bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Online Gait Detection with an Automatic Mobile Trainer Inspired by Neuro-Developmental Treatment
Authors: Wang Fu-Cheng , Li You-Chi , Wu Kai-Lin , Chen Po-Yin , Fu Li-Chen
Published: June 2020

This paper demonstrates the development of an automatic mobile trainer employing inertial movement units (IMUs). The device is inspired by Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT), which is an effective rehabilitation method for stroke patients that promotes the relearning of motor skills by repeated training. However, traditional NDT training is very labor intensive and time consuming for therapists, thus, stroke patients usually cannot receive sufficient rehabilitation training. Therefore, we developed a mobile assisted device that can automatically repeat the therapists’ intervention and help increase patient training time. The proposed mobile trainer, which allows the users to move at their preferred speeds, consists of three systems: the gait detection system, the motor control system, and the movable mechanism. The gait detection system applies IMUs to detect the user’s gait events and triggers the motor control system accordingly. The motor control system receives the triggering signals and imitates the therapist’s intervention patterns by robust control. The movable mechanism integrates these first two systems to form a mobile gait-training device. Finally, we conducted preliminary tests and defined two performance indexes to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed trainer. Based on the results, the mobile trainer is deemed successful at improving the testing subjects’ walking ability.
Innovation as the Backbone of Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Mozas-Moral Adoración , Bernal-Jurado Enrique , Fernández-Uclés Domingo , Medina-Viruel Miguel
Published: June 2020

This paper focuses on the achievement of one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) through the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in Social Economy enterprises. Specifically, this research studies which are the conditioning factors for the active use of ICT (technological innovation) in the second-degree of olive oil cooperativism in Spain. The reason for the importance of this sector is that it currently leads world oil production. Moreover, second-degree cooperativism overcomes one of the problems frequently pointed out by the literature on the olive sector, namely the lack of concentration and integration of supply. In order to achieve the objective established in this research study, the fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) methodological technique has been used. The results obtained indicate that the degree of technological innovation is favored by the intensity of cooperative integration, diversification within the company, orientation towards the final market (packaged sales), ICT training of employees, the commercial importance of the foreign sector and the supply of ecological products.
Life Cycle Assessment of a Rotationally Asymmetrical Compound Parabolic Concentrator (RACPC)
Authors: Zawadzki Przemyslaw , Muhammad-Sukki Firdaus , Abu-Bakar Siti Hawa , Bani Nurul Aini , Abubakar Mas’ud Abdullahi , Ardila-Rey Jorge Alfredo , Munir Abu Bakar
Published: June 2020

Integrating a concentrator into the building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) design has resulted in a new technology known as the building integrated concentrating photovoltaic (BICPV). The rotationally asymmetrical compound parabolic concentrator (RACPC) is an example of a concentrator design that has been explored for use in BICPV. This paper evaluates the life cycle assessment (LCA) for the RACPC-PV module, which has never been explored before. The LCA of the RACPC-PV module has found a cost reduction of 29.09% and a reduction of 11.76% of embodied energy material manufacture when compared to a conventional solar photovoltaic (PV) module. The energy payback time for an RACPC-PV and a conventional PV was calculated to be 8.01 and 6.63 years, respectively. Moreover, the energy return on investment ratio was calculated to be 3.12 for a conventional PV and 3.77 for an RACPC-PV.
Comparison of Potential Contribution of Typical Pavement Materials to Heat Island Effect
Authors: Yang Hailu , Yang Kai , Miao Yinghao , Wang Linbing , Ye Chen
Published: June 2020

Pavement materials have significant influence on the urban heat island effect (UHIE). This paper presents a study on the potential effects of pavement materials on UHIE in a natural environment. Three typical pavement materials, including cement concrete, dense asphalt concrete and porous asphalt mixture, were selected to evaluate their anti-UHIE properties by testing. In this paper, heat island potential (HIP) is proposed as a new index to analyze the influence of pavement materials on UHIE. It is shown that the temperature inside a pavement distinctly depends on the depth, and varies, but is usually higher than the air temperature. Solar radiation in the daytime significantly contributes to the temperature of pavement surface and the upper part. The correlation becomes weak at the middle and the bottom of pavements. Among the three materials tested in this study, the anti-UHIE performance of cement concrete is significantly higher than that of the other asphalt mixtures, while the porous asphalt mixture is slightly better than the dense asphalt concrete in anti-UHIE.
Research Collaboration Patterns in Sustainable Mining—A Co-Authorship Analysis of Publications
Authors: Bemke-Świtilnik Magdalena , Drabek Aneta , Kamińska Anna Małgorzata , Smoliński Adam
Published: June 2020

