bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping the buildings stability at urban extent based on MT-InSAR and 3D rigid motion reconstruction method
Authors: Grassi Francesca , Mancini Francesco , Dallari Veronica , Bassoli Elisa , Vincenzi Loris
Published: March 2024

The recent and planned launch of high-resolution and short revisit time Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite missions, along with the use of advanced multi-temporal interferometric techniques, has opened up new possibilities in the field of structure and infrastructure monitoring. The cited techniques are capable of providing displacement time series of stable targets at the ground with millimetre accuracy. They are particularly relevant for preventive conservation, maintenance, and health assessment of existing built heritage.A method for reconstructing the 3D rigid motion of isolated buildings from a dual-orbit set of SAR data has recently been proposed by the authors. In that work, the assessment of the significance of the computed motion components has received particular attention due to the low entity of displacement that could potentially affect the buildings. The method was tested on COSMO-SkyMed SAR data processed using an open-source procedure. The results indicate that it is possible to detect displacements in the order of a few mm/yr and rotations in the order of mrad/yr with corresponding uncertainties that are one order of magnitude smaller than the associated parameters.This work combines the proposed structural investigation method with a Geographic Information System (GIS) dataset to develop a methodology for assessing building stability at an urban extent. GIS layers were used to define the spatial relation between scatterer locations and building shape, detecting targets belonging to buildings and retrieving the precise heights of the scatterers. The 3D rigid motion analysis was conducted for all individual buildings in the area with relevant uncertainties assessment. The workflow is able to map the potential stability issues of single buildings, at urban extent, as starting point for further investigation.The methodology has been tested on the city of Modena (Italy) and GIS layers representing the classification of building stability is presented.Funding: The methodology adopted in the present research was partially developed in the frame of the Progetti di Rilevante Interesse Nazionale (PRIN) 2022 DAMAGE “Damage Analysis and Monitoring of Ancient structures interacting with Geotechnical Excavations”, contract E53D23002550006.
Hybrid Framework for Water-Energy-Food Nexus Digital Twin Data Collection 
Authors: Saeed Nagham , Ardakanian Atiyeh , Choe Peng Leo , Hui Weng Goh
Published: March 2024

In our research, we investigate the integration of the water-energy-food (WEF) nexus into a unified system and claim it is a critical step in achieving food security, while minimizing environmental degradation. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of these essential resources and highlights the importance of a holistic and modern strategy in addressing global sustainability challenges. We facilitate this integration through Digital Twins (DTs), offering a virtual representation of this nexus. A critical step in developing a WEF Nexus DT is the collection of relevant data. Our project demonstrates that a hybrid approach is essential to gather comprehensive data for an effective WEF DT model. While traditional methods remain invaluable, they need to be combined with state-of-the-art technology. For instance, water quality, a key parameter in the WEF DT, is currently best assessed through direct sampling rather than IoT sensors or satellite data. Equally, energy parameters can be effectively monitored via satellite, and food production data can be accurately collected using IoT sensors. This hybrid data collection framework underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach, integrating both conventional and advanced technologies, to build a robust and reliable WEF Nexus DT.
Spatio-temporal dynamics of groundwater biogeochemistry in the deep subsurface of high-energy beaches
Authors: Reckhardt Anja , Roberts Magali , Böttcher Michael E. , Meyer Rena , Wurl Oliver , Pahnke Katharina , Massmann Gudrun
Published: March 2024

Intertidal permeable high energy beach systems represent complex biogeochemical reactors which attract increasing scientific attention. In these environments morphology variations lead to complex and dynamic groundwater flow paths, saltwater-freshwater mixing zones, and changing biogeochemical conditions. The aim of our study was to assess the spatio-temporal dynamics in the hydrobiogeochemistry of the continuum between a deep subterranean estuary (STE) and the surface of a high-energy beach on Spiekeroog Island (Germany). Several permanent wells distributed along a cross-shore transect (supratidal to intertidal zone) allowed for regular groundwater sampling down to 24 m below ground surface (mbgs). Additional direct push sampling helped to obtain a high resolution cross-sectional view on the deep STE groundwater biogeochemistry. We found salinities below 10 near the dunes increasing to a salinity of about 30 towards the intertidal zone. Tide- and wave induced seawater circulation reached down to more than 24 mbgs. Oxygen and NO3- penetrated 12-15 mbgs deep, at least in the supratidal to upper intertidal area. Below and towards the low water line, conditions were Fe-(hydr)oxide-reducing and accumulating Fe sulfides indicated active microbial net sulfate reduction. At few sites, the concurrent presence of dissolved NO3- and Fe indicated overlapping redox zones. Deep old freshwater from Spiekeroog’s fresh groundwater lens mixed with the saline groundwater in the lower intertidal zone and added nutrients, especially Si, but lowered dissolved Mn and Fe concentrations. Accordingly, these parameters followed the temporally varying location of freshwater discharge at this site. Except for this most seaward well site, biogeochemical conditions were found to be relatively stable in the zone below 12 mbgs of the STE and more variable above. Temporal changes related to seasonally varying input and processing of organic material seemed to be restricted to the top few mbgs around the high-water line, where tide-induced infiltration regularly adds young seawater to the beach system. In the next step, the results will be analyzed by reactive-transport modeling to allow for a further general understanding and extrapolation of flow and reaction dynamics in the deep subsurface below high-energy beaches.
Sudden Storm Commencement detection with SVM classifiers using ground magnetic data
Authors: Tournier Frédéric , Lesur Vincent , Coïsson Pierdavide
Published: March 2024

