bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acid Treated Montmorillonite—Eco-Friendly Clay as Catalyst in Carvone Isomerization to Carvacrol
Authors: Vrbková Eva , Šímová Adéla , Vyskočilová Eliška , Lhotka Miloslav , Červený Libor
Published: November 2021

Acid-treated montmorillonites (MMT) were used as catalysts of carvone isomerization to carvacrol. Mineral acids—sulfuric, hydrochloric, nitric acids and organic acids (acetic and chloroacetic)—were used for the acid treatment. Prepared materials were characterized by available characterization methods, namely XRD, EA, TPD, TPO, UV-Vis, laser light scattering and nitrogen physisorption. The structure of montmorillonite remained intact after treatment. However, TPD proved the increase of acidity of acid-treated materials comparing pure montmorillonite. All materials were tested in the isomerization of carvone, producing carvacrol as the desired product. The initial reaction rate increased using the materials in the row MMT-COOH < MMT-HNO3 < MMT-ClCOOH < MMT-H2SO4 < MMT-HCl, which is in accordance with the pKa of acids used for the treatment. The number of weak acid sites strongly influenced the selectivity to carvacrol. The optimal solvent for the reaction was toluene. Total conversion of carvone and the selectivity to carvacrol 95.5% was achieved within 24 h under 80 °C, with toluene as solvent and montmorillonite treated by chloroacetic acid as catalyst. The catalyst may be reused after calcination with only a low loss of activity.
The Earth as “Mother of Men” in Latter-Day Saint Theology
Authors: Tolley Kevin L.
Published: November 2021

Following the completion of work on the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith began his work on expanding the Bible’s scope. Unlike many of his contemporary Bible thinkers who were also working on translations of the Bible, Smith expanded the text in unique ways, breathing life into archaic and mysterious figures and developing themes far beyond the Biblical scope. Within the first year of the Church of Jesus Christ, Smith introduced significant information concerning a vision of the pseudepigraphical character of Enoch and additional information concerning the creation narrative. These additions give insight into Smith’s understanding of his theology and his views on the environment. These additional writings connect environmental care and social injustice. The unique theological implication is that the treatment of the marginalized and downtrodden is closely related to the environment.
Songs of Dissent and Consciousness: Pronouncements of the Bauls of Rural Bengal
Authors: Dutta Uttaran , Banerjee Panchali , Ghosh Soham , Ghosal Priyam , Srimany Samya , Mukherjee Sahana
Published: November 2021

Bauls, the wandering minstrels of rural Bengal (of both Bangladesh and India), are a socio-religiously marginalized cultural group. While the ritualistic practices and spiritual discourses of the Bauls have received scholarly attention, scholarship on Bauls’ songs about material and communicative adversities and their emancipatory visions is lacking. Bauls’ performances and discourses are precursors to envisioning alternative emancipatory possibilities that question dominant intolerances, oppressions, and exploitations. This article documents and reflects on the works of two contemporary Bauls—Shah Abdul Karim and Manimohan Das. Through their songs and performances, they (i) question the power structure and legitimize the sufferings and struggles of the downtrodden, and (ii) seek to raise societal consciousness in imagining a free and just society.
Humility: Virgin or Virtue?
Authors: Mocholí Martínez María Elvira , Montesinos Castañeda María
Published: November 2021

This paper considers Marian iconography in which the Virgin is depicted sitting on the ground, known as the Virgin of Humility. The creation of this Marian type coincides with Saint Thomas’s systematization of the virtues, which resulted in a decline in the importance of the virtue of Humility. The combination of both cultural traditions has led to a correspondence between the virtue of Humility and the images of the Virgin of Humility. The genesis of this latter type is based on the textual sources and part of the visual representation of Humility, which was replaced during the 14th and 15th centuries.
Fractal Characteristic Analysis of Urban Land-Cover Spatial Patterns with Spatiotemporal Remote Sensing Images in Shenzhen City (1988–2015)
Authors: Cheng Luxiao , Feng Ruyi , Wang Lizhe
Published: November 2021

Understanding the urban land-cover spatial patterns is of particular significance for sustainable development planning. Due to the nonlinear characteristics related to the spatial pattern for land cover, it is essential to provide a new analysis method to analyze them across remote sensing imagery. This paper is devoted to exploring the fractals and fractal dimension properties of land-cover spatial patterns in Shenzhen city, China. Land-cover information was extracted using a supervised classification method with ArcGIS technology from cloud-free Landsat TM/ETM+/OLI imagery, covering 1988–2015. The box-counting method and the least squares regression method are combined to estimate fractal dimensions of the land-cover spatial pattern. The information entropy was used to verify our fractal dimension results. The results show the fractal dimension changes for each land cover type from 1988 to 2015: (1) the land-cover spatial form of Shenzhen city has a clear fractal structure, but fractal dimension values vary in different land cover types; (2) the fractal dimension of build-up land increases and reaches a stable value, while grassland and cultivated land decrease; The fractal structure of grassland and bare land showed a bifractals trend increasing year by year; (3) the information entropy dimension growth is approaching its maximum capacity before 2011. We integrated the information entropy index and fractal dimension to analyze the complexity in land-cover spatial evolution from space-filling, space balance, and space complexity. It can be concluded that driven by policies, the land-cover spatial form in Shenzhen experienced a process from a hierarchical spatial structure with a low evolution intensity to a higher evolution intensity with multiscale differential development. The fractal dimension has been becoming better through self-organization, and its land resources are reaching the growth limits.
Evaluation of Total Nitrogen in Water via Airborne Hyperspectral Data: Potential of Fractional Order Discretization Algorithm and Discrete Wavelet Transform Analysis
Authors: Liu Jinhua , Ding Jianli , Ge Xiangyu , Wang Jingzhe
Published: November 2021

