bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Wind Turbine Blade Preventive Maintenance Procedure through Computational Fluid Dynamics-Based Prediction of Wall Shear Stress
Authors: Palasai Wasan , Plengsa-Ard Chalermpol , Kaewbumrung Mongkol
Published: March 2024

Wind turbine blades are essential parts of wind energy systems and are frequently exposed to harsh environmental elements, such as strong winds, turbulence, and corrosive atmospheric elements. Over time, these circumstances may result in serious harm to blades, such as delamination and erosion, which may negatively affect the wind turbine’s functionality and durability. Accurate prediction of various types of damage is crucial to improve the toughness and lifespan of wind turbine blades and to maximize the overall effectiveness of wind energy systems. This article presents a novel computational fluid dynamics (CFDs)-based method for analyzing the distribution of wall shear stress on turbine blades, aimed at publicizing the yearly maintenance procedure. The investigation results from the CFDs, when compared with the current situation in a wind turbine farm in Thailand, confirmed that our wall shear stress modeling accurately predicted wind turbine damage. A maximum wall shear stress level higher than 5.00 Pa in the case of PA 90°, incoming air velocity 10.00 m/s, and 15 rpm was the main contribution to presenting the erosion and delamination from current drone inspection in wind turbine farms. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated the potential of using CFDs to predict wind turbine blade delamination and erosion, thereby significantly contributing to the development of specific and accurate yearly preventive maintenance. The proposed CFDs-based approach should serve as a sustainability tool for local human development, benefiting wind turbine engineers and operating technicians by providing them with a deeper understanding of the local flow conditions and wall shear stress distribution along wind turbine blades. This enables them to make informed decisions regarding blade design and maintenance.
Enhancing the MSPA Method to Incorporate Ecological Sensitivity: Construction of Ecological Security Patterns in Harbin City
Authors: Liu Yulin , Lu Yi , Xu Dawei , Zhou Herui , Zhang Shengnan
Published: March 2024

China’s urban development has reached a stage where green sustainable development must be considered. Constructing an ecological security pattern (ESP) can effectively contribute to maintaining sustainable development and ecological safety in a city. Harbin, a significant city in northeastern China, serves as the study area with a focus on its urban central district. To construct and optimize Harbin’s ESP, this study utilized ecological sensitivity assessment, MSPA (morphological spatial pattern analysis), the gravity model, landscape connectivity assessment, and the MCR (minimum cumulative resistance) model to identify source areas, corridors, and nodes. Research reveals that there are 23 ecological source areas within the study area, primarily situated along the Songhua River and in the mountain woodlands of the A-cheng District. This study identified 48 corridors, predominantly situated in the Daowai District, A-cheng District, and the eastern part of Xiangfang District. Among these, 8 are deemed significant ecological corridors, along with 10 important connecting corridors. We propose the structure of ecological security pattern optimization, referred to as the “two axes, two belts, and four areas”, and present corresponding ecological management recommendations. The analytical framework provides a valuable method for constructing ecological security patterns and selecting source areas at the regional scale in Harbin City, particularly in complex plain urban areas.
Site Selection of Medical Waste Disposal Facilities Using the Interval-Valued Neutrosophic Fuzzy EDAS Method: The Case Study of Istanbul
Authors: Samastı Mesut , Türkan Yusuf Sait , Güler Mustafa , Ciner Mirac Nur , Namlı Ersin
Published: March 2024

In recent years, as a result of the increasing demand for health services, medical waste (MW) generated from health facilities has increased significantly. Problems that threaten the environment and public health may arise as a result of inadequate medical waste management (MWM), especially in densely populated metropolitan areas. Therefore, it is very important that the disposal process of waste is carried out in a way that minimizes harm to human health and the environment. MW disposal site selection is among the most important decisions that local governments make. These decisions have many conflicting and similar criteria and alternatives. However, decision-makers may experience significant uncertainty when evaluating the alternatives. This study adopts the interval-valued neutrosophic (IVN) fuzzy EDAS method for the evaluation of MW disposal facility siting alternatives in Istanbul. This approach is used to evaluate potential sites based on a comprehensive, hierarchical criteria framework designed to address data uncertainty and inconsistency common in multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) scenarios. Within the scope of the study, six main criteria (distance settlement area, social acceptance, costs, environmental impacts, infrastructure facilities, and disaster and emergency) and nineteen sub-criteria are meticulously analyzed. Considering the geographical location and dense urban texture of Istanbul, the study emphasizes the criteria related to distance to residential areas, logistics costs, and potential disaster risks. Among the identified criteria, land costs, topographical features, proximity to landfills, and distance to high-voltage lines are emphasized as the least important criteria. This study, which evaluated various alternatives, identified Pendik, located on the Anatolian side of Istanbul, as the most suitable site for MW disposal due to its minimal risk. The study also compares the four main alternatives and highlights their relative strengths and weaknesses.
Agro-Food Supply Chains in Peri-Urban Agricultural Areas: Do They Contribute to Preserve Local Biodiversity? The Case of Baix Llobregat Agrarian Park
Authors: Marín Jon , Garnatje Teresa , Vallès Joan
Published: March 2024

