bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Future Land Use and Flood Risk Assessment in the Guanzhong Plain, China: Scenario Analysis and the Impact of Climate Change
Authors: Luo Pingping , Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Lei , Mohd Arif Zainol Mohd Remy Rozainy , Duan Weili , Hu Maochuan , Guo Bin , Zhang Yuzhu , Wang Yihe , Nover Daniel
Published: December 2023

Continuously global warming and landscape change have aggravated the damage of flood disasters to ecological safety and sustainable development. If the risk of flood disasters under climate and land-use changes can be predicted and evaluated, it will be conducive to flood control, disaster reduction, and global sustainable development. This study uses bias correction and spatial downscaling (BCSD), patch-generating land-use simulation (PLUS) coupled with multi-objective optimization (MOP), and entropy weighting to construct a 1 km resolution flood risk assessment framework for the Guanzhong Plain under multiple future scenarios. The results of this study show that BCSD can process the 6th Climate Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) data well, with a correlation coefficient of up to 0.98, and that the Kappa coefficient is 0.85. Under the SSP126 scenario, the change in land use from cultivated land to forest land, urban land, and water bodies remained unchanged. In 2030, the proportion of high-risk and medium-risk flood disasters in Guanzhong Plain will be 41.5% and 43.5% respectively. From 2030 to 2040, the largest changes in risk areas were in medium- and high-risk areas. The medium-risk area decreased by 1256.448 km2 (6.4%), and the high-risk area increased by 1197.552 km2 (6.1%). The increase mainly came from the transition from the medium-risk area to the high-risk area. The most significant change in the risk area from 2040 to 2050 is the higher-risk area, which increased by 337 km2 (5.7%), while the medium- and high-risk areas decreased by 726.384 km2 (3.7%) and 667.488 km2 (3.4%), respectively. Under the SSP245 scenario, land use changes from other land use to urban land use; the spatial distribution of the overall flood risk and the overall flood risk of the SSP126 and SSP245 scenarios are similar. The central and western regions of the Guanzhong Plain are prone to future floods, and the high-wind areas are mainly distributed along the Weihe River. In general, the flood risk in the Guanzhong Plain increases, and the research results have guiding significance for flood control in Guanzhong and global plain areas.
Fast UAV Image Mosaicking by a Triangulated Irregular Network of Bucketed Tiepoints
Authors: Yoon Sung-Joo , Kim Taejung
Published: December 2023

To take full advantage of rapidly deployable unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), it is essential to effectively compose many UAV images into one observation image over a region of interest. In this paper, we propose fast image mosaicking using a triangulated irregular network (TIN) constructed from tiepoints. We conduct pairwise tiepoint extraction and rigorous bundle adjustment to generate rigorous tiepoints. We apply a bucketing algorithm to the tiepoints and generate evenly distributed tiepoints. We then construct a TIN from the bucketed tiepoints and extract seamlines for image stitching based on the TIN. Image mosaicking is completed by mapping UAV images along the seamlines onto a reference plane. The experimental results showed that the image mosaicking based on a TIN of bucketed tiepoints could produce image mosaics with stable and fast performance. We expect that our method could be used for rapid image mosaicking.
Algorithm–Hardware Co-Optimization and Deployment Method for Field-Programmable Gate-Array-Based Convolutional Neural Network Remote Sensing Image Processing
Authors: Ni Shuo , Wei Xin , Zhang Ning , Chen He
Published: December 2023

In recent years, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have gained widespread adoption in remote sensing image processing. Deploying CNN-based algorithms on satellite edge devices can alleviate the strain on data downlinks. However, CNN algorithms present challenges due to their large parameter count and high computational requirements, which conflict with the satellite platforms’ low power consumption and high real-time requirements. Moreover, remote sensing image processing tasks are diverse, requiring the platform to accommodate various network structures. To address these issues, this paper proposes an algorithm–hardware co-optimization and deployment method for FPGA-based CNN remote sensing image processing. Firstly, a series of hardware-centric model optimization techniques are proposed, including operator fusion and depth-first mapping technology, to minimize the resource overhead of CNN models. Furthermore, a versatile hardware accelerator is proposed to accelerate a wide range of commonly used CNN models after optimization. The accelerator architecture mainly consists of a parallel configurable network processing unit and a multi-level storage structure, enabling the processing of optimized networks with high throughput and low power consumption. To verify the superiority of our method, the introduced accelerator was deployed on an AMD-Xilinx VC709 evaluation board, on which the improved YOLOv2, VGG-16, and ResNet-34 networks were deployed. Experiments show that the power consumption of the accelerator is 14.97 W, and the throughput of the three networks reaches 386.74 giga operations per second (GOPS), 344.44 GOPS, and 182.34 GOPS, respectively. Comparison with related work demonstrates that the co-optimization and deployment method can accelerate remote sensing image processing CNN models and is suitable for applications in satellite edge devices.
A Two-Dimensional Eight-Node Quadrilateral Inverse Element for Shape Sensing and Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Li Mingyang , Oterkus Erkan , Oterkus Selda
Published: December 2023

