bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lineages of Fractal Genera Comprise the 88-Million-Year Steel Evolutionary Spine of the Ecosphere
Authors: Zander Richard H.
Published: June 2024

Fractal evolution is apparently effective in selectively preserving environmentally resilient traits for more than 80 million years in Streptotrichaceae (Bryophyta). An analysis simulated maximum destruction of ancestral traits in that large lineage. The constraints enforced were the preservation of newest ancestral traits, and all immediate descendant species obtained different new traits. Maximum character state changes in ancestral traits were 16 percent of all possible traits in any one sub-lineage, or 73 percent total of the entire lineage. Results showed, however, that only four ancestral traits were permanently eliminated in any one lineage or sub-lineage. A lineage maintains maximum biodiversity of temporally and regionally survival-effective traits at minimum expense to resilience across a geologic time of 88 million years for the group studied. Similar processes generating an extant punctuated equilibrium as bursts of about four descendants per genus and one genus per 1–2 epochs are possible in other living groups given similar emergent processes. The mechanism is considered complexity-related, the lineage being a self-organized emergent phenomenon strongly maintained in the ecosphere by natural selection on fractal genera.
Geographic Location Affects the Bacterial Community Composition and Diversity More than Species Identity for Tropical Tree Species
Authors: Ji Kepeng , Wei Yaqing , Lan Guoyu
Published: June 2024

Microorganisms associated with plants play a crucial role in their growth, development, and overall health. However, much remains unclear regarding the relative significance of tree species identity and spatial variation in shaping the distribution of plant bacterial communities across large tropical regions, as well as how these communities respond to environmental changes. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the characteristics of bacterial community composition in association with two rare and endangered tropical tree species, Dacrydium pectinatum and Vatica mangachapoi, across various geographical locations on Hainan Island. Our findings can be summarized as follows: (1) Significant differences existed in the bacterial composition between D. pectinatum and V. mangachapoi, as observed in the diversity of bacterial populations within the root endosphere. Plant host-related variables, such as nitrogen content, emerged as key drivers influencing leaf bacterial community compositions, underscoring the substantial impact of plant identity on bacterial composition. (2) Environmental factors associated with geographical locations, including temperature and soil pH, predominantly drove changes in both leaf and root-associated bacterial community compositions. These findings underscored the influence of geographical locations on shaping plant-associated bacterial communities. (3) Further analysis revealed that geographical locations exerted a greater influence than tree species identity on bacterial community compositions and diversity. Overall, our study underscores that environmental variables tied to geographical location primarily dictate changes in plant bacterial community composition. These insights contribute to our understanding of microbial biogeography in tropical regions and carry significant implications for the conservation of rare and endangered tropical trees.
Preparation of Quick-Dissolving Nanofiber Face Masks Based on Needleless Electrostatic Spinning
Authors: Hu Jingyi , Chen Xiaojie , Jiang Jianmin , Mai Renbiao , Wang Han , Xu Qiming , Zhang Ting
Published: June 2024

As the global facial mask market continues to grow, consumers have put forward higher requirements for the functionality and ingredients of mask products. Ordinary facial masks mostly use ordinary non-woven fabrics as the mask base fabric and are used with essence. Preservatives are generally added. At the same time, they are susceptible to the influence of the external environment and are easily oxidized, causing the mask to deteriorate and cause skin allergic reactions. In addition, traditional facial masks have problems such as poor fit with the skin, poor breathability, insufficient absorption of nutrient solutions, and easy dripping. The high specific surface area and high porosity of a nanofiber mask prepared by electrospinning technology are beneficial to the skin’s absorption of nutrients, and it has good fit with the skin and strong breathability. A unique advantage of this nanofiber mask is that it uses spray. After the mask is sprayed with water or essence, the water-soluble polymer within it can be quickly dissolved, saving a lot of time. Nanofiber facial mask products can effectively solve consumer pain points and are conducive to the high-end development of facial masks. Therefore, this article combines needleless electrospinning technology to develop a new solid-state, preservative-free, quick-dissolving nanofiber facial mask that can be prepared on a large scale. Based on needleless electrospinning technology, this article deeply explores the process parameters and their influencing mechanisms for preparing nanofiber, quick-dissolving facial masks to achieve the stable preparation of nanofiber facial masks with the best morphology; a comprehensive analysis of the structure and influence of nanofiber facial masks from micro and macro perspectives demonstrates their performance and allows evaluation of them. The experimental results show that the mask morphology is optimal under the process conditions of using a spinning liquid of 20% collagen peptide solution, a spinning voltage of 30 kV, a collection distance of 19 cm, and a liquid supply speed of 130 mL/h.
A New Class of Chiral Polyethers and Polyesters Based on the [2.2]Paracyclophane Scaffold
Authors: Kern Patrick , Tappert Henrik , Bräse Stefan
Published: June 2024