This article quantitatively examines the patterns of collaborative research in the field of sustainable development of the mining sector. The study is based on bibliographic data of 4420 Scopus index research articles published in the period 1983–2018. Both trend and network analyses were employed in this investigation. The results show a rise in the number of joint articles and in the average number of the authors per joint article. Moreover, no increase in the relative numbers of interinstitutional, international, and cross-sector articles was observed. The collaborative efforts, in terms of the co-authorships, were taken mostly among authors affiliated with the one sector—namely, science and research institutions. This indicates that funding agencies should foster more intensively the cross-sector research collaborations for sustainable mining. However, the most collaborative countries formed cross-continental clusters, thus indicating the global character of research collaboration for sustainable mining. This, in turn, can support solving mining issues with long-term implications, especially the impact of the mining industry on the environment.
A Framework to Classify Environmental Inequity in Absolute and Relative Terms, and Its Application in Beijing
Authors: Wu Jiansheng , Zhou Junhao , Zhang Wen
Published: June 2020

Although reducing environmental inequities is widely recognized as an essential step towards sustainable cities, decision-makers frequently lack the tools to identify inequity distribution patterns and designing effective intervention policies. This study seeks to present a framework that can help decision-making processes by classifying environmental inequity districts in multiple perspectives, especially in absolute and relative terms. This framework includes four steps: (A) variable selection, (B) data normalization, (C) ranking indicators, (D) summarizing inequity classification, which then assign results to selected areas. The framework aims to classify and compare environmental inequities in multiple perspectives, and can be applied in various environmental problems, with advantages such as high acceptability and clear comprehensibility. To show the potential use of this framework, a case application in Beijing, China, was conducted to evaluate the environmental inequity of air pollution. The results suggest that decision-makers should focus on the central urban area and some southern regions of Beijing to implement various improvement policies. Based on the results from Beijing, how the framework can be used to help decision-makers, the future roles of this framework with the government and the public, as well as the framework’s limitations are further discussed.
Loofah Sponges as Bio-Carriers in a Pilot-Scale Integrated Fixed-Film Activated Sludge System for Municipal Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Dang Huyen T.T. , Dinh Cuong V. , Nguyen Khai M. , Tran Nga T.H. , Pham Thuy T. , Narbaitz Roberto M.
Published: June 2020

Fixed-film biofilm reactors are considered one of the most effective wastewater treatment processes, however, the cost of their plastic bio-carriers makes them less attractive for application in developing countries. This study evaluated loofah sponges, an eco-friendly renewable agricultural product, as bio-carriers in a pilot-scale integrated fixed-film activated sludge (IFAS) system for the treatment of municipal wastewater. Tests showed that pristine loofah sponges disintegrated within two weeks resulting in a decrease in the treatment efficiencies. Accordingly, loofah sponges were modified by coating them with CaCO3 and polymer. IFAS pilot tests using the modified loofah sponges achieved 83% organic removal and 71% total nitrogen removal and met Vietnam’s wastewater effluent discharge standards. The system achieved considerably high levels of nitrification and it was not limited by the loading rate or dissolved oxygen levels. Cell concentrations in the carriers were twenty to forty times higher than those within the aeration tank. Through 16S-rRNA sequencing, the major micro-organism types identified were Kluyvera cryocrescens, Exiguobacterium indicum, Bacillus tropicus, Aeromonas hydrophila, Enterobacter cloacae, and Pseudomonas turukhanskensis. This study demonstrated that although modified loofah sponges are effective renewable bio-carriers for municipal wastewater treatment, longer-term testing is recommended.
Taipei and Seoul’s Modern Urbanization under Japanese Colonial Rule: A Comparative Study from the Present-Day Context
Authors: Lee Yeonkyung
Published: June 2020

Both Taipei and Seoul underwent a process of colonization and modern urbanization during the early part of the 20th century, under Japanese rule. In both countries, urban-planning projects from the colonial period have had a great impact on recent urban changes. This comparative analysis aims to identify the characteristics of modern cities with Japanese colonial histories, focusing on the following three aspects: (1) Urban structure based on spatial distribution by ethnic group; (2) Japanese colonial urban planning; and (3) modern boulevards that convey the power and spectacle of a colonial city. Taipei and Seoul have multi-cores because the Japanese and Taiwanese/Korean areas were not clearly separated spatially. Secondly, Japanese colonial urban planning was influenced by Japanese settlements and government facilities. Thirdly, the main boulevards in each city, created through modern urban planning, combine modern streetscapes with imperial spectacle. These boulevards took on an important political meaning after liberation. Comparative studies of Taipei and Seoul can illuminate the difference between modern cities with a Japanese colonial history and colonial cities under European rule. Such comparisons make it possible to analyze the meaning, value, and relevance of colonial remnants, including urban structure and artifacts, for each city’s sustainable future.
Creativity and Emotions: A Descriptive Study of the Relationships between Creative Attitudes and Emotional Competencies of Primary School Students
Authors: Hernández-Jorge Carmen M. , Rodríguez-Hernández Antonio F. , Kostiv Olena , Gil-Frías Pilar B. , Domínguez Medina Raquel , Rivero Francisco
Published: June 2020