The inverse finite element method (iFEM) is a powerful tool for shape sensing and structural health monitoring and has several advantages with respect to some other existing approaches. In this study, a two-dimensional eight-node quadrilateral inverse finite element formulation is presented. The element is suitable for thin structures under in-plane loading conditions. To validate the accuracy and demonstrate the capability of the inverse element, four different numerical cases are considered for different loading and boundary conditions. iFEM analysis results are compared with regular finite element analysis results as the reference solution and very good agreement is observed between the two solutions, demonstrating the capability of the iFEM approach.
Breaking the Equilibrium and Improving the Yield of Schiff Base Reactions by Pervaporation: Application to a Reaction Involving n-butylamine and Benzaldehyde
Authors: Al Khulaifi Rana Salem , AlShehri Mohammed Mousa , Al-Qadsy Inas , Al Jufareen Mona A. , Saeed Waseem Sharaf , Badjah-Hadj-Ahmed Ahmed Yacine , Aouak Taieb
Published: December 2023

A comparative study of a Schiff base reaction involving benzaldehyde and n-butylamine was carried out to improve the yield of the resulting imine. This reaction was carried out at different temperatures without and with the elimination of the water produced during the process by the pervaporation (PV) technique using a typical cylindrical cell. To reach this goal, different dense membranes made of crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) with different oxalic acid (crosslinker) contents were prepared by the solvent casting method. Different parameters influencing the performance of the membrane in the separation process including swellability, diffusivity, crosslinking density, and thermal properties were investigated. The total and partial cumulative transmembranar fluxes as well as the separation factor were studied and the separation process was monitored by HPLC analysis. The n-butyl-1-phenylmethanimine produced was characterized by FTIR and 1HNMR analyses. The results obtained were a clear improvement in the yield of the reaction. For example, the yield obtained from the Schiff base reaction occurring without assistance by PV varied from 58 to 84 wt% when the temperature changed from 5 to 45 °C. On the other hand, when the PV process was used to eliminate water from this reaction mixture, the yield went from 90.4 to 98.6% by weight in this same temperature order. The cumulative total and partial fluxes significantly decreased with time. On the other hand, the separation factor reached a maximum at about one hour at 5, 15, and 45 °C. At 25 °C, the maximum total flux was reached at about 2 h of the PV process. The best selectivity of the PVA-0.5 membrane with regard to water was obtained at 15 °C. It was also revealed from the results obtained that the cumulative total and partial flux decreased rapidly with time and the separation factor reached a maximum at one hour into the PV process, in which 1.51 × 104 was reached at 15 °C, 6.25 × 103 and 3.50 × 103 at one hour of the separation process, and 10.23 × 103 at 25 °C at 2 h of the water removal by PV.
Tech Giants’ Responsible Innovation and Technology Strategy: An International Policy Review
Authors: Li Wenda , Yigitcanlar Tan , Nili Alireza , Browne Will
Published: December 2023

As digital technology continues to evolve rapidly and get integrated into various aspects of our cities and societies, the alignment of technological advancements with societal values becomes paramount. The evolving socio-technical landscape has prompted an increased focus on responsible innovation and technology (RIT) among technology companies, driven by mounting public scrutiny, regulatory pressure, and concerns about reputation and long-term sustainability. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on responsible practices by conducting a policy review that delves into insights from the most influential high-tech companies’—so-called tech giants’—RIT guidance. The findings disclose that (a) leading high-tech companies have started to focus on RIT; (b) the main RIT policy focus of the leading high-tech companies is artificial intelligence; (c) trustworthiness and acceptability of technology are the most common policy areas; (d) affordability related to technology outcomes and adoption is almost absent from the policy; and (e) sustainability considerations are rarely part of the RIT policy, but are included in annual corporate reporting. Additionally, this paper proposes a RIT assessment framework that integrates views from the policy community, academia, and the industry and can be used for evaluating how well high-tech companies adhere to RIT practices. The knowledge assembled in this study is instrumental in advancing RIT practices, ultimately contributing to technology-driven cities and societies that prioritise human and social well-being.
An Assessment of the Multidimensional Drivers and Determinants of Public Risk Perception of and Behaviors Related to Exposure to Air Pollution in Serbia
Authors: Stanojević Gorica , Malinović-Milićević Slavica , Ćurčić Nina B. , Radovanović Milan , Radivojević Aleksandar , Popović Teodora , Ćurčić Srećko
Published: December 2023