Over the past decades, the research on optically active polymers (OAPs) has significantly grown, and extensive studies have been carried out on their syntheses, conformations, and applications. The most commonly used OAPs are based on natural products such as sugars or amino acids, which limits their scope. A broader range of applications can be achieved by synthesizing lab-tailored monomers, which allow precise control over structure and properties. This research developed a four-step synthetic route to a previously unreported chiral [2.2]paracyclophane-based epoxide monomer. An aluminum catalyst and an alkylammonium initiating system were applied and optimized for its polymerization to provide access to a novel class of chiral polyethers. Furthermore, we demonstrated the copolymerization viability of the (4-[2.2]paracyclophanyl)oxirane monomer using phthalic anhydride.
Enhanced Lithium-Ion Transport in Lithium Metal Batteries Using ZSM-5 Nanosheets Hybridized Solid Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Hu Xiaoyan , Liu Jialiang , Zhang Baoquan
Published: June 2024

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are the key components of lithium metal batteries to overcome the obstacle of insecurity in conventional liquid electrolytes; however, the trade-off between their ionic conductivity and mechanical properties remains a significant challenge. In this work, two-dimensional ZSM-5 nanosheets as fillers are incorporated into a poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) matrix and lithium salts to obtain composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs). The improved physicochemical and electrochemical properties of the CPE membranes are characterized in full detail. Stripping/plating measurements in symmetric Li/Li cells and cyclic charge/discharge tests are performed to investigate the cyclability and stability of the CPEs. All-solid-state LiFePO4/Li batteries deliver excellent cycling performance with an initial discharge capacity of 152.3 mAh g−1 and 91.4% capacity retention after 200 cycles at 0.2 C, with a discharge specific capacity of 118.8 mAh g−1 remaining after 350 cycles at 0.5 C. Therefore, CPEs containing ZSM-5 nanosheets are a promising option for all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries.
Responsibility over Rules: A Confucian-Inspired Approach to Post-Comparative Ethics
Authors: D’Ambrosio Paul
Published: June 2024

As cultures become increasingly involved, attempts are made to find productive lines along which ethical understandings can be developed which respect diversity and yet go beyond simplistic comparisons. Much of the discussion in this area is squarely situated within existing religious or philosophical frameworks—and these, in turn, are in the aggregate decidedly based on Western traditions. This paper proposes a philosophical-religious reading of Confucianism, especially with respect to its appreciation of ethical responsibility based on the importance of community, tradition, and norms, as a foundation for developing post comparative ethical approaches. The majority of the paper is centered on reading of responsibility in early Confucian texts which challenges the assumptions of contemporary academic philosophy (as practiced in classrooms, journals, and conferences) and fits into a decidedly Chinese way of thinking about religion that can be used to go beyond simplistic comparisons. This offers, in terms of both the approach being used and the specific content, an avenue for constructing post-comparative understandings of ethics.
Source Models of the 2016 and 2022 Menyuan Earthquakes and Their Tectonic Implications Revealed by InSAR
Authors: Bai Xixuan , Zhang Bingqiang , Guo Aizhi , Yan Yi , Xu Hao , Bian Xiaoya , Zhan Shuwen , Chen Jiangcheng
Published: June 2024

The Haiyuan fault system plays a crucial role in accommodating the eastward expansion of the Tibetan Plateau (TP) and is currently slipping at a rate of several centimeters per year. However, limited seismic activities have been observed using geodetic techniques in this area, impeding the comprehensive investigation into regional tectonics. In this study, the geometric structure and source models of the 2022 Mw 6.7 and the 2016 Mw 5.9 Menyuan earthquakes were investigated using Sentinel-1A SAR images. By implementing an atmospheric error correction method, the signal-to-noise ratio of the 2016 interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) coseismic deformation field was significantly improved, enabling InSAR observations with higher accuracy. The results showed that the reliability of the source models for those events was improved following the reduction in observation errors. The Coulomb stress resulting from the 2016 event may have promoted the strike-slip movement of the western segment of the Lenglongling fault zone, potentially expediting the occurrence of the 2022 earthquake. The coseismic slip distribution and the spatial distribution of aftershocks of the 2022 event suggested that the seismogenic fault may connect the western segment of the Lenglongling fault (LLLF) and the eastern segment of the Tuolaishan fault (TLSF). Additionally, the western segment of the surface rupture zone of the northern branch may terminate in the secondary branch close to the Sunan-Qilian fault (SN-QL) strike direction, and the earthquake may have triggered deep aftershocks and accelerated stress release within the deep seismogenic fault.
Application of Machine Learning Methods to Investigate Joint Load in Agility on the Football Field: Creating the Model, Part I
Authors: Benjaminse Anne , Nijmeijer Eline M. , Gokeler Alli , Di Paolo Stefano
Published: June 2024

