bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Removal of Patent Blue Dye Using Ananas comosus-Derived Biochar: Equilibrium, Kinetics, and Phytotoxicity Studies
Authors: Kapoor Riti Thapar , Rafatullah Mohd , Aljuwayid Ahmed Muteb , Habila Mohamed A. , Wabaidur Saikh Mohammad , Alam Mahboob
Published: December 2022

Patent Blue (PB) dye removal from an aqueous medium was investigated using pineapple fruit peel biochar (PFPB). The presence of functional groups and surface characteristics of PFPB was studied using Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A study was conducted to assess the pH effect, contact time, concentration of dye, biochar dose, speed of agitation, and temperature on removal of PB (Patent Blue) dye from an aqueous medium by PFPB. The highest 95% elimination of PB dye was reported at pH 2 by PFPB with 600 mg/L concentration of PB dye. Equilibrium studies divulged the favorable adsorption that followed the Langmuir isotherm with a monolayer uptake potential of 10.29 mg/g. Findings of kinetics disclosed that adsorption results were properly explained by the pseudo second-order model. The adsorption phenomenon was exothermic and spontaneous, as observed by thermodynamic variables. PFPB reflected a 37% uptake capacity of PB dye for up to five consecutive cycles in the adsorption and desorption study. A phytotoxicity study exhibited that PFPB-treated PB dye solution enhanced the growth of seedlings and biochemical constituents of lentils. The findings of the present study indicate the immense potential of pineapple fruit peel biochar for anionic dye removal from wastewater systems. Thus, pineapple fruit peel biochar can be utilized as a promising green sorbent for the elimination of Patent Blue dye in industrial effluents, as it is widely available and converts wastewater into reusable assets.
Experimental Design Assisted HPLC/UV and LC-MS/MS for Simultaneous Determination of Selected Veterinary Antibiotics in Broiler Chicken
Authors: Abdelshakour Mohamed A. , Mostafa Aziza E. , Hadad Ghada M. , Hamed Dalia M. , El-Darder Omayma M. , El-Gindy Alaa , Khinkar Roaa M. , Aldurdunji Mohammed M. , Murshid Samar S. , Abdel Salam Randa A.
Published: December 2022

Antibiotics are used in the poultry industry to treat and prevent diseases. Their frequent use resulted in the appearance of antibiotic residuals in poultry meat, which is considered a serious public health issue. Among frequently used antibiotics are cefotaxime (CTX), ciprofloxacin (CIP), colistin (CST), doxycycline (DOX), flumequine (FLU), sulfamethoxazole (SMZ), trimethoprim (TMP) and tylosin (TYL). This study aimed to develop an optimized and validated method for concurrent estimation of the eight antibiotics in broiler chicken samples based on an easy extraction method followed by HPLC-UV and LC/MS/MS analysis. An experimental design was used for the optimization of the extraction procedure. Optimal conditions for separation were determined by using a central composite design after studying (1) mobile phase initial concentration, (2) column temperature, and (3) flow rate. The method was validated on the bases of ICH guidelines. The detection limits ranged from 3 to 5 µg kg−1 for HPLC- UV and ranged from 0.01 to 0.05 µg kg−1 for LC/MS/MS, while quantification limits ranged from 10 to 16 µg kg−1 for HPLC- UV and ranged from 0.01 to 0.11 µg kg−1 for LC/MS/MS. The chromatographic techniques were utilized for the analysis of spiked broiler chicken samples at a concentration range from 30 to 300 µg kg−1) for HPLC-UV and 0.01–20 µg kg−1 for LC/MS/MS. The proposed methods were used for quantification of the residues of the studied antibiotics in real broiler samples obtained from local supermarkets in Ismailia governorate, Egypt. The detected levels of residual antibiotics were within the permissible limits.
Impact of Sunflower Meal Protein Isolate Supplementation on Pasta Quality
Authors: Zaky Ahmed A. , Hussein Ahmed S. , Mostafa Sayed , Abd El-Aty A. M.
Published: December 2022

Globally, there is an increased demand for plant- and animal-derived proteins. However, animal-derived proteins are still expensive and expected to negatively impact the environment. Sunflower seeds, an excellent source of proteins, are one of the most critical oilseeds produced in the world markets. This study used sunflower meal protein isolate (SMPI), wheat flour (WF), and their blends to make pasta with good sensory features and higher nutritional value. The chemical and amino acid compositions, rheological properties, color attributes, cooking quality, sensory properties, and texture analysis of pasta were evaluated. SMPI showed a high protein content (87.12%) compared to WF (10.90%). The pasta was made from WF with supplementing SMPI at three concentrations (3.0, 6.0, and 9.0% w/w) to improve the nutritional quality. Farinograph parameters showed that water absorption, arrival time, dough development time, mixing tolerance index, dough weakening, and dough stability increased as the percentage of SMPI in the blends increased. The results also showed that the color (L*, a*, and b*) of pasta samples was darker as the mixing level of SMPI increased. The obtained sensorial results confirmed this result. The cooking quality of pasta revealed that the weight, volume, and cooking loss of prepared pasta with SMPI (3.0–9.0%) increased compared to the control sample (pasta with 100% WF). Moreover, sensory evaluation of pasta revealed that all samples were acceptable. Nonetheless, mouth feel and overall acceptability of pasta reinforced with 3.0 and 6.0% SMPI did not notably impact the pasta compared to the control sample, while flavor did not significantly influence the pasta with 3.0% SMPI. These findings demonstrated that pasta supplemented with SMPI could benefit the pasta industry, which requires a suitable technological process to obtain novel products.
Adsorption Properties and Preparative Separation of Flavonoids from Rhizoma Smilacis Glabrae Using Macroporous Resins
Authors: Su Xiangyi , Zhang Xuan , Wang Chunhua , Hou Guige , Li Hongjuan
Published: December 2022

