bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Face Presentation Attack Detection Using Deep Background Subtraction
Authors: Benlamoudi Azeddine , Bekhouche Salah Eddine , Korichi Maarouf , Bensid Khaled , Ouahabi Abdeldjalil , Hadid Abdenour , Taleb-Ahmed Abdelmalik
Published: May 2022

Currently, face recognition technology is the most widely used method for verifying an individual’s identity. Nevertheless, it has increased in popularity, raising concerns about face presentation attacks, in which a photo or video of an authorized person’s face is used to obtain access to services. Based on a combination of background subtraction (BS) and convolutional neural network(s) (CNN), as well as an ensemble of classifiers, we propose an efficient and more robust face presentation attack detection algorithm. This algorithm includes a fully connected (FC) classifier with a majority vote (MV) algorithm, which uses different face presentation attack instruments (e.g., printed photo and replayed video). By including a majority vote to determine whether the input video is genuine or not, the proposed method significantly enhances the performance of the face anti-spoofing (FAS) system. For evaluation, we considered the MSU MFSD, REPLAY-ATTACK, and CASIA-FASD databases. The obtained results are very interesting and are much better than those obtained by state-of-the-art methods. For instance, on the REPLAY-ATTACK database, we were able to attain a half-total error rate (HTER) of 0.62% and an equal error rate (EER) of 0.58%. We attained an EER of 0% on both the CASIA-FASD and the MSU MFSD databases.
Energy and Distance Based Multi-Objective Red Fox Optimization Algorithm in Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Natarajan Rajathi , Megharaj Geetha , Marchewka Adam , Divakarachari Parameshachari Bidare , Hans Manoj Raghubir
Published: May 2022

In modern trends, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are interesting, and distributed in the environment to evaluate received data. The sensor nodes have a higher capacity to sense and transmit the information. A WSN contains low-cost, low-power, multi-function sensor nodes, with limited computational capabilities, used for observing environmental constraints. In previous research, many energy-efficient routing methods were suggested to improve the time of the network by minimizing energy consumption; sometimes, the sensor nodes run out of power quickly. The majority of recent articles present various methods aimed at reducing energy usage in sensor networks. In this paper, an energy-efficient clustering/routing technique, called the energy and distance based multi-objective red fox optimization algorithm (ED-MORFO), was proposed to reduce energy consumption. In each communication round of transmission, this technique selects the cluster head (CH) with the most residual energy, and finds the optimal routing to the base station. The simulation clearly shows that the proposed ED-MORFO achieves better performance in terms of energy consumption (0.46 J), packet delivery ratio (99.4%), packet loss rate (0.6%), end-to-end delay (11 s), routing overhead (0.11), throughput (0.99 Mbps), and network lifetime (3719 s), when compared with existing MCH-EOR and RDSAOA-EECP methods.
Design and Micro-Fabrication of Focused High-Frequency Needle Transducers for Medical Imaging
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Phuoc , Choi Jaeyeop , Nguyen Van Tu , Mondal Sudip , Bui Ngoc Thang , Vu Dinh Dat , Park Sumin , Oh Junghwan
Published: May 2022

In this study, we report an advanced fabrication technique to develop a miniature focused needle transducer. Two different types of high-frequency (100 MHz) transducers were fabricated using the lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-0.3PT) and lithium niobate (LiNbO3) single crystals. In order to enhance the transducer’s performance, a unique mass–spring matching layer technique was adopted, in which gold and parylene play the roles of the mass layer and spring layer, respectively. The PMN-0.3PT transducer had a 103 MHz center frequency with a −6 dB bandwidth of 52%, and a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 42 dB. The center frequency, −6 dB bandwidth, and SNR of the LiNbO3 transducer were 105 MHz, 66%, and 44 dB, respectively. In order to compare and evaluate the transducers’ performances, an ultrasonic biomicroscopy (UBM) imaging on the fish eye was performed. The results showed that the LiNbO3 transducer had a better contrast resolution compared to the PMN-0.3PT transducer. The fabricated transducer showed an excellent performance with high-resolution corneal epithelium imaging of the experimental fish eye. These interesting findings are useful for the future biomedical implementation of the fabricated transducers in the field of high-resolution ultrasound imaging and diagnosis purpose.
A Novel Meander Line Metamaterial Absorber Operating at 24 GHz and 28 GHz for the 5G Applications
Authors: Naqvi Syed Aftab , Baqir Muhammad Abuzar , Gourley Grant , Iftikhar Adnan , Saeed Khan Muhammad , Anagnostou Dimitris E.
Published: May 2022