Laboratory studies have limitations in screening for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk due to their lack of ecological validity. Machine learning (ML) methods coupled with wearable sensors are state-of-art approaches for joint load estimation outside the laboratory in athletic tasks. The aim of this study was to investigate ML approaches in predicting knee joint loading during sport-specific agility tasks. We explored the possibility of predicting high and low knee abduction moments (KAMs) from kinematic data collected in a laboratory setting through wearable sensors and of predicting the actual KAM from kinematics. Xsens MVN Analyze and Vicon motion analysis, together with Bertec force plates, were used. Talented female football (soccer) players (n = 32, age 14.8 ± 1.0 y, height 167.9 ± 5.1 cm, mass 57.5 ± 8.0 kg) performed unanticipated sidestep cutting movements (number of trials analyzed = 1105). According to the findings of this technical note, classification models that aim to identify the players exhibiting high or low KAM are preferable to the ones that aim to predict the actual peak KAM magnitude. The possibility of classifying high versus low KAMs during agility with good approximation (AUC 0.81–0.85) represents a step towards testing in an ecologically valid environment.
Accelerated Stochastic Variance Reduction Gradient Algorithms for Robust Subspace Clustering
Authors: Liu Hongying , Yang Linlin , Zhang Longge , Shang Fanhua , Liu Yuanyuan , Wang Lijun
Published: June 2024

Robust face clustering enjoys a wide range of applications for gate passes, surveillance systems and security analysis in embedded sensors. Nevertheless, existing algorithms have limitations in finding accurate clusters when data contain noise (e.g., occluded face clustering and recognition). It is known that in subspace clustering, the ℓ1- and ℓ2-norm regularizers can improve subspace preservation and connectivity, respectively, and the elastic net regularizer (i.e., the mixture of the ℓ1- and ℓ2-norms) provides a balance between the two properties. However, existing deterministic methods have high per iteration computational complexities, making them inapplicable to large-scale problems. To address this issue, this paper proposes the first accelerated stochastic variance reduction gradient (RASVRG) algorithm for robust subspace clustering. We also introduce a new momentum acceleration technique for the RASVRG algorithm. As a result of the involvement of this momentum, the RASVRG algorithm achieves both the best oracle complexity and the fastest convergence rate, and it reaches higher efficiency in practice for both strongly convex and not strongly convex models. Various experimental results show that the RASVRG algorithm outperformed existing state-of-the-art methods with elastic net and ℓ1-norm regularizers in terms of accuracy in most cases. As demonstrated on real-world face datasets with different manually added levels of pixel corruption and occlusion situations, the RASVRG algorithm achieved much better performance in terms of accuracy and robustness.
A Context-Aware Navigation Framework for Ground Robots in Horticultural Environments
Authors: Jin Peiqi , Li Tongxiang , Pan Yaoqiang , Hu Kewei , Xu Nuo , Ying Wei , Jin Yangwen , Kang Hanwen
Published: June 2024

Environmental mapping and robot navigation are the basis for realizing robot automation in modern agricultural production. This study proposes a new autonomous mapping and navigation method for gardening scene robots. First, a new LiDAR slam-based semantic mapping algorithm is proposed to enable the robots to analyze structural information from point cloud images and generate roadmaps from them. Secondly, a general robot navigation framework is proposed to enable the robot to generate the shortest global path according to the road map, and consider the local terrain information to find the optimal local path to achieve safe and efficient trajectory tracking; this method is equipped in apple orchards. The LiDAR was evaluated on a differential drive robotic platform. Experimental results show that this method can effectively process orchard environmental information. Compared with vnf and pointnet++, the semantic information extraction efficiency and time are greatly improved. The map feature extraction time can be reduced to 0.1681 s, and its MIoU is 0.812. The resulting global path planning achieved a 100% success rate, with an average run time of 4ms. At the same time, the local path planning algorithm can effectively generate safe and smooth trajectories to execute the global path, with an average running time of 36 ms.
Efficacy of the Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Multisensory Triage-HF Algorithm in Heart Failure Care: A Real-World Clinical Experience
Authors: Aslan Ugur , Beeres Saskia L. M. A. , Feijen Michelle , Mulder Gerlinde M. , Jukema J. Wouter , Egorova Anastasia D.
Published: June 2024

