bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Footprints in Food Services: A Scoping Review
Authors: Guimarães Nathalia Sernizon , Reis Marcela Gomes , Costa Bruna Vieira de Lima , Zandonadi Renata Puppin , Carrascosa Conrado , Teixeira-Lemos Edite , Costa Cristina A. , Alturki Hmidan A. , Raposo António
Published: July 2024

The collective meals market generates significant revenue for the world economy. Food services are responsible for consuming large amounts of water and energy, as well as generating a substantial volume of waste, which is often improperly disposed of. Given the unchecked expansion of food services, the lack of proper management of environmental resources can undermine sustainability principles, posing a threat to future generations. This scoping review aimed to synthesize the existing scientific literature on carbon and water footprints in food services, describing the main methods and tools used and what strategies have been proposed to mitigate the high values of these footprints. The search for articles was performed on 6 June 2024 in seven electronic databases, using MeSH Terms and adaptations for each database from database inception. The search for local studies was complemented by a manual search in the list of references of the studies selected to compose this review. It included quantitative studies assessing footprints (water or carbon) in food services and excluded reviews, studies that reported footprints for diets, and protocols. A total of 2642 studies were identified, and among these, 29 were selected for this review. According to the findings, it was observed that meats, especially beef, contribute more to water and carbon footprint compared to other proteins. Mitigation strategies for the water footprint include promoting plant-based diets, menu changes, and awareness.
Exploring Determinants of Successful Weight Loss with the Use of a Smartphone Healthcare Application: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Shi Yutong , Sasaki Yuki , Ishimura Keiko , Mizuno Shinichiro , Nakata Yoshio
Published: July 2024

Dietary and physical activity interventions through smartphone healthcare applications (apps) have recently surged in popularity as effective methods for weight loss. However, the specific factors contributing to successful weight loss remain uncertain. We conducted an analysis of baseline characteristics and app usage frequencies over three months among 68 Japanese adults with overweight and obesity who were assigned to the intervention group in a previous randomized controlled trial. Logistic regression analysis revealed a negative association (OR: 0.248; p = 0.018) between having a walking habit at baseline and successful weight loss, defined as a 3% reduction in initial weight. Additionally, slower walking speeds and family medical history were identified as potential predictors of successful weight loss. These findings offer insights into the profile of individuals who achieve success in weight loss through our smartphone app, providing valuable guidance for the development of future healthcare apps.
Suitability of Selected Apple Varieties for People with Allergies and Diabetes
Authors: Aninowski Mateusz , Leszczyńska Joanna , Bonikowski Radosław , Ponder Alicja , Hallmann Ewelina , Grzyb Małgorzata , Szymczak Kamil
Published: July 2024

The study aimed to select apple varieties suitable for allergy sufferers and people with diabetes. The total polyphenol content, sugar content, acidity, and antioxidant activity of the apple fruit juices were determined using spectrophotometric techniques. The allergenic content in the apple juices was also measured. The strength of sensitisation was assessed using the ELISA method. Given their minimal content of both profilins and Bet v 1 homologues, Koksa Pomarańczowa (4.24 ± 0.08 µg/g Bet v 1 and 4.49 ± 0.82 ng/g profilins) and Książę Albrecht Pruski (5.57 ± 0.07 µg/g Bet v 1 and 3.34 ± 0.09 ng/g profilins) were identified as suitable for people with allergies. For people with diabetes, the most suitable apple variety was found to be Jakub Lebel, providing large doses of antioxidants and polyphenols (41.10 ± 0.20 and 5.16 ± 0.42, respectively) and a relatively low sugar content (9.06 g/100 g).
Storage Life of Particle-Filled Polymer Composites Considering Aging Effects
Authors: Zhang Yujiao , Fang Congli , Wang Huizhen , Zhang Minghua , Shen Tao , Du Jianke
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the storage life of particle-filled polymer composites (PFPCs) under the influence of aging effects. High-temperature accelerated aging tests were conducted at 60 °C, 70 °C, and 80 °C for various days to analyze the impact of aging time and temperature on the mechanical behavior of the materials. A predictive model for crosslink density was established using the Arrhenius equation, and the relationship between crosslink density and relaxation modulus was determined based on polymer physics theory. On this basis, a viscoelastic constitutive model that incorporates aging effects was developed. Structural analyses of a PFPC column with a length of 2.3 m and outer diameter of 1.8 m were performed using the UMAT subroutine in ABAQUS. Subsequently, a safety margin assessment method based on dewetting strain was employed to predict the storage life of the PFPC column. The results indicate that the aging viscoelastic constitutive model effectively characterizes the hardening effects caused by aging in the composites during storage. The storage life for the PFPC column considering aging effects decreases from 22 years to 19 years compared to models that ignore such effects. This approach provides a reference for estimating the storage life of PFPC columns considering aging effects.
Investigation of Friction Stir Welding of Additively Manufactured Biocompatible Thermoplastics Using Stationary Shoulder and Assisted Heating
Authors: Rendas Pedro , Figueiredo Lígia , Melo Pedro , Galhano Carlos , Vidal Catarina , Soares Bruno A. R.
Published: July 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, offers many advantages and, particularly in the medical field, it has stood out for its potential for the manufacture of patient-specific implantable devices. Thus, the unique properties of 3D-printed biocompatible polymers such as Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) have made these materials the focus of recent research where new post-processing and joining techniques need to be investigated. This study investigates the weldability of PLA and PEEK 3D-printed plates through stationary shoulder friction stir welding (SS-FSW) with assisted heating. An SS-FSW apparatus was developed to address the challenges of rotating shoulder FSW of thermoplastics, with assisted heating either through the shoulder or through the backing plate, thus minimizing material removal defects in the welds. Successful welds revealed that SS-FSW improves surface quality in both PLA and PEEK welds compared to rotating shoulder tools. Process parameters for PLA welds are investigated using the Taguchi method, emphasizing the importance of lower travel speeds to achieve higher joint efficiencies. In PEEK welds, the heated backing plate proved effective in increasing process heat input and reducing cooldown rates which were associated with higher crystallinity PEEK. Despite these findings, further research is needed to improve the weld strength of SS-FSW with these materials considering aspects like tool design, process stability, and 3D printing parameters. This investigation emphasizes the potential of SS-FSW in the assembly of thermoplastic materials, offering insights into the weldability of additively manufactured biocompatible polymers like PLA and PEEK.
Study on the Occurrence Characteristics of the Remaining Oil in Sandstone Reservoirs with Different Permeability after Polymer Flooding
Authors: Sun Xianda , Suo Limin , Huang Yuanjing , Wang Hongyu , Yu Han , Xu Chengwu , Xu Jian , Qin Xudong , Sun Wenying , Cao Yangdong , Liu Tao
Published: July 2024