Fifth generation (5G) communication systems deploy a massive MIMO technique to enhance gain and spatial multiplexing in arrays of 16 to 128 antennas. In these arrays, it is critical to isolate the adjacent antennas to prevent unwanted interaction between them. Fifth generation absorbers, in this regard, are the recent interest of many researchers nowadays. The authors present a dual-band novel metamaterial-based 5G absorber. The absorber operates at 24 GHz and 28 GHz and is composed of symmetric meander lines connected through a transmission line. An analytical model used to calculate the total number of required meander lines to design the absorber is delineated. The analytical model is based on the total inductance offered by the meander line structure in an impedance-matched electronic circuit. The proposed absorber works on the principal of resonance and absorbs two 5G bands (24 GHz and 28 GHz). A complete angular stability analysis was carried out prior to experiments for both transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) polarizations. Further, the resonance conditions are altered by changing the substrate thickness and incidence angle of the incident fields to demonstrate the functionality of the absorber. The comparison between simulated and measured results shows that such an absorber would be a strong candidate for the absorption in millimetre-wave array antennas, where elements are placed in proximity within compact 5G devices.
Diagnostics of Articular Cartilage Damage Based on Generated Acoustic Signals Using ANN—Part II: Patellofemoral Joint
Authors: Karpiński Robert , Krakowski Przemysław , Jonak Józef , Machrowska Anna , Maciejewski Marcin , Nogalski Adam
Published: May 2022

Cartilage loss due to osteoarthritis (OA) in the patellofemoral joint provokes pain, stiffness, and restriction of joint motion, which strongly reduces quality of life. Early diagnosis is essential for prolonging painless joint function. Vibroarthrography (VAG) has been proposed in the literature as a safe, noninvasive, and reproducible tool for cartilage evaluation. Until now, however, there have been no strict protocols for VAG acquisition especially in regard to differences between the patellofemoral and tibiofemoral joints. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the proposed examination and acquisition protocol for the patellofemoral joint, as well as to determine the optimal examination protocol to obtain the best diagnostic results. Thirty-four patients scheduled for knee surgery due to cartilage lesions were enrolled in the study and compared with 33 healthy individuals in the control group. VAG acquisition was performed prior to surgery, and cartilage status was evaluated during the surgery as a reference point. Both closed (CKC) and open (OKC) kinetic chains were assessed during VAG. The selection of the optimal signal measures was performed using a neighborhood component analysis (NCA) algorithm. The classification was performed using multilayer perceptron (MLP) and radial basis function (RBF) neural networks. The classification using artificial neural networks was performed for three variants: I. open kinetic chain, II. closed kinetic chain, and III. open and closed kinetic chain. The highest diagnostic accuracy was obtained for variants I and II for the RBF 9-35-2 and MLP 10-16-2 networks, respectively, achieving a classification accuracy of 98.53, a sensitivity of 0.958, and a specificity of 1. For variant III, a diagnostic accuracy of 97.79 was obtained with a sensitivity and specificity of 0.978 for MLP 8-3-2. This indicates a possible simplification of the examination protocol to single kinetic chain analyses.
Air Force Pilot Expertise Assessment during Unusual Attitude Recovery Flight
Authors: Borghini Gianluca , Aricò Pietro , Di Flumeri Gianluca , Ronca Vincenzo , Giorgi Andrea , Sciaraffa Nicolina , Conca Claudio , Stefani Simone , Verde Paola , Landolfi Angelo , Isabella Roberto , Babiloni Fabio
Published: May 2022

Pilot training and expertise are key aspects in aviation. A traditional way of evaluating pilot expertise is to measure performance output. However, this approach provides a narrow view of the pilot’s capacity, especially with regard to mental and emotional profile. The aim of this study is hence to investigate whether neurophysiological data can be employed as an additional objective measure to assess the expertise of pilots. In this regard, it has been demonstrated that mental effort can be used as an indirect measure of operator expertise and capacity. An increase in mental effort, for instance, can automatically result in a decrease in the remaining capacity of the operator. To better investigate this aspect, we ask two groups of Italian Air Force pilots, experienced (Experts) and unexperienced (Novices), to undergo unusual attitude recovery flight training simulations. Their behavioral (unusual attitude recovery time), subjective (mental effort demand perception) and neurophysiological data (Electroencephalogram, EEG; Electrocardiogram, ECG) are collected during the entire flight simulations. Although the two groups do not exhibit differences in terms of unusual attitude recovery time and mental effort demand perception, the EEG-based mental effort index shows how Novices request significantly higher mental effort during unusual conditions.
A Fast Method for the Simultaneous Analysis of 26 Beta-Agonists in Swine Muscle with a Multi-Functional Filter by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Lin , Jia Qi , Liao Guangqin , Qian Yongzhong , Qiu Jing
Published: May 2022