Astilbin (AST), isoastilbin (ISO), and engeletin (ENG) are the main flavonoids in Rhizoma Smilacis Glabrae (RSG) and have many biological activities. In this study, the adsorption kinetics of AST, ISO, and ENG on HPD-300 resin was investigated and their adsorption processes conformed to a pseudo-second-order kinetics equation. The fitting curves of the intraparticle diffusion model showed three linear stages and did not pass through the origin, meaning the adsorption process of the three flavonoids was controlled by boundary layer diffusion and intraparticle diffusion. Their adsorption isotherms were also constructed and could be well-fitted by the Langmuir equation. A low temperature was favorable for their adsorption. The relative adsorption capacity of ENG was significantly higher than those of the other two compounds, indicating that the substitution pattern on ring B has an important impact on the adsorption of flavonoids with resin. The separation process was optimized by dynamic adsorption/desorption experiments. After separation, the purities of AST, ISO, and ENG increased from 5.55%, 1.22%, and 0.45% to 27.46%, 6.14%, and 2.27%, respectively, and all the recoveries exceeded 75%. After that, the three compounds were further separated by preparative HPLC and silica gel chromatography. In the final product, the purities of AST, ISO, and ENG could reach above 98%.
Nitric Oxide- and Sulfur-Mediated Reversal of Cadmium-Inhibited Photosynthetic Performance Involves Hydrogen Sulfide and Regulation of Nitrogen, Sulfur, and Antioxidant Metabolism in Mustard
Authors: Mir Iqbal R. , Rather Bilal A. , Masood Asim , Khan Nafees A.
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to test the role of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the responses regarding the nitric oxide- (NO) and sulfur (S)-mediated improvement in photosynthesis and growth under cadmium (Cd) stress in mustard (Brassica juncea L. cv. Giriraj), and integrate the mechanisms of S, nitrogen (N), and antioxidant metabolism. The plants grown with Cd (200 mg Cd kg−1 soil) exhibited reduced assimilation of S and N and diminished photosynthetic performance, which was associated with higher Cd accumulation-induced excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The application of 100 μM of sodium nitroprusside (SNP, a NO donor) together with a more prominent concentration of S resulted in increased photosynthetic S- and N-use efficiency, production of non-protein thiols and phytochelatins, efficiency of enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione reductase), non-enzymatic antioxidants (ascorbate and glutathione) limiting Cd accumulation and, thus, reduced oxidative stress (superoxide radical, hydrogen peroxide, and thiobarbituric acid reactive species content). The benefit of NO together with S was manifested through a modulation in H2S production. The use of 100 μM of hypotaurine (HT; H2S scavenger) or 100 μM of cPTIO (2-4-carboxyphenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide) in plants treated with NO plus S reversed the action of NO plus S, with a higher reduction in photosynthesis and growth with the use of HT, suggesting that H2S plays a significant role in the NO- and S-mediated alleviation of Cd stress. The interplay of NO and ES with H2S may be used in augmenting the photosynthesis and growth of Cd-grown mustard plants.
Does Servant Leadership Stimulate Work Engagement in the Workplace? The Mediating Role of Trust in Leader
Authors: Rahal Fatme El Zahraa M. , Farmanesh Panteha
Published: December 2022

Servant leadership is a style that is considered to be ethical, positive, and desirable due to its compatibility with an array of situations. Moreover, work engagement is a key factor that can have positive short- and long-term outcomes for organizations. This research focuses on the role of servant leaders and their effects on employees’ work engagement in an academic setting. Furthermore, the role of trust as a mediator is analyzed to shed light upon its effect after the pandemic of COVID-19. As the academic sector has faced an abrupt shift to online formats, this study emphasizes on the role of leaders in fostering wellbeing for academic staff. This research emphasizes trust and work engagement as important elements for achieving positive employee outcomes within the context of sustainable psychology as a scientific domain. Through a specified approach, a sample of 138 people was collected from various faculty members and analyzed by SmartPLS. Results suggest a strong role played by servant leaders in improving the work engagement of their staff. Similarly, the mediating role of trust in a leader is statistically significant, implying its vitality for improving work engagement in an academic setting. These results can be beneficial for researchers (leadership and organizational psychology) and practitioners in the education sector.
Challenges in Applying Circular Economy Concepts to Food Supply Chains
Authors: Pannila Nimni , Jayalath Madushan Madhava , Thibbotuwawa Amila , Nielsen Izabela , Uthpala T.G.G.
Published: December 2022

