bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Society’s Perceptions on Cultural Ecosystem Services in a Cultural Landscape in Nanchang, China
Authors: Kang Ning , Xie Guanhong , Liu Chunqing
Published: June 2023

Ancient villages are a unique landscape of cultural heritage with both tangible and intangible culture, which provide rich ecosystem services for human beings. Assessment of society’s perceptions on cultural heritage landscapes can improve the integration of cultural heritage values into decision-making processes that affect landscapes, thereby contributing to maximizing the benefits people receive from cultural ecosystem services. Based on this premise, a new sense-based hierarchical assessment framework for a cultural landscape of ancient villages in China from the perspectives of experts and the public was developed in this study. Field research was conducted by the experts to preliminarily extract the evaluation indicators by identifying and refining the characteristics of the landscape perception units based on the classification of village’s landscape resources. The public indicators as supplements were determined by the semantic and social networks generated with ROSTCM tool post-processing, which followed crawling public comments on the tourism platforms with Python. The findings indicated that visual stimulation (57.36%) is the strongest, while touch perception is the weakest (3.56%). The proportion of hearing, smell, and taste was 21.52%, 12.05%, and 5.53%, respectively. Furthermore, people consider variety, historicity, culture, and localism as the core themes of perception in their landscape experiences. The value and usefulness of the sensory experiences for cultural landscape assessment and for decision-making in the context of cultural ecosystem services are discussed.
Research on the Effect of the New Environmental Protection Law on the Market Competitiveness of China’s Heavily Polluting Enterprises
Authors: Liu Tingli , Fang Yu , Shi Qianqian , Ren Lei
Published: June 2023

Based on a difference-in-differences model, this study examines the effect of environmental regulation on the market competitiveness of heavily polluting enterprises, their mechanisms, and the space for effective implementation. Which all listed heavily polluting enterprises between 2010 and 2019 are included as the experimental group, and all other firms in the same industries listed on the Chinese stock market as the control group. The results indicate that environmental regulations have significantly increased the market competitiveness of heavily polluting enterprises in China. Furthermore, China’s New Environmental Protection Law (NEPL) has improved the market competitiveness of heavily polluting enterprises through strategic, flexible mitigation effects. Finally, the NEPL in regions with eastern or non-state enterprises has a significant impact on market competitiveness. The government should further improve laws and regulations for environmental protection, increase environmental regulations, and apply policies based on the differences in heavily polluting enterprises.
Simulation Study on the Impact of Water Flow Regulation Based on the MIKE 21 Model in a River Water Environment
Authors: Xu Cundong , Ren Zihao , Huang Song , Li Jiaming , Zi Yahui , Hu Xiaomeng
Published: June 2023

Inadequate hydrodynamics can cause deterioration of the water environment within rivers. Regulating water conservancy projects can effectively improve the state of the water environment of rivers and promote sustainable regional development. The river plain in Zhejiang Province, China, suffers from severe hydrodynamic deficiencies, which have a significant impact on the state of the regional water environment. To investigate the changing state of the water environment of the river plain under water conservancy project control, in this study we constructed a two-dimensional hydrodynamic–water quality model based on the AD and ECOLAB modules in MIKE 21 software 2014 Edition. Combined with conservative tracers, the changes in the water displacement rate, flow rate, and water environment quality of the river plain were simulated under different regulation schemes over 7 days. A quantitative analysis of the effects of improving the state of the water environment in the river plain was carried out using a cluster analysis and a cloud model. (1) The water replacement rate of the outer river reached 90% after 3 days and approached 100% after 7 days. The water replacement rates of the inner pond were 51.2, 49.6, and 55.8%. This indicated that the engineering control measures effectively improved the replacement capacity of the river. (2) The contents of DO and BOD5 in the river have increased from class V to above class 3. The overall water quality is in the range of classes 2 to 3, and in some parts it can reach class 1. This indicates that the regulatory plan played a certain role in improving the river water environment. (3) The water pollution in the study area showed a fluctuating and decreasing trend over 7 days. There was a positive correlation between the flow velocity, water replacement rate, DO, and BOD5.
Do Subsidy Policy and Transparency Impact Firm Value in the New Energy Industry? Evidence from Data Envelopment Analysis-Based Measurement of Corporate Subsidy Performance
Authors: Chen Yi-Chang , Fu Yi-Xuan , Qiao Yang , Kuo Shih-Ming
Published: June 2023

