bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nash-Bargaining Fairness Concerns under Push and Pull Supply Chains
Authors: Ni Shuchen , Feng Chun , Gou Handan
Published: November 2023

Unbalanced power structures can lead to an inequitable distribution of the supply chain’s profits, creating unstable supply chain relationships and serious social problems. This paper builds a two-tier newsvendor model composed of a single supplier and a single retailer and introduces Nash bargaining as a reference for fairness. We investigate (1) the impact of fairness concerns on the performance of a retailer-dominated supply chain and a manufacturer-dominated supply chain; (2) how demand uncertainty affects the inequitable state; and (3) how overestimated and underestimated values of fairness concerns affect supply chain performance when fairness concerns are private information. After solving the equilibrium solution of the Stackelberg game and Nash-bargaining games and numerical analyses, it is shown that unilateral fairness concerns by the Stackelberg leader or follower can motivate the leader to sacrifice its profit to reduce their income inequality by offering a coordinating wholesale price. Of course, it is also effective for both participants to be fair-minded as soon as their fairness sensitivity is moderate enough. However, followers’ fairness concerns are more effective at decreasing inequity, while leaders can improve social welfare, i.e., increase the entire supply chain’s efficiency as well as market scale. We also find that in a more uncertain market, fewer fairness-concerned participants are supposed to reach a relatively fair condition. In addition, we conclude that sometimes asymmetric information about fairness concerns can improve the profit share of the disadvantaged and even channel efficiency. This paper extends the study of Nash-bargaining fairness concerns to retailer-dominated newsvendor models and enriches the field, when fairness concerns are asymmetric information.
Towards Sustainable Battery Recycling: A Carbon Footprint Comparison between Pyrometallurgical and Hydrometallurgical Battery Recycling Flowsheets
Authors: Van Hoof Gert , Robertz Bénédicte , Verrecht Bart
Published: November 2023

The expected large growth in electric mobility presents challenges, such as requiring a very large amount of critical raw materials like nickel, cobalt, and lithium. Due to this expected growth significant amounts of production scrap from cell and battery manufacturing will be generated. Over the next decade, increasingly larger amounts of Li-ion batteries from electric vehicles will also reach their end-of-life. Hence, in order to close the loop, the development and industrialization of sustainable battery recycling flowsheets are key so that both production scrap and end-of-life batteries can be recycled back to their ‘battery grade’ building blocks. Battery recycling flowsheets are typically categorized into two categories: (1) ‘Pyro-Hydro’, a combination of battery smelting in a pyrometallurgical process, followed by the further refining of the alloy via hydrometallurgy; and (2) ‘(Thermo)mechanical-Hydro’, a combination of (thermo)mechanical pretreatment and further hydrometallurgical refining of the resulting black mass. In this paper, a carbon footprint analysis is presented comparing these two battery recycling approaches: ‘Pyro-Hydro’ and ‘Thermomechanical-Hydro’, taking into account the impact of the latest evolutions in process technology and efficiency. To facilitate this comparison, a prospective LCA was carried out for the respective flowsheets. The quantitative analysis shows that ‘Pyro-Hydro’ leads to the lowest overall carbon footprint but also that both ‘Pyro-Hydro’ and ‘Thermomechanical-Hydro’ flowsheets have their challenges and opportunities for decarbonization. The inclusion of the fate of side streams such as graphite and electrolyte in the analysis is shown to be critically important in order to gain an objective and complete view.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Micro-Electromechanical System Inertial Devices
Authors: Cao Huiliang
Published: November 2023

Micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) are miniature systems comprising micro-mechanical sensors, actuators, and microelectronic circuits [...]
Antibacterial Nanostructured Coatings
Authors: Tammaro Loredana
Published: November 2023

Nanomaterials, which by definition must have at least one of their constituents at the nanoscale, can display unique optical, magnetic, electrical, mechanical, and other properties [...]
A Review of the Nutritional Approach and the Role of Dietary Components in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Light of the Latest Scientific Research
Authors: Önal Seda , Sachadyn-Król Monika , Kostecka Małgorzata
Published: November 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects several areas of mental development. The onset of ASD occurs in the first few years of life, usually before the age of 3 years. Proper nutrition is important to ensure that an individual’s nutrient and energy requirements are met, and it can also have a moderating effect on the progression of the disorder. A systematic database search was conducted as a narrative review to determine whether nutrition and specific diets can potentially alter gastrointestinal symptoms and neurobehavioral disorders. Databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), and Google Scholar were searched to find studies published between 2000 and September 2023 on the relationship between ASD, dietary approaches, and the role of dietary components. The review may indicate that despite extensive research into dietary interventions, there is a general lack of conclusive scientific data about the effect of therapeutic diets on ASD; therefore, no definitive recommendation can be made for any specific nutritional therapy as a standard treatment for ASD. An individualized dietary approach and the dietician’s role in the therapeutic team are very important elements of every therapy. Parents and caregivers should work with nutrition specialists, such as registered dietitians or healthcare providers, to design meal plans for autistic individuals, especially those who would like to implement an elimination diet.
Effects of Saffron Extract (Affron®) with 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg on Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis and Stress Resilience in Chronic Mild Stress-Induced Depression in Wistar Rats
Authors: Kim Chae-Young , Ko Kayoung , Choi Seo-Hee , Jo Miri , Kim Jinhye , Yoon Sunmi , Yi Isaac Jinwon , Morán-Valero María Inés , Kwon Min-Young , Sohn Johann , Yi Sun-Shin
Published: November 2023