This article presents the results of an exploratory study on the relationships between the emotional competencies and attitudes towards creativity in a sample of primary school students. This study is part of a wider project on the implementation of the curricular area “Emotional Education and Creativity,” a far-reaching innovation in the educational system of the Canary Islands, Spain. A validated questionnaire for the evaluation of emotional and creative variables from the teachers’ perspectives was used. The questionnaire was given to 230 primary school teachers, who used it to assess the emotional and creative competencies of 2540 schoolchildren. A bivariate correlation was carried out to establish the relationship between these competencies, and a multiple regression analysis was used to understand the influence of emotional skills on creativity. The results obtained confirmed the close relationship between the emotional dimension and the creative construct. Specifically, it was observed that emotional awareness was the competence with the closest relationship, together with the responsibility for one’s own emotions, and the one that had the greatest weight in explaining creative competences. This result emphasizes that emotional and creative competencies complement each other and highlights the importance of working on these competencies together. We are committed to continuing with this line of research that supports an emotional conception of creativity.
The Impact of the Family Background on Students’ Entrepreneurial Intentions: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Georgescu Maria-Ana , Herman Emilia
Published: June 2020

In the current economic and social environment, a real challenge for youth is the acquisition and development of the relevant skills in entrepreneurship in order to consider entrepreneurship as a desirable employment choice. Given this aspect, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the main factors influencing students’ entrepreneurial intentions, paying particular attention to their entrepreneurial family background. Additionally, the paper aims to explore the effect of entrepreneurial family background on the relationship between effectiveness of entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial intention. We conducted a study where results were based on the outcomes of a survey among Romanian high school and university students in the final year (N = 617). Our four main hypotheses were tested through independent samples t-tests, correlation analysis, and hierarchical multiple regression analysis. The findings highlighted that the students with an entrepreneurial family background reported a higher entrepreneurial intention than those without such a background. The variables that positively influenced the entrepreneurial intentions of the students were entrepreneurial family background, effectiveness of entrepreneurship education, and entrepreneurial personality traits. Furthermore, this entrepreneurial family background negatively moderated the relationship between effectiveness of entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial intention. For this reason, emphasis should be placed on both formal and informal entrepreneurial education, which will increase the propensity of young people to choose an entrepreneurial career.
Tracing Paths from Research to Practice in Climate Change Education
Authors: Armstrong Anne K. , Krasny Marianne E.
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate the incorporation of climate change social science research into climate change education practice. Semi-structured interviews with 19 educators from five climate change related professional development programs and networks revealed a high level of awareness of climate change social science research. Educators accessed research through a variety of means and reported both practice change and a sense of validation as a result of the research. They reported shifting toward programs that focused less on climate facts to programs that focused on solutions and that integrated their understanding of audiences’ values and identities. They also reported feeling a conflict between their practice knowledge and the knowledge they gained through professional development and accessing research. This work begins to fill a gap both in our understanding of how nonformal educators communicate about climate change and in how they use research in their practice.
Assessment of Ecological Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability of the Minjiang-Source in China
Authors: Li Junlong , Cai Chuangneng , Zhang Feng
Published: June 2020

Ecological sustainability is treated as a main reflection of the synergy among social development, economic growth and environmental protection, while ecological efficiency is an index used to reflect the sustainable development of the ecological environment. The super efficiency model with undesirable outputs (SE-SBM) model was applied to measure the eco-efficiency of the 12 counties in the Minjiang-Source, China, in 2005–2017. The spatial and temporal evolution and spatial differentiation of the eco-efficiency were analyzed. The results showed that the eco-efficiency of 67.7% of the 12 counties remains at a low level but with an increasing trend. A typical spatial aggregation effect was found with the characteristics of “high in the east and low in the west”. The Malmquist-Luenberger index shows a trend of fluctuation with the same trend between scale efficiency and technical efficiency changes. The results proved the positive effect of technological progress on local eco-efficiency. Environmental regulation has a positive impact on eco-efficiency in the short term and an inhibition effect in the long run. Hence, technological innovation and industrial adjustment will be an effective way to improve the eco-efficiency of the Minjiang-Source and promote its sustainability.
Microplastics as Vectors of Chromium and Lead during Dynamic Simulation of the Human Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Godoy Verónica , Martínez-Férez Antonio , Martín-Lara María Ángeles , Vellido-Pérez José Antonio , Calero Mónica , Blázquez Gabriel
Published: June 2020