A rapid and simplified sample preparation method was developed for the simultaneous determination of 26 beta-agonists in swine muscle using a multi-functional filter (MFF) based on quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe methods (QuEChERS). MFF integrated the cleanup and filter procedures, thereby significantly improving the efficiency of sample preparation compared with traditional solid-phase extraction. The sample was processed via enzymatic hydrolysis, purified with the optimized MFF containing 150 mg magnesium sulfate, 50 mg PSA, and 50 mg C18, and then analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. All procedures can be completed in 6.5 h. Good linearity (R2 > 0.99) was detected in all analytes. The recoveries ranged from 71.2% to 118.6%, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) of less than 18.37% in all spiked concentrations. The limits of detection (LOD) and the limits of quantitation (LOQ) were 0.01–0.10 and 0.10–0.50 μg/kg, respectively. The decision limit (CCα) and detection capacity (CCβ) values fluctuated in the range of 3.44–25.71 and 6.38–51.21 μg/kg, respectively. This method is a good alternative for detecting beta-agonist residues in swine muscle and can be successfully applied to the national risk monitoring of agro-product quality and safety in China.
Factors Influencing Sexual Health Service Use by South Asian Immigrant Men Living in Ontario, Canada: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Jahangir Yamin Tauseef , Neiterman Elena , Janes Craig R. , Meyer Samantha B.
Published: May 2022

Introduction: South Asian communities comprise one of the fastest-growing populations in Canada, but there is a paucity of research on if and how immigrant men use sexual health services. Objectives: Our study aimed to understand factors influencing sexual health service use by South Asian immigrant men living in Ontario, Canada. Methods: An interpretive description (ID) research methodology was used, followed by Braun and Clarke’s thematic guidelines to collect and analyze data. Altogether, 18 semi-structured interviews were conducted between May and July 2021 with South Asian immigrant men between 20 and 45 years of age in Ontario. Results: We found that culture shaped the overall perception and use of sexual health services, while the perceived severity of sexual illness also affected the utilization of preventative care. Moreover, there are taboos about sexual health, and while sex positivity and sex negativity exist, sexual health information is shared with trusted sources. We also found South Asian men shared sexual health more openly by following a lifestyle that normalizes sexual health discussions rather than South Asian cultural norms. Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the individual, structural and cultural determinants of health influencing sexual health service use to strengthen existing health communication strategies to improve service utilization for diverse communities in Canada.
Allergic Rhinosinusitis and Airway Diseases
Authors: Duong-Quy Sy
Published: May 2022

The concept of united airway disease interaction, which comprises chronic rhinosinusitis and other lower airway disorders such as asthma, has been recognized for over a decade [...]
Building China’s Eldercare Market: The Imperatives of Capital Accumulation and Social Stability
Authors: Xu Feng
Published: May 2022

The paper investigates China’s effort to create an eldercare market to shed light on how China’s economic reform entailed the creation of new institutions (e.g., eldercare market including eldercare labour market) and the reconfiguration of existing institutions (e.g., governance and regulation, the family, and the community). All this was needed for the market to flourish while maintaining and strengthening the regime. An urban eldercare market, including an eldercare labour market, was created by local governments (i.e., municipalities, districts, counties, and towns) with central government policy directives, in order to address China’s demographic aging and care crisis. However, once enough demand and supply were created, local governments turned to New Public Management (NPM) to operate publicly funded eldercare institutions. The paper argues that NPM has different rationalities in China than in liberal democracies; in China, they strengthen the Party and contribute to the durability of the authoritarian rule, rather than “shrink the state”. However, in China as in the West, bureaucratic logic hampers the implementation of NPM and the governance of the eldercare sector. The implication of bureaucratic logic driving the regulation of the eldercare sector is that care is not at the centre of eldercare. The paper also argues that the commodification and privatization of eldercare, in line with the global trend, was a deliberate government policy aimed at creating a positive condition for the market economy to flourish, but at the expense of social reproduction/care. Unlike many Western transitions to market provision, this one entailed the decline in the extended family as the main eldercare institution of the immediate past. However, the commodification and privatization of social reproduction have been incomplete and met with resistance, prompting the state to invest more in the sector to maintain social stability. Data for this paper derive from personal interviews with key informants and eldercare workers, official document analysis, and secondary literature analysis from Chinese scholars in mainland China.
Brothers in Arms? How Neoliberalism Connects North and South Higher Education: Finland and Portugal in Perspective
Authors: Diogo Sara Margarida , Carvalho Teresa
Published: May 2022

