bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal Water Prospection with UAV, Low-Cost Sensors and GIS. Application to the Case of La Hermida
Authors: Sedano-Cibrián Javier , Pérez-Álvarez Rubén , de Luis-Ruiz Julio Manuel , Pereda-García Raúl , Salas-Menocal Benito Ramiro
Published: September 2022

The geothermal resource is one of the great sources of energy on the planet. The conventional prospecting of this type of energy is a slow process that requires a great amount of time and significant investments. Nowadays, geophysical techniques have experienced an important evolution due to the irruption of UAVs, which combined with infrared sensors can provide great contributions in this field. The novelty of this technology involves the lack of tested methodologies for their implementation in this type of activities. The research developed is focused on the proposal of a methodology for the exploration of hydrothermal resources in an easy, economic, and rapid way. The combination of photogrammetry techniques with visual and thermal images taken with UAVs allows the generation of temperature maps or thermal orthomosaics, which analyzed with GIS tools permit the quasi-automatic identification of zones of potential geothermal interest along rivers or lakes. The proposed methodology has been applied to a case study in La Hermida (Cantabria, Spain), where it has allowed the identification of an effluent with temperatures close to 40 °C, according to the verification measurements performed on the geothermal interest area. These results allow validation of the potential of the method, which is strongly influenced by the particular characteristics of the study area.
Multiclass Classification of Metrologically Resourceful Tripartite Quantum States with Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Rizvi Syed Muhammad Abuzar , Asif Naema , Ulum Muhammad Shohibul , Duong Trung Q. , Shin Hyundong
Published: September 2022

Quantum entanglement is a unique phenomenon of quantum mechanics, which has no classical counterpart and gives quantum systems their advantage in computing, communication, sensing, and metrology. In quantum sensing and metrology, utilizing an entangled probe state enhances the achievable precision more than its classical counterpart. Noise in the probe state preparation step can cause the system to output unentangled states, which might not be resourceful. Hence, an effective method for the detection and classification of tripartite entanglement is required at that step. However, current mathematical methods cannot robustly classify multiclass entanglement in tripartite quantum systems, especially in the case of mixed states. In this paper, we explore the utility of artificial neural networks for classifying the entanglement of tripartite quantum states into fully separable, biseparable, and fully entangled states. We employed Bell’s inequality for the dataset of tripartite quantum states and train the deep neural network for multiclass classification. This entanglement classification method is computationally efficient due to using a small number of measurements. At the same time, it also maintains generalization by covering a large Hilbert space of tripartite quantum states.
Blockchain Empowered Federated Learning Ecosystem for Securing Consumer IoT Features Analysis
Authors: Alghamdi Abdullah , Zhu Jiang , Yin Guocai , Shorfuzzaman Mohammad , Alsufyani Nawal , Alyami Sultan , Biswas Sujit
Published: September 2022

Resource constraint Consumer Internet of Things (CIoT) is controlled through gateway devices (e.g., smartphones, computers, etc.) that are connected to Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) servers or cloud regulated by a third party. Recently Machine Learning (ML) has been widely used in automation, consumer behavior analysis, device quality upgradation, etc. Typical ML predicts by analyzing customers’ raw data in a centralized system which raises the security and privacy issues such as data leakage, privacy violation, single point of failure, etc. To overcome the problems, Federated Learning (FL) developed an initial solution to ensure services without sharing personal data. In FL, a centralized aggregator collaborates and makes an average for a global model used for the next round of training. However, the centralized aggregator raised the same issues, such as a single point of control leaking the updated model and interrupting the entire process. Additionally, research claims data can be retrieved from model parameters. Beyond that, since the Gateway (GW) device has full access to the raw data, it can also threaten the entire ecosystem. This research contributes a blockchain-controlled, edge intelligence federated learning framework for a distributed learning platform for CIoT. The federated learning platform allows collaborative learning with users’ shared data, and the blockchain network replaces the centralized aggregator and ensures secure participation of gateway devices in the ecosystem. Furthermore, blockchain is trustless, immutable, and anonymous, encouraging CIoT end users to participate. We evaluated the framework and federated learning outcomes using the well-known Stanford Cars dataset. Experimental results prove the effectiveness of the proposed framework.
Vector Auto-Regression-Based False Data Injection Attack Detection Method in Edge Computing Environment
Authors: Chen Yi , Hayawi Kadhim , Zhao Qian , Mou Junjie , Yang Ling , Tang Jie , Li Qing , Wen Hong
Published: September 2022