The human body is exposed to the ingestion of microplastics that are often contaminated with other substances, which can be released into our body. In this work, a dynamic in-vitro simulator of the gastrointestinal tract based on a membrane reactor has been used for the first time to study the release, bioaccessibility, and bioavailability of chromium (Cr) and lead (Pb) from polyethylene and polypropylene microplastics previously contaminated in the laboratory. The results showed that 23.11% of the initial Cr and 23.17% of the initial Pb present in microplastics were able to cross the tubular membrane, simulating the intestinal absorption phase. The pH evolution during the gastric phase and the duodenal phase, the interaction mechanisms with physiological fluids, and the properties of the polymers, such as specific surface, porosity, and/or surface degradation, affected the kinetics of release from the microplastics and the behavior of both heavy metals. Cr was released very early in the gastric phase, but also began simultaneously to precipitate quite fast, while Pb was released slower and in less quantity than Cr, and did not precipitate until the beginning of the duodenal phase. This study shows, for the first time, how useful the dynamic gastrointestinal simulator is to study the behavior of microplastics and some problematic heavy metals along the human gastrointestinal tract, and can serve as a reference for future studies focused on the effects of these substances in the human body.
The Right to Not Catch Up—Transitioning European Territorial Cohesion towards Spatial Justice for Sustainability
Authors: Demeterova Barbara , Fischer Tatjana , Schmude Jürgen
Published: June 2020

Recent EU environmental and spatial policies notably strive towards the development paradigm of green growth and economic competitiveness. However, operationalizing spatial policies through growth-driven GDP logics promotes an unequal race towards narrowly defined developmental ‘success’, while perpetuating social, economic and environmental inequalities. Meanwhile, the EU’s territorial cohesion approach has remained a conceptual ‘black box’, its apparent inadequacy for notably mitigating territorial disparities leading to renewed questions about territorial policy’s relevance, delivery and evaluation. In this paper, we add to calls for redesigning territorial cohesion by proposing a turn towards spatial justice for territorial sustainability. Pointing out the need to refocus on regional capabilities and alternative development trajectories, we argue that the ‘right to not catch up’ enables a more locally meaningful and globally sustainable development. Drawing from regional statistics, policy analyses and an empirical case study of three European Territorial Cooperation programs in the heterogeneous Austrian-Czech-Slovak-Hungarian border region, we illustrate how current EU spatial policy approaches evolve in regional practice and why current policy aims fall short for sustainable transformations. Through interrogating development discourses and their alternatives, we contribute to emerging new perspectives on sustainable territorial development at the European as well as at regional levels.
Towards Financial Sustainability of the Hospital Sector in Poland—A Post Hoc Evaluation of Policy Approaches
Authors: Dubas-Jakóbczyk Katarzyna , Kozieł Anna
Published: June 2020

In Poland, as well as in many other countries around the world, hospitals constitute the cornerstone of health care provision. In 2020, hospitals stand at the frontline of the fight with the coronavirus pandemic, and are facing huge pressures. The issue of supporting the financial sustainability of the hospital sector has become especially important. The objectives of this study were to: (1) Provide a retrospective evaluation of the reforms aimed at improving the financial sustainability of hospitals in Poland, adopted and implemented within the last two decades (2000–2019), and (2) identify the main drivers of hospitals’ financial standing. A longitudinal analysis (2003–2018) of the stock of public hospital debt in Poland was also conducted. Methods applied included statistical data analysis and literature review. Results indicate that diverse top-down approaches (debt-relief programs with restructuration or corporatization elements as well as hospital network reform) provided limited results in terms of the improvement of the individual hospitals’ financial standing. The reasons for the reforms’ failures were mixed. Public hospitals operate under a unique and complex system of regulations with diverse external stakeholders and/or determinants influencing hospital revenues and cost generation. A more comprehensive and evidence-based approach is needed in developing policies aimed at supporting hospitals’ financial sustainability in Poland.
Soil Physicochemical Properties, Metal Deposition, and Ultrastructural Midgut Changes in Ground Beetles, Calosoma chlorostictum, under Agricultural Pollution
Authors: Nasr Enas E. , Khater Zeinab Z. , Zelenakova Martina , Vranayova Zuzana , Abu-Hashim Mohamed
Published: June 2020