This study investigates factors contributing to public perception of and behaviors related to air pollution in Serbia. A range of multidimensional indicators, including demographic and socioeconomic features, health status data, and living environment factors, were utilized to evaluate observed awareness and exposure activities. Air pollution is a serious health concern in many areas of Serbia, particularly during the cold season when emissions from the heating sector contribute to high levels of particulate matter. In the period from March to May 2023, a nationwide survey was conducted to gather empirical data and insights that can assist policymakers in the creation of public-health strategies. A set of research questions included the perception of air-pollution impact and citizens’ responses to eight pre-defined exposure-reduction activities. Statistical procedures (a chi-square test of independence, a Mann–Whitney U test, and a Kruskal–Wallis H test) were applied to isolate driving factors in the public response to increased air-pollution levels. The findings suggest a “gap” between risk understanding and risk-reducing behaviors. To address this issue and to ensure that regulations are implemented effectively, it is crucial to prioritize education, develop communication strategies, increase local interventions, and target vulnerable population groups.
Can China’s Campaign-Style Environmental Regulation Improve the Green Total Factor Productivity?
Authors: Du Mingze , Zhang Tongwei , Wang Dehui
Published: December 2023

The central environmental inspection policy serves as a pivotal instrument for environmental regulation in China, closely intertwined with the nation’s economic and social development into a greener model. Based on the urban data of China from 2004 to 2018, this paper employs a regression discontinuity design to empirically test the inherent mechanism of the central environmental inspection policy’s impact on green total factor productivity, and attempts to analyze its impact on technological progress from the perspective of a bias towards technological advancement. This study found that central environmental inspections can significantly improve green total factor productivity, the mechanism behind this improvement being through the enhancement of technological progress, while having a negative impact on technical efficiency. Additionally, we found that the impact of policies on technological progress is mainly through increasing the magnitude of technological progress, rather than favoring technological progress. The results of this research provide reasonable suggestions for the Chinese government to revise their environmental inspection system.
Recent and Future Advances in Water Electrolysis for Green Hydrogen Generation: Critical Analysis and Perspectives
Authors: Franco Alessandro , Giovannini Caterina
Published: December 2023

This paper delves into the pivotal role of water electrolysis (WE) in green hydrogen production, a process utilizing renewable energy sources through electrolysis. The term “green hydrogen” signifies its distinction from conventional “grey” or “brown” hydrogen produced from fossil fuels, emphasizing the importance of decarbonization in the hydrogen value chain. WE becomes a linchpin, balancing surplus green energy, stabilizing the grid, and addressing challenges in hard-to-abate sectors like long-haul transport and heavy industries. This paper navigates through electrolysis variants, technological challenges, and the crucial association between electrolytic hydrogen production and renewable energy sources (RESs). Energy consumption aspects are scrutinized, highlighting the need for optimization strategies to enhance efficiency. This paper systematically addresses electrolysis fundamentals, technologies, scaling issues, and the nexus with energy sources. It emphasizes the transformative potential of electrolytic hydrogen in the broader energy landscape, underscoring its role in shaping a sustainable future. Through a systematic analysis, this study bridges the gap between detailed technological insights and the larger energy system context, offering a holistic perspective. This paper concludes by summarizing key findings, showcasing the prospects, challenges, and opportunities associated with hydrogen production via water electrolysis for the energy transition.
The Efficiency of Resource Utilization in EU-28 Countries through Eco-Innovation and Digital Inclusion
Authors: Constantin Alexandra-Maria , Voica Orlando-Marian , Silvestru Cătălin-Ionuț , Icociu Vasilica-Cristina , Silvestru Ramona-Camelia , Grecu Andreea
Published: December 2023

Innovation has been a historical driver for progress. The need for more effective resource utilization has ignited the presence of many innovations in the economic environment. Among others, digitalization and internet connectivity are important pillars of development. Our paper aims to provide a few insights related to the question “How can we increase the efficiency of resource utilization in EU-28 countries through Eco-Innovation and Digital Inclusion?” This paper examines the issue of innovation related to the use of natural resources (Eco-innovation) as a determining factor in resource consumption in societies with different levels of digital inclusion. Our analysis is based on clustering of EU-28 Member States using three variables: the degree of digital inclusion, the Eco-Innovation Index, and the degree of resource use. We expect digital inclusion to mediate the relationship between eco-innovation and resource utilization. Clustering might reveal how the Eco-Innovation Index, Digital Inclusion Level, and Resource Productivity Index differ among EU-28 Member States and provide relevant information for prioritization of resource allocation at the EU level. Our approach of clustering based on the three variables considered reveals that countries with a better economy present better performance from the point of view of Digital Inclusion in the context of Eco-Innovation and the use of resources.
Multi-Purpose Accessibility of Mountain Area Forests for the Purpose of Forest Management and Protection of the State Border
Authors: Krivić-Tomić Doroteja , Papa Ivica , Kožić Mijo
Published: December 2023

