bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon Footprint of Additively Manufactured Precious Metals Products
Authors: Schmidt Mario , Heinrich Jochen , Huensche Ingwar
Published: November 2024

Traditionally, precious metals are processed by either lost-wax casting or the casting of semi-finished products followed by cold or hot working, machining, and surface finishing. Long process chains usually conclude in a high material input factor and a significant amount of new scrap to be refined. The maturing of Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies is advantageous with regard to resources among other criteria by opening up new processing techniques like laser-based powder bed fusion (LPBF) for the production of near net shape metal products. This paper gives an insight into major advantages of the powder-based manufacturing of precious metal components over conventional methods focusing on product carbon footprints (PCF). Material Flow Cost Accounting (MFCA) for selected applications show energy and mass flows and inefficient recoverable losses in detail. An extended MFCA approach also shows the greenhouse gas (GHG) savings from avoiding recoverable material losses and provides PCF for the products. The PCF of the precious metals used is based on a detailed Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the refining process of end-of-use precious metals. In the best case, the refining of platinum from end-of-life recycling, for example, causes 60 kg CO2e per kg of platinum. This study reveals recommended actions for improvements in efficiency and gives guidance for a more sustainable production of luxury or technical goods made from precious metals. This exemplary study on the basis of an industrial application shows that the use of AM leads to a carbon footprint of 2.23 kg CO2e per piece in comparison with 3.17 kg CO2e by conventional manufacturing, which means about a 30 percent reduction in GHG emissions and also in energy, respectively.
Optimal Hyperspectral Characteristic Parameters Construction and Concentration Retrieval for Inland Water Chlorophyll-a Under Different Motion States
Authors: Yu Jie , Zhang Zhonghan , Lin Yi , Zhang Yuguan , Ye Qin , Zhou Xuefei , Wang Hongtao , Qu Mingzhi , Ren Wenwei
Published: November 2024

In recent decades, the rapid expansion of phytoplankton blooms caused by lake eutrophication has led to severe ecological destruction and impeded the sustainable economic development of local regions. Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) is commonly used as a biological indicator to detect phytoplankton blooms due to its ease of detection. To improve the accuracy of Chl-a estimation in aquatic systems, an accurate understanding of its true spectral characteristics is imperative. In this study, a comprehensive and realistic experimental scheme was designed from the perspective of real algal strains and real water states. Both in situ and laboratory-based hyperspectral data were collected and analyzed. The results show that there are huge spectral differences not only between laboratory-cultured and real algae strains, but also between static and disturbed water surface conditions. A total of ten different categories of spectral characteristics were selected in both disturbed and static states. Then, six parameters with the best models to the Chl-a concentration were identified. Finally, two linear models of the Chl-a concentration at peaks of 810 nm and 700 nm were identified as the best estimation models for the static and disturbed states, respectively. The results provide a scientific reference for the large-scale retrieval of the Chl-a concentration using satellite remote sensing data. This advancement benefits inland water monitoring and management efforts.
Three-Dimensional Surface Motion Displacement Estimation of the Muz Taw Glacier, Sawir Mountains
Authors: Wang Yanqiang , Zhao Jun , Li Zhongqin , Yang Yanjie , Liu Jialiang
Published: November 2024

Research on glacier movement is helpful for comprehensively understanding the laws behind this movement and can also provide a scientific basis for glacier change and analyses of the dynamic mechanisms driving atmospheric circulation and glacier evolution. Sentinel-1 series data were used in this study to retrieve the three-dimensional (3D) surface motion displacement of the Muz Taw glacier from 22 August 2017, to 17 August 2018. The inversion method of the 3D surface motion displacement of glaciers has been verified by the field measurement data from Urumqi Glacier No. 1. The effects of topographic factors, glacier thickness, and climate factors on the 3D surface displacement of the Muz Taw glacier are discussed in this paper. The results show that, during the study period, the total 3D displacement of the Muz Taw glacier was between 0.52 and 13.19 m, the eastward displacement was 4.27 m, the northward displacement was 4.07 m, and the horizontal displacement was 5.90 m. Areas of high displacement were mainly distributed in the main glacier at altitudes of 3300–3350 and 3450–3600 m. There were significant differences in the total 3D displacement of the Muz Taw glacier in each season. The displacement was larger in summer, followed by spring, and it was similar in autumn and winter. The total 3D displacement during the whole study period and in spring, summer, and autumn fluctuated greatly along the glacier centerline, while the change in winter was relatively gentle. Various factors such as topography, glacier thickness, and climate had different influences on the surface motion displacement of the Muz Taw glacier.
New Method to Correct Vegetation Bias in a Copernicus Digital Elevation Model to Improve Flow Path Delineation
Authors: Brochado Gabriel Thomé , Rennó Camilo Daleles
Published: November 2024

