bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Climate of Innovation: AI’s Growing Influence in Weather Prediction Patents and Its Future Prospects
Authors: Cheon Minjong , Mun Changbae
Published: December 2023

As the severity of climate change intensifies, understanding and predicting weather patterns have become paramount. Major firms worldwide have recognized this urgency, focusing their innovative efforts on weather prediction. In line with this trend, this research delves into the intricate patterns of patent data within the realm of weather prediction from 2010 to 2023. The study unveils a standard timeline for patent grants in this domain, particularly noting a distinctive peak in grant durations between 1500 and 2000 days. The global landscape of weather prediction innovation is highlighted, pinpointing the United States, China, and Japan as pivotal contributors. A salient finding is the ascendant influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in this sector, underscored by the prevalence of AI-centric keywords such as “machine learning” and “neural network”. This trend exemplifies the ongoing paradigm shift toward data-driven methodologies in weather forecasting. A notable correlation was identified between patent trends and academic trends on platforms such as arXiv, especially concerning keywords such as “machine learning” and “deep learning”. Moreover, our findings indicate that the transformer network, given its rising prominence in deep learning realms, is predicted to be a future keyword trend in weather prediction patents. However, despite its insights, the study also grapples with limitations in its predictive modeling component, which aims at forecasting patent grant durations. Overall, this research offers a comprehensive understanding of the patent dynamics in weather prediction, illuminating the trajectory of technological advancements and the burgeoning role of AI. It holds implications for academia, industry, and policymaking in navigating the future of weather prediction technologies.
A Study on the Differences in the Synergistic Development Level of Digitalization and Greenization in the Eastern and Central Regions of China
Authors: Qin Miaomiao , Huang Zongyuan
Published: December 2023

Currently, countries around the world are facing the dual pressures and challenges of environmental issues and economic growth, and the synergistic development of digitalization and greenization is an important key to solving this challenge. The synergistic development of digitalization and greenization is reflected in multiple aspects such as the economy, environment, and society, which not only promotes sustainable development but also plays an important role and significance in enhancing economic efficiency, improving ecological environment quality, and meeting people’s needs for a better life. This paper constructs a comprehensive evaluation index system for the development level of digitalization and greenization, conducts an in-depth analysis of digitalization, greenization, and their synergistic development in Eastern and Central China, and provides useful enlightenment for promoting the synergistic development of digitalization and greenization.
Analysis Projection of the Fulfillment of Priority Facilities and Infrastructures for Vocational High School/Sekolah Menengah Kejuruan (SMK) Using System Dynamic to Increase School Participation Rates in Central Kalimantan Province, Indonesia
Authors: Kaenong Hamiduddin Arief , Alexandri Mohammad Benny , Sugandi Yogi Suprayogi
Published: December 2023

The fulfillment of facilities and infrastructures is the obligation of the provincial government, including the provincial government of Central Kalimantan. This study aims to find out whether the provincial government of Central Kalimantan can meet SMK priority facilities and infrastructures and to know the year of achievement. The research uses a quantitative method in the form of a dynamic system with the help of the vensim PLE64 application version 9.2.0.0 using profile data for each SMK and the Budget Execution List/Daftar Pelaksanaan Anggaran (DPA) of the education office from 2017 to 2022. The results show that if the budget for priority facilities and infrastructures is maintained, then in 2028, priority facilities and infrastructures will equal the ideal number. Furthermore, if the Central Kalimantan provincial government runs a scenario of increasing the growth of the SMK facility and infrastructure budget, uses the budget allocation for SMK facilities and infrastructures for only priority facilities and infrastructures, or uses the budget allocation for SMK facilities and infrastructures for SMKs first, then the fulfillment of facilities and infrastructures will be achieved 2–3 years earlier.
Assessing Land Resource Carrying Capacity in China’s Main Grain-Producing Areas: Spatial–Temporal Evolution, Coupling Coordination, and Obstacle Factors
Authors: Jiang Bing , Tang Wenjie , Li Meijia , Yang Guangchao , Deng Xiaoshang , Cui Lihang
Published: December 2023