In recent years, Circular Economy (CE) has captured vast global attention with regard to its potential in mitigating contemporary economic, social, and environmental challenges. This study aims to present the barriers that impede the application of CE concepts in the food supply chain (FSC) which received limited literature recognition. A systematic literature review is utilized to scrutinize challenges, resulting in 17 factors that burden CE adoption. The challenges were categorized under six subsets and were prioritized based on two perspectives: literature importance and empirical importance. A combination of literature frequency analysis and Field-Weighted Citation Impact was employed to derive the rankings related to literature importance. The pragmatic importance of challenging factors is derived using the Fuzzy Best-Worst method. Both rankings reveal that cost efficiency consideration is the most critical barrier that hinders the transition to CE in FSC. Thus, this paper highlights similarities and differences in the perspectives of academia and practicality by comparing the two prioritizations. The findings can be used to remove obstacles, create policies and strategies, and assist governments in implementing circular practices throughout FSC.
Assessment of Community Dynamics of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in the Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Rhizosphere and Potential Application as Biofertilizer
Authors: Kalamulla Ruwanthika , Sandaruwan Dhanushka , Karunarathna Samantha C. , Stephenson Steven L. , Tibpromma Saowaluck , Elgorban Abdallah M. , Al-Rejaie Salim , Yapa Pinnaduwage Neelamanie , Suwannarach Nakarin
Published: December 2022

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have the potential to maintain the sustainability of rice cultivation via maintaining soil health. The objective of this study was to produce an AMF-based biofertilizer for the rice variety Bg350 using indigenous dominant species of AMF that are adapted to paddy wetland soil conditions in dry, wet, and intermediate zones in Sri Lanka and are co-inoculated with the bacterium Azospirillum. A pot experiment was carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of the produced biofertilizer using the rice variety Bg350. Treatments were inorganic fertilizer, compost, biochar, produced AMF-biofertilizer [1 kg of ground carrier material inoculated with 50 g of AMF propagules and 20 mL of 1.5 × 108 (CFU/mL) of Azospirillum], and the control. A two-factor factorial, completely randomized design was used under sterilized and non-sterilized soil conditions with four replicates. The genera Glomus, Claroideoglomus, and Aculospora were identified as the most common AMFs in paddy soil in all investigated sites. In the 9th week of sampling, AMF root colonization was positively correlated (p = 0.028) with spore density. In Sri Lanka, for the first time, the highest AMF colonization rates in rice were recorded at 36.40% in the roots of the Bg350 from the Gampaha district. AMF root colonization increased over sampling time and was different according to the interactive effect of fertilizer application and soil condition. The biometric parameters and yield-attributing characteristics were significantly higher in the rice plants grown in sterilized soil, independent of the tested treatments. The number of grains per panicle was significantly similar (p ≤ 0.05) in the compost, AMF-biofertilizer, and inorganic fertilizer added treatments. It can be concluded that application of paddy soil adapted AMF species as a biofertilizer increased rice plant growth, productivity, and yield.
The Face Stability Analysis of Shield Tunnels Subjected to Seepage Based on the Variational Principle
Authors: Zhou Zhihui , Ling Tonghua , Huang Fu , Zhang Min
Published: December 2022

The stability of tunnel face remains a great challenge for tunnel engineers, especially when excavation is in a complex stratum under the water table. This paper aims to investigate the stability of soil in the front of a shield tunnel face induced by the presence of insufficient cabin pressure under the water table, on the basis of a variational principle and an upper bound theorem. The analytical expression of the rupture surface for the tunnel face is obtained, and the shapes of the rupture surface are plotted. Comparisons are made to check the present approach against the solution provided by numerical simulation techniques in order to show that the proposed method is valid. The parameter analysis indicates that the groundwater seepage has a significant effect on the range of the rupture surface for the shield tunnel face.
Metaheuristics Based Energy Efficient Task Scheduling Scheme for Cyber-Physical Systems Environment
Authors: Hilal Anwer Mustafa , Abdalla Hashim Aisha Hassan , Obayya Marwa , Gaddah Abdulbaset , Mohamed Abdullah , Yaseen Ishfaq , Rizwanullah Mohammed , Zamani Abu Sarwar
Published: December 2022

The widespread applicability of cyber-physical systems (CPS) necessitates efficient schemes to optimize the performance of both computing units and physical plant. Task scheduling (TS) in CPS is of vital importance to enhance resource usage and system efficiency. Traditional task schedulers in embedded real-time systems are unable to fulfill the performance requirements of CPS because of the task diversity and system heterogeneities. In this study, we designed a new artificial rabbit optimization enabled energy-efficient task-scheduling scheme (ARO-EETSS) for the CPS environment. The presented ARO-EETSS technique is based on the natural survival practices of rabbits, comprising detour foraging and arbitrary hiding. In the presented ARO-EETSS technique, the TS process is performed via the allocation of n autonomous tasks to m different resources. In addition, the objective function is based on the reduction of task completion time and the effective utilization of resources. In order to demonstrate the higher performance of the ARO-EETSS system, a sequence of simulations was implemented. The comparison study underlined the improved performance of the ARO-EETSS system in terms of different measures.
Competency-Based E-Learning Systems: Automated Integration of User Competency Portfolio
Authors: Margienė Asta , Ramanauskaitė Simona , Nugaras Justas , Stefanovič Pavel , Čenys Antanas
Published: December 2022