Digital elevation models (DEM) are widely used in many hydrologic applications, providing key information about the topography, which is a major driver of water flow in a landscape. Several open access DEMs with near-global coverage are currently available, however, they represent the elevation of the earth’s surface including all its elements, such as vegetation cover and buildings. These features introduce a positive elevation bias that can skew the water flow paths, impacting the extraction of hydrological features and the accuracy of hydrodynamic models. Many attempts have been made to reduce the effects of this bias over the years, leading to the generation of improved datasets based on the original global DEMs, such as MERIT DEM and, more recently, FABDEM. However, even after these corrections, the remaining bias still affects flow path delineation in a significant way. Aiming to improve on this aspect, a new vegetation bias correction method is proposed in this work. The method consists of subtracting from the Copernicus DEM elevations their respective forest height but adjusted by correction factors to compensate for the partial penetration of the SAR pulses into the vegetation cover during the Copernicus DEM acquisition process. These factors were calculated by a new approach where the slope around the pixels at the borders of each vegetation patch were analyzed. The forest height was obtained from a global dataset developed for the year 2019. Moreover, to avoid temporal vegetation cover mismatch between the DEM and the forest height dataset, we introduced a process where the latter is automatically adjusted to best match the Copernicus acquisition year. The correction method was applied for regions with different forest cover percentages and topographic characteristics, and the result was compared to the original Copernicus DEM and FABDEM, which was used as a benchmark for vegetation bias correction. The comparison method was hydrology-based, using drainage networks obtained from topographic maps as reference. The new corrected DEM showed significant improvements over both the Copernicus DEM and FABDEM in all tested scenarios. Moreover, a qualitative comparison of these DEMs was also performed through exhaustive visual analysis, corroborating these findings. These results suggest that the use of this new vegetation bias correction method has the potential to improve DEM-based hydrological applications worldwide.
Initial Design for Next-Generation BeiDou Integrity Subsystem: Space–Ground Integrated Integrity Monitoring
Authors: Gao Weiguang , Chen Lei , Lv Feiren , Zhan Xingqun , Chen Lin , Liu Yuqi , Dai Yongshan , Jin Yundi
Published: November 2024

It is essential to provide high-integrity navigation information for safety-critical applications. Global navigation satellite systems (GNSSs) play an important role in these applications because they can provide global, high-accuracy, all-weather navigation services. Therefore, it has been a hot topic to improve GNSS integrity performance. This paper focuses on an initial proposal of the next-generation BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) integrity subsystem, with the aim of providing high-quality and global integrity services for the BDS. This paper first reviews the current status of the third-generation BDS integrity service. Following this, this paper proposes a space–ground integrated integrity monitoring design for the BDS that integrates the traditional ground-based integrity monitoring method, the advanced satellite autonomous integrity monitoring (A-SAIM) method, and the augmentation from low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellites. Specifically, this work offers an initial design of the A-SAIM method, which considers both single-satellite autonomous integrity monitoring and multi-satellite joint integrity monitoring. In addition, this work describes two different ways to augment BDS integrity with LEO satellites, i.e., (a) LEO satellites act as space monitoring stations and (b) LEO satellites act as navigation satellites. Simulations are carried out to validate the proposed design using CAT-I operation in civil aviation as an example. Simulation results indicate the effectiveness of the proposed design. In addition, simulation results suggest that if the fault probability of LEO satellites is worse than 1 × 10−4, LEO satellites can contribute more to BDS integrity performance improvement by acting as space monitoring stations; otherwise, it would be better to employ LEO satellites to broadcast navigation signals. The results also suggest that after taking LEO satellites into account, the global coverage of CAT-I can be potentially improved from 67% to 99%. This work is beneficial to the design of the next-generation BDS integrity subsystem.
A Blockchain of Things System for Managing Handcrafted Products in a Cultural Industry
Authors: Aounzou Youssef , Kalloubi Fahd , Boulaalam Abdelhak
Published: November 2024

The handicraft sector is often seen as a symbol of a country’s cultural identity, as it relies on specialized traditional techniques, skills, and knowledge that are often passed down through generations. As a result, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of this creative value has become a significant challenge, especially with the growth of counterfeiting techniques in this industry. Thus, integrating digital technologies into such sectors offers numerous operational benefits such as transparency, decentralization, data security, and authenticity needs. This paper presents an innovative approach for the handicraft sector, which exploits blockchain technology and the Internet of Things to guarantee the authenticity of cultural heritage. Through experimental evaluations comparing the decentralized blockchain-based system with traditional centralized methods using key metrics such as response time and transactions per second, this study reveals significant results. The statistical analysis reveals that the decentralized approach improves performance in terms of response times for verification and addition processes compared to the centralized system. Specifically, verification is approximately 4.66 times faster and addition is approximately 4.30 times faster in a decentralized system. However, transaction latency in the decentralized approach is approximately 38.21% higher than in the centralized system.
Temperature and Frequency Dependence of Human Cerebrospinal Fluid Dielectric Parameters
Authors: Wang Weice , Zhu Mingxu , Liu Benyuan , Li Weichen , Wang Yu , Li Junyao , Guo Qingdong , Du Fang , Xu Canhua , Shi Xuetao
Published: November 2024

