bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quartz-Enhanced Photoacoustic Spectroscopy in the Terahertz Spectral Range
Authors: Votintsev Alexey P. , Borisov Alexey V. , Makashev Didar R. , Stoyanova Mariya Y. , Kistenev Yury V.
Published: July 2023

Infrared laser photo-acoustic spectroscopy provides very high sensitivity of a gas sample analysis when high-power tunable laser radiation sources and resonant photo-acoustic detectors (PADs) are used. In the resonant PAD, the acoustic signal generated by absorbed laser radiation in a measurement chamber is amplified proportionally to a Q-factor of the acoustic resonator. But, compact tunable high-power lasers (with power above 100 mW) still are not widely spread in the terahertz spectral range. One of the ways to achieve an acceptable sensitivity of terahertz photo-acoustic spectroscopy is using PADs with a very high Q-factor. The latter can be achieved using PAD with a quartz tuning fork. The current state in this field is presented in the review.
Tuning the Structural, Electronic, and Optical Properties of Monolayer Graphene through Heteroatom Doping: A First-Principles Study with Future Light Sensing Applications
Authors: Abdelazeez Ahmed Adel A. , Ben Gouider Trabelsi Amira , Alkallas Fatemah H. , AlFaify Salem , Shkir Mohd. , Alrebdi Tahani A. , Almugren Kholoud S. , Kusmatsev Feodor V. , Rabia Mohamed
Published: July 2023

This study explores the effects of Si and Si-P heteroatoms doping and co-doping on a monolayer graphene surface through density functional analysis. The results suggest that doping with Si and co-doping with Si-P significantly alters the bonding arrangement of the atoms surrounding the graphene sheet. Additionally, the surface of the graphene material had a high concentration of electrons in both Si doping and Si-P co-doping, based on electron population analysis. The HOMO–LUMO gap of graphene sheets was found to decrease in the following order: pristine graphene sheet > Si-doped graphene sheet > Si-P co-doped graphene sheet. Furthermore, a TD-DFT study revealed that the absorption wavelength of Si and Si-P co-doped graphene systems had a greater shift to a lower range compared to pristine graphene. The order of decreasing absorption wavelength is Si-P co-doped graphene, Si doped graphene, and pristine graphene. These materials are suggested to have a high potential for photodetector applications due to their broad absorption range.
The General Trends of Genetic Diversity Change in Alien Plants’ Invasion
Authors: Jiang Han , Zhang Yi , Tu Wenqin , Sun Geng , Wu Ning , Zhang Yongmei
Published: July 2023

Genetic diversity is associated with invasion dynamics during establishment and expansion stages by affecting the viability and adaptive potential of exotics. There have been many reports on the comparison between the genetic diversity of invasive alien species (IAS) in and out of their native habitats, but the conclusions were usually inconsistent. In this work, a standard meta-analysis of the genetic diversity of 19 invasive plants based on 26 previous studies was carried out to investigate the general trend for the change of IASs’ genetic diversity during their invasion process and its real correlation with the invasion fate. Those 26 studies were screened from a total of 3557 peer-reviewed publications from the ISI Web of Science database during the period of January 2000 to May 2022. Based on the selected studies in this work, a general reduction of IASs’ genetic diversity was found in non-native populations compared to that in native ones, while the difference was not significant. This finding suggested that regardless of the change in genetic diversity, it had no substantial effect on the outcome of the invasion process. Therefore, genetic diversity might not serve as a reliable indicator for risk assessment and prediction of invasion dynamic prediction in the case of IASs.
Flowered Grain Quality and Phytochemical Content of Non-Conventional Maize Hybrids from the Mexican Subtropics across Three Growing Cycles
Authors: García-Cruz Leticia , Vázquez-Carrillo María Gricelda , Preciado-Ortiz Ricardo Ernesto
Published: July 2023

Development of non-conventional hybrids responds to the demand for the Elotes Occidentales land-race for production of pozole. The effect of growing cycle (2019, 2020, and 2021) on physical characteristics, flowered grain quality, and phytochemical content of two non-conventional hybrids of pozolero maize, as well as the effect of the presence or absence of pedicel, type of pollination (open and controlled, 2019), and parents (female and male, 2020) on flowered grain quality and content of phytochemical compounds, were evaluated. Size, hardness, color, total phenols, and anthocyanins in unprocessed grain were determined. Yield, volume, and puncture force were measured in flowered grain. Results were analyzed with a factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design. There were significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in most of the variables studied by effect of crop cycle and hybrid. Non-conventional hybrids had large grains (40 g 100 grains−1), soft endosperm (flotation index > 60), pink-purple color, and phenol and anthocyanin contents similar to those reported for the Elotes Occidentales land-race. The presence or absence of the pedicel did not affect flowered grain quality. Controlled pollination favored anthocyanin synthesis. The female parent determined the anthocyanin content of non-conventional hybrids. Thermal processing reduced anthocyanins by 60%; however, they leached into the flowering broth, so that the pozole made from non-conventional hybrids can have improved nutraceutical value, relative to that of pozole made with Cacahuacintle land-race.
Review of Current Prospects for Using Miscanthus-Based Polymers
Authors: Shavyrkina Nadezhda A. , Budaeva Vera V. , Skiba Ekaterina A. , Gismatulina Yulia A. , Sakovich Gennady V.
Published: July 2023