Controlling and managing surface source pollution depends on the rapid monitoring of total nitrogen in water. However, the complex factors affecting water quality (plant shading and suspended matter in water) make direct estimation extremely challenging. Considering the spectral response mechanisms of emergent plants, we coupled discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and fractional order discretization (FOD) techniques with three machine learning models (random forest (RF), bagging algorithm (bagging), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost)) to mine this potential spectral information. A total of 567 models were developed, and airborne hyperspectral data processed with various DWT scales and FOD techniques were compared. The effective information in the hyperspectral reflectance data were better emphasized after DWT processing. After DWT processing the original spectrum (OR), its sensitivity to TN in water was maximally improved by 0.22, and the correlation between FOD and TN in water was optimally increased by 0.57. The transformed spectral information enhanced the TN model accuracy, especially for FOD after DWT. For RF, 82% of the model R2 values improved by 0.02~0.72 compared to the model using FOD spectra; 78.8% of the bagging values improved by 0.01~0.53 and 65.0% of the XGBoost values improved by 0.01~0.64. The XGBoost model with DWT coupled with grey relation analysis (GRA) yielded the best estimation accuracy, with the highest precision of R2 = 0.91 for L6. In conclusion, appropriately scaled DWT analysis can substantially improve the accuracy of extracting TN from UAV hyperspectral images. These outcomes may facilitate the further development of accurate water quality monitoring in sophisticated global waters from drone or satellite hyperspectral data.
Identifying Factors That Influence Accuracy of Riparian Vegetation Classification and River Channel Delineation Mapped Using 1 m Data
Authors: Pu Ge , Quackenbush Lindi J. , Stehman Stephen V.
Published: November 2021

Riparian vegetation delineation includes both the process of delineating the riparian zone and classifying vegetation within that zone. We developed a holistic framework to assess riparian vegetation delineation that includes evaluating channel boundary delineation accuracy using a combination of pixel- and object-based metrics. We also identified how stream order, riparian zone width, riparian land use, and image shadow influenced the accuracy of delineation and classification. We tested the framework by evaluating vegetation vs. non-vegetation riparian zone maps produced by applying random forest classification to aerial photographs with a 1 m pixel size. We assessed accuracy of the riparian vegetation classification and channel boundary delineation for two rivers in the northeastern United States. Overall accuracy for the channel boundary delineation was generally above 80% for both sites, while object-based accuracy revealed that 50% of delineated channel was less than 5 m away from the reference channel. Stream order affected channel boundary delineation accuracy while land use and image shadows influenced riparian vegetation classification accuracy; riparian zone width had little impact on observed accuracy. The holistic approach to quantification of accuracy that considers both channel boundary delineation and vegetation classification developed in this study provides an important tool to inform riparian management.
Shrinking of Ischia Island (Italy) from Long-Term Geodetic Data: Implications for the Deflation Mechanisms of Resurgent Calderas and Their Relationships with Seismicity
Authors: Galvani Alessandro , Pezzo Giuseppe , Sepe Vincenzo , Ventura Guido
Published: November 2021

The identification of the mechanisms responsible for the deformation of calderas is of primary importance for our understanding of the dynamics of magmatic systems and the evaluation of volcanic hazards. We analyze twenty years (1997–2018) of geodetic measurements on Ischia Island (Italy), which include the Mt. Epomeo resurgent block, and is affected by hydrothermal manifestations and shallow seismicity. The data from the GPS Network and the leveling route show a constant subsidence with values up to −15 ± 2.0 mm/yr and a centripetal displacement rate with the largest deformations on the southern flank of Mt. Epomeo. The joint inversion of GPS and levelling data is consistent with a 4 km deep source deflating by degassing and magma cooling below the southern flank of Mt. Epomeo. The depth of the source is supported by independent geophysical data. The Ischia deformation field is not related to the instability of the resurgent block or extensive gravity or tectonic processes. The seismicity reflects the dynamics of the shallow hydrothermal system being neither temporally nor spatially related to the deflation.
High-Resolution Polar Low Winds Obtained from Unsupervised SAR Wind Retrieval
Authors: Tollinger Mathias , Graversen Rune , Johnsen Harald
Published: November 2021