After polymer flooding, the heterogeneity between different layers intensifies, forming intricate seepage channels and fluid diversions, which results in decreased circulation efficiency and lower recovery rates, leaving a significant amount of residual oil trapped within the reservoir. Understanding the characteristics of residual oil occurrence is crucial for enhancing oil recovery post-polymer flooding. This study focused on sandstone reservoirs with varying permeability in the Saertu block of the Daqing oilfield. Using cryosectioning and laser scanning confocal microscopy, the occurrence characteristics of the residual oil in these sandstone reservoirs post-polymer flooding were investigated. Additionally, micro-CT and scanning electron microscopy were employed to analyze the impact of the pore structure on the distribution characteristics of the residual oil. The results indicate that laser scanning confocal images reveal that post-polymer flooding, the residual oil in high- and low-permeability sandstone reservoirs predominantly exists in a bound state (average > 47%), mostly as particle-adsorbed oil. In contrast, the residual oil in medium-permeability reservoirs is primarily in a free state (average > 49%), mostly as intergranular-adsorbed oil. In high-permeability sandstone reservoirs, heavy oil components are mainly in a particle-adsorbed form; in medium-permeability sandstone reservoirs, residual oil predominantly consists of heavy components, with most light components occurring in a clustered form; in low-permeability sandstone reservoirs, clustered residual oil exists in a balanced coexistence of light and heavy components, while the heavy components primarily exist in a particle-adsorbed form. Post-polymer flooding, the large pore–throat structure in high-permeability sandstone reservoirs results in effective displacement and less free residual oil; medium-permeability sandstone reservoirs, with medium–large pores and throats, have preferential channels and fine particles blocking the throats, leading to some unswept pores and more free residual oil; low-permeability sandstone reservoirs, with small pores and throats, exhibit weak displacement forces and poor mobility, resulting in more bound residual oil. The distribution and content of clay particles and clay minerals, along with the complex microscopic pore structure, are the main factors causing the differences in the residual oil occurrence states in sandstones with varying permeability.
Identifying Factors Influencing Surface Deformations from Underground Mining Using SAR Data, Machine Learning, and the SHAP Method
Authors: Cieślik Konrad , Milczarek Wojciech , Warchala Ewa , Kosydor Paweł , Rożek Robert
Published: July 2024