The land resources in the main grain-producing areas (MGPAs) provide a solid foundation for grain production, and promotion of the sustainable utilization of land resources in these areas is crucial for ensuring national food security. To comprehensively assess the land resource carrying capacity (LRCC) in China’s MGPAs, we utilized the driver-pressure-state-impact-response (DPSIR) framework and applied the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and entropy weight (EW) method to analyze the spatial–temporal evolution of LRCC in China’s MGPAs from 2000 to 2020. By establishing a coupling coordination model, we explored the coupling coordination relationships among LRCC subsystems and identified key factors hindering the balanced development of LRCC using an obstacle degree model. The research results indicate that the LRCC in China’s MGPAs generally shows an increasing trend with a continuously growing rate, with the LRCC in the southern regions surpassing that in the northern regions. The overall coupling coordination of LRCC demonstrates an increasing trend, although the growth rate is decreasing. The coupling coordination level of LRCC in the southern regions is generally higher than that in the northern regions, and the gap in coordination levels between various regions is narrowing. The state and pressure subsystems significantly influence the balanced development of LRCC. Indicators such as arable land area per capita, grain production yield per unit area of arable land, grain production yield per capita, forest land area per capita, and grassland area per capita play vital roles in the development of LRCC. Based on these findings, we have put forward targeted recommendations.
Exploring Students’ Acceptance of Construction Information Technology: The Development of a Comprehensive Technology Acceptance Model for the Design of an Education Program at a Japanese University
Authors: Watanabe Reeko , Watanabe Tsunemi , Skitmore Martin
Published: December 2023

Construction information technology (CIT), particularly building information modeling, is globally embraced in industry but relatively new to Japanese universities because of its unique interdisciplinary nature. This presents challenges for students and instructors. Promoting the widespread adoption of CIT in Japan necessitates the development of undergraduates’ proficiency in hard and soft engineering. The problem is that Japanese universities lack research and curricula concerning CIT education—a deficiency that raises the need to evaluate students’ perceptions and acceptance of such education. This study is an initial endeavor to fulfill this need, with a view to providing curriculum recommendations and insights into the issue of interest via the analysis of students’ awareness by developing a comprehensive technology acceptance model (TAM). The findings revealed that students’ exposure to and knowledge of CIT during their university education significantly influence their perception of its utility, thereby affecting their acceptance of CIT courses. Their perception of the usefulness of CIT in future employment is a more influential factor in their willingness or readiness to accept and participate in CIT courses than its perceived importance for industry development. To facilitate the advancement of the construction sector, stakeholders should develop an industry–university collaboration-based education program that bridges the gap between academic and industry needs, creates job opportunities for students, and nurtures talent.
Combining SEM, fsQCA and BNs to Explore E-Bike Riders’ Helmet Wearing Intentions under the Impact of Mandatory Policies: An Empirical Study in Zhenjiang
Authors: Wang Bichen , Jing Peng , Jiang Chengxi
Published: December 2023

China has become the largest country for e-bikes in the past decade, leading to a surge in road-related accidents. Chinese provinces and cities have successfully formulated local regulations, which set fines for not wearing helmets levying on e-bike riders. Without considering psychological resistance which is universal under the premise of compulsory legislation, the legislation and enforcement activities cannot continuously promote electric bikers’ helmet use. This study aims to investigate the predictors that influence e-bike riders’ intention to wear helmets by designing a research methodology that incorporates the theory of planned behavior (TPB), the protection motivation theory (PMT), and the psychological reactance theory (PRT). A multi-method analytical approach, including structural equation modeling (SEM), fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), and a Bayesian Network (BN) with a sample dataset of 846 respondents. SEM and fsQCA explored the intentions to wear helmets from linear and nonlinear perspectives. BN verifies the degree of influence between different configurations resulting from fsQCA, to predict which mental configurations could get the most significant impact on helmet use. A total of 11 configurations lead to high helmet-wearing intention, and 4 lead to low helmet-wearing intention. Policymakers could design safety policies on our research, such as driving licenses and special lectures for e-bike riders.
Research and Application of Early Identification of Geological Hazards Technology in Railway Disaster Prevention and Control: A Case Study of Southeastern Gansu, China
Authors: He Peng , Guo Zhaocheng , Chen Hong , Shi Pengqing , Zhou Xiaolong , Wang Genhou
Published: December 2023

Geological hazards significantly threaten the safety of China’s railway network. As the railway system continues to expand, particularly with the effects of accelerated climate change, approximately 70% of the newly encountered geohazards occur outside of known areas. This study proposes a novel approach that can be applied to railway systems to identify potential geohazards, analyze risk areas, and assess section vulnerability. The methodology uses integrated remote sensing technology to effectively enhance potential railway hazard identification timeliness. It combines kernel density, hotspot, and inverse distance-weighted analysis methods to enhance applicability and accuracy in the risk assessment of railway networks. Using a case study in southeastern Gansu as an example, we identified 3976 potential hazards in the study area, analyzed five areas with high concentrations of hazards, and 11 districts and counties prone to disasters that could threaten the railway network. We accurately located 16 sections and 20 significant landslide hazards on eight railway lines that pose operational risks. The effectiveness of the methodology proposed in this paper has been confirmed through field investigations of significant landslide hazards. This study can provide a scientific basis for the sustainability of the railway network and disaster risk management.
Large-Scale Biochar Incorporation Does Not Necessarily Promote the Carbon Sink of Estuarine Wetland Soil
Authors: Xie Mengdi , Lu Xiaojuan , Wang Han , Fu Xiaohua , Wang Lei
Published: December 2023

