bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relief Modeling in the Restoration of Extractive Activities Using Drone Imagery
Authors: Russell Erick , Padró Joan-Cristian , Montero Pau , Domingo-Marimon Cristina , Carabassa Vicenç
Published: February 2023

In the field of mine engineering, a cross-section topographic survey is usually carried out to perform volumetric calculations of earth movement in order to restore areas affected by extractive activities. Nowadays, Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System (GIS) technologies make it possible to perform the same work by using indirect methods such as images obtained by photogrammetric flights. In this context, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) are considered a very convenient option to develop mapping projects in short periods of time and to provide quality geospatial information such as Digital Elevation Models (DEM) and orthophotos of centimetric spatial resolution. In the present study, this approach has been applied in a gravel extraction area to obtain data for estimating the filling volume of material required for the restoration of the relief (DEM(r)). The estimation of the DEM(r) is later used to calculate a difference of height values (DEM(r)-DEM) that will serve as a variable in the basic operation of volume calculation. The novelty of the presented method is the simulation of a relief adapted to the surrounding morphology, including the derived channel network and the visibility impact, improving what would be a simple clogging. Likewise, the generation of 3D models allows visualizing a new morphological structure of the relief. The proposed approach, based on GIS tools, allows analyzing water flow connectivity integration of the DEM(r) with the environment and estimating potential landscape impacts from the main focuses of a visual basin, both of which are key aspects of restoration modeling that are not always properly addressed.
Exploring Private Investigation Agencies’ Experience of Collaboration with Law Enforcement in Investigations of Human Trafficking Cases
Authors: Hounmenou Charles , Toepp Sachi
Published: February 2023

In their forefront role to address human trafficking, law enforcement agencies (LEAs) have often faced challenges in efforts to investigate this crime. Non-traditional partnerships should be explored to improve strategies to investigate human trafficking. Could private investigation agencies (PIAs) collaborate with LEAs to help improve human trafficking investigations? The present study examines PIAs’ experiences of collaboration with LEAs for human trafficking investigations. A mixed research method design was used. Purposive sampling was used to select 81 participants representing 81 PIAs for a survey. Follow-up semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 of the 39 survey participants who reported that their agencies had collaborated with LEAs for human trafficking investigations. The findings show varying levels of success and challenges for PIAs in interagency collaboration with LEAs. The challenges to collaboration identified could be mostly explained by LEAs’ misperceptions of private investigators, their over-reliance on a criminal approach instead of a victim-centered one in investigating trafficking cases and recovering victims, and legal or ethical limitations. Positive aspects of PIA–LEA partnerships regarding human trafficking investigations were discussed and so were strategies to address inherent challenges to interagency collaboration. Several policy implications were discussed for developing and improving partnership initiatives with law enforcement in an effort to prevent human trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute trafficking cases.
What Is in a Name? Exploring Perceptions of Surname Change in Hiring Evaluations in Academia
Authors: Stefanova Vasilena , Latu Ioana , Taylor Laura
Published: February 2023

The motherhood penalty reflects inequalities in the workplace based on caregiver status. A number of factors have been identified as potential triggers of motherhood penalty effects, such as becoming pregnant or taking maternity leave. However, little is known as to whether these effects could also be triggered by more subtle cues that may signal potential changes in caregiver status. The current study investigated the impact of surname change visible on publication lists in academics’ Google Scholar profiles on evaluations of competence, commitment, work–family balance, hiring, and promotion likelihood. Contrary to the predictions in our preregistration, the findings showed that women who have changed their surname received more favourable evaluations compared to those who did not. In addition, female participants favoured female academics who have changed their surname compared to those who did not and this was mediated by higher perceived competence and commitment scores. These findings were interpreted through the lens of social role theory and the role prioritisation model, suggesting that behaviours that are consistent with gendered expectations are evaluated more favourably.
Real-Time Pricing Method for Spot Cloud Services with Non-Stationary Excess Capacity
Authors: Peng Huijie , Cheng Yan , Li Xingyuan
Published: February 2023

Cloud operators face massive unused excess computing capacity with a stochastic non-stationary nature due to time-varying resource utilization with peaks and troughs. Low-priority spot (pre-emptive) cloud services with real-time pricing have been launched by many cloud operators, which allow them to maximize excess capacity revenue while keeping the right to reclaim capacities when resource scarcity occurs. However, real-time spot pricing with the non-stationarity of excess capacity has two challenges: (1) it faces incomplete peak–trough and pattern shifts in excess capacity, and (2) it suffers time and space inefficiency in optimal spot pricing policy, which needs to search over the large space of history-dependent policies in a non-stationary state. Our objective was to develop a real-time pricing method with a spot pricing scheme to maximize expected cumulative revenue under a non-stationary state. We first formulated the real-time spot pricing problem as a non-stationary Markov decision process. We then developed an improved reinforcement learning algorithm to obtain the optimal solution for real-time pricing problems. Our simulation experiments demonstrate that the profitability of the proposed reinforcement learning algorithm outperforms that of existing solutions. Our study provides both efficient optimization algorithms and valuable insights into cloud operators’ excess capacity management practices.
A Simulation Study on the Impact of the Digital Economy on CO2 Emission Based on the System Dynamics Model
Authors: Liao Zhenzhen , Ru Shaofeng , Cheng Yiyang
Published: February 2023