Accurate human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dielectric parameters are critical for biological electromagnetic applications such as the electromagnetic field modelling of the human brain, the localization and intensity assessment of electrical generators in the brain, and electromagnetic protection. To detect brain damage signals during temperature changes by electrical impedance tomography (EIT), the change in CSF dielectric parameters with frequency (10 Hz–100 MHz) and temperature (17–39 °C) was investigated. A Debye model was first established to capture the complex impedance frequency and temperature characteristics. Furthermore, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis based on the dielectric parameters of normal and diseased CSF was carried out to identify lesions. The Debye model’s characteristic fc parameters linearly increased with increasing temperature (R2 = 0.989), and R0 and R1 linearly decreased (R2 = 0.990). The final established formula can calculate the complex impedivity of CSF with a maximum fitting error of 3.79%. Furthermore, the ROC based on the real part of impedivity at 10 Hz and 17 °C yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.898 with a specificity of 0.889 and a sensitivity of 0.944. These findings are expected to facilitate the application of electromagnetic technology, such as disease diagnosis, specific absorption rate calculation, and biosensor design.
A Review of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Based Antenna and Propagation Measurements
Authors: Kandregula Venkat R. , Zaharis Zaharias D. , Ahmed Qasim Z. , Khan Faheem A. , Loh Tian Hong , Schreiber Jason , Serres Alexandre Jean René , Lazaridis Pavlos I.
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive survey of state-of-the-art UAV–based antennas and propagation measurements. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have emerged as powerful tools for in situ electromagnetic field assessments due to their flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and ability to operate in challenging environments. This paper highlights various UAV applications, from testing large–scale antenna arrays, such as those used in the square kilometer array (SKA), to evaluating channel models for 5G/6G networks. Additionally, the review discusses technical challenges, such as positioning accuracy and antenna alignment, and it provides insights into the latest advancements in portable measurement systems and antenna designs tailored for UAV use. During the UAV–based antenna measurements, key contributors to the relatively small inaccuracies of around 0.5 to 1 dB are identified. In addition to factors such as GPS positioning errors and UAV vibrations, ground reflections can significantly contribute to inaccuracies, leading to variations in the measured radiation patterns of the antenna. By minimizing ground reflections during UAV–based antenna measurements, errors in key measured antenna parameters, such as HPBW, realized gain, and the front-to-back ratio, can be effectively mitigated. To understand the source of propagation losses in a UAV to ground link, simulations were conducted in CST. These simulations identified scattering effects caused by surrounding buildings. Additionally, by simulating a UAV with a horn antenna, potential sources of electromagnetic coupling between the antenna and the UAV body were detected. The survey concludes by identifying key areas for future research and emphasizing the potential of UAVs to revolutionize antenna and propagation measurement practices to avoid the inaccuracies of the antenna parameters measured by the UAV.
Simulating and Verifying a 2D/3D Laser Line Sensor Measurement Algorithm on CAD Models and Real Objects
Authors: Belšak Rok , Gotlih Janez , Karner Timi
Published: November 2024

The increasing adoption of 2D/3D laser line sensors in industrial and research applications necessitates accurate and efficient simulation tools for tasks such as surface inspection, dimensional verification, and quality control. This paper presents a novel algorithm developed in MATLAB for simulating the measurements of any 2D/3D laser line sensor on STL CAD models. The algorithm uses a modified fast-ray triangular intersection method, addressing challenges such as overlapping triangles in assembly models and incorporating sensor resolution to ensure realistic simulations. Quantitative analysis shows a significant reduction in computation time, enhancing the practical utility of the algorithm. The simulation results exhibit a mean deviation of 0.42 mm when compared to real-world measurements. Notably, the algorithm effectively handles complex geometric features, such as holes and grooves, and offers flexibility in generating point cloud data in both local and global coordinate systems. This work not only reduces the need for physical prototyping, thereby contributing to sustainability, but also supports AI training by generating accurate synthetic data. Future work should aim to further optimize the simulation speed and explore noise modeling to enhance the realism of simulated measurements.
Efficient Video Compression Using Afterimage Representation
Authors: Jeon Minseong , Cheoi Kyungjoo
Published: November 2024