When a cloud of plasma from a corona mass ejection hits the Earth's magnetosphere, a rapid perturbation of the magnetopause current systems occurs. It generates a signal that is detected worldwide by ground magnetic observatories in the form of a Sudden Storm Commencement (SSC). This signal has an amplitude of approximatively 20 nT but is similar to signals generated by other phenomena. Existing lists of SSCs had been set by human inspection of magnetic time series. We have implemented and tested a method to automatically detect SSC events using Support Vector Machines (SVM) classifiers within one-second data collected in the network of IPGP magnetic observatories.
Multi-hazard Impact Assessment for Volcanic and Storm Hazards: the Saint Vincent Case Study
Authors: Prasetya Salsabila , Manzella Irene , van Westen Cees
Published: March 2024

Small Island-Developing States (SDIS) are susceptible to a broad range of risks coupled with a constrained capacity to manage them effectively. The Caribbean is one of three geographical regions in which SDIS are located, with a high vulnerability to multi-hazard events, such as tropical storms and volcanic eruptions. According to the European Commission, the Caribbean is the second most disaster-prone region in the world with extreme climatic events. Based on the EM-DAT database, tropical storms are the most frequent disastrous event in the Caribbean. A tropical storm triggers a combination of coupled hazardous phenomena such as strong winds and heavy rainfall which often leads to floods and landslides. The Caribbean also lies on several active tectonic plates which makes it home to several active volcanoes. There are 21 volcanoes across 11 volcanically active islands.
A low-probability high-impact combination of compounding storm and volcanic event happened in 2021 in Saint Vincent where an eruption of the La Soufriere volcano was followed by a storm which triggered several lahars and other cascading effects. Based on historical event records, volcanic eruptions occur on average every 77 to 94 years in Saint Vincent alternating between effusive and explosive eruptions. Meanwhile, tropical depressions affect the island on average once every 3 years for direct hit or brush and 18 years for major hurricane hit. This study will assess the impact of compounding storms and volcanic events in the Caribbean with a case study from Saint Vincent.  

A comprehensive multi-hazard risk assessment which considers multiple spatial and temporal scales plays a role in disaster risk reduction and response planning. The present work uses a multi-hazard and multi-phase modular framework based on literature review of historical events in Saint Vincent. Several scenarios are developed that show a variety of hazard types and intensities as well as the impacts. Impact chain models are used to present these scenarios. Impact chains are conceptual models based on cause-effect chains that include all major factors and processes leading to specific risks in a specific context. Compounding scenarios developed resulted in impacts much more severe as compared to the individual events. This study highlights the importance of studying compounding risks and the effectiveness of impact chains assessment for better disaster risk reduction planning and mitigation.

 

Keywords: multi-hazard, impact assessment, impact chain, volcanic eruption, storm, hurricane, Caribbean. 
Reproducibility of high field magnetic remanence: Implications for precision of high field remanence anisotropy
Authors: Hrouda Frantisek , Chadima Martin , Jezek Josef
Published: March 2024

It was shown in the earlier model studies that the precision in the determination of the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) depends in a directly proportional way on the precision of the measurement of the directional susceptibility in relation to the degree of anisotropy. These results can be closely applied to the measurement of the anisotropy of magnetic remanence (AMR).While the AMR imparted in weak to moderate fields is relatively frequently used in rock fabric studies, only a few attempts to establish the anisotropy of magnetic remanence imparted in high fields (HFRA) were reported. The reasons for the virtual absence of the HFRA studies may be both instrumental (insufficient precision in setting up the intensity of magnetizing field, insufficiently homogeneous magnetizing field) and methodological (time variation of imparted remanence, unknown properties of high field remanence).Recently, an impulse magnetizer was developed (commercial name PUMA) that enables the standard palaeomagnetic specimen to be magnetized in a defined orientation in the wide range of magnetic fields from 1 mT to 5 T. Elaborate design of the instrument provides precise setting of the pulse intensity as well as high homogeneity of the field over entire specimen volume. In addition, reproducibility in imparting the remanence in the same direction by the same field was investigated as well as it was investigated whether it is desirable to demagnetize the specimen between individual magnetizations to improve the remanence reproducibility despite that each high field magnetization (“saturation”) theoretically obliterates the previous remanence. The investigations were made on specimens having single mineral ferromagnetic fraction (magnetite, hematite and pyrrhotite ones). The results help us to decide whether the HFRA is convenient to most rocks or only to strongly magnetic and strongly anisotropic ones.
Exploring the Role of Interactive Methane in Earth System Models used for Climate Projections
Authors: O'Connor Fiona , Folberth Gerd , Gedney Nicola , Jones Chris
Published: March 2024

