bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altruistic Motivation, Moral Elevation and Tourism Support Behavior: An Empirical Study Based on Cause-Related Marketing in Tourist Destinations
Authors: Yang Jin-Hua , Lei Fa-Yu , Zhang Jin-He , Song Ying , Wang Chang
Published: February 2023

The theoretical research on cause-related marketing in the field of tourism is comparatively lacking. This study aims to examine the role of moral elevation in the cause-related marketing of tourist destinations. Taking Zhangjiajie, China as a case study, based on the stimulus-organism-response framework, this research develops a model of altruistic motivation, moral elevation and tourism support behavior. The results show that altruistic motivation has a significant positive impact on the emotional component, the views of humanity and the desire to be a better person; the desire to be a better person has a significant positive impact on tourism support behavior, and it also plays a mediating role between altruistic motivation and tourism support behavior. This study applies cause-related marketing theory to the research of tourist destinations, which can provide useful suggestions for the marketing of other tourist destinations under the background of the COVID-19 epidemic.
Comparison of Physicochemical Characteristics and Bioactivity of Olive Oil Mill Wastewaters from Traditional and Water-Saving ARA-Controlled Three-Phase Decanter
Authors: Sicari Vincenzo , Custureri Irene Maria Grazia , Tundis Rosa , Loizzo Monica Rosa
Published: February 2023

Olive mill wastewater (OMW) is one of the most environmentally concerning food processing effluents due to its phytotoxicity. Recently, several bioactive compounds with potential applications in food, pharmaceutical, and agricultural industries have been identified in OMW. This study aimed to compare, for the first time, the physico-chemical characteristics and biological activity of OMW obtained by two different types of three-phase decanters: a traditional one and a water-saving ARA decanter. DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and β-carotene bleaching tests were used to investigate the antioxidant effects. The inhibition of key enzymes involved in hyperglycemia and hypolipidemia were also assessed. A high concentration of phenolic compounds was found in OMW obtained by the ARA-controlled system. Hydroxytyrosol resulted as the dominant compound, with a content of 502.3 mg/kg. OMW extract obtained by ARA decanter resulted as the most active in the FRAP test, with value of 67.23 µMFe (II)/g. A moderate inhibitory activity was found against α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and lipase enzymes. Data obtained by this study evidenced that the use of the ARA decanter allows for obtaining OMW extract characterized by a higher content of phytochemicals in comparison to those obtained by the traditional phase decanter, and a consequent higher biological activity. At the same time, the use of this equipment allows for the reduction of environment impact.
Characterization of CSR, ESG, and Corporate Citizenship through a Text Mining-Based Review of Literature
Authors: Park Jong Gyu , Park Kijung , Noh Heena , Kim Yong Geun
Published: February 2023

As the social and environmental roles of companies have been emphasized by various stakeholders, the concepts of CSR (corporate social responsibility), ESG (environmental, social, governance), and corporate citizenship have received a great deal of attention in academia and industry. To understand and distinguish corporate responsibility approaches in the literature, this study employs text mining techniques to comprehensively analyze the summary information of 1235 articles (i.e., title, abstract, and keywords) on CSR, ESG, and corporate citizenship. First, frequently occurring terms in text datasets related to CSR, ESG, and corporate citizenship are analyzed to extract conceptual commonalities and differences. Then, correlated topic modeling is applied to the collected text datasets to identify underlying topics widely discussed in CSR, ESG, and corporate citizenship related studies. The results of this study show that corporate citizenship is not only a high-level concept that encompasses ESG and CSR, but also a broad concept with missions that are associated with various societal areas. The findings from this study also reveal that employees, as the principal agents of corporate citizenship practice, are more critical than other stakeholders of corporate citizenship practice.
Sustaining Content and Language Integrated Learning in China: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hu Hengzhi , Mohd Said Nur Ehsan , Hashim Harwati
Published: February 2023

The past decades have witnessed the rise and boom of Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL). As this dual-focused pedagogical approach continues to grow with remarkable vitality and sustainability, however, there is a paucity of knowledge regarding its development and application in China, necessitating a systematic review of previous research to apprise the academia of what has been done in the education and research agenda of CLIL. Grounded in four databases (i.e., Web of Science, Scopus, Education Resources Information Center, and Google Scholar), 28 research articles were extracted from 2013 to 2022 with certain exclusion and inclusion criteria considered. Thematic analyses primarily demonstrated that: (1) most studies were conducted in higher education providers, with English being the predominant instructional language; (2) diverse subject matters were embraced, denoting the coordination of “self” and “other” intercultural identities; (3) affective evidence concerning perceptions of CLIL and performance evidence regarding language learning outcomes tended to be the research nuclei, de-emphasizing the other research topics (e.g., assessment, translanguaging, heterogeneity in learning, learning materials, learning process); (4) the research findings were various, with most of them corroborating the benefits of CLIL to different aspects of learning; (5) CLIL learners were the principal source of data, and diverse research paradigms were displayed with appropriate designs as per the research objectives. These findings, by comparison with the knowledge and experience obtained from the Western world, imply that the scope of the CLIL agenda should be extended and deepened in China, encouraging educators and researchers to consider and probe a wider range of issues of interest.
Assessment of the Structural Integrity of a Laser Weld Joint of Inconel 718 and ASS 304L
Authors: Kumar Niraj , Kumar Prakash , Upadhyaya Rajat , Kumar Sanjeev , Panday Chandan
Published: February 2023