This paper puts in perspective the reforms of the Portuguese and Finnish higher education (HE) sectors in the light of the role intergovernmental organisations have—especially the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)—in influencing neoliberal public policies in these countries. On the year that the OECD celebrates its 62nd anniversary, (the OECD was founded with this name on 14 December 1960 by 20 countries, following the establishment of the former European Economic Co-operation (OEEC) in April 1948) and by comparing two different countries, this article analyses the extent to which the OECD has been and is an “imperial agent” in Portuguese and Finnish HE policies. By cross-comparing the OECD reports of both HE systems, the empirical data shows how the OECD proposes neoliberal reforms based on three main components of neoliberalism: market, management and performativity in different countries. Taking these proposals into account, Portugal and Finland undertook similar HE legislative reforms despite their geographical, historical, cultural and economic differences. The data reveal a convergence in HE policies in these countries, anticipating the reinforcement of neoliberal policies at the national level.
Crisis Communication and Resilience: Are Russian and Latvian Speakers in the Same Boat?
Authors: Struberga Sigita , Ozoliņa Žaneta
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic is testing the ability of the national governments to manage a crisis by covering policy sectors, which are decisive for health, well-being, sustainability of individuals, and society at large. Communication plays a crucial role in situations when society is at risk. Communication is a source of prevention, action, mitigation, and empowerment. Therefore, the ways and means of how national governments and governmental institutions implement adopted strategies, and how they make their actions understandable and reasonable to their societies, become an important element of crisis management at large. Diversification of the modern information environment makes governments’ communication even more complex. The media landscape, especially social media, impact reality’s perception, including crisis and emergencies. As a result, governments are struggling with different forms of messaging and a choice of narratives to be shared with the broader public or societal groups. Considering the existing division in the perception of political realities between Latvian and Russian-speaking communities, Latvia is a case of particular interest for analysis. The article aims to explore how the society has been led through the current crisis communication-wise by the government and what strategies are used for the particular linguistic groups. The article looks at the main factors influencing the perceptions of the Russian-speaking community in Latvia and the main reasons for the existing divergence between perceptions of Latvian and Russian-speaking representatives. The study is based on focus group interviews organized authors.
Ornamental Stone Processing Waste Incorporated in the Production of Mortars: Technological Influence and Environmental Performance Analysis
Authors: Moreira Pamella Inácio , de Oliveira Dias Josinaldo , de Castro Xavier Gustavo , Vieira Carlos Maurício , Alexandre Jonas , Monteiro Sergio Neves , Ribeiro Rogério Pinto , de Azevedo Afonso Rangel Garcez
Published: May 2022

The technological performance and environmental advantages of replacing sand by ornamental stone processing waste (OSPW) in the production of mortars for civil construction were studied. Technological properties associated with the standard consistency index, squeeze flow and bulk densities as well as the determination of water retention and calorimetry analysis were evaluated in the mortars’ fresh state, whereas capillarity tests as well as mechanical resistance by flexural and compression tests were determined in the hardened state for mortars incorporated with 10, 30 and 60 wt.% of OSPW substituting sand. Three different types of Portland Cements were considered in the incorporated mortars production. For these mortars environmental analysis, their corresponding life cycle assessment results were compared to that of conventional waste-free (0% OSPW) control mortar. It was found that the OPSW incorporation acts as nucleation sites favoring a hydration process, which culminates after 28 days of curing in the formation of more stable phases identified as hydrated calcium silicates by X-ray diffraction (XRD) amorphous halo. It was also revealed that both flexural and compression improved resistance for the incorporated mortars after 28 curing days. In particular, the calorimetry and XRD results explained the better mechanical resistance (12 MPa) of the 30 wt.% OSPW incorporated mortar, hardened with Portland Cement V, compared not only to the control, but also to the other incorporated mortars. As for the environmental analysis, the replacement of sand by OSPW contributed to the reduction in associated impacts in the categories of land use (−5%); freshwater eutrophication (−9%); marine eutrophication (−6%) and global warming (−5%).
Research on the Analytical Redundancy Method for the Control System of Variable Cycle Engine
Authors: Qiu Xiaojie , Chang Xiaodong , Chen Jie , Fan Baiqing
Published: May 2022

The safety and reliability of the measuring elements of an aero-engine are important preconditions of the stable operation of the engine control system. The number of control parameters of a variable cycle engine increases by 20%–40% compared to traditional engines. Therefore, it is important to conduct study on the analytical redundancy, design fault diagnosis and isolation of the sensors, as well as the signal reconstruction system, so as to increase the ratability and fault-tolerant capability of the variable cycle engine control system. The analytical redundancy method relies on the accuracy of the mathematical model of the engine. During the service cycle of the engine, it is inevitable that the engine performance will deteriorate, resulting in a mismatch with the model. In this paper, the adaptive model of the variable cycle engine is built with a Kalman filter. Based on this, the strategy of analytical redundancy logic is built and the dynamic adaptive calculation of the threshold is introduced. Simulation results reflect that this method can effectively increase the reliability of sensor fault diagnosis and the accuracy of the analytical redundancy when there is performance degradation of the variable cycle engine.
Understanding Current and Future Transport Needs of Older Australian Drivers to Guide Development of Sustainable and Smart Initiatives to Support Safe Mobility of Older Adults
Authors: Oxley Jennifer , Logan David B. , Coxon Selby , Koppel Sjaan
Published: May 2022