The new energy industry has long benefited from government subsidies in China. However, the effectiveness of subsidies as a policy tool to guide sustainable development and competition has been widely debated. This paper examines the impact of subsidy policies on the firm value of new energy companies from 2011 to 2018. Initially, we employed data envelopment analysis (DEA) to calculate corporate subsidy performance (CSP). Additionally, we investigated the impact of disclosure transparency on the relationship between government subsidies and firm value. We confirmed the significant negative impacts of subsidies and disclosure on firm value through robustness tests and sensitivity analysis. Furthermore, when considering ownership issues, we found negative impacts on firm value for state-owned firms. In contrast, privately-held firms demonstrated a positive influence on firm value. This study highlights the policy implications of subsidy effectiveness, accurate information disclosure, and corporate social responsibility on the sustainable development of subsidies in the new energy industry.
Innovation Capacity, Entrepreneurial Orientation, and Flexibility: An Analysis from Industrial SMEs in Ecuador
Authors: Anzules-Falcones Wendy , Novillo-Villegas Sylvia
Published: June 2023

Through the methodology of a case study, this paper presents a holistic analysis of the relationship between innovation capacity, entrepreneurial orientation, flexibility, and environmental factors. Three studies were conducted in the context of chemical-pharmaceutical industries, SMEs, in a small economy. Likewise, they analyze the relationship between the innovation capacity and internationalization of those companies. The studies provide further evidence of the relationships between areas of interest, where links among entrepreneurial orientation, flexibility, externalities (local and international), and innovation capacity are clear. Finally, this paper contributes to the theory-building on innovation capacity and internationalization from a scholarly perspective while presenting a practical view for practitioners.
Effects of Rhizophagus intraradices and Acinetobacter calcoaceticus on Soybean Growth and Carbendazim Residue
Authors: Jie Wei-Guang , Tan Yi-Wen , Yang Dong-Ying , Kan Lian-Bao
Published: June 2023

In agricultural production, carbendazim and other pesticides are used to prevent soybean root rot. However, carbendazim degrades slowly and affects a series of biochemical processes such as soil biological nitrogen fixation and soil nutrient activation in the natural environment. This study mainly investigated the effects of Rhizophagus intraradices, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, and carbendazim on soybean biomass, the incidence of root rot, the total number of bacterial colonies and phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria in rhizosphere soil, and carbendazim residue in soybean grains and rhizosphere soil. The results showed that the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) spore density, AMF infection rate, soybean biomass, nodule number, total bacterial colonies, and phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria colonies in the soybean rhizosphere soil were the highest in the R. intraradices and A. calcoaceticus treatment groups under natural soil conditions. Moreover, the incidence of root rot and carbendazim residue in soybean grains and rhizosphere soil were the lowest in the R. intraradices and A. calcoaceticus treatment group under natural soil conditions. This result indicated that R. intraradices and A. calcoaceticus can effectively reduce carbendazim residue in soybean grains and rhizosphere soil. This study provided theoretical support for the development of microbial fertilizer and microbial degradation of pesticide residues and improved the practical basis for ensuring food safety.
The Growth-Promoting Effect of Earthworm Vermiwash on House Tomato Plants
Authors: Akazawa Shin-ichi , Badamkhatan Tsagaankhuu , Omiya Kennosuke , Shimizu Yumi , Hasegawa Nana , Sakai Kazuki , Kamimura Kenji , Takeuchi Akiko , Murakami Yuki
Published: June 2023

Earthworm vermiwash, a by-product of the vermicomposting process and a light-brown-colored liquid rich in macro- and micronutrients that are essential for plant growth, has recently emerged as a potential tool for sustainable agriculture. It is expected to have antimicrobial, antipest, and soil-stabilizing effects. However, little is known about the optimal composition and dosage of vermiwashes, and the long-term stability is still unknown. Here, we investigated the long-term stability of vermiwash content and conducted a growth test on house tomatoes treated with different concentrations of vermiwash. The phosphate and potassium contents of the vermiwash were remarkably stable over time; however, if the initial ammonium content was high, the content changed with temperature, and nitrate-nitrogen was increased. Our results suggested that the vermiwash can be preserved at any temperature as both nitrogen components are helpful for plant growth. The vermiwash treatment outperformed the other two treatments in terms of plant height and fruit size. The threshold vermiwash nitrogen level was approximately 17.5–35 mg/L per week. Although an ideal ratio is advisable, earthworm vermiwash does not inhibit growth even at high concentrations. Thus, vermiwash is a sufficiently stable, beneficial liquid plant fertilizer.
Modeling and Dynamic Simulation of a Phase-Change Material Tank for Powering Chiller Generators in District Cooling Networks
Authors: Ali Emad , Ajbar Abdelhamid , Lamrani Bilal
Published: June 2023

