bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards a “Social Justice Ecosystem Framework” for Enhancing Livelihoods and Sustainability in Pastoralist Communities
Authors: Fonchingong Che Charles , Bang Henry Ngenyam
Published: November 2024

Aimed at understanding how pastoralist livelihoods are affected within the Northwest Region of Cameroon, this article explores the nexus of social justice, indigenous know-how, livelihoods, social security, and sustainability through a political ecology lens. Through a qualitative case study based on in-depth interviews with 59 key informants, this study departs from existing literature by exploring the linkages that exacerbate risks and vulnerabilities for pastoralist livelihoods. We situate the contending issues through emerging data and analysis, which highlight indigenous elements that sustain pastoralist livelihoods (coping strategies and sustenance) and identify diversified barriers that impede pastoralists’ sense of social justice and community-mindedness. Other intersecting pointers identified relate to environmental interactions, social security, sustainability, and decision-making within local and national governance mechanisms that either enhance or impede sustainable development. We proposed a social justice ecosystem framework (SJEF) that uncovers the enmeshments of social justice, social security, indigenous know-how, and livelihoods, with implications for sustainable development. The framework makes a compelling case for co-produced policies; implementing symbiotic social justice-based policies is mandatory, encapsulating thriving aspects of pastoralists’ unique traditions, which are often missed by governments and agencies in social community development planning and sustainable development initiatives.
Coastal Socio-Ecological Systems Adapting to Climate Change: A Global Overview
Authors: Kanan Akbar Hossain , Giupponi Carlo
Published: November 2024

A systematic literature review was conducted on papers studying coastal socio-ecological systems (SESs) in adapting to climate change to support sustainable coastal management and contribute to achieving the UN SDGs. We selected, analyzed, and synthesized 173 peer-reviewed, English-language scientific publications using the PRISMA method. Firstly, we summarized and compared the selected literature; then, we explored its geographical distribution and respective coastal landscapes, and we identified and classified the adaptation strategies focused on different coastal landscapes. Furthermore, we processed the results obtained to develop a unique conceptual model based upon the DPSIR framework for coastal SESs adapting to climate change. This review shows a gradual increase in the number of published papers, particularly after the Paris Agreement, with an uneven distribution across the world. The number of papers and case studies was lower in highly vulnerable coastal areas, with the exception of Bangladesh. Most of the literature presented a local perspective rather than a national or transnational one, focusing more on vulnerability assessment than adaptation strategies. Recent studies have shown an increasing focus on ecosystem-based adaptation. Institutional and financial support are reported as the main constraints on ensuring long-term monitoring and beneficial impacts.
Green HRM’s Effect on Employees’ Eco-Friendly Behavior and Green Performance: A Study in the Portuguese Tourism Sector
Authors: Gomes Daniel R. , Ribeiro Neuza , Gomes Gabriela , Ortega Eduardo , Semedo Ana
Published: November 2024

This study examines how Green Human Resource Management practices improve employees’ eco-friendly behavior and green performance, and the mediator effect of affective commitment in these relationships. Our sample included 449 employees, from different Portuguese tourism organizations. The results demonstrate that the implementation of Green Human Resource Management practices produces a positive effect on eco-friendly behavior, green performance, and affective commitment, with commitment mediating the mentioned relationship. Therefore, when organizations apply greener Human Resources Management, they might influence positively the attitudes and behaviors of their employees, improving their affective commitment and, consequently, their eco-friendly behaviors and green performance. This research is innovative as it integrates Green Human Resource Management, eco-friendly behavior, green performance, and affective commitment in a single research model, expanding the knowledge over these topics, and suggesting that organizations should establish Green Human Resource Management policies, especially those that strengthen employees’ affective attachment and improve their eco-friendly behavior as well as the organization’s green performance.
Sustainable Implementation of Citizen-Based Plastic Monitoring of Fresh Waters in Western Africa
Authors: Schmidtke Lea , van Emmerik Tim H. M. , Pinto Rose Boahemaa , Schreyers Louise J. , Schmidt Christian , Wendt-Potthoff Katrin , Kirschke Sabrina
Published: November 2024

Citizen science projects globally have increasingly been implemented in collecting and analysing environmental data. At the same time, these initiatives are often project-based and, therefore, of short duration. This presents a challenge as data from such activities may not be used in research and political decision-making. This research aims to explore the barriers and solutions for establishing a sustainable long-term citizen-based plastic monitoring strategy in fresh waters based on a case study in Accra, Ghana. This case study is particularly relevant due to the significant issue of plastic pollution in the region, limited official monitoring data to effectively address the problem, and the potential role of citizen science in addressing this data gap in the long term. Data on barriers and solutions were collected based on eight expert interviews, a survey amongst 17 stakeholders, and subsequent roundtable discussions with 24 experts and stakeholders from academia, the private sector, the public sector, and civil society. From this, we identified 30 types of barriers and 21 types of solutions to implement citizen science in the long term. These barriers and solutions relate to five fields of action (social, economic, environmental, technical, and management and governance) and four stakeholder groups (public sector, private sector, civil society, and academia) to implement solution pathways for long-term citizen science projects. Based on our findings, we make suggestions as to how citizen science can be implemented more sustainably in the future in different fields of action and from various institutional perspectives. With this, we hope to advance the potential use of citizen science and citizen science data in research and policy design related to plastics in fresh waters.
Monitoring the Subsidence in Wan’an Town of Deyang Based on PS-InSAR Technology (Sichuan, China)
Authors: Guo Hongyi , Martínez-Graña Antonio Miguel , González-Delgado José Angel
Published: November 2024