The planning and implementation of surveillance of state territory in forested border areas, especially mountainous areas, is considered to be highly complex. This is illustrated by the example of the difficulties the European Union faced in controlling the 2015 European migration crisis. Thereby, Croatia has the difficult task of protecting the borders of the Union because a particular problem on the Western Balkan Route is the so-called bottleneck to Slovenia in the area of the Municipality of Donji Lapac, which consists of the green border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Consequently, by using the example of planning multi-purpose forest roads, the aim of this paper is to propose the inclusion of the road network of border management units of mountain areas in the control system of the state’s green border, which, in this paper, includes its surveillance and protection by land for the purpose of national security. The research was conducted on the example of the Visočica–Lisac border management unit in the Municipality of Donji Lapac. The results of the research indicate a possible solution to the control of the border management unit by establishing a two-level surveillance system. The higher level consists of strategically defined surveillance points and corresponding multi-purpose forest roads designed on a tactical level. At this level, the priority is protection or, more precisely, defense of the state border. The lower level consists of tactically determined surveillance points with corresponding multi-purpose forest roads designed on the operational level. In addition to protecting the state border, this level would also have the task of protecting the forest, that is, monitoring the area of the management unit.
On the Usage of Artificial Neural Networks for the Determination of Optimal Wind Farms Allocation
Authors: Xenitidis Kleanthis , Ioannou Konstantinos , Tsantopoulos Georgios , Myronidis Dimitrios
Published: December 2023

Worldwide energy demand is constantly increasing. This fact, in combination with the ever growing need to reduce the energy production footprint on the environment, has led to the adoption of cleaner and more sustainable forms of energy production. Renewable Energy Sources (RES) are constantly developing in an effort to increase their conversion efficiency and improve their life cycle. However, not all types of RES are accepted by the general public. Wind Turbines (WTs) are considered by many researchers as the least acceptable type of RES. This is mostly because of how their installation alters the surrounding landscape, produces noise and puts birds in danger when they happen to fly over the installation area. This paper aims to apply a methodology which, by using Rational Basis Function Neural Networks (RBFNN), is capable of investigating the criteria used for the installation locations of WTs in a transparent way. The results from the Neural Network (NN) will be combined with protected areas and the Land Fragmentation Index (LFI), in order to determine possible new installation locations with increased social acceptance and, at the same time, increased energy production. A case study of the proposed methodology has been implemented for the entire Greek territory, which is considered one of the most suitable areas for the installation of wind farms due to its particular geomorphology.
Performance Analysis and Multi-Objective Optimization of a Cooling-Power-Desalination Combined Cycle for Shipboard Diesel Exhaust Heat Recovery
Authors: Gao Qizhi , Zhao Senyao , Zhang Zhixiang , Zhang Ji , Zhao Yuan , Sun Yongchao , Li Dezhi , Yuan Han
Published: December 2023

This study presents a novel cooling-power-desalination combined cycle for recovering shipboard diesel exhaust heat, integrating a freezing desalination sub-cycle to regulate the ship’s cooling-load fluctuations. The combined cycle employs ammonia–water as the working fluid and efficiently utilizes excess cooling capacity to pretreat reverse osmosis desalination. By adjusting the mass flow rate of the working fluid in both the air conditioning refrigeration cycle and the freezing desalination sub-cycle, the combined cycle can dynamically meet the cooling-load demand under different working conditions and navigation areas. To analyze the cycle’s performance, a mathematical model is established for energy and exergy analysis, and key parameters including net output work, comprehensive efficiency, and heat exchanger area are optimized using the MOPSO algorithm. The results indicate that the system achieves optimal performance when the generator temperature reaches 249.95 °C, the sea water temperature is 22.29 °C, and 42% ammonia–water is used as the working fluid. Additionally, an economic analysis of frozen seawater desalination as RO seawater desalination pretreatment reveals a substantial cost reduction of 22.69%, showcasing the advantageous features of this proposed cycle. The research in this paper is helpful for waste energy recovery and sustainable development.
The Implementation Mechanism and Effectiveness of a National Plan of a Digital Competence Training Program for Chinese Primary and Secondary School Teachers
Authors: Shi Qian , Lan Min , Wan Xiulan
Published: December 2023

This study investigated the implementation and effectiveness of a national plan for a digital competence training program (DCTP) aimed at Chinese teachers. A relational content analysis was performed using policy documents, observations, and assessments to identify four DCTP implementation stages. Local educational departments and training institutes were afforded a moderate degree of autonomy to organize training activities. A t-test indicated disparities in the effectiveness of training between privately funded and publicly funded institutes, with the latter demonstrating stronger assessment outcomes in certain subject areas. The study examined the advantages and disadvantages of this implementation process, proposing collaborative efforts between privately funded and publicly funded training institutions.
Study on Spatial Characteristics, Health Assessment, and Influencing Factors of Tropospheric Ozone Pollution in Qin–Jin Region, 2013–2022
Authors: Lei Shengtong , Ju Tianzhen , Li Bingnan , Wang Jinyang , Geng Tunyang , Huang Ruirui
Published: December 2023