Latent heat storage in district cooling systems (DCS) offers advantages such as energy efficiency, load shifting, and flexibility. It optimizes energy utilization by storing thermal energy during off-peak hours and using it during peak periods. This results in cost savings, a reduced environmental impact, and the enhanced reliability of the cooling system. In the present study, a novel system consisting of a phase-change material (PCM) tank coupled to a 120 kW chiller generator for cooling is proposed. During peak cooling loads, the proposed PCM tank is intended to supply consistent thermal power at an appropriate temperature. The system is modeled using the lumped-capacitance approach, and the effective thermal capacity approach is used to model the PCM’s phase-transition phenomena. The system’s dynamic performance is evaluated, and the impact of various parameters during the PCM-tank discharging process is analyzed. The computational findings are compared to experimental data taken from a real district network, and there is excellent agreement. Results showed that increasing the needed heat rate for the cooling process from 120 kW to 160 kW decreases the PCM tank’s discharging duration by about 20% and increases pump energy consumption. It was also found that increasing the capacity of the PCM tank is advantageous for the cooling process as it extends the duration of 120 kW constant power production by about 62% when the tank volume is increased from 5 m3 to 10 m3. Finally, it was shown that the choice of the PCM type is crucial for improving the cooling performance. Erythritol is a suitable storage medium in the tank compared to A118 and MgCl2·6H2O, and using erythritol instead of PCM A118 increases the period of continuous thermal power generation by about 67%.
Experimental Modeling of CO2 Sorption/Desorption Cycle with MDEA/PZ Blend: Kinetics and Regeneration Temperature
Authors: Wehrung Quentin , Destefanis Enrico , Caviglia Caterina , Bernasconi Davide , Pastero Linda , Bruno Marco , Bernasconi Andrea , Magnetti Vernai Alex , Di Rienzo Alice , Pavese Alessandro
Published: June 2023

CO2 sorption–desorption cycles with a methyldiethanolamine (MDEA)/piperazine (PZ) blend have been performed with a rotoevaporator. Similar to other CO2 separation technologies, the heating involved in MDEA/PZ solvent regeneration is the most energy-intensive step in the overall CO2 separation process. Thus, this study investigated the desorption kinetics under low-pressure (<200 mbar) and low-temperature conditions in the range from 308 to 363 K with the aim of reducing costs. The CO2 desorption time to unload the samples from ~2.35 mol/kg to below the threshold of 1 mol/kg was reduced from 500 s at 333 K to 90 s at 363 K. The Avrami–Erofoyev model was found to fit the experimental kinetic data accurately. The Arrhenius law calculations provided an activation energy of the CO2 desorption process equal to 76.39 kJ/mol. It was demonstrated that the combination of a pressure reduction and the increase in temperature resulted in an enhancement of the desorption kinetics, especially at low temperatures. The combined effect of these two factors resulted in higher desorption kinetics compared to the individual effects of either factor alone. Solvent regeneration at a low temperature was demonstrated to be a valid option when coupled with pressure reduction.
Industrial Park Renovation Strategy in a Poverty-Alleviated County Based on Inefficient Land Evaluation
Authors: Dong Wenli , Gao Xinyue , Chen Xiaowei , Lin Lihan
Published: June 2023

China has entered a new era of high-quality urban development. As an important stock resource in the city, old industrial parks face new situations of transformation and regeneration due to various problems such as chaotic land layout, low industrial efficiency, and lack of supporting facilities. However, existing research primarily focuses on case studies in large cities and rural areas, lacking fine-tuned adjustment plans for county-level cities in China. Therefore, this article aims to establish a decision-making and evaluation framework applicable to economically underdeveloped areas, providing a reference for the transformation of inefficient industrial land in county-level cities nationwide. Based on expert consultation, case studies, and other methods, a low-efficiency land evaluation model is constructed from three dimensions: spatial efficiency, operational efficiency, and industry screening, to tap the potential value of stock land. The research data are primarily provided by government departments and processed and quantified using GIS software. Based on the quantitative evaluation results of the Shengfang Industrial Park in Lianhua County, Jiangxi Province, three major strategic directions for land parcels with different renewal potentials are proposed: retention and improvement, rectification and renewal, and redevelopment and utilization. Targeted renewal strategies for the case industrial park are proposed from the aspects of spatial renewal and implementation mode guidance. The results of this study could provide suggestions for local government decision-making, which could contribute to the improvement of resource utilization efficiency and economic benefits. The findings could also provide references for the planning and development of industrial parks in other impoverished counties. Future research could focus on long-term monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and the application of evaluation results.
Case-Guided Multi-Project Synchronized Implementation Strategy in Object-Oriented Analysis and Design Course Teaching
Authors: Yao Dunhong , Gao Yanxia
Published: June 2023