Methane plays a crucial role in the Earth System as a greenhouse gas and a tropospheric ozone precursor. However, in Phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6), Earth System Models predominantly relied on prescribed surface methane concentrations derived from historical observations or predefined future pathways. This study uses novel Earth System Model capability to investigate the impact of an emissions-driven methane cycle, including interactive wetland emissions. Specifically, we explore the influence of interactive methane on the effective radiative forcing of carbon dioxide and the model’s transient and equilibrium climate responses to changes in carbon dioxide.The response of the climate to external forcings is intricately linked to climate feedbacks. With the inclusion of an interactive methane cycle in Earth System Models, understanding how changes in carbon dioxide and climate affect the methane cycle becomes imperative. This work critically re-evaluates the CMIP6 assessment of methane feedbacks and, for the first time, disentangles both the biophysical and radiative effects of carbon dioxide on wetland emissions and methane lifetime. By enabling the interaction of the biophysical and radiative effects of carbon dioxide with natural methane emissions, concentrations, and climate responses, this presentation highlights the necessity of incorporating interactive methane components in Earth System Models. Notably, this approach provides scientists with the means to assess the direct implications of methane emission reduction policies and climate feedbacks on meeting global climate and air quality targets.
Comparison of heat mitigation effects of blue roofs and green roofs on building wall temperature and thermal outdoor comfort based on scenario analyses using 3D microclimate modelling for a dense urban district 
Authors: Eingrüber Nils , Korres Wolfgang , Schneider Karl
Published: March 2024

Heat stress is a major challenge in urban areas, especially in cities which are affected by the urban heat island effect. Adaptation measures are a key strategy to mitigate future heat and health consequences in the context of climate change. To improve both indoor and outdoor microclimatic conditions and thermal comfort, nature-based solutions like roof greenings or wet roofs are implemented as they do not require additional space in dense urban environments. However, cooling effects of evaporation- and transpiration-based adaptation measures are limited by water availability to enable latent heat flux and reduce sensible and wall heat flux during extreme prolonged heat events. Water storage systems like rainfed cisterns can supply water for roof greenings or wet roofs during hot periods, but also store storm water to reduce flooding risks. While individual green roofs or blue roofs only show small local cooling potentials in their direct surrounding of their installation, scaling such measures for a larger proportion of buildings can cause significant cooling effects for the entire air volume of a city. This research aims to simulate heat mitigation effects of blue and green roofs on building wall temperature and thermal outdoor comfort using the physically-based microclimate model ENVI-met. A 16-ha 3D gridded model domain of a dense urban district in the city of Cologne/Germany was parameterized using remote sensing data and field observations. The model is validated based on a quality-controlled, densely-distributed microclimate measurement network with 59 sensors which was setup in the study area. A new model parameterization for wet roofs was developed. Scenario analyses are performed to scale these measures up to an implementation on all 338 buildings in the model domain (100%). Statistically significant average cooling effects of -0.52 K and up to -2.67 K on air temperature and -3.85 K and up to -29.03 K on building roof wall temperature were found for blue roofs in relation to the reference run of the status-quo. For roof greenings, average cooling effects of -0.76 K and up to -3.01 K for air temperature and -12.82 K and up to -39.45 K for wall temperature were determined. Cooling effects of green roofs on outdoor air temperature are strongest during daytime, and for wet roofs strongest in the evenings. Green roofs also have a higher wall cooling potential than blue roofs during daytime. However, roof greenings only show small effects on wall temperatures during nighttime, while blue roofs slightly heat up walls in nighttime. In future research, climate change adaptation and heat mitigation potentials of combining blue and green roofs with other nature-based and technical solutions in the street canyons will be analysed. 
An Example of Determining Fault Properties from Morphological Analysis of Pockmarks is Sapanca Lake, Located on the North Anatolian Fault, Turkiye
Authors: Sönmez Enes , Kurt Hülya
Published: March 2024

Lake Sapanca is located in the Eastern Marmara region of Turkiye and formed as a tectonic lake by the right-lateral strike slip North Anatolian Fault (NAF). Located 33 m above sea level, this tectonic lake has a length of 16 km in the east-west direction and 5 km in the north-south direction. The area in which the lake is located is on the Izmit-Sapanca Corridor, which is bordered by the segments of the northern branch of the NAF, between the Samanlı Mountains to the south and the Kocaeli Peneplain to the north. Multibeam bathymetry and high-resolution seismic data were acquired in the lake as a part of a TUBITAK project (Project No: 117Y130) in August 2018 to determine the structural and stratigraphic elements of the lake. Many pockmark structures, as well as lineaments related to the NAF, were observed on multibeam maps giving cm-scale resolution on the lake bottom. Thus, the effects of NAF in the lake can be better determined depending on the geometrical properties of the pockmarks, more than 300 in number, which are formed due to gas or fluid outflows from the lake-bottom, and their distribution in certain parts of the lake. In order to determine these features of pockmarks, semi-automatic approaches of QGIS and ARCGIS software programs were used and it was observed that the pockmark distribution increased along the lineament direction of the NAF and in the northeast of the lake. Moreover, we conclude that, the consistent orientation of the individual pockmarks may indicate that all pockmarks were formed in a relatively short period of time or that the bottom current regime in the lake has been effective for a long time. 
River channel confluence routing based on steep slope
Authors: Xia Zhongye
Published: March 2024