Recent advancements in large-scale video data have highlighted the growing need for efficient data compression techniques to enhance video processing performance. In this paper, we propose an afterimage-based video compression method that significantly reduces video data volume while maintaining analytical performance. The proposed approach utilizes optical flow to adaptively select the number of keyframes based on scene complexity, optimizing compression efficiency. Additionally, object movement masks extracted from keyframes are accumulated over time using alpha blending to generate the final afterimage. Experiments on the UCF-Crime dataset demonstrated that the proposed method achieved a 95.97% compression ratio. In binary classification experiments on normal/abnormal behaviors, the compressed videos maintained performance comparable to the original videos, while in multi-class classification, they outperformed the originals. Notably, classification experiments focused exclusively on abnormal behaviors exhibited a significant 4.25% improvement in performance. Moreover, further experiments showed that large language models (LLMs) can interpret the temporal context of original videos from single afterimages. These findings confirm that the proposed afterimage-based compression technique effectively preserves spatiotemporal information while significantly reducing data size.
Development of a Conceptual Scheme for Controlling Tool Wear During Cutting, Based on the Interaction of Virtual Models of a Digital Twin and a Vibration Monitoring System
Authors: Viktor Lapshin , Ilya Turkin , Valeriya Gvindzhiliya , Ilya Dudinov , Denis Gamaleev
Published: November 2024

This article discusses the issue of the joint use of neural network algorithms for data processing and deterministic mathematical models. The use of a new approach is proposed, to determine the discrepancy between data from a vibration monitoring system of the cutting process and the calculated data obtained by modeling mathematical models of the digital twin system of the cutting process. This approach is justified by the fact that some coordinates for the state of the cutting process cannot be measured, and the vibration signals measured by the vibration monitoring system (the vibration acceleration of the tip of the cutting tool) are subject to external disturbing influences. Both the experimental method and the Matlab 2022b simulation method were used as research methods. The experimental research method is based on the widespread use of modern analog vibration transducers, the signals from which undergo the process of digitalization and further processing in order to identify arrays of additional information required for virtual digital twin models. The results obtained allow us to formulate a new conceptual approach to the construction of systems for determining the degree of cutting tool wear, based on the joint use of computational virtual models of the digital twin system and data obtained from the vibration monitoring system of the cutting process.
Community Twin Ecosystem for Disaster Resilient Communities
Authors: Luleci Furkan , Sevim Alican , Ozguven Eren Erman , Catbas F. Necati
Published: November 2024

This paper presents COWINE (Community Twin Ecosystem), an ecosystem that harnesses Digital Twin (DT) to elevate and transform community resilience strategies. COWINE aims to enhance the disaster resilience of communities by fostering collaborative participation in the use of its DT among the decision-makers, the general public, and other involved stakeholders. COWINE leverages Cities:Skylines as its base simulation engine integrated with real-world data for community DT development. It is capable of capturing the dynamic, intricate, and interconnected structures of communities to provide actionable insights into disaster resilience planning. Through demonstrative, simulation-based case studies on Brevard County, Florida, the paper illustrates COWINE’s collaborative use with the involved parties in managing tornado scenarios. This study demonstrates how COWINE supports the identification of vulnerable areas, the execution of adaptive strategies, and the efficient allocation of resources before, during, and after a disaster. This paper further explores potential research directions using COWINE. The findings show COWINE’s potential to be utilized as a collaborative tool for community disaster resilience management.
Gender-Based Violence and 2SLGBTQI+ Groups
Authors: Davidson Cara A. , Mantler Tara , Jackson Kimberley T.
Published: November 2024

