBANs, while achieving higher probabilities of successful transmissions with multiple CRBANs. The proposed ELS transmits packets in the common control channel to control transmission links amongst CRBANs to the gateway and vice versa. The transmissions of CRBANs to the gateway are scheduled at a specific time by the gateway in different data channels, according to the traffic priority of CRBANs. Packet delivery ratio, delay, and energy consumption are evaluated for multiple CRBANs via extensive simulation.
A Dynamic Plane Prediction Method Using the Extended Frame in Smart Dust IoT Environments
Authors: Park Joonsuu , Park KeeHyun
Published: March 2020

Internet of Things (IoT) technologies are undeniably already all around us, as we stand at the cusp of the next generation of IoT technologies. Indeed, the next-generation of IoT technologies are evolving before IoT technologies have been fully adopted, and smart dust IoT technology is one such example. The concept of smart dust IoT technology, which features very small devices with low computing power, is a revolutionary and innovative concept that enables many things that were previously unimaginable, but at the same time creates unresolved problems. One of the biggest problems is the bottlenecks in data transmission that can be caused by this large number of devices. The bottleneck problem was solved with the Dual Plane Development Kit (DPDK) architecture. However, the DPDK solution created an unexpected new problem, which is called the mixed packet problem. The mixed packet problem, which occurs when a large number of data packets and control packets mix and change at a rapid rate, can slow a system significantly. In this paper, we propose a dynamic partitioning algorithm that solves the mixed packet problem by physically separating the planes and using a learning algorithm to determine the ratio of separated planes. In addition, we propose a training data model eXtended Permuted Frame (XPF) that innovatively increases the number of training data to reflect the packet characteristics of the system. By solving the mixed packet problem in this way, it was found that the proposed dynamic partitioning algorithm performed about 72% better than the general DPDK environment, and 88% closer to the ideal environment.
Integrating Software Engineering Processes in the Development of Efficient Intrusion Detection Systems in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Almomani Iman , Alromi Afnan
Published: March 2020

Applying Software Engineering (SE) processes is vital to critical and complex systems including security and networking systems. Nowadays, Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) and their applications are found in many military and civilian systems which make them attractive to security attackers. The increasing risks and system vulnerabilities of WSNs have encouraged researchers and developers to propose many security solutions including software-based Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs). The main drawbacks of current IDSs are due to the lack of clear, structured software development processes. Unfortunately, a substantial gap has been observed between WSN and SE research communities. Integrating SE and WSNs is an emerging topic that will be expanded as technology evolves and spreads in all life aspects. Consequently, this paper highlighted the importance of Requirement Engineering, Software Design, and Testing when developing IDSs for WSNs. Three software IDS designs were proposed in this study: Scheduling, Broadcast, and Watchdog designs. The three designs were compared in terms of consumed energy and network lifetime. Although the same IDS approach was used, but, by highlighting the design phase and implementing different designs, the network lifetime was increased by 73.6% and the consumed energy was reduced by 20% in some of the designs. This is a clear indication of how following a proper SE process could affect the performance of the IDS in WSN. Moreover, conclusions were drawn in regard to applying software engineering processes to IDSs to deliver the required functionalities, with respect to operational constraints, with an improved performance, accuracy and reliability.
The Impact of Ambient Fine Particulate Matter on Consumer Expenditures
Authors: Jung Hojin
Published: March 2020

Airborne particulate matter suspended from industrial facilities, power plants, and automobiles is detrimental to health. Growing concerns about the increasing level of airborne particulate matter have led many industrialized nations to advocate for the transformation of the energy market and investment in sustainable energy products. At the other end, consumers have made individual adjustments and attempted to reduce the exposure to the particulate matter. In this paper, we focus on the effect of ambient air pollution on consumer expenditures based on scanner panel data on consumers’ debit and credit card transactions. A series of empirical analyses found robust evidence that the increased level of particulate matter led to considerable disruption in total consumer expenditures with significant heterogeneity across categories. Our findings suggest that consumers alter their spending behaviors in an attempt to reduce the risk of exposures to particulate matter. Such an estimated effect of air pollution is qualitatively different from those of other macroeconomic factors and provides important guidance for policy interventions and practical decisions aimed at sustaining economic growth.
Influence in Technological Innovation Spaces: A Network Science Approach to Understand Innovation for Sustainability in the Global South
Authors: Schmitt Daniel , Muyoya Chisenga
Published: March 2020