Carbon neutrality is a requisite for industrial development in modern times. In this paper, we review information on possible applications of polymers from the energy crop Miscanthus in the global industries, and we highlight the life cycle aspects of Miscanthus in detail. We discuss the benefits of Miscanthus cultivation on unoccupied marginal lands as well as the rationale for the capabilities of Miscanthus regarding both soil carbon storage and soil remediation. We also discuss key trends in the processing of Miscanthus biopolymers for applications such as a fuel resources, as part of composite materials, and as feedstock for fractionation in order to extract cellulose, lignin, and other valuable chemicals (hydroxymethylfurfural, furfural, phenols) for the subsequent chemical synthesis of a variety of products. The potentialities of the biotechnological transformation of the Miscanthus biomass into carbohydrate nutrient media and then into the final products of microbiological synthesis are also examined herein.
Chitosan Derivative-Based Microspheres Loaded with Fibroblast Growth Factor for the Treatment of Diabetes
Authors: Wu Jue , Chen Qian , Wang Wenfei , Lin Yuhong , Kang Hong , Jin Zheng , Zhao Kai
Published: July 2023

Diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) is a disease caused by genetic and environmental factors, and the main clinical manifestation is hyperglycemia. Currently, insulin injections are still the first-line treatment for diabetes. However, repeated injections may cause insulin resistance, hypoglycemia, and other serious side effects. Thus, it is imperative to develop new diabetes treatments. Protein-based diabetes drugs, such as fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21), have a longer-lasting glycemic modulating effect with high biosafety. However, the instability of these protein drugs limits their applications. In this study, we extract protein hypoglycemic drugs with oral and injectable functions. The FGF-21 analog (NA-FGF) was loaded into the chitosan derivative-based nanomaterials, N-2-Hydroxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride chitosan/carboxymethyl chitosan (N-2-HACC/CMCS), to prepare NA-FGF-loaded N-2-HACC/CMCS microspheres (NA-FGF-N-2-HACC/CMCS MPs). It was well demonstrated that NA-FGF-N-2-HACC/CMCS MPs have great biocompatibility, biostability, and durable drug-release ability. In addition to injectable drug delivery, our prepared microspheres were highly advantageous for oral administration. The in vitro and in vivo experimental results suggested that NA-FGF-N-2-HACC/CMCS MPs could be used as a promising candidate and universal nano-delivery system for both oral and injectable hypoglycemic regulation.
An Experimental Study on the Influence of the Fractal Characteristics of X80 Steel Surface Morphology on Water Ring Stability
Authors: Qi Hongyuan , Hu Juan , Ju Yiyi , Jiang Huayi , Liu Mei
Published: July 2023

The surface morphology of X80 steel with hydrophilic underwater oleophobic characteristic is described greater comprehensively and quantitatively in this work by combining fractal dimension and multifractal. X80 steel with hydrophilic underwater oleophobic surface characteristics was constructed using a chemical etching method. Then, with the aid of three wettability parameters—contact angle, rolling angle, and adhesion work—this study investigated the relationship between the surface fractal dimension of X80 and the stability of the water ring in the core annular flow. The results showed that: (1) the fractal dimension of X80 steel specimens increased first and then decreased with the increase of reaction time. Besides that, the value of it was greater than 2, indicating that the surface had obvious fractal characteristics. The spectral difference, Δf(α), and the spectral width, Δα, supplemented the description of the X80 steel surface morphology, which was consistent with the scanning electron microscope results. (2) When the maximum fractal dimension was 2.0808, the minimum contact angle of distilled water on its surface was 50.2°, and the maximum contact angle of underwater oil droplets was 166.4°. The larger the fractal dimension of X80 steel with hydrophilic underwater oleophobic properties, the more hydrophilic and underwater oleophobic it is. This illustrated that there was a strong binding force between the water and the X80 steel pipe wall, and hence the quality and efficiency of the core annular flow was improved, which was more conducive to the promotion of this technology in the field of heavy oil transportation.
Paleoenvironment Comparison of the Longmaxi and Qiongzhusi Formations, Weiyuan Shale Gas Field, Sichuan Basin
Authors: Zhang Qin , Liang Feng , Zeng Jingbo , Qiu Zhen , Zhou Shangwen , Liu Wen , Kong Weiliang
Published: July 2023