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive public health issue that affects all Canadians, including Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Inuit, Métis); however, it is well-understood that GBV disproportionately affects certain social groups. An estimated one million Canadians aged 15 and older identify with a sexual orientation other than heterosexual, and approximately 1 in 300 people identify as transgender or non-binary. In Canada, violence rooted in biphobia, homophobia, transphobia, and queerphobia results in disproportionately high levels of GBV experienced by Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or questioning), intersex, and other individuals who identify outside of cisgender, heterosexual norms (2SLGBTQI+ people). The health impacts of GBV experienced by people who identify outside of gender and sexuality norms are profound, spanning mental and physical dimensions across the life course. This article employs an anti-oppression queer framework to provide a comprehensive overview of current knowledge and understandings of GBV in Canada concerning 2SLGBTQI+ people, emphasizing (1) the disproportionate risk of GBV faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities within the context of Canadian social politics; (2) key links between the experiences of GBV among 2SLGBTQI+ people in Canada and associated health disparities; (3) current orientations to GBV policy, practice, and research, with an emphasis on contemporary, inclusive paradigms that shape equity-oriented health and social services; and (4) future directions aimed at eradicating GBV and addressing health inequities among 2SLGBTQI+ people in Canada. While much work remains to be done, the expansion of 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion in GBV prevention within the past five years points to a promising future.
Probing the Charge State and the Intermolecular Environment by Vibrational Spectroscopy: The Peculiar Modulation of Frequencies and Band Intensities of F4TCNQ and Its Anion
Authors: Saporiti Carlo , Brambilla Luigi , Tommasini Matteo , Del Zoppo Mirella , Castiglioni Chiara , Zerbi Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (F4TCNQ) is a molecule widely employed as a very effective p-dopant of semi-conducting polymers, such as poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT). The CN stretching transitions of F4TCNQ are exceptionally sensitive to the charge state of the molecule, thus allowing the doping diagnosis via IR spectroscopy. Less pronounced frequency shifts can reveal characteristics of the intermolecular environment. We present a systematic study based on Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations and on experiments aimed at exploring how different factors, such as the charge state and the environment, modify the vibrational spectra of F4TCNQ. While several effects on the vibrational frequencies are well known and have been thoroughly investigated in the past, this study focuses on the infrared intensities of the CN stretching modes and reveals that they are strongly affected both by the charge state of the molecule and by the surrounding medium: it is then mandatory to consider such remarkable intensity modulation for any quantitative diagnosis based on spectroscopic measurements, e.g., concerning the number of F4TCNQ molecules involved in the formation of charge transfer complexes.
Beyond Borders and Genders: Unveiling Cultural Influences on Badminton Motivation Among Older Adult Players in Taiwan and the United States
Authors: Liao Wei-Chieh , Chia-Smith Yun-Dih , Cabello-Manrique David , Wang Chia-Min , Liao Li-An
Published: November 2024

This study explores and compares the motivations behind badminton participation among older adult players from Taiwan and the United States (U.S.), with a specific focus on cultural and gender differences. A total of 139 participants aged 60 and above took part in the study, with 55 from the United States (24 females, 31 males) and 84 from Taiwan (39 females, 45 males). Utilizing the Exercise Motivations Inventory-2 (EMI-2), this research examines differences in motivations across cultural and gender lines, identifying key factors such as health-related motivations, personal achievement, social interactions, and competition. The results reveal that Taiwanese players are more motivated by health benefits and stress reduction, while U.S. players emphasize personal achievement and recognition. Additionally, gender-specific motivations emerged, with female players from both countries placing greater importance on social interactions compared to their male counterparts. These findings underscore the need for culturally and gender-sensitive approaches to promote sports participation among older adults in diverse settings.
Shaping Rice Preferences: Effects of Farming Information, Package Design and Consumer Attributes
Authors: Sekiya Nobuhito , Nakajima Toru , Tsuji Takeshi
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the effects of information disclosure on consumer acceptance of organic and conventional rice, focusing on sensory experiences and repurchase intentions. Two randomized controlled trials were conducted with 211 university staff members to examine how farming practice information, package design, and producer information influence taste perception and willingness to eat rice again. In the first trial, disclosure of organic farming information significantly improved both taste perception and willingness to eat organic rice again. The proportion of participants preferring organic rice taste increased from 31.8% to 44.8%, while willingness to eat organic rice again rose from 16.4% to 34.4% with information disclosure. The second trial, focusing on conventional rice, revealed that while package design and producer information did not significantly affect taste perception, they positively influenced repurchase intentions. Willingness to eat rice in a designed package again increased from 17.3% to 29.4% when producer information was disclosed. Across both trials, a strong relationship between taste evaluation and willingness to eat again was observed. Individual attributes, such as being particular about food, showed complex relationships with rice evaluation. Notably, environmental awareness, despite being prevalent among respondents, had limited effect on organic rice evaluation. These findings have important implications for organic rice marketing strategies and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. They suggest that providing clear information about organic farming practices could enhance consumer acceptance and potentially increase market share for organic rice. For conventional rice producers, results highlight the importance of package design and producer information in influencing repurchase intentions.
The Impact of Military Culture on Innovation Risk-Taking: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Wang Qingjin , Zheng Siqi
Published: November 2024