High-resolution sea surface observations by spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) instruments are sorely neglected resources for meteorological applications in polar regions. Such radar observations provide information about wind speed and direction based on wind-induced roughness of the sea surface. The increasing coverage of SAR observations in polar regions calls for the development of SAR-specific applications that make use of the full information content of this valuable resource. Here we provide examples of the potential of SAR observations to provide details of the complex, mesoscale wind structure during polar low events, and examine the performance of two current wind retrieval methods. Furthermore, we suggest a new approach towards accurate wind vector retrieval of complex wind fields from SAR observations that does not require a priori wind direction input that the most common retrieval methods are dependent on. This approach has the potential to be particularly beneficial for numerical forecasting of weather systems with strong wind gradients, such as polar lows.
Radar and Sonar Imaging and Processing (2nd Edition)
Authors: Stateczny Andrzej , Kazimierski Witold , Kulpa Krzysztof
Published: November 2021

The 14 papers (from 29 submitted) published in the Special Issue “Radar and Sonar Imaging Processing (2nd Edition)” highlight a variety of topics related to remote sensing with radar and sonar sensors. The sequence of articles included in the SI deal with a broad profile of aspects of the use of radar and sonar images in line with the latest scientific trends, in which the latest developments in science, including artificial intelligence, were used.
A New Hybrid Algorithm to Image Lightning Channels Combining the Time Difference of Arrival Technique and Electromagnetic Time Reversal Technique
Authors: Li Fengquan , Sun Zhuling , Liu Mingyuan , Yuan Shanfeng , Wei Lei , Sun Chunfa , Lyu Huimin , Zhu Kexin , Tang Guoying
Published: November 2021

Very-high-frequency (VHF) electromagnetic signals have been well used to image lightning channels with high temporal and spatial resolution due to their capability to penetrate clouds. A lightning broadband VHF interferometer with three VHF antennas configured in a scalene-triangle shape has been installed in Lhasa since 2019, to detect the lightning VHF signals. Using the signals from the VHF interferometer, a new hybrid algorithm, called the TDOA-EMTR technique, combining the time difference of arrival (TDOA) and the electromagnetic time reversal (EMTR) technique is introduced to image the two-dimensional lightning channels. The TDOA technique is firstly applied to calculate the initial solutions for the whole lightning flash. According to the results by the TDOA method, the domain used for the EMTR technique is predetermined, and then the EMTR technique is operated to obtain the final positioning result. Unlike the original EMTR technique, the low-power frequency points for each time window are removed based on the FFT spectrum. Metrics used to filter noise events are adjusted. Detailed imaging results of a negative cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning flash and an intra-cloud (IC) lightning flash by the TDOA method and the TDOA-EMTR are presented. Compared with the original EMTR method, the positioning efficiency can be improved by more than a factor of 3 to 4, depending on the scope of the pre-determined domain. Results show that the new algorithm can obtain much weaker radiation sources and simultaneously occurring sources, compared with the TDOA method.
Short and Medium-Term Prediction of Winter Wheat NDVI Based on the DTW–LSTM Combination Method and MODIS Time Series Data
Authors: Zhao Fa , Yang Guijun , Yang Hao , Zhu Yaohui , Meng Yang , Han Shaoyu , Bu Xinlei
Published: November 2021

The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) is an important agricultural parameter that is closely correlated with crop growth. In this study, a novel method combining the dynamic time warping (DTW) model and the long short-term memory (LSTM) deep recurrent neural network model was developed to predict the short and medium-term winter wheat NDVI. LSTM is well-suited for modelling long-term dependencies, but this method may be susceptible to overfitting. In contrast, DTW possesses good predictive ability and is less susceptible to overfitting. Therefore, by utilizing the combination of these two models, the prediction error caused by overfitting is reduced, thus improving the final prediction accuracy. The combined method proposed here utilizes the historical MODIS time series data with an 8-day time resolution from 2015 to 2020. First, fast Fourier transform (FFT) is used to decompose the time series into two parts. The first part reflects the inter-annual and seasonal variation characteristics of winter wheat NDVI, and the DTW model is applied for prediction. The second part reflects the short-term change characteristics of winter wheat NDVI, and the LSTM model is applied for prediction. Next, the results from both models are combined to produce a final prediction. A case study in Hebei Province that predicts the NDVI of winter wheat at five prediction horizons in the future indicates that the DTW–LSTM model proposed here outperforms the LSTM model according to multiple evaluation indicators. The results of this study suggest that the DTW–LSTM model is highly promising for short and medium-term NDVI prediction.
Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria Modulate the Concentration of Bioactive Compounds in Tomato Fruits
Authors: de la Osa Clara , Rodríguez-Carvajal Miguel Ángel , Gandullo Jacinto , Aranda Clara , Megías Manuel , Ollero Francisco Javier , López-Baena Francisco Javier , Monreal José Antonio
Published: November 2021

