bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on the Evolution of Forest Landscape Patterns in the Fuxin Region of China Combining SC-UNet and Spatial Pattern Perspectives
Authors: Wang Feiyue , Yang Fan , Wang Zixue
Published: August 2024

During the vegetation growing season, the forest in the remote sensing image is more distinguishable from other background features, and the forest features are obvious and can show prominent forest area characteristics. However, deep convolutional neural network-based methods tend to overlearn the forest features in the forest extraction task, which leads to the extraction speed still having a large amount of room for improvement. In this paper, a convolutional neural network-based model is proposed based on the incorporation of spatial and channel reconstruction convolution in the U-Net model for forest extraction from remote sensing images. The network obtained an extraction accuracy of 81.781% in intersection over union (IoU), 91.317% in precision, 92.177% in recall, and 91.745% in F1-score, with a maximum improvement of 0.442% in precision when compared with the classical U-Net network. In addition, the speed of the model’s forest extraction has been improved by about 6.14 times. On this basis, we constructed a forest land dataset with high-intraclass diversity and fine-grained scale by selecting some Sentinel-2 images in Northeast China. The spatial and temporal evolutionary changes of the forest cover in the Fuxin region of Liaoning province, China, from 2019 to 2023, were obtained using this region as the study area. In addition, we obtained the change of the forest landscape pattern evolution in the Fuxin region from 2019 to 2023 based on the morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA) method. The results show that the core area of the forest landscape in the Fuxin region has shown an increasing change, and the non-core area has been decreasing. The SC-UNet method proposed in this paper can realize the high-precision and rapid extraction of forest in a wide area, and at the same time, it can provide a basis for evaluating the effectiveness of ecosystem restoration projects.
Spatiotemporal Variations in Urban Wetlands in Kazakhstan: A Case of the Taldykol Lake System in Astana City
Authors: Baigaliyeva Marzhan , Atakhanova Zauresh , Kairat Akbota
Published: August 2024

Acquiring a comprehensive understanding of the spatiotemporal dynamics of urban wetlands in Kazakhstan is crucial for their effective preservation and sustainable urban development. Our findings identify past and present Land Use Land Cover (LULC) in the capital city, providing policymakers with scientific evidence for improved management. Using remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques, this study examines the spatiotemporal changes in the Taldykol catchment area during the rapid development of Astana. In 1992, over 90% of the catchment area was grassland and vegetation. By 2022, 30% of the area became barren land. Urban areas increased by 127%, and water areas decreased by 24%. The most significant changes occurred in lakes Taldykol and Kishi Taldykol, whose areas shrank by 91% and 54%, respectively. The near-disappearance of the Taldykol wetlands is likely to contribute to rising land surface temperatures (LST), decreased natural flood control capacity, reduced biodiversity, and diminished recreational opportunities. The fate of Taldykol lakes underscores the urgent need to raise public awareness about the role of wetlands in Kazakhstan’s ecosystems and take action to preserve urban wetlands.
Filling Discrepancies between Consumer Perception and Actual Piped Water Quality to Promote the Potable Use of the Municipal Water Supply in Indonesia
Authors: Zikrina Masayu Nadiya , Kazama Shinobu , Sawangjang Benyapa , Takizawa Satoshi
Published: August 2024

Although piped water is a safely managed water source, many people prefer drinking packaged/bottled water, which undermines environmental sustainability by creating waste plastics. Thus, to encourage drinking tap water, this study aimed to identify and fill the discrepancy between consumers’ perception of and the actual quality of the municipal water supply in Indonesia. Through questionnaire surveys in three cities, i.e., Malang, Bogor, and Semarang cities, we found that the majority of the residents, namely, 82%, 58%, and 66%, respectively, drank packaged water. Although the piped water supply from Perusahaan Daerah Air Minum (PDAM) has a good appearance, color, taste, and water quality, sporadic microbial contamination was detected due to the depletion of residual chlorine. However, packaged water was also contaminated by indicator bacteria owing to storage methods. There was a notable discrepancy between the residents’ perceptions of tap water safety and their choices of drinking water sources. The residents perceived spring water as a clean source, which influenced their selection of water sources more than the costs of water. Public drinking stations installed by PDAM helped to win consumers’ trust in PDAM water, indicating that installing more public drinking stations will encourage more people to drink piped water.
Development and Evaluation of Biodegradable Weed Control Mulch Mats from End-of-Use Cotton Waste
Authors: Cao Huantian , Ludwig Kendall , Cobb Kelly , Scott Carmyia , Jin Yan , Knight Bridget , Burrichter Mary , Shen Hongqing
Published: August 2024