Stress-related symptoms are a global concern, impacting millions of individuals, yet effective and safe treatments remain scarce. Although multiple studies have highlighted the stress- alleviating properties of saffron extract, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study employs the unpredictable chronic mild stress (CMS) animal model to investigate the impact of a standardized saffron extract, Affron® (AFN), on hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis regulation and neuroplasticity in Wistar rats following repeated oral administration. The research evaluates AFN’s effects on various stress-related parameters, including hypothalamic gene expression, stress hormone levels, and the sucrose preference test. In animals subjected to continuous unpredictable CMS, repetitive administration of AFN at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg effectively normalized HPA axis dysregulation and enhanced neuroplasticity. Increased concentrations of AFN demonstrated greater efficacy. Following AFN oral administration, adrenocorticotropic and corticosterone hormone levels exhibited significant or nearly significant reductions in comparison to subjects exposed to stress only. These changes align with the alleviation of stress and the normalization of the HPA axis. These findings elucidate AFN’s role in stress mitigation, affirm its health benefits, validate its potential as a treatment for stress-related symptoms, confirm its physiological effectiveness, and emphasize its therapeutic promise.
Decoding the Influence of Obesity on Prostate Cancer and Its Transgenerational Impact
Authors: Santos-Pereira Mariana , Pereira Sara C. , Rebelo Irene , Spadella Maria A. , Oliveira Pedro F. , Alves Marco G.
Published: November 2023

In recent decades, the escalating prevalence of metabolic disorders, notably obesity and being overweight, has emerged as a pressing concern in public health. Projections for the future indicate a continual upward trajectory in obesity rates, primarily attributable to unhealthy dietary patterns and sedentary lifestyles. The ramifications of obesity extend beyond its visible manifestations, intricately weaving a web of hormonal dysregulation, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress. This nexus of factors holds particular significance in the context of carcinogenesis, notably in the case of prostate cancer (PCa), which is a pervasive malignancy and a leading cause of mortality among men. A compelling hypothesis arises from the perspective of transgenerational inheritance, wherein genetic and epigenetic imprints associated with obesity may wield influence over the development of PCa. This review proposes a comprehensive exploration of the nuanced mechanisms through which obesity disrupts prostate homeostasis and serves as a catalyst for PCa initiation. Additionally, it delves into the intriguing interplay between the transgenerational transmission of both obesity-related traits and the predisposition to PCa. Drawing insights from a spectrum of sources, ranging from in vitro and animal model research to human studies, this review endeavors to discuss the intricate connections between obesity and PCa. However, the landscape remains partially obscured as the current state of knowledge unveils only fragments of the complex mechanisms linking these phenomena. As research advances, unraveling the associated factors and underlying mechanisms promises to unveil novel avenues for understanding and potentially mitigating the nexus between obesity and the development of PCa.
Immobilization of Papain in Chitosan Membranes as a Potential Alternative for Skin Wounds
Authors: da Silva Melo Anne Emmanuelle Câmara , de Sousa Felipe Sanderson Ribeiro , dos Santos-Silva Alaine M. , do Nascimento Ednaldo Gomes , Fernandes-Pedrosa Matheus F. , de Medeiros Caroline Addison Carvalho Xavier , da Silva-Junior Arnóbio Antônio
Published: November 2023

Papain (an enzyme from the latex of Carica papaya) is an interesting natural bioactive macromolecule used as therapeutic alternative for wound healing due to debridement action in devitalized or necrotic tissues. However, its use in high doses can induce potential skin irritation and side effects. In this study, experiments explored the ability of chitosan membrane to immobilize papain, consequently improving enzymatic activity and controlling enzyme release. Papain-loading capacity was tested via experiments of force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM-FEG), and X-ray diffraction analyses. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermal analyses assessed the enzyme interactions with the copolymer. The investigation of the feasibility of membranes included pH on the surface, elasticity, and breaking strength measurements. The surface wettability and swelling capacity of different formulations revealed the best formulation for in vitro papain release experiments. The membranes had a transparent, rough, crystalline characteristic, which was homogeneous with the membrane within the neutrality. The immobilization of papain in the chitosan membrane resulted in a decrease in the vibration band characteristic of pure papain, suggesting a displacement in the vibration bands in the FTIR spectrum. The presence of papain decreased hydrophobicity on the surface of the membrane and disturbed the membrane’s ability to swell. Chitosan membranes containing papain 2.5% (0.04 g) and 5.0% (0.08 g) preserved feasible properties and improved the enzymatic activity compared (0.87 ± 0.12 AU/mg and 1.59 ± 0.10 AU/mg) with a free papain sample (0.0042 ± 0.001 AU/mg). Concentrations of over 10% (0.16 g) led to phase separation into membranes. Chitosan membranes exhibited a slow papain release behavior adjusted via the Higushi model. The experimental achievements suggest a novel and promising method for the enhancement of papain. The results indicate the potential for prolonged bioactivity for use on wounds.
Composition Dependency of the Flory–Huggins Interaction Parameter in Drug–Polymer Phase Behavior
Authors: Klueppelberg Jana , Handge Ulrich A. , Thommes Markus , Winck Judith
Published: November 2023