Heart failure (HF) admissions are burdensome, and the mainstay of prevention is the timely detection of impending fluid retention, creating a window for medical treatment intensification. This study evaluated the accuracy and performance of a Triage-HF-guided carepath in real-world ambulatory HF patients in daily clinical practice. In this prospective, observational study, 92 adult HF patients (71 males (78%), with a median age of 69 [IQR 59–75] years) with the Triage-HF algorithm activated in their cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), were monitored. Following high-risk alerts, an HF nurse contacted patients to identify signs and symptoms of fluid retention. The sensitivity and specificity were 83% and 97%, respectively. The positive predictive value was 89%, and negative predictive value was 94%. The unexplained alert rate was 0.05 alerts/patient year, and the false negative rate was 0.11 alerts/patient year. Ambulatory diuretics were initiated or escalated in 77% of high-risk alert episodes. In 23% (n = 6), admission was ultimately required. The median alert handling time was 2 days. Fifty-eight percent (n = 18) of high-risk alerts were classified as true positives in the first week, followed by 29% in the second–third weeks (n = 9), and 13% (n = 4) in the fourth–sixth weeks. Common sensory triggers included an elevated night ventricular rate (84%), OptiVol (71%), and reduced patient activity (71%). The CIED-based Triage-HF algorithm-driven carepath enables the timely detection of impending fluid retention in a contemporary ambulatory setting, providing an opportunity for clinical action.
Urban Pedestrian Routes’ Accessibility Assessment Using Geographic Information System Processing and Deep Learning-Based Object Detection
Authors: Martínez-Chao Tomás E. , Menéndez-Díaz Agustín , García-Cortés Silverio , D’Agostino Pierpaolo
Published: June 2024

The need to establish safe, accessible, and inclusive pedestrian routes is considered one of the European Union’s main priorities. We have developed a method of assessing pedestrian mobility in the surroundings of urban public buildings to evaluate the level of accessibility and inclusion, especially for people with reduced mobility. In the first stage of assessment, artificial intelligence algorithms were used to identify pedestrian crossings and the precise geographical location was determined by deep learning-based object detection with satellite or aerial orthoimagery. In the second stage, Geographic Information System techniques were used to create network models. This approach enabled the verification of the level of accessibility for wheelchair users in the selected study area and the identification of the most suitable route for wheelchair transit between two points of interest. The data obtained were verified using inertial sensors to corroborate the horizontal continuity of the routes. The study findings are of direct benefit to the users of these routes and are also valuable for the entities responsible for ensuring and maintaining the accessibility of pedestrian routes.
Theoretical Study of Microwires with an Inhomogeneous Magnetic Structure Using Magnetoimpedance Tomography
Authors: Buznikov Nikita A. , Kurlyandskaya Galina V.
Published: June 2024

The recently proposed magnetoimpedance tomography method is based on the analysis of the frequency dependences of the impedance measured at different external magnetic fields. The method allows one to analyze the distribution of magnetic properties over the cross-section of the ferromagnetic conductor. Here, we describe the example of theoretical study of the magnetoimpedance effect in an amorphous microwire with inhomogeneous magnetic structure. In the framework of the proposed model, it is assumed that the microwire cross-section consists of several regions with different features of the effective anisotropy. The distribution of the electromagnetic fields and the microwire impedance are found by an analytical solution of Maxwell equations in the particular regions. The field and frequency dependences of the microwire impedance are analyzed taking into account the frequency dependence of the permeability values in the considered regions. Although the calculations are given for the case of amorphous microwires, the obtained results can be useful for the development of the magnetoimpedance tomography method adaptation for different types of ferromagnetic conductors.
Creating Expressive Social Robots That Convey Symbolic and Spontaneous Communication
Authors: Fernández-Rodicio Enrique , Castro-González Álvaro , Gamboa-Montero Juan José , Carrasco-Martínez Sara , Salichs Miguel A.
Published: June 2024

Robots are becoming an increasingly important part of our society and have started to be used in tasks that require communicating with humans. Communication can be decoupled in two dimensions: symbolic (information aimed to achieve a particular goal) and spontaneous (displaying the speaker’s emotional and motivational state) communication. Thus, to enhance human–robot interactions, the expressions that are used have to convey both dimensions. This paper presents a method for modelling a robot’s expressiveness as a combination of these two dimensions, where each of them can be generated independently. This is the first contribution of our work. The second contribution is the development of an expressiveness architecture that uses predefined multimodal expressions to convey the symbolic dimension and integrates a series of modulation strategies for conveying the robot’s mood and emotions. In order to validate the performance of the proposed architecture, the last contribution is a series of experiments that aim to study the effect that the addition of the spontaneous dimension of communication and its fusion with the symbolic dimension has on how people perceive a social robot. Our results show that the modulation strategies improve the users’ perception and can convey a recognizable affective state.
Effective Preservation of Traditional Malay Houses: A Review of Current Practices and Challenges
Authors: Alsheikh Mahmoud Sara , Bin Hashim Huzaifa , Shamsudin Mohd Fazaulnizam , Alsheikh Mahmoud Hamza
Published: June 2024