The digital economy plays an important role in achieving the strategic goal of “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality” in China. In this study, we construct a system dynamics (SD) model to comprehensively analyze the impact of the digital economy on CO2 emission. First, we simulate and forecast the future baseline of the digital economy, energy consumption, and CO2 emission in China from 2005 to 2040. Second, we study the impact of the digital economy on CO2 emission based on scenario analysis of different digital economy growth rates. Finally, we study the influencing factors of CO2 emission reduction effect of the digital economy. The results indicate the following: (1) CO2 emission will peak in 2034. From 2020 to 2025, the cumulative reduction in energy consumption intensity will be 15.75% and the cumulative reduction in CO2 emission intensity will be 20.9%. Both indicators will reach the national goals during the 14th Five-Year Plan period. However, it will require more effort to realize the goal of the share of non-fossil energy. (2) There is an inverted U-shaped relationship between the digital economy and CO2 emission. The digital economy aggravates CO2 emission mainly by promoting energy consumption, but it reduces CO2 emission by promoting the upgrading of the energy consumption structure and reducing the energy consumption intensity. (3) The R&D investment intensity and the environment investment intensity can strengthen the CO2 emission reduction effect of the digital economy. The results will be crucial for carbon reduction and provide policymakers with suggestions for sustainability.
The Impact of Female Education, Trade Openness, Per Capita GDP, and Urbanization on Women’s Employment in South Asia: Application of CS-ARDL Model
Authors: Voumik Liton Chandra , Rahman Md. Hasanur , Islam Md. Azharul , Chowdhury Mohammad Abu Sayeem , Zimon Grzegorz
Published: February 2023

This study examines the impact of female education and other control variables such as trade openness, per capita GDP, urbanization, and male employment on women’s employment opportunities in South Asian countries. The annual data from 1990 to 2020 were evaluated. After determining the existence of slope heterogeneity, cross-sectional dependence, and mixed order stationary in the panel data, the paper applied the Cross-Sectional Autoregressive Distributive Lag (CS-ARDL) model to estimate long and short-run impacts. At the same time, AMG, MG, and CCEMG models have been utilized for checking robustness and validating the findings. According to CS-ARDL findings, female education and trade openness have a significant positive impact on female employment in the short and long term. In contrast, GDP per capita and urbanization are diminishing female employment in the targeted countries in the long run. The AMG, MG, and CCEMG results support the CS-ARDL findings. This shows that these governments should incorporate trade and education for women into their labor strategies. The key contribution of this study is in the field of labor market opportunity for female employment and shows the relative importance of education in determining female employment in South Asia.
Can Nonliterates Interact as Easily as Literates with a Virtual Reality System? A Usability Evaluation of VR Interaction Modalities
Authors: Gul Muhammad Ibtisam , Khan Iftikhar Ahmed , Shah Sajid , El-Affendi Mohammed
Published: February 2023

The aim of the study is twofold: to assess the usability of a virtuality (VR) interaction designed for nonliterate users in accordance with ISO-Standard 9241-11 and to compare the feasibility of two interaction modalities (motion controllers and real hands) considering the impact of VR sickness. To accomplish these goals, two levels were designed for a VR prototype application. The system usability scale (SUS) was used for self-reported satisfaction, while effectiveness and efficiency were measured based on observations and logged data. These measures were then analyzed using exploratory factor analysis, and the ones with high factor loading were selected. For this purpose, two studies were conducted. The first study investigated the effects of three independent variables on the interaction performance of a VR system, i.e., “User Type,” “Interaction Modality,” and “Use of New Technology.” The SUS results suggest that all the participants were satisfied with the application. The results of one-way ANOVA tests showed that there were no significant differences in the use of the VR application among the three selected user types. However, some measures, such as task completion time in level one, showed significant differences between user types, suggesting that nonliterate users had difficulty with the grab-and-move interaction. The results of the multivariate analysis using statistically significant variables from both ANOVA tests were also reported to verify the effect of modern technology on interactivity. The second study evaluated the interaction performance of nonliterate adults in a VR application using two independent variables: “Interaction Modality” and “Years of Technological Experience.” The results of the study showed a high level of satisfaction with the VR application, with an average satisfaction score of 90.75. The one sample T-tests indicated that the nonliterate users had difficulty using their hands as the interaction modality. The study also revealed that nonliterates may struggle with the poses and gestures required for hand interaction. The results suggest that until advancements in hand-tracking technology are made, controllers may be easier for nonliterate adults to use compared to using their hands. The results underline the importance of designing VR applications that are usable and accessible for nonliterate adults and can be used as guidelines for creating VR learning experiences for nonliterate adults.
Moisture Condensation on Epitaxial Graphene upon Cooling
Authors: Saleem Muhammad Farooq , Khan Niaz Ali , Javid Muhammad , Ashraf Ghulam Abbas , Haleem Yasir A. , Iqbal Muhammad Faisal , Bilal Muhammad , Wang Peijie , Ma Lei
Published: February 2023