An innovative strategy to address recent challenges in the oral administration of poorly soluble drugs is the formulation of amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs), where the drug is dissolved in a highly soluble carrier polymer. Therefore, special knowledge of the drug–polymer phase behavior is essential for an effective product and process design, accelerating the introduction of novel efficacious ASD products. Flory–Huggins theory can be applied to model solubility temperatures of crystalline drugs in carrier polymers over the drug fraction. However, predicted solubility temperatures lack accuracy in cases of strong drug/polymer interactions that are not represented in the Flory–Huggins lattice model. Within this study, a modeling strategy is proposed to improve the predictive power through an extension of the Flory–Huggins interaction parameter by a correlation with the drug fraction. Therefore, the composition dependency of the Flory–Huggins interaction parameter was evaluated experimentally for various drug–polymer formulations that cover a wide variety of drug and polymer characteristics regarding molecular weights, glass transition temperatures and melting temperatures, as well as drug–polymer interactions of different strengths and effects. The extended model was successfully approved for nine exemplary ASD formulations containing the drugs acetaminophen, itraconazole, and griseofulvine, as well as the following polymers: basic butylated methacrylate copolymer, Soluplus®, and vinylpyrrolidone/vinyl acetate copolymer. A high correlation between the predicted solubility temperatures and experimental and literature data was found, particularly at low drug fractions, since the model accounts for composition dependent drug–polymer interactions.
Micelle-Formulated Juglone Effectively Targets Pancreatic Cancer and Remodels the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Shah Vidhi M. , Rizvi Syed , Smith Alexander , Tsuda Motoyuki , Krieger Madeline , Pelz Carl , MacPherson Kevin , Eng Jenny , Chin Koei , Munks Michael W. , Daniel Colin J. , Al-Fatease Adel , Yardimci Galip Gürkan , Langer Ellen M. , Brody Jonathan R. , Sheppard Brett C. , Alani Adam WG. , Sears Rosalie C.
Published: November 2023

Pancreatic cancer remains a formidable challenge due to limited treatment options and its aggressive nature. In recent years, the naturally occurring anticancer compound juglone has emerged as a potential therapeutic candidate, showing promising results in inhibiting tumor growth and inducing cancer cell apoptosis. However, concerns over its toxicity have hampered juglone’s clinical application. To address this issue, we have explored the use of polymeric micelles as a delivery system for juglone in pancreatic cancer treatment. These micelles, formulated using Poloxamer 407 and D-α-Tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate, offer an innovative solution to enhance juglone’s therapeutic potential while minimizing toxicity. In-vitro studies have demonstrated that micelle-formulated juglone (JM) effectively decreases proliferation and migration and increases apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cell lines. Importantly, in-vivo, JM exhibited no toxicity, allowing for increased dosing frequency compared to free drug administration. In mice, JM significantly reduced tumor growth in subcutaneous xenograft and orthotopic pancreatic cancer models. Beyond its direct antitumor effects, JM treatment also influenced the tumor microenvironment. In immunocompetent mice, JM increased immune cell infiltration and decreased stromal deposition and activation markers, suggesting an immunomodulatory role. To understand JM’s mechanism of action, we conducted RNA sequencing and subsequent differential expression analysis on tumors that were treated with JM. The administration of JM treatment reduced the expression levels of the oncogenic protein MYC, thereby emphasizing its potential as a focused, therapeutic intervention. In conclusion, the polymeric micelles-mediated delivery of juglone holds excellent promise in pancreatic cancer therapy. This approach offers improved drug delivery, reduced toxicity, and enhanced therapeutic efficacy.
Off-Label Prescribing in Pediatric Population—Literature Review for 2012–2022
Authors: Petkova Valentina , Georgieva Dilyana , Dimitrov Milen , Nikolova Irina
Published: November 2023

