bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
fsdaSAS: A Package for Robust Regression for Very Large Datasets Including the Batch Forward Search
Authors: Torti Francesca , Corbellini Aldo , Atkinson Anthony C.
Published: April 2021

The forward search (FS) is a general method of robust data fitting that moves smoothly from very robust to maximum likelihood estimation. The regression procedures are included in the MATLAB toolbox FSDA. The work on a SAS version of the FS originates from the need for the analysis of large datasets expressed by law enforcement services operating in the European Union that use our SAS software for detecting data anomalies that may point to fraudulent customs returns. Specific to our SAS implementation, the fsdaSAS package, we describe the approximation used to provide fast analyses of large datasets using an FS which progresses through the inclusion of batches of observations, rather than progressing one observation at a time. We do, however, test for outliers one observation at a time. We demonstrate that our SAS implementation becomes appreciably faster than the MATLAB version as the sample size increases and is also able to analyse larger datasets. The series of fits provided by the FS leads to the adaptive data-dependent choice of maximally efficient robust estimates. This also allows the monitoring of residuals and parameter estimates for fits of differing robustness levels. We mention that our fsdaSAS also applies the idea of monitoring to several robust estimators for regression for a range of values of breakdown point or nominal efficiency, leading to adaptive values for these parameters. We have also provided a variety of plots linked through brushing. Further programmed analyses include the robust transformations of the response in regression. Our package also provides the SAS community with methods of monitoring robust estimators for multivariate data, including multivariate data transformations.
Modelling Tourists’ Acceptance of Hotel Experience-Enhancement Smart Technologies
Authors: Han Donglin , Hou Huiying (Cynthia) , Wu Hao , Lai Joseph H. K.
Published: April 2021

Whereas the use of specific smart technologies in various sectors of the tourism industry has been under greater scrutiny in recent years, research that investigates tourists’ acceptance of smart technologies applied as a whole to hotels is largely underexplored. To address this shortfall, a study with a focus on tourists’ acceptance of experience-enhancement smart technologies has been conducted. A technology acceptance model based conceptual framework was developed, followed by a series of interviews with the managerial staff of ten hotels in Hong Kong that adopt experience-enhancement smart technologies. Based on the interview findings, a questionnaire was designed for use in a survey in which data were collected face-to-face from 312 tourists. Structural equation modelling was utilised to reveal the interrelationships between nine technology acceptance parameters. This study contributes knowledge to both real-world practice and research in tourism management.
The Dynamics of Public Perceptions and Climate Change in Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Bacha Muhammad Suleman , Muhammad Muhammad , Kılıç Zeyneb , Nafees Muhammad
Published: April 2021

With rising temperatures, developing countries are exposed to the horrors of climate change more than ever. The poor infrastructure and low adaptation capabilities of these nations are the prime concern of current studies. Pakistan is vulnerable to climate-induced hazards including floods, droughts, water shortages, shifts in weather patterns, loss of biodiversity, melting of glaciers, and more in the coming years. For marginal societies dependent on natural resources, adaptation becomes a challenge and the utmost priority. Within the above context, this study was designed to fill the existing research gap concerning public knowledge of climate vulnerabilities and respective adaptation strategies in the northern Hindukush–Himalayan region of Pakistan. Using the stratified sampling technique, 25 union councils (wards) were selected from the nine tehsils (sub-districts) of the study area. Using the quantitative method approach, structured questionnaires were employed to collect data from 396 respondents. The study reveals varying public perceptions about different factors contributing to the causes and impacts of climate change and the sources of information in the three zones of the study area. The primary causes of climate change are deforestation, industrial waste, anthropogenic impurities, natural causes, and the burning of fossil fuels exacerbated by increased population. Changes in temperature, erratic rainfalls, floods, droughts, receding glaciers, and extreme weather events are some of the impacts observed over the past decades. While limiting the indiscriminate use of fossil fuels combined with government-assisted rehabilitation of forests can help combat climate change, the lack of proper education and economic, social, and governance barriers are hindering the local adaptation strategies. In addition, reduce environmental pollution (air, water, soil, etc.) and plantation polluted areas with suitable plants, are the two main actions in combating climate change. This study recommends policy interventions to enhance local adaptation efforts through building capacity, equipping local environmental institutions, discouraging deforestation, and ensuring sustainable use of natural resources.
GIS Distance Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic (Students’ Perception)
Authors: Vojteková Jana , Tirpáková Anna , Gonda Dalibor , Žoncová Michaela , Vojtek Matej
Published: April 2021