Condensation of moisture on the epitaxial graphene on 6H-SiC was observed below room temperature despite continuous nitrogen flow on the graphene surface. Raman peaks associated with ice were observed. A combination of peaks in the frequency range of 500–750 cm−1, along with a broad peak centered at ~1327 cm−1, were also observed and were assigned to airborne contaminants. The latter is more important since its position is in the frequency range where the defect-associated D band of graphene appears. This band can be easily misunderstood to be the D band of graphene, particularly when the Raman spectrum is taken below room temperature. This peak was even observed after the sample was brought back to room temperature due to water stains. This work highlights the importance of careful Raman investigation of graphene below room temperature and its proper insulation against moisture.
The Burden of Pneumocystis Pneumonia Infection among HIV Patients in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gelaw Yared Mulu , Guracho Yonas Deressa , Robert-Gangneux Florence , Alene Getu Degu , Gangneux Jean-Pierre
Published: February 2023

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a leading cause of death among patients with AIDS worldwide, but its burden is difficult to estimate in low- and middle-income countries, including Ethiopia. This systematic review aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of PCP in Ethiopia, the second most densely populated African country. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were used to review published and unpublished studies conducted in Ethiopia. Studies that reported on the prevalence of PCP among HIV-infected patients were searched systematically. Variations between the studies were assessed by using forest plot and I-squared heterogeneity tests. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were carried out when I2 > 50. The pooled estimate prevalence with 95% CI was computed using a random-effects model of analysis. Thirteen articles, comprising studies of 4847 individuals living with HIV, were included for analysis. The pooled prevalence of PCP was 5.65% (95% CI [3.74–7.56]) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 93.6%, p < 0.01). To identify the source of heterogeneity, subgroup analyses were conducted by study design, geographical region, diagnosis methods, and year of publication. PCP prevalence differed significantly when biological diagnostic methods were used (32.25%), in studies published before 2010 (32.51%), in cross-sectional studies (8.08%), and in Addis Ababa (14.05%). PCP prevalence differences of 3.25%, 3.07%, 3.23%, and 2.29% were recorded in studies based on clinical records, published since 2017, follow-up studies, and north-west Ethiopian studies, respectively. The prevalence of PCP is probably underestimated, as the reports were mainly based on clinical records. An expansion of biological diagnostic methods could make it possible to estimate the exact burden of PCP in Ethiopia.
Hubble Tension: The Evidence of New Physics
Authors: Hu Jian-Ping , Wang Fa-Yin
Published: February 2023

The ΛCDM model provides a good fit to most astronomical observations but harbors large areas of phenomenology and ignorance. With the improvements in the precision and number of observations, discrepancies between key cosmological parameters of this model have emerged. Among them, the most notable tension is the 4σ to 6σ deviation between the Hubble constant (H0) estimations measured by the local distance ladder and the cosmic microwave background (CMB) measurement. In this review, we revisit the H0 tension based on the latest research and sort out evidence from solutions to this tension that might imply new physics beyond the ΛCDM model. The evidence leans more towards modifying the late-time universe.
Differential Loss of OAS Genes Indicates Diversification of Antiviral Immunity in Mammals
Authors: Eckhart Leopold , Sipos Wolfgang
Published: February 2023

One of the main mechanisms of inducing an antiviral response depends on 2′-5′-oligoadenylate synthetases (OAS), which sense double-stranded RNA in the cytoplasm and activate RNase L. Mutations leading to the loss of functional OAS1 and OAS2 genes have been identified as important modifiers of the human immune response against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Here, we performed comparative genomics to search for inactivating mutations of OAS genes in other species of mammals and to establish a model for the diversifying evolution of the OAS gene family. We found that a recombination of the OAS and OAS-like (OASL) loci has led to the loss of OAS2 in camelids, which also lack OAS3. Both paralogs of OASL and OAS3 are absent in Asian pangolins. An evolutionarily ancient OAS paralog, which we tentatively name OAS4, has been lost in pangolins, bats and humans. A previously unknown OAS gene, tentatively named OAS5, is present in Yangochiroptera, a suborder of bats. These differences in the OAS gene repertoire may affect innate immune responses to coronaviruses and other RNA viruses.
Predictor of HPV Vaccination Uptake among Foreign-Born College Students in the U.S.: An Exploration of the Role of Acculturation and the Health Belief Model
Authors: Alsulami Fahad T. , Sanchez Jesus , Rabionet Silvia E. , Popovici Ioana , Baraka Mohamed A.
Published: February 2023