Peri-urban regions, especially in the Mediterranean, face challenges like farmland loss due to urban pressure. This study emphasizes retail stores as strategic focal points for evaluating societal, economic, and production systems. It hypothesizes that analyzing retail stores in agricultural areas provides insights into traded and cultivated agrobiodiversity. Using the Baix Llobregat Agrarian Park (Catalonia, NE Iberian Peninsula) as a case study, this research examines different food retailers from short and conventional food supply chains. Results indicate variations in plant diversity, origin, and seasonality among different retail stores. Farmers’ markets exhibit higher intraspecific diversity, contributing to local agrobiodiversity conservation. This study observes temporal changes in farmers’ markets, highlighting shifts influenced by socioeconomic factors and climate change perceptions. Finally, this research underscores certain strategies to promote sustainable peri-urban local food systems and preserve agrobiodiversity, offering valuable insights into food supply chain dynamics in peri-urban agricultural regions.
Soil Ecosystem Functioning through Interactions of Nematodes and Fungi Trichoderma sp.
Authors: Pinto Ana Gašparović , Kos Tomislav , Puškarić Josipa , Vrandečić Karolina , Benković-Lačić Teuta , Brmež Mirjana
Published: March 2024

In this review, an overview was given of the mutual interactions between nematodes and fungi of the genus Trichoderma sp. due to the potential of these fungi to protect plant roots from plant-parasitic nematodes on the one hand and the influence of nematodes (fungivores) on the efficacy of the fungus on the other. In addition, an overview of the advantages of Trichoderma sp. for agricultural production was given. The basis of sustainable agricultural production is the healthy functioning of the soil ecosystem. The diversity of organisms—bacteria, protozoa, algae, metazoans (nematodes) and fungi—improves the quality and performance of the soil by maintaining biological productivity. Root exudates in the rhizosphere support microbial communities that play a key role in regulating the dynamics of organic matter decomposition and the availability of plant nutrients. The microbial activity of organisms in the soil is interconnected and interacts to form a soil food web that reflects the condition, function and health of the soil. The energy in food webs flows through trophic chains of consumers, which are divided into energy channels. Root, bacterial and fungal channels increase soil biomass, carbon (C) and energy flow through the soil food web. The structure of the nematode community is an effective tool for the biological assessment of soil quality. This is due to a number of characteristics that nematodes have, including the following: a great diversity of species, the possibility of subdivision according to different criteria such as trophic groups and c-p groups, the duration of reproduction, the ease of sampling, the identification of genera and preservation, etc. Nematodes are involved in various ecological functions in the soil, of which the interaction between them and fungi is based on antagonism or mutualism, which is the basis for a better understanding of their impact on the ecosystem. Fungi of the genus Trichoderma sp. are successful colonizers of all habitats, secondary opportunists and fast growing.
The Effect of Supply Chain Sustainability Practices on Romanian SME Performance
Authors: Türkeș Mirela Cătălina , Bănacu Cristian-Silviu , Stoenică Laurențiu
Published: March 2024

The paper uniquely assesses the relationship between the main elements of the sustainability of the supply chain and the performance of Romanian enterprises. To identify dimensions of supply chain sustainability, a sample survey was conducted on a structured questionnaire basis among a sample of 385 Romanian enterprises represented by supply chain managers and practitioners. The hypothesis testing and the validation of the proposed construct model were achieved by using the modeling of the equation with the smallest partial squares (SEM-PLS) and multigroup analysis (PLS-MGA). The results suggest a positive and significant relationship between supply chain sustainability practices and business performance. This study provides original evidence to Romanian managers that business performance can be maximized by focusing on increasing the economic, social, and environmental sustainability of the supply chain. The results of this quantitative marketing research add to the existing literature and have far-reaching theoretical and practical implications for enterprises in the Romanian economy.
A Deep-Learning-Based System for Pig Posture Classification: Enhancing Sustainable Smart Pigsty Management
Authors: Jeon Chanhui , Kim Haram , Kim Dongsoo
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a deep-learning-based system for classifying pig postures, aiming to improve the management of sustainable smart pigsties. The classification of pig postures is a crucial concern for researchers investigating pigsty environments and for on-site pigsty managers. To address this issue, we developed a comprehensive system framework for pig posture classification within a pigsty. We collected image datasets from an open data sharing site operated by a public organization and systematically conducted the following steps: object detection, data labeling, image preprocessing, model development, and training. These processes were carried out using the acquired datasets to ensure comprehensive and effective training for our pig posture classification system. Subsequently, we analyzed and discussed the classification results using techniques such as Grad-CAM. As a result of visual analysis through Grad-CAM, it is possible to identify image features when posture is correctly classified or misclassified in a pig image. By referring to these results, it is expected that the accuracy of pig posture classification can be further improved. Through this analysis and discussion, we can identify which features of pig postures in images need to be emphasized to improve the accuracy of pig posture classification. The findings of this study are anticipated to significantly improve the accuracy of pig posture classification. In practical applications, the proposed pig posture classification system holds the potential to promptly detect abnormal situations in pigsties, leading to prompt responses. Ultimately, this can greatly contribute to increased productivity in pigsty operations, fostering efficiency enhancements in pigsty management.
Influence of Calculation Parameters on the Slope Stability of the Historical Rasos Cemetery in Vilnius (Lithuania)
Authors: Chmielewski Ryszard , Bąk Aleksandra , Muzolf Paweł , Sobczyk Kamil
Published: March 2024