Biochar incorporation is a widespread approach for soil improvement and soil carbon sequestration. However, there have only been a few studies on the effects of large-scale biochar incorporation on the estuarine wetland soil. To assess the different rates and incorporation times of biochar effects on the soil carbon cycle, the effects and mechanisms of biochar actions on soil respiration and plant growth were clarified via an outdoor control experiment that analyzed the soil microbial activity and community structure of estuarine wetland soil. The results unconventionally showed that a higher rate (238.82 g·kg−1) of biochar incorporation achieved stimulated soil respiration compared to lower incorporation rates (9.14 g·kg−1, 23.89 g·kg−1, 47.79 g·kg−1 and 143.36 g·kg−1) and was 38.9%, −21.8%, and 6.23% higher than the soil respiration of the control on three incorporation months. The soil microbial biomass (45.54% in the higher rate of biochar incorporation soil than the control) and the activities of β-glucosidase enzymes (25.4% higher in the higher rate of biochar incorporation soil than the control) explained these differences in soil respiration. This phenomenon was confirmed to be a result of provoking the bacteria of a heterotroph or from a lower humification ability, which enhanced organic carbon degradation in a large amount of biochar incorporation soil. In conclusion, even large-scale biochar incorporation may introduce more stable carbon to the soil, and the carbon sink of estuarine wetland soil may weaken due to the greater carbon output generated in its specific soil microbial species.
Regional Differences in Willingness to Pay for Mitigation of Air Pollution from Coal-Fired Power Plants in South Korea
Authors: Li Dmitriy , Rishi Meenakshi , Bae Jeong Hwan
Published: December 2023

This study examined whether people who reside in different regions of South Korea exhibit different WTP for the mitigation of PM2.5 emissions from coal-fired power plants by restricting their operation during the winter and spring when air pollution becomes severe. The eastern portions of the country are relatively insulated from the harmful effects of PM2.5 emissions due to northwest winds which cause air pollutants generated from coal-fired power plants to be carried out to the East Sea (Sea of Japan). Consequently, our sample group was divided into central, western, eastern, and southern regions, and a contingent valuation method, combined with a double-bounded dichotomous choice, was used to derive people’s WTP for the mitigation of PM2.5 emissions. Our estimation results indicated that respondents who live in eastern regions showed a significantly lower WTP (about KRW 1280/month) than the mean WTP of other regions (above KRW 1337/month). Thus, we suggest that the current Seasonal Management System of PM2.5 emissions should be modified to consider regional differences. Statistical results from this study reinforce our suggestions—almost 78 percent of survey respondents support a revision of the current SMS policy and are in favor of a revised SMS policy—one that exempts eastern regions from a nationwide shutdown of coal-fired generation from December to March. Exempting coal-fired power plants in eastern regions from the Seasonal Management System might result in significant fiscal savings without a corresponding increase in nationwide PM2.5 concentrations.
Developing a Sustainability Measurement for Innovation Performance for the Food Industry
Authors: Leesatapornwongsa Fontip , Thawesaengskulthai Natcha , Vaiyavuth Ronnakorn
Published: December 2023

While the significance of innovation management in sustaining competitiveness for businesses is widely recognized, there is an absence of research in the food industry regarding the measurement of sustainability outcomes resulting from innovation efforts. This research endeavors to construct a comprehensive measurement framework for assessing innovation performance. The primary objective is to examine the measures to evaluate the success the success of product innovation management concerning the sustainability objectives of organizations This study employs Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) on an online survey of 354 Thai food manufacturers to investigate the robust evaluation of innovation performance in the food sector. The key findings reveal that the proposed measurement instrument for innovation management performance has been validated. All sustainability dimensions, including social, economic, and environmental sustainability, have been validated as the appropriate measurement for sustainability as a result of innovation management. The social aspect has the most influence, followed by the economic and environmental aspects. In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights for practitioners aiming to evaluate their innovation management practices by employing the developed measurement scale. By assessing and enhancing their innovation management approaches, organizations can strive for sustainability during dynamic environmental challenges and uncertainties.
The Experiences of Layoff Survivors: Navigating Organizational Justice in Times of Crisis
Authors: Lee Sanghyun , Hong Sounman , Shin Won-Yong , Lee Bong Gyou
Published: December 2023