Off-label prescribing is widespread among pediatricians, and it is unlikely that this trend will soon be bound by a uniform legal framework. This is necessitated by the fact that there are four variables: the patient’s health condition, the physician’s experience and knowledge, the legislative measures (laws, directives, guidelines, and recommendations), and finally, the pharmaceutical industry. There is considerable concern worldwide about the use of off-label medicines in children. We may call it an enormous global problem that is much talked about and written about; however, we should not forget that the goal around which everyone should unite is the patient’s life. For healthcare providers, the most important thing will always be the health and preservation of the patient’s life, particularly when it comes to children with life-threatening conditions in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units (NICU and PICU). The study aimed to examine the prevalence of off-label drug use in pediatrics. Literature research was conducted, and we included studies from 2012 to 2022 that evaluated off-label drug prevalence in various pediatric patient populations.
Analyzing Temperature Distribution Patterns on the Facing and Backside Surface: Investigating Combustion Performance of Flame-Retardant Particle Boards Using Aluminum Hypophosphite, Intumescent, and Magnesium Hydroxide Flame Retardants
Authors: Pan Fangya , Jia Hongyu , Huang Yuxiang , Chen Zhilin , Liang Shanqing , Jiang Peng
Published: November 2023

Particle boards are manufactured through a hot pressing process using wood materials (natural polymer materials) and adhesive, which find common usage in indoor decorative finishing materials. Flame-retardant particleboard, crucial for fire safety in such applications, undergoes performance analysis that includes assessing temperature distribution across its facing surface and temperature increase on the backside surface during facade combustion, yielding critical insights into fire scenario development. In this study, a compact flame spread apparatus is utilized to examine the flame retardancy and combustion behavior of particle boards, with a specific emphasis on the application of cost-effective flame retardants, encompassing aluminum hypophosphite (ALHP), an intumescent flame retardant (IFR) comprising ammonium polyphosphate (APP), melamine (MEL), and Dipentaerythritol (DPE), alongside magnesium hydroxide (MDH), and their associated combustion characteristics. The D300°C values, representing the vertical distance from the ignition point (IP) to P300°C (the temperature point at 300 °C farthest from IP), are measured using a compact temperature distribution measurement platform. For MDH/PB, APP + MEL + DPE/PB, and ALHP/PB samples, the respective D300°C values of 145.79 mm, 117.81 mm, and 118.57 mm indicate reductions of 11.11%, 28.17%, and 27.71%, compared to the untreated sample’s value of 164.02 mm. The particle boards treated with ALHP, IFR, and MDH demonstrated distinct flame-retardant mechanisms. MDH/PB relied on the thermal decomposition of MDH to produce MgO and H2O for flame retardancy, while APP + MEL + DPE/PB achieved flame retardancy through a cross-linked structure with char expansion, polyphosphate, and pyrophosphate during combustion. On the other hand, ALHP/PB attained flame retardancy by reacting with wood materials and adhesives, forming a stable condensed P-N-C structure. This study serves as a performance reference for the production of cost-effective flame-resistant particleboards and offers a practical method for assessing its fire-resistant properties when used as a decorative finishing material on facades in real fire situations.
The Difference in Damage to Low-Permeability Reservoirs by Different Injection Methods of CO2 Flooding
Authors: Liu Yiwen , Fu Meilong
Published: November 2023

Low-permeability reservoirs have become an important field of oil and gas development in China. CO2 flooding technology is an effective technical means for tertiary oil recovery. Although the asphaltene in the system is deposited in the form of a solid after CO2 injection into the reservoir in contact with crude oil, which causes a certain blockage to the reservoir, the dissolution during the injection process improves the seepage capacity of the reservoir as a whole, and the damage degree of CO2 flooding to low-permeability reservoirs under different injection modes is different. In this paper, the damage degree of asphaltene precipitation to low-permeability reservoirs under different injection modes of CO2 flooding is quantitatively characterized. The mechanism experiment of organic scale plugging after continuous CO2 flooding and CO2–water alternate flooding, the wettability experiment of reservoirs, and the evaluation experiment of CO2–water solution on rock dissolution are carried out, and the variation characteristics of relative permeability curve parameters are evaluated. In this paper, the damage degree of asphaltene precipitation to low-permeability reservoirs under different injection modes of CO2 flooding is quantitatively characterized. The mechanism experiment of organic scale plugging after continuous CO2 flooding and CO2–water alternate flooding, the wettability experiment of reservoirs, and the evaluation experiment of CO2–water solution on rock dissolution are carried out. The variation characteristics of relative permeability curve parameters are evaluated. The results show that the organic scale produced by CO2 flooding will block the pore throat of the rock, but, on the whole, the dissolution caused by the reaction of CO2 and chlorite is stronger, which makes the recovery rate of low-permeability reservoirs effectively improved. The organic scale blockage caused by CO2–water alternating flooding is weaker than that caused by continuous CO2 flooding. The dissolution effect is better and the permeability is higher. It can achieve a better oil displacement effect in pores with a pore size greater than 0.2 μm. On the whole, it can increase the core pore space and seepage channel, so that the recovery rate of low-permeability reservoirs can be effectively improved. This study has important theoretical and practical significance for improving oil recovery in low-permeability reservoirs.
A New Methodology for Validation of the Ergonomics Risk Assessment in Industry
Authors: Ispășoiu Adrian , Milosan Ioan , Gabor Camelia , Oancea Gheorghe
Published: November 2023