Ozone is a pollutant that is harmful to human health and the troposphere. As a coal base in China, the study of ozone in the Qin–Jin region provides a scientific basis for pollution control and early warning and is of great practical significance. This paper analyzes the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of tropospheric ozone in the Qin–Jin region from 2013 to 2022. It predicts the tropospheric ozone seasons in 2023 using a combination of ozone monitoring instruments (OMIs), ground stations, and machine learning. It also estimates the loss of health and economic benefits caused by ozone to humans, discusses the multiple factors affecting ozone changes, and identifies ozone-sensitive pollution control areas. The results showed that ozone in the Qin–Jin region spatially tends to increase from northwest to southeast, the Slope showed that ozone in the study area has a slightly increasing trend (0~0.079), the ozone concentration values are much larger than those in other months during the period of April–September, and there is no weekend effect. The predicted mean ozone values for 2023 are 36.57 DU in spring, 50.88 DU in summer, 34.29 DU in fall, and 30.10 DU in winter. The average values of all-cause mortality and economic losses are estimated to be 4591 and 4214 persons and 43.30 and 51.30 billion yuan in 2019 and 2021 in Shanxi Province, and 2498 and 1535 persons and 23.50 and 18.70 billion yuan in 2019 and 2021 in Shaanxi Province, respectively. Natural factors are positively correlated with ozone in the following order, temperature (TEM) > precipitable water (TPW) > vegetation cover (NDVI) > relative humidity (RH), uplift index (LI) is negatively correlated with ozone, and barometric pressure (PS) is mainly uncorrelated. During the period of high ozone pollution in the Qin–Jin region (April–September), emissions of VOCs accelerated ozone production, and emissions of NOx suppressed ozone production in most areas. The high-value pollution period in the Qin–Jin area is mainly a VOC control area, and the synergistic control of NOx and VOCs is secondary.
The Impact of China’s Overseas Economic and Trade Cooperation Zones on Sustainable Trade of Host Countries
Authors: Zhang Yu , Fu Zeyu , Xu Lei , Lu Zhenzhen
Published: December 2023

Under the concept of “government-guided, enterprise-led, and market-oriented” operation, the Chinese Overseas Economic and Trade Cooperation Zones (COCZs) have developed a new type of international production pattern, which has become an effective way for developing countries to integrate into the global production network sustainably. Based on the COCZ data collected manually and country-level panel data from 1997 to 2019, this study innovatively analyzes the sustainable trade effect of COCZs with the difference-in-differences method. The research finds that the establishment of COCZs significantly boosts the import and export of the host country in a sustainable manner. Further analysis finds that COCZs can promote the sustainable trade growth of the host country in three aspects: economic, societal, and environmental. This sustainable trade effect is closely related to the institutional improvement and infrastructure construction generated by COCZs. By providing a comprehensive and rigorous analysis of the impact of COCZs on the host country’s trade performance, the paper effectively responds to the criticisms on China’s “going out” strategy, which is often based on biased assumptions and a lack of empirical evidence. It also provides policy implications for both China and the host countries to enhance the cooperation and mutual benefits of COCZs.
Multi-Objective Optimal Power Flow Calculation Considering Carbon Emission Intensity
Authors: Wang Gangfei , Ma Hengrui , Wang Bo , Alharbi Abdullah M. , Wang Hongxia , Ma Fuqi
Published: December 2023

In keeping with China’s dual carbon goals, optimal low-carbon power system dispatch has become a necessary component of the greening of the power system. However, typically, research considers only the economics of such efforts. Based on our power flow analysis of the power grid and the correlation properties of carbon emission flow, an optimal power flow calculation model targeting the total carbon emission rate of the power system’s power generation cost, active network loss, and load and network loss was constructed. Next, the NSGA-III algorithm was used to solve the model, and the decision was to coordinate and optimize the output schemes of various types of power plants, such as wind, water, and thermal. The modified IEEE39 node simulation system was built with Matlab software (MATLAB R2020b). The results of the calculation showed that, compared to the traditional method of determining the optimal power flow, the proposed method reduced the system carbon emissions by 20% while the power generation cost increased by less than 2%, which proves the effectiveness and practicability of the proposed method.
Assessing the Sustainability of Palm Oil by Expert Interviews—An Application of the Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Meixner Oliver , Hackl Sonja , Haas Rainer
Published: December 2023

Palm oil plays a crucial role in the food industry, industrial applications, and bioenergy, accounting for over one-third of global vegetable oil production. The production area has quadrupled, and the volume is about seven times higher today than in the early 1990s. This significant increase is attributed to several factors, including the oil palm’s notably higher yield per hectare compared to other oilseeds, cost-effectiveness, versatility, and excellent manufacturing characteristics. Despite its economic benefits, industrial palm oil production raises substantial ecological and social concerns, such as deforestation, habitat loss, and labor issues. This study presents a comprehensive sustainability assessment that concurrently considers economic, environmental, and social aspects. Through qualitative expert interviews, various stakeholders in the supply chain evaluated the sustainability criteria of palm oil production and application using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), a decision support tool helping to analyze, structure, and solve complex decision problems. The results reveal that, on average, the experts consider environmental criteria to be of the highest importance, followed by social sustainability, while economic criteria are of lower significance. However, the approximations regarding the weighting of the criteria showed considerable variations among experts. The AHP priority index for RSPO-certified palm oil is nearly as high as the reference product “EU canola oil”; this observation is consistent with all expert judgments. This study provides an adequate approach to assessing the sustainability of agricultural supply chains, offering practical recommendations for the food industry and policymakers.
Using Mixed Methods to Identify Evaluation Indicators for Green Railway Transportation Operations in China
Authors: Chen Weiya , Yu Yongzhuo , Fang Xiaoping , Yuan Ziyue , Tong Shiying
Published: December 2023