This study explores the impact of COVID-19 layoffs on surviving employees’ perceptions at Airbnb, a key player in the hospitality industry, during the global pandemic. The crisis brought organizational justice into sharp focus, raising questions about fairness, employee satisfaction, and trust in management. Utilizing an interpretivist approach, we conducted fifteen semi-structured interviews with Airbnb employees who survived the layoffs. Accompanied by a comprehensive literature review, our analysis delved into the challenges these employees encountered. The thematic analysis uncovered insights into organizational justice dimensions—distributive, procedural, interactive, and informational—and their role in shaping fairness perceptions and employee outcomes. Findings reveal that despite challenging circumstances, empathetic and proactive practices like regular check-ins and transparent communication significantly helped maintain fairness perceptions among survivors. This counters the common belief that layoffs invariably diminish justice perceptions. Our study demonstrates that negative impacts can be effectively mitigated through thoughtful organizational practices. In conclusion, the research underscores the importance of organizational justice during crisis-induced layoffs. It advocates for maintaining fairness and transparency to preserve employee trust and satisfaction, which are vital for organizational resilience and sustainability. This study enriches the literature on organizational justice and crisis management, providing valuable insights for businesses in similar situations.
Sustainability Is Social Complexity: Re-Imagining Education toward a Culture of Unpredictability
Authors: Dominici Piero
Published: December 2023

Research on sustainability must take into account both the need to create a sustainable world and the urgency of undertaking a radical rethinking of our approach to planning and foresight that encompasses a full understanding of the ineludible unpredictability of the complex systems we are dealing with, which can only come about through long-term inter/multi/transdisciplinary educational processes. Those calling for a “culture of sustainability” need to become aware of the systemic and relational dimensions that characterize all processes and dynamics of reality and of the ecosystems we are endeavoring to inhabit. What this signifies is that a culture of sustainability is a culture of complexity. Complex systems are exclusively living systems, whose intrinsic unpredictability cannot be managed, predicted, or controlled by technology. The misleading idea that technology is our only pathway to sustainability is part of the “great mistake” we are making today: the belief that the solution to every contemporary problem is an accelerated combination of digital and technical skills, obtainable through a predominantly applicational form of education based on simulation, velocity, and connectivity, which teaches competences and know-how rather than stimulating what is so direly needed today: the capacity for reflective knowledge and critical thinking.
Trends and Future Research Direction of Lean Product Development
Authors: Cukor Kirinić Ivana , Hegedić Miro
Published: December 2023

The field of product development (PD) has an excellent opportunity to achieve the benefits of lean principles. The literature on lean product development (LPD) is growing and is extensive, but it needs to be more systematic. A distinct, comprehensive, and up-to-date review of LPD literature is necessary. Motivated by studying and understanding contemporary themes and the current trends in the LPD research area, this article reviewed 85 previously published papers across three scientific databases from 2011 to 2022. Using literature review methodology, we determined for every article: research motivation or gap filled, key findings and significant contributions, and suggestions for future research. That helps structure the field of research into nine domains according to the gaps the authors wish to fill. The results indicate that over the past decade, the LPD literature has shown trends towards synergy of LPD with green, sustainability, circular economy, industry 4.0, and digitalisation. Finally, the article proposes six future research directions.
A Supply Chain-Oriented Model to Predict Crude Oil Import Prices in South Korea Based on the Hybrid Approach
Authors: Jo Jisung , Kim Umji , Lee Eonkyung , Lee Juhyang , Kim Sewon
Published: December 2023

Although numerous studies have explored key variables for forecasting crude oil prices, the role of supply chain factors has often been overlooked. In the face of global risks such as COVID-19, the Russia–Ukraine war, and the U.S.–China trade dispute, supply chain management (SCM) has evolved beyond an individual company’s concern. This research investigates the impact of a supply chain-oriented variable on the forecasting of crude oil import prices in South Korea. Our findings reveal that models incorporating the Global Supply Chain Pressure Index (GSCPI) outperform those without it, emphasizing the importance of monitoring supply chain-related variables for stabilizing domestic prices for policy makers. Additionally, we propose a novel hybrid factor-based approach that integrates time series and machine learning models to enhance the prediction performance of oil prices. This endeavor is poised to serve as a foundational step toward developing methodologically sound forecasting models for oil prices, offering valuable insights for policymakers.
Congestion Relief Services by Vehicle-to-Grid Enabled Electric Vehicles Considering Battery Degradation
Authors: Narayana Gowda Shashank , Nazaripouya Hamidreza , Gadh Rajit
Published: December 2023

Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) offer substantial potential to enhance the electric grid through bi-directional charging technologies. In essence, BEVs, functioning as portable battery energy storage systems, play a pivotal role in enabling the seamless integration of renewable energy, grid optimization, and ancillary services. This article sets out to explore the value of BEVs equipped with Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) for grid operators, particularly in the context of alleviating congestion. This valuable service, though not accompanied by direct monetary compensation for users, holds significant promise in minimizing congestion and renewable energy curtailment. This study utilizes the Day-Ahead Locational Marginal Price (LMP) data obtained from various locations within California Independent System Operator (CAISO) to ascertain the financial benefits to BEVs located on either side of congestion at different grid nodes, across various months. Similar analysis is performed on some of the largest solar energy plants in California. Mixed-integer linear programs are used to optimize the charging/discharging decisions for the BEV for maximizing revenue from LMP arbitrage and for minimizing the congestion component of LMP. Additionally, we take into account the impact of battery degradation, quantified as a cost per kilowatt-hour ($/kWh), and integrate this factor into our assessment to understand the evolving discharging behavior of BEVs. The article compares the benefits from the BEVs towards congestion minimization for the two different optimization scenarios, discusses seasonality, and addresses the importance of adequately compensating BEV users and incentivizing them to prioritize congestion relief during specific time intervals.
Tourist Preferences for Revitalizing Wellness Products and Reversing Depopulation in Rural Destinations
Authors: Ekonomou George , Kallioras Dimitris , Menegaki Angeliki N. , Alvarez Sergio
Published: December 2023