In recent years, land subsidence has become a crucial factor affecting urban safety and sustainable development, especially in Wan’an Town. To accurately monitor and analyze the land subsidence in Wan’an Town, this study uses the PS-InSAR technique combined with an improved DEM for detailed research on land subsidence in Wan’an Town. PS-InSAR, or Permanent Scatterer Interferometric SAR, is suitable for high-precision monitoring of surface deformation. The natural neighbor interpolation method optimizes DEM data, improving its spatial resolution and accuracy. In this study, multiple periods of SAR imagery data of Wan’an Town were collected and preprocessed through radiometric calibration, phase unwrapping, and other steps. Using the PS-InSAR technique, the phase information of permanent scatterers (PS points) on the surface was extracted to establish a deformation model and preliminarily analyze the land subsidence in Wan’an Town. Concurrently, the DEM data were optimized using the natural neighbor interpolation method to enhance its accuracy. Finally, the optimized DEM data were combined with the surface deformation information extracted through the PS-InSAR technique for a detailed analysis of the land subsidence in Wan’an Town. The research results indicate that the DEM data optimized by the natural neighbor interpolation method have higher accuracy and spatial resolution, providing a more accurate reflection of the topographical features of Wan’an Town. The research found that the optimized DEM provided a more accurate reflection of Wan’an Town’s topographical features. By combining PS-InSAR data, subsidence information from 2016 to 2024 was calculated. The study area showed varying degrees of subsidence, with rates ranging from 6 mm/year to 10 mm/year. Four characteristic deformation areas were analyzed for causes and influencing factors. The findings contribute to understanding urban land subsidence, guiding urban planning, and providing data support for geological disaster warning and prevention.
Advancing Sustainable Transportation Equity for Older Adults: A Geospatial Analysis of Mobility Gaps in Florida
Authors: Noh Soowoong
Published: November 2024

As older adults face increasing mobility challenges due to diminished driving ability, they encounter heightened risks of social exclusion, impacting their mental, social, and physical well-being. This study investigates spatial gaps in the availability of sustainable transportation options—including public transit, paratransit, and specialized senior services—and examines their alignment with the distribution of older adults segmented by age group (65–74, 75–84, and 85+). Using Florida as a case study, Geographic Information System (GIS) was employed to conduct a geospatial analysis, identifying statistically significant clusters of low transportation availability alongside high concentrations of older adults. The primary contribution of this research lies in its innovative methodology, which integrates precise transportation service boundaries with age-segmented demographic data, offering a nuanced assessment of transportation equity as a crucial aspect of sustainability. Findings provide a comprehensive framework for policymakers, enabling targeted resource allocation and planning that enhance mobility, accessibility, and quality of life for older adults. This study contributes to advancing sustainable development goals by addressing transportation disparities, supporting equitable, age-sensitive transportation solutions, and informing broader discussions on sustainable urban planning.
Foreign Direct Investment, Technology Innovation and Carbon Emissions: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Jinliang , Ruan Yaolin , Wang Chenggang
Published: November 2024

FDI is a critical factor influencing carbon emissions and a significant driver of China’s economic development. However, achieving sustainable economic development remains a major challenge for China. Hence, this paper aims to explore how to foster positive interactions between FDI and carbon emissions. Specifically, we first analyze the mechanism of FDI on carbon emissions from a theoretical perspective. Then, using panel data from 27 provinces in China, an empirical analysis is conducted. In the empirical analysis, we use the panel regression models to analyze the impact of FDI on carbon emissions. Additionally, a configuration analysis method is employed to examine the interactive relationship between FDI quality and carbon emissions. The conclusions of this paper are as follows. Overall, FDI significantly inhibits carbon emissions across provinces, with this effect strengthening as the scale and quality of FDI increase. Heterogeneity analysis shows that the inhibitory effect of FDI on carbon emissions is more pronounced in provinces with high technological financial support and stringent environmental regulations. Mediation analysis indicates that technological innovation serves as a mediator between FDI and carbon emissions, which means that FDI could promote “the quality improvement and the quantity increase” of green technological innovation to reduce carbon emissions. Furthermore, the configuration analysis shows that the carbon reduction effect of FDI results from the combined influence of various factors. Among those, FDI’s export capacity is a key factor. The findings above enhance our knowledge of the environmental effects of FDI from the perspective of FDI quality. Moreover, these explorations also offer new insights and strategies for China’s pursuit of sustainable economic development.
Research on Sustainable Scheduling of Material-Handling Systems in Mixed-Model Assembly Workshops Based on Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Xia Beixin , Li Yuan , Gu Jiayi , Peng Yunfang
Published: November 2024