In today’s learning environment, e-learning systems are becoming a necessity. A competency-based student portfolio system is also gaining popularity. Due to the variety of e-learning systems and the increasing mobility of students between different learning institutions or e-learning systems, a higher level of automated competency portfolio integration is required. Increasing mobility and complexity makes manual mapping of student competencies unsustainable. The purpose of this paper is to automate the mapping of e-learning system competencies with student-gained competencies from other systems. Natural language processing, text similarity estimation, and fuzzy logic applications were used to implement the automated mapping process. Multiple cases have been tested to determine the effectiveness of the proposed solution. The solution has been shown to be able to accurately predict the coverage of system course competency by students’ course competency with an accuracy of approximately 77%. As it is not possible to achieve 100% mapping accuracy, the competency mapping should be executed semi-automatically by applying the proposed solution to obtain the initial mapping, and then manually revising the results as necessary. When compared to a fully manual mapping of competencies, it reduces workload and increases resource sustainability.
Managerial Dilemmas and Entrepreneurial Challenges in the Ambidexterity of SMEs: A Systematic Review for Execution System
Authors: Kim Gayoung , Lee Woo Jin , Shim Hoshik
Published: December 2022

According to the organizational learning theory, there are two types of corporate activities, exploitation and exploration, for enhancing and improving corporate performance. However, organizations are continually faced with choosing between these two conflicting activities that require different organizational structures, strategies, and environments, respectively. This study’s objective is to use a systematic review methodology to investigate how implementing organizational ambidexterity affects managerial performance in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Although there is a general consensus about the relationship between ambidexterity and firm performance, few studies have probed into the mechanism of how it is applied to management process and what antecedents affect the implementation of OA in SMEs. The qualitative method was conducted to investigate the influence of the ambidexterity strategy of SMEs on firm performance. According to the findings, organizational ambidexterity in SMEs has a positive impact on the firm’s managerial performance. SMEs must make decisions that consider environmental factors. Making practical decisions based on accurate formation, considering organizational human resources for implementing ambidexterity, and sharing specific performance goals are all important considerations. This study is also important for SMEs’ top management teams to make proper decisions for the firm’s sustainable growth via OA, and shed new light on the literature of organization theory that operates in a more turbulent environment.
Interactive Effects of Person–Group Fit and Team-Member Exchange in Predicting Continuous Improvement
Authors: Zhang Linyuan , Seong Jee Young , Hong Doo-Seung
Published: December 2022

This study presents a research model that describes how person–group (PG) fit affects continuous improvement (CI). Using the dyadic survey data from a public sector firm in Korea (N = 113), the study found that the relationships between PG fit and CI are moderated by team boundary conditions such as team-member exchange (TMX). The results revealed that a high level of TMX induces the negative effect of value fit on CI, whereas it strengthens the positive impact of ability fit on CI. Implications for theory, research, and practice are discussed.
Whether and How ESG Impacts on Corporate Financial Performance in the Yangtze River Delta of China
Authors: Liu Huiyuan , Wu Kaiyao , Zhou Qiuhua
Published: December 2022

ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) is not only a comprehensive manifestation of sustainable development but also an influencing factor of economic benefits. This research focuses on evaluating the impact of environment (E), society (S) and corporate governance (G) on the corporate financial performance in China. As China is currently in the exploration stage of ESG, a socially approved ESG evaluation system has not yet been formed. This paper deliberately selected variables and composite methods for E, S and G and integrated them into the ESG index through learning from the western experience and Chinese actuality. Then, whether E, S, G and ESG have a significant positive impact on financial performance is evaluated through panel regression analysis based on a sample of 191 listed companies in the Yangtze River Delta of China from 2015 to 2020. The results show that E has a significant negative impact on corporate financial performance, G has a significant positive impact, and S has no significant impact. ESG performance has a less significant impact on accounting-based financial performance and no significant impact on market-based financial performance. This research will help understand the performance of ESG and promote ESG practices in China.
Stability Analysis of the Surrounding Rock-Lining Structure in Deep-Buried Hydraulic Tunnels Having Seepage Effect
Authors: Jiang Haibo , Sun Helin , Shi Kebin , Xu Juncai
Published: December 2022