The paper deals with distance learning of geographic information systems (GIS) at the Department of Geography and Regional Development FNS CPU in Nitra using various educational materials and the JitsiMeet application during the COVID-19 pandemic. Students of bachelor study had GIS lessons in face-to-face instruction in a computer room for half of a semester. In the middle of the semester, the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in Slovakia and the face-to-face instruction had to be reoriented to the distance form of learning. The first month of distance learning took place with the help of textbooks and video tutorials, which were sent to students. The task of the students that month was to study a new subject, then students were sent a questionnaire where they had to express their opinion on learning GIS using video tutorials and textbooks, but also indicate whether they had facilities for online learning (PC, audio and video outputs, Internet) as well as to express their views and experiences with online learning as such. Although after evaluating the questionnaire, up to 71% of students answered that they had learned a new subject from the video tutorials and 57% also from GIS textbooks, several percent of students were still unfit for this form of learning. That is why we went to lessons with the free JitsyMeet app, which allows for video conferencing, screen sharing, chat, and more. The aim of the paper is to point out the perception of distance GIS learning by university students during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Potential of a New Commercial Seaweed Extract in Stimulating Morpho-Agronomic and Bioactive Properties of Eruca vesicaria (L.) Cav.
Authors: Hassan Shimaa M. , Ashour Mohamed , Soliman Ahmed A. F. , Hassanien Hesham A. , Alsanie Walaa F. , Gaber Ahmed , Elshobary Mostafa E.
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to understand the effect of commercial seaweed extract as a biofertilizer, named True-Algae-Max (TAM®), on the yield, nutritional, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activity of Eruca vesicaria. Three concentrations of TAM® (5, 10, and 15%) were studied by foliar spray over the two cultivation years (2016 and 2017) without any chemical fertilizer, along with a control consisting of synthetic nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) fertilizers. The yield and composition of E. vesicaria were significantly improved in all treatments, particularly at 10% concentration of TAM®, which resulted in maximum yield (1.99 kg m−2) and significant amounts of chlorophyll, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids and total nutrients. Compared to the NPK control, E. vesicaria grown with 10% of TAM® improved total antioxidant activity from 41.80 to 49.36 mg g−1 and cytotoxicity from 25.30 to 60.40% with an IC50 value 85.7 µg mL−1 against the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (HepG2). These findings indicate that seaweed extract can generally be used as a safe potential multifunctional biofertilizer in the agricultural field. The use of seaweed as a biofertilizer could potentially help mitigate the adverse effects of main nutrient deficiencies, diminishing the use of chemical fertilizers.
Creativity and Resilience as Predictors of Career Success
Authors: Fernández-Díaz José Ramón , Gutiérrez-Ortega Mónica , Llamas-Salguero Fátima , Cantón-Mayo Isabel
Published: April 2021

Achieving success in today’s society is becoming an increasingly complex endeavor. People must have high levels of creativity and resilience in order to constantly adapt to changing situations and, at the same time, maintain the necessary tenacity and enthusiasm to continue despite failures. This research aims to identify the different characteristics of people with high levels of objective career success, subjective career success, resilience, and creativity, and analyze their relationship with the achievement of career success. The sample consisted of 200 people from six professional categories (unemployed, managers, influencers, entrepreneurs, employees, and professors) in Spain. The questionnaire (EX. P/RE/CRE—professional success, resilience, and creativity) that was designed for this study was used to collect the data. The results suggest that a person with high levels of creativity and/or resilience is more prepared to achieve professional success from both an objective and subjective perspective. The study’s conclusions support the correlations between the terms and describe the characteristics and conditions of the successful, resilient, and/or creative person.
Interdisciplinary Reservoir Management—A Tool for Sustainable Water Resources Management
Authors: Daus Milan , Koberger Katharina , Koca Kaan , Beckers Felix , Encinas Fernández Jorge , Weisbrod Barbara , Dietrich Daniel , Gerbersdorf Sabine Ulrike , Glaser Rüdiger , Haun Stefan , Hofmann Hilmar , Martin-Creuzburg Dominik , Peeters Frank , Wieprecht Silke
Published: April 2021

Reservoirs are a common way to store and retain water serving for a multitude of purposes like storage of drinking and irrigation water, recreation, flood protection, navigation, and hydropower production, and have been built since centuries. Today, few reservoirs serve only one purpose, which requires management of present demands and interests. Since each reservoir project will cause negative impacts alongside desired advantages both on a local, regional and global scale, it is even more urgent to develop a common management framework in an attempt to mitigate negative impacts, incorporate different demands and make them visible within the discourse in order to avoid conflicts from early on. The scientific publications on reservoirs are manifold, yet a comprehensive and integrative holistic tool about management of this infrastructure is not available. Therefore, a comprehensive and integrated conceptual tool was developed and proposed by the authors of this paper that can contribute to the sustainable management of existing reservoirs. The tool presented herein is based on the results from the interdisciplinary CHARM (CHAllenges of Reservoir Management) project as well as the condensed outcome of relevant literature to aid and enhance knowledge of reservoir management. The incorporated results are based on field, laboratory and empirical social research. The project CHARM focused on five different aspects related to existing reservoirs in southern Germany (Schwarzenbachtalsperre, Franconian Lake District), namely: sedimentation of reservoirs, biostabilisation of fine sediments, toxic cyanobacteria(l) (blooms), greenhouse gas emissions from reservoirs and social contestation, respectively consent. These five research foci contributed to the topics and setup of a conceptual tool, put together by the research consortium via delphi questioning, which can be found alongside this publication to provide insights for experts and laymen. Conceptualising and analysing the management in combination with quantitative and qualitative data in one descriptive tool presents a novelty for the case studies and area of research. The distribution within the scientific community and interested public will possibly make a positive contribution to the goal of sustainable water resources management in the future.
Applying Values-Led Communication Design to Engage Stakeholders in Developing Dementia-Friendly Visitor Destinations
Authors: Wu Chih-Shiang (Mike) , Sung Tung-Jung (David)
Published: April 2021