The number of scholars working on transition concepts in the Global South is rapidly increasing. In this context, a substantial amount of research output particularly focusses on niches and how they affect transition towards sustainability in a wider framework of the multi-level-perspective. At the same time, there is a growing interest in digital technology and its effect on sustainability challenges. In this article, we combine the two fields, and by utilizing social media data, we create an innovative network science approach to analyze the production environment of digital innovations in Africa. We focus on three innovation hubs that we conceptualize as niches and innovation intermediaries that not only create communities to develop, test and implement new technology but also function as networks to discuss and form new ideas around innovations. Our key findings show how local communities are embedded in larger innovation structures. The connections between local stakeholders and global actors are predominantly created through bridge actors, who hold key positions in their communities. With tools from network science, we demonstrate that these linking elements can regulate and steer discussions and therefore, strongly influence digital niche environments. Utilizing geographical location data, we can also see that the online space of technological innovations in Africa is heavily cantered in urban areas.
Summer Outdoor Thermal Comfort in Urban Commercial Pedestrian Streets in Severe Cold Regions of China
Authors: Zhu Zheng , Liang Jing , Sun Cheng , Han Yunsong
Published: March 2020

This paper investigates outdoor thermal comfort in summer in commercial pedestrian streets in Harbin, using meteorological measurements and questionnaire surveys (1013 valid questionnaires). The results demonstrate that: (1) Thermal sensation has a lower range in an outdoor environment with smaller sky view factor (SVF) and less fluctuation, while the thermal sensation vote (TSV) range is more dispersed in an outdoor environment with larger SVF and more fluctuation; (2) In the urban, high-density commercial districts in Harbin, the air temperature and solar radiation have a greater influence on outdoor thermal sensation, while wind speed has less of an influence, and residents in areas with less fluctuations are more sensitive to air temperature and solar radiation; (3) The universal thermal climate index (UTCI) can accurately evaluate outdoor thermal comfort in Harbin in summer, with a neutral UTCI value of 19.3 °C and a range from 15.6 to 23.0 °C; (4) The actual acceptable thermal range is 16.8–29.3 °C, and this takes into account the psychological adaptation of the residents, which provides a more practical reference value; (5) With reference to the psychological adaptation, the outdoor thermal sensation of residents in early summer is about 0.5 TSV higher than that in late summer. These results provide a theoretical basis and a technical reference for the design of commercial pedestrian streets in severe cold regions.
A Voluntary Simplicity Lifestyle: Values, Adoption, Practices and Effects
Authors: Osikominu Jessica , Bocken Nancy
Published: March 2020

Adopting a voluntary simplicity lifestyle (VSL) contributes to a change in consumption patterns towards more sustainable ones, which is urgently needed. This study defines the VSL as a voluntary reduction of income and consumption in exchange for more free time. Our research aims to contribute with more detailed VSL criteria. A literature review develops initial VSL criteria, which are validated against and enriched by data gathered through in-depth interviews with nine voluntary simplicity practitioners. This study contributes with: (1) more detailed insights into the value changes during lifestyle adoption of a VSL, (2) a detailed perspective on significant aspects in VSL adoption as well as how they tend to happen in sequence, and (3) insight into how consumption reduces or changes and how free time is spent when adopting a VSL. A conceptual framework for more detailed VSL criteria, as proposed in this study, is valuable to characterise the VSL lifestyle and differentiate it from other lifestyles. In sum, the study contributes to clearer perspectives on the VSL and provides detailed VSL criteria. Finally, we reaffirm the potential of VSL to contribute toward changing dominant unsustainable consumption patterns and indicate directions for future research.
Consumer Perception of Online Attributes in Circular Economy Activities
Authors: Stein Nicole , Spinler Stefan , Vanthournout Helga , Blass Vered
Published: March 2020