Access to adequate and appropriate transport options enables older people to continue as thriving community participants, to reach services and to maintain social connections. While transport needs are diverse, and tend to change over time, there is little information on current and future transport patterns, and the awareness, acceptance and adoption of new technologies. A national online survey was administered to current drivers in Australia. A sample of 705 drivers provided information on available travel modes and use of these modes, awareness of in-vehicle technologies and future use of vehicle technologies. The findings revealed high use of private vehicles, walking and taxis but little use of other travel modes (bicycles, motorcycles, rideshare, community services and public transport). Age, gender and residential location influenced the availability and use/potential use of some transport options. Overall awareness of in-vehicle technologies was generally low and particularly so amongst older and female participants. There was some appetite to use emerging technologies in the future. The findings inform the development of effective strategies and initiatives aligned with healthy ageing and wellbeing targets, increased sustainability, resilience and connectedness, creation of healthier travel choices and healthier environments to promote acceptance and use of a range of transport options and uptake of safer vehicles equipped with in-vehicle technologies to ultimately enhance safe and sustainable mobility of older road users.
Strategies for Enhancing Construction Waste Recycling: A Usability Analysis
Authors: Omer Mazen M. , Rahman Rahimi A. , Almutairi Saud
Published: May 2022

Prior works have suggested various strategies to increase construction waste recycling (CWR) rates. However, choosing the strategies is challenging without a lateral comparison. Therefore, this study aims to compare the usability of various strategies that target the enhancement of CWR implementation. To achieve this purpose, thirteen CWR enhancement strategies were identified from a systematic literature review. Then, questionnaire survey data were collected from 106 construction project managers. The collected data were analyzed via mean score ranking, normalization, overlap analysis, agreement analysis, and factor analysis. Additionally, the data were analyzed using a proposed formula for computing usability indexes using the cost, easiness, and effectiveness values. The results show that three strategies have high usability indexes: organize temporary bins in each construction zone, identify construction activities that produce recyclable materials, and enhance company policies related to CWR. These strategies with high usability indexes are consistent with the overlapping cheap, effective, and easy strategies. This study provides researchers and practitioners with optimal strategies for enhancing CWR implementation. Effective CWR enhancement strategies can improve CWR rates in construction projects. Future researchers can also adopt this study’s approach in computing usability indexes through questionnaire surveys.
Examining the Effectiveness of Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning for Language Proficiency Purposes
Authors: Dashkina Alexandra , Kobicheva Aleksandra , Lazovskaya Tatiana , Tokareva Elena , Tarkhov Dmitriy , Guselnikova Irina
Published: May 2022

(1) The main goal of this research was to assess the effectiveness of the computer-supported collaborative learning for language learning purposes using the indicators of students’ learning outcomes and the level of their engagement, as well as to determine the most effective benchmarks for teams’ forming. (2) Methods: A total of 81 undergraduate students studying at the Humanity Institute of Peter the Great Polytechnic University voluntarily participated in the study. For our research, we used the results on final English testing and survey results on students’ engagement. Each year, three groups of students were formed into teams according to three criteria: leadership skills, academic performance and personal choices. Microsoft Excel 2016 tools were used for data interpretation: testing samples for normality, a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and comparison of means. Neural network dependencies of test results were built by means of Mathematica Wolfram Software. (3) Results: According to the results of this study, the underlying principles of forming teams highly influenced the indicators of students’ English proficiency; in particular, the experiment proved the effectiveness of selecting students according to their academic performance. In addition, the correlation analysis revealed that the engagement of students played an important role and influenced the results of their learning. This was especially seen in a group where teams were distributed due to the differences in academic performance. (4) Conclusions: As the COVID-19 pandemic is an ever-changing situation, it is important to implement effective learning models that promote higher learning outcomes and students’ engagement. This study contributes to such knowledge and provides insightful implications to academia.
Research on Mechanical Behavior and Energy Evolution of Coal and Rocks with Different Thin Spray-On Liners Thickness under Uniaxial Compressive Loading
Authors: Zhao Yixin , Fu Xiang , Shi Yangyang , Zhao Bowen , Fu Xingyu , Zhang Xiufeng , Chen Yang
Published: May 2022