The one-dimensional hydrodynamic model is widely used in the study of river flood evolution by studying the time-varying patterns of hydraulic factors such as river cross-section flow and water level. The Saint-Venant equations are based on the assumption that the river bottom specific drop is very small, and the difference between water depth h and Z-Zd can be ignored, that is, cosα≈1.0, where α is the river bottom specific drop. However, this small slope assumption is invalid for mountainous areas or real steep river topography in headwaters. On the basis of considering the specific drop of the river bottom, the study decomposes the runoff gravity and pressure in the direction of water flow movement, constructs a flow calculation equation based on the momentum decomposition of steep slopes, and uses a power law curve to limit the parameters of the equation, thereby more accurately simulating steep slopes. Flood evolution movement in river channels.
The Protective Effect of Mixed Physical Barrier in Heterogeneous Aquifers: Experimental and Numerical Study
Authors: Abdoulhalik Antoifi , Ahmed Ashraf , Abd-Elaty Ismail
Published: March 2024

The ability of mixed physical barrier (MPB) as a seawater intrusion countermeasure was explored in heterogeneous coastal aquifer settings. The performance of MPB was examined in a synthetic aquifer containing a low permeability interlayer sandwiched between two layers of high permeability (case HLH). The performance of the MPB was compared to that of a single cut-off wall for various hydraulic gradients in a laboratory setting, whereby performance was measured in terms of measuring the percentage of reduction of the intrusion length. Also, numerical simulations were conducted using SEAWAT to validate and further examine the effects of various layering patterns on MPB performance. In total, five additional heterogeneous scenarios were simulated, including a scenario where a low permeability layer was set at the top of the aquifer (case LH), at the lower part of the aquifer (case HL), at the top and bottom part of the aquifer (case LHL), and two cases with monotonically increasing/ decreasing permeability from top to bottom. The sensitivity of the percentage reduction to the MPB design and hydrogeological parameters was examined thereafter. Experimental results demonstrate that the MPB could perform better than the single cutoff wall, with up to 55 % more reduction of the intrusion length. Also, the numerical results showed that the MPB remained effective regardless of the stratification patterns adopted, whereby it achieved at least around 70% SWI length reduction. The results also showed that the effectiveness of MPB was very sensitive to the thickness of the middle layer as well as the permeability ratio. While increasing the thickness of the interlayer induced a negative impact on the MPB performance, a reduction in the permeability of the interlayer induced better reduction. The findings of this study provide insight into the main parameters affecting the performance of the MPB system in realistic layered heterogeneous coastal aquifer scenarios and further evidence of its reliability as a practical countermeasure for SWI.
The Paleozoic subduction-splicing-extension process of the North China and South China Blocks: Constraints from sedimentary provenance of the Devonian Liuling Group and surrounding strata in the South Qinling Belt, China
Authors: Zhang Leigang , Qu Hongjun , Li Peng
Published: March 2024

Much controversy exists regarding the timing of the Paleozoic amalgamation between the North China Block (NCB) and South China Block (SCB). The northern region of South Qinling belt (N-SQB) provides massive information about the Paleozoic subduction-splicing-extension process of the NCB and SCB, in which the volcanic-sedimentary successions of fore-arc sedimentary system (FAS) and the sedimentary successions of Devonian Liuling Group (DLLG) provide an ideal location to constrain the closure time of the Shangdan Ocean. Systematic field-based sedimentology, sandstone model composition, whole-rock elemental composition, and detrital zircon U-Pb dating were employed in this study. Our results reveal that there are four types of sedimentary systems, including wave-dominated littoral, tide-dominated littoral, storm-dominated epeiric sea shelf, and abyssal-bathyal systems in DLLG, and the sedimentary sequence indicates that the water depth during the deposition of DLLG deepened and then shallowed, which are the characteristic of an extensional basin. The FAS, DLLG and Carboniferous of N-SQB, and Devonian of the middle region of South Qinling belt (M-SQB), mainly consist of sedimentary tuff and lithic sandstone, quartz sandstone and lithic sandstone, and feldspathic quartz sandstone, in which the rock debris is mainly volcanic and sedimentary rock debris, metamorphic quartz and sedimentary rock debris, and sedimentary rock debris, respectively, indicating that the source material comes from the magmatic rock material of the recycled orogenic belt, basement material of the recycled orogenic belt, and craton area, respectively. The whole-rock elemental composition results suggest that the tectonic setting of the provenance of the N-SQB were continental island arc and active continental margin, whereas the tectonic setting of the Devonian of M-SQB and passive continental margin. LA-ICP–MS detrital zircon U–Pb dating analysis shows that the provenances of the N-SQB were the North Qinling belt (NQB) and NCB, whereas the provenances of the Devonian strata of the M-SQB were the South Qinling belt (SQB) and SCB. An age population with single peak at 420 Ma from andesitic lithic tuff in the FAS suggests that the island arc existed at 420 Ma, hinting the subduction did not finish and the Shangdan Ocean did not close until Late Silurian. The DLLG sediments were mainly sourced from the basement material of the NQB, indicating that the Shangdan Ocean closed before the Middle Devonian, which implies that the NQB and SQB were spliced in Early Devonian. This fast transition from subduction to extension and the absence of molasse hint that no full orogeny occurred in the splicing process. Therefore, we propose that the Liuling Group formed in a post-splicing extensional rift basin.
Strong regulation of permafrost coverage on runoff recession in the high-altitude permafrost basin
Authors: Jiang Huiru , Yi Yonghong , Li Rongxing
Published: March 2024