With the wide application of advanced communication and information technology, false data injection attack (FDIA) has become one of the significant potential threats to the security of smart grid. Malicious attack detection is the primary task of defense. Therefore, this paper proposes a method of FDIA detection based on vector auto-regression (VAR), aiming to improve safe operation and reliable power supply in smart grid applications. The proposed method is characterized by incorporating with VAR model and measurement residual analysis based on infinite norm and 2-norm to achieve the FDIA detection under the edge computing architecture, where the VAR model is used to make a short-term prediction of FDIA, and the infinite norm and 2-norm are utilized to generate the classification detector. To assess the performance of the proposed method, we conducted experiments by the IEEE 14-bus system power grid model. The experimental results demonstrate that the method based on VAR model has a better detection of FDIA compared to the method based on auto-regressive (AR) model.
Evaluating Autonomous Urban Perception and Planning in a 1/10th Scale MiniCity
Authors: Buckman Noam , Hansen Alex , Karaman Sertac , Rus Daniela
Published: September 2022

We present the MiniCity, a multi-vehicle evaluation platform for testing perception hardware and software for autonomous vehicles. The MiniCity is a 1/10th scale city consisting of realistic urban scenery, intersections, and multiple fully autonomous 1/10th scale vehicles with state-of-the-art sensors and algorithms. The MiniCity is used to evaluate and test perception algorithms both upstream and downstream in the autonomy stack, in urban driving scenarios such as occluded intersections and avoiding multiple vehicles. We demonstrate the MiniCity’s ability to evaluate different sensor and algorithm configurations for perception tasks such as object detection and localization. For both tasks, the MiniCity platform is used to evaluate the task itself (accuracy in estimating obstacle pose and ego pose in the map) as well as the downstream performance in collision avoidance and lane following, respectively.
A Robust Power Allocation Algorithm for Cognitive Radio Networks Based on Hybrid PSO
Authors: Zhao Lu , Zhou Mingyue
Published: September 2022

The use of a cognitive radio power allocation algorithm is an effective method to improve spectral utilization. However, there are three problems with traditional cognitive radio power allocation algorithms: (1) based on the ideal channel model analysis, channel fluctuation is not considered; (2) they do not consider fairness among cognitive users; and (3) some algorithms are complex and locating the optimal power allocation scheme is not an easy task. For the above problems, this study establishes a robust model which adds the cognitive user transmission rate variance constraint to solve the maximum channel capacity time power allocation scheme by considering the worst-case channel transmission model, and finally solves this complex non-convex optimization problem by using the hybrid particle swarm algorithm. Simulation results show that the algorithm has good robustness, improves the fairness among the cognitive users, makes full use of the channel resources under the constraints, and has a simple algorithm, fast convergence, and good optimization results.
Opportunistic Maintenance Strategy for Complex Equipment with a Genetic Algorithm Considering Failure Dependence: A Two-Dimensional Warranty Perspective
Authors: Dong Enzhi , Gao Tielu , Cheng Zhonghua , Wang Rongcai , Bai Yongsheng
Published: September 2022

Complex two-dimensional warranty equipment is usually composed of many multi-component systems, which include several key components. During the warranty period, conducting maintenance according to the preventive maintenance plan of each component will increase the warranty costs. Opportunistic maintenance is an effective approach to combine the preventive maintenance of each individual component, which can reduce the warranty cost and improve the system availability. This study explored the optimal opportunistic maintenance scheme of multi-component systems. Firstly, the failure rate model and reliability evaluation model of the multi-component system considering failure dependence were established. Secondly, the preventive maintenance plan of each individual component was determined, with the goal of obtaining the lowest warranty cost per unit time in the component life cycle. Thirdly, the preventive maintenance work of each individual component was combined, and the two-dimensional warranty cost model of the multi-component system was established according to the reliability threshold when performing opportunistic maintenance. In the experimental verification and result analysis, the genetic algorithm was used to find the optimal opportunistic maintenance scheme for the power transmission device. The comparative analysis results show that the opportunistic maintenance scheme reduced the warranty cost by 5.5% and improved the availability by 10%, which fully verified the effectiveness of the opportunistic maintenance strategy.
Machine-Learning-Inspired Workflow for Camera Calibration
Authors: Pak Alexey , Reichel Steffen , Burke Jan
Published: September 2022

The performance of modern digital cameras approaches physical limits and enables high-precision measurements in optical metrology and in computer vision. All camera-assisted geometrical measurements are fundamentally limited by the quality of camera calibration. Unfortunately, this procedure is often effectively considered a nuisance: calibration data are collected in a non-systematic way and lack quality specifications; imaging models are selected in an ad hoc fashion without proper justification; and calibration results are evaluated, interpreted, and reported inconsistently. We outline an (arguably more) systematic and metrologically sound approach to calibrating cameras and characterizing the calibration outcomes that is inspired by typical machine learning workflows and practical requirements of camera-based measurements. Combining standard calibration tools and the technique of active targets with phase-shifted cosine patterns, we demonstrate that the imaging geometry of a typical industrial camera can be characterized with sub-mm uncertainty up to distances of a few meters even with simple parametric models, while the quality of data and resulting parameters can be known and controlled at all stages.
Rayleigh-Based Distributed Optical Fiber Sensing
Authors: Palmieri Luca , Schenato Luca , Santagiustina Marco , Galtarossa Andrea
Published: September 2022