Many objects of cultural and religious importance are located on naturally or artificially shaped hills. In such cases, the stability of the slopes determines both the safety of users and the facilities themselves and thus the preservation of cultural heritage. The analysis of the slope stability requires the assessment of the soil shear strength, defined as the ratio of resistance forces to driving forces. An important issue in the slope stability analysis is the proper determination of soil mechanical parameters, including their changes due to soil moisture. This paper presents an assessment of the slope stability of the Rasos Cemetery in Vilnius (Lithuania), where, due to a partial slope sliding, some of the tombstones were destroyed by being covered with soil. An analysis of the slope stability (factor of safety) was performed for two cross-sections using six calculation schemes. In each of them, calculations were carried out for three groups of soil parameters and for four design approaches (characteristic values, DA2, DA3a, and DA3b in accordance with the geotechnical standard applicable in the European Union—Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design). For the calculation approach (DA3a) for different groups of soil parameters, the values of the slope stability factors of safety were practically below 1.0. If the value of the factor of safety is less than 1.0, the slope is unstable. In the range of values 1.0–1.3, there is a serious risk of slope instability, and only when the factor of safety value reaches above 1.3 is the slope classified as stable. The comparison of the slope stability factors obtained with different design approaches (in relation to the DA3a) shows that the most unfavorable stability factor is approximately 43% lower than the result obtained from the characteristic values, approximately 21% lower than the result obtained using the DA2 design approach, and approximately 24% lower than the result obtained using the DA3b design approach. The analytical and numerical method (GEO5) analysis showed that, regardless of the adopted calculation approach, the required slope stability factor was not obtained. The article shows that selecting the correct geological cross-section to determine the critical slope slip surface and adopting the relevant design approach is crucial for slope sustainability. Based on the analysis, a proprietary solution for the construction work was proposed, which will ensure both the full stability of the slope and the safety of all graves and consequently landslide disaster prevention.
Optimal Location of Solar Photovoltaic Plants Using Geographic Information Systems and Multi-Criteria Analysis
Authors: de Luis-Ruiz Julio Manuel , Salas-Menocal Benito Ramiro , Pereda-García Raúl , Pérez-Álvarez Rubén , Sedano-Cibrián Javier , Ruiz-Fernández Carolina
Published: March 2024

Nowadays, solar energy is considered to be one of the most developed renewable energy sources, and its production capacity has increased in recent years. To optimize yields and production, the correct selection of the location of these plants is essential. This research develops a methodological proposal that allows for detecting and evaluating the most appropriate places to implement solar photovoltaic plants almost automatically through GIS tools. A multi-criteria analysis is proposed to analyze large extensions of land with ten duly weighted criteria that cover the energy and territorial requirements that any installation must meet. The method assigns each site a location coefficient that reflects the weighting of the chosen criteria so that the value ordered from highest to lowest reflects the best to the worst location. Unlike other research works that can be considered similar, the methodological proposal is much more consistent than traditional alternatives as it uses a multi-criteria analysis and a weighting mechanism that is also statistically consistent, objective, and based on logical criteria. This innovative methodology is applied to Cantabria (north of Spain), although it could be used for other contexts.
Bibliometric Analysis of Financial and Economic Implications during the COVID-19 Pandemic Crisis
Authors: Obrenovic Bojan , Oblakovic Goran , Asa Asa Romeo
Published: March 2024

A bibliometric study was performed to explore the financial and economic implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. The SCOPUS database was sourced, and VOSviewer version 1.6.20 was used to generate visualizations. Articles published between 2020 and 2024 were targeted, resulting in 1257 papers used in the analysis. The comprehensive bibliometric analysis conducted in this paper was guided by the keywords “COVID-19”, “pandemic”, “financial crisis”, “financial impact”, and “economic impact”, which revealed critical insights that contribute to the body of knowledge on the financial and economic implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. The outputs belong to topical areas of economics, finance, business, and management. Keyword mapping and clustering methods were employed to analyze links between the financial crisis, economic impact, and COVID-19 themes. A co-occurrence network analysis identified key thematic clusters, including economic and financial analysis; COVID-19 research and impact; social, environmental, and corporate responsibility; regional studies and disease-related research; and economic challenges and policy responses. This study reveals an annual publication decline of 62.94% and an average citation rate of 20.13 per document. The findings suggest an abundance of global collaboration networks and authorships. This study contributes to a better understanding of the multifaceted financial and economic impact of the pandemic from a bibliometric perspective, offering a foundation for future research and the application of financial strategies and effective crisis management.
Understanding and Enhancing Food Conservation Behaviors and Operations
Authors: Gao Fengni , Nketiah Emmanuel , Shi Victor
Published: March 2024