The article presents the results of significance analyses of selected mining and geological variables for an area of underground mining activity. The study area was a region of an underground copper ore mine located in southwest Poland. The input data consisted of satellite radar data from the Sentinel 1 mission as well as mining and geological data. The line-of-sight subsidence, calculated with the use of the small baseline subset method and arranged in time series, was decomposed to extract the vertical component. The significance analysis of individual variables for the observed surface subsidence was performed using the SHapley Additive exPlanations method for the XGBoost machine learning model. The results of the analysis showed that the observed ground surface subsidence velocities were most influenced by the thickness of the PZ3 layer, which is located approximately 200 m above the roof of the mined seam, the thickness of the seam, and the timing of mining. It was also found that the proposed model was able to detect a nonlinear relationship between the analyzed excavations. The most significant influence on ground subsidence over mine excavations are mining parameters such as the spatially averaged thickness of the deposit and the time since liquidation of the deposit. The proposed approach can be successfully employed in planning both mining operations and mine closure in such a manner that the environmental impact is minimized.
Current Diagnostic Techniques for Pneumonia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kanwal Kehkashan , Asif Muhammad , Khalid Syed Ghufran , Liu Haipeng , Qurashi Aisha Ghazal , Abdullah Saad
Published: July 2024

Community-acquired pneumonia is one of the most lethal infectious diseases, especially for infants and the elderly. Given the variety of causative agents, the accurate early detection of pneumonia is an active research area. To the best of our knowledge, scoping reviews on diagnostic techniques for pneumonia are lacking. In this scoping review, three major electronic databases were searched and the resulting research was screened. We categorized these diagnostic techniques into four classes (i.e., lab-based methods, imaging-based techniques, acoustic-based techniques, and physiological-measurement-based techniques) and summarized their recent applications. Major research has been skewed towards imaging-based techniques, especially after COVID-19. Currently, chest X-rays and blood tests are the most common tools in the clinical setting to establish a diagnosis; however, there is a need to look for safe, non-invasive, and more rapid techniques for diagnosis. Recently, some non-invasive techniques based on wearable sensors achieved reasonable diagnostic accuracy that could open a new chapter for future applications. Consequently, further research and technology development are still needed for pneumonia diagnosis using non-invasive physiological parameters to attain a better point of care for pneumonia patients.
Optoelectronic Strain-Measurement System Demonstrated on Scaled-Down Flywheels
Authors: Rath Matthias Franz , Birgel Christof , Buchroithner Armin , Schweighofer Bernhard , Wegleiter Hannes
Published: July 2024

Monitoring the strain in the rotating flywheel in a kinetic energy storage system is important for safe operation and for the investigation of long-term effects in composite materials like carbon-fiber-reinforced plastics. An optoelectronic strain-measurement system for contactless deformation and position monitoring of a flywheel was investigated. The system consists of multiple optical sensors measuring the local relative in-plane displacement of the flywheel rotor. A special reflective pattern, which is necessary to interact with the sensors, was applied to the surface of the rotor. Combining the measurements from multiple sensors makes it possible to distinguish between the deformation and in-plane displacement of the flywheel. The sensor system was evaluated using a low-speed steel rotor for single-sensor performance investigation as well as a scaled-down high-speed rotor made from PVC plastic. The PVC rotor exhibits more deformation due to centrifugal stresses than a steel or aluminum rotor of the same dimensions, which allows experimental measurements at a smaller flywheel scale as well as a lower rotation speed. Deformation measurements were compared to expected deformation from calculations. The influence of sensor distance was investigated. Deformation and position measurements as well as derived imbalance measurements were demonstrated.
Coping with Examination Stress: An Emotion Analysis
Authors: Avdimiotis Spyros , Konstantinidis Ioannis , Stalidis George , Stamovlasis Dimitrios
Published: July 2024

Stress is an important factor affecting human behavior, with recent works in the literature distinguishing it as either productive or destructive. The present study investigated how the primary emotion of stress is correlated with engagement, focus, interest, excitement, and relaxation during university students’ examination processes. Given that examinations are highly stressful processes, twenty-six postgraduate students participated in a four-phase experiment (rest, written examination, oral examination, and rest) conducted at the International Hellenic University (IHU) using a modified Trier protocol. Network analysis with a focus on centralities was employed for data processing. The results highlight the important role of stress in the examination process; correlate stress with other emotions, such as interest, engagement, enthusiasm, relaxation, and concentration; and, finally, suggest ways to control and creatively utilize stress.
The Application of Commercial Surface Acoustic Wave Radio Communication Filters as Transducers for DMMP Sensors
Authors: Grabka Michał , Jasek Krzysztof , Pasternak Mateusz , Witkiewicz Zygfryd
Published: July 2024