Compared with the traditional supporting materials such as the bolts, mesh, and concrete, thin spray-on liners (TSLs) have the advantages of improving impact energy bearing and absorption capacity of rocks. In this study, the uniaxial compressive mechanical response feature of white sandstone, yellow sandstone, and coal with different coating thickness of TSLs were investigated through laboratory tests and theoretical analysis. The hard segments and soft segments of TSLs induced microphase separation, and formed the physical cross-linking. The hard segment evenly dispersed in the soft segment, which improved the mechanical strength of the TSLs. The confining pressure was affected by the TSL-coated coal and rocks, which improved the mechanical strength of the rocks and coal under UCS loading. It was discovered that the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) increases with an increase in the TSL coating thickness, and UCS increments of the coated white sandstone, yellow sandstone and coal were 4.6%, 25.51%, and 43.75%, respectively. The energy absorption capacities of the coated coal, and yellow and white sandstones gradually decreased with an increase in their TSLs coating thickness. Meanwhile, the energy-absorbing capacity of a coated rock reduced gradually as rock coating decreases. Furthermore, the energy-absorbing capacity of coal is greater than that of yellow sandstone or white sandstone. By increasing the coating thickness, the total and dissipative energies in the yellow sandstone, white sandstone, and coal specimens were gradually increased, and energy increment was significantly more in coal (2–3 times), while the elastic energy remained nearly unchanged.
The Influence of Municipal Wastewater Treatment Technologies on the Biological Stabilization of Sewage Sludge: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cárdenas-Talero José Luis , Silva-Leal Jorge Antonio , Pérez-Vidal Andrea , Torres-Lozada Patricia
Published: May 2022

Various wastewater treatment technologies are available today and biological processes are predominantly used in these technologies. Increasing wastewater treatment systems produces large amounts of sewage sludge with variable quantities and qualities, which must be properly managed. Anaerobic and aerobic digestion and composting are major strategies to treat this sludge. The main indicators of biological stabilization are volatile fatty acids (VFAs), volatile solids (VS), the carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratio, humic substances (HS), the total organic carbon (TOC), the carbon dioxide (CO2) evolution rate, the specific oxygen uptake rate (SOUR), and the Dewar test; however, different criteria exist for the same indicators. Although there is no consensus for defining the stability of sewage sludge (biosolids) in the research and regulations reviewed, controlling the biological degradation, vector attraction, and odor determines the biological stabilization of sewage sludge. Because pollutants and pathogens are not completely removed in biological stabilization processes, further treatments to improve the quality of biosolids and to ensure their safe use should be explored.
Diffusing Environmental Management Practices within the Firm: The Role of Information Provision
Authors: Lenox Michael J. , Toffel Michael W.
Published: May 2022

Why are some firms more successful in adopting profitable environmental management practices than others? A key role of corporate managers is to encourage subsidiaries to adopt innovative practices. We examine the conditions under which corporate managers use information provision to encourage subsidiaries to adopt advanced environmental management practices. Focusing on the distribution of expertise across subsidiaries, we propose that corporate managers are more likely to elect an information provision strategy when subsidiaries (i) possess moderate levels of related expertise, (ii) exhibit significant heterogeneity in this expertise, and (iii) are more diversified and less concentrated. We study the diffusion of pollution prevention practices by firms in the information and communication technology sector in the United States and find empirical support for our four hypotheses. These findings promote a greater understanding of which firms adopt advanced environmental management practices and when firms adopt information provision strategies to encourage knowledge transfer within the organization.
Fintech and Financial Risks of Systemically Important Commercial Banks in China: An Inverted U-Shaped Relationship
Authors: Chen Baomin , Yang Xinyun , Ma Zhenzhong
Published: May 2022

The past decade has seen impressive developments in financial technology (FinTech) in China. As a new technology and innovative method that competes with, and also supplements, traditional financial methods, fintech has had a significant impact on traditional financial businesses and has thus challenged the role of commercial banks as credit intermediaries in the financial sector. This paper examines the potential risks that fintech brings to commercial banks in China, and collects data from 19 systemically important banks from 2011–2020 to analyze the effect of fintech development on commercial banks’ financial risks in order to achieve sustainable development in the financial sector. Using the Z value and non-performing loan ratio as the criterion variables, this study shows that the impact of fintech on the financial risks of systemically important banks demonstrates an inverted U-shaped pattern, with the financial risk increasing first and then decreasing alongside the further development of fintech. The results also show that commercial banks’ responses to fintech development has been comparatively slow. Managerial suggestions are then discussed on risk supervision for commercial banks and the financial sector in China and other emerging markets.
Using Lean to Improve Operational Performance in a Retail Store and E-Commerce Service: A Portuguese Case Study
Authors: Marques Pedro Alexandre , Jorge Diana , Reis João
Published: May 2022