Objective: to measure the HPV vaccination rate and knowledge about HPV and its vaccine among foreign-born college students; additionally, to measure the effect of acculturation and HBM constructs on the HPV vaccination behavior among foreign-born college students. Methods: a cross-sectional design with a non-probability sample of foreign-born college students was collected via a web-based self-administered survey that measured the HPV vaccination rate, assessed knowledge about HPV and its vaccine, and evaluated the effect of acculturation and HBM constructs on HPV vaccination behavior among foreign-born college students. Results: Foreign-born college students had moderate knowledge about HPV and the HPV vaccine, and about 63% were HPV-vaccinated. Perceived susceptibility, perceived barriers, and cues to action were significantly associated with the HPV vaccination behavior, while knowledge levels about HPV and the HPV vaccine and acculturation levels were not significantly associated with the HPV vaccination behavior of foreign-born college students. Conclusions: The current study shows a moderate vaccination rate and moderate knowledge about HPV and its vaccine among foreign-born college students. Additionally, vaccination campaigns need to increase awareness about the susceptibility to acquiring HPV and minimize the barriers to receiving the vaccine to increase the HPV vaccination rate among foreign-born college students.
Investigation of Neurological Complications after COVID-19 Vaccination: Report of the Clinical Scenarios and Review of the Literature
Authors: Chen Wei-Ping , Chen Ming-Hua , Shang Shih-Ta , Kao Yung-Hsi , Wu Kuo-An , Chiang Wen-Fang , Chan Jenq-Shyong , Shyu Hann-Yeh , Hsiao Po-Jen
Published: February 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), broke out in 2019 and became a pandemic in 2020. Since then, vaccines have been approved to prevent severe illness. However, vaccines are associated with the risk of neurological complications ranging from mild to severe. Severe complications such as vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) associated with acute ischaemic stroke have been reported as rare complications post-COVID-19 vaccination. During the pandemic era, VITT evaluation is needed in cases with a history of vaccination within the last month prior to the event. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) should be suspected in patients following immunization with persistent headaches who are unresponsive to analgesics. In this article, we investigated neurological complications after COVID-19 vaccination and provided more subsequent related clinical studies of accurate diagnosis, pathophysiological mechanisms, incidence, outcome, and management.
Adenovirus Vaccine Containing Truncated SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein S1 Subunit Leads to a Specific Immune Response in Mice
Authors: Chen Keda , Shi Danrong , Li Chaonan , Fang Zhongbiao , Guo Yikai , Jiang Wenjie , Li Jiaxuan , Li Hongyu , Yao Hangping
Published: February 2023

The development of an efficient and safe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine is a crucial approach for managing the severe acute respiratory disease coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic in light of current conditions. In this study, we produced a shortened segment of the optimized SARS-CoV-2 spike gene (2043 bp, termed S1) that was able to encode a truncated S1 protein. The protein was tested to determine if it could elicit efficient immunization in mice against SARS-CoV-2. The presence of the S1 protein was confirmed with immunofluorescence and Western blotting. An adenovirus vaccine bearing the S1 gene fragment (Ad-S1) was administered intramuscularly to mice four times over 4 weeks. SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein humoral immunity was demonstrated in all immunized mice. The serum from immunized mice demonstrated excellent anti-infection activity in vitro. A robust humoral immune response against SARS-CoV-2 was observed in the mice after vaccination with Ad-S1, suggesting that the adenovirus vaccine may aid the development of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 and other genetically distinct viruses.
Environment in Veterinary Education
Authors: Palacios-Díaz María del Pino , Mendoza-Grimón Vanessa
Published: February 2023

Environmental concerns have become priority issues over the last third of the 20th century. The EU’s common agricultural policy (CAP) has gone from rules which supported the farming sector after years of famine to being oriented towards looking at environmental aspects. Therefore, it has evolved not only to react to a changing market and consumer demands but also to respond to climate change and the need for sustainable development. Environmental education is an important pillar for responding and adapting to climate change. The CAP policies oriented towards optimizing the use of natural resources, residue management, antimicrobial use reduction, the decrease of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), and animal welfare need linked educational programs. In this context, veterinarians, being experts in animal production, welfare, and food safety and its technology and public health under the One Health concept, are scarcely informed in environmental aspects, which would help them to understand and face the consequences of climate change in the rural world. Future veterinarians must be able to quantify the effects of animal production on the environment, optimizing the use of natural resources, minimizing GHG emissions, and managing the risks associated with climate change by using different analysis tools that need to be included in their learning programs.
KITLG Copy Number Germline Variations in Schnauzer Breeds and Their Relevance in Digital Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Black Giant Schnauzers
Authors: Aupperle-Lellbach Heike , Heidrich Daniela , Kehl Alexandra , Conrad David , Brockmann Maria , Törner Katrin , Beitzinger Christoph , Müller Tobias
Published: February 2023