Background: The application of microorganisms as bioestimulants in order to increase the yield and/or quality of agricultural products is becoming a widely used practice in many countries. In this work, five plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), isolated from cultivated rice paddy soils, were selected for their plant growth-promoting capacities (e.g., auxin synthesis, chitinase activity, phosphate solubilisation and siderophores production). Two different tomato cultivars were inoculated, Tres Cantos and cherry. Plants were grown under greenhouse conditions and different phenotypic characteristics were analysed at the time of harvesting. Results: Tres Cantos plants inoculated with PGPR produced less biomass but larger fruits. However, the photosynthetic rate was barely affected. Several antioxidant activities were upregulated in these plants, and no oxidative damage in terms of lipid peroxidation was observed. Finally, ripe fruits accumulated less sugar but, interestingly, more lycopene. By contrast, inoculation of cherry plants with PGPR had no effect on biomass, although photosynthesis was slightly affected, and the productivity was similar to the control plants. In addition, antioxidant activities were downregulated and a higher lipid peroxidation was detected. However, neither sugar nor lycopene accumulation was altered. Conclusion: These results support the use of microorganisms isolated from agricultural soils as interesting tools to manipulate the level of important bioactive molecules in plants. However, this effect seems to be very specific, even at the variety level, and deeper analyses are necessary to assess their use for specific applications.
Gum Arabic-Magnetite Nanocomposite as an Eco-Friendly Adsorbent for Removal of Lead(II) Ions from Aqueous Solutions: Equilibrium, Kinetic and Thermodynamic Studies
Authors: Ali Ismat H. , Bani-Fwaz Mutasem Z. , El-Zahhar Adel A. , Marzouki Riadh , Jemmali Mosbah , Ebraheem Sara M.
Published: November 2021

In this study, a gum Arabic-magnetite nanocomposite (GA/MNPs) was synthesized using the solution method. The prepared nanocomposite was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The prepared composite was evaluated for the adsorption of lead(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The controlling factors such as pH, contact time, adsorbent dose, initial ion concentration, and temperature were investigated. The optimum adsorption conditions were found to be 0.3 g/50 mL, pH = 6.00, and contact time of 30 min. The experimental data well fitted the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum adsorption capacity was determined as 50.5 mg/g. Thermodynamic parameters were calculated postulating an endothermic and spontaneous process and a physio-sorption pathway.
Study on the Preparation of Magnetic Mn–Co–Fe Spinel and Its Mercury Removal Performance
Authors: Huang Jiawei , Zhong Zhaoping , Xu Yueyang , Xu Yuanqiang
Published: November 2021

In this study, the manganese-doped manganese–cobalt–iron spinel was prepared by the sol–gel self-combustion method, and its physical and chemical properties were analyzed by XRD (X-ray diffraction analysis), SEM (scanning electron microscope), and VSM (vibrating sample magnetometer). The mercury removal performance of simulated flue gas was tested on a fixed bed experimental device, and the effects of Mn doping amount, fuel addition amount, reaction temperature, and flue gas composition on its mercury removal capacity were studied. The results showed that the best synthesized product was when the doping amount of Mn was the molar ratio of 0.5, and the average mercury removal efficiency was 87.5% within 120 min. Among the fuel rich, stoichiometric ratio, and fuel lean systems, the stoichiometric ratio system is most conductive to product synthesis, and the mercury removal performance of the obtained product was the best. Moreover, the removal ability of Hg0 was enhanced with the increase in temperature in the test temperature range, and both physical and chemical adsorption play key roles in the spinel adsorption of Hg0 in the medium temperature range. The addition of O2 can promote the removal of Hg0 by adsorbent, but the continuous increase after the volume fraction reached 10% had little effect on the removal efficiency of Hg0. While SO2 inhibited the removal of mercury by adsorbent, the higher the volume fraction, the more obvious the inhibition. In addition, in an oxygen-free environment, the addition of a small amount of HCl can promote the removal of mercury by adsorbent, but the addition of more HCl does not have a better promotion effect. Compared with other reported adsorbents, the adsorbent has better mercury removal performance and magnetic properties, and has a strong recycling performance. The removal efficiency of mercury can always be maintained above 85% in five cycles.
Impact of Cropland Reclamation on Ecological Security in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, China
Authors: Yin Feng , Zhou Ting , Ke Xinli
Published: November 2021