This research used end-of-use cotton apparel to develop mulch mats, a type of agrotextiles. The researchers collected and sorted end-of-use garments to obtain cotton textile waste. These end-of-use garments were deconstructed to obtain shredded textiles and big pieces of textiles. Using the textiles from deconstructed end-of-use garments, together with a small amount of new cotton fibers, the researchers used a Feltloom to develop needle-punched nonwoven fabrics that can be used as mulch mats. The researchers tested textile properties of these mulch mats and conducted agricultural field tests for weed control and pot tests for biodegradation. The researchers also tested the mulch mats’ soil moisture infiltration, and impact on water evaporation. The nonwoven mulch mats made from end-of-use garments have excellent weed inhibition capability and biodegradability. Compared to plastic mulch sheet, the nonwoven mulch mats are better for water utilization in rainfall watering and sprinkle irrigation but poorer in water conservation in drip irrigation. Considering durability, biodegradability, and soil temperature regulation, it is recommended to use 100% cotton and felt four times to produce mulch mats from end-of-use garments.
Blockchain-Enabled Provenance and Supply Chain Governance for Indigenous Foods and Botanicals: A Design Approach Study
Authors: Powell Warwick , Sultanbawa Yasmina , Thomson Madonna , Sivakumar Dharini , Dipu Mokaddes Ahmed , Williams Luke , Turner-Morris Charles , Sigley Gary , He Shan
Published: August 2024

Ensuring Indigenous producers realize and capture provenance value from the native foods and botanicals supply chain is a key part of achieving economic, community, and ecological sustainability for Indigenous communities. Utilizing blockchain technology to support validated provenance claims throughout supply chain processes is an important intervention toward achieving this objective. This paper presents the preliminary results of an ongoing project in which blockchain technology underpins a “whole of supply chain” approach to addressing issues of provenance value claims and how these are validated within a digitalized environment. The paper focuses on the overarching objectives of achieving provenance value-based growth, and sustainability within a collaborative governance framework that reflects Indigenous community practice. We discuss how technology design and application developments have been undertaken in the context of a cooperative governance model, with the long-term view of enabling ecosystem participants to share responsibility for system development, operations, and benefits. The paper presents a provenance claims approach anchored in a Resources, Events, and Agents (REA) framework. It showcases the first version of a digital application that was developed by engaging a user community. How the application may be applied to other sectors is also briefly explored.
How Green Performance Is Affected by Green Talent Management in Tourism and Hospitality Businesses: A Mediation Model
Authors: Alkhozaim Sultan Mohammed , Alshiha Fatimah Abdulaziz , Alnasser Emad Mohammed , Alshiha Ahmed Abdulaziz
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the impact of green talent management on green performance, focusing on the mediating roles of green organizational culture and green organizational citizenship behavior. Data were collected from employees of Saudi Arabia’s travel agencies, and 1276 valid responses were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that green talent management positively influences green performance, green organizational culture, and green organizational citizenship behavior. Additionally, the study demonstrates that green organizational culture and citizenship behavior positively affect green performance and mediate the relationship between green talent management and green performance. This research addresses a gap in the literature on tourism and hospitality, human resources management, and organizational behavior by empirically examining these relationships within Saudi Arabia travel agencies. This study also provides managerial implications for tourism and hospitality businesses, along with limitations and suggestions for future research.
Research on the Effect of Clean Energy Technology Diffusion on Energy Poverty
Authors: Jiang Yuan , Wang Weidong , Yang Mengyuan , Njie Yahya , Wang Xiaonan
Published: August 2024

Addressing energy poverty is integral to the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, and clean energy technology serves as an essential tool in mitigating this issue. Existing studies pay less attention to the correlation between the two. In this study, we quantify the spread of clean energy technology using patent citation information and analyze balanced panel data from 30 provinces in China spanning the years 2004 to 2019. The findings reveal that the diffusion of clean energy technology not only directly reduces energy poverty but also indirectly alleviates it by enhancing energy efficiency and fostering employment. However, the positive impact of technology on poverty is affected by human capital. Specifically, when the number of college students per 10,000 people in a province surpasses 179, technology diffusion becomes effective in alleviating energy poverty. Furthermore, the efficacy of this mitigation varies significantly based on different regions. Technologies originating from developed economies such as the United States, Japan, and the European Union exhibit a more substantial impact than domestic alternatives. Additionally, the effect of alleviating energy poverty is more significant in the eastern region. Therefore, we make policy recommendations for alleviating energy poverty through the use of incentive policies, exploring differentiated models of clean energy technology development, and strengthening international cooperation.
Research on the Socio-Spatial Resilience Evaluation and Evolution of the Central Area of Beijing in Transitional China
Authors: Liu Yu , Bu Shiyun , Zhang Sumeng , Xu Chan
Published: August 2024