To address the challenges in teaching object-oriented analysis and design, such as abstract course content, limited practical skills among students, difficulty stimulating interest, and difficulty in achieving high-quality and inclusive education, based on an in-depth analysis of the course’s knowledge system and teaching objectives, we proposed an innovative teaching strategy from the perspective of sustainable development. This strategy takes the analysis and design of software projects selected by students as the main focus and teacher case guidance as the entry point, connecting theoretical knowledge and teaching practice, and is called “case guidance multi-project synchronous implementation”. Simultaneously, we reshaped the teaching process and reformed the course assessment to adapt to this new teaching strategy. The results of its implementation show that this strategy not only helped students to better understand and apply object-oriented analysis and design but also enhanced their interest and sense of access to the course, successfully improving the achievement of the course objectives and significantly promoting students’ innovation and practical skills, providing an effective way to achieve high-quality and inclusive education and the promotion of lifelong learning. The successful implementation of this teaching strategy provides a strong reference for teaching reform in similar courses.
Site Index Curves for Abies borisii-regis Mattf. and Fagus sylvatica L. Mixed Stands in Central Greece
Authors: Dais Georgios , Kitikidou Kyriaki , Milios Elias
Published: June 2023

Despite their productivity, fir and beech forests in Greece lack site index curves. In this work, site index curves for Fagus sylvatica and Abies borisii-regis in central Greece were developed. Thirty plots were randomly established in the mixed stands of F. sylvatica–A. borisii-regis in Aspropotamos, central Greece, and two dominant trees, one from each species, were randomly selected and cut. Height–age measurements were collected through stem analysis. These data were used to develop site index curves for each species. The site index curves illustrate a growth rate difference between the two species, specifically in the worst sites, with fir growing faster than beech. Additionally, as trees age, the growth difference between the two species in the best sites decreases. Based on these results, F. sylvatica is found to be more site-sensitive than A. borisii-regis. In the new adverse conditions of global warming, an increased knowledge of the site sensitivity of the two species will help to develop appropriate treatments for the conservation of the studied mixed stands, or at least to minimize negative impacts.
Undergraduate Internship on Yamuna River Exploration: Raising Awareness about SDG6
Authors: Gupta Sunita , Kulshreshtha Parul , Aggarwal Divya , Sharma Deuvshree
Published: June 2023

A semester-long internship was designed for undergraduate students at the University of Delhi, India. Teams comprising 30 students from all over the University were trained to carry out field exploration activities on the Yamuna River flowing in Delhi. The students were provided with portable kits to measure the physicochemical parameters at a selected bank of the Yamuna River. Students documented the invertebrate fauna in the riparian zone of the banks. At the same time, they noted the anthropogenic polluting activities on the bank of the Yamuna River. This internship educated students about the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They all studied Ecology and Environmental Science in their undergraduate curriculum, but they all confessed that they were unaware of the 17 SDGs and the deteriorating health of the Yamuna River in the city. We educated students about the freshwater emergency recovery plan and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list of ecosystems. This internship is a great example of an undergraduate-directed study or research experience that supported student constructivism and inquiry-based learning, and this research article elaborates on student reports and situational interest in freshwater biology to achieve SDG6.
How Does Internet Use Promote Returned Migrant Workers’ Entrepreneurship: Evidence from Rural China
Authors: Xue Yashuo , Kong Mei , Chen Ruiying , Wang Qingmin , Shen Yangyang , Zhuang Jiakun
Published: June 2023

Entrepreneurship is the driving force behind the creation of rural employment opportunities and the promotion of the sustainable development of the rural economy. Based on the data of five rounds of national surveys covering the period from 2010 to 2018 conducted by the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), this paper uses probit and other regression models to empirically study the impact of internet use on the entrepreneurship of returned migrant workers. The results show that the use of the internet can not only increase the probability of returned migrant workers starting a business but also increase the scale of entrepreneurial investment by 18% and the number of enterprises founded by 36%, which is particularly prominent among those rural areas with great potential for internet penetration. In rural areas with low levels of internet application, governments should continue to increase the level of support aimed at assisting returned migrant workers with founding their own businesses, to focus on enhancing the information literacy of returned migrant workers, and to accelerate the construction of information technology in rural areas with backward internet infrastructure to drive sustainable economic development through entrepreneurship.
Optimization of Swivel Spherical Hinge Structure Design Based on the Response Surface Method
Authors: Liu Shang , Liu Jie , Huang Yafei , Zheng Yuanxun
Published: June 2023

The accurate analysis of key components of a spherical hinge structure directly affects bridge quality and safety during construction. Considering the key components of a spherical joint structure as the research object, a refined calculation model for the spherical joint is established to examine its stress using finite element analysis. The influence of design parameters on the mechanical characteristics of the spherical hinge structure is systematically analyzed. The response surface method (RSM), devised using a Box–Behnken design, is used to optimize the design of the spherical hinge structure parameters. A response surface model is established to derive the scheme of the optimized spherical hinge structure design. Moreover, by comparing the structural contact stress and rotational traction force before and after optimization, the effectiveness and necessity of the spherical hinge structure optimization are verified. The result comparison shows that the maximum contact stress and rotational traction force in the spherical hinge structure after optimization are reduced by 13.86% and 8.42%, respectively, compared with those before optimization. The relative error between the calculated and predicted values is approximately 3%, indicating that the RSM is feasible for optimizing key components of the spherical hinge structure. Its optimization effect is evident. Based on the identified optimal parameters of the spherical hinge structure, a range of recommended design parameters for the key structure of the rotating spherical hinge at different load carrying capacities is established using the interpolation method, which provides a valuable reference for engineering practice.
A New Product Configuration Model for Low Product Cost and Carbon-Neutral Expenditure
Authors: Zou Guangyu , Li Zhongkai , He Chao
Published: June 2023