Businesses like Airbnb have shown that a successful circular economy (CE) business can operate exclusively online. Although online communication and web appearance attributes have been subject to academic research given accelerated digitization, there is still a lack of knowledge about online attributes and their role in facilitating CE. We close the portrayed knowledge gap by conducting a discrete-choice experiment with best to worst scaling and focusing on the effect of CE experience on the perception of a CE website by ranking nine online attributes, grouped in three subsets. We therefore contribute by identifying online attributes that are perceived as favorable for CE businesses and detect how participation in CE activities affects the perception of these attributes. We find that third-party associated online attributes (e.g., user reviews or third-party guarantees) rank significantly higher throughout CE consumption patterns of the sample, being always amongst the top three attributes. This novel finding on online preferences opens a new direction for further research, as well as allows practitioners to optimize online operations accordingly. Furthermore, we find that users without prior touchpoints with CE have a higher need for information about the business model as compared to CE active users who are more interested in community related attributes.
Discrete Symmetry Group Approach for Numerical Solution of the Heat Equation
Authors: Bibi Khudija , Feroze Tooba
Published: March 2020

In this article, an invariantized finite difference scheme to find the solution of the heat equation, is developed. The scheme is based on a discrete symmetry transformation. A comparison of the results obtained by the proposed scheme and the Crank Nicolson method is carried out with reference to the exact solutions. It is found that the proposed invariantized scheme for the heat equation improves the efficiency and accuracy of the existing Crank Nicolson method.
In-Vitro Cell Culture for Efficient Assessment of Mycotoxin Exposure, Toxicity and Risk Mitigation
Authors: Xu Ran , Karrow Niel A. , Shandilya Umesh K. , Sun Lv-hui , Kitazawa Haruki
Published: March 2020

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary fungal metabolites that commonly contaminate crops and food by-products and thus, animal feed. Ingestion of mycotoxins can lead to mycotoxicosis in both animals and humans, and at subclinical concentrations may affect animal production and adulterate feed and animal by-products. Mycotoxicity mechanisms of action (MOA) are largely unknown, and co-contamination, which is often the case, raises the likelihood of mycotoxin interactions. Mitigation strategies for reducing the risk of mycotoxicity are diverse and may not necessarily provide protection against all mycotoxins. These factors, as well as the species-specific risk of toxicity, collectively make an assessment of exposure, toxicity, and risk mitigation very challenging and costly; thus, in-vitro cell culture models provide a useful tool for their initial assessment. Since ingestion is the most common route of mycotoxin exposure, the intestinal epithelial barrier comprised of epithelial cells (IECs) and immune cells such as macrophages, represents ground zero where mycotoxins are absorbed, biotransformed, and elicit toxicity. This article aims to review different in-vitro IEC or co-culture models that can be used for assessing mycotoxin exposure, toxicity, and risk mitigation, and their suitability and limitations for the safety assessment of animal foods and food by-products.
Evaluation of Current Equine Influenza Vaccination Protocols Prior to Shipment, Guided by OIE Standards
Authors: Cullinane Ann , Gahan Jacinta , Walsh Cathal , Nemoto Manabu , Entenfellner Johanna , Olguin-Perglione Cecilia , Garvey Marie , Huang Fu Tao Qi , Venner Monica , Yamanaka Takashi , Barrandeguy María , Fernandez Charlene Judith
Published: March 2020

To facilitate the temporary importation of horses for competition and racing purposes, with a minimum risk of transmitting equine influenza, the World Organisation for Animal Health (Office International des Epizooties, or OIE), formally engaged in a public–private partnership with the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) and the International Federation for Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) to establish, within the context of existing OIE standards, a science-based rationale to identify the ideal time period for equine influenza vaccination prior to shipment. Field trials using vaccines based on different technologies were carried out on three continents. The antibody response post-booster vaccination at intervals aligned with the different rules/recommendations of the OIE, FEI, and IFHA, was monitored by single radial haemolysis. It was determined that 14 days was the optimum period necessary to allow horses adequate time to respond to booster vaccination and for horses that have previously received four or more doses of vaccine and are older than four years, it is adequate to allow vaccination within 180 days of shipment. In contrast, the results indicate that there is a potential benefit to younger (four years old or younger) horses in requiring booster vaccination within 90 days of shipment, consistent with the current OIE standard.
Trends of Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) Reports of Human Papillomavirus Vaccine in the Valencian Community—Spain (2008–2018)
Authors: Egoavil Cecilia M. , Tuells José , Carreras Juan José , Montagud Emilia , Pastor-Villalba Eliseo , Caballero Pablo , Nolasco Andreu
Published: March 2020