Traditional Malay houses are a significant part of Malay cultural heritage. They depict local culture, customs, and philosophy and symbolize national identity. As a tourism-based facility, traditional Malay houses contribute to the growth of the economic and tourism sectors in Malaysia. Over time, Malay houses have deteriorated owing to human and natural factors. Modernization and urbanization also threaten the existence of Malay houses. These factors, along with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, are the main drivers for Malay houses preservation. The aim of this study is to investigate the state of the art in the preservation of traditional Malay houses through a critical review of current practices and challenges. The results show that considerable efforts have been made by different parties to preserve Malay houses. However, the preservation of Malay houses has neither reached a comprehensive status nor achieved the desired goals. For holistic preservation of Malay houses, a multidimensional preservation approach is recommended, in which engineering and technology, socioeconomic, planning, and management dimensions are all addressed simultaneously, consistent with sustainability principles and local objectives. This study identifies key areas where strategic support and improvements are needed to meet the desired outcomes in traditional Malay houses preservation. These include challenges and aspects overlooked in current practices. Therefore, the study findings can be used by policy and decision makers to guide the planning and management of traditional Malay houses preservation. It also contributes to knowledge translation in practice by discussing current preservation practices and recommending a potential preservation approach. This study highlights future research directions.
Towards Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Cement Manufacturing: A Systematic Review of AI Applications in Electrical Energy Consumption Optimization
Authors: Oguntola Olurotimi , Boakye Kwaku , Simske Steve
Published: June 2024

Cement manufacturing is known for its significant energy consumption and environmental footprint. As the world strives for sustainability, optimizing electrical energy consumption (EEC) in cement manufacturing is essential for reducing operational costs and minimizing the industry’s environmental impact. This systematic review aims to synthesize and analyze existing scholarly works and industry reports on methods and approaches for EEC optimization in cement production. It examines papers published between 1993 and 2023 in academic databases, scholarly journals, and industry publications to identify open questions and areas where future research may be needed. While challenges remain, continued research and innovation are key to further advancements in energy efficiency in cement production. With the advent of Industry 4.0 digitalization and advancements in data analytics and industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), artificial intelligence (AI) can be leveraged to optimize EEC. This study is a review of the applications of artificial intelligence to EEC optimization in industries that have heavy demand for electric power to highlight the value of directing research to its applications in cement manufacturing. The study posits that with digitalization, applying artificial intelligence to extract operational insights from the data collected from embedded sensors and meters at the plant presents the most cost-effective, high-return, and low-risk opportunity to optimize EEC in cement manufacturing.
Modeling the Intricate Association between Sustainable Service Quality and Supply Chain Performance: Moderating Role of Blockchain Technology and Environmental Uncertainty
Authors: Khan Syed Abdul Rehman , Sheikh Adnan Ahmed , Hassan Nadir Munir , Yu Zhang
Published: June 2024

The growing awareness about natural resource scarcity is spreading across industries, compelling businesses to implement sustainability initiatives. The service sector, including small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) involved in logistical operations, is actively pursuing measures to achieve the expected sustainability goals. In recent years, incorporating sustainable service quality attributes (SSQAs) has become a crucial strategy for attaining competitive advantages and sustainability objectives. In this context, the current study examines sustainable service quality attributes’ role in achieving sustainable supply chain performance (SSCP) and obtaining triple bottom line sustainability outcomes. Data were obtained from 295 logistics service-providing SMEs using the purposive sampling technique. The acquired data were then analyzed using the structural equation model. According to the findings, SSQAs have a positive association with SSCP. The moderating roles of blockchain technology (BT) and environmental uncertainty (EU) were significant between SSQAs and SSCP. SSCP also mediated between SSQAs, BT, and TBL. Meanwhile, EU and BT also have a significant influencing role between SSQAs and SSCP. The study adds to the body of knowledge within the domain of sustainability, by testing the unique interaction between sustainable service quality attributes and SSCP. Likewise, the use of blockchain technology as a moderator on a given relationship is empirically unique in itself. The study also provides the first of their kind findings on the subject matter in the context of 295 logistics service-providing SMEs from a developing country like Pakistan. The study’s findings are helpful for managers in transforming their services by embedding the SSQAs and developing their workforce to be equipped with the knowledge and facilities necessary to achieve TBL outcomes.
Unveiling Climate Trends and Future Projections in Southeastern Brazil: A Case Study of Brazil’s Historic Agricultural Heritage
Authors: Santos Lucas da Costa , Figueiró Lucas Santos do Patrocínio , Bender Fabiani Denise , José Jefferson Vieira , Santos Adma Viana , Araujo Julia Eduarda , Machado Evandro Luiz Mendonça , da Silva Ricardo Siqueira , Costa Jéfferson de Oliveira
Published: June 2024