For high-temperature industries operating at nearly 750 °C (advanced ultra-super critical boilers), dissimilar welding between Inconel alloys and austenitic stainless steel (ASS) are commonly adopted. The high-temperature resistive properties of Inconel and ASS alloys are highly qualified for high-temperature applications. In this experimental study, dissimilar autogenous laser beam welding (LBW) between Inconel 718 and ASS 304L is investigated. This paper explains the detailed study on the microstructural and mechanical behavior of the LBW dissimilar joint. The microstructural study indicates the presence of laves phases in the weld zone. Additionally, the weld zone shows heterogeneous microstructural formation, owing to the non-uniform welding heat in the different areas of the weld zone. The optical images show the presence of mixed dendrites, i.e., equiaxed, cellular, and columnar morphology, in the weld zone and in the fusion zones of either side. The energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) results show the presence of segregated elements (Nb, Mo, Cr, and Ti) at the weld center. These segregated elements are the reason for the occurrence of the laves phases in the weld zone. The presence of Nb and Mo may form the laves phase (Fe, Ni, Cr)2 (Nb, Mo, Ti) along with Fe, Ni and Cr. The presence of an unmixed zone is observed in the HAZ of the Inconel 718, whereas the HAZ of the ASS 304L shows the presence of an unmixed zone (UZ) and a partially mixed zone (PMZ), as observed on the optical and SEM images. To obtain the mechanical properties of the laser weld, the tensile test, microhardness test, and impact test were measured at room temperature. The tensile specimens show a brittle failure at the ASS 304L side, which was initiated from the weld top, with average tensile stress of 658.225 MPa. The reason for the ASS 304L fracture is because of the presence of UZ and PMZ, and the lower hardness value of the ASS side. The UZ and PMZ lead to the fracture of the tensile specimen along the ASS 304L side’s HAZ. The measurement of microhardness carried out along the transverse length indicates an average microhardness of 214.4 HV, and the value is 202.9 HV along the weld depth. The mixed morphology of the microstructure promotes the variation in hardness in both directions. The hardness along the length shows a high hardness value in the weld zone and uniformly decreases along the base materials. The Charpy impact test of the weld zone shows the brittle fracture of the impact specimens. From the microstructural and mechanical results, the LBW dissimilar weld between Inconel 718 and ASS 304L is qualified for safe use in high-temperature end applications, such as AUSC power plants.
Guinea Grass (Megathyrsus maximus) Fibres as Sorbent in Diesel Bioremediation
Authors: Khalid Farah Eryssa , Zakaria Nur Nadhirah , Azmi Alyza Azzura , Shaharuddin Noor Azmi , Sabri Suriana , Khalil Khalilah Abdul , Gomez-Fuentes Claudio , Zulkharnain Azham , Lim Sooa , Ahmad Siti Aqlima
Published: February 2023

In this study, the ability of a natural grass named Megathyrsus maximus (Guinea grass) as a sorbent for cleaning up diesel spills in water was investigated. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to identify the physicochemical properties of untreated and treated GG. Several parameters influencing the efficiency of oil absorbed by guinea grass were optimised using established One Factor at a Time (OFAT) and followed by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) approaches. The optimised parameters include heat treatment, time of heating, packing density, and diesel concentration, with only the significant factors proceeded to statistical optimisation through RSM. As a result of OFAT analysis, 18.83 mL of oil was absorbed at 110 °C for 15 min time of heating, with packing density of 14 g/cm3 and oil concentration of 10% (v/v). Through RSM, the predicted model was significant, confirming that packing density and oil concentration significantly influenced the efficiency of oil absorption by GG. The software predicted an oil absorption efficiency of 16.64 mL, whereas the experimental model validated the design with 22.33 mL of oil absorbed at a constant temperature and time, respectively. The RSM technique has proven better efficiency and effectiveness in absorbing oil compared to OFAT. This research advances our understanding of the utilisation of natural sorbents as a diesel pollution remediation strategy.
Nepenthes mirabilis Pitcher Fluid Functionality for Agro-Waste Pre-Treatment: Effect of pH, Temperature, Trace Element Solution and the Pore Size of the Waste
Authors: Angadam Justine , Ntwampe Seteno , Chidi Boredi , Okudoh Vincent
Published: February 2023