Wellness tourism is a growing segment that destinations can rely on to increase tourism flows and revive underdeveloped rural areas. This study elicits tourists’ preferences for wellness tourism products and the redevelopment of a wellness destination in a depopulated rural area. The research included 595 participants in Central Greece using on-site, face-to-face surveys. The survey data were analyzed using a two-step process. First, conjoint analysis was applied to determine the combination of wellness tourism product attributes that maximize visitors’ utility. In the second step, we elicited visitors’ willingness to pay (WTP) for improvements in tourism product attributes using the contingent valuation method. The findings indicate that the combination of attributes that maximizes the preference structure of respondents includes time of visit from September to October, duration of visit from 1 to 7 days, wellness tourism as the primary purpose of the visit, and wellness activities that contain both physical activities and training as well as spiritual and emotional enhancement. Using binary logistic regression, the analysis indicates that respondents are willing to pay EUR 47.33 per visit on average further to develop wellness tourism products in the study area. Empirical results confirmed that sustainability issues, quality, and entrepreneurship factors positively impact visitors’ WTP for revitalizing wellness products. In contrast, a longer duration of stay in the area and respondents’ age negatively impact their WTP. These findings suggest that structuring a customer-driven tourism product will enhance the rural destination’s efforts to attract high-yield visitors and advance the rural economy. Furthermore, practical implications reveal that Destination Management Organizations will benefit from research results to foster targeted management plans.
Evaluation of the Thermal Performance of Two Passive Facade System Solutions for Sustainable Development
Authors: Azkorra-Larrinaga Zaloa , Romero-Antón Naiara , Martín-Escudero Koldobika , Lopez-Ruiz Gontzal , Giraldo-Soto Catalina
Published: December 2023

Sustainable development is essential for the future of the planet. Using passive elements, like ventilated facades based on insulation and air chambers, or living walls, which are solutions based on nature, is a powerful strategy for cities to improve their thermal environment, reduce energy consumption, and mitigate the effects of climate change. This approach allows for the quantification of the influence of passive surfaces on energy fluxes compared to bare surfaces. In addition, it delves into understanding how the incorporation of vegetation on building facades alters surface energy fluxes, involving a combination of physical and biochemical processes. This comprehensive investigation seeks to harness the potential of passive and natural solutions to address the pressing challenges of urban sustainability and climate resilience. This research uses a surface energy balance model to analyze the thermal performance of two facades using experimental data from a PASLINK test cell. This study uses the grey box RC model, which links continuous-time ordinary differential equations with discrete measurement data points. This model provides insight into the complex interplay among factors that influence the thermal behavior of building facades, with the goal of comprehensively understanding how ventilated and green facades affect the dynamics of energy flow compared to conventional facades. The initial thermal resistance of the bare facade was 0.75 (°C m2)/W. The introduction of a ventilated facade significantly increased this thermal resistance to 2.47 (°C m2)/W due to the insulating capacity of the air chamber and its insulating layer (1.70 (°C m2)/W). Regarding the modular living wall, it obtained a thermal resistance value of 1.22 (°C m2)/W (this vegetated facade does not have an insulating layer). In this context, the modular living wall proved to be effective in reducing convective energy by 68% compared with the non-green facade. It is crucial to highlight that evapotranspiration was the primary mechanism for energy dissipation in the green facade. The experiments conclusively show that both the modular living wall and open-ventilated facade significantly reduce solar heat loads compared with non-passive bare wall facades, demonstrating their effectiveness in enhancing thermal performance and minimizing heat absorption.
Can Docked Bike-Sharing Systems Reach Their Dual Sustainability in Terms of Environmental Benefits and Financial Operations? A Comparative Study from Nanjing, 2017 and 2023
Authors: Liu Yixiao , Liu Wenshan , Zhao Rui , Tian Lixin
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we investigate the sustainability of docked bike-sharing in Nanjing in terms of environmental benefits and financial operations by comparing the data of March 2017 and March 2023 in Nanjing. We modify a community detection method, give and prove dynamic boundary conditions for the objective function of the heuristic algorithm, and realize the estimation of the rebalancing coefficients for this mega-system, thus obtaining more accurate emission factors. We find that there are significant differences in the results obtained from environmental benefit assessments over time. Further, there are also significant differences at the national level. This may signify that the assessment data of one country’s system cannot give a direct reference for another country’s system. Second, we considered the economic basis required for the environmental benefits of docked bike-sharing systems. We have calculated the sustainability of the system’s financial operations by considering its revenues over the next nine years, including the cost of facility inputs, facility upgrades, dispatching costs, labor costs, maintenance costs, and the time value of money. The results show a 4.6-fold difference in emission factors between 2017 and 2023; comparing 2017 to 2023 (when demand loss has been severe), the investment in 2017 will be recouped 2 years later than in 2023. Switching distribution vehicles from fuel vehicles to electric trikes would severely deteriorate the operator’s key financial metrics while only reducing the emission factor value by 8.64 gCO2 eq/km, leading to an unsustainable system. This signals the potential for the financial unsustainability, or even bankruptcy, of operators if the requirements for sustained emissions reductions from the bike-sharing system are divorced from the form of the economy on which it is sustainably operated. Finally, we consider the geographical patterns between environmental benefits and financial operations. We find that financial sustainability varies across geographic locations. Under financial sustainability, we gave emission factors under the mix distribution vehicle scenario.
Validation of a Key Performance Indicator Framework Demonstrating Economic Benefits Gained through Resolving Nautical Bottlenecks on Selected Sections of the Danube
Authors: Duldner-Borca Bianca , van Hassel Edwin , Putz-Egger Lisa-Maria
Published: December 2023

