bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refractive Index and Dispersion Measurement Principle with Polarization Change in Total Internal Reflection
Authors: Chang Jyun-Ping , Tsai Cheng-Mu , Weng Jun-Hong , Han Pin
Published: May 2024

Refractive index measurements have been an important task for a long time because that index plays an essential role in describing the optical properties of a material. Many methods have been developed to perform that task. Some of them use interferometry to achieve high precision. However, these configurations are complicated. Some measure the critical angle using simple structures, but their accuracy is unsatisfactory because it is difficult to judge the exact critical angle with intensity variations. Here, we propose several new schemes based on measuring the polarization change in the total internal reflection. The proposed method has the merits of simple structure and easy incident angle determination that gives the maximum phase change. Additionally, it is possible to find the material dispersion by measuring the wavelength dependence of the polarization ellipticity. Some useful formulas relating the refractive index to the maximum phase change are obtained. This work can provide valuable alternatives for refractive index measurement.
Research on the Correction Algorithm for Ozone Inversion in Differential Absorption Lidar
Authors: Li Leyong , Xie Chenbo , Ji Jie , Xing Kunming
Published: May 2024

Due to the complex and variable nature of the atmospheric conditions, traditional multi-wavelength differential absorption lidar (DIAL) methods often suffer from significant errors when inverting ozone concentrations. As the detection range increases, there is a higher demand for Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) in lidar signals. Based on this, the paper discusses the impact of different atmospheric factors on the accuracy of ozone concentration inversion. It also compares the advantages and disadvantages of the two-wavelength differential method and the three-wavelength dual-differential method under both noisy and noise-free conditions. Firstly, the errors caused by air molecular extinction, aerosol extinction, and backscatter terms in the inversion using the two-wavelength differential method were simulated. Secondly, the corrected inversion errors were obtained through direct correction and the introduction of a three-wavelength dual differential correction. Finally, addressing the issue of insufficient SNR in practical inversions, the inversion errors of the two correction methods were simulated by constructing lidar parameters and incorporating appropriate noise. The results indicate that the traditional two-wavelength differential algorithm is significantly affected by aerosols, making it more sensitive to aerosol concentration and structural changes. On the other hand, the three-wavelength dual differential algorithm requires a higher SNR in lidar signals. Therefore, we propose a novel strategy for inverting atmospheric ozone concentration, which prioritizes the use of the three-wavelength dual-differential method in regions with high SNR and high aerosol concentration. Conversely, the direct correction method utilizing the two-wavelength differential approach is used. This approach holds the potential for high-precision ozone concentration profile inversion under different atmospheric conditions.
The Impact of Pulse Shaping on Coherent Dynamics near a Conical Intersection
Authors: Deng Qici , Yu Junjie , Duan Hongguang , He Hongxing
Published: May 2024

Utilizing lasers to probe microscopic physical processes is a crucial tool in contemporary physics research, where the influence of laser properties on excitation processes is a focal point for scientists. In this study, we investigated the impact of laser pulses on the quantum yield of electronic wave packets near conical intersections (CIs). To do so, we employed the time non-local quantum master equation to calculate the time-evolution dynamics of wave packets on excited-state potential energy surfaces (PESs) and projected them onto effective reaction coordinates. The waveform of laser pulses was manipulated by varying the relative amplitude, pulse duration, and center wavelengths of Gaussian profiles. Our calculations revealed that the shape of laser pulses has a discernible impact on the dynamic evolution of electrons in excited states. Furthermore, our research indicated that different pulse profiles exhibit a maximum variation of 6.88% in the quantum yields of electronic wave packets near CIs. Our calculations demonstrate the influence of laser pulse waveform on excitation processes, providing a feasible method for exploring the coherent control of wave packets at conical intersections characterized by strong nonadiabatic coupling.
High-Performance NOON State from a Quantum Dot Single Photon for Supersensitive Optical Phase Measurement
Authors: Rao Zhixuan , Yang Jiawei , Liu Luyu , Yu Ying
Published: May 2024

We investigate the utilization of advanced single photons produced by quantum dots (QDs) in a microcavity for quantum metrology. Through the integration of lateral excitation and the Purcell effect in an Fabry–Perot microcavity, we realized single-photon emission with an extraction efficiency of 46.39%, high purity of 96.91%, and high indistinguishability of 98.32%. Our QD-generated single photons enabled the creation of high-quality NOON states (N = 2) for phase measurement, yielding an interference contrast of 79.79% and surpassing the standard quantum limit (SQL) with phase super-sensitivity. Our results underscore the immense potential of QD-derived single photons for propelling quantum metrology forward, facilitating enhanced precision measurements across diverse applications.
High-Power External Spatial Beam Combining of 7-Channel Quantum Cascade Lasers Emitting at ~8.5 μm
Authors: Dong Haibo , Zhou Xuyan , Hu Man , Ma Yuan , Qi Aiyi , Zhang Weiqiao , Zheng Wanhua
Published: May 2024