In the background of global carbon-neutral requirements, enterprises need to control carbon emissions in the process of product lifecycles in order to gain market competitive advantages. Previous product configuration studies, mostly focused on minimizing carbon dioxide emissions, have ignored the issue of carbon-neutral costs. This study quantifies the product costs borne by enterprises and the carbon-neutral cost borne by the government, respectively. A carbon-neutral cost model for suppliers, enterprises, customers, and recycling plants in the whole life cycle of products was constructed. The whole life cycle carbon emissions and the unit carbon removal costs were taken into account in the carbon-neutral cost model. By minimizing product and carbon-neutral costs, a bi-objective integer programming model was constructed. The NSGA-II algorithm was introduced to solve the Pareto front of the model. The feasibility and effectiveness of this method were then illustrated through a case study and results comparison. It showed that, compared with the scheme of carbon emissions reduction, the optimization scheme with carbon-neutral costs as the object had a significant change. Integrating carbon-neutral costs into product development activities was effective in reducing the enterprise’s product cost and the government’s financial expenditure on carbon removal simultaneously. The proposed model could provide a win–win product configuration scheme for the government and enterprises.
Policy Transfer Framework in the Environmental Governance of Non-EU and EU Member Countries: A Comparative Analysis of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia
Authors: Alibašić Haris , Atkinson Christopher L.
Published: June 2023

This study offers a comprehensive examination of environmental governance within the European Union (EU), focusing on the comparative experiences of Bosnia and Herzegovina (a non-EU member) and Croatia (an EU member). The research uses policy transfer theory to investigate the practicality and effectiveness of EU-led environmental initiatives when implemented at state and local levels. The study reveals a disconnect between these initiatives and their execution, with corruption and fragile political arrangements identified as significant barriers to environmental protection. The research further underscores the complex nature of EU-driven environmental governance policies and the impact of post-war political agreements and transitional struggles on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s and Croatia’s governance structures. The methodology involves a detailed analysis of the legal frameworks, policies, and plans employed by the EU and the countries under study. The results highlight the importance of context and capacity in evaluating the effectiveness of environmental governance. The study contributes to understanding environmental governance in the EU context and provides insights into the challenges and opportunities for policy transfer to state-level governments.
Lack of Collaboration on the CEP Market and the Underlying Reasons—A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Bartucz Csilla , Buics László , Süle Edit
Published: June 2023

The scientific community has been addressing the topic of last-mile delivery for years. To improve parcel delivery efficiency, a variety of different technologies have been created. Over the past 15 years, the focus has shifted from the operational efficiency of the individual organization to restoring sustainability and making cities more livable. As a result of the increased environmental burden, governments are enacting a growing number of restrictive measures, which will intensify economic challenges. To remain competitive, more cost-effective solutions are required. The goal of this article is to examine the significance of collaboration between CEP partners based on scientific interest, with the help of a systematic literature review. This examination is important since, despite the fact that working together with other service providers and competitors could be a favorable option for last mile suppliers looking to improve their efficiency, results show little interest in this approach. Although this strategy appears straightforward due to the potential financial and environmental benefits, there are only a few examples of collaboration in the field of last mile parcel delivery according to the results of the review. Since cooperation seems to be an inevitable operating model of the CEP market in the future, it is of utmost importance for scientific research to investigate the factors hindering the development of cooperation.
Evaluation Study on the Layout of Community Senior Living Facilities in the Main Area of Shanghai from the Perspective of Senior Life Circle
Authors: Wang Ning , Ma Wenjun
Published: June 2023

The senior life circle is the basic unit space for building a high quality of senior living in the city, and the service level of the community senior facilities within it is directly related to the daily quality of life of the elderly residents. From the perspective of daily life needs, this study constructs a community senior living facility system consisting of “three levels, six categories and fourteen items”. Taking the main urban area of Shanghai as an example, the relationship between the supply and demand of community senior facilities and senior residents is studied from two perspectives: facility coverage and facility accessibility. The results show that: (1) the community senior living facilities system needs to be improved; (2) there are large gaps in the configuration of care facilities and living facilities; (3) the number of facilities served per capita shows the characteristics of “high value concentration in the center, middle value concentration in the transition area, and peripheral mixed”. The study recommends improving the construction of the facility system, broadening the service supply channels, enhancing the accessibility of facilities by grading and zoning, and promoting the sharing of facilities across administrative boundaries.
Environmental Impact of Different Business Models: An LCA Study of Fresh Tomato Production in Italy
Authors: Solimene Silvia , Coluccia Daniela , Bernardo Alessandro
Published: June 2023