This study explores the dynamics of food conservation behaviors and operations, shifting the lens from the prevalent narrative of food waste reduction to a marketing perspective that emphasizes consumer engagement in sustainable operations. Amidst the rapid urban transformation and economic progress of many countries, this research examines factors influencing individual behaviors toward responsible food operations. It aims to delineate the motivational drivers and deterrents affecting residents’ engagement in food conservation and operations, utilizing an adapted framework based on the theory of planned behavior. We employ partial least squares structural equation modeling to analyze responses from 390 residents. We find that perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and attitudes significantly enhance intentions to conserve food. Moreover, environmental concerns amplify both attitudes and perceived behavioral control, while green marketing communications and knowledge elevate attitudes, environmental mindfulness, and conservation actions. A connection to nature is substantiated as a reinforcing factor for pro-environmental attitudes and operations. Notably, attitudes are identified as a critical mediator among the examined constructs. This investigation enriches sustainability scholarship by introducing a positive behavior-focused approach, advancing the discourse on sustainable operations. It offers actionable insights for market-driven interventions, policy-making (such as China’s lastest national policies on food security and rural region revitalization in 2024), and educational endeavors to mitigate food wastage and reinforce food supply chain resilience globally.
Does the Rubber Meet the Road? Assessing the Potential of Devulcanization Technologies for the Innovation of Tire Rubber Recycling
Authors: Roetman Eric , Joustra Jelle , Heideman Geert , Balkenende Ruud
Published: March 2024

Innovation is crucial to meet the circular economy goals for tire recycling. Devulcanization, an innovative recycling method of reprocessing tire rubber, offers a pathway towards achieving circular economy objectives. While previous research on devulcanization has primarily focused on technical aspects, this study shifts the focus towards identifying opportunities and barriers for innovation through devulcanization. This research utilizes the Technological Innovation System framework as a basis to analyze the dynamics of innovation within value chains and innovation networks. Across Europe, 36 organizations were identified that develop and utilize devulcanization to transform rubber from end-of-life tires into a valuable resource for new rubber products. In this study, a semi-structured in-depth interview approach was applied to interview 12 organizations that have developed or utilize technologies for the devulcanization of tire rubber. It was found that the development of various devulcanization approaches for diverse types of products has created opportunities for upscaling. To capitalize on these opportunities, organizations need to collaborate throughout the entire value chain of tire production and recycling. Achieving this collaboration requires interventions across the industry.
Mechanism Analysis and Experimental Research on Leaching Zn from Zinc Oxide Dust with an Ultrasound-Enhanced NH3-NH4Cl-H2O System
Authors: Ma Aiyuan , Li Jinjing , Chang Jun , Zheng Xuemei
Published: March 2024

Zinc oxide dust (ZOD) is an industrial solid waste produced in the production process of wet smelting Zn, with large output and great pollution to the environment. The recycling of metallurgical solid waste such as zinc oxide dust is very important to achieve the sustainable development of the circular economy. An experimental study of zinc (Zn) leaching from zinc oxide dust using an ultrasound-enhanced ammonia–ammonium chloride system was performed. The effects of ultrasonic power, leaching time, total ammonia concentration, and other factors on the leaching rate of zinc from zinc oxide dust were investigated. The results revealed that the leaching rate of Zn reached up to 80.70% under the condition of ultrasound power of 1000 W, reaction time of 15 min, total ammonia concentration of 6 mol/L, [NH3]:[NH4+] of 1:1, L/S of 5:1, temperature of 45 °C, and stirring speed of 100 r/min. The conventional leaching was conducted under similar conditions, except that the time was controlled to 40 min and the zinc leaching rate was 71.15%. The leaching rate of Zn in the ultrasound condition was improved by 9.55% compared with that in the conventional leaching process. XRD, laser particle size, and SEM-EDS analyses were conducted to study the leaching residues of ZOD. The analysis results showed that in the ultrasound condition, the largest leaching rate of soluble ZnO phases was achieved after 15 min of leaching. Under the ammoniacal system, it was difficult to leach ZnFe2O4, Zn2SiO4, and ZnS phases, which partly accounted for the low zinc leaching rate. Additionally, through ultrasound-enhanced treatment, the ZnO particles encapsulated in ZOD particles were broken into smaller sizes and exposed to the leaching solution. Thus, the leaching rate of Zn was improved. The experimental results show that ultrasound can tremendously improve the effect of Zn extraction from ZOD, shorten reaction time, and help reduce energy consumption and environmental pollution, making it a promising application in the treatment of secondary Zn resources.
The Influence of SnO2 and Noble Metals on the Properties of TiO2 for Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Goncearenco Evghenii , Morjan Iuliana P. , Fleaca Claudiu , Dutu Elena , Criveanu Anca , Viespe Cristian , Galca Aurelian Catalin , Maraloiu Adrian Valentin , Stan Miruna S. , Fort Carmen Ioana , Scarisoreanu Monica
Published: March 2024