Ecological security is important both for maintaining the function of an ecosystem and for providing ecosystem services to the human wellbeing. The impact of land use change/cover on ecological security has attracted considerable attention, whereas the role of cropland reclamation remains unclear. The indirect loss of ecological land that occurs upon the request of cropland requisition-compensation policies offer further changes to ecological security. In order to ascertain the impact of cropland reclamation on ecological security, in this study three scenarios are established, addressing cropland returning to ecological lands without a slope limitation, with a slope <25°, and with a reclaimed cropland slope ≥25°. This study was conducted in the Yangtze River economic belt (YREB) due to its important contribution to ecological security in China. Land uses in different scenarios in 2030 are projected using the land use simulation model LANDSCAPE. Accordingly, ecological security in each scenario was evaluated using the contribution–vigour–organization–resilience framework, comprising the variables carbon storage, water purification, water yield, habitat quality, net primary productivity, mean patch area, Shannon’s diversity index, largest patch index and contagion, as well as the normalized difference vegetation index. The results indicate that about 62% of YREB land is projected to remain stable in terms of ecological security, while about 21% will deteriorate and 17% will improve between 2015–2030. Land where ecological security is projected to improve is concentrated in areas where broad and connected croplands are distributed. The fact that a higher proportion of areas will deteriorate than improve suggests that the negative impact of cropland change on ecological security should not be ignored. Comparing different scenarios, croplands returning to ecological lands pose a particularly significant impact on ecological security, particularly in the upper reaches of the YREB, where steep croplands are concentrated.
Critical Junctures in Assistive Technology and Disability Inclusion
Authors: Kett Maria , Holloway Catherine , Austin Victoria
Published: November 2021

It is clear from the events of the last 18 months that while technology has a huge potential for transforming the way we live and work, the entire ecosystem—from manufacturing to the supply chain—is vulnerable to the vagaries of that ecosystem, as well as having the potential to exacerbate new and existing inequalities [...]
Where Does Sustainability Stand in Underground Tourism? A Literature Review
Authors: Buonincontri Piera , Micera Roberto , Murillo-Romero María , Pianese Tommasina
Published: November 2021

Underground sites have become an attractive tourist destination for an increasing number of visitors. This flow of visitors has made sustainability a major issue, that is, the way in which tourism development ensures economic benefits for host communities and respects local identity without compromising the environmental resources. Many studies have explored sustainable tourism in the Underground Built Heritage (UBH), but privilege the analysis of a single perspective, that is, economic sustainability, e.g., potentialities of cultural routes, or environmental sustainability, such as the impact of visitors on the cave climate. However, some attention has been paid to the social implications of tourism in the UBH, that is, the impacts of tourism development on improving the quality of life of the local community and the enhancement of their sense of community while respecting cultural authenticity. Our aim is to reconcile these perspectives and obtain, through a semi-systematic review, a clear picture of the sustainability of tourism in UBH sites. The aggregation of existing knowledge around the three pillars of sustainability has highlighted the importance of community involvement and collaboration among UBH stakeholders to ensure a balance between the protection and valorisation of UBH, which can also be achieved through networking strategies.
An Assessment of the On-Road Mobile Sources Contribution to Particulate Matter Air Pollution by AERMOD Dispersion Model
Authors: Salva Jozef , Vanek Miroslav , Schwarz Marián , Gajtanska Milada , Tonhauzer Peter , Ďuricová Anna
Published: November 2021

On-road mobile sources of emissions make important contributions to particulate matter pollution (PM2.5–PM10) in cities. The quantification of such pollution is, however, highly challenging due to the number of interacting factors that affect emissions such as vehicle category, emission standard, vehicle speed and weather conditions. The proper identification of individual sources of emission is particularly necessary for air quality management areas. In this study, we estimated exhaust and non-exhaust traffic-related PM2.5 and PM10 contributions to total ambient pollution in Banská Bystrica (Slovak republic) by simulation based on the AERMOD dispersion model. Emission rates of particular vehicle categories were obtained through vehicle population statistics, traffic data survey and emission factors from the EMEP/EEA air pollutant emission inventory guidebook. Continuous PM10 and PM2.5 data from air quality monitoring stations were analysed for the years 2019–2020 and compared with modelled concentrations. The annual concentration values of PM2.5 and PM10 in the study area reached 16.71 μg/m3 and 15.57 μg/m3, respectively. We found that modelled PM2.5 peak concentration values exceeded the WHO air quality guideline annual mean limit. Traffic-related PM2.5 and PM10 contributions to ambient pollution at the reference point located nearby to a busy traffic route were approximately 25% and 17%, respectively. The reference point located outside the main transport corridors showed an approximately 11% contribution, both for PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations. The simulations showed that PM pollution is greatly contributed to by on-road mobile sources of emissions in the study area, and especially non-exhaust emissions, which require serious attention in association with their health impacts and the selection of Banská Bystrica as an air quality management area.
Experimental Characterization of the Initial Shear Strength of Composite Masonry including AAC Blocks and DPC Layers
Authors: Vanheukelom Martijn , Das Rajarshi , Degée Hervé , Vandoren Bram
Published: November 2021