Vaccine safety surveillance is essential in vaccination programs. We accomplished a descriptive study of surveillance AEFI-reporting rate in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine administered in the Valencian Community, Spain. Data were obtained from Spanish Pharmacovigilance Adverse Reactions Data (FEDRA). Reporting rates were calculated using local net doses distributed as the denominator. Trends were assessed using joinpoint regression with annual percent change (APC) reported. The AEFI-reports decreased between 2008 and 2018 in two periods, a fast decreasing rate from 2009 to 2011 (from 192.2 to 24.93 per 100000 doses; APC, −54.9%; 95%CI [−75.2; −17.7]), followed by a stable trend (−13% APC, 95%CI [−26.1; 2.4]). For the age group analysis, only the group aged 14–15 years old followed the same trend with -58.4% (95%CI [−73.9; −33.8]) APC during 2008–2011, and −8.8% (95%CI [−27.7; 15]) APC during 2011-2018. The majority of the reports (73.82%) were nonserious, involving reactions at or near the vaccination site, headache, and dizziness events. No death was reported. AEFI-reporting rates for HPV immunization in the Valencian Community have decreased considerably with two trend periods observed for girls aged 14–15 years old. Currently, the AEFI reporting rate shows a decreasing trend, perhaps following the Weber effect, and it could also be affected by media attention and coverage.
Exploring the Mental Model of Cattle Farmers in Disease Prevention and Control Practices
Authors: Suit-B Yong , Hassan Latiffah , Krauss Steven Eric , Ramanoon Siti Zubaidah , Ooi Peck Toung , Yasmin Abd Rahaman , Epstein Jonathan
Published: March 2020

Farmers play an integral role in minimizing disease threats and managing ongoing diseases on their farms. Various environmental factors influence the decision-making processes of farmers. Deciphering the mental models of farmers allows us to understand the motivations and reasons behind disease prevention and control choices. This study aimed to explore the mental models of cattle farmers in implementing disease prevention and control practices. Using qualitative in-depth, semi-structured interviews, seven cattle farmers from a university’s foster farm extension program were sampled. Interview transcripts were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Results revealed 23 dimensions comprising the mental model of cattle farmers. The dimensions were conceptualized under four major themes. Farmers were most influenced by perceived risk of disease, perceived effectiveness and benefits of disease prevention and control practices, experience, knowledge and emotions, subjective norms and perceived economic loss. The decision-making processes of farmers are complex and are influenced by various factors. While additional research is needed to confirm the findings using quantitative methods and larger sample sizes, insights gained from the study can be used as inputs to tailor communication and training strategies for improved disease prevention and control interventions.
Effects of Hydraulic Retention Time and Influent Nitrate-N Concentration on Nitrogen Removal and the Microbial Community of an Aerobic Denitrification Reactor Treating Recirculating Marine Aquaculture System Effluent
Authors: Song Xiefa , Yang Xiaohan , Hallerman Eric , Jiang Yuli , Huang Zhitao
Published: March 2020

The effects of hydraulic retention time (HRT) and influent nitrate-N concentration on nitrogen removal and the microbial community composition of an aerobic denitrification reactor treating recirculating marine aquaculture system effluent were evaluated. Results showed that over 98% of nitrogen was removed and ammonia-N and nitrite-N levels were below 1 mg/L when influent nitrate-N was below 150 mg/L and HRT over 5 h. The maximum nitrogen removal efficiency and nitrogen removal rate were observed at HRT of 6 or 7 h when influent nitrate-N was 150 mg/L. High-throughput DNA sequencing analysis revealed that the microbial phyla Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes were predominant in the reactor, with an average relative total abundance above 70%. The relative abundance of denitrifying bacteria of genera Halomonas and Denitratisoma within the reactor decreased with increasing influent nitrate-N concentrations. Our results show the presence of an aerobically denitrifying microbial consortium with both expected and unexpected members, many of them relatively new to science. Our findings provide insights into the biological workings and inform the design and operation of denitrifying reactors for marine aquaculture systems.
Freshwater Reptile Persistence and Conservation in Cities: Insights from Species Occurrence Records
Authors: Turak Eren , Bush Alex , Dela-Cruz Jocelyn , Powell Megan
Published: March 2020