Permafrost plays a crucial role in influencing regional water resources by impeding surface water infiltration and regulating surface runoff discharge. Great efforts have been made to investigate the hydrological effects of permafrost degradation, but the underlying mechanisms behind the impacts of permafrost change on runoff production remain unclear, especially in the high-altitudinal permafrost basins with high spatial heterogeneity and limited soil observations. Therefore, this study combines long-term discharge records, process-based model simulations and remote sensing measurements to investigate the characteristics of runoff recession processes, which directly reflect the variation of soil storages affected by permafrost changes. With 60-year daily discharge records from eight high-altitude permafrost basins and subbasins of the Tibetan Plateau, we first analyzed the long-term temporal evolution of runoff recession rates. Then taking the source region of the Yangtze River (SRYR) in the central Tibetan Plateau as an example, we further investigated the specific soil freeze/thaw (F/T) factors that impact the runoff recession rates, by modifying a process-based permafrost hydrology model and simulating the soil F/T dynamics and related hydrological responses.The preliminary results show that permafrost coverage strongly impacts the storage-discharge relationships indicated by runoff recession rates. In basins with high permafrost coverage (>80%), the long-term runoff recession rates exhibit a significant decreasing trend across all recession events, and a discontinuous runoff recession process is generally observed during the autumn and early winter recession periods. With a reduction in the permafrost coverage, we did not observe a significant trend in the long-term recession rate except for the recession events during early freezing periods (around autumn). In basins with much lower permafrost coverage (
Molecular composition, optical properties, and radiative forcing of water-soluble brown carbon in seasonal snow samples from northern Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhou Yue , Wang Xin , Laskin Alexander
Published: March 2024