Based on the demand for high-power output, a spatial beam combining 7-channel quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) is demonstrated in this paper. A “2 + 3 + 2” stepped structure is designed to convert the seven beam spots into a circular arrangement. An aspherical lens with a large numerical aperture (NA) of 0.85 and a focal length of 1.873 mm is used in each single QCL for collimation, and seven reflectors are utilized in the 7-channel QCLs combined in the spatial beam. After combining the spatial beam, the maximum continuous output power of the system is 3.6 W, and the beam quality M2 is 5.59 in the fast axis and 8.3 in the slow axis, respectively.
Plasma Control: A Review of Developments and Applications of Plasma Medicine Control Mechanisms
Authors: Thomas Jonathan E. , Stapelmann Katharina
Published: May 2024

Cold atmospheric plasmas (CAPs) within recent years have shown great promise in the field of plasma medicine, encompassing a variety of treatments from wound healing to the treatment of cancerous tumors. For each subsequent treatment, a different application of CAPs has been postulated and attempted to best treat the target for the most effective results. These treatments have varied through the implementation of control parameters such as applied settings, electrode geometries, gas flow, and the duration of the treatment. However, with such an extensive number of variables to consider, scientists and engineers have sought a means to accurately control CAPs for the best-desired effects in medical applications. This paper seeks to investigate and characterize the historical precedent for the use of plasma control mechanisms within the field of plasma medicine. Current control strategies, plasma parameters, and control schemes will be extrapolated through recent developments and successes to gain better insight into the future of the field and the challenges that are still present in the overall implementation of such devices. Proposed approaches, such as data-driven machine learning, and the use of closed-loop feedback controls, will be showcased as the next steps toward application.
Extracting Physical Information from the Voigt Profile Using the Lambert W Function
Authors: Pain Jean-Christophe
Published: May 2024

Spectral line shapes are a key ingredient of hot-plasma opacity calculations. Since resorting to elaborate line-shape models remains prohibitive for intensive opacity calculations involving ions in different excitation states, with L, M, etc., shells are populated, and Voigt profiles often represent a reliable alternative. The corresponding profiles result from the convolution of a Gaussian function (for Doppler and sometimes ionic Stark broadening) and a Lorentzian function, for radiative decay (sometimes referred to as “natural” width) and electron-impact broadening. However, their far-wing behavior is incorrect, which can lead to an overestimation of the opacity. The main goal of the present work was to determine the energy (or frequency) at which the Lorentz wings of a Voigt profile intersect with the underlying Gaussian part of the profile. It turns out that such an energy cut-off, which provides us information about the dominant line-broadening process in a given energy range, can be expressed in terms of the Lambert W function, which finds many applications in physics. We also review a number of representations of the Voigt profile, with an emphasis on the pseudo-Voigt decomposition, which lends itself particularly well to cut-off determination.
Preparation of Waterborne Silicone-Modified Polyurethane Nanofibers and the Effect of Crosslinking Agents on Physical Properties
Authors: Li Fang , Weng Kai , Nakamura Asumi , Ono Keishiro , Tanaka Toshihisa , Noda Daisuke , Tanaka Masaki , Irifune Shinji , Sato Hiromasa
Published: May 2024

Silicone-modified polyurethane (PUSX) refers to the introduction of a silicone short chain into the polyurethane chain to make it have the dual properties of silicone and polyurethane (PU). It can be used in many fields, such as coatings, films, molding products, adhesives, and so on. The use of organic solvents to achieve the fiberization of silicone-modified polyurethane has been reported. However, it is challenging to achieve the fiberization of silicone-modified polyurethane based on an environmentally friendly water solvent. Herein, we report a simple and powerful strategy to fabricate environmentally friendly waterborne silicone-modified polyurethane nanofiber membranes through the addition of polyethylene glycol (PEG) with different molecular weights using electrospinning technology and in situ doping with three crosslinking agents with different functional groups (a polyoxazoline crosslinking agent, a polycarbodiimide crosslinking agent, and a polyisocyanate crosslinking agent) combined with various heating treatment conditions. The influence of PEG molecular weight on fiber formation was explored. The morphology, structure, water resistance, and mechanical properties were analyzed regarding the effect of the introduction of silicone into PU. The effects of the type and content of crosslinking agent on the morphology and physical properties of PUSX nanofiber membranes are discussed. These results show that the introduction of silicone can improve the water resistance and high temperature resistance of waterborne PU, and the addition of a crosslinking agent can further improve the water resistance of the sample, so that the sample can maintain good morphology after immersion. Crosslinking agents with different functional groups had different effects on the mechanical properties of PUSX nanofiber membranes due to different reactions. Among them, the oxazoline crosslinking agent had a significant effect on improving tensile strength, while the isocyanate crosslinking agent had a significant effect on improving the elongation at break. The PUSX nanofiber membrane prepared in this work did not use organic solvents that were harmful to humans and the environment, and it can be used in outdoor textiles, oil–water separation, medical health, and other fields.
Fully Aromatic Thermotropic Copolyesters Based on Vanillic, Hydroxybenzoic, and Hydroxybiphenylcarboxylic Acids
Authors: Mikhaylov Pavel A. , Zuev Kirill V. , Golubev Yaroslav V. , Kulichikhin Valery G.
Published: May 2024