In recent decades, the increasing threats of global climate change, natural disasters, and epidemics have brought extensive attention to resilience theory. However, most studies focus on the physical aspects of cities, overlooking the significance of the social perspective. This study addresses this gap by using social areas as the core spatial unit for analysis. By constructing a scientific indicator system and employing the set pair analysis method, this study comprehensively evaluates the multidimensional resilience levels of Beijing’s central area during its transitional period (1990–2020). The findings reveal that socio-spatial divisions, which emphasize the network structure of social relations and the dynamic changes in social spaces, are more suitable than traditional administrative divisions as fundamental units for resilience assessment. During Beijing’s transitional period, the comprehensive resilience of the central area and all social areas steadily increased, although social capital resilience faced the challenges of loss and slow recovery. Social areas with a unique internal connection, such as those based on ethnicity, exhibited more positive social capital resilience development. Additionally, social areas with lower population diversity and greater homogeneity tended to have higher comprehensive resilience and a more positive trend in social capital resilience development, whereas highly heterogeneous social areas faced significant constraints in resilience development. These findings may provide valuable insights for cities and communities to enhance their capacity to address future uncertainties and assist policymakers in making informed governance decisions.
Mainstreaming Adaptation to Climate Changes: A Comparison between Sardinia, Italy and Valencia, Spain
Authors: Cuevas-Wizner Rodrigo , Ledda Antonio , Martín Belén , Ortega Emilio , Calia Giovanna , De Montis Andrea
Published: August 2024

Climate change is a major concern and many regions, such as the European Union, are promoting the development of adaptation to climate change (ACC) strategies. This study examines the legislative contexts of Spain and Italy to guide the integration of climate adaptation measures into regional spatial planning. It specifically evaluates ACC strategies in Valencia (Spain) and Sardinia (Italy), focusing on adapting transportation infrastructure to flood risks. Through comparative analysis, the study identifies strengths, gaps, and opportunities in regional planning, emphasizing the importance of policy coherence and cross-sectoral collaboration to align strategies with global sustainability goals. Methodologically, the study employs a comparative assessment approach to analyze planning documents systematically, revealing complex relationships between sectors. We report that Valencia’s landscape strategy and Sardinia’s ACC strategy demonstrate coordinated planning efforts. Valencia sets clear policy objectives and actions, enhancing implementation effectiveness, while Sardinia’s approach shows ambiguities that could compromise policy outcomes. The proposed methodology is applicable to other regions with developed ACC strategies, offering a way to evaluate how well objectives and actions are integrated across relevant sectors. It aims to assist planners in assessing coordination among various planning sectors effectively.
Flood Susceptibility and Risk Mapping of Kathmandu Valley Watershed, Nepal
Authors: Chaudhary Umesh , Shah Mohammad Aminur Rahman , Shakya Bijay Man , Aryal Anil
Published: August 2024

Comprehensive flood risk assessment is often constrained by a lack of appropriate data in high-altitude watersheds, particularly in developing countries like Nepal, where institutional capacities are limited for mapping and monitoring flood-prone communities. This study, one of the first of its kind, produced spatial multi-criteria-based flood susceptibility, vulnerability, and risk index maps for the Kathmandu Valley (KV) watershed in Nepal using an Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) approach and Geographical Information System (GIS). The result shows that most parts of the KV (around 80%) have moderate to low flood susceptibility around the watershed but susceptibility is prominent in southern areas. Highly flood-susceptible regions (about 14%) are found mainly along the riverbanks. Flood vulnerability, primarily influenced by population density and literacy rate, is moderate to low in most areas of the watershed (around 86%), predominantly higher in the central urban areas, and gradually lower towards the edge of the watershed. Flood risks in the major portion of the watershed (around 72%), mainly in the southern and eastern parts, are estimated as moderate to low risk, whereas higher risk zones are found in the central urban areas. The high contrast in flood vulnerability scores across the watershed has mainly contributed to the variation of flood risk zones, as flood susceptibility scores are fairly distributed over the watershed. The study findings will help policymakers develop location-specific sustainable flood risk management strategies for the flood-vulnerable communities in the KV watershed.
Geothermal Resource Assessment and Development Recommendations for the Huangliu Formation in the Central Depression of the Yinggehai Basin
Authors: Chen Haiwen , Zheng Feng , Song Rongcai , Zhang Chao , Dong Ben , Zhang Jiahao , Zhang Yan , Wu Tao
Published: August 2024