The Lower Cambrian Qiongzhusi formation and the Lower Silurian Longmaxi Formation are the two most important shale strata. Although differences between these two shales have become the focus of current research, a comparative study of the depositional environments has not been performed. Using cores of both Longmaxi and Qiongzhusi formations of well W201, the in situ comparison of the sedimentary environment was realized, and the interference of other factors was eliminated, which made the results more reliable. In this study, 72 samples from both formations were collected from well W201, Weiyuan shale gas field, Sichuan Basin. A systematic study, including total organic carbon (TOC) content, mineral composition, and major/trace elemental analyses, was conducted to elucidate the paleoenvironments of the Qiongzhusi and Longmaxi formations. The results show both formations were deposited in non-sulfidic environments. The depositional conditions of the Longmaxi formation varied from reducing to oxidizing from bottom to top. The detrital flow happened during the deposition of the Qiongzhusi formation, which resulted in three stages of the redox conditions, from anoxic to oxic and then to anoxic from bottom to top of the Qiongzhusi formation. The anoxic conditions of the Qiongzhusi formation were considerably stronger than those of the Longmaxi formation. Both formations were deposited in warm and humid climates. Ratios of Eu/Eu*, Y/Y*, LaN/YbN, light rare earth element (LREE) and heavy rare earth element (HREE) revealed that the Longmaxi formation was primarily controlled by seawater, whereas the Qiongzhusi formation was jointly influenced by seawater and hydrothermal fluid. The organic matter enrichment for the Longmaxi and Qiongzhusi formations was controlled by paleoproductivity and redox conditions. Due to the slightly lower paleoproductivity and influence of detrital input, the degree of organic matter enrichment in the Qiongzhusi formation was lower than that in the Longmaxi formation.
Study on the Influence Mechanism of Air Leakage on Gas Extraction Effect—A Numerical Case Study of the Coal Mine Site in Anhui
Authors: Gao Han , Du Feng , Cheng Xiaoyu , Zhang Jinjie , Zhou Aitao
Published: July 2023

Air leakage in mine gas drainage drilling is a critical factor that affects gas extraction efficiency. It leads to a rapid decline in gas concentration, resulting in lower extraction efficiency and potential secondary disasters. To address this issue, a fully coupled gas–air mixed flow model is established in this study. The model examines the effects of extraction time, different negative pressures, and gas leakage on gas concentration. Additionally, it reveals the mechanism of air leakage around gas drainage boreholes. The simulation data are then compared with field gas drainage monitoring data to verify the reliability of the model. This verification serves as a basis for extraction regulation and control. The results demonstrate that during the later stages of extraction, the negative pressure decreases, causing a decline in gas concentration. Moreover, higher negative pressure leads to increased air inflow into the borehole, thereby reducing gas concentration. Consequently, selecting an appropriate negative pressure is crucial to improve pumping efficiency. The research findings hold significant guidance in achieving efficient gas mining.
Effects of Different Cooking Methods on Glycemic Index, Physicochemical Indexes, and Digestive Characteristics of Two Kinds of Rice
Authors: Yao Feng , Li Chuanpeng , Li Junyang , Chang Guoli , Wang Yuliang , Campardelli Roberta , Perego Patrizia , Cai Chenggang
Published: July 2023

Diets including rice and rice-cooking methods influence digestive processes and blood glucose control. In this research, the effects of three different treatments (high-temperature and low-pressure plasma cooking, high-temperature cooking at atmospheric pressure (traditional method), and high-temperature cooking at high pressure) on the texture, color, molecular structure, infrared spectrum, microstructure, debranching enzyme activity, amylopectin content, glycemic index (GI), and in vitro starch digestibility of two rice varieties were studied. The results showed that the hardness, elasticity, viscosity, and chewability of rice after the high-temperature and low-pressure plasma treatment had no obvious changes compared with the traditional cooking method. A SEM analysis showed that the physical properties of the hydrophilicity on the surface of the rice increased after the high-temperature and low-pressure plasma treatment; the debranching enzyme activity reached 3.88 U/g (Xiantao rice) and 3.81 U/g (Heyuan rice), respectively, the amylose content of raw rice reached 68.77 mg/mL (Xiantao rice) and 64.92 mg/mL (Heyuan rice), which increased by 43.31 mg/mL and 39.46 mg/mL, respectively, and the GI was within the medium glycemic index of 56–69. The resistant starch in the Heyuan and Xiantao rice varieties amounted to 88.60 ± 3.10% and 89.40 ± 3.58%, respectively, after the high-temperature and low-pressure plasma processing method. The results showed positive effects and application potential for the cooking method in respect of diabetic consumers.
Impact of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai Volcanic Eruption on Stratospheric Water Vapour, Temperature, and Ozone
Authors: Basha Ghouse , Ratnam Madineni Venkat , Kumar Alladi Hemanth , Jiang Jonathan H. , Babu Saginela Ravindra , Kishore Pangaluru
Published: July 2023