Distributed optical fiber sensing is a unique technology that offers unprecedented advantages and performance, especially in those experimental fields where requirements such as high spatial resolution, the large spatial extension of the monitored area, and the harshness of the environment limit the applicability of standard sensors. In this paper, we focus on one of the scattering mechanisms, which take place in fibers, upon which distributed sensing may rely, i.e., the Rayleigh scattering. One of the main advantages of Rayleigh scattering is its higher efficiency, which leads to higher SNR in the measurement; this enables measurements on long ranges, higher spatial resolution, and, most importantly, relatively high measurement rates. The first part of the paper describes a comprehensive theoretical model of Rayleigh scattering, accounting for both multimode propagation and double scattering. The second part reviews the main application of this class of sensors.
Molecularly-Imprinted SERS: A Potential Method for Bioanalysis
Authors: Wisnuwardhani Hilda Aprilia , Ibrahim Slamet , Mukti Rino R. , Damayanti Sophi
Published: September 2022

The most challenging step in developing bioanalytical methods is finding the best sample preparation method. The matrix interference effect of biological sample become a reason of that. Molecularly imprinted SERS become a potential analytical method to be developed to answer this challenge. In this article, we review recent progress in MIP SERS application particularly in bioanalysis. Begin with the explanation about molecular imprinting technique and component, SERS principle, the combination of MIP SERS, and follow by various application of MIP SERS for analysis. Finally, the conclusion and future perspective were also discussed.
The Impact of Low-Carbon Pilot City Policy on Corporate Green Technology Innovation in a Sustainable Development Context—Evidence from Chinese Listed Companies
Authors: Wang Jun , Liu Zhuofei , Shi Long , Tan Jinghua
Published: September 2022

The low-carbon pilot city policy is an important initiative to explore the path of a win-win situation for both the economy and the environment. Since 2010, China has established 87 low-carbon pilot cities. This policy implementation aims to encourage green technology innovation among listed companies, thereby achieving sustainable corporate growth through the promotion of energy efficiency and renewable energy. This paper aims to unveil the relationship between low-carbon pilot city policies and green technology innovation. This paper explores the impact of policy implementation based on patent data of Chinese listed companies from 2007 to 2019. Empirical results show that the policy can promote green technology innovation among listed companies in the pilot cities. This finding still holds in the parallel trend test and the PSM-Multi-period DID test. Second, the policy has a greater effect on the green-technology innovation of non-state enterprises and can promote more green technology innovation activities of enterprises in the eastern region compared with other areas. Furthermore, in terms of different stock sectors, the low-carbon pilot city policy can significantly promote GEM-affiliated enterprises’ green technology innovation activities. Finally, listed companies with a high degree of digital transformation are more active in green technology innovation in the context of low-carbon pilot city policy.
Landscape Archaeology of Southern Mesopotamia: Identifying Features in the Dried Marshes
Authors: Jotheri Jaafar , Feadha Malath , Al-Janabi Jassim , Alabdan Raheem
Published: September 2022

The landscape of the Mesopotamian floodplain is mainly structured by channel processes, including the formation of levees, meanders, scrollbars, oxbow lakes, crevasse splays, distributary channels, inter-distributary bays, and marshes. Moreover, several human-made features also form and shape this landscape, such as canals, roads, trenches, farms, and settlement sites ranging in size from villages to cities. A significant part of the Mesopotamian floodplain is covered by marshes, especially the southern region. These marshlands have thrived for thousands of years and are well known for their sustainable biodiversity and ecosystem. However, after the deliberate draining of the marshes in the 1990s, the areas have become dry and only small areas of shallow water and narrow strips of vegetation remain. Several kinds of archaeological landscape features have appeared on the surface and can be clearly identified in both ground surveys and with the use of remote sensing tools. This paper aims to determine the type and nature of the preserved archaeological features that appear in the landscape of the dried marshes and whether they are different from other features elsewhere in the Mesopotamian floodplain. An intensive ground survey was carried out in a selected area of the dried marshland, resulting in the identification of six types of archaeological features: settlement sites, rivers, canals, farms, grooves, and roads (hollow ways). These features used to be covered by bodies of deep water and dense zones of vegetation (reeds and papyrus).
Sustainable Production of Biodiesel from Novel and Non-Edible Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Seed Oil from Green and Recyclable Potassium Hydroxide Activated Ailanthus Cake and Cadmium Sulfide Catalyst
Authors: Jabeen Munazza , Munir Mamoona , Abbas Muhammad Mujtaba , Ahmad Mushtaq , Waseem Amir , Saeed Muhammad , Kalam Md Abul , Zafar Muhammad , Sultana Shazia , Mohamed Abdullah , Chaudhry Bisha
Published: September 2022