Developing dementia-friendly visitor destinations (DFVDs) has been acknowledged as essential for maintaining quality of life for people with dementia (PwD) and carers. While research has identified the lack of sufficient information as one of the major barriers in DFVD development, this study argues that the underlying problem comes from poor communication promoting this social vision. Values have a significant impact on stakeholders’ communication. By working with values, the stakeholders may uncover latent issues through an authentic dialog, helping them shape meaningful design directions and find ways of working together. Accordingly, this study proposes a 3 × 3 matrix of values-led communication design and presents an action research. The results suggest that the vertical axis, negotiation for values, can act as agonistic space for stakeholders to uncover values and make appropriate decisions. The horizontal axis is constituted by a systematic communication process of design for value proposition, design for value-in-context, and design for value constellation to facilitate stakeholders in integrating their core competences and construct the value creation system for DFVD development. Through these two axes of values-led communication design, the stakeholders can transfer their knowledge and assets into new social practice, usage, and dissemination, thereby increasing societies’ ability to act.
The Effect of Plants on the Energy Output of Green Roof Photovoltaic Systems in Tropical Climates
Authors: Kaewpraek Chila , Ali Liaqat , Rahman Md. Arefin , Shakeri Mohammad , Chowdhury M. S. , Jamal M. S. , Mia Md. Shahin , Pasupuleti Jagadeesh , Dong Le Khac , Techato Kuaanan
Published: April 2021

The rapid rise in the number of fossil fuel uses over the last few decades has increased carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The purpose of implementing renewable energy solutions, such as solar, hydro, wind, biomass, and other renewable energy sources, is to mitigate global climate change worldwide. Solar energy has received more attention over the last few decades as an alternative source of energy, and it can play an essential role in the future of the energy industry. This is especially true of energy solutions that reduce land use, such as off-grid and on-grid solar rooftop technologies. This study aims to evaluate the energy conversion efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) systems in tropical environments. It also explores the effect of growing plants beneath PV panels. Two identical grid-connected PV systems—each containing five solar panels—were installed. The overall power production of each PV system was about 1.4 kWp. All the collected data were processed and analysed in the same way and by the same method. The PV systems were installed in two different environments—one with the possibility of growing the plants beneath the PV panels (PViGR module) and one with no possibility of growing the plants beneath the PV panels (PViSR module). The experiments were conducted in the Bo Yang District of Songkhla, Thailand over a 12-month period. Our findings indicate that green roof photovoltaic (GRPV) systems can produce around 2100 kWh of electricity in comparison to the 2000 kWh produced by other solar energy systems. Thereby, growing plants beneath PV panels increases electricity production efficiency by around 2%. This difference comes from the growing of plants underneath GRPV systems. Plants do not only help to trap humidity underneath GRPV systems but also help to cool the PV panels by absorbing the temperature beneath GRPV systems. Thus, in the production of electrical energy; the system was clearly showing significant differences in the mentioned results of both PV solar systems, which are evident for great energy efficiency performances in the future.
Analysis of Heavy Metal Content in Soil and Plants in the Dumping Ground of Magnesite Mining Factory Jelšava-Lubeník (Slovakia)
Authors: Štofejová Lenka , Fazekaš Juraj , Fazekašová Danica
Published: April 2021