Water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) and its brown carbon (BrC) components in the cryosphere have significant impact on the biogeochemistry cycling and snow/ice surface energy balance. In this study, snow samples were collected across regional area of northern Xinjiang, China to investigate the chemical composition, optical properties, and radiative forcing (RF) of WSOC. Based on the geographic differences and proximity of emission sources, the sampling sites were grouped as urban (U), remote (R), and soil-influenced (S) sites, for which WSOC concentrations were measured as 1968±953 ng g-1 (U), 885±328 ng g-1 (R), and 2082±1438 ng g-1 (S), respectively. The S sites showed the higher mass absorption coefficients at 365 nm (MAC365) of 0.94±0.31 m2 g-1 compared to those of U and R sites (0.39±0.11 m2 g-1 and 0.38±0.12 m2 g-1, respectively). Molecular-level characterization of WSOC using high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) provided further insights into chemical differences among samples. Specifically, much more reduced S-containing species with high degree of unsaturation and aromaticity were identified in U samples, suggesting an anthropogenic source. Aliphatic/proteins-like species showed highest contribution in R samples, indicating their biogenic origin. The WSOC components from S samples showed high oxygenation and saturation levels. The WSOC-induced RF were estimated as 0.04 to 0.59 W m-2, which contribute up to 16% of that caused by BC, demonstrating the important influences of WSOC on the snow energy budget. Furthermore, the molecular composition and light-absorbing properties of BrC chromophores were unraveled by application of a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled to photodiode array (PDA) detector and HRMS. The chromophores were classified into five major types, i.e., (1) phenolic/lignin-derived compounds, (2) flavonoids, (3) nitroaromatics, (4) oxygenated aromatics, and (5) other chromophores. Identified chromophores account for ~23% – 64% of the total light absorption measured by the PDA detector in the wavelengths of 300 – 370 nm. In the representative U and R samples, oxygenated aromatics and nitroaromatics dominate the total absorbance. Phenolic/lignin-derived compounds are the most light-absorbing species in the S sample. Chromophores in two remote samples exhibit ultraviolet-visible features distinct from other samples, which are attributed to flavonoids. Identification of individual chromophores and quantitative analysis of their optical properties are helpful for elucidating the roles of BrC in snow radiative balance and photochemistry.
3D VISIBILITY ANALYSES USING BIM & GIS INTEGRATION
Authors: Corlu E. , Isikdag U.
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Visibility is a significant parameter for defining, developing, and evaluating space in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) Industry. Therefore, visibility is considered when designing visually comfortable buildings. Visibility is also a significant parameter in building appraisal. Therefore, in this study, visibility was examined through 3-dimensional (3D) isovists, which are thought to represent the human perception of vision. Visibility was examined regarding spatial openness and mathematically calculated “visual openness indexes” were developed for building valuation. The analysis area was selected in Istanbul, and the urban model was created by using Geographic Information System (GIS) data in Building Information Modelling (BIM) software. Due to, economic reasons affecting different stakeholders in building valuation, it is necessary to create an accurate urban model. For this reason, in the study, the process of obtaining current and accurate GIS data covering the world from open sources is preferred. Then, the process of correctly transferring GIS data to BIM is explained. A sufficient urban model for analysis is created. To calculate the openness indexes, the dormitory in the Golden Horn was modelled in BIM, and different rooms' openness indexes were calculated. Some solutions have been presented to ensure the modelling process with large file sizes and in the calculation of visibility factors. To allow different AEC stakeholders to calculate these indexes, modelling, and calculation is done within BIM. Eventually, it was calculated how much the building users cognitively perceive the openness of the view, and a mathematical comparison of the different rooms' openness indexes was provided.
DETECTION AND RECOGNITION OF TRAFFIC SIGNS FROM DATA COLLECTED BY THE MOBILE MAPPING SYSTEM
Authors: Gezgin H. , Alkan R. M.
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Autonomous vehicles and high-resolution maps are key elements of future transport systems. Detection and recognition of traffic signs is an important element for the safe driving of autonomous vehicles and the development of high-resolution maps. In this study, it is aimed to accurately detect and identify traffic signs based on the data collected by the mobile mapping system in order to ensure the safe movement of autonomous vehicles in traffic. A low-cost method is proposed with the ResNet-50 model for an autonomous vehicle to automatically detect and recognise traffic signs while moving on the road. As a result of the model training, 0.99 accuracy and 0.016 loss were obtained. The success of the method was first observed on images randomly selected from the dataset. Then, a real-time test was performed on a low-cost webcam. The tests showed that the handled method detects and identifies the traffic sign quickly and accurately.
ENHANCING URBAN PATHFINDING FOR PEDESTRIANS THROUGH FUSION OF MLS AND HMLS DATA
Authors: González-Collazo S. M. , Balado J. , Túñez-Alcalde R. M. , Garrido I. , Lorenzo H. , Díaz-Vilariño L.
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Pedestrian pathfinding is crucial for enhancing pedestrian mobility in urban environments. In this research a method to generate navigation graphs based on Mobile Laser Scanning (MLS) and Handheld Laser Scanning (HMLS) data fusion is developed. The input data comprises a 2-kilometer urban street network that integrates both MLS and HMLS data, effectively mitigating sidewalk occlusions caused mainly by parked vehicles. The proposed method encompasses the following steps: (1) Deep Learning semantic segmentation of urban ground elements and navigation-related obstacles, (2) Static vs. Dynamic object differentiation to replicate conditions of unobstructed passage. (3) Sidewalk enrichment with inclination, preservation status, and width. (4) Physical accessibility estimation between sidewalks and crosswalks incorporating curb information. And (5) navigation graph computation based on the enhanced sidewalk data, crosswalks, with accurate node location and connections. Routes were calculated within a Geographical Information System, and results ensure that pedestrians can navigate in urban environments with precision and efficiency.
REMOTE SENSING DATA APPLICATION TO MONITOR CARBON FARMING PRACTICES
Authors: Metrikaitytė Gudelė G. , Sužiedelytė Visockienė J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Carbon farming, a crucial strategy in mitigating climate change and promoting sustainable agriculture, requires precise monitoring to assess its effectiveness. This study explores the transformative potential of remote sensing data, with a focus on the fusion of Multispectral and Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite data, to enhance the precision and efficiency of carbon farming monitoring. Our research addresses the fundamental question: How can remote sensing data optimize the monitoring of carbon farming practices? This question drives our investigation into the practical applications of remote sensing technology in the context of carbon farming. In this article, the research is carried out in Lithuania, which is often covered with clouds or their shadows, so the application of various satellite images becomes even more meaningful. The study shows that the use of SAR image fusion for the identification of permanent meadows is appropriate and meaningful. The use of MSI image fusion for the identification of intermediate crops and stubble is also appropriate, but more research is needed that focuses on distinguishing these practices from other spectrally very similar practices.
DIGITAL ELEVATION MODEL CORRECTION IN URBAN AREAS USING EXTREME GRADIENT BOOSTING, LAND COVER AND TERRAIN PARAMETERS
Authors: Okolie C. , Mills J. , Adeleke A. , Smit J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract. The accuracy of digital elevation models (DEMs) in urban areas is influenced by numerous factors including land cover and terrain irregularities. Moreover, building artefacts in global DEMs cause artificial blocking of surface flow pathways. This compromises their quality and adequacy for hydrological and environmental modelling in urban landscapes where precise and accurate terrain information is needed. In this study, the extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) ensemble algorithm is adopted for enhancing the accuracy of two medium-resolution 30-metre DEMs over Cape Town, South Africa: Copernicus GLO-30 and ALOS World 3D (AW3D). XGBoost is a scalable, portable and versatile gradient boosting library that can solve many environmental modelling problems. The training datasets are comprised of eleven predictor variables including elevation, urban footprints, slope, aspect, surface roughness, topographic position index, terrain ruggedness index, terrain surface texture, vector roughness measure, forest cover and bare ground cover. The target variable (elevation error) was calculated with respect to highly accurate airborne LiDAR. After training and testing, the model was applied for correcting the DEMs at two implementation sites. The corrections achieved significant accuracy gains which are competitive with other proposed methods. There was a 46–53% reduction in the root mean square error (RMSE) of Copernicus DEM, and a 72–73% reduction in the RMSE of AW3D DEM. These results showcase the potential of gradient-boosted decision trees for enhancing the quality of global DEMs, especially in urban areas.
SPATIAL PREDICTION OF RECEIVED SIGNAL STRENGTH FOR CELLULAR COMMUNICATION USING SUPPORT VECTOR MACHINE AND K-NEAREST NEIGHBOURS REGRESSION
Authors: Perihanoglu G. M. , Karaman H.
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Signal strength maps are of great importance for cellular system providers in network planning and operation. Accurate prediction of signal strength is important for solving problems such as link quality. In this study, Received Signal Strength (RSS) prediction model is proposed for the 900 MHz band in the Van Yüzüncü Yıl University campus environment by using machine learning regression methods such as K- Nearest Neıghbours (KNN) and Support Vector Regression (SVR) together with Geographic Information Systems. For the training of this model, signal strength values taken from the RF Spectrum Analyser at different locations and distances were used. In addition, spatial data sets such as the digital elevation model, location of base stations and measurement stations, building heights and location, and land use/cover were used in the model. The effect of these data sets on RSS power is included in the model. The model aims to predict RSS accurately, visualize the estimated signal strength, and analyze the signal field strength coverage. Different kernels from the SVR model such as Polynomial, , and Sigmoid were tested. To increase the success of the model, appropriate parameter values were selected and configured according to SVR and KNN methods. For 900 MHz, the performances of SVR and KNN models were compared and the results of the models were verified using root mean squares (RMSE). Among the measured data, the lowest prediction is found in KNN Manhattan. According to the results of the simulation was observed that the SVR model created with spatial data performs better for Signal Strength. Finally, the lowest RMSE value (1.71 dB) was obtained from the Sigmoid kernel in the best signal strength estimation SVR model. The SVR model is recommended for Campus Area signal strength estimation.
SUITABLE LANDING SITE SELECTION FOR UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES USING AIRBORNE LASER SCANNING POINT CLOUD
Authors: Singh D. P. , Yadav M.
Published: March 2024