Nepenthes mirabilis pitcher fluid is known to hydrolyse lignocellulosic mixed agro-waste (MAW) into fermentable sugars through a cocktail of oxidative and hydrolytic enzymes. However, the influence of factors such as pH, pore size, temperature and trace elements on its functionality is not adequately understood. This study aims to explore the potential of Nepenthes mirabilis pitcher fluid for the pre-treatment of MAW (>106 µm) by assessing the influence of the factors mentioned above on the yield of total reducible sugars (TRSs). The association between the trace element solution, pH, and temperature was evaluated using standard methods: Dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS) assay for the concentration of TRSs, and BET assay for the surface area and pore properties of the samples. The results showed that the highest concentration of TRSs (407.50 g/L) was at pH 2, albeit below ambient temperature, while pores (>106 µm) of agro-waste can accommodate <10 kDa enzymes, i.e., the enzymes could be adequately embedded within the pores of the milled agro-waste used. In conclusion, supplementing the pitcher fluids with a trace element solution did not improve the yield of TRS, but a low pH at below ambient temperature was more effective.
Current Status and Future Directions of Construction Safety Climate: Visual Analysis Based on WOS Database
Authors: Liu Xun , Xue Zhiyuan , Ding Zhenhan , Chen Siyu
Published: February 2023

Construction safety climate (CSC) has become an important part of the construction safety research field in recent years. This paper analyzes the current research status, hot spots, and trends of CSC by sorting 531 articles in the Web of Science (WOS) database from 2017–2022 through the visualization software VOSviewer. The study shows that (1) China has made significant contributions to CSC research, with Chan, A.P.C. being the most published and cited scholars in recent years, respectively, laying the foundation for CSC; (2) the hotspots of CSC include two main directions, namely research on CSC dimensions and evaluation systems, and the combination with cross-cutting themes (such as safety culture, safety performance, and safety behavior); (3) the research on CSC and safety behavior has become one of the most prominent research directions, mainly divided into two aspects, namely workers’ causes and external causes; (4) a warning system of safety behavior for construction workers through CSC is still worthy of exploration. The results of this study could help scholars clarify the research lineage and current situation in this field and to grasp future research directions.
The Obstruction and Advancement in Sustainable Energy Sector to Achieve SDG in Bangladesh
Authors: Munjer M. A. , Hasan Md. Zahid , Hossain M. Khalid , Rahman Md. Ferdous
Published: February 2023

For a developing country such as Bangladesh, renewable energy is immensely important for its entire development and advancement. Bangladesh has taken steps to increase the development capacity in the renewable energy sector and to fulfill the target of achieving one hundred percent electrification. The goal of this study is to determine the present scenario of the capability of the sustainable energy sector, the advancement as well as achievement of adopted plans, obstacles to achieving goals, and to discuss overall issues with necessary suggestions. In this article, according to qualitative research, data have been collected about the steps taken by Bangladesh in the renewable sector, potential achievements, and various progress to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) in the renewable energy sector. The most important things that have been discussed in this article are what obstacles Bangladesh faces in increasing the capacity of renewable energy and what steps should be taken to overcome those obstacles. To present the obstacles in this article, some important points are discussed including the lack of coordination among the institutions that are responsible for implementing ongoing projects and the lack of adequate maintenance. In addition to increasing public awareness of the mentioned obstacles, valuable advice has also been given in making the loan system accessible to entrepreneurs and customers, increasing the capability of renewable energy, and encouraging conducting research on the overall subject. Nevertheless, for technological advancement in the sustainable energy sector, it has been suggested to reduce imports and to make renewable energy equipment available by increasing the production of the equipment that is necessary. To enrich this renewable energy sector in a sustainable manner, the analysis of the current state of the energy division of Bangladesh, taken steps, obstacles, and given proposals presented in this article will play an important role in the future.
A Review on Trombe Wall Technology Feasibility and Applications
Authors: Prozuments Aleksejs , Borodinecs Anatolijs , Bebre Guna , Bajare Diana
Published: February 2023

The current global energy challenges require strategies to increase energy-independence across regions and individual countries in order to facilitate and foster the utilization of passive energy sources. As such, solar energy utilization for covering and offsetting building heating loads is a sustainable way to reduce energy consumption (electricity, gas etc.) for space heating. Trombe wall technology is a passive building solar heating system that can be modified and applied to mild and cold regions. This work presents a review of Trombe wall system’s feasibility and applications across different climatic regions. Trombe wall systems are applicable as a secondary space heating source in mid-sunshine and cold regions. However, a number of design and structural aspects must be thoroughly considered, including the incorporation of PCMs, and the integration of PV/BIPV elements and other performance-improving aspects to enhance the system’s thermal performance and output. The findings of this work can be used in potential future assessments of the Trombe wall system’s technology in different climatic regions.
Urban Computing for Sustainable Smart Cities: Recent Advances, Taxonomy, and Open Research Challenges
Authors: Hashem Ibrahim Abaker Targio , Usmani Raja Sher Afgun , Almutairi Mubarak S. , Ibrahim Ashraf Osman , Zakari Abubakar , Alotaibi Faiz , Alhashmi Saadat Mehmood , Chiroma Haruna
Published: February 2023