As a renewable resource, geothermal energy plays an increasingly important role in global and regional energy structures. Influenced by regional tectonic activities, multi-stage thermal evolution, and continuous subsidence, the subsurface temperatures in the Yinggehai Basin has been consistently rising, resulting in the formation of multiple geothermal reservoirs. The Neogene Huangliu Formation, with its high geothermal gradients, suitable burial depths, considerable thickness, and wide distribution, provides excellent geological conditions for substantial geothermal resources. However, the thermal storage characteristics and geothermal resources of this formation have not been fully assessed, limiting their effective development. This study systematically collected and analyzed drilling, geological, and geophysical data to examine these reservoirs’ geometric structures, thermal properties, and physical characteristics. Further, we quantitatively evaluated the geothermal resource potential of the Huangliu Formation and its respective reservoirs through volumetric estimation and Monte Carlo simulations, pointing zones with high geothermal prospects and formulating targeted development strategies. The findings indicate: (1) The Yinggehai Basin exhibits an average geothermal gradient of 39.4 ± 4.7 °C/km and an average terrestrial heat flow of 77.4 ± 19.1 mW/m2, demonstrating a favorable geothermal background; (2) The central depression of the Huangliu Formation harbors considerable geothermal resource potential, with an average reservoir temperature of 140.9 °C, and a total geothermal resource quantified at approximately 2.75 × 1020 J, equivalent to 93.95 × 108 tec. Monte Carlo projections estimate the maximum potential resource at about 3.10 × 1020 J, approximately 105.9 ×108 tec. (3) Additionally, the R14 and R23 reservoirs have been identified as possessing the highest potential for geothermal resource development. The study also proposes a comprehensive utilization model that integrates offshore geothermal power generation with multiple applications. These findings provide a method for the evaluation of geothermal resources in the Yinggehai Basin and lay a foundation for the sustainable development of resources.
Integrating Artificial Intelligence into the Supply Chain in Order to Enhance Sustainable Production—A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Patalas-Maliszewska Justyna , Szmołda Małgorzata , Łosyk Hanna
Published: August 2024

Nowadays, integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into supply chains (SCs) is a great challenge in research and for manufacturing managers. The main goal of this study is to determine the role of AI in the context of the new SCs, according to the concept of Industry 5.0. in order to improve the level of sustainable production. The research was based on a systematic analysis of the scientific literature and application of the PRISMA methodology. Due to the relatively new vision of introducing AI into SC, it was decided to analyse the years 2021–2024. A total of 1181 research articles were identified in Science Direct, Springer and the Willey Online Library that combined AI-based methods and tools that support SCs in order to identify the impacts and challenges of integrating AI in SCs in the context of sustainable production (SP). In this study, 48 items were then analysed in detail. The results achieved highlighted the main AI-based tools applied in SCs and, secondly, revealed the main benefits of this integration for manufacturing in the following areas of manufacturing: predictive maintenance, production planning and customer relationships. The findings of our study revealed the main challenges and directions: (1) integrating digitalisation and green SP in order to build resilience to the SP, (2) create a sustainable work environment, (3) and develop a sustainable and advanced architecture for relationships with customers.
Anticipatory Technoeconomic Evaluation of Kentucky Bluegrass-Based Perennial Groundcover Implementations in Large-Scale Midwestern US Corn Production Systems
Authors: Bartel Cynthia A. , Jacobs Keri L. , Moore Kenneth J. , Raman D. Raj
Published: August 2024

Perennial groundcover (PGC) has promise as a scalable approach to generating natural resource benefits and sustainable biofuel feedstock while preserving the high yields of annual row crop production. Partnering row crops with temporally and spatially complementary low-growing, shallow-rooted perennials, such as Kentucky bluegrass (KBG) (Poa pratensis L.), is one example of an emerging PGC system. PGC’s ecosystem benefits can only be fully realized if commercial-scale adoption occurs, which hinges on its economic feasibility. This paper utilizes an enterprise budget framework to detail and compare the expected cost and revenue of establishing and maintaining PGC in row crop systems with standard continuous corn (SCC) (Zea mays L.) production, including stover harvest, but excluding economic incentives for ecosystem services. Optimistic and pessimistic assumptions were used, along with Monte Carlo simulation, to characterize the uncertainty in results. In the optimistic stover market scenario, Year 1 net returns for PGC averaged USD 84/ac less than for SCC; Year 2+ net returns averaged USD 83/ac more, meaning that cost parity with SCC occurs by the second PGC system year. Without stover revenue, parity is achieved after five years. These results affirm that PGC’s economic viability is critically impacted by a groundcover’s lifespan, the yield parity with SCC, and the availability of a stover market.
Transformative Social Innovation as a Guideline to Enhance the Sustainable Development Goals’ Framework
Authors: Pamplona Leonardo , Estellita Lins Marcos , Xavier Amanda , Almeida Mariza
Published: August 2024

To achieve the objectives of reversing ongoing social and environmental degradation, there is an urgent need to accelerate efforts towards more sustainable and regenerative socio-technical systems. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations’ (UN) ambitious 2030 Agenda still face significant challenges. This article explores the role of innovation in accelerating efforts, emphasizing its social and transformative aspects related to governance issues. The research method includes an initial analysis of UN reports on governance challenges. Then, some gaps related to operational aspects are identified in the SDGs’ framework, through a process-oriented view proposed by the authors. The research problem examined from this analysis is whether transformative social innovation (TSI) could help improve the operationalization of SDG indicators. A systematic literature review shows that there are no well-established guidelines to promote TSI in the SDGs’ framework. Based on the findings, this article suggests some targets and indicators linked to TSI to enhance the SDGs’ framework. This study has theoretical and practical implications for future research on leveraging the means of implementation of sustainable development policies.
Complexity Analysis of the Interaction between Government Carbon Quota Mechanism and Manufacturers’ Emission Reduction Strategies under Carbon Cap-and-Trade Mechanism
Authors: Kadeer Abudureheman , Yang Jinghan , Zhao Shiyi
Published: August 2024