In the present study, we used two popular radio communication SAW resonators as a base for gas sensors and tested their performance. Taking into account issues related to sensor sensitivity, the possibility of applying a sensor layer, the availability of devices, and other related issues, we selected two popular single-port resonators with center frequencies of 315 and 433 MHz (models R315 and R433, respectively) for testing purposes. Both resonators were equipped with a sensitive film of hexafluoroisopropanol-substituted polydimethylsiloxane, a material that selectively absorbs molecules with a high ability to form basic hydrogen bonds. Fabricated sensors were used to detect trace amounts of dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) vapor, which has often been used in similar studies as a nerve chemical warfare agent simulant. Sensors using both devices loaded with sensor layers of an optimal thickness rapidly reacted to a gas containing DMMP at a concentration of 3 mg/m3, generating a stable analytical signal ranging from several to several dozen kilohertz. In the case of R433, the frequency signal was 20.5 kHz at 1 min from the beginning of exposure to DMMP. The obtained results showed that the used transducers exhibited good performance as a base for gas sensors. Finally, their suitability for sensing applications was confirmed by a comparison with the results obtained in previous similar studies.
Long Short-Term Memory Networks’ Application on Typhoon Wave Prediction for the Western Coast of Taiwan
Authors: Chao Wei-Ting , Kuo Ting-Jung
Published: July 2024

Huge waves caused by typhoons often induce severe disasters along coastal areas, making the effective prediction of typhoon-induced waves a crucial research issue for researchers. In recent years, the development of the Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT) has rapidly increased the prediction of oceanic environmental disasters. Past studies have utilized meteorological data and feedforward neural networks (e.g., BPNN) with static network structures to establish short lead time (e.g., 1 h) typhoon wave prediction models for the coast of Taiwan. However, sufficient lead time for prediction remains essential for preparedness, early warning, and response to minimize the loss of lives and properties during typhoons. The aim of this research is to construct a novel long lead time typhoon-induced wave prediction model using Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), which incorporates a dynamic network structure. LSTM can capture long-term information through its recurrent structure and selectively retain necessary signals using memory gates. Compared to earlier studies, this method extends the prediction lead time and significantly improves the learning and generalization capability, thereby enhancing prediction accuracy markedly.
Three-Dimensional Human Posture Recognition by Extremity Angle Estimation with Minimal IMU Sensor
Authors: Shiao Yaojung , Chen Guan-Yu , Hoang Thang
Published: July 2024

Recently, posture recognition technology has advanced rapidly. Herein, we present a novel posture angle calculation system utilizing a single inertial measurement unit and a spatial geometric equation to accurately identify the three-dimensional (3D) motion angles and postures of both the upper and lower limbs of the human body. This wearable system facilitates continuous monitoring of body movements without the spatial limitations or occlusion issues associated with camera-based methods. This posture-recognition system has many benefits. Providing precise posture change information helps users assess the accuracy of their movements, prevent sports injuries, and enhance sports performance. This system employs a single inertial sensor, coupled with a filtering mechanism, to calculate the sensor’s trajectory and coordinates in 3D space. Subsequently, the spatial geometry equation devised herein accurately computed the joint angles for changing body postures. To validate its effectiveness, the joint angles estimated from the proposed system were compared with those from dual inertial sensors and image recognition technology. The joint angle discrepancies for this system were within 10° and 5° when compared with dual inertial sensors and image recognition technology, respectively. Such reliability and accuracy of the proposed angle estimation system make it a valuable reference for assessing joint angles.
Transformer Discharge Carbon-Trace Detection Based on Improved MSRCR Image-Enhancement Algorithm and YOLOv8 Model
Authors: Ji Hongxin , Han Peilin , Li Jiaqi , Liu Xinghua , Liu Liqing
Published: July 2024