In order to find solutions to current worldwide environmental problems, it is crucial to develop sustainable nanomaterials, ideally with multifunctional properties. Considering this, novel TiO2-SnO2@NMs (noble metals: Au and Ag) composites, for use as sustainable nanomaterials, were successfully prepared via a two-step synthesis process consisting of laser pyrolysis followed by the chemical impregnation of the collected materials with noble metals. The addition of SnO2 favors the transformation of TiO2 from a mixture with a majority Anatase phase to one with a Rutile phase majority. With consideration for their level of environmental toxicity, the features of the synthesized nanomaterials were structurally, morphologically, and optically described and assessed for environmental protection applications as gas sensors and photocatalysts. In the case of the Surface Acoustic Wave sensor, based on a pure TiO2 nanopowder, a notable difference in the frequency shift was detected in comparison to the other examined sensors. All sensors responded to the CH4 concentrations tested (0.02–0.1%). On the other hand, when methyl orange was photodegraded under visible light, the results obtained using NMs for decoration revealed that the photocatalytic activity of TiO2-SnO2@NMs was significantly improved compared to the TiO2-SnO2 binary composite, which already has an enhanced photocatalytic activity, compared to pure TiO2. Overall, this work produces nanoparticles that exhibit better sensory and photocatalytic features, as well as higher levels of biocompatibility with skin cells, for use as eco-friendly nanomaterials for a sustainable future.
Evaluation of the Carbon Footprint of Wooden Glamping Structures by Life Cycle Assessment
Authors: Sebestyén Tihamér Tibor
Published: March 2024

Despite the increasing popularity of glamping structures, empirical studies often overlook the carbon impact of wood in these constructions, creating a significant research gap. Understanding the net carbon effect of wood in glamping structures is crucial for informing sustainable building practices. This paper aims to quantitatively compare the net carbon impact of wood in glamping structures, filling a notable gap in the current research literature. The investigation undertakes a thorough evaluation employing a life cycle methodology, appraising the emissions linked with the complete glamping life span. Seven Romanian companies are examined vertically within the glamping production chain and horizontally across the supply value chain. The investigation unveils a notable discovery: the integration of wood within glamping yields considerable carbon sequestration, wherein the wood employed sequesters 36.83 metric tons of CO2 per glamping unit. This surpasses the carbon emissions entailed throughout the entirety of the glamping life cycle, ranging from 9.97 to 11.72 metric tons of carbon. Remarkably, a single wood-incorporated glamping structure has the capacity to sequester approximately 25 metric tons of carbon within a span of 50 years. In summary, the investigation underscores the capacity of responsibly sourced timber to function as a carbon reservoir, proficiently counterbalancing emissions across the entirety of the construction life cycle. The findings underscore the importance of sustainably sourced wood in achieving carbon neutrality and provide valuable insights for promoting sustainable building practices. This methodology has broad applicability beyond glamping structures, holding potential for replication and scalability across various sectors and regions, thereby contributing to global efforts towards mitigating climate change and fostering positive environmental change.
A Hybrid Modeling Approach for Estimating the Exposure to Organophosphate Pesticide Drift in Sangamon County, Illinois
Authors: El Afandi Gamal , Ismael Hossam , Fall Souleymane
Published: March 2024

According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), organophosphate pesticides are responsible for approximately 300,000 deaths worldwide. In the United States, documented cases of organophosphate pesticide exposure number around 8000, with a small number of fatalities occurring annually. The health risks associated with these pesticides affect those living in agricultural areas, as well as farmers and pesticide applicators. Despite the intervention of government agencies in Illinois to regulate pesticide application, studies have shown that these pesticides remain present in the soil, crops, water, and air. Urban-agricultural interface communities around Sangamon County exhibit significant levels of air pollution due to pesticide spray drift, although the lack of reliable pesticide data poses a challenge in estimating the extent of the problem. Therefore, developing novel strategies to reduce the impact of pesticides on environmental health is a critical and effective research area. Currently, new, dependable models and methods are being developed to calculate spray drift and mitigate its effects. The primary objective of this study was to investigate whether and to what extent organophosphate pesticide spray drifts into urban-agricultural interface communities in Sangamon County, Illinois. To achieve this, the current study employed an integrated approach that combined the capabilities of the HYSPLIT and AgDRIFT models to evaluate organophosphate pesticide spray drifting at both the field- and county-level scales. In the absence of precise pesticide quantity data, this novel approach allowed for field simulations within identified exposure drift zones. The preliminary findings indicate that all residential areas close to agricultural areas are at risk of pesticide drift, as buffer zones do not exceed 25 m. Furthermore, of the 34 water bodies (rivers, lakes, streams, and drains) in the 30,200-acre study region, 12 are within the high-drift zone for pesticide spray drift from corn and soybean fields. Finally, the potential for organophosphate pesticide drift was present in approximately 106 buildings, covering an area of 10,300 km2.
Purchasing Intention of Products with Sustainable Packaging
Authors: Petkowicz Aline Carla , Pelegrini Tatiane , Bodah Brian William , Rotini Carlos Daniel , Moro Leila Dal , Neckel Alcindo , Spanhol Caroline Pauletto , Araújo Elton Gean , Pauli Jandir , Mores Giana de Vargas
Published: March 2024