This study examines the impact of military cultural atmosphere on corporate innovation risk-taking within the unique institutional context of China. Leveraging an unbalanced panel dataset of 3506 Chinese A-share listed companies, comprising 15,381 observations from 2010 to 2022, this empirical analysis captures dynamic firm-level changes over time. Using ordinary least squares (OLS) regression to assess the effects of military cultural atmosphere and two-stage least squares (2SLS) to address potential endogeneity concerns, this study ensures robust results. The findings reveal that military cultural atmosphere, characterized by discipline, hierarchy, and collective responsibility, significantly enhances firms’ propensity for innovation risk-taking. Additionally, political connections emerge as a key mediating factor in this relationship, while perceived power within the organization moderates the mediation effect, exhibiting a negative moderation. These results underscore the critical role of military backgrounds among senior executives in shaping corporate culture and strategic decision-making, particularly in China’s policy-driven market environment. This study offers valuable insights for fostering long-term corporate resilience and strategic innovation, while also contributing to a deeper understanding of the interaction between corporate culture and innovation across different institutional settings.
Projection of Changes in Stream Water Use Due to Climate Change
Authors: Seo Young-Ho , Park Junehyeong , Kim Byung-Sik , Sung Jang Hyun
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the impact of rising temperatures on residential water use (RWU) in Seoul from 2015 to 2021, addressing the challenges of urban water sustainability under climate change. Using advanced models—convolutional neural networks (CNNs), long short-term memory (LSTM) Networks, eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and Bayesian Neural Networks (BNNs)—we examined RWU prediction accuracy and incorporated a method to quantify prediction uncertainties. As a result, the BNN model emerged as a robust alternative, demonstrating competitive predictive accuracy and the capability to account for uncertainties in predictions. Recent studies highlight a strong correlation between rising temperatures and increased RWU, especially during summer, with tropical nights (with temperatures above 25 °C) becoming more common; Seoul experienced a record 26 consecutive tropical nights in July 2024, underscoring a trend toward higher RWU. To capture these dynamics, we employed Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) scenarios and downscaled the KACE-1-0-G Global Climate Model (GCM) for Seoul, projecting a progressive increase in RWU: 0.49% in the F1 period (2011–2040), 1.53% in F2 (2041–2070), and 2.95% in F3 (2071–2100), with significant rises in maximum RWU across these intervals. Our findings highlight an urgent need for proactive measures to secure water resources in response to the anticipated increase in urban water demand driven by climate change.
Can the Carbon Trading Policy Enhance Resource Allocation Efficiency?—An Analysis of the Synergistic Effect of Market Mechanism and Government Intervention
Authors: Zhao Yunqing , Dai Debao , Shao Wei , Ye Liang
Published: November 2024

The carbon trading pilot policy is a key policy to achieve low-carbon development through market mechanism. Studying the impact of carbon trading on resource allocation efficiency can provide an important empirical basis to achieve energy saving and green development. This paper delves into the influence of carbon trading on resource allocation efficiency by utilizing the multiperiod difference-in-differences based on comprehensive provincial data spanning from 2011 to 2020 in China. The findings show that carbon trading can promote the optimization of capital allocation efficiency but negatively affect the labor allocation efficiency in the pilot areas. This conclusion still holds through various robustness tests. Further research on regional heterogeneity shows that there are significant differences in the impact of resource allocation efficiency and labor allocation efficiency between eastern and western regions. Crucially, the limited scope of the carbon market’s direct influence on labor allocation efficiency is highlighted, demonstrating the need for government intervention to amplify its optimization effects based on the synergistic effect. It provides vital empirical insights for China’s ongoing pursuit of energy-saving and green development strategies, emphasizing the synergies between market mechanisms and government regulation in fostering sustainable economic transformation.
Investigation of Dyeing Characteristics of Merino Wool Fiber Dyed with Sustainable Natural Dye Extracted from Aesculus hippocastanum
Authors: Eyupoglu Seyda , Eyupoglu Can , Merdan Nigar , Karakuş Oktay
Published: November 2024

Recently there has been growing interest in dyeing biomaterials using natural sustainable plant extracts classified as eco-friendly. The microwave-assisted method provides fast heating and energy efficiency, more homogenous heat distribution in dyeing baths, less use of chemicals, and less heat loss, resulting in this method being greener—more sustainable and ecological. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are used to predict the dyeing properties of fibers, which are often complex and dependent on multiple variables. This saves time and reduces costs compared to trial-and-error methods. This study presents the green dyeing of merino wool fiber with natural dye extracted from Aesculus hippocastanum (horse chestnut) shells using the microwave-assisted method. Before dyeing, the merino wool fiber underwent a pre-mordanted process with aluminum potassium sulfate with different concentrations using the microwave-assisted method. Spectrophotometric analysis of the light, washing, and rubbing fastness of the dyed merino wool fibers was performed. The color strength, light, washing, and rubbing fastness of the dyed merino wool fiber were developed using the pre-mordanting process. After the pre-mordanting process, the light fastness of the samples improved from 1–2 to 3, the color change increased from 2 to 3–4, and the rubbing fastness developed from 2–3 to 4 according to mordant concentration, mordanting time, and dyeing time quantities. The spectrophotometric analysis results indicate that color coordinates vary based on mordant concentration, mordanting, and dyeing duration. Furthermore, the results proved that microwave energy significantly shortened the mordanting and dyeing duration, resulting in an eco-friendly dyeing process. In this investigation, a feed-forward neural network (FFNN) model with sigmoid hidden neurons and a linear output neuron was used to predict the color strength dyeing property of merino wool fiber. Experimental results showed that the proposed model achieved a regression value of 0.9 for the color strength dyeing property. As demonstrated, the proposed FFNN model is effective and can be utilized to forecast the color strength dyeing properties of merino wool fiber.
Innovative Pathways in Carbon Capture: Advancements and Strategic Approaches for Effective Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage
Authors: Saxena Aryan , Prakash Gupta Jai , Tiwary Janmejay Kumar , Kumar Ashutosh , Sharma Saurav , Pandey Gaurav , Biswas Susham , Raghav Chaturvedi Krishna
Published: November 2024