It is difficult to visually detect internal defects in a large transformer with a metal closure. For convenient internal inspection, a micro-robot was adopted, and an inspection method based on an image-enhancement algorithm and an improved deep-learning network was proposed in this paper. Considering the dim environment inside the transformer and the problems of irregular imaging distance and fluctuating supplementary light conditions during image acquisition with the internal-inspection robot, an improved MSRCR algorithm for image enhancement was proposed. It could analyze the local contrast of the image and enhance the details on multiple scales. At the same time, a white-balance algorithm was introduced to enhance the contrast and brightness and solve the problems of overexposure and color distortion. To improve the target recognition performance of complex carbon-trace defects, the SimAM mechanism was incorporated into the Backbone network of the YOLOv8 model to enhance the extraction of carbon-trace features. Meanwhile, the DyHead dynamic detection Head framework was constructed at the output of the YOLOv8 model to improve the perception of local carbon traces with different sizes. To improve the defect target recognition speed of the transformer-inspection robot, a pruning operation was carried out on the YOLOv8 model to remove redundant parameters, realize model lightness, and improve detection efficiency. To verify the effectiveness of the improved algorithm, the detection model was trained and validated with the carbon-trace dataset. The results showed that the MSH-YOLOv8 algorithm achieved an accuracy of 91.80%, which was 3.4 percentage points higher compared to the original YOLOv8 algorithm, and had a significant advantage over other mainstream target-detection algorithms. Meanwhile, the FPS of the proposed algorithm was up to 99.2, indicating that the model computation and model complexity were successfully reduced, which meets the requirements for engineering applications of the transformer internal-inspection robot.
The Impact of Heterogeneous Environmental Regulation Tools on Economic Growth: Can Environmental Protection and Economic Growth Be Win-Win?
Authors: Lu Haoyang , Hunt Alistair , Morley Bruce
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the relationship between economic growth and environmental regulation using panel data for 30 provinces in China from 2009–2021 using the fixed effects model and the threshold model. First, the baseline regression results show that market-based environmental regulation promotes economic growth. However, command-and-control environmental regulation in China can not promote China’s economic growth. Second, further research has shown that environmental regulation’s role in promoting the economy is constrained by the intensity of environmental regulation. Market-based environmental regulation is only able to promote economic growth when the intensity is low. If the intensity of market-based environmental regulation is too high, market-based environmental regulation, on the contrary, can not promote economic growth. Third, The impact of market-based environmental regulation on economic growth also is found to be constrained by the level of economic development: market-based environmental regulation does not promote economic growth when the economy is less developed. It is only when the economy has reached a high level that market-based environmental regulation will contribute to economic growth. Finally, this paper finds that financial development and market-based environmental regulation can synergize to promote economic growth.
Learning Sustainability: Post-Graduate Students’ Perceptions on the Use of Social Media Platforms to Enhance Academic Writing
Authors: Al Mulhim Ensaf Nasser , Ismaeel Dina Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Academic writing is a vital element in any post-graduate study. Therefore, it is crucial to harness all the tools and capabilities available to serve this purpose. These capabilities include the digital tools that characterize the current era. This paper aims to explore post-graduate students’ perceptions of the use of social media platforms to enhance academic writing during the COVID-19 pandemic who are enrolled in the Master of Educational Technology in our institution, Saudi Arabia. The study followed a qualitative research methodology and used semi-structured interviews with ten students to gather data. Thematic analysis was applied. The results showed that post-graduate students value the role of the use of social media platforms in enhancing their academic writing. The findings also showed the advantages, disadvantages, and obstacles of the use of social media platforms in enhancing their academic writing. The implications of this study can inform post-graduate supervisors to reconsider the benefits of social media platforms as high-value communication tools in enhancing the skills of academic writing. Thus, they may adopt, employ, and blend them with traditional methods of communication in their efforts to develop their students’ academic writing skills. Using social media platforms for learning academic writing during the COVID-19 pandemic may mirror the fourth goal of sustainable development. The implications of the study over post-pandemic postgraduate education have been discussed.
Environmental Justice and Corporate Green Innovation: The Role of Legitimacy Pressures
Authors: Zhang Guoyi , Chen Dong
Published: July 2024

This study examines the impact of environmental judicial reinforcement on green technology innovation, constructing a progressive difference-in-differences model using firm- and city-level panel data from 2006 to 2019 and taking the successive establishment of environmental courts by the Intermediate People’s Court in Chinese prefectural-level cities as a quasi-natural experiment. We find that establishing environmental courts in China promotes green technology innovation. This finding still holds after a series of robustness tests such as selected fixed-effects Poisson model regression. The mechanism analysis suggests that environmental courts primarily promote increased green innovation output by heavily polluting firms by exerting more substantial pressure regarding environmental legitimacy. The heterogeneity analysis reveals that the positive impact of the establishment of environmental courts on green technology innovation is more pronounced in water pollution-intensive industries and areas with high public participation and media attention. Our findings provide new insights into how environmental justice affects firms’ green innovation and validate the Porter hypothesis. Also, they serves as a reference for constructing environmental courts in China and other policy jurisdictions that may be interested.
How to Drive Tourists’ Pro-Environmental Behavior: Interactive Effect of Benefit Appeals and Goal Framing
Authors: Deng Pengfei , Zhou Xingye , Xie Dan , Zheng Peng
Published: July 2024

The drive to foster tourists’ pro-environmental behavior (TPEB) is a current research hotspot amidst the deteriorating ecological environment. However, existing studies have yet to reach definitive conclusions on how tourist destinations influence TPEB through different benefit appeals and goal framing. This paper investigates the interactive effects of these factors on TPEB, reporting on two experiments. Study 1 confirmed significant interactive effects of benefit appeals and goal framing on TPEB, wherein altruistic appeals and gain framing, as well as appeals to self-interest and loss framing, demonstrates matching effects. Furthermore, environmental awareness mediated these interactions. Study 2 established that tourists’ environmental knowledge moderates the interactive effects of goal framing and benefit appeals on TPEB. The moderating effect of high-level environmental knowledge is more pronounced, and tourists with higher environmental knowledge are more inclined to engage in TPEB compared with those with lower levels of environmental knowledge. The conclusions of this study not only enrich the research on influencing factors and mechanisms of TPEB but also offer practical insights for environmental management in tourist destinations.
Typology of Informal Learning Spaces (ILS) in Sustainable Academic Education: A Systematic Literature Review in Architecture and Urban Planning
Authors: Salih Sarah Abdulkareem , Alzamil Waleed , Ajlan Ali , Azmi Athira , Ismail Sumarni
Published: July 2024