Abstract. In the context of autonomous landing for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), selecting a suitable landing site is crucial. This research presents a new method for automatically identifying safe landing sites based on point cloud data acquired through an airborne laser scanning (ALS) system. The proposed approach begins by detecting flat regions using principal component analysis (PCA) and region-growing algorithms. Subsequently, a terrain complexity assessment is conducted through plane fitting using an enhanced progressive sample consensus (PROSAC) algorithm. This assessment assists in identifying the most suitable landing site within a specified landing zone. The method's effectiveness is demonstrated through experiments conducted on two distinct natural terrains from the DALE dataset. The results show that the proposed approach can accurately classify landing zones and identify preferred sites that meet safety criteria. This study's findings underscore the proposed method's effectiveness and feasibility in improving the safety and reliability of autonomous UAV landings.
QUALITY ASSESSMENT FOR MULTI-RESOLUTION SEGMENTATION AND SEGMENT-ANYTHING MODEL USING WORLDVIEW-3 IMAGERY
Authors: Yilmaz E. O. , Kavzoglu T.
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Image segmentation, is of utmost importance in the disciplines of digital image processing, particularly remote sensing and computer vision, has seen an increasing demand for precise and efficient algorithms. This study focuses to conduct a comparative exploration of the segmentation capabilities of two sophisticated techniques namely, Multiresolution Segmentation (MRS) and Segment Anything Model (SAM), leveraging the high-resolution WorldView-3 (WV-3) satellite image. MRS adopts a hierarchical methodology, segmenting an image into various scales while retaining a profound understanding of its structure. Conversely, SAM employs a deep learning algorithm, prioritizing segment creation based on conceptual pixel similarity, irrespective of spatial adjacency. The WV-3 image, featuring diverse land cover elements like agricultural parcels, industrial structures, roads, red roofs, single trees, and water bodies, serves as the basis for assessing segmentation quality. Both methods are applied to the image, and their outcomes are individually evaluated against manually generated polygonal land use/cover objects. Segmentation quality metrics are employed for assessment. Results reveal MRS effectively preserves fine details and entity delineation, while SAM excels in capturing contextually similar regions. MRS outperforms SAM with a negligible discrepancy, yet SAM demonstrates superiority in the red roof object, achieving an Intersection over Union (IoU) value of 0.70 compared to MRS’s 0.49. MRS tends to generate numerous segments for an item, while SAM produces only one segment. Nevertheless, it is important to recognise that both algorithms have specific constraints in particular scenarios, such as excessive segmentation in areas with abundant texture or inadequate segmentation in areas with slight changes.
BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF THE GREATEST NUCLEAR DISASTERS: WHAT IS KNOWN SO FAR AND WHAT ARE THE PROSPECTS?
Authors: Batur M. , Alkan R. M.
Published: March 2024