Ensuring on-shelf availability is essential for retailers to maintain high service levels for both in-store and E-Commerce consumers. The performance of this indicator largely depends on reorder planning decisions, as well as on the effectiveness of the replenishment process. This paper presents a case study that involved two Lean initiatives, which together have contributed to a significantly reduction in the number of out-of-stock events incurred by a retail store and an increase in the order fulfilment rate accomplished by the online commerce service. In the first initiative, a value stream management (VSM) methodology was adopted to redesign the existing replenishment process in the most relevant fresh food market: fruits and vegetables. The second initiative involved the implementation of a simple, but effective visual inventory management system in the warehouse of the E-Commerce division, where a wide set of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) is stored using kanban cards. This paper hence demonstrates, through practical application, that Lean tools can be employed to improve operational processes with positive impacts on both the physical store performance and on results regarding the online commerce business.
Environmental and Energy-Efficiency Considerations for Selecting Building Envelopes
Authors: Zaborova Daria , Musorina Tatiana
Published: May 2022

Life cycle assessments in the construction industry reveal that 70–80% of all CO2 emissions occur precisely at the stage of material production (stages A1–A3 of the life cycle). Therefore, not only does the strength and thermal properties of the material selected for construction have major importance, but also the environmental impact of the material and the amount of energy spent to extract, manufacture and transport the materials. The paper presents the thermal calculations for envelope structures, assessing their environmental impact with respect to three parameters: carbon dioxide emissions, total energy consumption and amount of waste generated during material production. The research method used was an analysis of documents from real manufacturers and calculations of the main environmental parameters. Our investigation has led us to conclude that the largest amount of carbon dioxide emissions is produced by structures containing reinforced concrete, since the weight fraction of concrete is significantly greater than that of all other compared materials. The largest amount of non-renewable energy is consumed by structures containing clay bricks and reinforced concrete, since they consist of natural sources. The largest amount of waste is generated by structures containing expanded polystyrene and reinforced concrete consisting of cement, whose production in turn generates a large amount of waste.
Repurposing and the Impact of New Facilities on the Potential Presentation of Industrial Heritage
Authors: Aranđelović Miloš , Videnović Aleksandar , Gadžić Nebojša , Tomanović Dušan
Published: May 2022

Industrial heritage combines historical, architectural and cultural values of the context in which it is located. In order for the spatial and architectural potential of these buildings to be used even after the loss of their initial purpose, the previous plants become the hub of new activity through repurposing and adjustment. This study is focused on the interpolation of hotel and business/trade activities within the previous industrial complex Belgrade “Steam Mill” where the practical issues related to the implementation of this entire process have been presented by means of a detailed analysis (case study). Repurposing of the old plant has been accepted as an evolutionary model of integrative protection. This paper names the shifts in the social and economic context of ex-Yugoslavia and adoption of new economic and cultural patterns as one of the causes for the abandonment of the Mill and its fall into disrepair. Accordingly, the contribution of this paper is based on an overview of a potential identification of a specific model for future actions in similar situations and in relation to the industrial heritage of the Republic of Serbia. The critical analysis of the results of Steam Mill repurposing presented in this paper implies the reviewing of both positive and negative aspects of the said process with the aim of understanding the significance of appropriate planning and use of future facilities in relation to the protection and promotion of cultural heritage values of general interest.
Key Determinants of Luxury Marketing Accordant with Sustainability-Oriented Value Perspectives
Authors: Kelleci Alpaslan
Published: May 2022

Thus far, Luxury as Usual has rested on conventual forms of value, such as rarity, excellence, and uniqueness. Nevertheless, today, luxury value perceptions have been changing dramatically, with the emergence of new luxury consumption patterns as well as sustainability-oriented value perspectives. The overarching aim of the current study is to guide tradition-bound luxury brands in attaining competitive advantage by tapping into the key determinants of sustainable luxury. In tackling the key determinants, the paper aspires to provide a theoretical lens by building on the “Four-Stage Model of Value Creation for Sustainability-Oriented Marketing”. This paper also offers a roadmap for luxury brands in transforming their traditional-oriented marketing strategies by providing a “4 × 6 Matrix for the Key Determinants of Sustainable Luxury”, which codifies and systematizes sustainability-oriented luxury marketing.
Exploiting Technology to Deal with the COVID-19 Challenges in Travel & Tourism: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Ndou Valentina , Mele Gioconda , Hysa Eglantina , Manta Otilia
Published: May 2022

This article discusses how travel and tourism organizations, the hardest-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, have used the technology tools to deal with COVID challenges. Specifically, through a bibliometric literature review of relevant research papers on the topic of tourism and COVID-19, we provide evidence of how COVID-19 has accelerated the adoption and diffusion of various technologies by different stakeholders in the tourism value chain, and we show how these technologies have been used to deal with the challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic. The review evidences the main research areas and allows to define future directions. Thus, we conclude this article by discussing how COVID-19 offers a unique opportunity for rethinking and renovating the tourism offer through technology.
Wind Characteristics and Wind Energy Potential in Andean Towns in Northern Peru between 2016 and 2020: A Case Study of the City of Chachapoyas
Authors: Rascón Jesús , Gosgot Angeles Wildor , Oliva-Cruz Manuel , Barrena Gurbillón Miguel Ángel
Published: May 2022