Informal learning spaces (ILS) offer unique opportunities for students to interact and develop skills in a more social, resilient, and sustainable environment. However, there is a lack of a definitive typology for ILS and related design factors and outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the typology of ILS in academic education, including relevant design factors and positive outcomes from architectural and urban planning perspectives. A systematic literature review was conducted on articles published between 2004 and 2024 from four databases: Scopus, ScienceDirect, Emerald Insights, and IEEE Xplore. The included articles are in English and based on empirical data published in peer-reviewed journals, focusing on informal learning and its settings. A total of 37 full-text articles were included in the descriptive review, from which two categories and six types were identified: private indoor quiet space, semi-private/semi-public indoor space, public indoor space, public sustainable space, public outdoor space, and comprehensive space. The results also revealed seven categories of factors affecting these types of ILS: personal aspects, spatial design, physical settings, resources, social aspects, natural environment, and perceived environment. Furthermore, these ILS significantly contributed to five categories of positive outcomes: learning efficacy, socialisation, refreshment and relaxation, health outcomes, and sustainable development. Therefore, this SLR significantly contributed to the definition and typology of ILS in sustainable higher education.
Examining the Prospects of Residential Water Demand Management Policy Regulations in Ethiopia: Implications for Sustainable Water Resource Management
Authors: Timotewos Mosisa Teferi , Barjenbruch Matthias
Published: July 2024

This study examines the prospects of residential water demand management policy regulations in Ethiopia and their implications for sustainable water resource management. This study aims to evaluate the existing policy regulations and analyze their effectiveness in promoting efficient water use and conservation practices in residential areas. By considering the potential challenges and opportunities associated with these regulations, the research provides insights into the future of residential water demand management in Ethiopia and suggests strategies for enhancing sustainable water resource management. An integrated literature and policy document review, alongside observation and interviews, was used to assess the viability of residential water demand management policies. The assessment of current policy regulations for residential water demand management in Ethiopian urban towns has revealed significant shortcomings in promoting water conservation activities. Simple linear regression analysis of water consumption data from 2010 to 2020 showed no significant reduction in water usage, with an increase in average consumption from 43, 39, and 28 L per capita per day (LPCD) pre-policy to 72, 51, and 42 LPCD post-policy for Arba Minch, Ziway, and Debre Birhan, respectively. Hence, there is a need for significant improvements in the current water resource policy guidelines, which lack specificity, particularly in residential water demand management conservation strategies. The lack of awareness among residents regarding the importance of conserving their limited water resources is evident. To address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of the water supply, the government and policy developers must engage with various stakeholders, including the community, in the process of revising current policy documents. A more precise and tailored approach is necessary for its effective implementation.
Mechanical Damage and Freeze–Thaw Damage of Concrete with Recycled Brick Coarse Aggregate
Authors: Tan Guiying , Gong Shangwei , Wang Ting , Li Meng , Li Jiahui , Ren Xiaoyu , Zhang Weishen , Wang Chenxia , Cao Fubo , Su Tian
Published: July 2024

The influence of different recycled brick coarse aggregate (RBA) substitution rates on the mechanical performance and frost resistance of concrete was observed. The test findings revealed that RBA deteriorated the compressive and flexural properties in concrete and improved the tensile properties and plasticity in concrete to some extent. The frost resistance of concrete can be effectively improved by adding RBA. The influence degree of the RBA concrete frost resistance factor was quantified by gray entropy correlation theory, and the gray entropy correlations between freezing and thawing cycles, natural coarse aggregate substitution rate, recycled brick aggregate substitution rate, and freezing and thawing damage value (DN) were 0.9979, 0.9914, and 0.9876, respectively. Moreover, the freezing and thawing damage model about GM(1, 1) theory was developed (R2 > 0.87), which can better predict the freezing and thawing damage of RBA concrete. The damage mechanism of RBA concrete during freezing and thawing was revealed.
Algorithm for Evaluating the Difficulty of Land Consolidation Using Cadastral Data
Authors: Maciąg Michał , Maciąg Klaudia , Leń Przemysław
Published: July 2024