Modern masonry structures, apart from having a load-bearing function, are more and more subjected to additional non-structural requirements related to, e.g., thermal insulation and moisture control. This has respectively led to the introduction of thermal break layers, in practice often executed using autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) blocks, and damp proof courses (DPC) in masonry walls. These modifications have an impact on the mechanical characteristics of the masonry, such as the shear strength. In this paper, an extensive experimental campaign is therefore conducted on masonry triplets to investigate the initial shear strength of concrete block and clay brick masonry, including AAC blocks. The impact of the the presence of a polyethylene DPC layer is also studied. Moreover, the position of the DPC membrane is varied, i.e., directly on top of the brick (which is generally not recommended yet common in construction practice) and in the middle of the mortar joint. In total, 138 shear tests were performed according to the EN 1052-3 standard, with low to moderate precompression levels. The test results focus on the differences in friction angle, shear modulus, and friction coefficient. It is concluded that the presence of an AAC block decreases the initial shear strength to a value which is lower than the one assumed by Eurocode 6. Moreover, when adding a DPC membrane, the shear strength is reduced even further to almost zero, in particular when the membrane is not put in the middle of the mortar joint.
Can We Sustain Sustainability? A Critical Synthesis of Pertinent Literature
Authors: Brand Jay L. , Augustin Sally
Published: November 2021

Architects and designers, along with their corporate clients, generally embrace the importance of environmental stewardship, saving the earth’s ecosystem, and sustainable design. However, research is needed to link sustainable design with relevant human behavior (e.g., in corporate offices and educational settings) to ensure its enduring legacy. Regarding changing people’s behavior, the majority of human experience results from unconscious processes, i.e., brain–environment interactions not available to awareness; thus, in general, people cannot articulate the nature of these associations. Using theoretical roots stemming from William James and running through ecological psychology (e.g., James J. Gibson to Roger Barker), Harry Heft has argued that the influence of environmental design precedes conscious awareness and information processing. Assuming Heft’s conjecture, this implies that—if informed by biologically influential signals (e.g., biophilic design)—the design of the ambient physical environment may positively ‘nudge’ human behavior in ways useful to sustainability and sensitivity to the environment—although relevant critical perspectives suggest that dynamic conditions and contextual complexity may modify the potential of nudge theory applications. Still, could it be that sustainable design can improve human health and well-being? Research suggests that environmentally responsible and biophilic design may accomplish at least a few elements of this goal and perhaps also enhance some aspects of cognitive performance. Could this approach support environmental sustainability by linking sustainable design to its potential economic benefits via worker productivity or student success? If so, then the strategy of improving positive well-being through design aligns well with the goal of maintaining the long-term viability of the earth’s ecosystem.
Enhancing Effect of Waste Engine Oil Bottom Incorporation on the Performance of CR+SBS Modified Bitumen: A Sustainable and Environmentally-Friendly Solution for Wastes
Authors: Liu Changjiang , Wang Qiuping
Published: November 2021

Waste engine oil bottom (WEOB) is a hazardous waste whose effect as an additive to CR+SBS modified asphalt is rarely studied. In this study, the CR+SBS asphalt binder was modified with WEOB in different concentrations (3, 6, and 9 wt%). The GC–MS and FTIR were performed to evaluate the chemical compositions of WEOB and WEOBCR+SBS asphalt. The results showed that the main constituents of WEOB were similar to the functional groups of asphalt, along with maleic anhydride (MAH). Pavement performance-related rheological tests such as RV, temperature sweep (TS), FS, MSCR, and BBR were carried out. Results show that WEOBCR+SBS-6 exhibited the best high- and low-temperature property, followed by CR+SBS-3 and CR+SBS-9. Fluorescence microscope (FM) test, bar thin layer chromatograph (BTLC) test, FTIR, and AFM tests were carried out to evaluate the micro-morphologies and modification mechanism. The analysis revealed increased trends in resin fraction as opposed to asphaltene fraction with the increase of WEOB content. FTIR analysis revealed that the amide groups in WEOBCR+SBS asphalt bonded to the free radicals of CR. Moreover, a modification mechanism was elaborated. WEOB strengthens the cross-linked structure of CR+SBS polymers, reacting with SBS to graft onto MAH-g-SBS, and the free radical of CR interacts with the amide group in WEOB to form a bond. In addition, the content of lightweight components and surface roughness of SBS specimens were in good correlation, which contributed to the rutting resistance and adhesion and self-healing performance.
Supply Chain Replenishment Decision for Newsvendor Products with Multiple Periods and a Short Life Cycle
Authors: Wei Chun-Chin , Chen Liang-Tu
Published: November 2021

Traditionally, the newsvendor problem is a single-period model for a retailer and can be applied in the replenishment decision for a product with a short life cycle. However, many fashionable commodities are seasonal; not all of these products must be sold within a single period of a selling season, and they can be replenished once in each cycle. This study develops a novel multi-period model to determine multiple ordering replenishment decisions for a product over a short selling season. This study not only demonstrates the profit function for a retailer, but also provides those for both the manufacturer and the entire channel in a supply chain problem. The proposed multi-period ordering model provides explicit insights into how the ordering decisions of the retailer are affected in a specific period by considering unsold inventory or unsatisfied demand from a previous period. A numerical analysis and the simulation results illustrate the feasibility of the proposed model.
Students’ Immersive Experience in Initial Teacher Training in a Virtual World to Promote Sustainable Education: Interactivity, Presence, and Flow
Authors: Badilla-Quintana María Graciela , Sandoval-Henríquez Francisco Javier
Published: November 2021