Heterogeneous catalyst prepared from Ailanthus altissima oil cake along with cadmium sulphide catalyst proved to be an efficient, cost-effective and sustainable source of biodiesel synthesis from Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) seed oil. Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) is a non-edible wild plant having significant oil content of 40%, being an ideal low cost and sustainable source of biodiesel production. After extraction of oil from the seeds, the remaining Ailanthus cake was treated through different techniques to be used as a novel heterogeneous catalyst. Free fatty acid content of the seeds was measured as 0.7%, which is very reasonable for effective trans-esterification process. The potassium hydroxide (KOH)-activated Ailanthus cake (KAC), calcined Ailanthus cake (CAC) and cadmium sulphide nanoparticles (CdS) were characterised with different techniques such as SEM at different magnifications, XRD and EDX. These catalysts were effectively utilised for biodiesel production owing to promising reusability, cost-effective and eco-friendly behaviour. For trans-esterification of Ailanthus altissima oil (AAO), the operating conditions on which maximum biodiesel yield obtained were 3:1 methanol to oil molar ratio, 0.5 wt.% catalyst concentration, 90 min reaction time, 60 °C and 600 rpm. The fuel properties of biodiesel obtained from Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) were also determined and analysed in detail. These properties, such as viscosity, density, pour point and cloud point, fall within the limits set by international standards of biodiesel.
Fatigue Properties and Damage Characteristics of Polyurethane Mixtures under a Stress Control Mode
Authors: Sun Min , Qu Guangzhen , Geng Litao , Hou Derui , Jing Shuo
Published: September 2022

A polyurethane mixture (PUM) is an energy-saving and emission-reducing pavement material with excellent temperature stability; however, the fatigue properties and fatigue damage models of PUM still require further research. Therefore, four-point bending static load tests, fatigue tests, and digital speckle correlation method (DSCM) tests with different load levels of PUM and styrene butadiene styrene (SBS)-modified asphalt mixture (SMA) were carried out. The fatigue life, stiffness, midspan deflection, and maximum tensile strain were obtained and compared. The fatigue damage factor calculation method of PUM based on stiffness degradation was proposed, and the fatigue damage function of PUM at different load levels was fitted. The results show that the fatigue life of PUM was much larger than that of SMA, and the static loading failure and fatigue failure modes of PUM were both brittle. The fatigue damage of PUM exhibits an obvious three-stage damage law: the rapid development stage (accounting for about 10–20% of the fatigue life), the deformation stability expansion stage (accounting for about 70–80% of the fatigue life), and the instability development stage (accounting for about 10–20% of the fatigue life). The fatigue damage factors (DB) were calculated based on stiffness, according to DB=EI0−EInrEI0−EINr, and the fatigue damage functions of PUM were fitted based on the stiffness degradation, according to fnN=1−1−(n/N)a(1−n/N)b. The fatigue damage fitting curves have good correlation with the calculation results of the damage factor based on test data, which can predict the stiffness degradation of PUM at different load levels. The results can help further the understanding of the fatigue characteristics and damage mechanism of PUM, which will provide theoretical support for the application of PUM in pavement structures.
Research on the Evolution of the Economic Spatial Pattern of Urban Agglomeration and Its Influencing Factors, Evidence from the Chengdu-Chongqing Urban Agglomeration of China
Authors: Ding Rui , Fu Jun , Zhang Yiling , Zhang Ting , Yin Jian , Du Yiming , Zhou Tao , Du Linyu
Published: September 2022

To investigate the spatial evolution process of economic development in the urban agglomeration and its influencing factors, the network construction method, modified gravity model, geographic detector and Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) model are used to analyze the intensity of urban association; then, the evolution of economic, spatial pattern and its influencing factors are further discussed, and the Chengdu-Chongqing urban agglomeration of China from 2005 to 2020 is studied as an example. The results show that: (1) the economically developed zones of the Chengdu-Chongqing urban agglomeration mainly concentrated in the core cities of Chengdu and the central city of Chongqing, and the region shows an uneven spatial pattern of economic development distribution. (2) The share of economic linkages with the central city of Chengdu and Chongqing as the twin cities is significant, the intensity of Chengdu and its neighboring cities is gradually decreasing, while the central city of Chongqing has increased, but it still has an insufficient influence on the peripheral areas. (3) The intensities and directions of the factors influencing economic development in the Chengdu-Chongqing urban agglomeration are different. The total output value of the secondary industry, total social fixed asset investment, the number of beds in health institutions, and road freight turnover are significant factors with consistently strong explanatory ability for economic development. The promotion effect of these four significant factors on economic development is mainly concentrated in the eastern and western regions of Chengdu-Chongqing urban agglomeration, while the inhibiting effect is mainly on the cities in the south and north. Based on this study, relevant recommendations are made to promote the coordinated development of the Chengdu-Chongqing urban agglomeration.
The Discourse of Forest Cover in Vietnam and Its Policy Implications
Authors: Dang Thi Kim Phung
Published: September 2022