Optimum planning and effective land consolidation, widely discussed by contemporary authors, is a response to the perceivable need to modernise global agriculture to ensure the community’s food security and create steady, sustainable development in rural areas. Adequate leveraging of agricultural policy instruments requires setting a correct strategic direction, including allocating available funds and considering the technical feasibility of the adopted assumptions. The selection of relevant methods to ensure the efficient and complete accomplishment of the anticipated results should follow a rational analysis of the actual work complexity. This paper presents an innovative, proprietary method for evaluating the difficulty of potential land consolidation using a standardised cadastral data set. The designed tool, which relies on automated algorithms applied in a GIS environment, provides accurate data describing the expected land consolidation complexity at individual stages of the procedure. Detailed and current information on land ownership, use, and farm geometry processed using efficient spatial and statistical analysis methods provides transparent and unambiguous results. The proposed solution was used in developing the difficulty assessment of land consolidation in 58 villages of the Strzyżów district in southeastern Poland.
Empirical Research on Factors Influencing Chinese Farmers’ Adoption of Green Production Technologies
Authors: Fan Xiaojuan , Meng Guanghui , Zhang Qingming
Published: July 2024

During a critical period of structural reform in China’s agricultural supply chain, accelerating the promotion and application of green production technologies emerges as a pivotal strategy to ensure the quality and safety of agricultural products while advancing agricultural modernization. This study empirically examines the factors influencing farmers’ adoption of green production technologies using an ordered logistic model based on survey data collected from 533 respondents in Shandong Province. The survey targeted regions where major economic crops such as corn and soybeans are cultivated, employing simple random sampling to ensure the data’s representativeness and reliability. The findings underscore several critical factors influencing farmers’ willingness to adopt green production technologies, including the presence of quality inspections, evaluations of restrictions on prohibited pesticide use, sales performance of green products, availability of government subsidies, and traceability of agricultural products. To foster greater adoption of green production technologies and propel the transformation of China’s agriculture, it is recommended to advocate and guide green agricultural practices, enhance green agricultural subsidy policies, and strengthen agricultural product market management systems. These measures are essential for ensuring sustainable agricultural development in China.
Contribution of Glazed Balconies as a Passive Heating System in Contemporary Buildings in Northern Portugal
Authors: Toroxel Julia Lima , Silva Sandra Monteiro , Fernandes Jorge
Published: July 2024

To mitigate greenhouse gas emissions responsible for global warming and climate change, governments have undertaken concerted efforts and established goals to restructure production and consumption patterns within the current global economy. The construction sector, which in Europe has significant energy use and related greenhouse gas emissions, recognizes adopting passive heating and cooling systems for buildings as a viable solution. The revival of vernacular passive solar strategies emerges as opportune within this context. Through dynamic simulations, this study aims to analyze and quantify the potential contribution of glazed balconies, a traditional passive heating system, to improve contemporary constructions’ thermal behavior and comfort conditions in mild temperate climates, such as in northern Portugal. Results indicate that this system can significantly enhance a building’s energy efficiency, reducing energy needs for heating and cooling by up to 47% while extending periods of thermal comfort indoors by nearly 900 h per year compared to buildings with non-glazed balconies. Proper use of natural ventilation and shading devices is essential to ensure optimal system performance and prevent overheating. This research underscores the potential of glazed balconies as a sustainable solution for enhancing contemporary buildings’ thermal-energy performance and comfort, contributing to the transition towards carbon-neutral constructions.
Sea Level Variability Assessment along the African Coast
Authors: Pajak Katarzyna , Idzikowska Magdalena , Kowalczyk Kamil
Published: July 2024

Studying changes in the sea level is essential for the sustainable development of coastal areas. The aim of this study was to analyse time series and investigate the regional variability of the sea surface and the effect of individual factors on its behaviour. In this study, we utilised the most recent satellite altimetry data (over a period of 29 years, i.e., from 1993 to 2022) and tide gauge observations (long-term time series) in order to estimate changes in the sea level. Unlike in previous studies, the rates of the sea level changes around the entire African coast were determined. In addition, time series of the changes in the sea surface temperature and salinity were used to determine the rate of changes arising from the thermal expansion of the ocean. The regional rate of the sea level rise between 1993 and 2022 deviated significantly from the global average, with values ranging from 2.48 to 5.44 mm/year (based on satellite altimetry data, depending on the location of the point).
Estimating the Temporal Impacts of Nearshore Fisheries on Coastal Ocean-Sourced Waste Accumulation in South Korea Using Stepwise Regression
Authors: Lee Seung-Hyun , Hong Seung-Kweon , Lee Jongsung , Yu Ji-Won , Kim Hong-Tae , Joung Tae-Hwan
Published: July 2024