A high content of heavy metals in the soil and plants of a magnesite mining area might cause serious damage to the environment and can be a threat to the health of the surrounding population. This paper presents the results of research that focused on analyzing the heavy metal content in soil and plants in the dumping grounds of the magnesite mining factory Jelšava-Lubeník (Slovakia). The analysis focused on the content of heavy metals in soil (X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, atomic absorption spectrometry), in plants (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry), and pH (1M KCl solution). The results showed that the soil in the study area was slightly acidic to strongly alkaline and the content of Cr, As, Mn, and Mg exceeded by several times the limit values for the Slovak Republic. The results of the hierarchical cluster analysis and the correlation analysis show that the grouped metals come from the same sources of pollution. The content of heavy metals in plants was high and the highest concentration was found in the roots of Elytrigia repens > Agrostis stolonifera > Phragmites australis and flowers of Phragmites australis. The findings confirmed the suitability of the used plants in the process of phytoextraction and phytostabilization. The acquired knowledge can help in planning and realization remediation measures and improve the state of the environment in areas exposed to magnesite mining.
Educational Needs and Resources for Teachers Working with Students with Chronic Pain: Results of a Delphi Study
Authors: Castarlenas Elena , Roy Rubén , Salvat Isabel , Montesó-Curto Pilar , Miró Jordi
Published: April 2021

Children and adolescents spend most of their time at school. Therefore, teachers could be of help to improve the quality of life of students with chronic pain while they are at school. The aim of this study was to identify teachers’ educational needs and resources to help improve the adjustment to and function in the school of students with chronic pain. A Delphi survey including two rounds was conducted. Overall, 49 needs were identified in the first round. They were related to education, training, organization/logistics, and communication with the family and the health care center. Among the most important needs, based on the importance given and consensus reached, were (1) having information about the most appropriate attitudes and responses to a student with chronic pain, (2) how to reduce absenteeism, (3) how to ease the return to school after a long absence due to his or her pain problem, and (4) how to establish effective communication with the family. The results of this study provide new important data on the educational needs and resources which teachers would like to have to help their students with chronic pain at school, which could be used to develop educative programs for teachers.
Working Capital Management Policies in Indian Listed Firms: A State-Wise Analysis
Authors: Farhan Najib H. S , Almaqtari Faozi A. , Al-Matari Ebrahim Mohammed , SENAN Nabil Ahmed M. , Alahdal Waleed M. , Hazaea Saddam A.
Published: April 2021

The main aim of this paper is to evaluate the impact of working capital policies on firms’ profitability. The study uses a panel data set of 829 manufacturing firms for the period from 2011 to 2017. Data is extracted from Prowess IQ database. An empirical model is used for testing research hypotheses. The results show that all firms across Indian states follow conservative financing and investment policy. The conservative investment policy positively affects return on assets, whereas the conservative financing policy negatively affects return on assets and therefore firms’ financial sustainability. Regulators, policymakers, investors, and financial managers in Indian manufacturing companies are advised to follow a conservative investment and financing policy, which is effective and efficient in boosting firms’ profitability for attaining financial sustainability. Therefore, manufacturing firms should invest more in current assets, because they need to expand both inventories and trade credit to their customers. Moreover, financial managers are advised to favor a low level of debt in financing assets. Apart from previous literature, which was either descriptive or based on a small sample size, the present study makes a novel and significant contribution by bridging an existing gap through applying a panel fixed- and random-effect model for a large sample: 829 firms. Furthermore, the business environment in India is somewhat different from that of other countries around the globe, which makes investigating working capital policies in the Indian contexts an interesting endeavor.
Does GATS’ Influence on Private University Sector’s Growth Ensure ESD or Develop City ‘Sustainability Crisis’—Policy Framework to Respond COP21
Authors: Alam Gazi Mahabubul , Roslan Samsilah , Al-Amin Abul Quasem , Leal Filho Walter
Published: April 2021

The conventions and ratifications made by the United Nations (UN) have a long history. They were well respected for their ability to unite the world’s countries on some issues. The paradigm transformation of UN ratifications to combine both business models and social justice has received both positive and negative responses. While adherents argue that such a transformation is fundamental to boost economic development, opponents assert that the ‘so-called paradigm transformation’ has benefited the West by victimising the East, which has essentially complicated the global ‘sustainability crisis’. This also hinders executing the ESD (education for sustainable development) concept, especially in developing countries. The concept of ‘sustainable development’ is now the main agenda item of UN conventions. COP21 (United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2015, otherwise known as the 21st Conference of the Parties), is an example of the UN’s seriousness in addressing the ‘global sustainability crisis’. GATT and GATS are the international policies that are, respectively, the ‘causer’ and ‘developer’ of the private university sector in emerging market economies. Critics claim that this expanding sector generates an urban sustainability crisis. This study examined the effect of private universities’ expansion on urban sustainability, using a qualitative method for assessing primary and secondary data. The indices for night light intensity, heat and greenery served as the essential parameters to calculate the sustainability crisis. Results indicate that while the greenery index has fallen significantly, night light and heat indices have unexpectedly increased, which correlate with the development and expansion of the private university sector. To respond to COP21, a ‘carbon neutrality’ policy framework for the sector is suggested in an effort to control the sustainability crisis.
Effects of Olive Mill Vegetation Water Phenol Metabolites Transferred to Muscle through Animal Diet on Rabbit Meat Microbial Quality
Authors: Branciari Raffaella , Galarini Roberta , Trabalza-Marinucci Massimo , Miraglia Dino , Roila Rossana , Acuti Gabriele , Giusepponi Danilo , Dal Bosco Alessandro , Ranucci David
Published: April 2021