As the world’s largest ecosystem, forests affect the location, layout, and functionality of human populations worldwide. Despite environmental efforts, forests are being taken down. As socioeconomic issues promote deforestation, sustainable development is a worldwide answer. However, there is still a shortage of information about the manifestation and interconnection of sustainability aspects in a country’s forestry and their impact on policy making in developing nations. To address this knowledge gap, this study analyzes the preeminent discourse of forest cover in Vietnam forestry and determines how well it incorporates the three pillars of sustainable development. The various pieces of pertinent material (forestry regulations, reports, articles, statements by government officials and National Assembly representatives in the media, etc.) were analyzed using discourse analysis and thematic analysis. Overall, the findings show that the discourse has evolved through four themes: intercropped supporting trees, multi-purposed trees, replacing afforestation and change from forest cover to tree cover. These themes all exclude ecosystems that must exist beneath forest cover, which is frequently disrupted by the clear cut of fast-growing trees and industrial crops. The institutionalization of the discourse is facilitating legal deforestation by converting natural forest into other land uses, in particular infrastructure with replacing afforestation. The economic coalition, which strategically includes livelihood and social development in their storylines to legitimize forest conversion to other land uses, is winning the discursive struggle for hegemony. The paper concludes with some recommendations to improve Vietnam’s forestry policy, making for long-term sustainable development.
Natural Resource Funds: Their Objectives and Effectiveness
Authors: Taguchi Hiroyuki , Ganbayar Javkhlan
Published: September 2022

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of natural resource funds in resource-rich countries according to funds’ objectives via an econometric method using panel data (ordinary least squares estimator with fixed-effect model and Poisson pseudo-maximum likelihood estimator). The main contribution of this study is demonstrating fund-specific evaluation. To this end, it classifies funds into three types based on their objectives—stabilization, investment, and savings funds—and evaluates the effectiveness of each fund type by each criterion corresponding to an objective. The econometric estimations identify the effectiveness of stabilization funds in reducing the volatility of government expenditure and the primary balance, as well as the effectiveness of investment funds in increasing investment rates. They also confirm the facilitation of funds’ effectiveness under a combination of funds’ operations and high governance. The econometric analysis also shows that the operation of stabilization funds reduces the volatility of government expenditure by 13.6%, and their operation under high governance reduces it by 33.2%; meanwhile, the operation of investment funds increases the investment rate by 9.8%, and their operation with high governance raises it by 46.8%. Their practical implications are that the fiscal smoothing under stabilization funds provides a counter-cyclical buffer to mitigate commodity price shocks, thereby contributing to macroeconomic stabilization, and that the increase in investment rates under investment funds alleviates the Dutch disease effect, thereby sustaining economic growth.
Comparison of Rubber Asphalt with Polymer Asphalt under Long-Term Aging Conditions in Michigan
Authors: Jin Dongzhao , Boateng Kwadwo Ampadu , Chen Siyu , Xin Kai , You Zhanping
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study is to compare the long-term aging performance of dry-processed rubber-modified asphalt mixture with styrene–butadiene–styrene polymer-modified asphalt mixture on heavy traffic volume roads in the wet-freeze environment of Michigan. The rutting performance was evaluated using the Hamburg wheel track device. The disc-shaped compact tension test was used to assess the fracture energy. The dynamic modulus experiment was used to estimate the load and displacement relationship. The asphalt binder properties were evaluated using multiple stress creep recovery and the linear amplitude sweep test. The pavement distresses were evaluated using the pavement mechanistic–empirical design. All three types of asphalt mixture show excellent rutting resistance after long-term aging conditions, while the fracture energy of the rubber mix is 17.1% to 30.5% higher than that of the control mix and 6.8% to 9.1% higher than that of the polymer mix. The rubber and polymer incorporated with the asphalt binder improved the resistance to permanent deformation and improved the fatigue life of the asphalt binder. In summary, the rubberized asphalt technology using the dry process shows better cracking resistance and fatigue life. Therefore, rubberized asphalt using the dry process will exhibit adequate performance when used for high-volume roads in the wet-freeze environment of Michigan.
The Efficiency of Indonesian Commercial Banks: Does the Banking Industry Competition Matter?
Authors: Sari Sajida , Ajija Shochrul Rohmatul , Wasiaturrahma Wasiaturrahma , Ahmad Raja Adzrin Raja
Published: September 2022

This study examines the effect of banking industry competition on the efficiency of commercial banks in Indonesia from 2010 to 2019. First, using data envelopment analysis (DEA), the results showed that the commercial banks in Indonesia are moderately efficient. Second, this study uses H-statistics, obtained through the Panzar–Rosse model, to measure the level of competition. The results showed that the banking industry competition in Indonesia is a monopolistic market. In addition, this study also analysed other factors affecting bank efficiency, namely non-performing loans (NPL), loan to deposit ratio (LDR), capital adequacy ratio (CAR), bank size, and economic growth. This study used the Tobit estimation method to analyse the effect of competition and other variables. The results showed that tighter competition in the banking industry reduces the commercial banks’ efficiency. The results of this study support the competition-inefficiency hypothesis. Other variables such as CAR, LDR, and economic growth had a significant effect on bank efficiency. Meanwhile, the NPL variable and bank size had no significant effect.
Determinants of Intention to Consume Dibiterie Meat towards the Risks of Non-Communicable Diseases in the Dakar Region, Senegal
Authors: Orou Seko Malik , Laré Nibangue , Ossebi Walter , Fokou Gilbert , Dao Daouda , Bonfoh Bassirou
Published: September 2022