In order to carry out an ergonomic assessment of the entire working situation in the industrial field, we have created and implemented an ergonomic risk assessment methodology—Ergonomics Risk Assessment Methodology in Industry (ERAI)—which takes into account a number of aspects that have a major impact on the physical condition and health of workers as well as on their efficiency. This study was conducted on 18 assembly line workers. ERAI identifies the level of exposure of the neck, trunk, shoulders/arms, wrists/hands and feet and can be used using printed forms, but it is preferred to use software that implements this method, thus avoiding errors. For this purpose, we have developed the ERAI software application that allows the management of the entire evaluation project. The main activities, the sub-activities carried out by the worker, together with the anthropometric characteristics are entered into the application, evaluating the posture of each part of the body, the effort exerted, the physical condition, etc. ERAI highlights the possible problems related to the physical condition of workers, e.g., there are three workers with a weaker physical condition, and the score for them is between 258 and 282, which is very high compared to the score of the other workers, which varies between 43 and 141. The results obtained with ERAI provide a correct diagnosis, facilitating effective ergonomic interventions to reduce the level of exposure.
Analyzing and Modeling the Municipal Sewage Sludge Drying Process Using Python
Authors: Mihelič Erik , Klinar Dušan , Rižnar Klavdija , Oprčkal Primož
Published: November 2023

The programming language Python offers the opportunity to analyze and model the municipal sewage sludge (MSS) drying process in an illustrative chemical engineering practice. The drying process is performed on a flat plate while maintaining a uniform, parallel drying air speed. The Python program helps to analyze the digitalized weight measurements from each sample. The program enables the sorting of input data, determination of the drying critical point, and evaluation of the first and second drying periods. Moreover, the model calculates the fundamental drying parameter and forms a drying master curve to support the transfer to different drying conditions. The basic parameters calculated are mass transfer coefficient, heat transfer coefficient, and diffusion coefficient. The results are consistent with published data for those coefficients over the drying temperature range of 19.4–52.4 °C and relative humidity range of 8.2–33.6%. The findings of this study demonstrate the potential of Python as a powerful tool for analyzing experimental data and modeling chemical processes, which can lead to improved process design, optimization, and control.
Returning to Spiritual Sense: Cruciform Power and Queer Identities in Analytic Theology
Authors: Bennett David A. C.
Published: November 2023

In recent theological scholarship, there has been a wave of interest in the tradition of spiritual sense and marginal social identities within analytic and philosophical theology. In this article, I explore the theologies of spiritual sense in analytic theology (AT) to highlight part of the reason for the predominance of cisgender heterosexual voices in the field. Many feminist voices in AT express a common concern for a lack of integration between the mind, the body, and spiritual sense, which has enshrined the post-enlightenment cisgender heterosexual ‘man of reason’. Through an exploration of these feminist voices (Sarah Coakley and Michelle Panchuk), I argue that the field does not simply need more diverse voices but also voices of spiritual sense that undo a straight cisgender elitism. This elitism has kept the field from widely examining the anthropological questions of sexuality and gender, ethics, and theodicean dilemmas of desire and faith. By opening analytic philosophical approaches to spiritual sense, the field releases noetic control that has two consequential outcomes. Firstly, the field revalorizes pneumatology and ethics. Secondly, as a consequence of this, the field can see those who were previously unseen and heard, and, therefore, AT can develop into a sensing and thinking discipline capable of perceiving the queer or other in its midst. Spiritual sense and its priority for bodily and cruciform realities of suffering and desire can move the field from homogeneity to embracing the diverse ethical concerns of sexuality, gender, and race, and subaltern or queer subjectivities which are yet to be represented well in its midst. Using a distinctly neo-Augustinian approach, I argue that Augustine’s philosophy of the amor dei, with its emphasis on analytic clarity and inner spiritual sense, can redeem the eyes of AT’s heart.
Inconsistency in Managers’ Disclosure Tone: The Signalling Perspective
Authors: Pouryousof Azam , Nassirzadeh Farzaneh , Askarany Davood
Published: November 2023

This article examines the factors contributing to the disparity in managers’ disclosure tone from a signalling perspective. According to this viewpoint, managers intentionally choose their tone to convey information to the market. To determine the origin of tone inconsistency, we explored the association between future financial performance (as measured by the rate of return on assets (ROA) and rate of return on equity (ROE)) and future financial risk (as measured by the standard deviation of ROA and ROE) with the tone of management discussion and analyses (MD&As). The Loughran and McDonald dictionaries were utilised to assess managers’ tone in the MD&As. Our dataset consisted of 1510 MD&As from 156 companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange, covering 2013 to 2022. Multiple regression analysis was employed, controlling for industry and year fixed effects. The findings revealed a significant relationship between future financial performance, future financial risk, and MD&A tone inconsistency. Thus, the biased tone observed in Iranian managers’ MD&As can be explained by signalling theory. This study contributes to the existing literature by being the first to investigate signalling as a source of inconsistency in managers’ disclosure tone.
Self-Attention Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory for Short-Term Arctic Sea Ice Motion Prediction Using Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer Earth Observing System 36.5 GHz Data
Authors: Zhong Dengyan , Liu Na , Yang Lei , Lin Lina , Chen Hongxia
Published: November 2023