Several series of new polymers were synthesized in this study: binary copolyesters of vanillic (VA) and 4′-hydroxybiphenyl-4-carboxylic (HBCA) acids, as well as ternary copolyesters additionally containing 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (HBA) and obtained via three different ways (in solution, in melt, and in solid state). The high values of logarithmic intrinsic viscosities and the insolubility of several samples proved their high molecular weights. It was found that the use of vanillic acid leads to the production of copolyesters with a relatively high glass transition temperature (~130 °C). Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the onset of weight loss temperatures of ternary copolyesters occurred at 330–350 °C, and the temperature of 5% mass loss was in the range of 390–410 °C. Two-stage thermal destruction was observed for all aromatic copolyesters of vanillic acid: decomposition began with VA units at 420–480 °C, and then the decomposition of more heat-resistant units took place above 520 °C. The copolyesters were thermotropic and exhibited a typical nematic type of liquid crystalline order. The mechanical characteristics of the copolyesters were similar to those of semi-aromatic copolyesters, but they were much lower than the typical values for fully aromatic thermotropic polymers. Thus, vanillic acid is a mesogenic monomer suitable for the synthesis of thermotropic fully aromatic and semi-aromatic copolyesters, but the processing temperature must not exceed 280 °C.
Surface Modification of Polyurethane Sponge with Zeolite and Zero-Valent Iron Promotes Short-Cut Nitrification
Authors: Liu Zexiang , Chen Yong , Xu Zhihong , Lei Jinxu , Lian Hua , Zhang Jian , Wang Zhiwei
Published: May 2024

Partial nitrification-Anammox (PN-A) is a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and efficient method for removing ammonia (NH4+-N) pollutants from water. However, the limited accumulation of nitrite (NO2−-N) represents a bottleneck in the development of PN-A processes. To address this issue, this study developed a composite carrier loaded with nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) and zeolite to enhance NO2−-N accumulation during short-cut nitrification. The modified composite carrier revealed electropositive, hydrophilicity, and surface roughness. These surface characteristics correlate positively with the carrier’s total biomass adsorption capacity; the initial adsorption of microorganisms by the composite carrier was increased by 8.7 times. Zeolite endows the carrier with an NH4+-N adsorption capacity of 4.50 mg/g carrier. The entropy-driven ammonia adsorption process creates an ammonia-rich microenvironment on the surface of the carrier, providing effective inhibition of nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB). In tests conducted with a moving bed biofilm reactor and a sequencing batch reactor, the composite carrier achieved a 95% NH4+-N removal efficiency, a NO2−-N accumulation efficiency of 78%, and a doubling in total nitrogen removal efficiency. This composite carrier enhances NO2−-N accumulation by preventing biomass washout, inhibiting NOB, and enriching PN-A functional bacteria, suggesting its potential for large-scale, stable PN-A applications.
RETRACTED: Anohova et al. The Dosidicus gigas Collagen for Scaffold Preparation and Cell Cultivation: Mechanical and Physicochemical Properties, Morphology, Composition and Cell Viability. Polymers 2023, 15, 1220
Authors: Anohova Veronika , Asyakina Lyudmila , Babich Olga , Dikaya Olga , Goikhman Aleksandr , Maksimova Ksenia , Grechkina Margarita , Korobenkov Maxim , Burkova Diana , Barannikov Aleksandr , Narikovich Anton , Chupakhin Evgeny , Snigirev Anatoly , Antipov Sergey
Published: May 2024

The Polymers Editorial Office retracts the article, “The Dosidicus gigas Collagen for Scaffold Preparation and Cell Cultivation: Mechanical and Physicochemical Properties, Morphology, Composition and Cell Viability” [...]
Spiritual Articulation and Conscientious Objection: Dynamics of Religious Diversity Management in Healthcare Practices in Argentina
Authors: Irrazábal Gabriela , Olmos Álvarez Ana Lucía
Published: May 2024

This article delves into the dynamics of managing religious diversity within the healthcare field in Argentina. It focuses on the articulations between health practices and individual belief systems among healthcare professionals and users. Applying a comparative approach based on qualitative interviews, we draw conclusions that underscore the imperative of acknowledging the sociocultural diversity within our societies. This recognition is fundamental in cultivating healthcare environments that not only respect users’ diverse worldviews but also healthcare professionals’ religious perspectives. Our findings advocate for incorporating religious diversity management principles in healthcare, emphasizing the development of inclusive approaches in dealing with health, illness, and wellbeing.
Historical Traceability, Diverse Development, and Spatial Construction of Religious Culture in Macau
Authors: Yin Jianqiang , Jia Mengyan
Published: May 2024