Addressing nautical bottlenecks is crucial for optimizing the utilization of inland waterways and maximizing the economic benefits of transports. To maximize economic benefits, a study was conducted to validate a key performance indicator (KPI)-based framework. This framework offers a structured approach to assessing the impact of resolved nautical bottlenecks on the economic benefits of inland waterway transport (IWT). To validate the applicability of the KPI framework, interviews with eleven experts were conducted. The goal was to prioritize each KPI based on their insights. The results of the interviews shed light on the relevance and coherence of both the individual KPIs and the overall KPI framework. The experts confirmed the importance of measures related to transportation efficiency, such as reduced transit times, increased vessel throughput, and enhanced reliability. The validated KPI-based framework serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers. It enables the assessment of the effects of resolving nautical bottlenecks in inland waterway systems. Future research should focus on quantifying the multifaceted impacts, making this framework even more useful for decision-making processes concerning investments in infrastructure upgrades and maintenance.
The Influence of Increased Electron Energy Spread on the Radiation of the Second Harmonic in Free Electron Lasers
Authors: Zhukovsky Konstantin
Published: December 2023

Free electron lasers (FELs) are becoming more and more popular as sources of radiation for research purposes in many fields of science. They are frequently employed in second harmonic generation (SHG) studies. SHG is an important effect of nonlinear responses of matter to irradiation. It should be separated from the second harmonic of the radiation source, FELs, for correct analysis of the response. Using an analytical model for harmonic powers evolution in a single-pass FEL, we demonstrate the dependence of FEL harmonics on the key parameters of beams and undulators and show that it is possible to reduce the second FEL harmonic content if the energy spread of an electron beam is increased. For LEUTL FEL radiation in the visible range, we analytically demonstrate a reduction in the second harmonic power by an order of magnitude if electron energy spread is increased twice, which still allows efficient bunching at the fundamental wavelength. The method is valid regardless of the photon energy and, therefore, the absorption edge of the target material, and as such, it is valid also in the X-ray band.
Phylogenetic Variation of Tri1 Gene and Development of PCR–RFLP Analysis for the Identification of NX Genotypes in Fusarium graminearum Species Complex
Authors: Gao Meiling , Zhang Mengyuan , Zhang Jiahui , Yang Xianli , Abdallah Mohamed F. , Wang Jianhua
Published: December 2023

NX toxins have been described as a novel group of type A trichothecenes produced by members of the Fusarium graminearum species complex (FGSC). Differences in structure between NX toxins and the common type B trichothecenes arise from functional variation in the trichothecene biosynthetic enzyme Tri1 in the FGSC. The identified highly conserved changes in the Tri1 gene can be used to develop specific PCR-based assays to identify the NX-producing strains. In this study, the sequences of the Tri1 gene from type B trichothecene- and NX-producing strains were analyzed to identify DNA polymorphisms between the two different kinds of trichothecene producers. Four sets of Polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methods were successfully developed to distinguish the common type B trichothecene producers and NX producers within FGSC. These promising diagnostic methods can be used for high-throughput genotype detection of Fusarium strains as a step forward for crop disease management and mycotoxin control in agriculture. Additionally, it was found that the Tri1 gene phylogeny differs from the species phylogeny, which is consistent with the previous studies.
Epidemiological Insights into the Omicron Outbreak via MeltArray-Assisted Real-Time Tracking of SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Yan Ting , Zheng Rongrong , Li Yinghui , Sun Siyang , Zeng Xiaohong , Yue Zhijiao , Liao Yiqun , Hu Qinghua , Xu Ye , Li Qingge
Published: December 2023