The transition of China’s railways from aggressive expansion to sustainable development has sparked widespread discussions on green railways. Previous studies have primarily focused on the fundamental aspects of green rail design and construction. However, the green operation phase, one of the most critical stages in the entire lifecycle of railways, has been overlooked. This study used a mixed-method approach, combining systematic review and qualitative analysis, to identify significant environmental, economic, and social evaluation indicators for green railway transportation operations. Through an examination of 123 articles and interviews with four professors in academia, two Planning and Design Institute technicians, one government staff, and one railway practitioner, this study identified 17 key indicators associated with green operations in railways. The results showed that previous studies in the environmental aspect primarily focused on noise pollution, water pollution, solid waste, ecological conservation, and the use of construction materials. In the social part, the main concern is social equality. Green railway operations have the potential to impact social equity through the movement of people and goods, which makes accessibility a preferable evaluation measure. Regarding economic indicators, the influencing factors are more complex (such as regional GDP per capita), making it difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of green railway operations directly. We suggest the inclusion of more economic-related indicators that directly correlate with green operations in railways.
Impact of Surface Science in Current Science and Technology: Some Basic Considerations
Authors: Granozzi Gaetano
Published: December 2023

More than half a century has passed since the establishment of surface science as a specific discipline [...]
Accurate Restoration of the Center of Rotation of the Hip Joint Based on Preoperative Planning Is Not Associated with Improved Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Morgan Samuel , Amzallag Nissan , Shaked Or , Snir Nimrod , Gold Aviram , Ashkenazi Itay , Factor Shai , Warschawski Yaniv
Published: December 2023

One of the main objectives of total hip arthroplasty (THA) is to recreate the center of rotation (COR). Accurate reconstruction of the COR is suggested to be within 5 mm of its anatomical location. The goal of our study was to assess whether accurate reconstruction of the COR, based on preoperative planning, is associated with improved clinical outcomes. The study population consisted of patients who underwent THA at our institution between August 2018 and May 2020. All patients underwent preoperative digital templating. The position of the predicted COR was compared to its actual postoperative position. Patients were subsequently stratified into two subgroups based on the difference between the distance of the predicted COR and the reconstructed COR, over or under 5 mm. A 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) and visual analogue scale (VAS) were taken for each patient. 90 patients were included in this study. 60 patients (66%) had their COR reconstructed within 5 mm of preoperative planning, whereas for 30 patients (33%), reconstruction was outside of 5 mm of preoperative planning. Between the two cohorts, no significant difference existed in the physical component summary (PCS) (p = 0.33), the mental component summary (MCS = 0.16), or the visual analogue scale (VAS) (p = 0.12). The accurate restoration of COR based on preoperative planning is not associated with improved clinical outcomes. During postoperative evaluation, surgeons should feel confident if the COR is slightly greater than 5 mm of preoperative limitations.
A Comparison between Open and Minimally Invasive Right Hemicolectomies in Patients with Locally Advanced UICC Stage III Colon Cancer: A Protocol for a Systematic Review and an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis
Authors: Reitz Jule , Lindner Simon , Benz Stefan , Schwarzer Guido , Hetjens Svetlana , Grilli Maurizio , Reissfelder Christoph , Seyfried Steffen , Herrle Florian
Published: December 2023

Despite the development of new technologies and multimodal therapies, improving the prognosis of patients with UICC stage III right colon adenocarcinoma remains challenging. Several randomized controlled trials have shown the oncological non-inferiority of minimally invasive surgery compared to open surgery for colon cancer patients. However, for UICC stage III patients, carrying the highest risk for local recurrence and the worst survival, the evidence remains inconclusive. The aim of this systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis is to improve the scarce evidence regarding minimally invasive surgery for this subgroup of patients. Data from adult patients with pathologically UICC stage III right adenocarcinoma of the colon will be included. The intervention to be assessed is the minimally invasive right hemicolectomy in comparison with the open procedure. The primary outcome will be the 5-year overall survival. Secondary outcomes will include further long-term outcomes, such as disease-free survival, short term, and histological outcomes. Only randomized controlled trials and quasi-randomized controlled clinical trials will be included. The literature search will be conducted in the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Web of Science. The review will be performed using the Cochrane methodology including GRADE tools. The findings of this meta-analysis will be important for choosing optimal treatment pathways and tailoring of surgical therapy in patients with locally advanced UICC stage III right colon cancer.
Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) Detection Via Carbon Dots: A Review
Authors: Sendão Ricardo M. S. , Esteves da Silva Joaquim C. G. , Pinto da Silva Luís
Published: December 2023