This paper aims to define and measure the environmental impacts associated with three distinct industry techniques used in the production of fresh tomatoes, from planting to harvesting. A comparative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is conducted to evaluate the environmental performance of producing one kilogram of fresh processing tomatoes. The study includes three Italian companies representing different Business Models: standard production, integrated production, and precision farming. The impact evaluation method used is ReCiPe, at both midpoint and endpoint levels. The results reveal that the adoption of advanced technology, such as precision farming, in managing the agricultural production of fresh tomatoes leads to a significant reduction in environmental impacts across all categories analyzed. Interestingly, the largest contribution to climate-changing gases comes from the use of fertilizers. Precision farming demonstrates a remarkable reduction of CO2 emissions by 52% compared to integrated production and 67% compared to standard production. This analysis provides valuable insights for managers and policymakers in developing strategies for large-scale, sustainable production using innovative techniques. The main contribution of this study lies in comparing the performance of three different Business Models employed in Italian fresh tomato production.
Correction: Borgi et al. Environmental Change and Inclusive Finance: Does Governance Quality Matter for African Countries? Sustainability 2023, 15, 3533
Authors: Borgi Hela , Mabrouk Fatma , Bousrih Jihen , Mekni Mohamed Mehdi
Published: June 2023

The authors would like to make the following corrections about the published paper [...]
Triaxial Creep Damage Model for Salt Rock Based on Fractional Derivative
Authors: Zhao Xinbo , Chen Heng , Lv Jian , He Xiaohong , Qin Yiwei , Sun Keming
Published: June 2023

The long-term stability of underground energy reserves is closely linked to salt rock creep. To study the creep behavior of salt rock, creep tests were conducted on salt rock specimens under various confining pressures and axial stresses. The test results reveal that the creep of salt rock is influenced by the combined effect of confining pressure and deviatoric stress, which represents the difference between axial and confining pressure. Subsequently, a long-term strength and time-controlled viscoplastic damage body is proposed by considering the plastic deformation in the steady-state creep stage. The viscoplastic damage body is connected in series with the fractional-order Maxwell model to form a new six-element nonlinear creep model generalized to three-dimensional form. The applicability of the new model was verified using triaxial creep test data of salt rock, and it was found to describe the creep curve more accurately compared to the Nishihara model. A sensitivity analysis of the model parameters indicates that different parameters affect various creep stages, and creep curves under different loads can be adjusted by changing these parameters.
In Search of Sustainable Economy Definition: A Qatari Perspective
Authors: Al-Thani Mishal J. , Koç Muammer
Published: June 2023

This paper aims to assess Sustainable Economy (SE) features and validate them by using sustainability experts residing in Qatar to suggest an expanded and improved definition of SE. Fifteen features of SE have been identified via a comparative literature review and validated by sustainability experts in Qatar. The study significantly strengthens and validates the features of SE and provides analysis of some of these features by the authors. The paper suggests that SE should be defined as “a value-based, dynamic, and balanced economic system that meets the needs of all living species today while remaining within ecological and social boundaries, without compromising the system’s capacity to meet all future needs of all living species”. This is the only paper that uses Qatari experts to research SE features. The limitation of the research is the inclusion of a small sample size of experts within Qatar due to the limited number of experts in the field of sustainability and their willingness to participate.
Investigation of Load-Bearing Capacity for Reinforced Concrete Foundation Retrofitted Using Steel Strut–Tie Retrofit System
Authors: Shin Jiuk , Lee Kihak
Published: June 2023

To reduce the thickness of reinforced concrete foundation members used in construction and structural applications, a previous study developed and tested a strut–tie retrofit system installed in the foundations. This study proposes the optimum retrofit details of a steel-tie retrofit system for foundation members with reduced thickness via a finite element simulation-based load-bearing capacity assessment. The retrofit parameters (structural steel type, plate thickness, and number of strut frames) that significantly affected the load-bearing capacities were optimized by comparing the maximum effective stress and code-defined allowable stress limits. The optimum retrofit details were compared with those computed using a code-defined strut–tie model. Based on the load-bearing capacity assessment for the design of loading combinations, the optimum retrofit details can be reduced in transverse (by 55%) and longitudinal (by 87%) directions compared with those designed using the strut–tie model approach.
The Application of Clinoptilolite as the Green Catalyst in the Solvent-Free Oxidation of α-Pinene with Oxygen
Authors: Grzeszczak Jadwiga , Wróblewska Agnieszka , Kiełbasa Karolina , Koren Zvi C. , Michalkiewicz Beata
Published: June 2023