Over the past four decades, Arctic sea ice coverage has steadily declined. This loss of sea ice has amplified solar radiation and heat absorption from the ocean, exacerbating both polar ice loss and global warming. It has also accelerated changes in sea ice movement, posing safety risks for ship navigation. In recent years, numerical prediction models have dominated the field of sea ice movement prediction. However, these models often rely on extensive data sources, which can be limited in specific time periods or regions, reducing their applicability. This study introduces a novel approach for predicting Arctic sea ice motion within a 10-day window. We employ a Self-Attention ConvLSTM deep learning network based on single-source data, specifically optical flow derived from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer Earth Observing System 36.5 GHz data, covering the entire Arctic region. Upon verification, our method shows a reduction of 0.80 to 1.18 km in average mean absolute error over a 10-day period when compared to ConvLSTM, demonstrating its improved ability to capture the spatiotemporal correlation of sea ice motion vector fields and provide accurate predictions.
Comparing the Financial and Environmental Impact of Battery Energy Storage Systems and Diesel Generators on Microgrids
Authors: Costa Tatiane , Souza Amanda C. M. , Vasconcelos Andrea , Rode Ana Clara , Filho Roberto Dias , Marinho Manoel H. N.
Published: November 2023

This article presents a robust analysis based on the data obtained from a genuine microgrid in operation, simulated by utilizing a diesel generator (DG) in lieu of the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to meet the same load during periods of elevated energy costs. The study reveals that the BESS significantly outperforms the DG and the conventional electrical grid in various financial and environmental aspects. Environmentally, BESS accounts for zero CO2 emissions, compared to the 67.32 tons of CO2 emitted annually by the DG. Financially, the total cost of BESS over 20 years (USD 1,553,791.31) is lower than that of DG (USD 1,564,965.18) and the electrical grid (USD 2,726,181.09). Furthermore, BESS displays a lower Required Average Discharge Price—RADP (USD 0.38/kWh) and Required Average Price Spread—RAPS (USD 0.18/kWh) compared to DG (RADP: USD 0.39/kWh; RAPS: USD 0.22/kWh) and the electrical grid (RADP: USD 0.71/kWh; RAPS: USD 0.38/kWh). During periods of high-energy tariffs, BESS provides significant environmental benefits, but it also offers a more economically advantageous option to meet the load. It offers an energy-efficient and economically feasible solution for the operation of microgrids.
Board Diversity and Corporate Sustainability Performance: Do CEO Power and Firm Environmental Sensitivity Matter?
Authors: Donkor Augustine , Trireksani Terri , Djajadikerta Hadrian Geri
Published: November 2023

The study assesses whether CEO power and firm environmental sensitivity matter to board diversity (i.e., board cultural (BCD) and board gender (BGD) diversity) and corporate sustainability performance nexus. Australian S&P/ASX300′s firm data for a period of ten years (2011–2020) were used in the study’s analysis. Although board diversity positively influences ESG performance, the presence of powerful CEOs and when firms operate in environmentally sensitive industries weaken the board diversity and sustainability performance nexus. Additionally, the study found that although board diversity is essential, the effect of BGD has a greater statistical power on sustainability than BCD, affirming the present focus on BGD.
How Do Institutional Arrangements Affect Corporate Social Mobility? Evidence from Construction Land Reduction
Authors: Lu Jianglin , Wang Keqiang , Liu Hongmei
Published: November 2023

Enhancing corporate social mobility is of great practical importance for improving economic dynamism. There are new institutional arrangements in place to optimize construction land structure, i.e., construction land reduction. The impact of institutional arrangements on corporate social mobility has not yet been explored in academia. There is also a lack of academic discussion on how to enhance corporate social mobility. This paper investigates the impact of institutional arrangements on corporate social mobility using construction land reduction as an example. The following findings are discussed: (1) Construction land reduction is an important institutional arrangement for solving problems of inefficiencies such as inefficient corporates, the transfer of inefficient construction land, spatial quotas’ allocation, and macro use conversion. (2) Construction land reduction significantly promotes corporate social mobility. (3) Compared to non-cadre residents, cadres perceive greater corporate social mobility. (4) Compared to planned incremental-type areas, planned decremental-type areas are the key areas for construction land reduction, which can free up more space for construction land and is more conducive to improving corporate social mobility. Accordingly, policy implications are proposed to improve construction land reduction policies and promote corporate social mobility.
Design and Analysis of a Peak Time Estimation Framework for Vehicle Occurrences at Solar Photovoltaic and Grid-Based Battery-Swappable Charging Stations
Authors: Azeem Fawad , Irshad Bakhtawar , Zidan Hasan A. , Narejo Ghous Bakhsh , Hussain Muhammad Imtiaz , Manzoor Tareq
Published: November 2023