Despite being rare, large volcanic eruptions can have a long-lasting impact on the chemistry, radiation, and dynamics of the stratosphere. This study attempts to quantify the changes in the stratospheric water vapour and its relationship to temperature and ozone observed from space-based Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) observations during the submarine volcano eruption Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai that occurred on 15 January 2022. The most notable aspect of this eruption is the plumes, which are water vapour columns that reached higher altitudes (1 hPa (47.6 km)) than earlier eruptions. We discovered that the eruption injected a record amount of water vapour (6–8 ppmv) directly into the stratosphere from 38–10 hPa vertically, which is present even after one year. The majority of water vapour is confined to the Southern Hemisphere (SH) tropics, i.e., 30°S to 5°N, and gradually descends to the SH polar latitudes over time. The WV from the lower stratosphere reaches mesospheric altitudes during January 2023. We quantify the impact of increased water vapour on temperature and ozone as well. Temperatures begin to fall during the month of March in the regions where there is an increase in water vapour. A ~5 K cooling occurs in July and August as a result of the thermal adjustment to the extra water vapour IR cooling. Our analysis shows a decrease in ozone caused by an increase in water vapour. Significant variability is observed in all three parameters at 26 km compared to other levels. Further, we noticed that after one year of eruption, the water vapour, Temperature and Ozone did not reach the background values. It is possible that this unusual eruption produced a different atmospheric reaction than other significant volcanic eruptions that have been well investigated.
Influence of the Indian Summer Monsoon on Inter-Annual Variability of the Tibetan-Plateau NDVI in Its Main Growing Season
Authors: Mao Xin , Ren Hong-Li , Liu Ge , Su Baohuang , Sang Yinghan
Published: July 2023

The vegetation on the Tibetan Plateau (TP), as a major component of the land–atmosphere interaction, affects the TP thermal conditions. And, as a direct climatic factor of vegetation, precipitation over the TP is significantly regulated by the Indian summer monsoon (ISM). Using remote-sensing-based vegetation images, meteorological observations, and reanalysis datasets, this study deeply explored the influence of the ISM on vegetation on the TP in its main growing season, where the vegetation on the TP is indicated by the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). The findings reveal that the ISM is a critical external factor impacting the TP vegetation and has a significantly positive correlation with the TP precipitation and NDVI. Corresponding to a strong ISM, the South Asia high moves northwestward toward the TP and Iranian Plateau with an increase in intensity, and the cyclonic circulation develops over the south of the TP in the middle-lower troposphere. This tropospheric circulation structure aids in the transportation of more water vapor to the TP and enhances convection there, which facilitates more precipitation and thus the TP vegetation growth, featuring a uniform NDVI pattern. Since the positive correlation between precipitation over the TP and NDVI is weaker than that between the ISM and NDVI, we suggest that the ISM can influence the TP vegetation growth not only through changing precipitation but also through other local climatic factors. The increased convection and precipitation over the TP induced by the ISM can also affect the surface thermal conditions, featuring an interaction between the TP vegetation and heat sources. The evapotranspiration of vegetation and its coverage affect local latent and sensible heat fluxes, while the TP thermal condition changes affect in return the vegetation growth. In addition, the changes in thermal conditions over the TP caused by the substantial increase in vegetation may have a de-correlation effect on the relationship between the ISM and uniform NDVI pattern after the TP vegetation reaches its maximum coverage.
Seasonal Vegetation Trends for Europe over 30 Years from a Novel Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) Time-Series—The TIMELINE NDVI Product
Authors: Eisfelder Christina , Asam Sarah , Hirner Andreas , Reiners Philipp , Holzwarth Stefanie , Bachmann Martin , Gessner Ursula , Dietz Andreas , Huth Juliane , Bachofer Felix , Kuenzer Claudia
Published: July 2023

Remote sensing multi-decadal time-series provide important information for analysing long-term environmental change. The Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) has been providing data since the early 1980s. Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) time-series derived thereof can be used for monitoring vegetation conditions. This study presents the novel TIMELINE NDVI product, which provides a consistent set of daily, 10-day, and monthly NDVI composites at a 1 km spatial resolution based on AVHRR data for Europe and North Africa, currently spanning the period from 1981 to 2018. After investigating temporal and spatial data availability within the TIMELINE monthly NDVI composite product, seasonal NDVI trends have been derived thereof for the period 1989–2018 to assess long-term vegetation change in Europe and northern Africa. The trend analysis reveals distinct patterns with varying NDVI trends for spring, summer and autumn for different regions in Europe. Integrating the entire growing season, the result shows positive NDVI trends for large areas within Europe that confirm and reinforce previous research. The analyses show that the TIMELINE NDVI product allows long-term vegetation dynamics to be monitored at 1 km resolution on a pan-European scale and the detection of specific regional and seasonal patterns.
Research and the Challenge of Participation—The Experience of the Research Project “Distressed Neighborhoods through the Prism of Youth” (ANR Pop-Part)
Authors: Demoulin Jeanne , Bacqué Marie-Hélène
Published: July 2023

Based on a participatory research project on the practices and representations of young people in distressed neighborhoods, this article examines the contributions and limitations of a participatory approach in terms of scientific production. How does participation affect social science research? How does it challenge methodological and epistemological principles, knowledge building, and the nature of that knowledge? To what extent is it heuristically stimulating from this point of view?
Applying the 12 Principles of Green Engineering in Low TRL Electronics: A Case Study of an Energy-Harvesting Platform
Authors: Doyle Lucía , Cavero German , Modreanu Mircea
Published: July 2023