Reptiles are rarely included in urban freshwater biodiversity monitoring and conservation. We explored the global persistence of freshwater dependent turtles, lizards, crocodilians and snakes in cities with a population greater than 100,000 using species occurrence data in online databases from a five-year period (2013–2018). We then used ecological niche models to help identify the locations of suitable habitats for three freshwater reptile species in Sydney, Australia. Our Global analysis showed that sightings of a majority of known species of crocodilians and freshwater turtles were recorded in databases within this 5-year period in contrast to about one in three freshwater lizard species and one in ten freshwater snake species and that freshwater reptiles were observed within 50 km of the center of 40% of the 3525 cities. While global databases hold substantial recent species occurrence records for some regions, they contain very little data for large parts of the world. Modelling showed that potential suitable habitat for the three freshwater species in Sydney was distributed across areas with different levels of urban development. The persistence of populations of freshwater reptiles in and around a large proportion of the world’s cities show that this group can play an important role in urban biodiversity conservation.
Coupling SWAT Model and CMB Method for Modeling of High-Permeability Bedrock Basins Receiving Interbasin Groundwater Flow
Authors: Senent-Aparicio Javier , Alcalá Francisco J. , Liu Sitian , Jimeno-Sáez Patricia
Published: March 2020

This paper couples the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model and the chloride mass balance (CMB) method to improve the modeling of streamflow in high-permeability bedrock basins receiving interbasin groundwater flow (IGF). IGF refers to the naturally occurring groundwater flow beneath a topographic divide, which indicates that baseflow simulated by standard hydrological models may be substantially less than its actual magnitude. Identification and quantification of IGF is so difficult that most hydrological models use convenient simplifications to ignore it, leaving us with minimal knowledge of strategies to quantify it. The Castril River basin (CRB) was chosen to show this problematic and to propose the CMB method to assess the magnitude of the IGF contribution to baseflow. In this headwater area, which has null groundwater exploitation, the CMB method shows that yearly IGF hardly varies and represents about 51% of mean yearly baseflow. Based on this external IGF appraisal, simulated streamflow was corrected to obtain a reduction in the percent bias of the SWAT model, from 52.29 to 22.40. Corrected simulated streamflow was used during the SWAT model calibration and validation phases. The Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) coefficient and the logarithmic values of NSE (lnNSE) were used for overall SWAT model performance. For calibration and validation, monthly NSE was 0.77 and 0.80, respectively, whereas daily lnNSE was 0.81 and 0.64, respectively. This methodological framework, which includes initial system conceptualization and a new formulation, provides a reproducible way to deal with similar basins, the baseflow component of which is strongly determined by IGF.
Development of a Hydrological Boundary Method for the River–Lake Transition Zone Based on Flow Velocity Gradients, and Case Study of Baiyangdian Lake Transition Zones, China
Authors: Tian Kai , Yang Wei , Zhao Yan-wei , Yin Xin-an , Cui Bao-shan , Yang Zhi-feng
Published: March 2020

The river–lake transition zone is affected by many environmental factors, leading to significant dynamics and complexity. This makes the boundary unclear, and not enough attention has been paid to this problem by scholars, even though it has great significance for research on water quantity, water quality, and the aquatic environment. In this paper, we define this transition zone, define its upper and lower boundaries, and develop the method for defining the hydrologic boundary. It includes a method for defining the upper boundary, based on the flow velocity mutation point, and a method for defining the lower boundary, based on the velocity gradient field. We then used this approach to examine the transition zones between the Fu River, Baigou Canal, and Baiyangdian Lake in China as a case study. We found that the upper boundary of the Fu River–Baiyangdian Lake transition zone was 2.35 km upstream of the lake’s inlet; the lower boundary was farthest from the lake’s inlet in July, and the maximum area of the transition zone was 2.603 km2. The lower boundary was closest to the lake’s inlet in March, when the minimum area was 1.598 km2. The upper boundary of the Baigou Canal–Baiyangdian Lake transition zone was 2.18 km upstream from the lake inlet, and the lower boundary was farthest from the lake’s inlet in August, when the maximum area was 2.762 km2. The lower boundary was closest to the lake’s inlet in April, when the minimum area was 0.901 km2.
Intelligent Wide-Area Water Quality Monitoring and Analysis System Exploiting Unmanned Surface Vehicles and Ensemble Learning
Authors: Cao Huiru , Guo Zhongwei , Wang Shian , Cheng Haixiu , Zhan Choujun
Published: March 2020