The prolonged course of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitates sustained surveillance of emerging variants. This study aimed to develop a multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (rt-PCR) suitable for the real-time tracking of Omicron subvariants in clinical and wastewater samples. Plasmids containing variant-specific mutations were used to develop a MeltArray assay. After a comprehensive evaluation of both analytical and clinical performance, the established assay was used to detect Omicron variants in clinical and wastewater samples, and the results were compared with those of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). The MeltArray assay identified 14 variant-specific mutations, enabling the detection of five Omicron sublineages (BA.2*, BA.5.2*, BA.2.75*, BQ.1*, and XBB.1*) and eight subvariants (BF.7, BN.1, BR.2, BQ.1.1, XBB.1.5, XBB.1.16, XBB.1.9, and BA.4.6). The limit of detection (LOD) of the assay was 50 copies/reaction, and no cross-reactivity was observed with 15 other respiratory viruses. Using NGS as the reference method, the clinical evaluation of 232 swab samples exhibited a clinical sensitivity of > 95.12% (95% CI 89.77–97.75%) and a specificity of > 95.21% (95% CI, 91.15–97.46%). When used to evaluate the Omicron outbreak from late 2022 to early 2023, the MeltArray assay performed on 1408 samples revealed that the epidemic was driven by BA.5.2* (883, 62.71%) and BF.7 (525, 37.29%). Additionally, the MeltArray assay demonstrated potential for estimating variant abundance in wastewater samples. The MeltArray assay is a rapid and scalable method for identifying SARS-CoV-2 variants. Integrating this approach with NGS and ddPCR will improve variant surveillance capabilities and ensure preparedness for future variants.
Early Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Spike Mutants Are Diversified in Virologic Properties but Elicit Compromised Antibody Responses
Authors: Fan Junhao , Li Shixiong , Zhang Yao , Zheng Jihao , Wang Dongfang , Liao Yunxi , Cui Zhibo , Zhao Dongyu , Barouch Dan H. , Yu Jingyou
Published: December 2023

Despite the effective antivirals and vaccines, COVID-19 remains a public health concern. The mutations that occurred during the early stage of the pandemic can be valuable in assessing the viral fitness and evolutionary trajectory. In this study, we analyzed a panel of 2969 spike sequences deposited in GISAID before April 2020 and characterized nine representative spike single-point mutants in detail. Compared with the WA01/2020, most (8 out of 9) mutants demonstrated an equivalent or diminished protein expression or processing, pseudovirus infectivity, and cell–cell fusion. Interestingly, most of the mutants in native form elicited minimum antibody responses in mice despite unaltered CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses. The mutants remained sensitive to the antisera and the type I interferon. Taken together, these data suggest that the early emerging mutants are virologically divergent, and some of which showed transmission fitness. Our findings have important implications for the retrospective tracing of the early SARS-CoV-2 transmission and future pandemic preparedness.
Patterns and Predictors of Phytoplankton Assemblage Structure in a Coastal Lagoon: Species-Specific Analysis Needed to Disentangle Anthropogenic Pressures from Ocean Processes
Authors: Lima Maria João , Barbosa Ana B. , Correia Cátia , Matos André , Cravo Alexandra
Published: December 2023

Phytoplankton are dominant primary producers and key indicators in aquatic ecosystems. Understanding the controlling factors on the structure of phytoplankton assemblages is fundamental, but particularly challenging at the land–ocean interface. To identify the patterns and predictors of phytoplankton assemblage structure in the Ria Formosa coastal lagoon (south Portugal), this study combined phytoplankton abundance along a transect between the discharge point of a wastewater treatment plant and a lagoon inlet, over two years, with physico-chemical, hydrographic, and meteo-oceanographic variables. Our study identified 147 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), and planktonic diatoms (60–74%) and cryptophyceans (17–25%) dominated the phytoplankton in terms of abundance. Despite strong lagoon hydrodynamics, and the lack of spatial differences in the phytoplankton abundance and most diversity metrics, the multivariate analysis revealed differences in the assemblage structure between stations (p < 0.001) and seasons (p < 0.01). Indicator analysis identified cryptophyceans as lagoon generalists, and 11 station-specific specialist OTUs, including Kryptoperidinium foliaceum and Oscillatoriales (innermost stations) and potentially toxigenic species (Pseudo-nitzschia and Dinophysis; outer lagoon station, p < 0.05). Water temperature, pH, and nutrients emerged as the variables that best explained the changes in the phytoplankton assemblage structure (p < 0.001). Our findings provide insight into the relevance of local anthropogenic and natural forcings on the phytoplankton assemblage structure and can be used to support the management of RF and other coastal lagoons.
Distribution Range of the Endangered Species Unio crassus Philipsson, 1788 in Serbia (Western Balkans Region), Historical and Recent Data
Authors: Tomović Jelena , Simić Vladica , Petrović Ana , Atanacković Ana , Zorić Katarina , Paunović Momir , Raković Maja
Published: December 2023