Unsustainable agricultural practices that minimize soil organic matter can promote the removal of heavy metal pollutants into the food chain. Such polluted soils can release contaminants into the groundwater, which leads to accumulation in plant tissue that is transferred to animals, birds, insects, and humans. Biomonitors of soil pollution with heavy metals can be identified by the ground beetles Calosoma chlorostictum (Coleoptera: Carabidae) as bioindicators of soil quality and its yield sustainability. The experiment was performed on two sites in Zagazig City (30.62° N, 31.44° E), Egypt. The physicochemical parameters indicated that soil moisture and organic matter had the highest differences in the polluted agricultural soil compared to the reference soil. However, there were no significant differences in chloride content. The atomic absorption analysis exhibited the highest concentration recorded for arsenic (As) and the lowest for selenium (Se) in the polluted soil and the insect’s midgut. Meanwhile, the differences between heavy metal concentrations in the total soil and midgut of C. chlorostictum from current sites indicated that the highest differences were in aluminum (Al) and mercury (Hg), while arsenic (As) and cadmium (Cd) were the lowest. Furthermore, the correlation between heavy metal concentrations in the soil and insect midgut was highest in As, while the lowest correlation was noticed in Al. We used transmission electron microscopy (TEM) that showed a more considerable disturbance in the C. chlorostictum midgut epithelial layer collected from the agricultural area than in the insects collected from the reference area. Evident ultrastructural alterations showed a rupture and distortion of microvilli, destruction of the columnar and regenerative cells, large separation between epithelial cells, and stretching of the cellular axis, as a result of which the lumen became very narrow. Moreover, a lot of vacuoles with little enzyme secretion were observed in the columnar epithelial cells. In addition, other manifestations due to pollution with heavy metals such as a pyknotic nucleus with abnormal chromatin, cytoplasmic vacuolization, disruptions, and vacuolation of mitochondria were detected, as well as the appearance of electron-dense vesicles, a lot of lysosomes, large myelin figures, and dilation of the rough endoplasmic reticulum on account of soil contamination. Potential counteractive health influence in such applications could be avoided if the soil was adequately treated.
Hotel Brand Loyalty—A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Górska-Warsewicz Hanna , Kulykovets Olena
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to analyze hotel brand loyalty (HBL) based on a systematic literature review conducted according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) statements. Following these statements, we searched two databases (Scopus and Web of Science) for studies containing the term ‘hotel brand loyalty’. Additionally, the backward and forward snowballing methods were applied. Only empirical studies concerning loyalty towards brand hotels were included, resulting in 26 studies in the final review. The quality of the various studies was evaluated according to the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. The studies included in the systematic review were analyzed in three areas: general details and study design (authorship, year of publication, type of study, research country or location, characteristic of the sample population, the purpose of stay or travel, type of hotels, hotel brands), research specifications (factors/variables, hypotheses, measurement items, data analysis), and general findings (findings related to HBL and managerial recommendations). To summarize the results, word cloud visualization was applied. For studies included in the systematic review, HBL was analyzed on two levels: in the context of factors determining the guest/tourist loyalty to the hotel brands (such as frequently mentioned brand awareness, brand image, and perceived quality) as well as those pertaining to models of brand equity. This highlighted the need for managers to perform activities in terms of brand experience and shape long-term relationships in order to strengthen loyalty to hotel brands.
Conceptualizing Niche–Regime Dynamics of Energy Transitions from a Political Economic Perspective: Insights from Community-Led Urban Solar in Seoul
Authors: Mah Daphne Ngar-yin , Cheung Darren Man-wai
Published: June 2020

The complex dynamics between technological niches and regime “lock-in” are critical in determining the pace and outcomes of energy transitions. The socio-technical transitions literature has received growing scholarly attention, but it lacks consideration of the broader political and economic contexts. This paper aims to advance understanding of socio-technical transitions by conceptualizing niche–regime dynamics from a political economic perspective, with reference to a case study of solar in Seoul. Based on in-depth face-to-face interviews with 18 key stakeholders, we have three findings. Firstly, the politico-economic contexts have created an embedded environment in which five factors have a clear influence on niche–regime dynamics. Secondly, the politico-economic contexts created conducive conditions for niche developments on the one hand, but, on the other hand, have created inhibitive conditions that have cancelled out the positive forces and reinforced “lock-in”. Thirdly, the processes occur at multi-scalar levels: Community solar niches in Seoul are conditioned by the broader politico-economic contexts at city and national levels. We conclude that sufficient policy attention should be given to the political economy of a national energy system in order to create conducive conditions for community-led niches to realize the full potential that they could offer in energy transitions.
Gamification in Higher Education: Impact on Student Motivation and the Acquisition of Social and Civic Key Competencies
Authors: Campillo-Ferrer José-María , Miralles-Martínez Pedro , Sánchez-Ibáñez Raquel
Published: June 2020