PFASs are a class of highly persistent chemicals that are slowly infiltrating soils and waterways. Thus, there is a great need for fast, sensitive, and reliable techniques to detect PFASs. Conventional methods, such as LC-MS/SPE, allow high sensitivities. However, such methods can be complex and expensive. Considering this, it is not surprising that the scientific community has turned their attention to the search for alternatives. New types of PFAS sensors have been reported over the years, being generally part of three classes: optical, electrochemical, or hybrid sensors. Carbon dots (CDs) are new alternative fluorescent sensors that can present great affinity towards PFASs, while allowing for a fast response and promising sensitivity and selectivity. Furthermore, CDs have more attractive properties than traditional fluorophores and even metal-based nanomaterials that make them better candidates for sensing applications. Thus, CDs display great potential for permitting a fast and accurate quantification of PFASs. This review aims to serve as a basis for the future development and optimization of CD-based fluorescent sensors for PFASs.
Concurrent Value-Driven Decision-Making Process for the Aircraft, Supply Chain and Manufacturing Systems Design
Authors: Donelli Giuseppa , Boggero Luca , Nagel Björn
Published: December 2023

The integration of product design and supply-chain management can lead to an increase in the profitability and efficiency of companies. However, considering manufacturing, supply chain, and aircraft criteria in the early design phase increases the size of the solutions’ trade space and, thus, the complexity of performing the decision-making process. This paper demonstrates how to leverage value-model theory to simplify the decision-making process when multiple criteria related to multiple systems are considered at the same time. The proposed concurrent approach is formalized from a systems-engineering perspective, considering the interactions between the lifecycle stages of the System of Interest, i.e., the aircraft, and Enabling Systems like the supply chain and manufacturing. A value-based interactive dashboard, called VALORISE, is developed to automatize the process, support decision-makers in modeling their expectations, analyze real-time strategic scenarios, and easily explore the value-driven trade space for best-solution identification. An aeronautical application case highlights the advantages of leveraging the proposed concurrent approach to overcome the limits of traditional approaches, in which decisions about supply chain and manufacturing are addressed once the aircraft configuration is decided.
The Holby–Morgan Model of Platinum Catalyst Degradation in PEM Fuel Cells: Range of Feasible Parameters Achieved Using Voltage Cycling
Authors: Kovtunenko Victor A.
Published: December 2023

Loss of electrochemical surface area in proton-exchange membrane is of large practical importance, since membrane degradation largely affects the durability and life of fuel cells. In this paper, the electrokinetic model developed by Holby and Morgan is considered. The paper describes degradation mechanisms in membrane catalyst presented by platinum dissolution, platinum diffusion, and platinum oxide formation. A one-dimensional model is governed by nonlinear reaction–diffusion equations given in a cathodic catalyst layer using Butler–Volmer relationships for reaction rates. The governing system is endowed with initial conditions, mixed no-flux boundary condition at the interface with gas diffusion layer, and a perfectly absorbing condition at the membrane boundary. In cyclic voltammetry tests, a non-symmetric square waveform is applied for the electric potential difference between 0.6 and 0.9 V held for 10 and 30 s, respectively, according to the protocol of European Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking. Aimed at mitigation strategies, the impact of cycling operating conditions and model parameters on the loss rate of active area is investigated. The global behavior with respect to variation of parameters is performed using the method of sensitivity analysis. Finding feasible and unfeasible values helps to determine the range of test parameters employed in the model. Comprehensive results of numerical simulation tests are presented and discussed.
Skin-Friction and Forced Convection from Rough and Smooth Plates
Authors: Jaffer Aubrey
Published: December 2023

Since the 1930s, theories of skin-friction drag from plates with rough surfaces have been based by analogy to turbulent flow in pipes with rough interiors. Failure of this analogy at small fluid velocities has frustrated attempts to create a comprehensive theory. Utilizing the concept of a self-similar roughness that disrupts the boundary layer at all scales, this investigation derives formulas for a rough or smooth plate’s skin-friction coefficient and forced convection heat transfer given its characteristic length, root-mean-squared (RMS) height-of-roughness, isotropic spatial period, Reynolds number, and the fluid’s Prandtl number. This novel theory was tested with 456 heat transfer and friction measurements in 32 data-sets from one book, six peer-reviewed studies, and the present apparatus. Compared with the present theory, the RMS relative error (RMSRE) values of the 32 data-sets span 0.75% through 8.2%, with only four data-sets exceeding 6%. Prior work formulas have smaller RMSRE on only four of the data-sets.
Exploring CNS Involvement in Pain Insensitivity in Hereditary Sensory and Autonomic Neuropathy Type 4: Insights from Tc−99m ECD SPECT Imaging
Authors: Chiang Cheng-Chun , Wu Yu-Che , Lan Chiao-Hsin , Wang Kuan-Chieh , Tang Hsuan-Ching , Chang Shin-Tsu
Published: December 2023

Hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type 4 (HSAN4), also known as congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis (CIPA), is a rare genetic disorder caused by NTRK1 gene mutations, affecting nerve growth factor signaling. This study investigates the central nervous system’s (CNS) involvement and its relation to pain insensitivity in HSAN4. We present a 15-year-old girl with HSAN4, displaying clinical signs suggestive of CNS impact, including spasticity and a positive Babinski’s sign. Using Technetium-99m ethyl cysteinate dimer single-photon emission computed tomography (Tc−99m ECD SPECT) imaging, we discovered perfusion deficits in key brain regions, notably the cerebellum, thalamus, and postcentral gyrus. These regions process pain signals, providing insights into HSAN4’s pain insensitivity. This study represents the first visualization of CNS perfusion abnormality in an HSAN4 patient. It highlights the intricate relationship between the peripheral and central nervous systems in HSAN4. The complexity of HSAN4 diagnosis, involving potential unidentified genes, underscores the need for continued research to refine diagnostic approaches and develop comprehensive treatments.
Toward Regenerative Hospitality Business Models: The Case of “Hortel”
Authors: Caruso Luca
Published: December 2023

Due to the ecologically unfavorable state of the living world, any formal commitment made by the accommodation sector for the practical implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies needs to be followed up by a credible plan, courageous action, and an attentive monitoring and reporting phase. Only in this way can high-end hotels in cities emerge as regenerative sustainability (RS) hubs and better amalgamate whole life-cycle thinking and economic performance in their day-to-day activities. This paper provides a detailed literature review of the ongoing transformation of the hospitality sector toward the RS paradigm, which is a concept that underpins Hortel’s business model. Hortel is then contextualized as the first example of an eco-innovative turnkey business-to-business (B2B) service for a high-end hotel with an annexed restaurant. Hortel implemented nature-based solutions adapted to the hospitality sector in order to contribute to local urban biodiversity and bring hotel clients closer to nature through biophilic tactics. Services like Hortel can support, with today’s resources and competences, hotels that are putting at the core of their business model planetary health and societal well-being. It also includes the description of the prototype built at Four Points by Sheraton Catania, the monitoring phase that lasted between 2016 and 2017, and other strategic business-related initiatives. This paper also contributes to the advancement of the literature discussing regenerative business models, which to date has been a largely unexplored aspect of hospitality.
Characteristics of Soil Arsenic Contamination and the Potential of Pioneer Plants for Arsenic Remediation in Gold Mine Tailings
Authors: Han Lei , Zhai Yunmeng , Chen Rui , Fan Yamin , Liu Zhao , Zhao Yonghua , Li Risheng , Xia Longfei
Published: December 2023

Arsenic (As) contamination of gold mine tailings poses major threats to the natural environment and human health, necessitating adequate management measures. To investigate the soil As contamination level and the potential of pioneer plants for As remediation, the soil and plants of an abandoned gold mine tailings in the Qinling Mountains were analyzed. The level of As contamination was assessed using the single-factor pollution index and potential ecological risk index, and its bioeffectiveness was analyzed. The enrichment capability of plants was investigated using the bioaccumulation factor and translocation factor. Redundancy analysis and partial least squares regression were employed to investigate factors affecting the distribution of As in soil and plants. The results show that As in soil mainly existed in the difficult-available state, with serious contamination and extremely high ecological risk. Lythrum salicaria L. and Equisetum ramosissimum Desf. are the preferred plants for remediation of As contamination through screening pioneer plants. Soil total nitrogen (STN) and available phosphorus (SAP) are the main factors influencing the characteristics of As distribution in the soil. Soil available potassium (SAK), water content (SWC), and SAP promote the accumulation of As by plants. This study provides plant materials and new ideas for mine ecological remediation.
Evaluating the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Schistosomiasis Amongst School-Aged Children in Low- and Middle-Income Communities: Ehlanzeni District Municipality, South Africa, 2015–2021
Authors: Njikho Sunnieboy Lot , Quan Vanessa Cecilia , Mbonane Thokozani Patrick , Van Wyk Renay Helouise
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and identify risk factors of schistosomiasis among school-aged children in low- and middle-income communities. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted to review patient records of school-age children. Data on gender, age, sub-district, area residing in, patient status, history of bilharzia, presence of blood in the urine, and schistosomiasis diagnoses were collected. The data were analyzed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Logistic regression was employed to determine the factors associated with schistosomiasis. The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis in the study population was 75%, with higher prevalence observed among male children (89%), children aged between 10 and 14 years (59%), urban areas (51%), and rural-dominated districts, particularly Bushbuckridge (42%) and City of Mbombela (51%). Age, especially 10–14 years old (p ˂ 0.01; 95%CI: 1.98–2.29), a history of bilharzia (p = 0.01; 95%CI: 1.15–1.96), and the presence of blood in urine (p ˂ 0.01; 95%CI: 2.02–2.40) were significantly associated with schistosomiasis while being a female child was found to be a protective factor (AOR: 0.35; CI 0.35–0.41). This study underscores the importance of implementing robust screening procedures and the necessity for health education to mitigate the high prevalence of schistosomiasis and prevent its further spread.