The general opinion and current scientific evidence highlight the link between red meat consumption and the development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). We explored the determinants of the intention to consume red meat in relation to the risks of developing NCDs in Senegal with a special focus on popular “dibiterie” meat (braised meat) consumed in Dakar, Senegal. Building on the theory of planned behaviour as a theoretical framework, we used a structured questionnaire to collect data on the knowledge of consumers regarding the risk of NCDs from consuming meat. The survey involved 478 people randomly selected from households in the Dakar region. Data collected was analysed by performing the calculation of the dibiterie meat quantities consumed and frequencies of consumption, analyses of the principal components, binary logistic regression, and multiple hierarchical regression. Results show that dibiterie meat is mainly a dietary supplement for the population. The convenience, the social pressure, and quality indicators such as producer expertise and health perceived a link between meat consumption and NCDs; gender and age predicted the intention to consume dibiterie meat in the households of the Dakar region. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development of incentive-based interventions aiming to promote a balanced diet and healthy eating habits. Nutrition education and the use of social media have been raised as important in risky meat consumption behaviour change.
A Measurement of the Environmental Literacy of Nursing Students for a Sustainable Environment
Authors: Örs Mukaddes
Published: September 2022

Environmentally literate citizenship is a lifelong learning process that aims to develop citizens who possess the knowledge, skills, and commitment to make responsible decisions that will affect the quality of the environment. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the environmental literacy levels of nursing students in terms of a sustainable environment by considering the dimensions of environmental literacy. This study was also aimed at understanding the correlation between the dimensions of environmental literacy and revealing the factors affecting the dimensions of environmental literacy. This research was designed as a descriptive study using a survey model. A total of 278 nursing students participated in this research. It was revealed that the students obtained a high score for the use and concern dimensions of environmental literacy, and their attitudes towards the environment were moderate; however, the nursing students had the lowest scores for the environmental knowledge component, which indicates that they need support in improving their environmental knowledge. There were also statistically significant differences in the dimensions of environmental literacy based on gender and whether the students had taken environment-related courses. All the dimensions of environmental literacy were found to be positively correlated with each other, ranging from low to moderate correlations.
Organizational Performance Management and the ‘Sustainability’ of the Performance Evaluation System: A View Guided by the Integrative Review Perspective
Authors: Ensslin Sandra Rolim , Rodrigues Kassia Tonheiro , Yoshiura Luiz Junior Maemura , da Silva Jessica Carvalho , Longaray André Andrade
Published: September 2022

Objective: This paper aims to explore the scientific literature in order to show how the process of institutionalizing (incorporating) the ‘sustainability’ of the performance evaluation system (PES) contributes to organizational performance management (OPM). Methodology: An integrative review was carried out with the support of the ProKnow-C intervention instrument to select 39 articles that formed part of the bibliographic portfolio (BP). The PB analysis was conducted through the evolution of the performance evaluation (PE) area; the elaboration of the concept of OPM, which guided this research; and the development of a ‘lens’ using the concept of the ‘sustainability’ of the PES, from which it was possible to identify its essential aspects and use them as a basis for exploration. With this, it was feasible to demonstrate the relationship of the ‘lens’ with the guiding concept that allowed the elaboration of a taxonomy. Findings: In terms of the results, the evolution of a mature theme in the literature (PE) from a new perspective and with an emphasis on the integration of elements related to management is presented, allowing for the identification that the management elements are incipient and little developed in the literature. The elaboration of a taxonomy made it possible to verify that ‘learning’ is the aspect of sustainability that most contributes to OPM, that the ‘holistic/integrated vision’ element encompasses all aspects that determine the sustainability of the PES, and that the ‘use of information’ is the common component and link between the sustainability of PES and OPM in promoting organizational learning, supporting communication and providing it with a foundation for decision-making. Originality: Gaps were identified in the literature that led to the elaboration of a future research agenda for questions related to the importance of culture in encouraging the continuous process of performance management, the relationship of organizational learning with the context and strategic alignment, and the contribution of the human factor and culture to the continuous improvement of organizational performance. Thus, this research offers a new guiding perspective for OPM.
Strategy Design and Performance Analysis of an Electromechanical Flywheel Hybrid Scheme for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Sun Binbin , Gu Tianqi , Xie Mengxue , Wang Pengwei , Gao Song , Zhang Xi
Published: September 2022