Due to global environmental impacts, the electric vehicle (EV) adoption rate is increasing. However, unlike conventional petrol vehicles, EVs take a considerable time to charge. EVs on the road with different battery charging statuses and driving demographics may cause uncertain peak time arrivals at charging stations. Battery-swappable charging stations are a quick and easier way to replace uncharged batteries with charged ones. However, charging due to uncertain EV arrival causes higher charging profiles posing load to the grid, management of charged and discharged batteries, and peak time charging tariffs. These challenges hinder the wide operation of battery-swappable charging stations. Nevertheless, a pre-assessment of peak hours using EV demographics can reduce congestion. In recent literature surveys for battery-swappable charging stations, spot congestion has not been given much attention, which has a direct influence on the sizing and operation of battery-swappable charging stations. This research study is focused on estimating peak time events using a novel integrated techno-economic assessment framework. A fuzzy-based parametric assessment tool is developed that identifies the factors that influence higher congestion events. Based on the peak event assessment, grid, and solar PV-based generation is optimized using mixed integer linear programming. In the final step, an environment analysis of a swappable charging station is performed. Furthermore, the results achieved using the proposed framework for battery-swappable charging stations (BSCSs) were compared with fast-charging (FC) stations. FC can economically perform well if integrated with solar PV systems; however, the capital cost is 80% greater than the BSCSs designed under the proposed framework. The operational cost of BSCSs is 39% higher than FC stations as they use 29% higher grid units than FC stations due to night operations under congestion.
Adaptive Pathways Using Emerging Technologies: Applications for Critical Transportation Infrastructure
Authors: Makhoul Nisrine , Achillopoulou Dimitra V. , Stamataki Nikoleta K. , Kromanis Rolands
Published: November 2023

Hazards are becoming more frequent and disturbing the built environment; this issue underpins the emergence of resilience-based engineering. Adaptive pathways (APs) were recently introduced to help flexible and dynamic decision making and adaptive management. Especially under the climate change challenge, APs can account for stressors occurring incrementally or cumulatively and for amplified-hazard scenarios. Continuous records from structural health monitoring (SHM) paired with emerging technologies such as machine learning and artificial intelligence can increase the reliability of measurements and predictions. Thus, emerging technologies can play a crucial role in developing APs through the lifetimes of critical infrastructure. This article contributes to the state of the art by the following four ameliorations. First, the APs are applied to the critical transportation infrastructure (CTI) for the first time. Second, an enhanced and smart AP framework for CTI is proposed; this benefits from the resilience and sustainability of emerging technologies to reduce uncertainties. Third, this innovative framework is assisted by continuous infrastructure performance assessment, which relies on continuous monitoring and mitigation measures that are implemented when needed. Next, it explores the impact of emerging technologies on structural health monitoring (SHM) and their role in enhancing resilience and adaptation by providing updated information. It also demonstrates the flexibility of monitoring systems in evolving conditions and the employment of AI techniques to manage pathways. Finally, the framework is applied to the Hollandse bridge, considering climate-change risks. The study delves into the performance, mitigation measures, and lessons learned during the life cycle of the asset.
Environmental Damage of Different Waste Treatment Scenarios by Considering Avoided Emissions Based on System Dynamics Modeling
Authors: Shahbazi Ali , Moeinaddini Mazaher , Abdoli Mohammad Ali , Hosseinzadeh Mahnaz , Jaafarzadeh Neamatollah , Sinha Rajib
Published: November 2023

This study aims to develop a comprehensive model for life cycle assessment and environmental damage cost calculations considering avoided emissions in different waste management scenarios using the system dynamics (SD) approach. Our analysis reveals that under the business-as-usual (BAU) scenario for the period 2020–2050, the total net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reach 12.5 Mt, with the highest environmental damage cost being USD 689 million. In contrast, an integrated management strategy encompassing recycling, composting, anaerobic digestion, and incineration results in a 195% reduction in net GHG emissions compared to the BAU Scenario. Concurrently, the environmental damage cost drops to USD 277 million, incorporating USD 347 million in savings, leading to a net environmental damage cost of USD −71 million. The findings affirm that accounting for emissions avoided across various treatment methods offers a more accurate estimate of environmental damage costs. Additionally, policies centered on integrated waste management are more likely to achieve sustainability. The study also demonstrates the utility of the SD approach in providing a holistic view of waste management systems and in evaluating the effectiveness of various policy strategies for sustainable waste management.
Analysis of the Water Resource Carrying Capacity in Guyuan City
Authors: Peng Wenfa , Li Chaochao , Yu Haohan , Zhang Yadong , Li Mingyang
Published: November 2023