To clarify the factors affecting the stability of deep-buried hydraulic tunnels containing pore water, the elastoplastic theory and the Mogi-Coulomb strength criterion were used to derive the analytical solutions of stress on the surrounding rock-lining structure, tunnel wall displacement, and plastic zone radius in surrounding rock under different operating conditions. During this process, the seepage effect and surrounding rock-lining interaction were considered. The influencing rules of seepage action, intermediate principal stress coefficient, lining permeability coefficient, and lining thickness on the stability of the surrounding rock-lining structure were investigated in depth. The results show that the seepage effect significantly changed the stress distributions in the lining structure and surrounding rock, reduced the bearing reaction force, and lowered the tunnel stability. The bearing reaction force was decreased considerably from the intermediate principal stress, and the plastic zone radius in the surrounding rock and the tunnel wall displacement was obviously reduced. Moreover, the bearing reaction force was reduced, and the plastic zone radius in the surrounding rock and the tunnel wall displacement was increased with the decrease of the lining permeability coefficient. With increasing the lining thickness, the bearing reaction force was enhanced, and an apparent restriction on the development of plastic zone in the surrounding rock appeared at the beginning, but the restriction effect weakened subsequently. This research can theoretically provide references for analyzing the stability of hydraulic tunnels containing pore water.
Fractional Composition and Toxicity Coal–Rock of PM10-PM0.1 Dust near an Opencast Coal Mining Area and Coal-Fired Power Station
Authors: Leshukov Timofey , Legoshchin Konstantin , Yakovenko Olga , Bach Sebastian , Russakov Dmitriy , Dimakova Daria , Vdovina Evgeniya , Baranova Elizaveta , Avdeev Kirill , Kolpina Elena , Oshchepkova Karina , Larionov Aleksey
Published: December 2022

This study is aimed at elucidating the fractional composition, volume and toxicity of dust that is deposited in the snow cover for the period of snow accumulation at different distances from coal mines and a coal-fired power station in the Kemerovo region (Russia). During the filtration process, fractions of 10–0.1 µm and less than 0.1 µm were isolated and weighed. Light microscopy was used to estimate the size of dust particles in the 10–0.1 µm fraction. We found that the total volume and fractional composition of dust has no significant trend to change in the research space. The dust contamination is associated mainly with PM2 particles. Genotoxic tests on cell lines A549 and MRC-5 with different concentrations of dust showed high toxicity (including control points). Taking into account the fact that an increase in the concentration of PM leads to intensification in the toxicity of dust, we can determine that the territory within the studied boundaries is dangerous for the population. Our study is important for understanding the processes of formation, toxicity, transport and sedimentation in the snow cover from dust generated in the process of coal mining and the operation of a coal-fired power station.
Modelling of a Wave Energy Converter Impact on Coastal Erosion, a Case Study for Palm Beach-Azur, Algeria
Authors: Moradi Mehrdad , Chertouk Narimene , Ilinca Adrian
Published: December 2022

Facing the exhaustion of fossil energy and in the context of sustainable development, strong incentives are pushing for the development of renewable energies. Nuclear energy and fossil fuels like petroleum, coal, and natural gas provide most of the energy produced today. As a result, greenhouse gases are released and climate change becomes irreversible. Furthermore, radioactive waste disposal causes severe radiation pollution in nuclear power. Alternatives such as marine energy are more sustainable and predictable. It has none of the detrimental effects of fossil and nuclear energies and is significant in terms of environmental sustainability by defending the coastline from erosion. Here, we study the Palm Beach-Azur region near Algiers on the Mediterranean Sea. The study aims to use wave energy converters (WEC) to generate clean energy and reduce coastline erosion. The results of this study show that in the presence of wave energy converters, the wave height decreased by 0.3 m, and sediment deposition increased by 0.8 m. Thus, sand deposit prediction demonstrates that the presence of WEC decreases marine erosion and contributes to an accumulation of sediments on the coast. Moreover, this confirms that WECs can serve a dual role of extracting marine energy by converting it into electrical energy and as a defence against marine erosion. Therefore, WECs justify their efficiency both in energy production and economic and environmental profitability due to coastal protection.
Influencing Factors of Students’ Learning Gains in Tourism Education: An Empirical Study on 28 Tourism Colleges in China
Authors: Zhong Lina , Li Xiaonan , Sun Sunny , Law Rob , Qi Xiangchi , Dong Yingchao
Published: December 2022

The rapid development of tourism has put forward new requirements for the training of tourism talents. This study conducted a cross-regional questionnaire survey on tourism management undergraduate students from 28 tourism colleges in seven regions of China. PLS method was used to explore the relevant influencing factors of students’ learning gain. The study concluded that: (1) Students’ gain in professional knowledge reserve, learning ability, innovation ability, teamwork ability and social ethics have a significantly positive impact on students’ employment situation. (2) Internship and employment guidance plays an important role in the influence of college investment on students’ learning gain. (3) Student engagement plays an important mediating role in the relationship between teaching factors (such as learning curriculum and teachers’ teaching quality) and students’ learning gain. (4) The college’s learning guidance and advice collection can effectively improve students’ learning gain, but the impact of the college’s environmental facilities on the sense of acquisition of tourism management students is not significant. This paper provides important implications for the improvement of talent mechanism of tourism education.
Parametrization Study for Optimal Pre-Combustion Integration of Membrane Processes in BIGCC
Authors: Alabid Maytham , Dinca Cristian
Published: December 2022