Energy management strategies are one of the key factors affecting the working efficiency of electric vehicle energy power systems. At present, electric vehicles will develop real-time and efficient energy management strategies according to the topology of on-board energy power system to improve the driving performance of vehicles. In this paper, a new electromechanical flywheel hybrid system is studied. Firstly, the characteristics of the topological scheme of the electromechanical flywheel hybrid system are analyzed, and the working modes are designed. Secondly, in order to improve the efficiency of vehicles’ energy utilization and ensure the real-time performance of the management strategy, an energy management strategy based on fuzzy rules is designed with the flywheel’s state of energy (SOE) as the key reference parameter. Then, considering the directional stability in the braking process, the braking force distribution strategy between the front axle and the rear axle is designed. In order to improve the braking energy recovery efficiency, the secondary distribution strategy consisting of a mechanical braking force and regenerative braking force on the front and rear axles is designed. Finally, the bench test of a electromechanical flywheel hybrid system is carried out. Experiments show that compared with the original dual-motor four-wheel drive scheme, the electromechanical flywheel hybrid four-wheel drive system scheme developed in this paper can reduce the current variation range of lithium batteries by 43.16%, increase the average efficiency by 1.04%, and increase the braking energy recovery rate by 40.61% under the Japan urban cycle conditions. In addition, taking advantage of the energy and power regulation advantages of the electromechanical flywheel device, the power consumption of the lithium battery is reduced by 1.82% under cycling conditions.
Chlorination Treatment for Gold Extraction from Refractory Gold-Copper-Arsenic-Bearing Concentrates
Authors: Dosmukhamedov Nurlan , Kaplan Valery , Zholdasbay Erzhan , Argyn Aidar , Kuldeyev Erzhan , Koishina Gulzada , Tazhiev Yeleussiz
Published: September 2022

New experimental results have been obtained on the behavior of arsenic and other associated metals (Re and others) under conditions of oxidative and reductive sintering. It has been established that the extraction of arsenic strongly depends on the process temperature during oxidative sintering. The extraction of arsenic into dust media at 873 K is 50% and rhenium is 88–90%. The effect of excess air on the extraction of arsenic and rhenium into dust was studied: the higher the excess air coefficient, the more complete the extraction of arsenic and rhenium into the dust. The obtained data indicate that achieving a high level of arsenic extraction from the initial product is not possible during oxidative sintering. The best arsenic removal results were reached under the conditions of reductive sintering of initial material by natural gas. The extraction of arsenic into dust at 823 K was 88%, and at 1373 K arsenic is almost completely converted into dust. Obtained new experimental results have a fundamental importance for the selection and organization of a comprehensive technology for the processing complex in composition refractory gold-copper-arsenic-bearing products.
Research on Convergence Media Consensus Mechanism Based on Blockchain
Authors: Hu Hongbin , Wang Yongbin
Published: September 2022

In recent years, the media industry has achieved rapid development and experienced three development stages from traditional media to new media and then to the current convergence media. Convergence media has brought about great changes in content production, communication mechanism, operation and maintenance management, but also brought about problems such as declining credibility of the industry, difficulty in confirming content rights, difficulty in protecting user privacy, etc. Research on convergence media based on blockchain can make use of the characteristics of blockchain to design or optimize the media industry. In this paper, we introduced the development of convergence media, blockchain and consensus mechanism, then we described a sustainable convergence media ecology based on blockchain. Furthermore, we designed and implemented a consensus mechanism named proof of efficiency (PoE). After analysis, PoE can provide high security and resist 51% resource attack, sybil attack, etc. The experimental results show that PoE has the characteristics of decentralization, strong consistency, low energy consumption, short average block generation time, high throughput and short block confirmation time; the consensus results of PoE can reflect the node’s ecological characteristics in convergence media which can stimulate the activity of nodes and better solve the generation of the Matthew effect.
Does Cross-Border E-Commerce Promote Economic Growth? Empirical Research on China’s Pilot Zones
Authors: Zhong Min , Wang Zengtao , Ge Xing
Published: September 2022

Whether the construction of China’s cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) comprehensive pilot zones can promote economic growth and social sustainable development is an important question worthy of discussion. This paper uses the difference-in-differences (DID) method to test the impact of the establishment of CBEC comprehensive pilot zones on economic growth and discusses the impact mechanism. The results are as follows. (1) The construction of CBEC comprehensive pilot zones can promote economic growth. After testing with parallel trend, placebo, and other robustness methods, the results are still valid. (2) The economic promotion effect of the construction of CBEC comprehensive pilot zones will be more evident in the coastal and eastern regions. The economic promotion effect of the first, second, and third batch of CBEC comprehensive pilot zones is clear. (3) The main ways that the construction of CBEC comprehensive pilot zones can facilitate economic growth are through urban digitalization, trade openness, and information service industry agglomeration.
Codon Usage Bias for Fatty Acid Genes FAE1 and FAD2 in Oilseed Brassica Species
Authors: Chaudhary Rajat , Chand Subhash , Alam Bharath Kumar , Yadav Prashant , Meena Vijay Kamal , Patel Manoj Kumar , Pardeshi Priya , Rathore Sanjay Singh , Taak Yashpal , Saini Navinder , Yadava Devendra Kumar , Vasudev Sujata
Published: September 2022