This study delves into the profound impact and significance of religious culture on the urban spatial configuration and local cultural essence of Macau amidst contemporary societal transformations. Emphasis is placed on how religious sites undergo functional reshaping and role redefinition within the urban fabric, thereby influencing residents’ quality of life, cityscape, and cultural identity. Adopting a spatial anthropological lens, this research employs a multitude of methodologies including city walking, participatory observation, and historical analysis to investigate the spatial configurations and developmental trajectories of Macau’s diverse religious sites and their immediate environments. The aim is to unearth the historical drivers behind the formation and dissemination of religious culture in Macau and to elucidate its intricate interactions with urban space. The findings reveal that religious sites in Macau not only physically delineate unique urban spatial patterns but also serve as vital hubs for fostering local cultural cohesion and weaving social networks through routine religious practices, community engagements, and a plethora of festive and ritualistic events. The pervasive influence of these sites extends across multiple domains of society, culture, and economy, playing a pivotal role in maintaining regional stability and harmony, enriching cultural diversity, and propelling socioeconomic transformation.
A Re-Examination of the Sources of Inspiration of Ethiopian Concentric Prayer Houses: Tracing an Architectural Concept from the Roman and Byzantine East to Islamic and Crusader Jerusalem to Solomonic Ethiopia
Authors: Kribus Bar
Published: May 2024

During the first millennium of Christian presence in Ethiopia (from the fourth century), church architecture was first in accordance with, and later partially based on, the basilica plan. Circa the early sixteenth century, a new and unique church plan appeared, circular, concentric, and with a square sanctuary, and became the dominant church plan in the northwestern Ethiopian Highlands. This church plan has been referred to in scholarship as an innovation, and its sources of inspiration have not yet been definitively established. In this article, I will argue that this plan is a culmination of a process with roots in the Late Antique and Medieval Holy Land, by which the concentric prayer house plan came to be associated with the Jerusalem Temple. This process transcended religious boundaries and is expressed in the religious architecture of three monotheistic religious traditions.
An Emerging Concentric Spatial Turn for Sustainable Systems: Beyond the Diametric Spatial Frame in Bacon’s View of Humans as Apart from and above the Natural World towards Being-Alongside Nature
Authors: Downes Paul
Published: May 2024

A spatial turn is increasingly being recognised across education, the humanities, and social sciences to critique Western Cartesian assumptions treating space as either empty or a diametric opposition bringing dualistic splits between reason/emotion and mind/body. Bacon’s vision of human subjugation of nature as a tool for human progress is examined as a diametric spatial projection, where humans are above and apart from nature, in a mirror-image inverted symmetry of above/below hierarchy and side-by-side assumed separation as diametric space. Building on an interdisciplinary synthesis between an aspect of the structural anthropology of Lévi-Strauss, De Beauvoir’s othering, and Bronfenbrenner’s social-ecological systems in psychology, allied with a Heideggerian critique of being as needing a mode of ‘being alongside the world’, a shift in experiential and conceptual space is proposed in this conceptual review article for education. This shift is towards a framework of concentric spatial systems of sustainability. Concentric relational spaces of assumed connection and relative openness and away from diametric spaces of splitting and closure have been developed recently for sustainability concerns regarding inclusion in education. This article goes further to interrogate systems of concentric relational space for belonging with and encountering the natural world for environmental sustainability.
The Museums of Geology and Paleontology as Geoeducational Learning Environments for Raising Climate Change Awareness
Authors: Kondyli Christina , Psychogiou Maria , Drinia Hara
Published: May 2024

Museums are called to respond to contemporary challenges and contribute to the formation of more progressive societies. One of the major challenges of our time is climate change and sustainability, and museums could construct cocreated narratives around climate and implement targeted actions for the audiences through their sensorial and affective experiences. More specifically, Geology and Paleontology museums are repositories of knowledge on geoheritage and geoconservation, recognized for their scientific, pedagogical, cultural, and recreational values. The educational potential of geological and paleontological exhibits could be used in informal education activities regarding the climate emergency and the need for sustainability. Taking the above into consideration, this study focuses on both the creation and the evaluation of an educational program for the Natural History Museum of Arsakeio Campus in Psychicko. According to our findings, students really enjoyed their experience in the Museum, gained knowledge regarding mass extinctions driven by climate change, and suggested ways to tackle the current problems and promote our planet’s sustainability.
Sustainability in Higher Education: The Impact of Justice and Relationships on Quality of Life and Well-Being
Authors: Kim Minseong , Albers Nancy D. , Knotts Tami L. , Kim Jihye
Published: May 2024