Due to carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, driven by our reliance on fossil fuels and deforestation, the challenge of global warming looms ever larger. The need to keep the global temperature rise below 1.5 °C has never been more pressing, pushing us toward innovative solutions. Enter carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies, our frontline defense in the fight against climate change. Imagine a world where CO2, once a harbinger of environmental doom, is transformed into a tool for healing. This review takes you on a journey through the realm of CCUS, revealing how these technologies capture CO2 from the very sources of our industrial and power activities, repurpose it, and lock it away in geological vaults. We explore the various methods of capture—post-combustion, oxy-fuel combustion, and membrane separation—each with their own strengths and challenges. But it is not just about science; economics play a crucial role. The costs of capturing, transporting, and storing CO2 are substantial, but they come with the promise of a burgeoning market for CO2-derived products. We delve into these financial aspects and look at how captured CO2 can be repurposed for enhanced oil recovery, chemical manufacturing, and mineralization, turning waste into worth. We also examine the landscape of commercial-scale CCS projects, highlighting both global strides and regional nuances in their implementation. As we navigate through these advancements, we spotlight the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to revolutionize CCUS processes, making them more efficient and cost-effective. In this sweeping review, we underscore the pivotal role of CCUS technologies in our global strategy to decarbonize and forge a path toward a sustainable future. Join us as we uncover how innovation, supportive policies, and public acceptance are paving the way for a cleaner, greener world.
Importance of Farmers’ Awareness on Ecological Revitalization to Promote Sustainable Development
Authors: Sun Bailiang , Wang Xin , Luo Pingping , Zhao Yang , Rijal Madhab
Published: November 2024

Implementing rural revitalization strategies requires understanding ecological revitalization, and improving farmers’ ecological awareness is crucial for promoting ecological revitalization. China’s rural ecological civilization construction is based on a theoretical foundation of Marxist ecological thought. This study examined the cultivation of ecological awareness among farmers in ecological revitalization using the literature, graphs, data statistics, and case analysis methods. A survey conducted in Gansu Province, in China, showed that more than 90% of people are satisfied with current ecosystem revitalization projects. The use of chemical fertilizer is decreasing every year, and the area of water-saving irrigation and soil erosion control has increased since implementing the Three-Year Action Plan for Rural Living Environment Improvement in 2018. The findings indicate the need for farmers to be more aware of general ecological concepts and economic development, and to participate more in ecological governance. Consequently, this study proposes policy measures such as strengthening ecological civilization ideological education, increasing investment in funds and technology, improving the relevant legal mechanisms to provide educational support for cultivating farmers’ ecological awareness, creating a cultural atmosphere, and building a solid institutional guarantee. The study has valuable implications for policymakers, industrialists, and academicians informing the development of strategies and interventions to promote farmers’ ecological awareness for rural ecological revitalization and sustainable development.
An Overview of Sustainable Desalination with Freezing Crystallization: Current Development, Future Challenges, and Prospects
Authors: Zhao Senyao , Zhu Rongjie , Song Jiatong , Yuan Han
Published: November 2024

As global demand for freshwater grows, seawater desalination has become one of the most promising methods for obtaining freshwater. Many coastal nations have included it in their sustainable development plans and are actively advancing related technologies. Compared with traditional desalination methods, such as distillation and membrane-based desalination, seawater freezing desalination offers the benefit of producing large amounts of freshwater at lower costs. This study provides an overview of the main methods and principles of seawater freezing desalination and summarizes the latest research progress. This paper also discusses experimental and simulation studies of different principles. Current research shows that both direct and indirect seawater freezing desalination technologies have become relatively mature, laying a foundation for practical applications. Hydrate-based desalination, eutectic freezing technology, and vacuum freezing technology offer cost-reduction benefits, but existing technologies have limitations, making these areas hot topics in research. Additionally, this paper discusses the experimental progress and simulation methods associated with this, elaborates upon, and analyzes the freezing crystallization process and desalination efficiency from the perspective of the bottom layer of crystal growth, offering valuable insights for future research. It concludes by summarizing and predicting the development of these technologies, emphasizing their great potential due to their low-cost and sustainable features.
Switched-Capacitor-Based Hybrid Resonant Bidirectional Buck–Boost Converter for Improving Energy Harvesting in Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Amaral da Luz Caio Meira , Okada Kenji Fabiano Ávila , Morais Aniel Silva , Tofoli Fernando Lessa , Ribeiro Enio Roberto
Published: November 2024