The recent proliferation of ubiquitous computing technologies has led to the emergence of urban computing that aims to provide intelligent services to inhabitants of smart cities. Urban computing deals with enormous amounts of data collected from sensors and other sources in a smart city. In this article, we investigated and highlighted the role of urban computing in sustainable smart cities. In addition, a taxonomy was conceived that categorized the existing studies based on urban data, approaches, applications, enabling technologies, and implications. In this context, recent developments were elucidated. To cope with the engendered challenges of smart cities, we outlined some crucial use cases of urban computing. Furthermore, prominent use cases of urban computing in sustainable smart cities (e.g., planning in smart cities, the environment in smart cities, energy consumption in smart cities, transportation in smart cities, government policy in smart cities, and business processes in smart cities) for smart urbanization were also elaborated. Finally, several research challenges (such as cognitive cybersecurity, air quality, the data sparsity problem, data movement, 5G technologies, scaling via the analysis and harvesting of energy, and knowledge versus privacy) and their possible solutions in a new perspective were discussed explicitly.
Achieving Triple Benefits in a Platform-Based Closed-Loop Supply Chain: The Optimal Combination between Recycling Channel and Blockchain
Authors: Ma De-Qing , Wang Xiao-Qing , Wang Xue , Hu Jin-Song
Published: February 2023

In order to solve the problem of false recycling, where the real recycling volume does not match the theoretical one, blockchain is widely used in practice due to its characteristics of transparency, traceability, and tamper resistance. To study its value in academics, this paper focuses on a closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) consisting of a manufacturer and an online platform. This paper discusses the implementation conditions of blockchain, the impact on enterprise decision making, and manufacturer recycling channel selection, and the triple benefits of economy, environment, and society in the CLSC with blockchain empowerment are achieved. Because of the nontransparency of the supply chain, the problem of false recycling is always present. To further solve the problem of false recycling, the recycler decides whether to implement blockchain or not. Through analysis and numerical examples, it is concluded that the greater the difference between real and theoretical recycling volumes, the greater the need for blockchain implementation. At the same time, three major effects of blockchain implementation are defined as decision incentive effect, marketing leverage effect, and incentive alignment effect, which reveal the impact of blockchain on increasing the motivation of CLSC members to make efforts, expanding the market size by improving brand goodwill, and avoiding the inconsistency between the manufacturer and the platform in the preference of the recycling channel. In addition, under blockchain empowerment, a cost range of blockchain implementation is defined, where both the manufacturer and the platform are better off, as well as the optimal recycling channel, which achieves the triple benefits of the CLSC.
Optimizing Extreme Learning Machine for Drought Forecasting: Water Cycle vs. Bacterial Foraging
Authors: Danandeh Mehr Ali , Tur Rifat , Alee Mohammed Mustafa , Gul Enes , Nourani Vahid , Shoaei Shahrokh , Mohammadi Babak
Published: February 2023

Machine learning (ML) methods have shown noteworthy skill in recognizing environmental patterns. However, presence of weather noise associated with the chaotic characteristics of water cycle components restricts the capability of standalone ML models in the modeling of extreme climate events such as droughts. To tackle the problem, this article suggests two novel hybrid ML models based on combination of extreme learning machine (ELM) with water cycle algorithm (WCA) and bacterial foraging optimization (BFO). The new models, respectively called ELM-WCA and ELM-BFO, were applied to forecast standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) at Beypazari and Nallihan meteorological stations in Ankara province (Turkey). The performance of the proposed models was compared with those the standalone ELM considering root mean square error (RMSE), Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and graphical plots. The forecasting results for three- and six-month accumulation periods showed that the ELM-WCA is superior to its counterparts. The NSE results of the SPEI-3 forecasting in the testing period proved that the ELM-WCA improved drought modeling accuracy of the standalone ELM up to 72% and 85% at Beypazari and Nallihan stations, respectively. Regarding the SPEI-6 forecasting results, the ELM-WCA achieved the highest RMSE reduction percentage about 63% and 56% at Beypazari and Nallihan stations, respectively.
Valuing the Recreational Services Provided by Hungary’s Forest Ecosystems
Authors: Széchy Anna , Szerényi Zsuzsanna
Published: February 2023