Water environment pollution is an acute problem, especially in developing countries, so water quality monitoring is crucial for water protection. This paper presents an intelligent three-dimensional wide-area water quality monitoring and online analysis system. The proposed system is composed of an automatic cruise intelligent unmanned surface vehicle (USV), a water quality monitoring system (WQMS), and a water quality analysis algorithm. An automatic positioning cruising system is constructed for the USV. The WQMS consists of a series of low-power water quality detecting sensors and a lifting device that can collect the water quality monitoring data at different water depths. These data are analyzed by the proposed water quality analysis algorithm based on the ensemble learning method to estimate the water quality level. Then, a real experiment is conducted in a lake to verify the feasibility of the proposed design. The experimental results obtained in real application demonstrate good performance and feasibility of the proposed monitoring system.
Real-World Driving Cycles Adaptability of Electric Vehicles
Authors: Sun Zhicheng , Wen Zui , Zhao Xin , Yang Yunpeng , Li Su
Published: March 2020

Electric vehicles (EVs) include battery electric vehicles (BEVs), fuel-cell vehicles (FCVs) and fuel-cell hybrid electric vehicles (FCHEVs). The performance of vehicles is usually evaluated using standardized driving cycle tests; however, the results from standardized driving cycle tests deviate from the real-world driving cycle. In order to test the adaptability of EVs to real-world driving cycles, conditions of three typical routes in Tianjin are collected and their characteristics analyzed; then BEV and FCV models are created based on a type of FCHEV to simulate 0–100 km/h acceleration and cruising performance under a real-world driving cycle; finally, a motor bench is used to test the performance of FCHEV under the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle). After the adaptability of the three models to real-world driving cycle is compared based on the simulation and test results, it is found that FCHEV can recycle braking energy and has quick dynamic response, which can be well adapted to the real-world driving cycle.
Primary chemical current sources in power supply systems of reentry vehicles
Authors: NOSKIN German V. , KHARAGEZOV Evgeny I , KHAVANOV Egor S. , BESCHASTNIY Roman A.
Published: March 2020

The paper discusses key operational features of the power supply system in reentry vehicles, including those of manned spacecraft. It identifies the reentry vehicle modes, which drive the requirements for the power supply system parameters. It provides an analysis of primary chemical current sources as compared with some secondary ones, taking into account their use in the power supply system of a manned re-entry vehicle. Reviewed in the process of selecting the energy storage unit was an octagonal list of key characteristics with visual geometric representation of the integral characteristic. Conditions were adopted for assigning weight factors and the integral indicator for selection of the storage unit. Good reasons for selecting the energy storage system based LiSOCl2 were demonstrated. Taking into account the requirements of high availability and safety of the system, an advanced hybrid power supply system is proposed which uses super-capacitor units.
Key words: power supply system, reentry vehicle, primary chemical current source, energy storage unit, super-capacitor, weight factor, hybrid energy storage system.
Autonomous relay control system for satellite formation operating in low Earth orbit
Authors: BOGDANOV Kirill A. , TIMAKOV Sergey N. , ZYKOV Aleksanrd V. , SUBBOTIN Aleksey V.
Published: March 2020

A relay control algorithm is proposed for the satellite formation consisting of a «passive» (virtual) spacecraft moving in an unperturbed circular orbit, and several “active” spacecraft maneuvering relative to it. The purpose of control is to keep each active spacecraft on its finite path relative to the virtual spacecraft defining the center of formation with as low as possible propellant consumption. To describe the motion of maneuvering spacecraft relative to the center of formation, modified Hill–Clohessy–Wiltshire equations are used accounting for the earth's flattening and aerodynamic drag. The main emphasis of this paper is on the study of the existence of stable limit cycles and determination of their domains of attraction, as well as the search for values of the relay control system parameters ensuring a minimum propellant consumption for maintaining a proper dynamic formation behavior.
Key words: relay control, point transformation method, formation flying, limit cycle, phase plane.
A DANÇA CONTEMPORÂNEA DO BALLET STAGIUM
Authors: Veloso Junior Carlos de Moura
Published: March 2020