Undeniably, COVID-19 disrupted higher education. The concepts of traditional learning were challenged, online learning was thrust into the mainstream in colleges and universities, and the student population was unavoidably affected. It became apparent that maintaining the status quo that existed prior to the pandemic was not the path to the future sustainability of higher education. As higher education institutions began the long road to recovery, important challenges emerged due to increased demand for online learning and emotional health concerns for students. The current research collected data from online undergraduates at private and public universities in the United States for multivariate data analyses to examine controllable elements in the online learning environment that can enhance student quality of life and psychological well-being. These elements relate to perseverance for students and may promote the sustainability of higher education institutions. The focus of this study is to emphasize the importance of reinforcing online students’ emotional health as an important sustainability strategy for higher education. The findings confirm that higher education institutions can facilitate online students’ quality of life and psychological well-being by implementing elements into the classroom that create procedural and interpersonal justice, which enhances the formation of social and structural bonds.
Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Sustainable Inheritance Strategies of National Traditional Fine Arts Intangible Cultural Heritage in China
Authors: Cai Zhiqiang , Cai Keke , Huang Tao , Zhang Ge , Chen Ruixi
Published: May 2024

A total of 417 intangible cultural heritage objects (ICHOs) are intertwined with traditional Chinese art, showcasing China’s rich historical heritage and distinctive creative allure. However, ICHOs currently grapple with a significant succession quandary due to modernization endeavors and the impacts of globalization. Hence, this study scrutinizes the spatial distribution of ICHO projects and inheritors and examines methodologies for inheriting these 417 ICHOs, employing approaches such as the closest neighbor index, Moran’s I index, kernel density estimation, geographic concentration analysis, and imbalance index assessment. Research indicates that ICHOs exhibit a spatial aggregation pattern, yet there is no substantial spatial correlation observed in their distribution. The national distribution highlights two core density zones: Beijing and Shanghai. In China, ICHO programs display uneven distribution across various types, levels, regions, and cultural zones. Regarding the ethnic composition of projects and inheritors, ICHO projects predominantly focus on the Han ethnic group, with a scattering of minority representations. Minority ICHO projects and inheritors are concentrated in central and eastern areas, while Han ICHO projects and inheritors are concentrated in central and western regions. Among the 148 ICHO projects lacking inheritors, 203 have one inheritor, and only 66 have several inheritors. Shanghai serves as the core density zone for 269 ICHO projects with inheritors, while Beijing holds that status for 148 ICHO projects without inheritors. Out of the 148 ICHO projects lacking inheritors, 115 belong to the Han ethnic group, with 33 split among 16 different ethnic minorities, and 2 have no inheritors. These disparities underscore the uneven distribution of ICHO projects and the critical issue of inheritance. This study identified education, tourism, digital communication, incentivizing inheritors, and international cooperation as potential strategies for preserving ICHA. Moreover, a sustainable inheritance pathway integrating government, education, tourism, and media is imperative for the effective perpetuation of ICHOs’ legacy.
Sustainability Meets Information Technologies: Recent Developments and Future Perspectives
Authors: Valderrama Pineda Andrés Felipe , Skov Iva Ridjan , Dahy Hanaa , Jokar Arsanjani Jamal , Bonnevie Ida Maria , Børsen Tom , Teli Maurizio
Published: May 2024

This article aims at addressing the future challenges in Sustainability and Information Technology (IT) by reversing the order of the conventional prioritization of social objectives and technology, and placing the aim first and the means second. In engineering and technology, historically, there has been greater focus on first developing the technologies (means) and then determining their potential (aim), and how to tame their unintended consequences. The greatest challenge confronting humanity in the coming decades is sustainability. Therefore, the question is how can IT design, develop, and assist in maintaining the ambitious, albeit difficult to grasp, sustainability agenda? This discussion is pertinent in order to avoid research programs and academic curriculum which dive into the intricacies of IT without viewing sustainability as a core value, which ultimately risks replicating the historical pattern that will generate even more unsustainability.
Enhancing Urban Landscapes through Underground Space Utilization: Public Perceptions
Authors: Zhao Xingxing , Chen Yulu , Wu Yanhua , Guo Dongjun , Chen Zhilong
Published: May 2024

Landscape occupation and green space reduction have decreased livability and hindered the sustainable development of cities. The urban landscape affects the quality of life and physical and mental state of the public, and urban underground space utilization is important for improving the urban landscape. Therefore, underground space utilization must be explored from a public perspective. Referring to typical underground municipal, transportation, and public space projects, an online questionnaire survey of 377 Nanjing residents was performed to construct a structural equation model investigating their perceptions and preferences regarding underground space usage to improve the landscape, focusing on the links between their preferences and opinions. Underground works that provide diverse open spaces were considered to have the most positive impact on the landscape (82.8%). The aesthetic value of the surface landscape (83.5%) and the vitality of historical sites (82.1%) were the most significantly affected, whereas stock underground space had no significant effect on landscape protection. In terms of age, profession, and place of work, the respondents demonstrated heterogeneous preferences. These findings indicate that targeted publicity and public participation are important to strengthen the cooperative utilization of space and realize the potential of the underground space, helping address actual requirements and develop sustainable cities.
Does the Opening of High-Speed Rail Change Urban Financial Agglomeration?
Authors: Hu Shu-Rui , Jiang Ren-Ai , Lu Zhe-Yuan , Yin Xiao-Xue
Published: May 2024