In this work, we present the catalytic application of the naturally occurring zeolite, clinoptilolite, in the oxidation of α-pinene, a natural terpene compound. Clinoptilolites with different average particle sizes, designated as (in μm) clin_1 (20), clin_2 (50), clin_3 (200), and clin_4 (500–1000), were used as the green catalysts in the solvent-free oxidation of α-pinene with oxygen. Prior to their application in catalytic tests, the catalysts were characterized by the following methods: nitrogen sorption at 77 K, EDXRF, XRD, SEM, UV-Vis, and FTIR. The effects of the temperature, amount of the catalyst, and reaction time on the product’s selectivity and α-pinene conversion were determined. At the optimal conditions (a temperature of 100 °C, catalyst content (clin_4) in the reaction mixture of 0.05 wt%, and 210 min reaction time), the following compounds were obtained as the main products: α-pinene oxide (selectivity 29 mol%), verbenol (selectivity 17 mol%), and verbenone (selectivity 13 mol%). The conversion of α-pinene under these conditions amounted to 35 mol%. Additionally, the kinetic modeling of α-pinene oxidation over the most active catalyst (clin_4) was performed. The proposed method of oxidation is environmentally safe because it does not require the separation of products from the solvent. In addition, this method allows for managing the biomass in the form of turpentine, which is the main source of α-pinene. The catalytic application of clinoptilolite in the oxidation of α-pinene has not yet been reported in the literature.
Gaining Profound Knowledge of Cholera Outbreak: The Significance of the Allee Effect on Bacterial Population Growth and Its Implications for Human-Environment Health
Authors: Kolaye Guilsou Gabriel , Aziz-Alaoui Moulay-Ahmed , Houé Ngouna Raymond , Archimede Bernard , Bowong Samuel
Published: June 2023

Cholera is a bacterial disease that is commonly transmitted through contaminated water, leading to severe diarrhea and rapid dehydration that can prove fatal if left untreated. The complexity of the disease spread arises from the convergence of several distinct and interrelated factors, which previous research has often failed to consider. A significant scientific limitation of the existing literature is the simplistic assumption of linear or logistic dynamics of the disease spread, thereby impeding a thorough assessment of the effectiveness of control strategies. Since environmental factors are the most influential determinant of Vibrio bacterial growth in nature and are responsible for the resurgence, propagation, and disappearance of cholera epidemics, we have proposed a S-I-R-S model that combines bacterial dynamics with the Allee effect. This model takes into account the environmental influence and allows for a better understanding of the disease dynamics. Our results have revealed the phenomenon of bi-stability, with backward and forward bifurcation. Furthermore, our findings have demonstrated that the Allee effect provides a robust framework for characterizing fluctuations in bacterial populations and the onset of cholera outbreaks. This framework can be used for assessing the effectiveness of control strategies, including regular environmental sanitation programs, adherence to hygiene protocols, and monitoring of unfavorable weather conditions.
The Impact of Green Technology Investment Levels on Competitive Supply Chain Integration Decisions
Authors: Zhang Xiaomeng , Zhang Jianjun , Yue Xiongping , Qian Wenjun
Published: June 2023

The current study focuses on vertical supply chain integration, with a special emphasis on the competitive environment of green investment markets and green investments. The current study investigates the relationship between the final product’s green service level and integration and non-integration methods within two separate supply chain models, namely the Nash competition and Stackelberg game models. To attain its goals, the study utilises an inverse derivation technique and comparative analysis. The current study investigates the best integration approach depending on the level of environmental investment in the supply chain’s final product. The findings revealed that the inter-chain rivalry in green investment and the sensitivity coefficient associated with green investment impacted the integration decisions of competing chains in the Nash competition. Furthermore, when the coefficient of the sensitivity to green investment was greater than 0.375, the choice to integrate logistics service supply chains in a horizontal Nash competition was independent of the amount of service competition intensity. In such cases, taking a different strategy than the rival chain might potentially increase the grade of eco-friendly services provided by one’s own chain.
Alteration in Hydrologic Regimes and Dominant Influencing Factors in the Upper Heilong-Amur River Basin across Three Decades
Authors: Zhang Kaiwen , Ma Kai , Leng Jiwei , He Daming
Published: June 2023