This study investigates Brazilian consumers’ purchase intentions for sustainably packaged products, applying the theory of planned behavior enhanced with environmental concern, knowledge, willingness to pay more, and trust. Data were collected from 509 participants via an online questionnaire, using convenience sampling. The questionnaire, based on previously validated scales, examined attitudes toward purchasing, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, environmental variables, and purchase intentions. Descriptive analysis pointed out the prominence of environmental concern, positive purchasing attitudes, and purchase intentions. Principal component analysis reorganized variables into seven components, while cluster analysis identified three distinct consumer profiles: those prioritizing cost and information, environmentally conscious young consumers, and individuals influenced by social factors, with a strong sense of consumption control. The study reveals a widespread concern for the environment among respondents, highlighting the need for societal and political advancements in support of sustainable consumption practices.
Do Biospheric Values Moderate the Impact of Information Appeals on Pro-Environmental Behavioral Intentions?
Authors: Anicker Nora , Bamberg Sebastian , Pütz Peter , Bohner Gerd
Published: March 2024

Information-based interventions are still the most commonly used intervention approach to motivate people to engage in pro-environmental behaviors. However, recently, researchers assume that the effectiveness of such information depends on the extent to which recipients endorse biospheric values (the so-called ‘values-as-moderator’ hypothesis). If this hypothesis is correct, it would have important implications for the use of information appeals: they could not motivate the entire population, but only those population groups with high biospheric values. Two experimental studies using case vignettes were conducted to investigate the effects of biospheric values prioritization, an informational and a socio-normative appeal, as well as the interaction between biospheric values and those two interventions on two different pro-environmental behavioral intentions: everyday ‘low-cost’ behavior of purchasing (organic) coffee (Study 1) and the more difficult ‘high-cost’ behavior of adopting a heating style that prevents rebound effects (Study 2). In Study 1 we additionally examined the influence of the degree of privacy in which a behavior takes place on the purchase intention. Both studies were conducted as online survey studies in Germany. A total of 800 participants took part in each study. We used moderated logistic regression models to examine the main and interaction effects of biospheric values and the two different appeals on participants’ pro-environmental behavioral intentions. Both studies showed a significant main effect of the informational appeal on pro-environmental behavioral intentions. In Study 1, but not in Study 2, the main effect of the socio-normative appeal was also significant, especially if the purchase decision took place in a public space. However, no consistent evidence of a meaningful effect of biospheric values was found: the main effect of biospheric values was statistically significant only in Study 1, and the postulated interactions between biospheric values and interventions were not statistically significant in either study. Further theoretical and practical implications of the reported results are discussed.
SO2 Emissions Reduction Effect of China’s Pollution Levy Standard Adjustment: A Short-Term and Long-Term Analysis
Authors: Lv Xiaofeng , Wang Zongfang , Zhou Wei
Published: March 2024

As one key environmental regulation measure, China’s pollution levy policy has been widely discussed; however, existing research has solely concentrated on the emissions reduction effect of pollution levy policies in the short term but has ignored long-term effectiveness, which may cause research bias. Thus, taking pollution levy standard adjustments as the core independent variable, this study builds firm-level pollution data and proves that the pollution levy policy is effective both in the short and long term. Furthermore, it demonstrates that the emissions reduction effect is achieved mainly by decreasing production and increasing the removal of sulfur dioxide (SO2). In addition, it is uncovered that the emissions reduction effect is mainly a result of two processes—the first is the greater use of clean energy and higher energy efficiency that can cause a decrease in the production of SO2, and the second is the utilization efficiency of waste gas treatment facilities, which can increase the removal of SO2.
A Framework for Analyzing Co-Creation Value Chain Mechanisms in Community-Based Approaches: A Literature Review
Authors: Ohnishi Satoshi , Osako Masahiro , Nakamura Shogo , Togawa Takuya , Kawai Kosuke , Suzuki Kaoru , Yoshida Aya , Gomi Kei , Tsuji Takashi
Published: March 2024