The Virtual World is a technology that has created countless opportunities for teaching and learning, innovating traditional and online education, and promoting a more sustainable and accessible education. Through their avatars and digital representations, students can navigate, observe, and manipulate virtual objects, while interacting with their classmates inside the simulated 3D environment. This study examined how preservice teachers experience and participate in a VW that simulates a university campus, considering three main components: interactivity, sense of presence, and state of flow. A total of 103 pedagogy students, enrolled in an educational technology course, participated in the study. A postintervention survey was implemented, as well as a self-report about the immersive experience. The results show a high level of agreement with the survey’s affirmations, which allows for the determination of the favorable levels of interactivity, presence, and flow, as well as the meaningful and positive associations among these technological properties. Guidelines are argued to deepen the Virtual World’s potential and are given for the design of pedagogical activities in those environments.
A Comparative Study of the Configuration and Functions of Outdoor and Semi-Outdoor Space in Schools from the Traditional to the Contemporary Period Based on Evaluating the Role of the Governing Educational System
Authors: Fallah Tafti Fatemeh , Mirjany Arjanan Hamid
Published: November 2021

The present study, based on a case study, aims at addressing the functional and morphological evolutions in outdoor and semi-outdoor spaces in Yazd schools over time, through educational developments. The approach followed in this study is to connect the changes in the spatial structure of outdoor space in schools to the evolutions in the educational system. To this end, this paper develops five hypotheses and employs qualitative and computational research methods to evaluate the functions and spatial configuration of the outdoor spaces of six schools, constructed between the 18th and 20th CE centuries, in Yazd. A mathematical method drawn by “space syntax” is adopted to measure the spatial features of the outdoor spaces of schools, and a field study is used to identify the relationship between the functional process of these configurations and their governing educational principle. The results show that the configuration of the traditional schools, built between the late 18th and 19th centuries, in Yazd was formed based on the active educational role of outdoor and semi-outdoor spaces, followed by the governing educational policies. Moreover, the outdoor and semi-outdoor spaces are not only the main spaces where social activities are held in schools, but also are complementary elements to the indoor educational spaces. Meanwhile, in modern schools, constructed in the early 20th century, and contemporary schools, constructed in the late 20th century, the spatial configuration of schools has changed and the importance of outdoor and semi-outdoor spaces in these schools has significantly devaluated due partially to the evolution of the modern educational system compared to traditional schools. By identifying the features of three different school building typologies, as well as their outdoor space functions, this paper provides useful knowledge for future school designing and planning in Yazd.
Are Housing Prices Sustainable in 35 Large and Medium-Sized Chinese Cities? A Study Based on the Cheap Talk Game and Dynamic GMM
Authors: Wang Jie , Peng Biyu , Xia Xiaohua , Ma Zhu
Published: November 2021

Focusing on the rapid rise of China’s housing prices in recent years, in this paper, we construct a model using the cheap talk game that centers on how information receivers in a market make inferences about the true state of the information based on the cost-free signals they receive and then make decisions based on these inferences, which in turn affect market equilibrium. By constructing a cheap talk game model of house prices, we examine the correlation between market expectations, economic fundamentals, and individual housing purchase decisions. Then, we conduct an empirical analysis using the dynamic GMM method based on the panel data of 35 large and medium-sized cities in China. The analysis reveals that: (1) when the whole of society expects housing prices to rise, housing prices will rise regardless of the true state of economic fundamentals; (2) when information on economic fundamentals is accurate and reliable, home buyers tend to make purchase decisions based on such information, thus maximizing the utility of society as a whole; but when information on economic fundamentals is unreliable, home buyers tend to make purchase decisions according to their own housing price expectations, which is not conducive to the optimization of the utility of society as a whole; (3) the empirical results also reveal that expectations are a non-negligible factor in the rise of housing prices, and the coefficient of expectations exceeds that of each economic fundamental; this demonstrates the investment-driven attribute of the housing market in China. At the same time, economic fundamentals have a definite effect on housing prices, which implies that the rise of housing prices in China is supported by objective conditions.
Evolution of Sustainable Tourism Concepts
Authors: Roblek Vasja , Drpić Danijel , Meško Maja , Milojica Vedran
Published: November 2021

This paper aims to present the evolution and change in content in tourism, over time, as well as the emergence of different sustainable tourism concepts (ST). For this purpose, a comparative Automated Content Analysis (ACA) is herein applied to scientific articles published between 1990, when the first article in this field was published in the Web of Science, and the end of 2020. The results show some overlaps between the concepts that have emerged over the periods. According to the analysis results, it can be concluded that the theme focuses on business model changes, adoption of organizational processes related to the provision of mitigation measures, implementation of cleaner and smarter technologies, the importance of cultural heritage for sustainable tourism product concepts, rural development, green investment, sustainable standards and sustainable reporting.
Audit Report Lag. Differential Analysis between Spanish SMEs and Non-SMEs
Authors: Escaloni Susana , Mareque Mercedes
Published: November 2021