In order to dynamically respond to changes in the state of the assembly line and effectively balance the production efficiency and energy consumption of mixed-model assembly, this paper proposes a deep reinforcement learning sustainable scheduling model based on the Deep Q network. According to the particularity of the workshop material-handling system, the action strategy and reward and punishment function are designed, and the neural network structure, parameter update method, and experience pool selection method of the original Deep Q network dual neural network are improved. Prioritized experience replay is adopted to form a real-time scheduling method for workshop material handling based on the Prioritized Experience Replay Deep Q network. The simulation results demonstrate that compared with other scheduling methods, this deep reinforcement learning approach significantly optimizes material-handling scheduling in mixed-flow assembly workshops, effectively reducing handling distance while ensuring timely delivery to the assembly line, ultimately achieving maximum output with sustainable considerations.
Engaging in Fashion Take-Back Programs: The Role of Loyalty and Perceived Benefits from a Social Exchange Perspective
Authors: Seo Hyesim , Jin Byoungho Ellie
Published: November 2024

Numerous fashion brands, such as Patagonia, H&M, and Levi’s, offer take-back programs, encouraging customers to return used clothing for monetary incentives so that the brands can resell, recycle, or donate them. Drawing on social exchange theory, this study suggests that consumers are more likely to participate in a loyal brand’s take-back program as they own more items from loyal brands due to repeated purchases. Loyal consumers, viewing this as part of an ongoing relationship with the brand, may participate because they perceive greater benefits than non-loyal consumers. In turn, brands benefit by keeping loyal consumers engaged through product collection and future purchases using coupons. This study examines how brand loyalty affects the perceived benefits of take-back programs, shaping participation intention. It also explores how environmental concern moderates the mediating effect of perceived benefits between brand loyalty and participation intention. Data were collected from 467 U.S. consumers via an online survey. Results revealed that the more loyal consumers were, the greater they perceived economic, environmental, and convenience benefits to be, increasing their intention to participate. Economic benefits were more effective for consumers with low levels of environmental concern, while environmental benefits were more influential for those with high levels of environmental concern.
Integrating Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management: A Bibliometric Analysis of Theme Extraction via Text Mining
Authors: Balcıoğlu Yavuz Selim , Çelik Ahmet Alkan , Altındağ Erkut
Published: November 2024

The integration of blockchain technology into supply chain management (SCM) has emerged as a revolutionary force transforming traditional business operations. This study uses bibliometric analysis on 1069 articles from the Scopus database, using text mining and Python to uncover predominant themes and research trends at the intersection of blockchain and SCM. The key findings revealed three main thematic groups: ‘blockchain to improve transparency and traceability in SCM’ (supported by 323 articles), ‘impact of blockchain on supply chain efficiency and cost reduction’ (295 articles), and ‘blockchain-enabled supply chain resilience’ (191 articles). Furthermore, text mining highlighted prominent themes such as ‘decentralized supply chain networks’ (204 articles), ‘smart contracts for automated processes in SCM’ (234 articles), and ‘blockchain for sustainable supply chain practices’ (227 articles). The inclusion of sustainability themes reflects the growing importance of environmentally conscious strategies within supply chains, driven by the capacity of blockchain to reduce waste, and promote resource efficiency. The study identifies critical literature gaps, advocating for further exploration of the socio-economic impacts of blockchain on SCM. The topic extraction suggests new directions for SCM theory, while the role of blockchain in fostering sustainable and ethical supply chains is underscored. Practically, blockchain and IoT emerge as pivotal in the advancement of SCM, with text mining offering industry foresight and emphasizing blockchain-driven resilient strategies. Limitations include reliance on a single database and the recommendation that future studies incorporate diverse sources and qualitative insights. The findings provide a roadmap for academics and practitioners, highlighting potential avenues in SCM, especially in the context of sustainable and ethical practices.
Does Social Media Make Tourists More like Special Forces? The Impact of Supportive Communication on Generation Z’s Intention to Engage in Special Forces-Style Tourism
Authors: Zhao Jianzhen , Wang Yiyan , Liu Shuaifang , Li Jun (Justin) , Wang Qinglin
Published: November 2024