Copy number variations (CNVs) of the KITLG gene seem to be involved in the oncogenesis of digital squamous cell carcinoma (dSCC). The aims of this study were (1) to investigate KITLG CNV in giant (GS), standard (SS), and miniature (MS) schnauzers and (2) to compare KITLG CNV between black GS with and without dSCC. Blood samples from black GS (22 with and 17 without dSCC), black SS (18 with and 4 without dSSC; 5 unknown), and 50 MS (unknown dSSC status and coat colour) were analysed by digital droplet PCR. The results are that (1) most dogs had a copy number (CN) value > 4 (range 2.5–7.6) with no significant differences between GS, SS, and MS, and (2) the CN value in black GS with dSCC was significantly higher than in those without dSCC (p = 0.02). CN values > 5.8 indicate a significantly increased risk for dSCC, while CN values < 4.7 suggest a reduced risk for dSCC (grey area: 4.7–5.8). Diagnostic testing for KITLG CNV may sensitise owners to the individual risk of their black GS for dSCC. Further studies should investigate the relevance of KITLG CNV in SS and the protective effects in MS, who rarely suffer from dSCC.
Application of Bifurcated Semitendinosus Muscle Transposition for Treatment of Fecal Incontinence in Two Dogs
Authors: Kim Mu-Young , Nam Chang-Hoon , Kim Ji-Hyun , Yoon Hun-Young
Published: February 2023

A 4-year-old mixed breed dog and a 19-year-old English cocker spaniel dog were evaluated for fecal incontinence. The second dog’s fecal incontinence was associated with the anal mass. In both dogs, reconstruction of the external anal sphincter was required to gain fecal continence. Especially in the dog with an anal mass, the whole musculature involved in fecal continence was removed with the affected anorectum. Conventional surgical treatments for fecal incontinence have limitations in terms of muscle flap length and complexity of the surgical procedure. A modified surgical technique using the semitendinosus muscle was devised in the present study to overcome these limitations. The distal part of the semitendinosus muscle was bifurcated to make two muscle bundles, used to completely encircle the anorectum. These muscle bundles were sutured to the surrounding rectal muscle and the pelvic diaphragm to simulate the function of the external anal sphincter. Three months after surgery, both dogs showed significantly improved fecal continence without severe complications, such as infection, dehiscence, or lameness of the limb where the semitendinosus muscle was harvested. The outcomes of the two dogs supported the acceptability of the bifurcated muscle flap for anal sphincter augmentation. In addition, this report showed the possibility of more diverse applications of semitendinosus muscle in dogs.
Hydrological Methodology Evolution for Runoff Estimations at Ungauged Sites
Authors: Şen Zekâi
Published: February 2023

This review paper recites fundamentals of historical runoff estimation methodologies that were developed for ungauged drainage basins. Additionally, new approaches are also provided as extensions of modern ones. Early methodologies of runoff calculations were suggested towards the end of the 18th century, when there was no historical record availability for rainfall or runoff. Some of these methodologies have not been cited in the scientific literature, but they have been frequently used by engineers as practical hydrological approaches in different parts of the United States, especially in Kansas. Early hydrologists were aware of the shortcomings, but they were hampered by the shortage of reliable streamflow and rainfall data. These methods did not consider recurrence intervals associated with designs, and their drawbacks originated more from a shortage of useful hydrologic data rather than logical and rational interconnection between the causative and resultant factors. With availability of measured data, early studies considered daily total rainfall amounts for design purposes, which continued until 1935 when reliable rainfall frequency maps were published for durations shorter than 24 h. Frequency analysis advancement in 1940s provided regional flood frequency methods for ungauged sites. The transition to modern frequency-based hydrologic methods started from 1950 onwards. It is the main purpose of this review paper to cite the early and recent simple methodologies for ungauged drainage area rainfall, especially runoff estimation works. This paper provides the logical and rational fundamentals of each approach so that the reader may become acquainted with the evolution of the hydrological studies.
Performance and acceptability of the TfL Urban Bus Sound (AVAS)
Authors: Manzano Fontecha Eduardo , Waters Grant , Stuart Thomasin
Published: February 2023

Transport for London's quiet-running bus fleet is required to include an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) compliant with UNECE Regulation 138 and as part of a wider series of safety measures as set out in their Bus Safety Standard towards the London Mayor's 'Vision Zero' objectives.
As a public body, TfL must ensure that the Urban Bus Sound AVAS implementation is fit-for-purpose from a safety standpoint, is considerate of driver working conditions and is consistently implemented across a number of vehicle types, manufacturers and fleet operators. Additionally, as quiet-running
vehicles increase across the London bus network, it must consider the impact on the urban soundscape. Over the course of two years, Phase 2 of the project addressed practical implementation and quality assurance challenges, bringing together soundscape and acoustic testing, on-street public
and key stakeholder surveys, workshops with multiple vehicle manufacturers and operators as well as engagement with bus drivers. The project concludes by providing an optimised AVAS solution with specification and vehicle checks documentation to ensure successful roll-out. The project provides
an important view on considerations for how AVAS can be implemented on public transport vehicle fleets, to consider and work with a wide range of public and stakeholder requirements.
Broadband potential optimisation of a full scale acoustic metawindow performance.
Authors: Fusaro Gioia , Garai Massimo , Kang Jian
Published: February 2023