Community co-creation is critical for tackling complex challenges and building a sustainable future, and necessitates collaboration between public and private sectors to co-create value chains. This paper highlights existing frameworks and proposes a heuristic approach that integrates Collective Impact (CI), Social Impact Assessment (SIA), and Community Capital (CC). Through a narrative review, the paper explores how SIA and CC can empower CI by aligning objective data with community context, ensuring solutions that resonate with local needs, promoting equity by fostering inclusive participation and understanding diverse perspectives, and revealing valuable resources within communities and leveraging their strengths for sustainable development. Although the paper delves into roles and responsibilities for each sector involved in co-creation, it acknowledges limitations in areas such as leadership-capacity building for effective collaboration and long-term commitment, impact measurement methodologies that capture nuanced social change over time, and inclusion of diverse participation methods to ensure all voices are heard and represented. By addressing these limitations, the paper calls for further research and development to strengthen community-driven social change.
Optimization and Renovation Design of Indoor Thermal Environment in Traditional Houses in Northeast Sichuan (China)—A Case Study of a Three-Section Courtyard House
Authors: Hou Chaoping , Hu Wentao , Jiang Yuefan , Gao Weijun
Published: March 2024

The three-section courtyard is the most representative traditional residence in the traditional villages in northeast Sichuan. As a unique cultural landscape, it carries the local historical style and cultural connotation. However, the high temperature weather in summer leads to a poor thermal environment in traditional residential buildings, which cannot meet the needs of building users for human thermal comfort, and the wall is the most critical factor affecting the indoor thermal environment. Therefore, to optimise the indoor thermal environment of traditional residential buildings, this study designed four groups of wall renovation schemes according to the original traditional residential buildings and modern technology, and simulated and verified the feasibility of the building renovation schemes by using Design Builder. Then, the four groups of wall renovation schemes were compared and tested based on the Design Builder. Comparative results of the thermal-performance evaluation index revealed that compared with Case 1 and Case 2, the building refrigeration energy consumption of Case 3 in the hottest week was the least, only 427.7 kW·h, which indicates that the external wall renovation scheme using aerated concrete blocks had the best thermal insulation and energy-saving effects. The cooling energy consumption of Case 4 in the hottest week was 422 kW·h, which was 4.3 kW·h less than that of Case 3, indicating that the wall renovation scheme with an air inter-layer had better thermal insulation and energy-saving effects. The refrigeration energy consumption of Case 7 in the hottest week was only 409.8 kW·h, which was 4.19% lower than Case 3 (without insulation material), indicating that the scheme of selecting central insulation and extruded polystyrene board (XPS) had better thermal insulation and energy-saving effects in practical projects. In summary, the above transformation scheme not only improves the indoor thermal environment of traditional residential buildings, but also provides guidance for architectural designers on green, energy-saving and sustainable design.
Value-Chain Finance in Greek Agriculture
Authors: Boufounou Paraskevi , Lathiras Nikolaos , Toudas Kanellos , Malesios Chrisovalantis
Published: March 2024

The primary sector is particularly important in Greece, especially considering the country’s current financial crisis, which has lasted since 2010. In an innovative way, this paper investigates the role of Contractual Agriculture as a tool for financing farming production costs in Greece. This study presents the findings of a survey of 222 producers, almost half of whom had used the Contractual Agriculture financing tool, utilizing descriptive statistical analysis via correlation analysis, statistical tests and visual plots such as bar charts. The main findings are that financed farmers are more positive than non-financed farmers about the importance and contribution of the value-chain finance of Contractual Agriculture in covering the cost of production. It ensures an uninterrupted supply of agricultural inputs, improves the possibility of negotiating the purchase price of pesticides and achieves more satisfactory bank terms and conditions for agricultural product financing, as well as the possibility of negotiating the purchase price of pesticides. Finally, in line with previous research, this study found that younger age groups are more hesitant to use this innovative financial tool, and producers with a higher level of education are more likely to use it. This study delves into the advantages and disadvantages for banks, farmers and commercial or manufacturing enterprises involved in such contracts, and its findings offer a comprehensive understanding of the practical implications for participants in Contractual Agriculture and for regulators. Hence, it demonstrates potential areas for improvement in the implementation of Contractual Agriculture in Greece, which could contribute to the growth of the Greek primary sector.
PAFNet: Pillar Attention Fusion Network for Vehicle–Infrastructure Cooperative Target Detection Using LiDAR
Authors: Wang Luyang , Lan Jinhui , Li Min
Published: March 2024