Photovoltaic (PV) modules are often connected in series to achieve the desired voltage level in practical applications. A common issue with this setup is module mismatch, which can be either permanent or temporary and is caused by various factors. The differential power processing (DPP) concept has emerged as a prominent solution to address this problem. However, a significant drawback of current DPP topologies is their reduced performance under certain conditions, particularly in cases of permanent mismatch. As a result, applications involving the DPP concept for permanent mismatches remain underexplored. In this context, the goal of this work is to develop and implement a novel DPP topology capable of increasing energy harvesting in PV systems under permanent mismatch. The proposed hybrid architecture combines features from both bidirectional buck–boost (BBB) and resonant switched capacitor (ReSC) converters. The ReSC converter operates under soft-switching conditions, minimizing undesirable losses. Key advantages of the proposed converter include fewer switches, lower voltage stress, and soft-switching operation, making it suitable for PV systems with mismatched modules. Experimental tests showed an energy harvesting improvement under the assessed conditions.
Ranking the Barriers to the Energy Upgrading of Buildings Using the Best-Worst Method
Authors: Antoniou Fani , Mageiropoulos Theofilos
Published: November 2024

The global need to reduce energy demand has led European governments to accelerate their endeavors to achieve their targets regarding nearly zero-energy buildings. Despite the implementation of funding initiatives for the energy upgrading of buildings in EU member states and other European countries, research has shown that the absorption rates of the offered funds remain low. This research aims to assess the significance of the barriers to improving the energy efficiency of Greece’s building stock. This is achieved by ranking the identified barriers using the best-worst method (BWM). The innovation provided by this study is that the data obtained are based on the experience of three categories of stakeholders, including professionals in the field, i.e., engineers and skilled workers, and homeowners. The results show that all three groups are discouraged from performing the energy upgrading of buildings due to economic barriers but also technological barriers related to a lack of training in the use of and slow development of related new technologies.
How Green Transformational Leaders Trigger Environmental Performance? Unleashing the Missing Links Through Green Self-Efficacy, Green Empowerment, and Green Training of Employees
Authors: Saleem Farida , Mateou Sofia , Malik Muhammad Imran
Published: November 2024

This study looks into how companies react to and adjust to shifting social and environmental factors. A comprehensive model is put forth and empirically tested using data from the pharmaceutical business, utilizing the dynamic capabilities theory perspective. An investigation is conducted into the factors that explain and influence the relationship between environmental performance (EP) and green transformational leaders (GTLs). Green empowerment and efficacy are suggested as potential explanators and green training is regarded as a prerequisite. A total of 247 managers employed by pharmaceutical companies provided data for the analysis of the suggested model. The analysis methods employed were PROCESS Macro and Structure Equation Modeling (SEM). The findings show that green transformational leaders have an insignificant direct influence on environmental performance but a significant indirect impact. This relationship is significantly mediated by green empowerment and self-efficacy and moderated by green training.
An Explorative Study on Packaging-Saving Consumer Practices in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Sector
Authors: Habermehl Tabea , Decker Thomas , Menrad Klaus
Published: November 2024

Considering global plastic waste pollution, current production and consumption patterns must be changed. Various measures address this challenge, which can be divided into efficiency, consistency, and sufficiency. Sufficiency has become more critical as research on sustainable consumption and packaging-related behavior has shown that efficiency and consistency strategies alone cannot solve environmental challenges. A deeper understanding of consumers’ packaging-related behavior is necessary to promote sufficiency-oriented consumption patterns and support consumers in everyday implementation. This study aims to investigate consumers’ packaging-saving practices in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector and to explore to what extent the practices differ in their actual feasibility in everyday life. For this purpose, we conducted an online survey in Germany with open-ended questions (n = 299). We evaluated the open-ended questions using qualitative content analysis. Overall, the results show that reducing plastic packaging plays a significant role in the participants’ everyday lives. However, the extent to which plastic packaging is avoided or reduced varies by consumption sector. This study extends research on plastic packaging avoidance and reduction to non-food consumption sectors. It also provides essential impulses for actors from science, politics, and industry regarding how consumers can be more strongly supported in their packaging-related behavior in the future, through targeted measures.