Energy harvesting has been identified as a key enabling technology for the Internet of Things as it allows a battery-less functioning of electronic devices. While the use of ambient sources of energy is commonly seen as sustainable due to their renewable nature, raw material consumption and recyclability need to be assessed to ensure true sustainability. This is especially relevant in electronics, due to their high complexity stemming from the variety of components and materials in their composition. This work presents the case study of the application of the 12 Principles of Green Engineering to an energy-harvesting platform in the early technology development phase. Specifically, the technological areas of design for disassembly, materials for substitution, fabrication efficiency, and manufacturing processes that enable the use of recycled materials have been evaluated. This has allowed us to identify hazardous raw materials and recommend their substitution. Further recommendations include the adoption of mechanical fixtures to fasten lump components. Additional strategies have been identified but their application has been found out of reach of the technology developers, such as the increase in the manufacturing batch size or the inclusion of solvent recycling, which can only be implemented at larger manufacturing scales. Further strategies, such as the use of recycled Si wafers or dry adhesives as fixtures, represent future solutions for the reduction in the environmental impact which require further R&D efforts from different disciplines. This highlights the need for holistic and multidisciplinary research efforts to fully achieve the circular design.
Service-Learning as an Approach to Educating for Sustainable Development
Authors: Aramburuzabala Pilar , Cerrillo Rosario
Published: July 2023

Higher education has an essential role in the promotion of sustainable development. For this to be possible, the use of methodologies in accordance with principles of sustainability must be fostered. This article theoretically analyzes the characteristics that make service-learning an effective tool in education for sustainable development. In order to understand the challenges involved in its implementation in higher education, first of all, the concepts of sustainable development and sustainability are defined. Next, the use of education for sustainable development and curricular sustainability in higher education is contextualized. Finally, the pedagogical proposal of service-learning is addressed and linked to the principles of sustainability in the university environment. To conclude, in relation to prospective applications of service-learning, it is argued that it is an optimal methodology to educate about, for, and from sustainability and that its institutionalization in higher education is highly desirable.
Research on Energy Management Method of Fuel Cell/Supercapacitor Hybrid Trams Based on Optimal Hydrogen Consumption
Authors: Bu Qingyuan , Zhang Shiwei , Ma Ning , Luo Qinghe , Sun Baigang
Published: July 2023

In this paper, based on the operating states and characteristics of fuel cell/supercapacitor hybrid trams, an optimal hydrogen energy management method is proposed. This method divides the operating states into two parts: traction state and non-traction state. In the traction state, the real-time loss function of the hybrid power system, which is used to obtain the fuel cell optimal output power under the different demand powers and supercapacitor voltage, is established. In the non-traction state, the constant-power charging method, which is obtained by solving the power-voltage charging model, is used to ensure the supercapacitor voltage of the beginning-state and the end-state in an entire operation cycle are the same. The RT-LAB simulation platform is used to verify that the proposed method has the ability to control the hybrid real-time system. Using the comparative experiment between the proposed method and power-follow method, the results show that the proposed method offers a significant improvement in both fuel cell output stability and hydrogen consumption in a full operation cycle.
Building Information Modeling and Building Performance Simulation-Based Decision Support Systems for Improved Built Heritage Operation
Authors: Massafra Angelo , Costantino Carlo , Predari Giorgia , Gulli Riccardo
Published: July 2023

Adapting outdated building stocks’ operations to meet current environmental and economic demands poses significant challenges that, to be faced, require a shift toward digitalization in the architecture, engineering, construction, and operation sectors. Digital tools capable of acquiring, structuring, sharing, processing, and visualizing built assets’ data in the form of knowledge need to be conceptualized and developed to inform asset managers in decision-making and strategic planning. This paper explores how building information modeling and building performance simulation technologies can be integrated into digital decision support systems (DSS) to make building data accessible and usable by non-digital expert operators through user-friendly services. The method followed to develop the digital DSS is illustrated and then demonstrated with a simulation-based application conducted on the heritage case study of the Faculty of Engineering in Bologna, Italy. The analysis allows insights into the building’s energy performance at the space and hour scale and explores its relationship with the planned occupancy through a data visualization approach. In addition, the conceptualization of the DSS within a digital twin vision lays the foundations for future extensions to other technologies and data, including, for example, live sensor measurements, occupant feedback, and forecasting algorithms.
Remediation of Heavy Metal (Cu, Pb) Contaminated Fine Soil Using Stabilization with Limestone and Livestock Bone Powder
Authors: Moon Deok Hyun , An Jinsung , Park Sang Hyeop , Koutsospyros Agamemnon
Published: July 2023