The intricate relationship between climate and society in a given region demands a profound understanding of climate patterns, especially in agricultural areas like Diamantina, Minas Gerais (MG), recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) as the birthplace of the first Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) in Brazil, situated in the southwest region of the country. Given the growing concerns about climate change, we conducted a meticulous analysis of the climatic characteristics of Diamantina-MG. To achieve this, we examined historical meteorological data from 1973 to 2022, employing the Mann–Kendall and Sen’s slope tests to analyze trends. Additionally, we utilized three global climate models (GCMs) under different shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) to predict future climate scenarios (2021–2100) based on the projections of the sixth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6). Furthermore, we used Köppen and Thornthwaite climate classification methodologies to characterize both the current and future climate conditions of the region. Our results indicate that, historically, Diamantina-MG has experienced significant increases in minimum temperature, indicating a warmer climate in recent decades. For temperature, the projections show a consensus among models, projecting a continuous increase, potentially reaching up to 5.8 °C above the historical average temperature (19.2 °C) by the end of the century. Regarding rainfall projections, they show greater uncertainty, with discrepancies among models observed until 2060. However, specifically for the second half of the century (2060–2100), the models agree that there will be increases in annual rainfall. Regarding the climatic types of the region, we found that the current Köppen Cwb and Thornthwaite B3rB’3a’ classifications could shift to Aw and B1wA’a’, representing a humid tropical savanna climate with longer periods of water deficiency, considering the impacts resulting from increased air temperature and evapotranspiration. In summary, the study’s results indicate that climate changes are occurring and are likely to intensify in the Jequitinhonha Valley region, MG, in the future. The analysis of these data, from the perspective of the Brazilian GIAHS sustainability, reveals the importance of considering adaptation and mitigation measures to ensure the resilience of agricultural systems and local communities in the region that face these significant environmental changes.
Pedestrian Walking Speed Analysis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Giannoulaki Maria , Christoforou Zoi
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Almost all trips include a walking leg. Pedestrian flow dynamics are an essential input to infrastructure design as well as efficient and safe operations. Pedestrian walking speed is the most influential traffic flow variable. This study examines the factors influencing pedestrian walking speed, categorizing them into pedestrian flow characteristics, pedestrian attributes, layout configuration, ambient conditions, and pedestrian behavioral patterns. (2) Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, aggregating studies that investigate pedestrian walking speed across various environments and conditions. The identified factors were systematically categorized, and a meta-analysis was employed to synthesize the results. (3) Results: Speed measurements seem to be dependent on the method and technique employed, with experiments systematically overestimating speed and video recordings systematically underestimating it. Pedestrian density strongly influences speed as in motorized traffic. Being female, being of older age, walking in a group, engaging in social interactions or phone-related tasks, and moving under noise conditions are reported to have a negative impact on walking speed. Carrying baggage and moving under adverse weather conditions are also reported to have a statistically significant impact, but the direction of the impact is not always the same and seems to be very context dependent. (4) Conclusions: The findings highlight the significance of physiological, psychological, and environmental elements in shaping pedestrian behavior and thus speed. Valuable insights from this review can assist researchers, designers, and operators in providing safer, more inclusive, and reliable infrastructures for pedestrians. Future investigations should broaden the scope of data collection methods, particularly indoors.
Smart Farming Technologies for Sustainable Agriculture: A Review of the Promotion and Adoption Strategies by Smallholders in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Bashiru Motin , Ouedraogo Mathieu , Ouedraogo Adama , Läderach Peter
Published: June 2024

Small-scale farmers in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) need to adopt and consistently practice sustainable agriculture to ensure sustainable livelihoods and food security. However, the adverse effects of climate change are threatening the achievement of this goal. Therefore, farmers within the sub-region need to embrace climate-smart agriculture (CSA) as a means for climate change adaptation and mitigation. This study was conducted to understand, on the one hand, how smart farming technologies are being promoted in sub-Saharan Africa, and on the other hand, how farmers are adopting the prevailing technologies. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) procedures were followed to identify 48 scientific papers in sub-Saharan Africa. It was found that promoters of smart farming technologies in sub-Saharan Africa include CGSpace, FAO, National Research Institutions, individual researchers, local institutions, and private institutions. The approach to the smart farming technology discourse in sub-Saharan Africa starts by building on efforts to sustain CSA practices with a gradual shift towards the fourth agriculture revolution innovations. Even where there are efforts to push beyond conventional CSA practices by the private sector, farmers’ responses are still low. It is recommended that any intervention to promote modern smart farming technologies to smallholders should build on conventional CSA practices.
Low-Carbon Economic Dispatch Model of Integrated Energy System Accounting for Concentrating Solar Power and Hydrogen-Doped Combustion
Authors: Chen Jun , Xiao Jianbo , Zhang Bohan , Zhang Zuoming , Mao Zimu , He Jun
Published: June 2024