Presently, the utilization of biomass as an energy source has gained significant attention globally due to its capacity to provide constant feedstock. In 2020, biomass combustion generated 19 Mt of CO2, representing an increase of 16% from the previous year. The increase in CO2 emissions is fundamentally due to biomass gasification in power plants. Due to the growing demand to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, this paper aims to improve CO2 capture technologies to face this challenge. In this context, the utilization of three stages of the polymer membrane process, using different compressor pressure values, has been technically and economically analyzed. The proposed solution was combined pre-combustion in a BIGCC process equipped with a Siemens gas turbine with an installed power capacity of 50 MW. The article simulated energy operations by using membranes of polymer and CHEMCAD software improved in the CO2 integration research project. Consequently, polymeric membranes with CO2 permeability of 1000 GPU were examined while CO2 selectivity towards nitrogen was investigated to be 50. It was observed that by increasing the surface area of the polymer membrane (400,000–1,200,000 m2) an increase of 37% occurs in CO2 capture efficiency. On the other hand, LCOE increased from 97 to 141 EUR/MWh. The avoided cost of CO2 captured was 52.9 EUR/ton.
The Composition and Operation Mechanism of Digital Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: A Study of Hangzhou Yunqi Town as an Example
Authors: Chu Jiewang , Li Jiaxuan
Published: December 2022

Purpose—The digital entrepreneurship ecosystem (DEE) literature is dominated by conceptual studies and lacks micro-level theoretical foundations and empirical evidence. This study aims to explore the largely overlooked question of what the components and operational mechanisms of DEE are. Design/methodology/approach—The study adopts a qualitative exploratory approach. The empirical data consist of field research, semi-structured interviews, and web-based information. Hangzhou Dream Town, China, is the research object. Findings—This study reveals the composition and operation mechanism of DEE. The operation mechanisms of DEE include opportunity symbiosis and value symbiosis. Compositions include digital users, digital entrepreneurs, investment institutions, governments, etc. Practical implications—This study contributes to DEE research by analyzing China’s DEE to help other regions understand how government-driven DEEs are established. This study also helps Digital Startups understand how the DEE works, which allows them to achieve digital entrepreneurship. Originality/value—The study draws evidence from a micro-level perspective which enriches understanding of the DEE phenomenon. It also provides theoretical support for the establishment of a DEE.
MODIS-Derived Fire Characteristics and Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Cropland Residue Burning in Central India
Authors: Ray Tapas , Khan Mohammed Latif , Qureshi Asif , Verma Satyam
Published: December 2022

Cropland residue burning is one of the major causes of the emission of greenhouse gases and pollutants into the atmosphere, and is a major global environmental problem. This study analyzes the spatiotemporal changes in greenhouse gas emissions from cropland residue burning in Chhattisgarh, India. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) active fire data was analyzed over a 21-year (2001–2021) period, and associated greenhouse gas emissions were estimated. A total of 64,370 fire points were recorded for all land cover types. The number of cropland fires increased from 49 to 1368 between 2001 and 2021, with a burning peak observed between December and March. Fires in cropland areas contributed to 32.4% (19,878) of the total fire counts in the last 21 years. The total estimated emissions of greenhouse gases between 2001 and 2021 ranged from 421.5 to 37,233 Gg, with an annual rate of emission of 8972 Gg from wheat residue burning, and from 435.45 to 64,108.1 Gg, with an annual emission of 15,448.16 Gg from rice residue burning. The Chhattisgarh plain region was the cropland fire hotspot of the state. The present study indicates increased cropland residue-burning activity in Chhattisgarh. Therefore, there is an immediate need to develop sustainable alternative methods for agricultural residue management and eco-friendly methods for the disposal of crop residues.
Climate Change and Environmental Education: Stance from Science Teachers
Authors: Karim Norhafizah , Othman Hidayatulfathi , Zaini Zul-‘Izzat Ikhwan , Rosli Yanti , Wahab Muhammad Ikram A , Al Kanta Al Mumin , Omar Syamimi , Sahani Mazrura
Published: December 2022

This study investigated the depth of climate change and environmental education (CCEE) in the current syllabus implemented in Malaysia from the perspectives of teachers, which is an extension to a study entitled ‘Impact of Climate Change on Children: A Malaysian Perspective’. This qualitative study involved in-depth interviews with a pool of teachers selected across Malaysia. Due to the enforcement of the Movement Control Order (MCO), the respondents were chosen purposively via advertisements posted on social media that targeted science teachers who taught Forms 4 or 5 CCEE-related subjects. The interview sessions were conducted online from June to July 2021. The recorded interviews were transcribed, coded, and categorized into themes deductively based on the UNESCO-Education for Sustainable Development for 2030 toolbox. The findings yielded five themes, namely, building the capacities of educators, empowering, and mobilizing youth, accelerating local-level actions, and advancing policy. Most of the teachers perceived that the Secondary School Standards-based Curriculum (KSSM) had improved but that the focus should be on a student-centered approach rather than exam orientation. There was a lack of awareness of climate change and environmental action in the science textbook. In conclusion, a comprehensive curriculum, as well as empowerment among teachers and students in a conducive environment for CCEE can spawn proactive action by Malaysian students.
Digital Financial Inclusion to Corporation Value: The Mediating Effect of Ambidextrous Innovation
Authors: Yang Yi , Shi Shuhe , Wu Jingjing
Published: December 2022