In the post-COVID-19 era, tourism and cultural industries have begun to bounce back, and their “revenge tourism” desire has forced “Special Forces-style tourism”, which was popularized throughout Chinese social media in 2023. This study explores a current knowledge gap in understanding how social media inspires Generation Z’s engagement in Special Forces tourism and implications for practical sustainable tourism. By leaning on the SOR model, Social Identity Theory, and Social Learning Theory, this study investigates how supportive and interactive social media environments shape the sustainable engagement intentions of Generation Z. We experimentally find that perceived supportive communication about sustainability issues significantly inflates sustainable engagement intentions in high-interactivity settings, by encouraging flow experiences and vicarious reinforcement that facilitate socially responsible travel decisions. Key findings include identification of supportive online interactions that can facilitate sustainable tourism among born-digital travelers, who enable informed, socially and environmentally responsible tourism behaviors.
Deciphering Whether Illite, a Natural Clay Mineral, Alleviates Cadmium Stress in Glycine max Plants via Modulation of Phytohormones and Endogenous Antioxidant Defense System
Authors: Kang Sang-Mo , Shaffique Shifa , Injamum-Ul-Hoque Md. , Gam Ho-Jun , Woo Ji-In , Jeon Jin Ryeol , Lee Da-Sol , Lee In-Jung , Mun Bong-Gyu
Published: November 2024

Globally, cadmium (Cd) stress dramatically reduces agricultural yield. Illite, a natural clay mineral, is a low-cost, environmentally acceptable, new promising method of reducing the heavy metal (HM) stress of cereal crops. In research statistics, there is little research on stress tolerance behavior of Illite (IL) on an experimental soybean plant. In the present study, we took IL and examined it for tolerance to Cd, as well as for other plant-growth-promoting (PGP) characteristics in Glycine max (soybean). The results showed that applying clay minerals in different concentrations enhanced the level of SA (defense hormone) and reduced the level of ABA (stress hormone). Cd 1 mM significantly reduces plant growth by altering their morphological characteristics. However, the application of IL significantly enhanced the seedling characteristics, such as root length (RL), 29.6%, shoot length (SL), 14.5%, shoot fresh biomass (SFW), 10.8%, and root fresh biomass (RFB), 6.4%, in comparison with the negative control group. Interestingly, IL 1% also enhanced the chlorophyll content (C.C), 15.5%, and relative water content (RWC), 12.5%, in all treated plants. Moreover, it resulted in an increase in the amount of superoxide dismutase (SOD), phenolics, and flavonoids in soybean plants, while lowering the levels of peroxidase (POD) and H2O2. Furthermore, compared to control plants, soybean plants treated with the Illite exhibited increased Si absorption and lower Cd levels, according to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Thus, the IL can operate as an environmentally beneficial biofertilizer and sustainable approach under Cd stress by promoting plant development by activating signaling events.
MHD Generation for Sustainable Development, from Thermal to Wave Energy Conversion: Review
Authors: Domínguez-Lozoya José Carlos , Domínguez-Lozoya David Roberto , Cuevas Sergio , Ávalos-Zúñiga Raúl Alejandro
Published: November 2024

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generators are direct energy conversion devices that transform the motion of an electrically conducting fluid into electricity through interaction with a magnetic field. Developed as an alternative to conventional turbine-generator systems, MHD generators evolved through the 20th century from large units, which are intended to transform thermal energy into electricity using plasma as a working fluid, to smaller units that can harness heat from a variety of sources. In the last few decades, an effort has been made to develop energy conversion systems that incorporate MHD generators to harvest renewable sources such as solar and ocean energy, strengthening the sustainability of this technology. This review briefly synthesizes the main steps in the evolution of MHD technology for electricity generation, starting by outlining its physical principles and the proposals to convert thermal energy into electricity, either using a high-temperature plasma as a working fluid or a liquid metal in a one- or two-phase flow at lower temperatures. The use of wave energy in the form of acoustic waves, which were obtained from the conversion of thermal energy through thermoacoustic devices coupled to liquid metal and plasma MHD generators, as well as alternatives for the transformation of environmental energy resources employing MHD transducers, is also assessed. Finally, proposals for the conversion of ocean energy, mainly in the form of waves and tides, into electric energy, through MHD generators using either seawater or liquid metal as working fluids, are presented along with some of the challenges of MHD conversion technology.
Identification of Land Use Conflict Based on Multi-Scenario Simulation—Taking the Central Yunnan Urban Agglomeration as an Example
Authors: Wu Guangzhao , Lin Yilin , Zhao Junsan , Chen Qiaoxiong
Published: November 2024