Based on different carbon quota trading mechanisms, the price and emission reduction strategies of oligopoly manufacturers in the low-carbon market and the government carbon quota mechanism are considered. A dynamic game evolution model of the two oligopoly manufacturers with competitive relations is established. The stability of the equilibrium point of the game model, the price adjustment speed of the decision variable, the impact of carbon emission reduction investment, and the government carbon quota on the system are discussed. Through nonlinear dynamics research, it is found that the advantage of the grandfathering method is that it is conducive to maintaining market stability when the government’s carbon quota decision changes; the advantage of the benchmarking method is that when manufacturers formulate price adjustment strategies, the benchmarking method carbon quota mechanism has a stronger stability range for the market, the manufacturer’s profit price adjustment speed is positively correlated, and the government carbon quota decision and emission reduction investment are also positively correlated. Decision makers need to choose appropriate carbon quota mechanisms and manufacturers’ emission reduction strategies according to actual market changes to maintain supply chain stability.
Rapid Climate Change, Integrated Human–Environment–Historical Records and Societal Resilience in Georgia
Authors: Loveluck Christopher P. , Tielidze Levan G. , Elashvili Mikheil , Kurbatov Andrei V. , Gadrani Lela , Erb-Satullo Nathaniel , von Suchodoletz Hans , Dan Anca , Laermanns Hannes , Brückner Helmut , Schlotzhauer Udo , Sulava Nino , Chagelishvili Rusudan
Published: August 2024

In the midlatitudes of the planet, we are facing the imminent disappearance of one of our best high-resolution (pre)historic climate and anthropogenic pollution archives, namely the loss of glacial ice, through accelerated global warming. To capture these records and interpret these vanishing archives, it is imperative that we extract ice-cores from midlatitude regions where glaciers still survive and analyse them within frameworks of inter-disciplinary research. In this paper, we focus on Georgia, part of the Greater Caucasus. Results of ice-core analyses from the region have never, to date, been integrated with its other abundant palaeo-environmental, archaeological and historical sources. We review the results of international projects on palaeo-environmental/geoarchaeological sediment archives, the archaeology of metal economies and preliminary ice-core data in Georgia. Collectively, we show that the different strands need to be integrated to fully explore relationships between climate/landscape change and human societal transformations. We then introduce an inclusive interdisciplinary framework for ongoing research on these themes, with an ultimate future goal of using data from the past to inform societal resilience strategies in the present.
Unveiling the Depths: Unravelling Stakeholder Values in the Landscape of Bangkok’s Urban Waterways
Authors: Numsuk Wanida , Dempsey Nicola
Published: August 2024

The city of Bangkok is built on an elaborate network of waterways shaped by its historical settlement process, underscoring the profound bond between humans and the natural landscape. In light of Bangkok’s rapid urban transformation and its status as one of Southeast Asia’s most vulnerable coastal metropolises, this paper seeks to explore the intricacies of Bangkok’s waterway landscape by examining how stakeholders address its value. This research draws insights from qualitative data collection involving government agencies, experts, practitioners, NGOs, and residents from three distinct waterway communities. The paper identifies distinct value categories within Bangkok’s waterways, classified as diminishing, absent, and evolving values. These values reflect the complex landscape surrounding the waterways and their relationship with flood management and heritage preservation. The study underscores the limitations of the values expressed by government agencies and in policy documents while highlighting the potential contributions of other stakeholders in enhancing waterway management. This evidence emphasises the necessity of multi-stakeholder involvement and the application of values in decisions when developing urban resilient alternatives to the ‘business-as-usual’ model prevalent in Bangkok.
Mass Balance of Maritime Glaciers in the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau during Recent Decades
Authors: Lyu Xiaowei , Zhang Yong , Wang Huanhuan , Wang Xin
Published: August 2024

Maritime glaciers in the southeastern Tibetan Plateau (SETP) are particularly sensitive to changes in climate, and their changes directly and severely affect regional water security and glacier-related hazards. Given their large societal importance, a better understanding of the mass balance of maritime glaciers in the SETP, a key variable for characterizing the state of glacier health, is of great scientific interest. In this review, we synthesize in situ, satellite-based observations and simulations that present an overall accelerating negative mass balance of maritime glaciers in the SETP in recent decades. We hereby highlight a significant spatiotemporal difference in the mass balance of maritime glaciers across the SETP and investigate the drivers of the accelerated mass loss of these glaciers in recent years. We find that accelerated glacier mass loss agrees with the variabilities in temperatures rising and precipitation decreasing at regional scales, as well as the spatial patterns of widespread melt hotspots (e.g., thin debris, ice cliffs, supraglacial ponds, and surface streams), the expansion of glacial lakes, enlarged ice crevasses, and frequent ice avalanches. Finally, the challenges of the mass balance study of maritime glaciers and future perspectives are proposed. Our review confirms the urgent need to improve the existing glacier inventory and establish comprehensive monitoring networks in data-scarce glacierized catchments, and it suggests paying particular attention to the development of glacier mass-balance models that coupe multiple physical processes at different interfaces to predict the status of maritime glaciers and their responses to climate change. This study can inform the sustainable management of water resources and the assessment of socio-economic vulnerability due to glacier-related hazards in the SETP and its surroundings in the context of marked atmospheric warming.
A Dynamic Approach to Sustainable Knitted Footwear Production in Industry 4.0: Integrating Short-Term Profitability and Long-Term Carbon Efficiency
Authors: Tsai Wen-Hsien , Su Poching
Published: August 2024