Corporate innovation can be subdivided, according to its approach and novelty, into exploitative innovation and exploratory innovation, i.e., ambidextrous innovation. Defined as actions to promote financial inclusion through digital financial services, digital financial inclusion brings new opportunities for the implementation of corporate innovation projects and the improvement of corporation value. Based on the annual reports (2012–2020) released by 1604 listed SMEs in China and the index of digital financial inclusion from Peking University, this paper explores the way that digital financial inclusion affects the corporation value of SMEs, with some moderating factors such as the financial flexibility, corporate social responsibility and product market competition in ambidextrous innovation. The study shows, in SMEs: (1) digital financial inclusion has a significant positive impact on exploitative innovation, but has less effect on exploratory innovation with a time lag; (2) ambidextrous innovation plays a partial intermediary role in the effect of digital financial inclusion on corporation value; (3) financial flexibility of the enterprise positively moderates the relationship between digital financial inclusion and corporate value. In the short term, corporate social responsibility negatively moderates the relationship between digital financial inclusion and corporate value; however, in the long term, it does contribute to the growth of corporate value. (4) Product market competition positively moderates the relationship between digital financial inclusion and exploitative innovation, but does not positively moderate the relationship between digital financial inclusion and exploratory innovation.
The Effect of Environmental Regulation on Marine Economic Transformation under the Decentralized System: Evidence from Coastal Provinces in China
Authors: Ge Haoran , Zhong Changbiao , Zhang Hanwen , Hu Dameng
Published: December 2022

The transformation of the marine economy is a central issue in China’s economic sustainability. On the conflicting goals between sustaining a strong marine economy and protecting the environment, this study explored the direct and spillover effects of two types of regional environmental regulation on the marine economic transformation of China’s coastal provinces (excluding Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan) under a decentralized system. By establishing a theoretical framework, using panel data of coastal provinces (cities) in China from 2010 to 2019, and using methods of spatial correlation test and spatial measurement model involved moderator, the results show: (1) The gaps in marine economic transformation were gradually narrowed among these regions, but a significantly negative spatial autocorrelation remained. (2) Incentive-type environmental regulation had a direct effect on marine economic transformation but had a negative effect on the adjacent areas, and the decentralization system could play a positive moderator effect. (3) The investment-type environmental regulation and local marine economic transformation showed a significant “U-shape” relationship, and such regulation had a positive effect on adjacent areas. Decentralization could aggravate the negative effect on the local level but had not yet significantly changed the spillover effect. (4) Presented suggestions for formulating policy, industrial transfer compensation, and regulation decentralization. Hopefully, the findings of this study can shed light on how to improve the efficiency of environmental regulation and realize the sustainable goals of the marine economy.
Experimental Study on Low Carbonization of Green Building Based on New Membrane Structure Solar Sustainable Heat Collection
Authors: Sheng Jianhao , Qi Dianwei , Yan Hongchao , Wang Wanjiang , Wang Tao
Published: December 2022

In recent years, energy consumption has continuously been increasing, and the energy consumption proportion in buildings has risen yearly. In order to promote the carbon-neutral goal of carbon peaking, the building sector realizes green and low-carbon transformation. This paper proposes a new type of solar flat plate collector with an additional transparent cover made by the ETFE film, which is tested for thermal performance under different environmental and operational parameters. The Ansys Fluent software was used to build a three-dimensional steady-state model of the collector, which can simulate the collector components’ temperature and the mass outlet temperature under the test conditions. The collector’s instantaneous heat collection efficiency curve fitted by comparing and analyzing the theoretical, experimental, and simulated data. The instantaneous efficiency intercept was 0.72, and the heat loss coefficient was 3.94 W/(m2·K). The results show that the collector efficiency of the ETFE film structure collector is 18.6% higher, and the heat loss coefficient is 27.3% lower than that of an ordinary collector under standard mass flow conditions.
A New Accelerated Algorithm for Convex Bilevel Optimization Problems and Applications in Data Classification
Authors: Thongpaen Panadda , Inthakon Warunun , Leerapun Taninnit , Suantai Suthep
Published: December 2022

In the development of algorithms for convex optimization problems, symmetry plays a very important role in the approximation of solutions in various real-world problems. In this paper, based on a fixed point algorithm with the inertial technique, we proposed and study a new accelerated algorithm for solving a convex bilevel optimization problem for which the inner level is the sum of smooth and nonsmooth convex functions and the outer level is a minimization of a smooth and strongly convex function over the set of solutions of the inner level. Then, we prove its strong convergence theorem under some conditions. As an application, we apply our proposed algorithm as a machine learning algorithm for solving some data classification problems. We also present some numerical experiments showing that our proposed algorithm has a better performance than the five other algorithms in the literature, namely BiG-SAM, iBiG-SAM, aiBiG-SAM, miBiG-SAM and amiBiG-SAM.
Determination of Air Traffic Complexity Most Influential Parameters Based on Machine Learning Models
Authors: Pérez Moreno Francisco , Gómez Comendador Víctor Fernando , Delgado-Aguilera Jurado Raquel , Zamarreño Suárez María , Janisch Dominik , Arnaldo Valdés Rosa María
Published: December 2022