The aim of this paper is to assess the economic value of recreation as an ecosystem service enjoyed by hikers in Hungary’s forests. The assessment is carried out in the framework of a national undertaking to map and assess the state of ecosystems and their services in Hungary under the EU’s biodiversity strategy. As is common in the policymaking context, the constraints of the project did not allow for a primary study. We therefore rely on previous studies and combine several approaches to arrive at a value estimate on two scales. First, we conduct a local case study, calculating travel costs for the Pilis Biosphere Reserve, a popular hiking area where visitor surveys are available. We then estimate the unit (value per visit) and total value of forest recreation for the whole country by a different approach, based on foreign studies via benefit transfer. We find that the results from the two approaches are consistent and that the monetary value of forest recreation (in the form of hiking/walking) is approximately 10 million EUR/year for the Pilis Biosphere Reserve and approximately 100 million EUR/year for the whole country.
Evaluation and Analysis of the Gross Ecosystem Product towards the Sustainable Development Goals: A Case Study of Fujian Province, China
Authors: Hu Qingping , Lu Chunyan , Chen Tingting , Chen Wanting , Yuan Huimei , Zhou Mengxing , Qiu Zijing , Bao Lingxin
Published: February 2023

Achieving sustainable development is an issue of global concern. Accounting for the gross ecosystem product (GEP) value can specifically quantify the value of ecosystems for people, which is conducive to the formulation of sustainable eco-management decisions. Multi-source data, including remote sensing images, geospatial data, and statistical bulletin information, were used to quantify the GEP value of material products, regulating services, and cultural services for Fujian Province, China, during 2000–2020. On this basis, the spatio-temporal characteristics of GEP and the coupling relationship between GEP and GDP were analyzed. The results showed that: (1) the value of GEP in Fujian Province increased by 27.9% from CNY 3589.04 billion in 2000 to CNY 4590.25 billion in 2020. Among the service values, the contribution rate of regulating services to GEP was always the highest during the study period. (2) The spatial distribution pattern of GEP in Fujian Province was higher in the west and lower in the east. Comparing prefecture-level cities, Nanping maintained its GEP at the maximum value level over the past 21 years, while Xiamen and Putian maintained their GEP at the minimum value level. (3) GDP grew faster relative to GEP over the past 21 years, and the difference between GEP and GDP decreased. GEP had a long-term positive effect on GDP, while GDP had a smaller effect on GEP in the short term. The research was not only enriched in relation to GEP accounting, but also the policy recommendations for improving the mechanisms related to the optimization of sustainable development goals have some practical significance.
On the Need for a Paradigm Change in the Valuation of Concrete with Waste Materials Based on the Example of Concrete with Crumb Rubber
Authors: Nowak Julia , Jaskulski Roman , Kubissa Wojciech , Matusiak Bartłomiej , Banach Maciej
Published: February 2023

This paper presents the results of a study of the strength and thermal properties of concrete in which part of the fine and coarse aggregate was replaced with crumb rubber from used tyres up to 2.4% the weight of the concrete. Twelve series of concrete with w/c = 0.45 and w/c = 0.55 were tested. A decrease in compressive strength and a linear dependence of strength in relation to the amount of rubber in the concrete were observed. At the same time, the insulating properties of the material improved, which also depended linearly on the amount of rubber used in the dosage range applied. A thermomechanical index was introduced to evaluate the functionality of the concrete simultaneously on the basis of the two properties mentioned. It was assumed that a decrease in its value of no more than 15% compared to the maximum value obtained allows the concrete to be regarded as meeting the performance requirements. Out of the twelve series tested, including ten with crumb rubber, only three series failed to meet this condition.
Prediction of 1,4-Dioxane Migration in Groundwater and Evaluation of Remediation Measures in an Illegal Dumping Site Using a 2D-Numerical Model
Authors: Pongritsakda Thatthep , Sakamoto Yasuhide , Wang Jiajie , Kawabe Yoshishige , Sirivithayapakorn Sanya , Komai Takeshi , Watanabe Noriaki
Published: February 2023

Illegal dumping sites are usually characterized by complex contamination situations due to the presence of multiple contamination sources. To improve the efficiency of illegal waste dumping site remediation, this study developed a numerical model considering the effects of groundwater levels and hydraulic gradient changes on remediation operations. Using this model, the most likely sources of contamination for 1,4-dioxane at an illegal waste site in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, were successfully identified (including location, amount, and time of occurrence) by reproducing historical monitoring data (from 2010 to 2022) through history matching, and future contaminant migration in groundwater was predicted. In addition, based on quantitative evaluations of the remediation measures, we found that some remediation measures, such as impermeable wall construction, while having some effects on the control of contamination spreading, may accelerate the migration of contaminants off-site due to the change of hydraulic gradient. Therefore, remediation procedures should be more carefully considered for illegal dumping sites based on an understanding of the distribution of contamination sources and hydraulic gradient evolutions.
Development of Reference Process Model and Reference Architecture for Pharmaceutical Cold Chain
Authors: Latha Divya Sasi , Samanchuen Taweesak
Published: February 2023