High-speed rail (HSR) in China has led to altered spatiotemporal distances, thus inevitably affecting the regional economies. Has HSR also impacted the urban financial pattern? We analyze the relationship between HSR and financial agglomeration in 283 prefecture-level cities in China and find that HSR significantly reduces urban financial agglomeration and promotes financial diffusion. After the opening of HSR, financial employees (AGGE) and deposit agglomeration (AGGD) decrease by 0.06 and 0.07, respectively. Specifically: (1) HSR creates a financial diffusion effect by promoting industrial restructuring and technological innovation, thereby preventing excessive financial agglomeration in cities; (2) the heterogeneity analysis shows that financial factors are generally diffused from east to west, and HSR mainly causes a decrease in financial agglomeration in the eastern region; (3) we construct four spatial matrices for regression to further verify the impact of HSR, and we find that the indirect effect of HSR on financial agglomeration is more significant compared to the direct effect.
Digital Transformation and Urban Green Development: Evidence from China’s Data Factor Marketization
Authors: Li Honghe , Du Xiaotian , Yan Xiang-Wu , Xu Ning
Published: May 2024

Data are the core element of digital transformation. Data factor marketization (DFM) is critical in the process of digital transformation, which promotes urban green development. This paper analyzes the role of digitization in urban environmental sustainability. We investigate the effects of DFM on environmental pollution (EP) using a difference-in-differences approach and data from 283 cities in China from 2006 to 2019. The findings reveal that cities implementing DFM demonstrate an average reduction in EP of 2.67%. The mechanism behind DFM lowering EP involves fostering green innovation, increasing public awareness of environmental issues, attracting IT professionals, optimizing the industrial structure, and enhancing digital finance capabilities. Large cities, cities in the south, and those not primarily dependent on natural resources exhibit a more pronounced reduction in EP through DFM. Implementing policies related to digital infrastructure and enhancing the protection of urban intellectual property rights further amplifies the effect of DFM in reducing pollution. Additionally, this effect exhibits spatial spillover effects. This study contributes to the existing literature by (1) demonstrating DFM’s role in improving urban environmental quality in China through digital technology and market mechanisms, thereby aligning economic growth with ecological sustainability; (2) emphasizing the importance of public engagement in environmental stewardship through increased awareness and community participation in policymaking, as well as fostering social inclusion and ecological conservation; (3) emphasizing spatial spillover effects, the importance of inter-city collaboration in environmental policies, and advocating for comprehensive strategies to achieve broader environmental improvements across urban areas.
Waste Management of Wind Turbine Blades: A Comprehensive Review on Available Recycling Technologies with A Focus on Overcoming Potential Environmental Hazards Caused by Microplastic Production
Authors: Tayebi Sara Taherinezhad , Sambucci Matteo , Valente Marco
Published: May 2024

The 2020 targets for sustainable development and circular economy encourage global leaders and countries to legislate laws and policies on several critical hot topics to prevent further global warming: (1) the increased utilization of renewable electrical power (wind turbine implants, as an example); (2) waste transformation into high-added-value materials based on the European Green Deal for energy transition; and (3) material and energy recovery and circularity. Accordingly, scholars and researchers have predicted that, hopefully, installed wind power capacity is going to increase dramatically by 2050. However, our ecosystem will have to face and deal with an enormous amount of decommissioned turbine blades. The disposal of these wastes via conventional methods could not only raise the possibility of microplastic formation, but could also boost the probability of environmental issues such as air pollution, soil, water contamination, etc. Moreover, these hazards will endanger wildlife and humans. As a result, the waste management of these retired blades composed of multi-lateral composite materials through a sustainable, effective, and feasible single/or hybrid process is necessary. This review aims to summarize all of the information about turbines, introduce all the various recycling pathways used for their blades, and provide a comparative analysis of these methods as well. In addition, the paper defines the possibility of microplastic formation from this waste (especially end-of-life turbine blade scraps), points out potential risks for the Earth, and suggests actions to inhibit their build-up and to keep the environment safe.
Development and Validation of the Readiness to Change Scale (RtC) for Sustainability
Authors: Duradoni Mirko , Valdrighi Giulia , Donati Alessia , Fiorenza Maria , Puddu Luisa , Guazzini Andrea
Published: May 2024