The Heilong-Amur river basin (HARB) is the largest transboundary river in Asia and is primarily located in its cold region. With global warming and geopolitical cooperation strengthening between Russia and China, the hydrology change and water security risks are receiving increasing attention. This study utilized the linear regression, Mann–Kendall, and cumulative anomaly methods to analyze changes observed in the upper HARB’s streamflow and water levels over 30 years. The collation of outcomes derived from the methods mentioned above, the indicators of the hydrological alterations process, and the range of variability approach method (IHA–RVA), coupled with results gleaned from the double cumulative curve method, facilitate a thorough evaluation of the perturbations in hydrologic indicators, as well as the impacts of anthropogenic activities. The results showed that the overall hydrological regimes of both streamflow and water levels at the Luoguhe (LGH), the Shangmachang (SMC), and the Kalunshan (KLS) displayed a mild decrease from 1988 to 2017. The streamflow decreased by 58%, 42%, and 38%, and water levels decreased by 48%, 53%, and 59%, respectively, at each station after the mutations. LGH station recorded the highest decrease rate in streamflow at 8.28 × 108 m3/a, whereas the steepest rate of decline in water levels was observed at KLS station at 0.05 m/a. Despite the decreasing trend in the high pulse count of streamflow across the three stations, a slight increase in the high pulse duration of streamflow was noted at SMC and KLS. Precipitation changes were the primary driving force behind runoff alterations, contributing 62%, 84%, and 90% at LGH, SMC, and KLS, respectively, significantly higher than the contribution from anthropogenic activities (38%, 16%, and 10%, respectively). These findings also underscore the suitability of the methodologies employed in this study for application in cold regions.
A Droop-Controlled Interlink Converter for a Dual DC Bus Nanogrid with Decentralized Control
Authors: Malkawi Ahmad M. A. , AL-Quraan Ayman , Lopes Luiz A. C.
Published: June 2023

This paper proposed a dual DC bus nanogrid with 380 V and 48 V buses and allows the integration of distributed energy resources on two buses. The proposed system employs an interlink converter to enable power sharing between the buses. The integration of distributed energy resources has been found to enhance the reliability of the low-voltage bus in comparison to those that lack such integration. The integration process requires the introduction of a new V-I curve for the interlink converter within a DC nanogrid controlled by DC bus signaling and droop control. Furthermore, selecting a power electronics converter for the interlink converter is essential. This paper employs a dual active bridge with galvanic isolation as an interlink converter and proposes a control strategy for the converter that relies on DC bus signaling and droop control. Moreover, this control methodology serves the purpose of preventing any detrimental impact of the interlink converter on the DC buses through the reprogramming of the V-I curve. Subsequently, the suggested control methodology underwent simulation testing via MATLAB/Simulink, which included two different test categories. Initially, the DAB was evaluated as an interlink converter, followed by a comprehensive assessment of the interlink converter in a complete dual DC bus nanogrid. The results indicate that the DAB has the potential to function as an interlink converter while the suggested control approach effectively manages the power sharing between the two buses.
The Sustainability of Regional Innovation in China: Insights from Regional Innovation Values and Their Spatial Distribution
Authors: Zhang Yipeng
Published: June 2023

As the continuous improvement of the quality of innovation becomes increasingly significant for balanced regional development in China, it is critical to provide insights into the sustainability of regional innovation in China from the viewpoint of value. This study estimates regional innovation values based on an improved regional innovation value model incorporating patent values and a regional innovation indicator system. Data for invention patents as well as regional innovation indicators in 282 cities from 1987 to 2019 in China are utilized for estimation. Based on the estimated parameters and Monte Carlo simulation, city-level innovation values are calculated as benchmarks, along with provincial and regional innovation values, to analyze the patterns of the spatial distribution and agglomeration of regional innovation value. The findings are as follows. (1) The regional innovation value model provides an effective way to measure regional innovation in terms of value. (2) The regional innovation values are unevenly distributed; cities with higher innovation values are clustered in Eastern China, while most other cities have much lower innovation values. (3) The innovation values in Eastern China are notably higher, and the differences in innovation values between Eastern China and other regions are large and show a trend of first widening and then narrowing during the sample period. (4) The sustainability of regional innovation is not widely achieved, since highly concentrated innovation value is found in only a few regions in the eastern coastal areas. These findings suggest that promoting China’s innovation capacity and the sustainable development of technological innovation requires continually implementing innovation-driven development strategies, cultivating high-value innovation, optimizing industrial transfer, improving the layout of the national research infrastructure, giving full play to spatial spillover effects, and promoting interregional innovation information exchange in order to achieve the balanced and sustainable development of regional innovation.
The GHZ Theorem Revisited within the Framework of Gauge Theory
Authors: Oaknin David H.
Published: June 2023

The Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger version of the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) paradox is widely regarded as a conclusive logical argument that rules out the possibility of reproducing the predictions of Quantum Mechanics within the framework of any physical theory sharing the notions of reality and relativistic causality that we acknowledge as a given in our classical descriptions of the macroscopic world. Thus, this renowned argument stands as a seemingly insurmountable roadblock on the path to a very desired, physically intuitive understanding of quantum phenomena and, in particular, quantum entanglement. In this paper, we notice, however, that the GHZ argument involves unaccounted spurious gauge degrees of freedom and that it can be overcome once these degrees are properly taken into account. It is then possible to explicitly build a successful statistical model for the GHZ experiment based on the usual notions of relativistic causality and physical reality. This model, thus, completes—in the EPR sense—the quantum description of the GHZ state and paves the way to a novel intuitive interpretation of the quantum formalism and a deeper understanding of the physical reality that it describes.