Land use conflict is an inevitable and objective phenomenon during regional development, with significant impacts on both regional economic growth and ecological security. Scientifically assessing the spatiotemporal evolution of these conflicts is essential to optimize land use structures and promote sustainable resource utilization. This study employs multi-period land use/land cover remote sensing data from China to develop a model for the measurement of land use conflict from the perspective of the landscape ecological risk. By applying the optimal landscape scale method to determine the most appropriate analysis scale, this research investigates the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of land use conflicts in the Central Yunnan Urban Agglomeration from 2000 to 2020. Furthermore, by integrating the Patch-Generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS) model with the Multi-Objective Programming (MOP) algorithm, this study simulates the spatial patterns of land use conflict in 2030 under four scenarios: Natural Development (ID), Economic Development (ED), Ecological Conservation (PD), and Sustainable Development (SD). The findings reveal that, from 2000 to 2020, the proportion of areas with strong and moderately strong conflict levels in the Central Yunnan Urban Agglomeration increased by 2.19%, while the proportion of areas with weak and moderately weak conflict levels decreased by 1.45%, underscoring the growing severity of land use conflict. The predictions for 2030 suggest that the spatial pattern of conflict under various scenarios will largely reflect the trends observed in 2020. Under the ID scenario, areas with weak and moderately weak conflict levels constitute 57.5% of the region; this increases by 0.85% under the SD scenario. Conversely, areas experiencing strong and moderately strong conflict levels, which stand at 33.02% under the ID scenario, decrease by 1.04% under the SD scenario. These projections indicate that the SD scenario, which aims to balance ecological conservation with economic development, effectively mitigates land use conflict, making it the most viable strategy for future regional development.
Environmental, Social and Governance Performance on Brand Value in the Context of “Dual Carbon”: The Mediating Effect of R&D Innovation
Authors: Li Yingyu , Wang Heqing
Published: November 2024

As an important asset of an enterprise, brand value reflects its competitive position in the market. With the proposed goal of “carbon peak” and “carbon neutrality”, the development of enterprises is paying more and more attention to ESG performance (that is, the performance of enterprises in environmental, social and governance aspects), and the attention of brand management is slowly shifting away from traditional products and markets into being green and sustainable. In order to verify the relationship between ESG performance and brand value, this study takes Chinese A-share listed enterprises from 2012 to 2021 as research samples to reveal the mechanism of ESG performance’s impact on brand value. The results show that ESG performance can significantly improve brand value, indicating that the investment in ESG will ultimately affect brand value. The mediation mechanism analysis shows that R&D innovation plays a mediating role in the relationship between the two. A heterogeneity analysis shows that the ESG performance of state-owned enterprises and large enterprises has a stronger promoting effect on brand value, while small enterprises do not show heterogeneity. The research results provide new evidence to reveal the impact of ESG performance on brand management, and have reference significance for ESG construction, brand marketing innovation, and corporate green innovation.
New Management Strategy Framework for Effectively Managing Microplastic in Circular System from Plastic Product Manufacturing to Waste Treatment Facility
Authors: Um Namil , Cho Soo-Jin , Yoon Young-Sam
Published: November 2024

In recent years, concerns regarding the environmental impact of microplastics (MPs) have led to increased international attention on these pollutants. Although the initial focus was largely directed toward marine environments, land-based pollution sources, including MP release, have been recognized to directly affect marine ecosystems. Therefore, soil-, atmosphere-, groundwater-, and river-based research is ongoing. However, when considering sources of MP, it is necessary to examine the circular system of plastic in terms of raw materials, production, consumption, discharge, and disposal (recycling). Accordingly, the present study proposes a strategy to effectively manage MPs using this circular system. First, the factors influencing MPs in the circular system were identified, and MPs at the system’s final stage, i.e., at the waste treatment facility, were subsequently investigated. Using the concept of MP waste (MPW), strategies were then developed for effective MP management within the circular system. Applying the proposed theoretical strategy to the Korean waste management system revealed that the new policy framework improves the current MP management system. Overall, this study provides fundamental data for establishing new or improved MP management schemes from a waste sector perspective.
Coordinated Ramp Metering Considering the Dynamics of Mixed-Autonomy Traffic
Authors: Yu Hongxin , Zhang Lihui , Zhang Meng , Jin Fengyue , Wang Yibing
Published: November 2024

The introduction of connected autonomous vehicles may bring opportunities and challenges to traditional traffic control instruments, like ramp metering. This paper starts by constructing the fundamental diagram for mixed-autonomy traffic based on the car-following behaviors of both connected autonomous vehicles and human-driven vehicles. Then, analyses are performed on the main factors that influence the critical velocity, critical density, and road capacity under mixed-autonomy traffic. Two methods named COE-HERO and TRLCRM are developed to support the implementations of coordinated ramp metering for freeways with mixed-autonomy traffic. The COE-HERO method enhances the HERO method by incorporating a critical occupancy estimation module. Both COE-HERO and TRLCRM consider dynamic traffic flow parameters of mixed-autonomy traffic. The TRLCRM method is a reinforcement learning-based approach with a two-stage training framework, enabling it to adapt to varying mixed-autonomy demand scenarios. Extensive microscopic simulations show that the learning-based TRLCRM method can effectively alleviate bottleneck congestion and is robust to deal with various traffic scenarios. The COE-HERO method performs better than the HERO method, indicating the necessity of critical occupancy estimation in the implementations of coordinated ramp metering.
Spatiotemporal Evolution of the Coupling-Coordinated Development of Digital Factors and Rural–Industrial Integration
Authors: Jia Xingmei , Zhu Tingting
Published: November 2024