Although the competence level in pharmaceutical cold chain logistics is adequate in the current healthcare sector, the future will be more unpredictable, disruptive, and chaotic than the world of today because of rapid technological changes, as well as social disruption. This work introduces and evaluates a new cold chain structure based on the enhanced reference process model (RPM) and reference architecture (RA) for the pharmaceutical cold chain competence design. The modified Delphi technique is used to design a systematic decision context to evaluate the improved RPM and RA and produce a competence design by obtaining agreement from a panel of experts. Ten experts in cold chain logistics took part in the modified Delphi assessment process to describe the model and architecture for an evaluation lead. They defined it as the assessment associated with the professional related to cold chain accreditation. Ten participants from six countries were asked questions regarding their expertise, abilities, and opinions in the first round, and their comments were collected. In the second and third rounds, comments and consensus were collected, which were set at 80% for RPM and RA. This work proposes an innovative scheme for developing occupational standards based on the RPM and RA, as opposed to the traditional method of employing functional analysis to establish occupational standards. This work can be further expanded to develop professional competencies in the pharmaceutical cold chain.
We Never Left Work: Challenges to Sustaining High-Quality Teaching and Learning during COVID-19
Authors: Spiker Amy , Brock Cynthia , Kelly Avia
Published: February 2023

During the shift to online remote learning at the height of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, a group of researchers administered a qualitative survey with a desire to hear teacher voices. Responses were received from many areas of the world from educators at all levels of teaching. In this paper, we analyzed qualitative survey responses from 314 literacy educators in the United States. These educators were K-12 teachers, instructional coaches, and instructors from teacher education. We sought to learn how a sampling of U.S. literacy educators was impacted by COVID-19 in their teaching and in their profession. Teachers experienced stress and uncertainty as their roles and responsibilities shifted. The story told about teaching and learning was rewritten. Data revealed implications for the future of teaching and the teaching profession.
Sustainable Outdoor Education: Organisations Connecting Children and Young People with Nature through the Arts
Authors: Walshe Nicola , Bungay Hilary , Dadswell Anna
Published: February 2023

There is an increasing concern regarding the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people; as a result, schools are increasingly expected to provide support, but they have few resources to do so. As such, there is a need for establishing mechanisms for supporting the health and wellbeing of children and young people that are relatively easy and cost-effective and that can be embedded within the school day to ensure sustainability. The overarching aim of our Branching Out project was to understand how successful elements from one such programme that supports children’s mental health through the art-in-nature-based practice can be expanded from school-based approaches that reach small numbers of children to include whole communities. This paper reports on one strand that examined the practice of organisations offering arts and/or nature-based activities outdoors in schools, either as part of the curriculum or as an extra-curricular activity. Survey questions served as an a priori thematic framework around the characteristics of arts-in-nature activities delivered; the perceived impacts of activities; working with volunteers, teachers, and schools; and barriers to expansion and sustainability. Despite extensive searching, identifying, and recruiting relevant arts organisations was difficult; however, respondents strongly supported the notion that the arts-in-nature practice has a positive impact on children and young people’s connection to nature, supports their mental health and wellbeing, and engages them with their local environment. Yet, challenges were identified in engaging teachers and schools and funding such projects, suggesting a need for a multi-professional approach to creating more sustainable and impactful practice for children, young people, and communities.
Impact of Intelligent Manufacturing on Total-Factor Energy Efficiency: Mechanism and Improvement Path
Authors: Zhou Pengfei , Han Mengyu , Shen Yang
Published: February 2023

Intelligent technology is the core driving force of the fourth industrial revolution, which has an important impact on high-quality economic development. In this paper, the panel data of 30 provinces from 2006 to 2019 were selected to construct a regression model to conduct an empirical analysis on the role and mechanism of intelligent manufacturing in improving total factor energy efficiency. The research results show that first, the productivity effect, scale effect and resource allocation effect of intelligent manufacturing can significantly improve the energy efficiency of the total factor, and the conclusion is still established after endogenous treatment and robustness testing. Second, the results of the action mechanism show that labor price distortion and carbon emission trading policy are important mechanisms for intelligent manufacturing to improve total-factor energy efficiency. Specifically, the corrected labor price can enhance the motivation of enterprise research and development and innovation and solve the dilemma of the low-end industrial structure, thus improving the efficiency of total-factor energy efficiency. The carbon emission trading policy strengthens the willingness of enterprises to improve the process, eliminate backward equipment and increase the research and development of green technology, and it has a positive regulatory role in the process of improving total-factor energy efficiency in intelligent manufacturing.
Social Cognitive Theory and Reciprocal Relationship: A Guide to Single-Use Plastic Education for Policymakers, Business Leaders and Consumers
Authors: Fischbach Sarah , Yauney Brielle
Published: February 2023