Noise control and airflow in duct-like systems are among some of the most interesting applications to conjugate AMMs innovation and sustainability. Specifically applied to the built environment, they opened up a new field of research supporting indoor wellbeing, sanitised environments,
and public activities. Previous research conducted by the authors has proved AMM based window to be a resourceful way to address both natural ventilation and reduce the incoming noise propagation; however, the effective spectral range did not cover lower frequencies (50-350 Hz). For this reason,
in the presented paper, implementation in the AMM unit geometry was performed over a full-scale acoustic metawindow (AMW). The resonating volume has been enhanced (by 200% of the original one) and coupled with a set of lateral flanks. Numerical analysis through FEM proved that on a range of
opening ratio from 3 to 33%, the TL related to the window is improved overall of the 70% on the frequency range from 50 to 350 Hz. Such results encourage the use of new AMMs ergonomic windows in place of standard ones to achieve both natural ventilation and noise attenuation from 50 to 5k
Hz, being resourceful for domestic, sanitary, and public applications.
Parameter extraction of 3D acoustic images using a nonlinear optimization technique
Authors: Del Val Lara , Izquierdo Alberto , Villacorta Juan J.
Published: February 2023

In biometrics, classification techniques are based on parameter extraction from a large data set, such as fingerprints. Specifically, when using 3D acoustic images, it is necessary to extract a set of meaningful parameters. This work assumes that each significant target will have an
acoustic image characterized by the 2D radiation pattern of the array and the envelope of the transmission pulse used. Under this assumption the final acoustic image can be synthesized by a linear combination of the significant targets in the scene. The work uses a non-linear optimization
algorithm that obtains the parameters (power, range, elevation and azimuth) for each of the significant targets from a 3D acoustic image. Specifically, the algorithm is applied to the parameterization of 3D images of people, as a prior step to the use of classification algorithms based on
machine learning.
Techniques to establish accurate background noise levels in areas affected by operational wind turbine noise
Authors: Dell Alexander , Baldwin Jason , Singleton Jim , Clark Gemma , Watson Ewan , Breslin Colum , Mackay James
Published: February 2023

During the planning process for an onshore wind farm, the establishment of accurate background noise levels at nearby noise sensitive receptors is vital in determining the allowable noise limits at these locations. This is typically achieved through background noise monitoring at a
selection of representative noise sensitive receptors. As onshore windfarms have become more prevalent, areas suitable for wind farm development are increasingly within the vicinity of operational wind farms. The result of this is background noise monitoring at receptors is now often influenced
by nearby operational wind farms and is not a true representation of the unaffected noise levels at these locations. Current good UK practice (as set out in the Institute of Acoustics document 'A good practice guide to the application of ETSU-R-97 for the assessment and rating of wind turbine
noise') proposes a number of solutions to account for this additional wind farm noise. One solution is to consider directional filtering or the subtraction of the predicted noise levels from the measured baseline data. Whilst both approaches are valid, it can often be unclear which approach
is most appropriate for a particular scenario. Within this paper, the limitations of current good practice are discussed, and an alternative methodology is proposed which combines both approaches to establish the unaffected background noise levels. Specific examples of where this alternative
approach has been used are presented within the paper as validation.
Optimization of a contra-rotating propeller rig for reduced psychoacoustic impact
Authors: Casagrande Hirono Fabio , Torija Martinez Antonio , Elliott Andrew
Published: February 2023

With unmanned aerial vehicles emerging as potential alternatives for people and cargo transport, their noise impact will be a determining factor in their acceptance by the general public. Contra-rotating propeller configurations are often explored due to their improved aerodynamic performance
and redundancy in case of failure compared to conventional single-propeller aircraft, but can be much noisier than their single-propeller equivalent. This work describes the optimization of a custom-made contra-rotating propeller rig for reduced psychoacoustic impact. The rig consists of two
electric motors mounted on a rotating stand, positioned inside an anechoic chamber. A far-field microphone arc is used to collect acoustic pressure data, and a load cell is used to measure total thrust. The axial distance between the propellers is varied between 0.1 and 1 rotor diameters,
and the number of blades is varied between 2 and 6 on both propellers. Meanwhile, the rpm is adjusted to maintain constant thrust across the different configurations. Acoustic pressure signals are investigated in terms of their physical acoustic characteristics and psychoacoustic features
(such as Loudness, Sharpness, Tonality, Fluctuation Strength, Roughness and Impulsiveness) in order to determine the trade-offs and optimal choices in reducing the psychoacoustic impact of the rig.
3D printed sound-absorbing materials with double porosity
Authors: Zielinski Tomasz G. , Dauchez Nicolas , Boutin Thomas , Leturia Mikel , Wilkinson Alexandre , Chevillotte Fabien , Bécot François-Xavier , Venegas Rodolfo
Published: February 2023