This study investigates to what extent the popular online gaming platform called Kahoot can be used as a creative and effective tool to promote motivation, engagement and meaningful learning. For this purpose, a quasi-experimental study was conducted with a sample of 101 undergraduate students of education who participated in online Kahoot quizzes by designing their own questions as part of the formative assessment. According to the results of the pre- and post-tests, the integration of this game-based student response system into the teaching process improved students’ perception of certain concepts in social science teaching, increased their active participation in the lesson, and motivated them towards learning in a more interactive and stimulating environment. Therefore, it is recommended to take gamification to a whole new level with attractive digital participation platforms to increase motivation and enhance students’ learning experience in higher education contexts.
Motivating Factors for Implementing Apparel Certification Schemes—A Sustainable Supply Chain Management Perspective
Authors: Oelze Nelly , Gruchmann Tim , Brandenburg Marcus
Published: June 2020

The motivations for clothing companies to implement dedicated certification schemes as sustainability practices has received limited attention in sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) research so far. Therefore, it is important to understand how different rationales for the implementation of certification schemes have developed in the past because they considerably influence the overall success of sustainability management efforts. This paper picks up on this gap and presents the results of an in-depth comparative case study drawing on interviews conducted with five managers of three companies from the clothing sector in 2018 and abductive content analysis. By applying such a qualitative approach, this study explores motivations and benefits as well as elaborates on the implementation of certification schemes in apparel supply chains. It outlines that certification in the clothing sector is driven by strategic factors, marketing considerations, and information considering sustainability aspects. The study also shows that certification schemes may strengthen the marketing and competitive position of clothing companies as well as sustainability awareness in textile and apparel supply chains in general. Finally, a framework conceptualized from the findings of the interviews presents relevant SSCM practices in the clothing industry. Therefore, the present study contributes to theory building in SSCM by confirming and extending previous research on the implementation of certification schemes for sustainability, as well as to practice by examining reasons to apply certification schemes and potential performance outcomes.
The Ethical Balance of Using Smart Information Systems for Promoting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Ryan Mark , Antoniou Josephina , Brooks Laurence , Jiya Tilimbe , Macnish Kevin , Stahl Bernd
Published: June 2020

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are internationally agreed goals that allow us to determine what humanity, as represented by 193 member states, finds acceptable and desirable. The paper explores how technology can be used to address the SDGs and in particular Smart Information Systems (SIS). SIS, the technologies that build on big data analytics, typically facilitated by AI techniques such as machine learning, are expected to grow in importance and impact. Some of these impacts are likely to be beneficial, notably the growth in efficiency and profits, which will contribute to societal wellbeing. At the same time, there are significant ethical concerns about the consequences of algorithmic biases, job loss, power asymmetries and surveillance, as a result of SIS use. SIS have the potential to exacerbate inequality and further entrench the market dominance of big tech companies, if left uncontrolled. Measuring the impact of SIS on SDGs thus provides a way of assessing whether an SIS or an application of such a technology is acceptable in terms of balancing foreseeable benefits and harms. One possible approach is to use the SDGs as guidelines to determine the ethical nature of SIS implementation. While the idea of using SDGs as a yardstick to measure the acceptability of emerging technologies is conceptually strong, there should be empirical evidence to support such approaches. The paper describes the findings of a set of 6 case studies of SIS across a broad range of application areas, such as smart cities, agriculture, finance, insurance and logistics, explicitly focusing on ethical issues that SIS commonly raise and empirical insights from organisations using these technologies.
Performance Assessment of a Hybrid System with Hydrogen Storage and Fuel Cell for Cogeneration in Buildings
Authors: Boulmrharj Sofia , Khaidar Mohammed , Bakhouya Mohamed , Ouladsine Radouane , Siniti Mostapha , Zine-dine Khalid
Published: June 2020