This study proposes a novel approach to support sustainable decision-making in knitted shoe manufacturing by integrating activity-based costing (ABC), the theory of constraints (TOC), and carbon emission costs into a comprehensive mathematical programming model. The model is applied to evaluate the impact of different carbon tax and carbon trading policies on the profitability and product mix of a knitted shoe company in Taiwan. The model considers single-period and multi-period scenarios, as well as continuous and discontinuous carbon tax functions, with and without carbon trading. The results show that a continuous carbon tax leads to higher profitability in single-period models, while a continuous carbon tax function combined with carbon trading yields the highest profits in multi-period models. Reducing the carbon emission cap is found to be more effective in curbing emissions than raising carbon taxes. This research contributes to sustainable operations management by providing a holistic approach that integrates cost control, profit optimization, and environmental sustainability in the context of Industry 4.0. The findings offer valuable insights for footwear manufacturers in making strategic decisions and for governments in designing effective carbon tax and emission trading schemes to drive industrial transformation towards a low-carbon economy.
Modular Open Chamber Stand for Biomass Densification Using the Example of Miscanthus × Giganteus Greef Et Deu
Authors: Styks Jakub , Wróbel Marek
Published: August 2024

This article presents a modular open chamber stand which simulates the densification process that occurs in a single channel of a pelletising die. The results of the verification tests confirmed the suitability of this stand for determining the optimal geometry of the channel. The test material was the biomass of Miscanthus × giganteus which is considered to be a difficult material for pressure densification; therefore, it was decided that it would be a good material for verifying the stand. The stand consists of four modules: an introductory section with a diameter of D = 12 and 10 mm, a conical part with an angle of α = 10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, a cylindrical part with lengths L = 5, 15, 25, 35, 45 mm and diameter d= 8 mm and a pellet receiving module. The stand is able to heat the densification channel. Individual modules can be assembled into test combinations; this results in a change in channel geometry without the necessity to manufacture many singular channels. The optimum geometry of the channel for miscanthus with a moisture content of 13%, densified at 100 °C was determined. It should be a channel with D = 10 mm, α = 40° and L = 18 mm.
Effect of Different Sustainable Cultivation Methods on the Biometric Parameters and Yield of Mint
Authors: Majkowska-Gadomska Joanna , Kaliniewicz Zdzisław , Mikulewicz Emilia , Francke Anna , Jadwisieńczak Krzysztof K. , Marks Marek , Choszcz Dariusz J. , Kozłowski Wojciech
Published: August 2024

Mint is one of the most valuable herbs, and has multiple benefits and uses. The effect of cultivation methods on the biometric parameters of mint plants was determined by comparing a hydroponic system involving moveable flood tables with plastic covers and a raised-bed growing system in an open field. The morphometric parameters of mint plants may vary depending on species and cultivation method. An interaction between both factors was observed for plant height, leaf length, leaf width, and the number of leaves. Spearmint and apple mint grown under field conditions were characterized by higher average values of plant height and width and a higher number of branches than hydroponically grown plants. In the hydroponic system, the number of branched stems decreased by up to 80% with increased plant height. Leaf width was correlated with the total number of leaves. An increase in the number of leaves per plant induced a decrease in leaf width (up to 61%). Field-grown mint is usually characterized by higher marketable and total yields than hydroponically grown mint. However, the marketable yield of apple mint was approximately 50% higher in the hydroponic system than in the field.
Green Innovation at the Crossroads of Financial Development, Resource Depletion, and Urbanization: Paving the Way to a Sustainable Future from the Perspective of an MM-QR Approach
Authors: Liu Wen , Waqas Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Global warming has become a big problem around the world, and it is because of what people do. As a possible answer, countries are looking for ways to keep their economies growing and invest in technologies that use clean energy. Therefore, the notion of carbon neutrality has emerged as a crucial policy strategy for nations to attain sustainable development. This study expands the existing discussions on carbon neutrality by investigating the influence of key factors, including green innovation, financial development, natural resources depletion, trade openness, institutional quality, growth, and urbanization on the progress made towards attaining a carbon neutral state in the BRICS nations. This study considers the Method of Moment Quantile-Regression (MM-QR) and Prais–Winsten correlated panel corrected standard errors (PCSEs) estimators to investigate the study objectives over the period of 1990–2021. Under the investigated outcomes, this study validated the significant role of urbanization and growth in carbon neutrality. On the other hand, this study finds the positive role of openness, green innovation, resource depletion, institutional quality, and financial development on environmental deterioration. However, under a systematic analysis, this study utilizes different proxies of the financial sector, for instance, financial complexity, financial efficiency, financial stability, and domestic credit by financial sector, and provides interesting outcomes. Based on these outcomes, this study also provides suggestions to attain desired levels of sustainability.
The Effect of Corporate Social Responsibility on Environmental Performance in China’s Manufacturing Industry: The Mediating Role of Environmental Strategy and Green Innovation
Authors: Khoshnaw Zana , Ali Khairi Ali Auso , Mousa Kawar Mohammed
Published: August 2024