The present study evaluated the effects of feed supplementation with olive oil by-products on the microbial quality of rabbit meat. Thirty-three New Zealand White rabbits were randomly assigned to three experimental grower–finisher diets. Each dietary group consisted of three experimental treatments: (1) a basal control diet (C), (2) a C diet supplemented with a low dosage of polyphenol (150 mg/kg, L), and (3) a C diet supplemented with a high dose of polyphenols (280 mg/kg, H). Polyphenol analyses in feed and meat were performed using the liquid-chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry technique (LC-MS/MS). Higher amounts of sulphate metabolites were detected in the H group. Microbiological quality was evaluated on Longissimus lumborum muscles stored under aerobic conditions at 4 °C. The H diet exerted an inhibitory effect on microbial growth (p < 0.001), notably for Pseudomonas spp., when compared to C and L diets; differences among the groups were observed starting from 6 days of storage. In the H group, the Pseudomonas spp. population showed an increase in the latency phase and a decrease in the maximum growth rate of the fitted curves in comparison with the C and L groups. The use of dietary polyphenols could be a strategy to reduce spoilage during meat storage.
Knowledge Production and Land Relations in the Bioeconomy. A Case Study on the Brazilian Sugar-Bioenergy Sector
Authors: Backhouse Maria , Lorenzen Kristina
Published: April 2021

National bioeconomy strategies aim for a comprehensive transition from a fossil-based to a biomass-based economy. One common feature of the strategies is the optimistic reliance on technology as main tool in order to overcome the socio-ecological crisis. From the critical perspectives of political ecology and the political economy of research and innovation, technologies and technological innovations are not neutral solutions to the problem; they are generally socially embedded. Against this backdrop, we contextualise the technological innovations that support a more climate-friendly production of ethanol on a sugarcane basis, building on a field research in the more recently developed cultivation areas in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. In doing so, we explore the co-production of the green framing of the sector in combination with technologies for a more climate-friendly agriculture and the political economy of land. Our investigation shows that the bioeconomy in the sugar-ethanol sector perpetuates the socio-ecological problems associated with the agricultural sector. These socio-ecological problems range from the increasing concentration of landownership to the negative impact of agrotoxins.
Optimized Design of Structure of High-Bending-Rigidity Circular Tube
Authors: Li Shaoying , Qu Zhongquan
Published: April 2021

Circular tubes are widely used in daily life and manufacture under bending load. The structural parameters of a circular tube, such as its wall thickness, number and shapes of ribs, and supporting flanges, are closely related to the tube’s bending rigidity. In this study, a tube with eight ribs and a flange was optimized, in order to obtain the lowest weight, through comprehensive structural optimization. We obtained the optimal structural parameters of the tube and the influence of the structural parameters on the tube’s weight. The structural parameters of tubes with different numbers of ribs were optimized. The tube with different number of ribs had the same inner diameter, bending load, and length as the tube with eight ribs. We conducted an experiment to verify the structural optimization simulation. Different tube sizes were subsequently optimized. The optimized tube with four trapezoidal ribs and a flange reduced the weight by more than 73% while maintaining the same deformation. The weight of the optimized tube with a flange reached a stable value after four trapezoidal ribs were added. When the number of ribs was two, the weight was the largest. The analysis results were consistent with the numerical results. A new AWATR (appropriate width and thickness of ribs can improve the bending rigidity of the tubes) formula was proposed, which can effectively improve the bending rigidity of tubes. Different shapes of tubes were optimized and compared. The optimized tube with four trapezoidal ribs and a flange was the lightest and easy to manufacture.
Effects of Shelter Forests on Soil Organic Carbon of Irrigated Soils in the Taklimakan Desert
Authors: Ma Xuexi , Jin Zhengzhong , Wang Yingju , Lei Jiaqiang
Published: April 2021