The climate emergency is increasingly looming, and its consequences on nature and human systems are increasingly severe and pervasive, as reported by the world’s leading conferences and organizations on the subject. There appears to be an immediate need to adopt more sustainable behaviors in order to stem consequences that are becoming increasingly dramatic. In this regard, environmental psychology and other related disciplines have sought and still seek to understand how to translate the environmental concerns of individuals and communities into effective and efficient conservation and protection actions to contain the emergency and avoid further consequences. The contribution of psychological theories, particularly the transtheoretical model of change and the planned behavior model, appears very promising for assessing and promoting the potential for activation toward sustainability. The aim of this study was to develop a new conceptualization of the psychological construct of readiness to change (RtC) applied to sustainability issues and validated internally and externally through two separate studies (N1 = 228, N2 = 713). The sample for the two studies was recruited by distributing an anonymous online survey. For Study 1, we administered an online survey investigating basic sociodemographic characteristics and the preliminary set of 42 items of the readiness to change scale. For Study 2, the survey was composed of the following tools: a sociodemographic form, the readiness to change scale, a connectedness to nature scale, a climate change attitude survey, consumers’ perceived readiness toward green products, and a pro-environmental behaviors scale. Through exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, 29 items were selected from an initial set of 42. The 29 items were divided and organized into seven factors (namely: perceived importance of the problem/change, motivation, self-efficacy, effectiveness of the proposed solution, social support, action and involvement, and perceived readiness). Each factor showed adequate reliability (McDonald’s ω range: 0.74–0.87). Regarding external validity, the scale showed correlations—with typical to large effect sizes—with pro-environmental identity, green attitudes, sustainable intentions, and pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs) (i.e., conservation, environmental citizenship, food, transportation). Given the results obtained, we can say that the scale we constructed can infer the individual’s propensity to enact PEBs, and consequently it can give input to the implementation of interventions aimed at stimulating RtC and, therefore, sustainable behaviors. In conclusion, the scale appears valid and usable for assessing the activation potential of both individuals but also at the group and community levels—the latter factor being an important contribution to scientific research, since most of the instruments used to date fail to estimate this aspect.
Farmer Perspectives on the Economic, Environmental, and Social Sustainability of Environmental Conservation Agriculture (ECA) in Namobuddha Municipality, Kavre, Nepal
Authors: Maharjan Keshav Lall , Gonzalvo Clarisse Mendoza , Singh Manjeshwori
Published: May 2024

The adoption of environmental conservation agriculture (ECA) in Nepal is aligned with the country’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, as ECA practices have been proven to effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Nepal’s agricultural sector faces numerous challenges, including labor shortages, climate change impacts, and the necessity for environmentally friendly farming methods, making the adoption of ECA practices even more crucial. Thus, this paper explored farmer perspectives on the sustainability of ECA practices in the Namobuddha municipality, Nepal, which is renowned as a leading hub of organic farming. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, together with key informant interviews and onsite observations. By analyzing various farmer perspectives, the study presents an analytical framework that highlights the economic, environmental, and social pillars of ECA’s sustainability. The findings underscore the significance of economic viability for farmers, as damages to crops and farm products negatively drive their perception of ECA sustainability. Conversely, factors such as increased agriculture-related income, favorable prices, and sustainable productivity positively shape farmers’ perceptions. In terms of environmental sustainability, farmers prioritize enhancing the local and global environment, viewing their farming methods as climate-smart and actively working towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The study emphasizes the importance of strategic communication to effectively convey the benefits of ECA to rural communities. Overall, this research contributes to filling the knowledge gap concerning farmers’ perceptions of ECA sustainability. The insights gained from this study have the potential to inform policy decisions and promote the widespread adoption of environmentally friendly farming practices in Nepal.
Physical Training, the Pandemic and Sustainable Living
Authors: Giustino Valerio , Battaglia Giuseppe
Published: May 2024

Physical exercise is a stimulus that induces psychological and physiological responses which lead to cell adaptations of different organ systems [...]
Advancing Spatiotemporal Pollutant Dispersion Forecasting with an Integrated Deep Learning Framework for Crucial Information Capture
Authors: Wang Yuchen , Luo Zhengshan , Kong Yulei , Luo Jihao
Published: May 2024

This study addressed the limitations of traditional methods in predicting air pollution dispersion, which include restrictions in handling spatiotemporal dynamics, unbalanced feature importance, and data scarcity. To overcome these challenges, this research introduces a novel deep learning-based model, SAResNet-TCN, which integrates the strengths of a Residual Neural Network (ResNet) and a Temporal Convolutional Network (TCN). This fusion is designed to effectively capture the spatiotemporal characteristics and temporal correlations within pollutant dispersion data. The incorporation of a sparse attention (SA) mechanism further refines the model’s focus on critical information, thereby improving efficiency. Furthermore, this study employed a Time-Series Generative Adversarial Network (TimeGAN) to augment the dataset, thereby improving the generalisability of the model. In rigorous ablation and comparison experiments, the SAResNet-TCN model demonstrated significant advances in predicting pollutant dispersion patterns, including accurate predictions of concentration peaks and trends. These results were enhanced by a global sensitivity analysis (GSA) and an additive-by-addition approach, which identified the optimal combination of input variables for different scenarios by examining their impact on the model’s performance. This study also included visual representations of the maximum downwind hazardous distance (MDH-distance) for pollutants, validated against the Prairie Grass Project Release 31, with the Protective Action Criteria (PAC) and Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) levels serving as hazard thresholds. This comprehensive approach to contaminant dispersion prediction aims to provide an innovative and practical solution for environmental hazard prediction and management.
Sustainability Assessment of Urban Public Transport for SDG Using Geospatial Big Data
Authors: Zhang Qinghua , Liu Chuansheng , Lu Linlin , Hu Jangling , Chen Yu
Published: May 2024