Against the background of carbon peak and carbon neutralization, in order to solve the problem of poor flexibility of integrated energy systems and wind power consumption while improving the potential of hydrogen energy emission reduction, this study proposes an integrated energy system that takes into account the coupling of concentrating solar power (CSP), hydrogen-doped combustion, and power-to-gas (P2G) conversion. Firstly, a mathematical model of a CSP-CHP unit is established by introducing a CSP power station, aiming at the defect of the “heat to power” mode in the CHP system. Secondly, the energy consumption of P2G hydrogen energy production is satisfied by surplus wind power. The utilization stage of hydrogen energy is divided into supply CHP combustion and CO2 methanation, forming a CSP-P2G-HCHP collaborative framework and establishing an IES low-carbon economic dispatch model with CSP-P2G-HCHP. At the same time, the carbon trading mechanism is introduced to constrain the carbon emissions of the system. Finally, an optimization strategy with the minimum sum of the operation and maintenance cost, the energy purchase cost, the wind curtailment cost, and the carbon emission cost as the objective function is proposed, and the CPLEX solver is used to solve and carry out multi-case analysis. The simulation results show that the carbon emissions are reduced by 6.34%, the wind curtailment cost is reduced by 52.2%, and the total cost is reduced by 1.67%. The model takes into account the carbon reduction effect and operating efficiency and effectively improves the new energy consumption capacity.
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Surface Urban Heat Island Dynamics in Central Yunnan City Cluster
Authors: Fang Qingping , Liu Chang , Ren Zhibin , Fu Yao , Fan Huapeng , Wang Yongshu , Yu Zhexiu
Published: June 2024

The acceleration of urbanization has led to an increase in urban expansion and population density, exacerbating the urban heat island (UHI) effect. Moreover, the phenomenon has a significant impact on urban ecological environments and human health. Consequently, mitigating the UHI effect and enhancing the ecological environment is crucial. However previous research has primarily focused on individual cities or regional scales, with few studies analyzing all cities within urban agglomerations. This paper conducts a fine-grained spatiotemporal analysis of surface urban heat island (SUHI) effects in the Central Yunnan City Cluster from 2000 to 2021 using Landsat satellite data. We calculate the surface urban heat island intensity (SUHII) for 44 cities at the county or district level and discuss the quantitative estimation of overall SUHII changes and driving factors in the Central Yunnan City Cluster. Our findings are as follows: 1. Small cities also exhibit UHI effects, with a 75.4% probability of occurrence in the Central Yunnan City Cluster from 2000 to 2021, resulting in an overall decrease in SUHII of 1.21 °C. 2. The temperature increase rate in urban extension areas and suburban areas is faster than that in urban central areas, which is the main reason for the decreasing trend of SUHII. 3. Land use change inhibits the weakening of the SUHI effect, and population change contributes to the formation of this phenomenon. Additionally, the methods and results of this study can provide reasonable and effective insights for the future development and planning of the Central Yunnan City Cluster, thus promoting urban sustainable development.
Research Hotspots and Trends of Large-Diameter Trees Based on Bibliometric Data
Authors: Huang Fei , Zhang Chenglong , Zeng Yingfang , Yan Yuan , Li Mengxian , Su Zhiyao , Jia Xiaorong
Published: June 2024

The current challenges facing large-diameter timber forests include low yield and low eco-economic benefit. As a result, the development of large-diameter timber forests has become one of the most important strategies for the development of forestry in China. The present study employed bibliometric analysis and Citespace software v.6.1.R3 to examine the literature from CNKI and WOS databases spanning 2002–2021. This analysis aimed to identify the research hotspots and trends in large-diameter timber trees while providing theoretical support and guidance for developing large-diameter timber forests. The research results showed the following data. (1) The number of articles published increased year by year, approximately 4.8 times in 20 years. (2) The journal “Forest Ecology and Management”, where the number of papers is up to 53, has a significant impact on the field of large-diameter timber research. The Tropical Forestry Experimental Center of the Chinese Academy of Forestry and the Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands possess strong research capabilities, with average citation frequencies of the articles of 26.8 and 51.5, respectively. (3) Research on large-diameter trees focuses on “large-diameter timber cultivation technology and cultivation measures”, “forest conservation management”, “large-diameter timber stand structure”, and “dynamic monitoring of large-diameter timber growth”. “Selection of suitable seed sources”, “Innovation of large-diameter timber cultivation technology”, and “improvement of large-diameter timber forest management mode” are the future research trends of large-diameter trees. In the future, it will be a challenge to realize the sustainable development of large-diameter timber resources. Concurrently, long-term monitoring and scientific management of large-diameter timber forests will be a key issue in promoting the development of large-diameter timber forests.
Changes in the Characteristics of Suburbanization in the Warsaw Metropolitan Area in the First Decades of the 21st Century
Authors: Dudek-Mańkowska Sylwia , Grochowski Mirosław , Sitnik Karolina
Published: June 2024

This paper presents the results of a study on the nature, pace, and directions of socio-economic and spatial changes in the Warsaw Metropolitan Area (WMA) related to the suburbanization processes taking place there. This paper’s contribution to research on suburbanization processes and the uniqueness of the research approach used are related to the dimensions of suburbanization analyzed and their integration while distinguishing types of municipalities, as well as an attempt to present the course and dynamics of changes in suburbanization in municipalities depending on their location, their development potential, and the time of appearance of suburbanization in their areas. In the course of our research, data on municipalities from the Local Data Bank were used, and that made it possible to trace the changes occurring in 2002–2021. The selection of analytical characteristics took into account a wide range of socio-economic diversities of the area related to changes in population, construction activity and housing stock, land use and spatial policy, and economic factors and those associated with investment attractiveness. The components of diversification were used to develop the typological classes of municipalities. The final result of this study is the identification of the specificity of suburbanization in the WMA which is reflected in the social, economic, and spatial aspects of the functioning of municipalities.
Driver-to-Driver Communication Skills: Contributing Factors to Traffic Accidents on South African Roads?
Authors: Adedeji Jacob Adedayo , Feikie Xoliswa Evelyn , Dijanic Domagoj
Published: June 2024