The paper shows that acoustic materials with double porosity can be 3D printed with the appropriate design of the main pore network and the contrasted micro-porous skeleton. The microporous structure is obtained through the use of appropriate additive manufacturing (AM) technology,
raw material, and process parameters. The essential properties of the microporous material obtained in this way are investigated experimentally. Two AM technologies are used to 3D print acoustic samples with the same periodic network of main pores: one provides a microporous skeleton leading
to double porosity, while the other provides single-porosity material. The sound absorption for each acoustic material is determined both experimentally using impedance tube measurements and numerically using a multiscale model. The model combines finite element calculations (on periodic representative
elementary volumes) with scaling functions and analytical expressions resulting from homogenization. The obtained double-porosity material is shown to exhibit a strong permeability contrast resulting in a pressure diffusion effect, which fundamentally changes the nature of the sound absorption
compared to its single-porosity counterpart with an impermeable skelton. This work opens up interesting perspectives for the use of popular, low-cost AM technologies to produce efficient sound absorbing materials.
Annoyance of railway curve squeal
Authors: Kasess Christian , Maly Thomas , Kirisits Christian , Majdak Piotr , Waubke Holger
Published: February 2023

Trains passing through a curve frequently produce the so-called curve squeal, which are salient noise components (typically either tonal or transient) covering a wide frequency range. Although the main underlying acoustical mechanisms are well known, due to the large variety of curve
squeal characteristics, their effects on acoustic parameters and in particular on the perception are difficult to quantify. The work presented here aims at investigating the effects of acoustically described curve squeals on the perceived annoyance, tested in the laboratory with 30 listeners.
Measurements of curve squeal at distances of 7.5, 25, and 50 m in three narrow curves were obtained. By means of so-called frame multipliers, time-variable salient features were manipulated and combined with a number of clean rolling noises to simulate squeals with parameters obtained from
existing emission measurements. The annoyance ratings showed that the perception of curve squeal can be considerably altered compared to that of regular passby noises. A model was developed for the annoyance equivalent level adjustment from a clean rolling noise based on the contrast of high
and mid-frequency energy. The model predictions can serve as a basis to establish rating levels predicting the perceived annoyance of railway curve squeal.
Experimental and numerical modal analysis of the Turkish traditional instrument 'Bendir'
Authors: Tatlier Ugur , Ozturk Sinem , Oner Nursah , Yetim Sevinc Aycan
Published: February 2023

This study carried out an experimental and numerical modal analysis of the Turkish traditional instrument 'Bendir' by an acoustical excitation source. In experimental modal analysis, Bendir was excited acoustically for specified frequencies and elastic deformations of different areas
of Bendir due to the excitation were observed with a laser vibrometer. Using the Fourier series handled gained data, modal analysis was done. The first six natural frequencies obtained experimentally and numerically were compared. In addition, other hits in Bendir, symbolizing three fundamental
voices such as 'dum', 'te', 'ke' were used to excite the instrument. As a result, time dependent deformation & velocity data were determined and different responses of Bendir were compared.
Evaluating the Specific Sound Level from Plant and Machinery in High Residual Sound Environments
Authors: Torjussen Matthew
Published: February 2023

BS 4142 requires the selection of periods within a sound pressure level time-series to calculate the specific sound level from the ambient and residual sound levels. This is usually done in the time-domain by monitoring and/or controlling the specific sound source(s); however, there
are instances where it is necessary to evaluate the specific sound level at a remote location without any control over the operation of the specific sound source(s), which may make it difficult to obtain a representative specific sound level where there are high levels of residual sound. BS
4142 directs practitioners to carry out measurements closer to the source and then use a calculation method to estimate the specific sound level at the assessment location(s). For some types of specific sound sources, it may be possible to increase the accuracy of the specific sound level
evaluation using two microphones. This paper presents a method that uses two microphones to acquire ambient sound data simultaneously at the receptor and closer to the source. Coherence is used to identify the components present in the signal measured at the receptor that are also present
in the signal measured closer to the source. This approach allows the specific sound level to be evaluated when the difference between the overall A-weighted ambient and residual sound levels is less than 3dB.
Development of ventilation and sound-absorbing materials using specimens generated by the multi-objective optimization method
Authors: Kajitani Keigo
Published: February 2023