Fishing activities have been recognized as one of the primary contributors to marine environmental pollution. Studies have been conducted on the impact of fishing activities on the accumulation of marine debris, but most of these studies have been conducted at specific points in time. This study collected marine debris data over four years in the coastal area of Korea. Data on the magnitude of nearshore fishing activities during the same period were collected and analyzed. Regression models were constructed to explore the impact of nearshore fishing activities on coastal waste accumulation over time. This research aimed to understand the influence of nearshore fishing activities on the accumulation of ocean-sourced coastal waste, leading to the development of a time series regression model. The results indicated that time series models have substantially more explanatory power compared to conventional models, emphasizing the importance of temporal considerations in quantifying the relationship between fishing activities and coastal litter over time.
Serum Levels of Arachidonic Acid, Interleukin-6, and C-Reactive Protein as Potential Indicators of Pulmonary Viral Infections: Comparative Analysis of Influenza A, Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection, and COVID-19
Authors: Iftimie Simona , Gabaldó-Barrios Xavier , Penadés-Nadal Joan , Canela-Capdevila Marta , Piñana Rubén , Jiménez-Franco Andrea , López-Azcona Ana F. , Castañé Helena , Cárcel María , Camps Jordi , Castro Antoni , Joven Jorge
Published: July 2024

Acute respiratory tract infections, including influenza A (FluA), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection, and COVID-19, can aggravate to levels requiring hospitalization, increasing morbidity and mortality. Identifying biomarkers for an accurate diagnosis and prognosis of these infections is a clinical need. We performed a cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the changes in circulating levels of arachidonic acid, interleukin 6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP) in patients with FluA, RSV, or COVID-19, and to analyze the potential of these parameters as diagnosis or prognosis biomarkers. We analyzed serum samples from 172 FluA, 80 RSV, and 217 COVID-19 patients, and 104 healthy volunteers. Individuals with lung viral diseases showed reduced arachidonic acid concentrations compared to healthy people, with these differences being most pronounced in the order COVID-19 > RSV > FluA. Conversely, IL-6 and CRP levels were elevated across diseases, with IL-6 emerging as the most promising diagnostic biomarker, with areas under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristics plot higher than 0.85 and surpassing arachidonic acid and CRP. Moreover, IL-6 displayed notable efficacy in distinguishing between FluA patients who survived and those who did not (AUC = 0.80). These findings may provide useful tools for diagnosing and monitoring the severity of acute viral respiratory tract infections, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Correction: Harenda et al. Spatio-Temporal Morphodynamics of a Nourished Sandy Shore Based on LiDAR Measurements. Water 2024, 16, 1055
Authors: Harenda Marek , Dudkowska Aleksandra , Szmytkiewicz Piotr
Published: July 2024

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Hydrological Response of Bamboo Plantations on Soil–Water Dynamics in Humid and Semi-Arid Coastal Region of Kenya
Authors: Nadir Stanley , Kaushal Rajesh , Kumar Ambrish , Durai Jayaraman , Reza Selim , Ndufa James , Ronoh Ernest , Elema Mohammed , Thiga John , Kumar Manish
Published: July 2024

Soils and water are major resources that drive a country’s economy, and therefore should be conserved and utilized sustainably. However, in Kenya, these two resources are facing huge depletion and degradation due to anthropogenic factors and climate change. Bamboo species, especially on large plantations, can significantly alter ecological, hydrological, and biogeochemical processes in the long term. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different species of bamboo and tree plantations on important soil–water processes like infiltration, bulk density, runoff, and soil loss in Kenya. The research was conducted at two sites (Gede in Arabuko Sokoke forest and at Baolala, in Kilifi County) managed by the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI). The Arabuko Sokoke forest has a hot–humid coastal climate, while Baolala is a hot semi-arid area with little precipitation. The study involved measurement of soil–water infiltration rates using infiltrometers, installing runoff plots to quantify surface runoff and sediment loss, and analyzing soil properties like bulk density for growing periods for different bamboo and tree species. At the Gede forest site, the 30-year-old Thyrsostachys siamensis and Bambusa bambos plantations recorded the highest infiltration rates. Mature bamboo plantations of T. siamensis and B. bambos recorded higher infiltration rates compared to mature plantations of E. camaldulensis and G. arborea. It was observed that the bamboo plantations manifested lower soil bulk density compared to bare land, which recorded the highest bulk density. At Boalala, infiltration rates were significantly higher in the bamboo species compared to grassland and bare land. The painted bamboo (B. vulgaris vittata) had a slightly higher water infiltration rate compared to B. vulgaris. Runoff and erosion patterns reinforced the benefits of more mature bamboo plantations as well. There was a significant correlation between amount of runoff and collected soil loss through erosion. The data showed reductions in surface runoff volumes and sediment loss as the bamboo plantations aged compared to younger species. Therefore, by enhancing infiltration and reducing runoff and erosion, well-managed bamboo plantations can protect valuable soil resources, improve water recharge, and support sustainable land use over the long term. In conclusion, this study showed the strong potential of bamboo as a soil and water conservation tool in Kenya.