Road traffic accidents are associated with different factors, such as nonsignalised road networks, inexperienced drivers, a lack of communication skills, distraction, and the visual or cognitive impairment of road users, which have led to this increase in traffic accidents. Understanding these factors in alignment with road user communication skills can provide solutions that can reduce traffic fatalities. Road users’ communication is predominantly formal in nature; informal means of communication also exist but are not given proper attention during the driving training and licence testing processes. Therefore, this study investigated the communication skills between drivers as a factor contributing to traffic accidents in South African cities. Consequently, 16 traffic scenarios of communication between drivers were simulated using PTV Vissim 2022 and Blender 3.0 software, and a semistructured interview questionnaire was used to collect data from South African road users. The questionnaire was further used to evaluate the confidence level of road users concerning informal communication. The data were analysed via regression analysis to establish the relationship between traffic accidents and miscommunication between drivers. The information gathered and analysed from this study helps us to understand the informal communication types between drivers and establish where communication loss exists, which could potentially lead to a traffic accident. The results also show that the misinterpretation of communication signals can present the possibility of a traffic safety risk.
The Dynamics of Rewards and Penalties: Governmental Impact on Green Packaging Adoption in Logistics
Authors: Yang Xingyi , Dai Xiaopei , Bin Hou
Published: June 2024

The widespread use of traditional packaging materials poses significant environmental challenges. Adopting green packaging is essential for reducing pollution and conserving natural resources. This paper aims to examine the effectiveness of government incentives and penalties in promoting the adoption of green packaging by logistics companies. We developed an evolutionary game theory model that involves governments and logistics companies, comparing the impacts of static and dynamic reward and penalty policies. The results indicate that (1) static policies often lead to oscillatory adoption rates of green packaging without achieving a stable equilibrium, while dynamic policies generally promote steadier adoption of sustainable practices. (2) Different combinations of dynamic policies have varying influences on logistics companies’ propensity to adopt green packaging solutions. Specifically, dynamic rewards and static penalties are particularly effective at encouraging logistics companies to adopt green packaging. (3) A combination of dynamic rewards and penalties tends to facilitate more rapid and consistent adoption of green packaging by logistics companies. (4) An increase in government supervision costs is associated with reduced regulatory actions and a lower prevalence of green packaging. These insights are critical for policymakers aiming to craft regulations that successfully encourage sustainability within logistics operations.
Karakteristik Sosial Ekonomi Petani Padi di Pesisir di Kabupaten Kendal: Kerentanan, Tantangan dan Peluang
Authors: Oelviani Renie , Susilowati Indah , Dinar Iskandar Deden , Waridin Waridin
Published: June 2024

Sektor pertanian di wilayah pesisir mengalami kerentanan dalam produksi, terutama disebabkan oleh salinitas, dampak dari perubahan iklim. Meskipun permasalahan kemanusiaan di bidang pertanian merupakan hal yang penting, data sosio-ekonomi pertanian pesisir masih terbatas. Artikel ini memberikan gambaran dan menganalisis sosial ekonomi pertanian pesisir di Kabupaten Kendal untuk mengisi kesenjangan yang ada. Kerentanan, tantangan, dan peluang di sektor ini dikumpulkan melalui wawancara semi terstruktur pada akhir tahun 2022 dan awal 2023 yang ditujukan untuk 183 petani terdampak salinitas di Kabupaten Kendal. Hasilnya menunjukkan bahwa pertanian pesisir menghadapi kerentanan, menurunnya produksi padi dan pendapatan petani, serta terbatasnya akses petani terhadap teknologi budidaya padi di lahan salin. Sebagian besar petani ingin terus bertani padi dengan kondisi yang ada karena bertani adalah mata pencaharian utama mereka. Namun, masih dibutuhkan penerapan teknologi untuk pertanian dan mata pencaharian berkelanjutan. Petani membutuhkan mitigasi teknis untuk bertahan dan melanjutkan usaha pertaniannya. Upaya adil untuk meningkatkan pertanian dalam mengelola dan meningkatkan produksi sebagai upaya keberlanjutan dan ketahanan sangatlah penting. Untuk mencapai tujuan tersebut, diperlukan sinergi antara pemangku kepentingan pusat dan daerah dari berbagai lembaga.
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Authors: Books Books
Published: June 2024

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