Currently, climate change and population growth have a significant impact on human beings. Furthermore, these factors are generating a great need for energy to sustain present-day pace of life. For this reason, this research aims to determine the wind potential of the city of Chachapoyas, through the study of wind direction and speed using a wind rose. Data were obtained from the Metrological Station located on the University Campus of the National University Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza (UNTRM) for developing this diagram. The mentioned station had 15% of missing data, therefore a quality control of the data and multiple imputations was carried out to fill in any missing data. The results obtained show that the winds in this area are mostly weak (from 0 to 3 m/s) with an East-Northeast (ENE) and Northeast (NE) direction for both the studied period and for each year of the period. It has also been determined that there is a difference between the wet and dry seasons in terms of wind frequency. Finally, we conclude that, in the city of Chachapoyas, it is possible to generate wind energy by using low-power vertical axis wind turbines.
Public Understanding of Ignorance as Critical Science Literacy
Authors: Medvecky Fabien
Published: May 2022

We are largely ignorant. At least, there are many more things we are ignorant of than knowledgeable of. Yet, the common perception of ignorance as a negative trait has left it rather unloved in debates around making knowledge public, including science communication in its various guises. However, ignorance is a complex and essential part of science; it performs a number of legitimate roles, and is performed in a range of legitimate ways within science. In this paper, I argue that it is vital to understand when ignorance is an appropriate, legitimate part of the scientific process, and when ignorance is misused or abused in science. I argue that understanding ignorance is a central aspect of public understanding of science, especially in terms critical science literacy. Critical science literacy argues that more than simply an understanding of scientific facts and processes, a key component of what scientific literacy should aim for is an understanding of the tacit knowledge of science. I present a typology of ignorance and argue that fostering a greater public understanding of ignorance is a rarely acknowledged, yet essential, aspect of making science public, and that it is a challenge that those engaged in and committed to better public understanding of science should take very seriously.
Applicability of Olympic Values in Sustainable Development
Authors: Park Sungjoo , Lim Dayoun
Published: May 2022

Sustainable development (SD) refers to development that can meet present needs, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. For global citizens to acquire and understand SD-related knowledge and cultivate the ability to apply and practice the principles of sustainability, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is essential. This study examines how ESD can be promoted through the Olympic Value Education Program (OVEP)—an initiative by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for spreading the Olympic spirit. It draws inferences for addressing the shortcomings of the current ESD models. To that end, it analyzes the relationship between ESD and the OVEP, their relationships with SD, concepts, content, goals, and methods, by reviewing existing literature. The study found that the OVEP can act as a tool for ESD and has the potential to allow the effective acquisition of sustainability capabilities. Additionally, it found that since Olympic value education and SD have common goals, they can develop harmoniously to promote ESD.
Joining Sustainable Design and Internet of Things Technologies on Campus: The IPVC Smartbottle Practical Case
Authors: Curralo Ana Filomena , Lopes Sérgio Ivan , Mendes João , Curado António
Published: May 2022

Higher education institutions (HEIs) are favored environments for the implementation of technological solutions that accelerate the generation of smart campi, given the dynamic ecosystem they create based on the involvement of inspired and motivated human resources (students, professors, and researchers), moving around in an atmosphere of advanced digital infrastructures and services. Moreover, HEIs have, in their mission, not only the creation of integrated knowledge through Research and Development (R&D) activities but also solving societal problems that address the academic community expectations concerning environmental issues, contributing, therefore, towards a greener society embodied within the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This article addresses the design and implementation of a Smartbottle Ecosystem in which an interactive and reusable water bottle communicates with an intelligent water refill station, both integrated by the Internet of Things (IoT) and Information and Communications Technologies (ICT), to eliminate the use of single-use plastic water bottles in the premises of the Polytechnical Institute of Viana do Castelo (IPVC), an HEI with nearly 6000 students. Three main contributions were identified in this research: (i) the proposal of a novel methodology based on the association of Design Thinking and Participatory Design as the basis for Sustainable Design; (ii) the design and development of an IoT-enabled smartbottle prototype; and (iii) the usability evaluation of the proposed prototype. The adopted methodology is rooted in Design Thinking and mixes it with a Participatory Design approach, including the end-user opinion throughout the Smartbottle Ecosystem design process, not only for the product design requirements but also for its specification. By promoting a participatory solution tailored to the IPVC academic community, recycled plastic has been identified as the preferential material and a marine mammal was selected for the smartbottle shape, in the process of developing a solution to replace the single-use plastic bottles.