To assess the water resource carrying capacity of Guyuan City, an analysis was conducted using the load index method, principal component analysis, and ecological water footprint method. A comprehensive analysis was carried out using these three methods to evaluate the current state of water resource carrying capacity in Guyuan City. The results indicate that the water resource carrying capacity in Guyuan City is mainly influenced by economic development factors, water supply–demand balance factors, and natural factors. During the period from 2002 to 2016, the water resource carrying capacity fluctuated in response to changes in the total water resources. However, from 2016 to 2021, it exhibited an increasing trend due to improvements in water resource utilization efficiency and effective water conservation measures. However, the water resource carrying capacity remains at a relatively low level, and it has consistently been in an overloaded state, with the development and utilization of water resources approaching their limits. Water scarcity in Guyuan City is a pressing concern, characterized by severe limitations on its potential for development and utilization. The persistent supply–demand imbalance is anticipated to impede the region’s pursuit of high-quality economic development in the foreseeable future.
Arsenic Immobilization for Paddy Field and Improvement of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Growth through Cerium–Manganese Modified Wheat Straw Biochar Application
Authors: Liang Ting , Li Lianfang
Published: November 2023

Arsenic (As) frequently emerges in paddy soils, necessitating measures to combat soil pollution and protect rice crops from As contamination. In this study, a novel functional biochar (MBC) by loading cerium manganese oxide was prepared, and its effects on soil As immobilization and As uptake by rice in two different As-contaminated paddy soils of 68.99 and 158.52 mgAs·kg−1 (marked as soil-L and soil-H, respectively) were detected. The pot experiment manifested that MBC performed better in stabilizing soil As than original biochar. The incorporation of MBC facilitated the conversion of soil active As to the stable state, promoted the growth of rice plants, and reduced As uptake by rice. Specifically, the total plant biomasses for MBC treatment were increased by 16.13–70.07% and 12.36–92.58% in soil-L and soil-H compared with CK (without material input), respectively. MBC treatments resulted in a reduction of As contents by 34.67–60.13% in roots, 43.68–66.90% in stems, and 54.72–64.65% in leaves for soil-L. Furthermore, in soil-H, the As content in rice roots, stems, and leaves showed a decrease by 49.26–79.03%, 87.10–94.63%, and 75.79–85.71% respectively. This study provides important insights for the remediation of As-contaminated paddy soil using MBC.
Microbiota-Derived Postbiotics Enhance the Proliferative Effects of Growth Factors on Satellite Cells in Cultivated Meat Applications
Authors: Celebi-Birand Dilan , Genc Kardelen , Agun Ilknur , Erikci Erdem , Akcali Kamil Can , Kiran Fadime
Published: November 2023

To satisfy the increasing demand for the protein supply of the growing global population, cultivated meat is being garnered significant attention that can meet consumer needs with a reduced impact on the planet nowadays. Due to being a nascent industry, there are still many hurdles to overcome such as cost reduction. This study aims to investigate the effect of microbiota-derived postbiotics to reduce the need for growth factors (GFs) or fetal bovine serum (FBS), as the main cost drivers of this technology. For this purpose, postbiotic Biftek-1 (B-1) was extracted from Enterococcus hirae, an isolate from cow milk microbiota, and bovine satellite cells (bSCs) were isolated from muscle biopsies, then identified by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence assay. The effects of different doses of GFs and B-1 on cell viability and myogenic profile of bSCs were evaluated. According to the results, low concentrations of GFs (40 ng/mL IGF1 and 20 ng/mL FGF2) combined with our growth medium supplement B-1 significantly increased bSCs proliferation, similar to FBS, but did not lead to any significant changes on their myogenic profiles. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first attempt to use the postbiotics on cultivated meat technology.
Numerical Simulation and Analysis of Hydraulic Turbines Based on BIM for Sustainable Development
Authors: Sun Shaonan , Liu Xiaojie , Zhang Ruijie , Liu Chunlu , Wang Ailing
Published: November 2023

Hydropower is considered to be an important way to achieve the sustainable development goal of human progress. The performance of turbines is very important to the safety and stability of hydropower stations. Most of the hydraulic turbine performance studies only use Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for performance simulation, lacking the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology and CFD. Therefore, a performance analysis model of a Francis turbine based on BIM was put forward in this paper. The BIM software OpenBuildings Designer CONNECT Edition Update 10 was used to build the hydraulic turbine model, and then the BIM model was transferred to the CFD numerical simulation platform ANSYS through the intermediate format conversion. In the ANSYS environment, the numerical simulation of different working conditions was carried out with the help of Fluent 2021 R1 software. The numerical simulation results show that the fluid velocity gradient in the volute was 2~3 m/s under the three working conditions, which was relatively stable. The water flow could progress the guide vane mechanism at a higher speed, and the drainage effect of the volute was better. There were some negative pressure areas at the back of the runner blades and the inlet of draft tube, and the negative pressure value was as high as −420,000 Pa and −436,842 Pa under maximum head conditions, which were prone to cavitation erosion. It is proven that BIM supported the hydraulic turbine performance analysis and provided a geometric information model for hydraulic turbine CFD numerical simulation, meaning that the performance analysis model based on BIM is feasible. This study can expand the application value of BIM and provide guidance for the study of hydraulic turbine numerical simulation using BIM technology in combination with CFD methods.