Rapid urbanization has resulted in various challenges, including a decline in environmental quality, traffic congestion, housing tensions, and employment difficulties. To address these issues, the United Nations introduced the “2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”. One of the specific targets, 11.2.1, aims to tackle transportation problems. This study focuses on Guilin City, which is designated as an innovation demonstration zone for the national sustainable development agenda. The research conducted in this study examines the state of public transportation in six urban areas of Guilin City from 2015 to 2021, utilizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicator system, evaluation method, geospatial analysis, and entropy value method. The findings reveal that the coverage area of public transportation in the six urban areas of Guilin City expanded from 147.98 km2 in 2015 to 259.18 km2 in 2021. The percentage of the population with access to public transportation increased from 69.06% in 2015 to 71.63% in 2018 and further to 75.60% in 2021. While the accessibility of public transportation in the other four districts exceeds 90%, Lingui District and Yanshan District have lower accessibility, but it is gradually improving. The center of gravity for public transportation is also shifting towards the southwest, with Lingui District and Yanshan District experiencing gradual development. The evaluation score for sustainable development increased from 64.30 to 74.48, indicating a transition from a low sustainable development level to medium sustainable development level. Significant progress has been made in the indicators of the share of new energy buses, the rate of bus sharing, the coverage rate of bus stops, and the number of public transportation vehicles per 10,000 people. However, the indicators for the average distance between bus stops, the average speed of public transportation, and the density of public transportation routes are growing at a slower pace. The development of urban public transportation continues to improve, and the overall trend is positive. The sustainable development evaluation framework and positioning method proposed in this study serve as a reference for the sustainable development of Guilin City. Additionally, it provides insights for evaluating the sustainable development goals of public transportation in tourist cities like Guilin in China and worldwide.
Smart Experience and Green Health Tourism: The Moderating Role of Content Marketing
Authors: Amiri Sardari Zohreh , Abdoli Mohamadabadi Tayebeh , Nazarian-Jashnabadi Javad , Tesoriere Giovanni , Campisi Tiziana
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this research is to evaluate smart experience in green health tourism with the mediating role of content marketing by using the two models of technology acceptance and hedonism. This study utilizes quantitative and causal research methods. A total of 332 respondents completed a survey conducted at two Iranian tourism hubs. Also, purposeful sampling was used for data collection. Respondents rated their perceptions of each item on a five-point Likert scale. Using the partial least squares path modeling technique, the results reveal the direct effects of smart experience on green health tourism. The findings suggest that content marketing interacts with smart experience to influence green health tourism, such that the use of smart experience in health tourism can reduce the annual costs of developing environmental protection methods. This paper thus contributes to the hospitality management theory, green tourism, and wellness literature.
Spatiotemporal Characteristics and Driving Factors of Ecosystem Regulation Services Value at the Plot Scale
Authors: He Yawen , Long Qingcheng
Published: May 2024

The value of ecosystem regulation services (ERSV) is a crucial aspect of gross ecosystem product (GEP). Understanding and mastering the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics and driving factors of ERSV is essential for the efficient management of regional ecosystems. This study proposes an ERSV accounting model at the plot scale and uses the barycentric analysis method, the optimal parameters-based geographical detector model (OPGD), and the constraint line extraction method to analyze the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics, main driving factors, and constraint rules of ERSV in Yunyang District, Hubei Province in 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2021. The results show that (1) In the temporal dimension, the overall ERSV of the district increased by CNY 1.664 billion from 2016 to 2021, with an increase rate of 3.68%. The contribution values of climate regulation function and water retention function to ERSV was significant. (2) In the spatial dimension, the ERSV was high in the north and south and low in the middle, with high-value areas mainly located in woodland and wetland areas. The center of gravity of the ERSV increase shifted to the southwest by 12,455.42 m, while the center of gravity of the reduction shifted to the southwest by 3582.79 m from 2016 to 2021. (3) The interaction of any two driving factors had greater explanatory power for the spatial differentiation of ERSV than that of a single driving factor, and all of them showed nonlinear or double factor enhancement characteristics. The human active index (HAI) and construction land proportion (CLP) were the leading anthropogenic factors, while the land surface temperature (LST) and NDVI were the leading natural factors. (4) The ERSV could maintain a high and stable value output when the HAI was less than 0.3, CLP was less than 15%, LST was between 18 and 22 °C, and NDVI was greater than 0.5. These results can guide the practices of ecology, production, and life in Yunyang District and contribute to the high quality and sustainable development of the regional ecology and economy.