Audit report lag is considered to be an indicator of audit punctuality and efficiency, while the existence of factors that may determine this lag has been signalled in previous studies. The objective of this study is to identify the determinants of audit report lag in Spanish SMEs, and to analyse the potential singularities of these factors with regards to non-SMEs. With this aim in mind, a set of factors has been analysed; in the previous literature, a relationship has been observed between these factors and the characteristics of the audited company, the auditor and the audit exercise. Additionally, the possible influence of financial crisis and recovery periods is analysed. The sample analysed is made up of 3217 unlisted Spanish firms for the years 2008–2015. Multiple linear regression analysis is used, modelling the audit report lag based on the independent variables related to the characteristics of the audited company, the auditor and the audit exercise. Based on the results obtained, we can support the existence of differences among the independent variables responsible for the audit report lag based on company type (SME/non-SME), with a larger number of factors impacting the audit report lag in SMEs. It is worth noting the significant relationship between audit report lag and opinion and crisis variables, both for the SME and non-SME models. In the case of SMEs, links between audit report lag and the likelihood of bankruptcy, auditor type, number of economic activities carried out by the audited company, the industry to which the audited company pertains, and audit fees were also observed. Furthermore, we can conclude that audit report lag is greater in SMEs and that the independent variables explaining report lag differ according to whether the company is an SME or not.
Targeting Energy Efficiency through Air Conditioning Operational Modes for Residential Buildings in Tropical Climates, Assisted by Solar Energy and Thermal Energy Storage. Case Study Brazil
Authors: Naves Alex Ximenes , Esteller Laureano Jiménez , Haddad Assed Naked , Boer Dieter
Published: November 2021

Economy and parsimony in the consumption of energy resources are becoming a part of common sense in practically all countries, although the effective implementation of energy efficiency policies still has a long way to go. The energy demand for residential buildings is one of the most significant energy sinks. We focus our analysis on one of the most energy-consuming systems of residential buildings located in regions of tropical climate, which are cooling systems. We evaluate to which degree the integration of thermal energy storage (TES) and photovoltaic (PV) systems helps to approach an annual net zero energy building (NZEB) configuration, aiming to find a feasible solution in the direction of energy efficiency in buildings. To conduct the simulations, an Energy Efficiency Analysis Framework (EEAF) is proposed. A literature review unveiled a potential knowledge gap about the optimization of the ASHRAE operational modes (full storage load, load leveled, and demand limiting) for air conditioning/TES sets using PV connected to the grid. A hypothetical building was configured with detailed loads and occupation profiles to simulate different configurations of air conditioning associated with TES and a PV array. Using TRNSYS software, a set of scenarios was simulated, and their outputs are analyzed in a life cycle perspective using life cycle costing (LCC). The modeling and simulation of different scenarios allowed for identifying the most economic configurations from a life cycle perspective, within a safe range of operability considering the energy efficiency and consequently the sustainability aspects of the buildings. The EEAF also supports other profiles, such as those in which the occupancy of residential buildings during the day is increased due to significant changes in people’s habits, when working and studying in home office mode, for example. These changes in habits should bring a growing interest in the adoption of solar energy for real-time use in residential buildings. The results can be used as premises for the initial design or planning retrofits of buildings, aiming at the annual net zero energy balance.
Influence of Alkalis on Natural Carbonation of Limestone Calcined Clay Cement Pastes
Authors: Li Ruoying , Ye Hailong
Published: November 2021

Vulnerability to atmospheric carbonation is one of the major durability concerns for limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) concrete due to its relatively low overall alkalinity. In this study, the natural carbonation behaviors of ternary ordinary Portland cement-metakaolin-limestone (OPC-MK-LS) blends containing various sulfate salts (i.e., anhydrous CaSO4, Na2SO4, and K2SO4) are studied, with the aim of revealing the influence of alkali cations (Na+, K+). Detailed analyses on the hydrated phase assemblage, composition, microstructure, and pore structure of LC3 pastes prior to and post indoor carbonation are conducted. The results show that the incorporation of sulfate salts accelerates the setting and strength gain of LC3 pastes, likely through enhancement of ettringite formation, but undermines its later age strength achievement due to the deleterious effect of alkali cations (Na+, K+) on late age OPC hydration. The carbonation resistance of LC3 systems is considerably undermined, particularly with the incorporation of Na2SO4 or K2SO4 salts, due to the simultaneous pore coarsening effect and reduced CO2-binding capacity. The carbonation-induced phase and microstructural alterations of LC3 pastes are discussed and compared with those of reference OPC pastes.