An experiment was carried out to test the effects of artificial vegetation on soil organic carbon in sandy soil. The soils were collected from the Taklimakan desert highway shelter forests with different stand age (the stand ages are 5, 7, 10, 13, 16, respectively, and three shrubs named Calligonum mongolicunl, Tamarix chinensis and Haloxylon ammodendron were planted along the highway) in Xinjiang, northwest of China. The soil organic carbon stock in soil vertical layers were calculated. We measured four passive organic carbons (i.e., micro-aggregates organic carbon, humic organic carbon, acid-resistant organic carbon and antioxidant organic carbon). Furthermore, we analyzed the correlations and ratios among the different passive organic carbons. Finally, the chemical composition of humus was detected and the relative contents of C=O and CH groups were determined. The main results showed that, (1) the soil organic carbon and organic carbon stock were decreased with the increase of depth, mainly in 0–50 cm. (2) With the increase of stand age, only in Tamarix chinensis forest, the total soil organic carbon stock increased a little. (3) Total soil organic carbon had more closely correlation with contents of micro-aggregate organic carbon and humic organic carbon. (4) C=O/C-O-C increased a little after 10 years; CH/C-O-C had no obvious change with stand age; CH2/CH3 did not change obviously after 13 years. The Tamarix chinensis forest is the most helpful for carbon sequestration in sandy soil and stabilization in surface layer than Calligonum mongolicunl and Haloxylon ammodendron.
Flexible Workflow for Determining Critical Hazard and Exposure Scenarios for Assessing SLODs Risk in Urban Built Environments
Authors: Blanco Cadena Juan Diego , Salvalai Graziano , Lucesoli Michele , Quagliarini Enrico , D’Orazio Marco
Published: April 2021

Urban Built Environments (UBE) are increasingly prone to SLow-Onset Disasters (SLODs) such as air pollution and heatwaves. The effectiveness of sustainable risk-mitigation solutions for the exposed individuals’ health should be defined by considering the effective scenarios in which emergency conditions can appear. Combining environmental (including climatic) conditions and exposed users’ presence and behaviors is a paramount task to support decision-makers in risk assessment. A clear definition of input scenarios and related critical conditions to be analyzed is needed, especially while applying simulation-based approaches. This work provides a methodology to fill this gap, based on hazard and exposure peaks identification. Quick and remote data-collection is adopted to speed up the process and promote the method application by low-trained specialists. Results firstly trace critical conditions by overlapping air pollution and heatwaves occurrence in the UBE. Exposure peaks (identified by remote analyses on the intended use of UBEs) are then merged to retrieve critical conditions due to the presence of the individuals over time and UBE spaces. The application to a significant case study (UBE in Milan, Italy) demonstrates the approach capabilities to identify key input scenarios for future human behavior simulation activities from a user-centered approach.
Ecosystem-Based Food Production: Consumers′ Preferred Practices and Willingness to Buy and Pay
Authors: Pouta Eija , Liski Eero , Tienhaara Annika , Koikkalainen Kauko , Miettinen Antti
Published: April 2021

Ecosystem-based agricultural practices that utilize ecosystem processes aim to either reduce the negative externalities of agricultural production or increase the production of ecosystem services other than food provision. We examined consumer interest in buying and paying for food produced using ecosystem-based agricultural practices. According to the results, the most preferred practices were the more efficient use of livestock manure, the use of nitrogen-fixing crops, biological pest control, and the addition of soil carbon. Having these practices as an attribute of a food product increased the interest in buying the product for 43% of consumers. Their median willingness to pay (WTP) was 20% higher than for conventional products. Using socioeconomic and attitudinal variables, a hurdle model revealed the characteristics of a consumer segment interested in ecosystem-based agricultural practices.
Interior Design with Consumers’ Perception about Art, Brand Image, and Sustainability
Authors: Kim Jeongah , Heo Wookjae
Published: April 2021

In this study, the main research purpose was to determine whether artistic components of interior design in a store lead consumers to have different perceptions of the store. There were three main research questions. The first was whether consumers perceived the artistic components in a store visually. Second, based on the first research question, this study explored whether the artistic displays at the show window, around the furniture, and around the stairs were associated with consumers’ perceptions of the store as environmental-friendly. The third research question explored how the consumers’ perceptions of artistic and environment-friendly components were associated with the conventional marketing performance of the store. The 2 Stages Probit Least Squares (2SPLS) method was utilized to answer the first and second research questions and the 2 Stage Least Squares (2SLS) method was utilized for the third research question. Findings indicated that consumers had significant emotional responses from seeing artistic components in a store. In addition, these perceived art elements were associated with marketing performances, including pro-environmental perception, store differentiation, brand image, and consumer satisfaction. The practical implications were included in the discussion.
The Role of Self- and Informant-Reports on Symptoms and Impairments in the Clinical Evaluation of Adult ADHD
Authors: Guo Nana , Fuermaier Anselm B. M. , Koerts Janneke , Mueller Bernhard W. , Mette Christian , Tucha Lara , Scherbaum Norbert , Tucha Oliver
Published: April 2021