Within the ever-changing manufacturing landscape of China, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a key factor influencing environmental performance. Knowing the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts and environmental results is crucial as environmental concerns throughout the world grow more pressing. This research explores the complex relationship between CSR practices and environmental performance, focusing on how green innovation and environmental strategy function as mediating factors. The urgent need to prevent industrial environmental consequences in the face of fast economic expansion highlights the need for this investigation. China, a major force in world manufacturing, must balance environmental sustainability with economic expansion. In addition to improving a company’s reputation, effective CSR initiatives are essential for promoting sustainable development. Through an analysis of the mediating functions of green innovation, which propels technological developments, and environmental strategy, which comprises policies and practices, we clarify how proactive CSR methods can ignite revolutionary shifts towards more environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. In order to create a harmonious balance between industrial growth and ecological stewardship, this research aims to provide theoretical insights as well as practical implications for industry leaders and policymakers. It achieves this by promoting strategic alignment between CSR goals and environmental imperatives.
Revealing How Much Drivers Understand about Vehicle Pollutants: Towards Development of Information Campaigns
Authors: Batool Zahara , Jamson Samantha , Forward Sonja
Published: August 2024

Thirty-four interviews were carried out with drivers in four countries to elicit their understanding about pollutants, specifically nitrogen dioxide (NOX) and particulate matter (PM). The results showed that most of the participants knew that cars emitted carbon dioxide (CO2), but they were less aware of the emission of NOx and PM. Also, being aware of the negative impacts of pollutants did not necessarily lead to eco-friendly vehicle choices. Most of the drivers were aware of pollutant friendly behaviours such as avoiding harsh acceleration/deceleration and maintaining smooth speed but were unaware of behaviours such as efficient gear use, avoiding engine idling, or anticipation of traffic ahead. Only a few mentioned pre-trip or strategic level behaviours (e.g., vehicle size/weight or the selection of appropriate routes and avoidance of traffic congestion). The results could be used to design educational material to raise awareness and provide drivers with tips to reduce their pollutant emissions.
Value Management: Enterprises’ Interest in Stakeholders and Its Impact on Creating Sustainable Relationships with Suppliers and Buyers
Authors: Kušnírová Dana , Bubelíny Oliver , Ďurišová Mária
Published: August 2024

The paper aims to identify the connection between the enterprise’s interest in the stakeholders and their mutual relationship. It examines whether stakeholders’ opinions, priorities, needs, and goals influence the enterprise’s decisions in managing sustainable relationships with buyers and suppliers. Additionally, it explores whether the knowledge regarding the stakeholders (such as their needs, opinions, etc.) affects the relationship between the enterprise and the stakeholders. Establishing a good, mutual, long-lasting, and sustainable relationship with stakeholders is an integral part of the value creation process and value management. The study first determines whether enterprises implement value management and then assesses the impact of buyers’ and suppliers’ opinions, priorities, and goals on the decision-making process in building these relationships. It also evaluates the strength of these relationships, where a stronger relationship indicates greater sustainability. The focus is on relationships with suppliers and buyers, with responses collected from 385 Slovak manufacturing enterprises. The analysis of how knowledge of stakeholders’ needs, priorities, and goals impacts relationships with suppliers and buyers was conducted separately using the Shapiro–Wilk test, Spearman’s correlation coefficient, and ANOVA.
Critical Individual and Organizational Drivers of Circular Economy Implementation in SMEs in Bangladesh
Authors: Faisal-E-Alam Md. , Khan Mohammad Rafiul Azam , Rahman Mohammad Azizur , Ferreira Paulo , Almeida Dora , Castanho Rui Alexandre
Published: August 2024