The search for new fuels to supersede fossil fuels has been intensified these recent decades. Among these fuels, hydrogen has attracted much interest due to its advantages, mainly cleanliness and availability. It can be produced from various raw materials (e.g., water, biomass) using many resources, mainly water electrolysis and natural gas reforming. However, water electrolysis combined with renewable energy sources is the cleanest way to produce hydrogen while reducing greenhouse gases. Besides, hydrogen can be used by fuel cells for producing both electrical and thermal energy. The aim of this work was towards efficient integration of this system into energy efficient buildings. The system is comprised of a photovoltaic system, hydrogen electrolyzer, and proton exchange membrane fuel cell operating as a cogeneration system to provide the building with both electricity and thermal energy. The system’s modeling, simulations, and experimentations were first conducted over a short-run period to assess the system’s performance. Reported results show the models’ accuracy in analyzing the system’s performance. We then used the developed models for long-run testing of the hybrid system. Accordingly, the system’s electrical efficiency was almost 32%. Its overall efficiency reached 64.5% when taking into account both produced electricity and thermal energy.
Modeling and Analysis of Electric Vehicle-Power Grid-Manufacturing Facility (EPM) Energy Sharing System under Time-of-Use Electricity Tariff
Authors: Chu Xiaolin , Ge Yuntian , Zhou Xue , Li Lin , Yang Dong
Published: June 2020

Electric vehicles (EVs) have obtained increasing public interest due to the associated economic and environmental benefits. Recently, studies regarding the economic advantages of adopting EVs as energy storages for commercial/residential buildings are emerging. In fact, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the industrial sector consumes more energy than all of the other sectors combined, which is about 54% of the world’s total delivered energy. The energy consumption pattern in manufacturing facilities is based on production schedules and the heat transfer between machines and the ambient surroundings, thus, differs greatly from commercial/residential buildings. However, little research attention has been given to analyse the synergies of integrating EVs and manufacturing facilities to improve energy efficiency. To fill this research gap, in this study, a comprehensive model is established to evaluate the economic and environmental performance of an energy sharing system that consists of the EVs, power grid, and manufacturing facilities (EPM) under Time-of-Use (TOU) electricity tariff. The model is formulated as a mixed integer nonlinear programming format by considering practical production schedules, heat exchange between machines and ambient surroundings, as well as the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The case study results indicate that the presented EPM energy sharing system has great potential to reduce energy cost and CO2 emissions. In addition, compared to the results from winter scenarios, it is shown that more cost savings can be achieved in summer days.
Influence of Particle Size on the Properties of Boards Made from Washingtonia Palm Rachis with Citric Acid
Authors: Ferrandez-Garcia Maria Teresa , Ferrandez-Garcia Antonio , Garcia-Ortuño Teresa , Ferrandez-Garcia Clara Eugenia , Ferrandez-Villena Manuel
Published: June 2020

The manufacture of technical materials of mineral and synthetic origin currently used for thermal insulation in buildings consumes a large amount of energy and they are not biodegradable. In order to reduce the environmental problems generated by their manufacture, an increasing amount of research is being carried out on the use of renewable and ecological resources. Consequently, the use of plant fibers and natural adhesives in the development of new thermal insulating products is increasing worldwide. Palm trees were used as a replacement for wood in some traditional constructions in places with scarce wood resources. This paper discusses the use of palm pruning waste in the manufacture of particleboards, using citric acid as a natural binder. Five particle sizes of Washingtonia palm rachis were used as the raw material for manufacturing the boards and the citric acid content was set at 10% by weight, in relation to the weight of the rachis particles. Single-layer agglomerated panels were made, applying a pressure of 2.6 MPa and a temperature of 150 °C for 7 min. Twenty panels were produced and their density, thickness swelling, water absorption, modulus of rupture, internal bonding strength and thermal conductivity properties were studied. Smaller particle size resulted in better mechanical properties. The boards had an average thermal conductivity of 0.084 W/m·K, meaning that these boards could be used for thermal insulation in buildings.
Migration Intentions of Romanian Engineering Students
Authors: Gherheș Vasile , Dragomir Gabriel-Mugurel , Cernicova-Buca Mariana
Published: June 2020

This paper aims to diagnose Romanian engineering students in relation to their migration intentions, motivations, and destinations, and to predict the magnitude of migration in the polled population. It presents the results of a quantitative study based on a questionnaire survey consistent in terms of number and structure of variables and responses. The online questionnaire was self-administered by 1782 students from the five major technical Romanian universities, which are the main providers of the highly skilled labor force in the area of engineering. Regression analysis was carried out to correlate the drivers of migration and the potential for real migration. According to the results, Romanian students from technical universities are inclined to migrate in a significant proportion; the economic factor being the main migration driver. The predictive model built on the logistical regression and the collected data accounts only partially for the variations of the variable decision to migrate, so further research is needed. The analysis of the students’ mindset can prove useful to understand the future interactions between the new graduates and the labor market, to develop regional and national policies regarding human capital, and to root development plans towards sustainable economic growth in solid databases concerning the engineering profession.
The Impact of Global Value Chain Participation on Sectoral Growth and Productivity
Authors: Yanikkaya Halit , Altun Abdullah
Published: June 2020