Little is known about which clinical features may aid the differentiation between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other clinical conditions. This study seeks to determine the role of self- and informant reports on symptoms and impairments in the clinical evaluation of adult ADHD and explore their association with objective neuropsychological test performance by examining data of 169 outpatients referred for a diagnostic evaluation of adult ADHD. Participants were assigned either to an ADHD group (ADHD, n = 73) or one of two clinical comparison groups, depending on whether they show indications (Clinical Comparison Group, CCG, n = 53) or no indications (Clinical Comparison Group—Not Diagnosed, CCG-ND, n = 43) of psychiatric disorders other than ADHD. All participants and their informants completed a set of questionnaires. Compared to the CCG-ND, the ADHD group obtained significantly higher scores on ADHD symptoms, impulsivity, cognitive deficits, and anxiety. Compared to the CCG, the ADHD group scored significantly higher on ADHD symptoms but lower on depression. Further regression analyses revealed that self- and informant reports failed to predict neuropsychological test performance. Self- and informant reported information may be distinct features and do not correspond to results of objective neuropsychological testing.
Convolutional Neural Network for Crowd Counting on Metro Platforms
Authors: Zhang Jun , Liu Jiaze , Wang Zhizhong
Published: April 2021

Owing to the increased use of urban rail transit, the flow of passengers on metro platforms tends to increase sharply during peak periods. Monitoring passenger flow in such areas is important for security-related reasons. In this paper, in order to solve the problem of metro platform passenger flow detection, we propose a CNN (convolutional neural network)-based network called the MP (metro platform)-CNN to accurately count people on metro platforms. The proposed method is composed of three major components: a group of convolutional neural networks is used on the front end to extract image features, a multiscale feature extraction module is used to enhance multiscale features, and transposed convolution is used for upsampling to generate a high-quality density map. Currently, existing crowd-counting datasets do not adequately cover all of the challenging situations considered in this study. Therefore, we collected images from surveillance videos of a metro platform to form a dataset containing 627 images, with 9243 annotated heads. The results of the extensive experiments showed that our method performed well on the self-built dataset and the estimation error was minimum. Moreover, the proposed method could compete with other methods on four standard crowd-counting datasets.
Identical Limb Dynamics for Unilateral Impairments through Biomechanical Equivalence
Authors: Rasouli Fatemeh , Reed Kyle B.
Published: April 2021

Dynamic models, such as double pendulums, can generate similar dynamics as human limbs. They are versatile tools for simulating and analyzing the human walking cycle and performance under various conditions. They include multiple links, hinges, and masses that represent physical parameters of a limb or an assistive device. This study develops a mathematical model of dissimilar double pendulums that mimics human walking with unilateral gait impairment and establishes identical dynamics between asymmetric limbs. It introduces new coefficients that create biomechanical equivalence between two sides of an asymmetric gait. The numerical solution demonstrates that dissimilar double pendulums can have symmetric kinematic and kinetic outcomes. Parallel solutions with different physical parameters but similar biomechanical coefficients enable interchangeable designs that could be incorporated into gait rehabilitation treatments or alternative prosthetic and ambulatory assistive devices.
Investigation of the k-Analogue of Gauss Hypergeometric Functions Constructed by the Hadamard Product
Authors: Abdalla Mohamed , Hidan Muajebah
Published: April 2021

Traditionally, the special function theory has many applications in various areas of mathematical physics, economics, statistics, engineering, and many other branches of science. Inspired by certain recent extensions of the k-analogue of gamma, the Pochhammer symbol, and hypergeometric functions, this work is devoted to the study of the k-analogue of Gauss hypergeometric functions by the Hadamard product. We give a definition of the Hadamard product of k-Gauss hypergeometric functions (HPkGHF) associated with the fourth numerator and two denominator parameters. In addition, convergence properties are derived from this function. We also discuss interesting properties such as derivative formulae, integral representations, and integral transforms including beta transform and Laplace transform. Furthermore, we investigate some contiguous function relations and differential equations connecting the HPkGHF. The current results are more general than previous ones. Moreover, the proposed results are useful in the theory of k-special functions where the hypergeometric function naturally occurs.
Wire Tension Coordination Control of Electro-Hydraulic Servo Driven Double-Rope Winding Hoisting Systems Using a Hybrid Controller Combining the Flatness-Based Control and a Disturbance Observer
Authors: Li Xiang , Zhu Zhencai , Shen Gang , Tang Yu
Published: April 2021

When the double-rope winding hoisting system (DWHS) is in operation, tensions of two wire ropes of the DWHS will not be symmetrical because of some factors such as different manufacturing deviation between the twin winding drum and two wire ropes, different winding groove depths, the winding asynchronism of two wire ropes, and elastic modulus difference of two wire ropes and so on. Therefore, an electro-hydraulic servo system (EHSS) is employed to actively control two wire ropes tensions to guarantee operation security of the DWHS. Dynamic models of the hoisting system and the EHSS are introduced, of which dynamic model of the DWHS is expressed with state representation. The flatness-based controller (FBC) is designed for the hoisting system. A disturbance observer is utilized to deal with the external disturbance and unmodeled characteristics of the EHSS. Hence, a disturbance observer based integral backstepping controller (DO-BIBC) is designed for the EHSS. The stability of the overall control system is proved by de-fining an overall Lyapunov function. To investigate the property of the proposed controller, an experimental setup of the DWHS is established. As well, comparative experimental results indicate that the proposed controller exhibits a better performance on leveling control of the conveyance and tension coordination control on the two wire ropes than a conventional PI controller.
Power Laws Derived from a Bayesian Decision-Making Model in Non-Stationary Environments
Authors: Shinohara Shuji , Manome Nobuhito , Nakajima Yoshihiro , Gunji Yukio Pegio , Moriyama Toru , Okamoto Hiroshi , Mitsuyoshi Shunji , Chung Ung-il
Published: April 2021