Soil environments contaminated with heavy metals by typhoon flooding require immediate remediation. High-pressure soil washing using water could be a viable short-term solution for cleaning soil contaminated with heavy metals. Soil washing employing high-pressure generates heavy metal contaminated fine soil and wastewater. This contaminated fine soil cannot be reused without proper treatment because of the high levels of heavy metal contamination. Stabilization was used for immobilizing heavy metals (Cu, Pb) in the contaminated fine soil. The stabilizing agents used for immobilizing heavy metals (Cu, Pb) in the contaminated fine soil included two types of limestone (Ca-LS and Mg-LS) and livestock bone powder (LSBP). The Ca-LS, Mg-LS, and LSBP were applied to the contaminated fine soil at dosages in the range of 2 wt%~10 wt%. Two different particle sizes (-#10 vs. -#20 mesh) and curing times (1 week vs. 4 weeks) were used to compare the effectiveness of the stabilization. Extractions using 0.1 N HCl were conducted to evaluate the stabilization effectiveness. Heavy metal leachability was significantly decreased with higher Ca-LS and LSBP dosages. The LSBP treatment was more effective than the Ca-LS and Mg-LS treatments and the Mg-LS showed the poorest performance. The highest degree of immobilization was attained using a 10 wt% LSBP (-#20 mesh), resulting in an approximate leachability reduction of 99% for Pb and 92% for Cu. The -#20 mesh material and 4 weeks of curing were more effective than the -#10 mesh material and 1 week of curing, respectively. The SEM-EDX results showed that metal precipitates and pyromorphite like phases could be responsible for effective heavy metal immobilization. This study suggests that Ca-LS and LSBP used at an optimum dosage can be effective stabilizing agents for immobilizing Cu and Pb in contaminated fine soils.
The Progress and Prospects in the Scenario Simulation Research on the Sustainability of Regional Ecosystem Services Based on a “Safe Operating Space”
Authors: Zhang Xiuquan , Fang Xuening
Published: July 2023

Integrating scenarios and models to assess the sustainability of future regional ecosystem services is at the forefront of ecosystem service science. However, there are a lack of comprehensive reviews on this topic. Therefore, this study provides a systematic review of the research progress considering two aspects: ecosystem service scenario simulation and sustainability assessments based on the concept of a “safe operating space.” We found that (1) a number of studies have already started to explore methods for evaluating the sustainability of future ecosystem services; (2) in terms of scenario construction methods, most existing studies have adopted the global classical scenario downscaling approach, while less consideration has been given to the important socio-economic-environmental characteristics of a region itself, which affect the credibility and policy relevance of scenarios; and (3) in terms of sustainability simulation evaluation, most existing studies are qualitative comparisons of the sustainability of ecosystem services within different scenarios, while quantitative methods are lacking. We proposed an approach that combined participatory scenario construction and a regional safe operating space to address the above identified challenges. Successfully implementing this research approach would provide decision makers with more accurate and practical early warning information regarding the sustainability of future ecosystem services.
Industry 4.0 Framework Based on Organizational Diagnostics and Plan–Do–Check–Act Cycle for the Saudi Arabian Cement Sector
Authors: Mahnashi Ibrahim , Salah Bashir , Ragab Adham E.
Published: July 2023

Industry 4.0 (I4.0) is an extension to the three stages of industry that reshapes it into a combination of physical and digital worlds. The I4.0 paradigm shift coupled with emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the internet of things (IoT), autonomous vehicles, and digital twins (DTs), have brought and will continue to bring profound changes that impact entire systems across all industries. Despite I4.0’s many advantages, it also brings a host of problems and disruptions. These problems and disruptions must be identified to maximize its potential. Saudi Arabia is undergoing significant transformation as it has initiated several plans to develop the industrial sector and enhance its contribution to the national economy. Despite Saudi Arabia’s 2030 vision, the industrial sector has still not fully grasped the breadth and depth of the new revolution due to its novelty. This is particularly true in the cement industry, one of the most vital industries in the region. Due to its many unique systemic complexities, the cement industry has faced numerous challenges due to the lack of a comprehensive framework for mitigating disruptions and leveraging I4.0 benefits. Accordingly, the paper conducts an exploratory study on I4.0 for Saudi Arabian cement companies. Therefore, this paper provides an overview of I4.0 for Saudi Arabia’s cement companies. The paper analyzes key findings and proposes a plan–do–check–act (PDCA) framework for I4.0 implementation based on a system thinking approach to guide cement companies to strategically embrace the new phenomenon and maximize their key performance indicators.
Examine an Intelligence Education Framework of Landscape Architecture (EFLA) Based on Network Model of Technology in Landscape Architecture (NMTLA)
Authors: Ge Mengting , Kong Jie , Yang Qiuyi , Chen Mingze , Wang Wenji
Published: July 2023