This study investigates the impact of participation in global value chains (GVCs) on sectoral value-added and total factor productivity growth (TFP) for two different time periods of 1995–2011 and 2005–2015. In addition to the commonly used participation indices, we also calculate lesser known measures of backward and forward participation indices, as suggested by the OECD. Our Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimations for the full sample indicate that sectors with higher GVC participation experience much higher output and TFP growth, especially for the period 1995–2011. Overall, our results imply that there have been decreasing gains from GVC participation in the later period. Note that our estimates for both output and TFP growth are very much similar. This means that participation in GVCs promotes not only output growth but also productivity growth across sectors. Considering the parameter heterogeneity, we repeat our estimations for manufacturing and services separately. Although for the earlier period both the manufacturing and services sectors benefit from more participation in terms of higher output and productivity growth, only the manufacturing sector experiences higher productivity growth from more participation for the period 2005–2015. Relatively less significant and smaller estimates for the later period covering the latest global crisis imply that participation in GVCs fails to bring satisfactory gains to countries and sectors.
Identification and Analysis of Barriers against Electric Vehicle Use
Authors: Adhikari Madhusudhan , Ghimire Laxman Prasad , Kim Yeonbae , Aryal Prakash , Khadka Sundar Bahadur
Published: June 2020

Electric vehicles (EVs) can be considered an alternative technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector. However, numerous barriers need to be overcome in this regard. This study is aimed at presenting the framework for the identification and analysis of barriers against the use of EVs. Then, the framework was applied to identify the challenges and rank them in order of importance against the diffusion of EVs in Nepal. Seventeen barriers were identified from previous studies, reports, policy documents, and interactions with experts. The identified barriers were classified into five categories: technical, policy, economic, infrastructure, and social. Then, a comparative survey was performed to obtain experts’ opinions on the identified barriers and the analytical hierarchical process was used to analyze and rank them. The results revealed that infrastructure, policy, economic, and technical barriers pose more pressing concerns than social barriers. The lack of charging stations, relatively higher purchase price of EVs compared to internal combustion vehicles, and poor long-term planning and goal setting on the part of the government were ranked as the top three barriers against EV uptake in Nepal. This framework can be applied to replicate the study in other countries, taking their inherent relevant factors into account.
A Detailed Identification of Erosionally Endangered Agricultural Land in Slovakia (Case Study of Nitra Upland)
Authors: Petrikovičová Lucia , Rampašeková Zuzana , Sobocká Jaroslava
Published: June 2020

Water erosion and its processes are the most widespread and serious degradation phenomena in Slovakia (occurring in about 37% of the agricultural land). Given the increasing use of precise land management, it is necessary to have more detailed databases, especially in erosion-accumulation areas. The aim of the research was to identify in detail the areas of erosion-accumulation processes induced by water erosion, which can be considered as highly heterogeneous. In the territory of the Nitra upland the field survey methodology and grid mapping were used, the results of which were verified through soil erosion models. The mapping was done at the topic level and was verified using the USLE and ERDEP soil erosion models in ArcGIS. A comparison of the results of the potential model and real field parameters of soil erosion in the Nitra upland enabled us to generate dominant factors, respectively identify areas prone to soil erosion, and provided a detailed database for precise farming. At the same time, the results became the basis for a review of the current classification by erosion endangered soils. Overall, the methodology is suitable as a basis for developing sustainable management proposals in agricultural land affected by soil erosion risk.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Operating Performance: The Role of Local Character in Emerging Economies
Authors: He Fang , Miao Xin , Wong Christina W.Y. , Tang Yanhong
Published: June 2020

Local character can shape corporate resource accumulation and utilization, especially in emerging economies, and accordingly plays an important role in affecting the performance results of corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices. This paper thus aims to examine how local character affects the performance results of CSR practices. Drawing on the resource dependence theory and resource orchestration view, this study empirically investigates the effects of internal character (in terms of state ownership) and external local character (in terms of eight-dimension infrastructure) on the relationship between CSR and operating performance. Using samples of firms listed in the Chinese CSI 300 (capitalization weighted stock market index) in the years 2012 and 2016 and applying hierarchical multiple regression analysis, this study empirically verifies that CSR has a positive effect on corporate operating performance, and state ownership and infrastructure positively moderate the performance results of CSR efforts. Additionally, the results show that three dimensions (environmental, social, and governance) of CSR practices impact performance differently. Overall, this study unveils the crucial role of the local character on CSR to achieve performance and carries important theoretical and practical implications. Future research should include long panel data to increase statistical power as well as explore the linkage and synergy effect of CSR and governmental social responsibility (GSR).