Single-use plastic waste has become a growing concern in daily life. Community leaders are implementing programs to reduce the use of single-use plastic and change consumer behavior. This study, using the social cognitive theory framework for sustainable consumption, examines the reciprocal relationship among the following three factors: personal (green consumer values), environmental (bans and rebate/reward programs), and behavioral (consumer decision-making related to single-use plastic waste). The study surveyed consumers (N = 330) across the United States who watched a video on the effects of single-use plastic waste on health and well-being. The results indicate that states with bans or rebate/reward programs tend to have higher green consumer values and consumers in those states report less use of single-use plastic waste. Education level also has a significant impact on green consumer values and plastic waste usage. The study provides a resource guide for decision makers to implement programs in five areas: (1) Business Resources, (2) Public Policy Resources, (3) Non-Profit Resources, (4) Education Resources, and (5) Personal Resources. The study also suggests potential areas for future research.
Financial Sustainability in Agri-Food Companies: The Case of Members of the PDO Parma Ham Consortium
Authors: Iotti Mattia , Bonazzi Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

Agri-food companies play an economic, social, and environmental role. In Italy, the typical products protected by the European Union with the PDO and PGI marks are spread throughout the national territory, even in disadvantaged ones, and generate turnover, employment, and positive effects in related industries. These companies are often of medium or small size (SMEs) and are financially constrained. The research applies the assessment of financial sustainability to the balance sheet statement (BSS), financial ratios (FRs), interest coverage ratios (ICRs), duration of the cash conversion cycle (CCC), and net working capital (NWC) data. It shows that companies in the sector have high capital intensity in both the fixed asset (FA) and NWC cycles. Profitability is largely eroded by the cost of debt (COD). Financial sustainability is calculated through the following: (1) the duration of the cash conversion cycle (CCC), broken down into the cycle lengths of inventory, receivables, and payables; (2) the calculation of the income and financial margins generated by the management and their correlation; (3) the calculation of financial ratios (FRs) and the verification of financial leverage (ROA > ROD); (4) the calculation of income and financial interest coverage ratios (ICRs) and tests on the significant differences between them. The application of ICRs with the financial methodology applied in the research makes it possible to (1) improve the assessment of financial sustainability and reduce the related risk and (2) reduce the information asymmetry between the company and the bank, facilitating access to credit. The duration of the CCC is negatively correlated to profitability (ROE), while size and economic performance are positively correlated. The ICRs (interest coverage ratio) calculated with the financial approach are statistically different from the ones calculated with the economic one. The application of the result is relevant to industry operators and for future research. The research is replicable; the results can be tested on other sectors of the agri-food sector and disseminated to operators.
Investment Intention and Decision Making: A Systematic Literature Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Che Hassan Norhazimah , Abdul-Rahman Aisyah , Mohd Amin Syajarul Imna , Ab Hamid Siti Ngayesah
Published: February 2023

The expansion of financial markets has enabled individuals to invest in a variety of securities and financial instruments. Consequently, behavioral finance has shed light on the characteristics and psychological processes that influence the investment intentions and decisions of investors. We performed a systematic review of the recent literature on the key elements that influence the behavioral intentions and investment decisions of individual investors. In combination with bibliometric and weight analysis, this review aims to propose a comprehensive approach to present quantitative and qualitative analyses of the rising elements influencing investors’ intentions and behaviors in financial investment products. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, this work comprises a review of 28 articles published in Web of Science and Scopus databases between 2016 and 2021. The findings identify six underlying themes of investor behavior determined using content: (1) personal factors, (2) social factors, (3) market information, (4) firm-specific factors, (5) product-related factors, and (6) demography. The future research agenda is highlighted based on the Theories, Constructs, Contexts, and Methods framework. The findings provide insights for both theoretical and practical application for corporations, financial institutions, and policy makers in understanding investors’ behavior so as to strengthen the financial industry and economy.
Assessing and Understanding Arsenic Contamination in Agricultural Soils and Lake Sediments from Papallacta Rural Parish, Northeastern Ecuador, via Ecotoxicology Factors, for Environmental Embasement
Authors: Jimenez Paul Andres Jimenez , Díaz Ximena , Silva Marx Leandro Naves , Vega Anyela , Curi Nilton
Published: February 2023

The concentration of arsenic (As), considered a toxic and carcinogenic metalloid, in agricultural soils has become a global challenge. Sources of arsenic in soils can be both anthropogenic and natural. Contaminated water is used for the irrigation of crops and vegetables, and therefore it is the main pathway for arsenic to enter the human food chain, creating a potential health risk. This study evaluated the concentrations of arsenic in agricultural soils in the rural parish of Papallacta, located 67 km east of the city of Quito, Northeastern Ecuador, and constitutes an analysis of the problem of arsenic in agricultural soils. Shallow groundwater and geothermal water discharges laced with arsenic are frequently used for irrigation and have raised the level of arsenic in agricultural soils. This work is focused on evaluating the environmental quality and contamination of agricultural soils through environmental quality indices such as geo-accumulation index, enrichment, and contamination factor. The average arsenic levels in the agricultural soils of the four studied areas fluctuate between 20.4 and 43.0 mg kg−1, while in the sediments of the Papallacta Lake, higher values were found in the range between 16.8 and 102.4 mg kg−1; all of which exceed the permissible limit by the Ecuadorian Environmental Legislation for agricultural use (12 mg kg−1). The results of the study in the five studied sites of the Papallacta civil parish indicate low to moderate levels of arsenic enrichment, soils enriched by bedrock, and moderate to considerable contamination.
Research on the Influence Mechanism of Fashion Brands’ Crossover Alliance on Consumers’ Online Brand Engagement: The Mediating Effect of Hedonic Perception and Novelty Perception
Authors: Cai Jinjiang , Wu Jingjing , Zhang Hongjie , Cai Yifei
Published: February 2023