Codon usage bias (CUB) phenomenon varies with the species and even within the genes of the same species, where few codons are preferred more frequently than their other synonymous codons. It also categorizes the differences between species. Nucleotide compositional analysis reveals the molecular mechanisms of genes and the evolutionary relationship of a gene in dissimilar plant species. In the present study, three orthologous sequences of each FAE1 (FAE1.1, FAE1.2, and FAE1.3) and FAD2 (FAD2.1, FAD2.2, and FAD2.3) genes, from six Brassica species were accessed using the GenBank database. Further, CUB-related parameters such as nucleotide composition (AT and GC content), relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU), the effective number of codons (ENC), frequency of optimal codons (Fop), relative codon usage bias (RCBS), neutrality plot (GC12 vs. GC3), parity rule-2 [(A3/(A3 + T3) vs. (G3/(G3 + C3)], and correspondence analysis (COA) were analyzed to compare codon bias in U’s triangle Brassica species. The FAE1 genes were AT-biased and FAD2 genes were GC-biased across the studied Brassica species. RSCU values indicated that both the genes had moderate codon usage frequency for selected amino acids. The evolutionary study confirmed that codon usage preference is similar within the species grouped into the same cluster for FAE1; however, B. nigra performed differently for FAD2.2 orthologue. The high ENC value, low Fop, and RSCU value highlighted that FAE1 and FAD2 genes had a low level of gene expression and moderate preference for codon usage across the Brassicas. In addition, neutrality plot, parity rule, and correspondence analysis revealed that natural selection pressure had significantly contributed to CUB for FAE1 genes, whereas mutation and selection pressure occurred for FAD2 genes. This study would help to decode codon optimization, improve the level of expression of exogenous genes, and transgenic engineering to increase fatty acid profiling for the betterment of seed oil in Brassica species.
Modern Pollen Analysis in the Estuary Habitats along the Coast of Dhofar (Sultanate of Oman)
Authors: Bellini Cristina , Ciani Francesco , Pignotti Lia , Baldini Riccardo Maria , Gonnelli Tiziana , Mariotti Lippi Marta
Published: September 2022

A lush vegetation develops around the numerous wadi estuaries interrupting the Dhofari coast in Southern Oman. Many estuaries still house mangroves of Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh., a very fragile ecosystem that is currently under threat in this area. A rather rich flora, strongly affected by the influence of the monsoon, grows in other estuaries. This study concerns the flora and vegetation of these peculiar habitats with special focus on the plants growing on the different substrates. To gain insights into the pollen diffusion and representation of these plants in the current pollen rain, we analyzed surface soil samples. By evaluating their pollen amounts, we related the modern pollen rain to the abundance/coverage of the plant species typical of the different environments. Rather than a punctual indication of the plants growing at a short distance, our pollen records offer a general picture of the flora and vegetation of the area. This information is crucial for the correct interpretation of pollen records from ancient soils, and underlines the utility of pollen analysis for the reconstruction of the vegetation history.
Design and Experiment of Substrate Grass Seed Blanket Extrusion Device
Authors: Liu Tianqi , Wang Jiaxin , Li Yuge , Liu Zihui , Sun Jiayi , Liu Dejun
Published: September 2022

After corn straw and livestock manure are fermented and decomposed, grass seeds are added. The substrate grass seed blanket is made by screw extrusion, applied to park greening, square greening, protective greening, and residential area greening. With this device, the purpose of reducing the labor force and improving space utilization rate can be achieved. The working principle of the substrate grass seed blanket extrusion device is mainly described, and the extrusion process is analyzed including: compaction and filling stage, surface deformation and compaction stage, plastic deformation stage, and molding stage. The main experimental factors are determined through theoretical analysis of screw size and working parameters, including screw pitch, screw length, screw diameter, and screw speed. Using the EDEM simulation analysis method, taking the quality of extruded particles and the uniformity of grass seed mixing as test indexes, and under the condition of the same extrusion time of 30 s using Design-Expert software to carry out an orthogonal quadratic rotation combination test, a significant regression model was obtained. The effects of different parameters and extrusion conditions on grass seed blanket forming influence were studied by response surface analysis. The optimal working parameters were obtained: screw speed 250 r·min−1, screw pitch 120~80 mm, screw diameter 240 mm, and screw length 400 mm. With the same extrusion time of 30 s, extruded pellet mass was 2620 g, calculated mass flow rate was 131 g/s, and the grass seed mixing uniformity was 92.35%. Under the optimal simulation conditions, the prototype was manufactured, and the actual verification test was carried out. The errors between the measured values of extruded substrate quality and grass seed mixing uniformity and the simulation test results were 3.4% and 2.5%, respectively, which met the requirements of the grass seed blanket extrusion molding device.