China’s agricultural development is challenged by delays in digital transformation. Understanding the alignment and trends of digital factors with rural–industrial integration is crucial for advancing agricultural digitalization. This study analyzes data from several Chinese provinces (2013–2021) using the entropy-weighted TOPSIS method to assess digital factors and rural–industrial integration levels. A coupling coordination model evaluates their interplay over time, and a center of gravity analysis along with the Dagum Gini system investigates their spatial distribution and divergence. The results show that from 2013 to 2021, digital factors and rural–industrial integration exhibited fluctuating trends. Provinces with higher levels were predominantly in the eastern region, which also had advanced digital transformation. There was a high level of interaction between these elements, especially in the eastern region. By 2021, the coupling index ranged from 0.9 to 1 across all provinces. Coordination generally remained low, with the eastern region showing medium-level high coordination, the central region low-level high coordination, and the western region high-level moderate coordination. Spatial analysis indicates a southwestward trend in the development of digital factors and rural–industrial integration. The epicenter is shifting towards the southern coastal regions, with regional disparities widening. Inter-regional disparities are diminishing annually, while intra-regional disparities are increasing, highlighting significant coupling and coordination effects. To enhance rural–industrial integration, digital strategies that meet the unique needs of rural industries are essential, fostering innovation and leveraging technological advancements effectively.
An Empirical Study on the Digital Economy, Fiscal Policy, and Regional Sustainable Development—Based on Data from Less Developed Regions in China
Authors: Zheng Ruiqiang , Huang Huang
Published: November 2024

Reducing inequality within and between countries and enhancing social welfare are important components of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals. Based on the experience of developed countries or regions, the digital economy and fiscal policy are effective ways of promoting inclusive regional economic growth. Fully considering the completeness and availability of the data, we select the data of China’s less developed regions from 2001 to 2011 for empirical testing. This study empirically examined the effect of the digital economy on regional sustainable development and the underlying mechanism, taking an analysis of the regulatory effect of fiscal policy into account. The results show the following: (1) The digital economy and regional sustainable development exhibit an inverted “U” curve relationship. In the early stage of development, relying on its own economies of scale, the digital economy releases the “digital dividend”, positively affecting the sustainable development of the regional economy; in the later stage, the “digital divide” has a positive impact on the development of the regional economy. The inhibitory effect of the “digital divide” is greater than the enhancement effect of the “digital dividend”, negatively affecting the sustainable development of regional economies. (2) There is regional heterogeneity in the mechanism of the effect of the digital economy on regional sustainable development. The digital economy affects the level of regional sustainable development through the two paths of “comprehensive prosperity” and “holistic well-being”. For the samples in the eastern and western regions, the digital economy plays the role of promoting and then inhibiting, while for the samples in the central region, it plays the role of inhibiting and then promoting. (3) Fiscal policy negatively regulates the effect of the digital economy on regional sustainable development, but the regulatory effect is not significant.
Effects of Heavy Grazing on Interspecific Relationships at Different Spatial Scales in Desert Steppe of China
Authors: Du Xiaoyu , Zhang Jun , Liu Juhong , Lv Shijie , Liu Haijun
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the effects of grazing intensity and spatial scale on the important values, interspecific relationships, and community stability of desert steppe plant communities in Siziwang Banner, Inner Mongolia, China. Using vegetation data collected at three spatial scales (50 m × 50 m, 25 m × 25 m, and 2.5 m × 2.5 m) under two grazing conditions (no grazing and heavy grazing), we employed ecological statistics, including variance ratio analysis, χ2 tests, and the Jaccard index, to analyze species interactions and community structure. The results indicated that the important values of species vary with both spatial scale and grazing intensity; for example, Stipa breviflori and Chenopodium aristatum exhibited significantly higher important values in heavily grazed areas. Larger spatial scales enhanced the dominance of Cleistogenes songorica and Chenopodium aristatum, while smaller scales favored Stipa breviflori and Caragana stenophylla. Furthermore, interspecific associations were stronger in heavy grazing conditions. The community demonstrated consistent instability; however, no grazing areas were more stable than heavily grazed ones. These findings highlight that species importance, interspecific relationships, and community stability are closely linked to grazing intensity and spatial scale, emphasizing the critical role of sustainable grazing management in maintaining the long-term stability and resilience of desert steppe ecosystems. By emphasizing the need for targeted and sustainable management strategies, this study aims to contribute to the restoration and preservation of these vital ecosystems.
Constructing and Analyzing BiHom-(Pre-)Poisson Conformal Algebras
Authors: Asif Sania , Wang Yao
Published: November 2024