The thick-shelled river mussel, Unio crassus Philipson, 1788, is considered to be one of the species with the highest conservation priority in Serbia. The study represents the first comprehensive research of the distribution of U. crassus in Serbian waters. The research covered a variety of waterbody types throughout Serbia, and distribution data were considered over three time periods from 1953 to 2019. The paper summarizes all the available literature data, field research and information obtained during the review of the collection of malacological material of the Natural History Museum in Belgrade. The results show a positive population trend, which is reflected in an extension of the distribution area and an increase in population density. After reviewing the museum collection, 13 synonyms for U. crassus were identified. The study also revealed a better insight into the habitat requirements and the limiting factors of the species. Substrate characteristics, waterbody types, altitude, and nitrate content of the water seem to be of great importance for the occurrence of the species. The results presented here can improve further measures for the conservation of U. crassus, not only in Serbia, but also in the Western Balkans.
Productivity Analysis of Mid-Size Cable Yarding Operation based on UAV-captured Video Sequences
Authors: BÜYÜKSAKALLI Halit , AKAY Abdullah Emin
Published: December 2023

Cable yarding is one of the most preferred timber extraction methods in steep and mountainous terrain conditions. In recent years in Turkiye, mid-size cable yarders have begun to be used frequently in steep forest areas where intensive forestry is carried out. In order to make more effective use of cable yarders and achieve maximum productivity, timber extraction operations must be planned most appropriately and implemented in the field accordingly. The productivity of mechanized equipment used in harvesting operations is mainly determined by using time study analysis. In traditional methods, time measurements are carried out by observing the work stages with time recording devices (stopwatches) in the area where the machine operates. Since timber extraction by using a cable yarder occur in steep and rugged terrain conditions, difficulties may be encountered in applying time analysis in the field. In this study, it was aimed to obtain high-resolution digital video images of the activities of cable yarding operation with an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and to calculate productivity through time study analysis on these images. For the study, the Tajfun MOZ 500 GR model mid-size cable yarder was evaluated during a timber extraction operation in Köyceğiz Forest Enterprise Chief (FEC), located in Muğla City, Turkiye. Besides, statistical analysis was performed to estimate the effects of factors such as average product length, product diameter, lateral yarding distance, number of pieces, and total product volume per turn on the productivity of the cable yarder. The results indicated that UAV video images can be an effective alternative method to conduct time study analysis and productivity estimations. It was found that the productivity of the mid-size cable yarder was 11.76 m3/hour. During the operation, the pulling mainline to the product and choker setting were the most time-consuming work stages, followed by the time-loaded carriage reaching the landing. The statistical analysis indicated a significant relationship (p<0.001) between product length, product diameter, total volume and productivity of the cable yarder. The results showed that there was a negative relationship between lateral yarding distance and productivity. The regression model regarding the productivity of the cable yarder and the independent variables was also significant.
Monitoring infection load of oxyurid (nematoda) and Isospora (coccidia) in captive inland bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps)
Authors: Pike Caitlin , Hsieh Sally , Baling Marleen
Published: December 2023

Endoparasites, such as helminths and protozoans, have been associated with mortality and gastrointestinal disease in reptiles, with particularly high prevalence observed in pet reptiles. We conducted an observational study on six juvenile captive inland bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps), to monitor the presence and estimate the abundance of intestinal endoparasite via faecal samples (egg counts using modified McMaster) over three months. We detected two types of endoparasites, coccidia Isospora sp. and oxyurid Phyrngodon sp. Oxyurid nematode ova shed almost 2.5 times higher egg count per gram of faeces in the afternoon compared to the morning, but the estimated egg counts did not significantly vary from August to October 2023. In contrast, for Isospora, there was no difference in oocyst counts between the two times of day sampled, but the shedding of Isospora oocyst increased over the three months. Often Isospora sp. are recorded to be highly pathogenic and can cause mortality in juvenile reptiles, whereas oxyurid are regarded as beneficial to their host unless they are found in high burdens. In this study, we did not find any significant association between the estimated quantity of egg/oocyst and the body condition of the dragons during the three months. Further studies are required to investigate pathogenicity or benefit of oxyurid to their hosts at different development stages. Finally, the storage period between collection and egg/oocyst quantification varied in this study, which may affect the estimated count of the eggs or oocysts. However, we did not find any apparent influence on time when faecal samples were processed to the number of eggs/oocysts that we counted.