This study aims to examine the influence of individual and organizational factors on the implementation of circular economy (CE) practices in SMEs in Bangladesh. A non-probability sampling technique is utilized to select a sample of 280 respondents from the textile and leather industries. Data are collected through a survey assessing individual factors such as environmental consciousness and innovation propensity, as well as organizational factors including leadership commitment and training and development programs. A frequency table is used to give the respondents’ details, and skewness and kurtosis are conducted to find the data normality. Reliability and validity analyses are conducted to ensure the robustness of the measurement instruments. A correlation matrix is generated to examine the relationships between variables, followed by a multiple regression analysis to test the hypothesized relationships. The preliminary findings indicate a significant correlation between individual and organizational factors and the implementation of CE practices. The multiple regression analysis reveals that both sets of factors contribute significantly to explaining the variance in CE implementation. The results indicate that environmental consciousness, innovation propensity, leadership commitment, and training and development programs emerge as significant predictors of CE implementation within these industries. This study offers valuable insights and sheds light on the role of individual and organizational factors in shaping sustainable practices. The findings contribute to the explanatory literature on CE implementation, providing empirical evidence to inform policymaking and business strategies aimed at promoting sustainability in the SME sector and beyond.
The Use of Male Implants in Thyroplasty Reinterventions for Female Patients: A Case Series Study
Authors: Oishi Natsuki , Orozco-Núñez Sara , Zapater Enrique
Published: August 2024

Montgomery’s medialization thyroplasty is a laryngeal frame surgery to treat patients with unilateral vocal cord paralysis. This procedure uses a silicone implant in six sizes each for male and female patients. The results of this technique are generally good; however, the results can be suboptimal in some female patients because of differences in female and male laryngeal anatomy. The angle formed by the thyroid cartilage is greater in women than in men, meaning that the posterior portion of this cartilage is further away from the midline in women. We describe our results using male prostheses to improve suboptimal results in some of our female patients. This study is a retrospective case series study. We included female patients who underwent thyroplasty reintervention from 2014 to 2021 using male Montgomery thyroplasty prostheses. Functional results were studied using maximum phonation time (MPT), the GRBAS scales, and two questionnaires: Voice-Handicap Index 30 and Eating Assessment Tool 10. The functional results for all of these women improved after secondary thyroplasty. In one case, the MPT parameter did not change but patient satisfaction improved. The use of male Montgomery implants in women can be a useful tool to achieve improvement in female thyroplasty failure.
On the Spanning Cyclability of k-ary n-cube Networks
Authors: Qiao Hongwei , Zhang Wanping
Published: August 2024

Embedding cycles into a network topology is crucial for a network simulation. In particular, embedding Hamiltonian cycles is a major requirement for designing good interconnection networks. A graph G is called r-spanning cyclable if, for any r distinct vertices v1,v2,…,vr of G, there exist r cycles C1,C2,…,Cr in G such that vi is on Ci for every i, and every vertex of G is on exactly one cycle Ci. If r=1, this is the classical Hamiltonian problem. In this paper, we focus on the problem of embedding spanning disjoint cycles in bipartite k-ary n-cubes. Let k≥4 be even and n≥2. It is shown that the n-dimensional bipartite k-ary n-cube Qnk is m-spanning cyclable with m≤2n−1. Considering the degree of Qnk, the result is optimal.
Stable Majorana Zero-Energy Modes in Two-Dimensional Josephson Junctions
Authors: Huang Yuting , Wang Qinyi , Li Lei , Wen Zhenying
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a modified Josephson junction model is proposed, which splits the two-dimensional electron gas by inserting a middle superconductor strip into a conventional Josephson junction. This modification enhances the superconducting proximity effect, thus avoiding the appearance of a soft gap and inducing a stable Majorana zero-energy mode. Through numerical simulation, the impact of the middle superconductor strip with different widths on the energy band structure is studied, and a significant increase in the topological energy gap is found. In addition, the modified system maintains a robust topological gap even at a strong in-plane magnetic field.
A Modified Brain Storm Optimization Algorithm for Solving Scheduling of Double-End Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems
Authors: Hu Liduo , Geng Sai , Zhang Wei , Yan Chenhang , Hu Zhi , Cai Yuhang
Published: August 2024

As a product of modern development, logistics plays a significant role in economic growth with its advantages of integrated management, unified operations, and speed. With the rapid advancement of technology and economy, traditional manual storage and retrieval methods can no longer meet industry demands. Achieving efficient storage and retrieval of goods on densely packed, symmetrically shaped logistics shelves has become a critical issue that needs urgent resolution. The brain storm optimization (BSO) algorithm, introduced in 2010, has found extensive applications across various fields. This paper presents a modified BSO algorithm (MBSO) aimed at addressing the scheduling challenges of double-end automated storage and retrieval systems (DE-AS/RSs). Traditional AS/RSs suffer from slow scheduling efficiency and the current heuristic algorithms exhibit low accuracy. To overcome these limitations, we propose a new scheduling strategy for the stacker to select I/O stations in DE-AS/RSs. The MBSO incorporates two key enhancements to the basic BSO algorithm. First, it employs an objective space clustering method in place of the standard k-means clustering to achieve more accurate solutions for AS/RS scheduling problems. Second, it utilizes a mutation operation based on a greedy strategy and an improved crossover operation for updating individuals. Extensive comparisons were made between the well-known heuristic algorithms NIGA and BSO in several specific enterprise warehouse scenarios. The experimental results show that the MBSO has significant accuracy, optimization speed, and robustness in solving scheduling of AS/RSs.