The discipline of Landscape Architecture (LA) is currently expanding its disciplinary boundary. The supporting Technology in LA (TLA) is always evolving and optimized to solve environmental problems. Considering the uncertain classification of the current LA knowledge for education and the importance of technology in LA education, a refined education framework of LA is needed. This research first established a Network Model of Technology in LA (NMTLA) using Network Analysis (NA) and expert interviews. Then, this research proposed an Education Framework of LA (EFLA) based on the NMTLA. To build the NMTLA, this research identified 23 key categories of TLA through content analysis of secondary research. Then, the expert interview and network theory were used to analyze and visualize the relationships among the categories. By examining the degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality of different TLA, this study developed an EFLA which summarizes the twenty-three categories of TLA into four domains: core techniques, applied technologies, integrated technologies, and specific technologies. This study also proposes a series of suggestions for how to apply different categories of TLA in today’s and future LA education. The proposed NMTLA and EFLA in this research can contribute to the development of future LA higher education. They also can potentially address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in LA education and industry. However, the scope of this study is currently limited to LA education in the USA, which could be expanded to include a worldwide perspective in future research. To enhance the validity of the conclusions, a larger sample size for interviews should be employed in further studies.
Gender Representation and Leadership in Local Transport Decision-Making Positions
Authors: Hiselius Lena Winslott , Kronsell Annica , Rosqvist Lena Smidfelt , Dymén Christian , Stepanova Olga
Published: July 2023

This paper aims to analyse and further capture nuances of gender representation in local political decision-making bodies, focusing on implications for transport policy. Since gender is highly relevant for both attitudes towards transport policy as well as political votes, data on the gender and political colour of executives (members of presidiums) of transport-related committees, councils, and boards is analysed. The study is aimed at the local level, since municipal transport policy decisions include areas with clear differences between masculinity and femininity norms. The mapping of representation reveals, in line with other studies, that women are underrepresented in the most leading position (as chairperson of the City Board 31–37%), and that presidiums of transport-related committees, especially, are highly dominated by men (72–74%) with no clear positive trend in female representation identified over the studied years. The result suggests that transport-related decisions are disproportionally shaped by men as well as masculine norms, with implications for the transition towards transport sustainability.
The Evaluation of Snow Depth Simulated by Different Land Surface Models in China Based on Station Observations
Authors: Sun Shuai , Shi Chunxiang , Liang Xiao , Zhang Shuai , Gu Junxia , Han Shuai , Jiang Hui , Xu Bin , Yu Qingbo , Liang Yujing , Deng Shuai
Published: July 2023

Snow plays an important role in catastrophic weather, climate change, and water recycling. In order to analyze the ability of different land surface models to simulate snow depth in China, we used atmospheric forcing data from the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) Land Data Assimilation System (CLDAS) to drive the CLM3.5 (the Community Land Model version 3.5), Noah (NCEP, OSU, Air Force and Office of Hydrology Land Surface Model), and Noah-MP (the community Noah land surface model with multi-parameterization options) land surface models. We also used 2380 daily snow-depth site observations of CMA to analyze the simulation effects of different models on the snow depth in China and different regions during the periods of snow accumulation and snowmelt from 2015 to 2019. The results show that CLM3.5, Noah, and Noah-MP can simulate the spatial distribution of the snow depth in China, but there are some differences between the models. In particular, the snow depth and snow cover simulated by CLM3.5 are lower than those simulated by Noah and Noah-MP in Northwest China and the Tibetan Plateau. From the overall quantitative assessment results for China, the snow depth simulated by CLM3.5 is underestimated, while that simulated by Noah is overestimated. Noah-MP has the best overall performance; for example, the biases of the three models during the snow-accumulation periods are −0.22 cm, 0.27 cm, and 0.15 cm, respectively. Furthermore, the three models perform differently in the three snowpack regions of Northeast China, Northwest China, and the Tibetan Plateau; Noah-MP has the best snow-depth performance in Northeast China, while CLM3.5 has the best snow-depth performance in the Tibetan Plateau region. Noah-MP performs best in the snow-accumulation period, and Noah performs best in the snowmelt period for Northwest China. In conclusion, no single model can perform optimally for snow simulations in different regions of China and at different times of the year, and the multi-model integration of snow may be an effective way to obtain high-quality snow simulation results. So this study provides some scientific references for the spatiotemporal evolution of snow in the context of climate change, monitoring and analysis of snow, the study of land surface models for snow, and the sustainable development and utilization of snow resources in China and other regions.
The Numerical Simulation of the Pressure Law and Control of the Hard Roof Face in the Far Field
Authors: Wei Yuyang , Jiang Minzheng , Zhao Xinyu , Zhao Xinrui , Dong Kangxing
Published: July 2023

Controlling hard roof plate breakage and destabilization to ensure a sufficient mine pressure is difficult using conventional underground pressure relief methods, since it is located far above the coal seam. This paper investigated the ground fracturing technology used to control the mine pressure at the working face caused by hard top collapse, using the working face of Tashan 8106 as an example. Finite element software and its global embedded cohesive unit approach, the fluid–structure coupling theory, and the fracture mechanics theory were used to construct a numerical calculation model of hydraulic fracturing during coal rock excavation. The calculation results revealed an initial hard top plate pressure before the fracturing of about 52 m, while the error rate of the initial pressure step was 0.07% compared to the actual measurement results, verifying the simulation’s accuracy. At a prefabricated fracture spacing of 16 m, the initial incoming pressure step distance was reduced from 52 m to 24 m after the hard roof surface fracturing, while the peak vertical stress at the coal seam working face decreased by 40.59%. It effectively reduced the mine pressure at the working face caused by the cross fall of the roof, which was more conducive to safe mining. The research in this paper provides theoretical guidance for the control procedures of these types of roof slabs.
Mind the Gender Gap in Marine Recreational Fisheries
Authors: Pita Pablo , Ainsworth Gillian Barbara , Alba Bernardino , Alós Josep , Beiro José , Martín-Sosa Pablo , Martínez Llibori , Marugán-Pintos Begoña , Morales-Nin Beatriz , Mugerza Estanis , Nieto Beatriz , Seijo Javier , Pujol Marta , Tubío Ana , Venerus Leonardo A. , Villasante Sebastian
Published: July 2023