The frequency of occurrence of step length in the migratory behaviour of various organisms, including humans, is characterized by the power law distribution. This pattern of behaviour is known as the Lévy walk, and the reason for this phenomenon has been investigated extensively. Especially in humans, one possibility might be that this pattern reflects the change in self-confidence in one’s chosen behaviour. We used simulations to demonstrate that active assumptions cause changes in the confidence level in one’s choice under a situation of lack of information. More specifically, we presented an algorithm that introduced the effects of learning and forgetting into Bayesian inference, and simulated an imitation game in which two decision-making agents incorporating the algorithm estimated each other’s internal models. For forgetting without learning, each agents’ confidence levels in their own estimation remained low owing to a lack of information about the counterpart, and the agents changed their hypotheses about the opponent frequently, and the frequency distribution of the duration of the hypotheses followed an exponential distribution for a wide range of forgetting rates. Conversely, when learning was introduced, high confidence levels occasionally occurred even at high forgetting rates, and exponential distributions universally turned into power law distribution.
Non-Enzymatic Desymmetrization Reactions in Aqueous Media
Authors: Niwayama Satomi
Published: April 2021

Symmetric organic compounds are generally obtained inexpensively, and therefore they can be attractive building blocks for the total synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and natural products. The drawback is that discriminating the identical functional groups in the symmetric compounds is difficult. Water is the most environmentally benign and inexpensive solvent. However, successful organic reactions in water are rather limited due to the hydrophobicity of organic compounds in general. Therefore, desymmetrization reactions in aqueous media are expected to offer versatile strategies for the synthesis of a variety of significant organic compounds. This review focuses on the recent progress of desymmetrization reactions of symmetric organic compounds in aqueous media without utilizing enzymes.
Quantum Orbit Method in the Presence of Symmetries
Authors: Ciccoli Nicola
Published: April 2021

We review some of the main achievements of the orbit method, when applied to Poisson–Lie groups and Poisson homogeneous spaces or spaces with an invariant Poisson structure. We consider C∗-algebra quantization obtained through groupoid techniques, and we try to put the results obtained in algebraic or representation theoretical contexts in relation with groupoid quantization.
Feedback Control for a Diffusive and Delayed Brusselator Model: Semi-Analytical Solutions
Authors: Alfifi Hassan Yahya
Published: April 2021

This paper describes the stability and Hopf bifurcation analysis of the Brusselator system with delayed feedback control in the single domain of a reaction–diffusion cell. The Galerkin analytical technique is used to present a system equation composed of ordinary differential equations. The condition able to determine the Hopf bifurcation point is found. Full maps of the Hopf bifurcation regions for the interacting chemical species are shown and discussed, indicating that the time delay, feedback control, and diffusion parameters can play a significant and important role in the stability dynamics of the two concentration reactants in the system. As a result, these parameters can be changed to destabilize the model. The results show that the Hopf bifurcation points for chemical control increase as the feedback parameters increase, whereas the Hopf bifurcation points decrease when the diffusion parameters increase. Bifurcation diagrams with examples of periodic oscillation and phase-plane maps are provided to confirm all the outcomes calculated in the model. The benefits and accuracy of this work show that there is excellent agreement between the analytical results and numerical simulation scheme for all the figures and examples that are illustrated.
New Method for Generating New Families of Distributions
Authors: Baharith Lamya A. , Aljuhani Wedad H.
Published: April 2021

This article presents a new method for generating distributions. This method combines two techniques—the transformed—transformer and alpha power transformation approaches—allowing for tremendous flexibility in the resulting distributions. The new approach is applied to introduce the alpha power Weibull—exponential distribution. The density of this distribution can take asymmetric and near-symmetric shapes. Various asymmetric shapes, such as decreasing, increasing, L-shaped, near-symmetrical, and right-skewed shapes, are observed for the related failure rate function, making it more tractable for many modeling applications. Some significant mathematical features of the suggested distribution are determined. Estimates of the unknown parameters of the proposed distribution are obtained using the maximum likelihood method. Furthermore, some numerical studies were carried out, in order to evaluate the estimation performance. Three practical datasets are considered to analyze the usefulness and flexibility of the introduced distribution. The proposed alpha power Weibull–exponential distribution can outperform other well-known distributions, showing its great adaptability in the context of real data analysis.