This study introduces the notions of BiHom-Poisson conformal algebra, BiHom-pre-Poisson conformal algebra, and their related structures. We show that many new BiHom-Poisson conformal algebras can be constructed from a BiHom-Poisson conformal algebra. In particular, the direct product of two BiHom-Poisson conformal algebras is also a BiHom-Poisson conformal algebra. We further describe the conformal bimodule and representation theory of the BiHom-Poisson conformal algebra. In addition, we define BiHom-pre-Poisson conformal algebra as the combination of BiHom-pre-Lie conformal algebra and BiHom-dendriform conformal algebra under some compatibility conditions. We further demonstrate a way to construct BiHom-Poisson conformal algebra from BiHom-pre-Poisson conformal algebra and provide the representation theory for BiHom-pre-Poisson conformal algebra. Finally, a detailed description of O-operators and Rota–Baxter operators on BiHom-Poisson conformal algebra is provided.
Lack of Brain Asymmetry in the Alpha Band During the Observation of Object Grasping in Reality Versus on Screen
Authors: Andreu-Sánchez Celia , Martín-Pascual Miguel Ángel , Gruart Agnès , Delgado-García José María
Published: November 2024

The way audiovisuals are perceived is not completely understood. Previous works have shown that attention increases when watching audiovisuals compared with looking at real events, but depending on the editing style, and the interpreter, the understanding of the content may be different. The study of brain asymmetries in this context aims to identify potential lateralizations in audiovisual perception. Previous studies have proven that seeing others grasp objects has a contralateral impact on somatosensory areas (C3 and C4) in the alpha band (8–12 Hz). In this work, we investigated whether brain activity could be asymmetrical in that band when looking at real grasping compared with watching grasping on a screen, and whether media expertise would be a determinant in this regard and presented the same narrative content both through live performance and as a movie to 40 participants (half of them media professionals) while recording their electroencephalography (EEG) activity. We conclude that the asymmetry in the alpha band in the somatosensory cortex is not affected by the medium through which the grasping actions are presented, that is, in reality or on screen. We also conclude that media expertise does not impact this asymmetry.
Numerical Simulation on Medium-Deep Hole Straight Cut Blasting Based on the Principle of Segmented Charging
Authors: Zhang Xiantang , Wang Fuzhi , Bai Zhiyu , Shao Bin , Wei Yuchao , Wu Qingqian , Zhang Jingshuang
Published: November 2024

The efficiency of rock excavation depends on cut blasting. However, medium-deep hole cutting blasting faces the challenges of large clamping action and unsatisfactory blasting efficiency. The study proposes sectional charge cutting blasting technology and analyzes the mechanism of cavity formation by establishing a numerical model. The results demonstrated that sectional charge blasting in the hole can expand the range of stress waves, and the segment interaction is also optimized by introducing a delay time difference. These factors contribute to an increase in the rock-breaking volume and an improvement in the degree of rock breaking. Furthermore, the cutting effects of different segmented proportional models are quantified. When the upper and lower sections are symmetrically charged, the damage range caused by the upper section is greater. The reason is that the clamping force exerted on the rock mass increases with the depth of the hole. In addition, when the upper section ratio is 0.4, the model exhibits the most excellent cavity volume; this results from charging according to the symmetry principle for optimal energy distribution.
Symmetrical Convergence Rates and Asymptotic Properties of Estimators in a Semi-Parametric Errors-in-Variables Model with Strong Mixing Errors and Missing Responses
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Yan Haiqin , Hu Tingting
Published: November 2024

This paper considers a semi-parametric errors-in-variables (EV) model, ηi=xiβ+g(τi)+ϵi, ξi=xi+δi, 1⩽i⩽n. The properties of estimators are investigated under conditions of missing data and strong mixing errors. Three approaches are used to handle missing data: direct deletion, imputation, and the regression surrogate. Furthermore, estimators for the coefficient β and the nonparametric function g(·) are obtained. Notably, both estimators achieve strong consistency at a rate of o(n−1/4), exhibiting a symmetry in their convergence rates, and they also demonstrate asymptotic normality. Additionally, the validity of our theoretical results is supported by simulations demonstrating the finite sample behaviour of these estimators.
Urban Green Spaces and Healthy Living: A Landscape Architecture Perspective
Authors: Russo Alessio
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the essential role of urban green spaces in fostering healthy living from a landscape architecture perspective. Health goes beyond the mere absence of disease to include physical, mental, and social wellbeing, all of which are greatly enhanced by accessible green spaces. By synthesising existing literature, this paper shows that urban green spaces have strong positive associations with health outcomes, especially in urban settings where environmental stressors are pronounced. The paper stresses the importance of designing attractive and accessible green spaces that encourage physical activity, mental wellbeing, and social interaction, addressing public health issues such as obesity and mental health disorders. In addition to physical and mental health benefits, the paper explores the potential of local food production through edible green infrastructure, such as community gardens, which can significantly improve diet and nutrition. Additionally, the study discusses disparities in the access to quality green spaces, particularly between the Global North and South, and advocates for equitable design strategies that serve diverse populations. Integrating evidence-based approaches into landscape architecture, the paper argues for the establishment of urban green spaces as essential elements of public health infrastructure. Finally, the paper calls for future research and policy efforts to maximise the health benefits of urban green spaces and improve the quality of life in urban environments.
Integration of PV Systems into the Urban Environment: A Review of Their Effects and Energy Models
Authors: Rodrigues André , Oliveira Armando C. , Palmero-Marrero Ana I.
Published: November 2024

Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPVs) consist of PV panels that are integrated into a building as part of its construction. This technology has advantages such as the production of electricity without necessitating additional land area. This paper provides a literature review on recent developments in urban building energy modelling, including tools and methods as well as how they can be used to predict the effect of PV systems on building outdoor and indoor environments. It is also intended to provide a critical analysis on how PV systems affect the urban environment, both from an energy and a comfort point of view. The microclimate, namely the urban heat island concept, is introduced and related to the existence of PV systems. It is concluded that urban building energy models (UBEMs) can be effective in studying the performance of PV systems in the urban environment. It allows one to simultaneously predict building energy performance and microclimate effects. However, there is a need to develop new methodologies to overcome the challenges associated with UBEMs, especially those concerning non-geometric data, which lead to a major source of errors, and to find an effective method to predict the effect of PV systems in the urban environment.
Optimization of Traffic at Uncontrolled Intersections: Comparison of the Effectiveness of Roundabouts, Signal-Controlled Intersections, and Turbo-Roundabouts
Authors: Kalašová Alica , Poliak Miloš , Škorvánková Laura , Fabian Peter
Published: November 2024

This study focuses on optimizing traffic flow at uncontrolled intersections by comparing the effectiveness of different intersection types: roundabouts, signal-controlled intersections, and turbo-roundabouts. The purpose is to determine which type offers the best solution for enhancing traffic efficiency, reducing delays, and improving safety. The research employs simulation-based modeling to analyze traffic performance under varying traffic conditions. Critical parameters such as vehicle flow rate, average delay time, and capacity are used to assess the performance of each intersection type. The results indicate that turbo-roundabouts outperform conventional roundabouts and signal-controlled intersections in terms of both capacity and reduction in delays. The findings suggest that implementing turbo-roundabouts at high-traffic intersections can significantly improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. However, the effectiveness of each solution is context-dependent, with signal-controlled intersections still being advantageous under specific conditions, particularly in highly urbanized areas. This study provides valuable insights for transportation planners and engineers, highlighting the importance of intersection design in traffic optimization.
NSC95397 Is a Novel HIV-1 Latency-Reversing Agent
Authors: Nichols Doyle Randilea , Yang Vivian , Kayode Yetunde I. , Damoiseaux Robert , Taylor Harry E. , Fregoso Oliver I.
Published: November 2024

The latent viral reservoir represents one of the major barriers to curing HIV-1. Focus on the “kick and kill” (also called “shock and kill”) approach, in which virus expression is reactivated, and then cells producing virus are selectively depleted, has led to the discovery of many latency-reversing agents (LRAs) that have furthered our understanding of the mechanisms driving HIV-1 latency and latency reversal. Thus far, individual compounds have yet to be robust enough to work as a therapy, highlighting the importance of identifying new compounds that target novel pathways and synergize with known LRAs. In this study, we identified a promising LRA, NSC95397, from a screen of ~4250 compounds. We validated that NSC95397 reactivates latent viral transcription and protein expression from cells with unique integration events and across different latency models. Co-treating cells with NSC95397 and known LRAs demonstrated that NSC95397 synergizes with different drugs under both standard normoxic and physiological hypoxic conditions. NSC95397 does not globally increase open chromatin, and bulk RNA sequencing revealed that NSC95397 does not greatly increase cellular transcription. Instead, NSC95397 downregulates pathways key to metabolism, cell growth, and DNA repair—highlighting the potential of these pathways in regulating HIV-1 latency. Overall, we identified NSC95397 as a novel LRA that does not largely alter global transcription, shows potential for synergy with known LRAs, and may act through novel pathways not previously recognized for their ability to modulate HIV-1 latency.
Extracellular Vesicles in Viral Liver Diseases
Authors: Kouroumalis Elias , Tsomidis Ioannis , Voumvouraki Argyro
Published: November 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are bilayer vesicles released by cells in the microenvironment of the liver including parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells. They are the third important mechanism in the communications between cells, besides the secretion of cytokines and chemokines and the direct cell-to-cell contact. The aim of this review is to discuss the important role of EVs in viral liver disease, as there is increasing evidence that the transportation of viral proteins, all types of RNA, and viral particles including complete virions is implicated in the pathogenesis of both viral cirrhosis and viral-related hepatocellular carcinoma. The biogenesis of EVs is discussed and their role in the pathogenesis of viral liver diseases is presented. Their use as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers is also analyzed. Most importantly, the significance of possible novel treatment strategies for liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma is presented, although available data are based on experimental evidence and clinical trials have not been reported.