One of the most relevant information gaps in worldwide fisheries is related to the origin and consequences of the gender gap. Recreational fisheries show a remarkable gender gap, which has been especially poorly addressed in the scientific literature. In 2021, the Spanish Working Group on Marine Recreational Fishing (MRF) developed a broad diagnosis on the participation of women in MRF and agreed on a roadmap to address negative impacts derived from the gender gap. The network experts concluded that there is an urgent need to include the gender gap in the agendas of scientists, fishery managers, policy-makers, stakeholder organizations, and civil society. There is a need to better understand the gender-related socio-ecological impacts of MRF to improve fisheries governance and to develop policies and initiatives that facilitate the full access of women to the benefits derived from the practice of MRF. Establishing economic incentives, increasing the visibility of female success references, developing fishing-related programs specifically designed for girls, and promoting the perception of MRF as a family leisure activity in contact with nature will increase women’s engagement.
Stimulating Circular Urban Regeneration through Cultural and Sustainable Communities: The Proposal for a Green Blue Youth Vision 2030
Authors: Bosone Martina , Casola Maria , Daldanise Gaia , Vito Domenico
Published: July 2023

In the European context, culture has a key role in sustainable development strategies. Within the framework of the UNESCO Culture 2030 Agenda, new cultural approaches support sustainable policies by affecting individual and collective behavior towards interpreting sustainability as a ‘common good’. This paper aims to define innovative sustainability strategies from the perspectives of younger generations, in order to understand the transformative potential of new cultural approaches to sustainability and common goods in achieving the Agenda 2030 goals. The ‘Green Blue Youth Vision 2030’ approach analyses the different multidimensional components of possible innovative cultural alternatives by emphasizing the potential of the proposals from young people. The initial results consist of defining “Green Blue Youth Vision 2030” proposals collected during the co-design roundtables, and analyzing key results from a survey on the direct and potential beneficiaries of the Green Blue Days project in Southern Italy. In conclusion, the research allows for preliminary reflections on the definition, by the new generations, of a new way of understanding sustainability as a common good, oriented towards overcoming cultural, economic, environmental, and social conflicts to stimulate circular urban regeneration in Southern Italy.
Enhancing Multifunctionality in Agricultural Landscapes with Native Woody Vegetation
Authors: Eggers James , Davis Shannon , Doscher Crile , Gregorini Pablo
Published: July 2023

The re-integration of native woody vegetation within agricultural areas has the potential to support multifunctional productive landscapes that enhance livestock welfare and restore habitat for native wildlife. As there is minimal research on this issue in Aotearoa New Zealand, this study aimed to identify species of native woody vegetation and propose spatial configurations and site designs to increase multifunctionality on a case study site. The three components of a multifunctional agricultural landscape focused on in this study were (1) enhancing foraging opportunities for livestock, (2) optimizing shade and shelter, and (3) establishing native bush bird habitat. During the first phase, sixty-three suitable species were identified and assigned scores based on the primary objectives and site constraints. This produced four optimized plant lists, one each for the three multifunctional components identified above and one combined multifunctional list incorporating those scores with additional environment and soil scores. The second phase used design thinking methodology to strategically locate these plants within an established case study site. Nine different planting configurations (three for each multifunctional component) were proposed and then, informed by site-specific opportunities and constraints, located on the case study site to produce three individual site designs. Finally, these three site designs were combined to propose an exemplar of a multifunctional agricultural landscape. The results indicate that reintegrating native woody vegetation has the potential to contribute toward multifunctional agricultural landscapes, proposing species and spatial layouts from which further investigation into livestock foraging, increased shade and shelter, and restoration of bush bird habitat can follow. This research advances sustainable land management practices by offering valuable insights into future agricultural landscape design.
Fourth-Order Emden–Fowler Neutral Differential Equations: Investigating Some Qualitative Properties of Solutions
Authors: Alatwi Mansour , Moaaz Osama , Askar Sameh S. , Alshamrani Ahmad M. , Elabbasy Elmetwally M.
Published: July 2023

In this article, we investigate some of the qualitative properties of a class of fourth-order neutral differential equations. We start by obtaining new inequalities and relations between the solution and its corresponding function, as well as with its derivatives. The new relations allow us to improve the monotonic and asymptotic properties of the positive solutions of the studied equation. Then, using an improved approach, we establish new criteria that test the oscillation of all solutions. We also rely on the principle of symmetry between positive and negative solutions to obtain the new criteria. The paper provides illustrative examples that highlight the significance of our findings.