In hot and humid tropical countries, the houses are designed to be naturally ventilated with vent louvers. However, these louvers play as direct paths for noise entering the house. It is necessary to create geometries that can maximize the noise transmission loss and the ventilation
performance of the housing structure. The present study aims to develop ventilation and sound-absorbing material using the multi-objective optimization method. This material has a specific design that enables wind from the exterior of the building to pass through while reducing noise. This
study is presented in two parts. This paper, Part 1, explains the multi-objective optimization method and analysis calculation result. In the following paper, Part 2, the acoustic experiment of the ABS specimens manufactured by the 3D printer and results will be reported. An optimization problem
is formulated by the Digital Fourier transformation, which searches the patterns of existing and blank elements. The sum of the magnitudes of the flow velocities in all the elements and those in the bottom elements are obtained from fluid potential flow analysis and used as by-objective functions.
Multi-objective optimization is performed using "Platypus," an external library of Python. As a result, models that maximized the sum of the magnitude of each flow velocities are obtained.
High-speed optical imaging and spatio-temporal analysis of sound sources of edge tone phenomena
Authors: Tanigawa Risako , Yatabe Kohei , Oikawa Yasuhiro
Published: February 2023

Aerodynamic sounds are one of the noises of high-speed trains, automobiles, and wind turbines. To understand the characteristics of those noises, measuring sound sources is important. In general, microphones are used for measuring aerodynamic sounds. However, measuring the sound fields
inside flow fields is difficult for microphones because they disturb flows. Thus, optical measurement methods have been applied to visualize aerodynamic sounds. The optical method can measure the sound fields without installing devices inside measurement fields. Therefore, it can capture the
sound around sources. In this paper, we performed visualization and spatio-temporal analysis of sound sources of edge tones using parallel phase-shifting interferometry (PPSI). We experimentally confirmed the difference in pressure fluctuations near the sound source depending on the frequency
of the edge tones.
Pressure-velocity measurements of a small automotive fan at different working conditions. A noise generation perspective.
Authors: Di Marco Alessandro , de Paola Elisa , Stoica Luana Georgiana , Mollica Enrico
Published: February 2023

Although noise from large fans has been extensively studied by the scientific community, few experimental studies have been performed on small-scale fans, where aerodynamic effects due to low Reynolds numbers needs be taken into account. For this reason, some preliminary experimental
investigations have been carried out on cooling fans for automotive applications. The experimental campaign has been focused on the characterization of the flow outlet first, using a static Pitot on a 5.5-inch five-bladed fan, with and without its protective grid. After this preliminary phase,
simultaneous measurements of velocity with hot-wire anemometry (HWA) and pressure fluctuations with microphones have been also carried out, the HWA probe being located downstream and two microphones positioned in the nearfield and far-field of the fan. The fan has been also studied at different
working conditions, varying the rotational speed and applying specific fine grids at the intake, in order to well reproduce the presence of the cooler. Analyses in the time and frequency domain have been performed on the measured data, including cross-correlation between pressure and velocity
signals, in order to find the main driving mechanisms that are related to the noise generation.
Valve noise at high pressure ratios
Authors: Quaranta Erika , Smith Malcolm
Published: February 2023

When high pressure air expands through an orifice it can be an intense noise source, which may be hazardous for nearby personnel if it occurs in an unexpected or uncontrolled way. This paper describes a set of measurements that were carried out to validate and calibrate the well-known
Beranek semi-empirical prediction method. A number of valve mockups were tested over a range of mass flow rates with pressure ratios up to 11 Bar, so that the model could be used with confidence to extrapolate up to much higher pressures and larger valve sizes. Interpretation of the measured
noise data is carried out using an isentropic analysis of the flow, assuming choked conditions in the orifice to infer a jet Mach number and mass flow rate for each test condition. Based on this inferred flow data the sound power scaled as expected with 8th power of jet Mach number, although
there were some deviations at high frequencies and for particular valve configurations. It is also shown that for all valves the sound power varied as 1.5th power of mass flow rate, which is in reasonable agreement with the law that is implicit in the Beranek model, and provided a good basis
for extrapolating to larger devices.
Assessment of a Statistical Energy Analysis model to perform automotive acoustic comfort subjective evaluation
Authors: Miqueau Valentin , Parizet Etienne , Germes Sylvain
Published: February 2023

Saint-Gobain is currently developing Statistical Energy Analysis models in order to predict the mid-high frequency airborne interior noise generated by the wind excitations on vehicles. Our objective is to assess the possibility of using the predictions of this model to perform subjective
evaluation of the acoustic comfort inside the cabin. This way, as a tier-one supplier of automotive glazing, Saint-Gobain could investigate psycho-acoustic evaluations earlier in its design process. A car equipped with several sets of glazing was exposed to an in-lab representative excitation
to record an experimental set of sounds. Concurrently, those car configurations were simulated using the model and a numerical set of sounds was auralized. Both sets were compared through two jury testing campaigns. The campaigns highlighted that the participants gave similar evaluations of
sounds regardless of their origin set. However, the ratings were not exactly the same between measurement and simulation. The definition of the glazing inside the model and/or its interaction with elements linked to it, like the window seals, might be the cause of those rating differences.
More investigations were thus conducted to assess the influence of the window seals on the acoustic insulation performances of the glazing.