Abstract. The high potential of nuclear power to combat climate change and support sustainable development plays a critical role in achieving the goal of the Paris Agreement. Moreover, with the ever-increasing demand for electricity, it is essential to consider nuclear power as a reliable source of energy. However, it should be noted that although the risk of a radiological accident is small, it always exists, and therefore it is crucial to have a complete understanding of the management of nuclear power. Herein, we present a statistical review of nuclear accident research at Chernobyl and Fukushima Nuclear Power Plants using bibliometric analysis to identify key patterns in scientific results and current issues in accident research. More than 10,000 articles have been collected from the SCOPUS database covering the periods 1986–2022 and 2011–2022 on Chernobyl and Fukushima, respectively. The results were obtained from two perspectives: first, we identified stages through which pre- and post-accident researches have evolved, and then we analysed the spatial correlation between energy-economic performance and scientific literature for the leading productive countries. From the analysis of research trends, it was found that the number of articles increased sharply immediately after the accident and slightly decreased over time. Among the most attractive subject categories in terms of the largest number of publications and received citations were environmental sciences, medicine and energy policy. The productive country ranking was mostly topped by the country in which the accident occurred. Spatial statistical analysis revealed a strong correlation between the scientific productivity and energy-economic performance of the leading countries.
EVALUATING THE QUALITY OF DIGITAL DATASETS IN TERMS OF AVIATION SAFETY DERIVED FROM STEREO SATELLITE IMAGERY IN SARAWAK, MALAYSIA'S AIRPORTS
Authors: Bayburt S. , Erol D. , Bayır Ü. , Emang R. , Seong L. B. , Hassan M. I. , Abdul Rahman A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract. High-resolution satellite imagery offers new possibilities in geospatial data acquisition, particularly in 3D city modeling, topographic mapping, and aviation safety. This study evaluates the quality of digital datasets generated from satellite imagery for five airports in Sarawak, as part of the eTOD (Electronic Terrain and Obstacle Data) project conducted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM). The airports under examination include Miri Airport (WBGR), Bintulu Airport (WBGB), Mukah Airport (WBGK), Sibu Airport (WBGS), and Kuching Airport (WBGG). A comprehensive assessment was conducted to evaluate accuracy and reliability by combining stereo satellite imagery with on-site validation. The study yielded digital datasets of exceptionally high accuracy and reliability. The overall error rate remained below 3%, with a mean error value of 0.96 meters across all five airports. Notably, it has been observed that using satellite images as the only data source creates difficulties in detecting Power Transmission Lines and Poles that require precise detection. A multifaceted approach was adopted to increase the detection accuracy, involving site verification measurements, incorporation of external source data (Sarawak Energy Company), and manual interpretation. In conclusion, this study underscores the significant potential of very high-resolution satellite imagery for creating precise and reliable digital datasets for aviation safety. Additionally, the study's emphasis on detecting Power Transmission Lines highlights the need for advanced methods to improve accuracy in challenging scenarios. These findings not only contribute to enhancing aviation safety but also provide valuable insights into the utilization of satellite imagery for similar applications worldwide.
Anthropometry of Farm Workers of Kashmir Region of India for Equipment Design
Authors: Jagvir Dixit  , Deldan Namgial
Published: March 2024

Anthropometric data (25 body dimensions, relevant to design of farm machinery) of 610 farm workers was collected from Kashmir region of India. The comparison between the Kashmir region data and different regions of India and six foreign countries is presented. There were significant differences in weight, stature and other body dimensions between the populations. Kashmiri women were taller by 31 mm as compared to south Indian female workers, but had differences in hand length. No differences existed between stature eye height, hand length and inside grip diameter among females from Kashmir and North-eastern regions. Kashmiri women were heavier and fatter as compared to other selected regions of the country. Indian men were shorter by 75 mm as compared to Americans. The muscular strength (elbow flexion) of Indian workers was lower (241 N) as compared to Americans (270.7 N). Similarly, hand grip strength of Indian workers was lower (301.8 N) than Americans (398 N). Application of data in design of agricultural equipment is demonstrated.