Today, aircraft demand is exceeding the capacity of the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system. As a result, airspace is becoming a very complex environment to control. The complexity of airspace is thus closely related to the workload of controllers and is a topic of great interest. The major concern is that variables that are related to complexity are currently recognised, but there is still a debate about how to define complexity. This paper attempts to define which variables determine airspace complexity. To do so, a novel methodology based on the use of machine learning models is used. In this way, it tries to overcome one of the main disadvantages of the current complexity models: the subjectivity of the models based on expert opinion. This study has determined that the main indicator that defines complexity is the number of aircraft in the sector, together with the occupancy of the traffic flows and the vertical distribution of aircraft. This research can help numerous studies on both air traffic complexity assessment and Air Traffic Controller (ATCO) workload studies. This model can also help to study the behaviour of air traffic and to verify that there is symmetry in structure and the origin of the complexity in the different ATC sectors. This would have a great benefit on ATM, as it would allow progress to be made in solving the existing capacity problem.
Dex-Based Evaluation of Sustainable Rural Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Puška Adis , Štilić Anđelka , Nedeljković Miroslav , Maksimović Aleksandar
Published: December 2022

The research objectives presented in this paper are to assess the current state of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s rural tourism offer and to recommend a course of action for its development based on the model’s data that was gathered from subject-matter experts. In this paper, the multicriteria analysis method DEX (Decision EXpert) was utilized to assess the capacity of rural tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BIH) and to obtain the results. All establishments were rated “very good”, seeing that they made use of the natural beauty that BIH has to offer. The outcomes of using this model were used to generate suggestions for the long-term development of rural tourism in BIH. The contribution of the employed model is in the developed starting points for the advancements of rural tourism in BIH, and the proposed model presents a novel method for evaluating a nation’s tourism potential that could be used in future studies in other tourism-related fields as well. The limitations of this paper stem from the fact that not all tourist establishments were considered due to the lack of unified records for all of these establishments. The model used in this research, on the other hand, is applicable to all tourist capacities, which is an advantage.
The Distribution Pattern and Leaching Toxicity of Heavy Metals in Glass Ceramics from MSWI Fly Ash and Andesite Tailings
Authors: Wang Yongya , Huang Xinyi , Wang Wei , Wu Tao
Published: December 2022

The leaching of heavy metals (HMs) is the key factor affecting the resource utilization of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash. A novel fly ash and andesite-tailings-based (FAAT) glass ceramic is prepared with the full-component utilization of MSWI fly ash and andesite tailings. The effects of the content and distribution state of HMs on their leaching toxicity are studied by performing a sequential extraction procedure and leaching toxicity test. The results show that the MSWI fly ash content greatly impacts the HMs’ leaching toxicity in glass ceramics. Thus, the addition of MSWI fly ash must be maintained at below 20% so as to meet the class III groundwater standard. Furthermore, the different distribution states of Zn and Cr also affect their leaching toxicity. Zn suits the requirements for leaching toxicity only in a 2080c sample, while Cr fulfills the class III groundwater standard for all the glass ceramics. Since this finding is mismatched with the calculated potential ecological risk index of glass ceramics, the latter can only be used as a reference. Therefore, the results of the present study are of great significance in the vitrification application of MSWI fly ash.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Potentially Toxic Elements Pollution in Urban and Suburban Environments”
Authors: Guagliardi Ilaria
Published: December 2022

Pollution by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) is becoming a serious and widespread issue in all environmental matrices because of accelerated population growth rate, rapid industrialization and urbanization, and other changes which have occurred in most parts of the world in the last few decades [...]
Predicting the Impact of Climate Change on the Distribution of a Neglected Arboviruses Vector (Armigeres subalbatus) in China
Authors: Wang Gang , Zhang Dongjing , Khan Jehangir , Guo Jiatian , Feng Qingdeng , Sun Yan , Li Beiqing , Wu Yu , Wu Zhongdao , Zheng Xiaoying
Published: December 2022

The geographic boundaries of arboviruses continue to expand, posing a major health threat to millions of people around the world. This expansion is related to the availability of effective vectors and suitable habitats. Armigeres subalbatus (Coquillett, 1898), a common and neglected species, is of increasing interest given its potential vector capacity for Zika virus. However, potential distribution patterns and the underlying driving factors of Ar. subalbatus remain unknown. In the current study, detailed maps of their potential distributions were developed under both the current as well as future climate change scenarios (SSP126 and SSP585) based on CMIP6 data, employing the MaxEnt model. The results showed that the distribution of the Ar. subalbatus was mainly affected by temperature. Mean diurnal range was the strongest predictor in shaping the distribution of Ar. subalbatus, with an 85.2% contribution rate. By the 2050s and 2070s, Ar. subalbatus will have a broader potential distribution across China. There are two suitable expansion types under climate change in the 2050s and 2070s. The first type is continuous distribution expansion, and the second type is sporadic distribution expansion. Our comprehensive analysis of Ar. subalbatus’s suitable distribution areas shifts under climate change and provides useful and insightful information for developing management strategies for future arboviruses.