Este artigo tem por objetivo verificar os motivos que instigaram os diretores do Ballet Stagium a criar o espetáculo de dança contemporânea Dança das Cabeças, obra que tinha em seu enredo coreológico a questão da migração nordestina para as regiões centrais do Brasil. Essa companhia de dança surgiu durante o período do regime militar brasileiro, especificamente no ano de 1971, e tinha como característica central elaborar espetáculos de dança que discutissem questões de âmbito social, transformando a arte da dança em uma forma de manifestação política/artística. Pretende-se também analisar discursos publicados na imprensa, de determinados críticos de dança do período sobre o espetáculo Dança das Cabeças, para então verificar quais informações sobre a obra circulavam para a população.
APPROACH TO THE ASSESSMENT OF TERRITORIES WITH A DEVELOPED FORESTRY COMPLEX (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE ARKHANGELSK REGION)
Authors: Alekseev Yu. , Perekopskaya M.
Published: March 2020

The problem of assessing the urban development potential of the territories of the timber industry complex of the Arkhangelsk region, due to the conditions, features and specifics of the location of settlements and industries is considered; suggestions for improving their spatial organization are given.

The existing system of placement and the relationship of settlements and industries within the existing territorial borders of the Arkhangelsk region does not meet new facts and data due to the features of the technological process of harvesting, woodworking technologies, reforestation and the sequence of their implementation.

To ensure the vital activity of these settlements and industries, it is proposed to consider the territory of the timber industry complex in the form of a system of urban development areas. Their boundaries are determined by the potential of forest plots, which are the raw material base for enterprises; by a system of enterprises for wood harvesting, woodworking and processing of wood; by territories of municipal districts, settlements and the availability of labor resources within these districts, the specifics of functional processes, functions, factors characteristic of the planning of settlements and industries in the Arkhangelsk region being taken into account.

The establishment of the boundaries of the urban development area while planning the settlements and industries in the Arkhangelsk region will provide reasonable measures for their territorial and spatial organization and placement in accordance with modern conditions and requirements.
USE OF OPAL-CRYSTOBALITE-TRIDIMITE MICRO-FILLER IN DENSE AGGREGATE CONCRETE
Authors: Lukutcova N. , Pykin A. , Chivikova E.
Published: March 2020

Opal-cristobalite-tridimite micro-filler (OCTMF) as a component of dense aggregate concrete (DAC), obtained by grinding of sedimentary siliceous rock – abiomorphic silicite fractions of 0.315-0.63 mm was studied considered. The chemical-mineral composition and microstructure of the of OCTMF particles were determined. Comparative analysis of the relationship between particle size distribution, average particle diameter, specific surface area of OCTMF particle and grinding period in shock-abrasive and cavitation mills was carried out. The conductometric express method was applied to study the effect of the OCTMF specific surface area on hydration activity of cement system. The optimal value of OCTMF specific surface area was (880–900 m2/kg), achieved as a result of cavitation dispersion for 5–10 minutes, that provides increasing in t hydration activity of cement system by 52–54 %. The effect of the consumption of components on strength of the DAC after 28 days of hardening was determined using mathematical statistics method. That allows predicting this parameter by varying the component composition of the concrete mix. An assessment of the OCTMF efficiency was made. It was established, the maximal effect of the OCTMF is at concentration up to 5 % (by wt. of cement), that provides an increasing the design compressive strength of DAC up to 126 %.
Ekumenska bibliografija u časopisu Nova revija (1922. - 1841.)
Authors: Macut Ivan
Published: March 2020

Članak pod naslovom Ekumenska bibliografija u časopisu Nova revija (1922. – 1941.) uz uvod i zaključak, podijeljen je na tri dijela. U uvodu autor ukratko piše o nastanku časopisa Nova revija. Prvo poglavlje
posvećeno je detaljnoj ekumenskoj bibliografiji časopisa i to od 1922. do 1941. godine, dakle od početka pa do prestanka izlaženja. U ostalim poglavljima autor donosi grupiranje ekumenske bibliografije po pojedinim
teološkim i ekumenskim temama te ih autor nakon toga predstavlja i analizira. Obrađene su tri teme: Prva svjetska konferencija praktičnog kršćanstva u Švedskoj, Euharistija i Pitanje papinstva. Autorov je zaključak da su svi tekstovi u skladu s ondašnjim stavom Katoličke Crkve, teološkim postavkama i promišljanjima onoga vremena te da svi skupa promiču ekumenizam povratka, a što je i bila tendencija u pred-saborskoj katoličkoj ekumenskoj teologiji.