With the development of autonomous driving, consensus is gradually forming around vehicle–infrastructure cooperative (VIC) autonomous driving. The VIC environment-sensing system uses roadside sensors in collaboration with automotive sensors to capture traffic target information symmetrically from both the roadside and the vehicle, thus extending the perception capabilities of autonomous driving vehicles. However, the current target detection accuracy for feature fusion based on roadside LiDAR and automotive LiDAR is relatively low, making it difficult to satisfy the sensing requirements of autonomous vehicles. This paper proposes PAFNet, a VIC pillar attention fusion network for target detection, aimed at improving LiDAR target detection accuracy under feature fusion. The proposed spatial and temporal cooperative fusion preprocessing method ensures the accuracy of the fused features through frame matching and coordinate transformation of the point cloud. In addition, this paper introduces the first anchor-free method for 3D target detection for VIC feature fusion, using a centroid-based approach for target detection. In the feature fusion stage, we propose the grid attention feature fusion method. This method uses the spatial feature attention mechanism to fuse the roadside and vehicle-side features. The experiment on the DAIR-V2X-C dataset shows that PAFNet achieved a 6.92% higher detection accuracy in 3D target detection than FFNet in urban scenes.
An Introduction to Single-Valued Neutrosophic Primal Theory
Authors: Alsharari Fahad , Alohali Hanan , Saber Yaser , Smarandache Florentin
Published: March 2024

This article explores the interconnections among the single-valued neutrosophic grill, single-valued neutrosophic primal and their stratification, uncovering their fundamental characteristics and correlated findings. By introducing the notion of a single-valued neutrosophic primal, a broader framework including the fuzzy primal and intuitionistic fuzzy primal is established. Additionally, the concept of a single-valued neutrosophic open local function for a single-valued neutrosophic topological space is presented. We introduce an operator based on a single-valued neutrosophic primal, illustrating that the single-valued neutrosophic primal topology is finer than the single-valued neutrosophic topology. Lastly, the concept of single-valued neutrosophic open compatibility between the single-valued neutrosophic primal and single-valued neutrosophic topologies is introduced, along with the establishment of several equivalent conditions related to this notion.
Optimal System, Symmetry Reductions and Exact Solutions of the (2 + 1)-Dimensional Seventh-Order Caudrey–Dodd–Gibbon–KP Equation
Authors: Qin Mengyao , Wang Yunhu , Yuen Manwai
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the (2+1)-dimensional seventh-order Caudrey–Dodd–Gibbon–KP equation is investigated through the Lie group method. The Lie algebra of infinitesimal symmetries, commutative and adjoint tables, and one-dimensional optimal systems is presented. Then, the seventh-order Caudrey–Dodd–Gibbon–KP equation is reduced to nine types of (1+1)-dimensional equations with the help of symmetry subalgebras. Finally, the unified algebra method is used to obtain the soliton solutions, trigonometric function solutions, and Jacobi elliptic function solutions of the seventh-order Caudrey–Dodd–Gibbon–KP equation.
FGeo-SSS: A Search-Based Symbolic Solver for Human-like Automated Geometric Reasoning
Authors: Zhang Xiaokai , Zhu Na , He Yiming , Zou Jia , Qin Cheng , Li Yang , Leng Tuo
Published: March 2024

Geometric problem solving (GPS) has always been a long-standing challenge in the fields of automated reasoning. Its problem representation and solution process embody rich symmetry. This paper is the second in a series of our works. Based on the Geometry Formalization Theory and the FormalGeo geometric formal system, we have developed the Formal Geometric Problem Solver (FGPS) in Python 3.10, which can serve as an interactive assistant or as an automated problem solver. FGPS is capable of executing geometric predicate logic and performing relational reasoning and algebraic computation, ultimately achieving readable, traceable, and verifiable automated solutions for geometric problems. We observed that symmetry phenomena exist at various levels within FGPS and utilized these symmetries to further refine the system’s design. FGPS employs symbols to represent geometric shapes and transforms various geometric patterns into a set of symbolic operation rules. This maintains symmetry in basic transformations, shape constructions, and the application of theorems. Moreover, we also have annotated the formalgeo7k dataset, which contains 6981 geometry problems with detailed formal language descriptions and solutions. Experiments on formalgeo7k validate the correctness and utility of the FGPS. The forward search method with random strategy achieved a 39.71% problem-solving success rate.
Efforts to Innovate Favouring the Absorption of Foreign Direct Investment So as to Achieve Beneficial Outcomes from Innovation
Authors: Sánchez-Sellero Pedro , Bataineh Mohammad Jamal
Published: March 2024

This piece of work provides new findings about the effects of interactions between efforts to innovate and foreign direct investment on the results of innovation in Spanish firms. Examples of beneficial outcomes would be patents, as well as new products and processes. In addition, consideration will be given to the innovation activities that can favour from foreign direct investment in such a way as to attain innovation objectives of this sort. The source of the information used is PITEC, the Spanish Panel for Technological Innovation, together with figures from DataInvex, which contains the official statistics on foreign investment and other trade figures, provided by the Spanish Ministry of Commerce. In this study, we use logistic regression models to explain the impacts that attempts to innovate have upon the absorption of the foreign direct investment to attain the innovation outcomes. R&D expenditures, external collaboration, and public funds for innovation favour the absorption of Foreign Direct Investment to achieve beneficial outcomes from the innovation.