In recent efforts, instead of the conventional co-branding marketing approach, many fashion brands have tried to break through the original image by applying a crossover alliance method, and have achieved good results in practice. However, whether this kind of alliance can effectively enhance consumers’ online brand engagement is still a key question to be addressed. Using the S-O-R model, the paper introduces two mediating variables, novelty perception and hedonic perception, to explore the potential mechanism of brand image differences and product type differences on consumers’ online brand engagement under the background of a crossover alliance of fashion brands. This study shows that (1) brand image differences and product type differences positively affect consumers’ novelty perceptions and hedonic perceptions, and (2) such positive perceptions facilitate online brand engagement of consumers.
Experimental Study on Shear Strength Parameters of Round Gravel Soils in Plateau Alluvial-Lacustrine Deposits and Its Application
Authors: Kong Zhijun , Guo Yanhui , Mao Shilin , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2023

The shear strength parameters of conglomerate soils are crucial to the stability analysis of foundation support when excavating and supporting ultra-deep foundation pits in the highland alluvial lacustrine layer. The difference in water content of conglomerate soils in different regions will directly affect the values of shear strength parameters. At the same time, more research on the shear strength of conglomerate soils under different water contents is required. In this study, a series of large-scale direct shear tests were carried out on the round gravel soil in the plateau alluvial-lacustrine deposit, and the round gravel soil’s shear strength curves under natural and saturated conditions and water content were obtained. The influence of different water content on the shear strength characteristics of the round gravel soil was discussed, and the shear strength parameters of the round gravel soil with different water content were used in the numerical simulation of ultra-deep foundation pit excavation and support. The stress and deformation laws of the foundation pit support were analyzed. The results show that the peak strength of the round gravel soil in the natural water content state appears between 30% and 45% of the shear displacement, while the peak strength in the saturated water content state appears around 45–55% of the shear displacement. The shear strength tends to be stable or slightly weakened with the increase of the shear displacement. The angle of internal friction and cohesion of round gravel soil in the natural water content state is greater than those in the saturated water content state. The simulation of the foundation excavation support shows that the shear strength parameter of the round gravel soil influences the force deformation of the support structure. The higher the water content of the round gravel soil, the more the shear strength parameter affects the soil displacement. The research results can provide some reference for optimizing project design parameters.
Photovoltaic Solar Energy in Forest Nurseries: A Strategic Decision Based on Real Options Analysis
Authors: Rocha Qüinny Soares , Munis Rafaele Almeida , da Silva Richardson Barbosa Gomes , Aguilar Elí Wilfredo Zavaleta , Simões Danilo
Published: February 2023

With the growing demand for investment projects in renewable energy, it is essential for the economic feasibility analysis to consider the inherent uncertainties of these projects and enable more accurate investment decisions. In this way, we analyze whether investment projects in photovoltaic panels to produce electrical energy in a forest nursery are economically viable through the analysis of real options. We consider the energy demand of a forest nursery with an initial investment of USD 90,417 in photovoltaic panels. The managerial flexibilities of deferral, expansion of 30.0% of the energy production capacity, and the project’s abandonment were inserted into the binomial model of the decision tree, built in discrete time. The project’s expanded net present value was 79.2% higher than the traditional net present value, capturing the value of flexibilities for managers. The deferral option was the one that most impacted the expanded net present value. Investment projects in photovoltaic panels to produce electricity in a forest nursery are economically viable when analyzed through real options.
Synergistic Interconstruction of the Green Development Concept in Chinese Rural Ecological Agriculture
Authors: Tan Hongyun , Qi Xiaolie
Published: February 2023

The development of industrialization has overwhelmed an ecological environment damaged by the modern agricultural method. The development of a circular economy, which focuses on green development while balancing the development of agricultural production capacity, has led to the emergence of ecoagriculture. This study examines the impact of the green development concept on farmers’ income, using the practice of the green development concept of ecoagriculture in Guangdong province, China, as an example. The study uses the entropy method to verify whether the green development concept advocated by top-down policies genuinely benefits farmers’ living standards. The study results are as follows. First, the green development concept’s application in Guangdong province’s agricultural production and the two-way granger causality relationship between farmer income and food production interact. Second, chemical fertilizers and pesticides have played an important role in promoting the development of agricultural production. Third, in the long run, the greater the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides will reduce farmers’ incomes. In summary, from the perspective of sustainable development, green development will promote increased income for China’s farmers and improve rural development. It is essential to implement the concept of green development in the process of rural modernization.