bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of the Filament Winding Process for Glass Fiber-Reinforced PPS and PP Composites Using Box–Behnken Design
Authors: Orman Sevinc , Dogu Mustafa , Ozbek Belma
Published: December 2024

Filament winding is a widely used out-of-autoclave manufacturing technique for producing continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites. This study focuses on optimizing key filament winding process parameters, including heater temperature, roller pressure, and winding speed, to produce thermoplastic composites. Using Box–Behnken response surface methodology (RSM), the study investigates the effects of these parameters on the compressive load of glass fiber-reinforced polypropylene (GF/PP) and polyphenylene sulfide (GF/PPS) composite cylinders. Mathematical models were developed to quantify the impact of each parameter and optimal processing conditions were identified across a wide temperature range, enhancing both manufacturing efficiency and the overall quality of the composites. This study demonstrates the potential of thermoplastic filament winding as a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to conventional methods, addressing the growing demand for lightweight, high-performance, out-of-autoclave composites in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and energy. The optimized process significantly improved the performance and reliability of filament winding for various thermoplastic applications, offering potential benefits for industrial, aerospace, and other advanced sectors. The results indicate that GF/PPS composites achieved a compressive load of 3356.99 N, whereas GF/PP composites reached 2946.04 N under optimized conditions. It was also revealed that operating at elevated temperatures and reduced pressure levels enhances the quality of GF/PPS composites, while for GF/PP composites, maintaining lower temperature and pressure values is crucial for maximizing strength.
Development of Antimicrobial Blends of Bacteria Nanocellulose Derived from Plastic Waste and Polyhydroxybutyrate Enhanced with Essential Oils
Authors: Da Silva Pereira Everton Henrique , Nicevic Marija , Garcia Eduardo Lanzagorta , Moritz Vicente Fróes , Ozcelik Zeliha Ece , Tas Buket Alkan , Fournet Margaret Brennan
Published: December 2024

The escalating global concern regarding plastic waste accumulation and its detrimental environmental impact has driven the exploration of sustainable alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastics. This study investigates the development of antimicrobial blends of bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) derived from plastic waste and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHB), further enhanced with essential oils. The antimicrobial activity of the resulting BNC/PHB blends was tested in vitro against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. The incorporation of essential oils, particularly cinnamon oil, significantly enhanced the antimicrobial properties of the BNC/PHB blends. The BNC with 5% PHB blend exhibited the highest antifungal inhibition against C. albicans at 90.25%. Additionally, blends with 2% and 10% PHB also showed antifungal activity, inhibiting 68% of C. albicans growth. These findings highlight the potential of incorporating essential oils into BNC/PHB blends to create effective antimicrobial materials. The study concludes that enhancing the antimicrobial properties of BNC/PHB significantly broadens its potential applications across various sectors, including wound dressings, nanofiltration masks, controlled-release fertilizers, and active packaging.
Tissue Sources Influence the Morphological and Morphometric Characteristics of Collagen Membranes for Guided Bone Regeneration
Authors: Alarcón-Apablaza Josefa , Godoy-Sánchez Karina , Jarpa-Parra Marcela , Garrido-Miranda Karla , Fuentes Ramón
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: Collagen, a natural polymer, is widely used in the fabrication of membranes for guided bone regeneration (GBR). These membranes are sourced from various tissues, such as skin, pericardium, peritoneum, and tendons, which exhibit differences in regenerative outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the morphological and chemical properties of porcine collagen membranes from five different tissue sources: skin, pericardium, dermis, tendons, and peritoneum. (2) Methods: The membrane structure was analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), variable pressure scanning electron microscopy (VP-SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermal stability via thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The absorption capacity of the membranes for GBR was also assessed using an analytical digital balance. (3) Results: The membranes displayed distinct microstructural features. Skin- and tendon-derived membranes had rough surfaces with nanopores (1.44 ± 1.24 µm and 0.46 ± 0.1 µm, respectively), while pericardium- and dermis-derived membranes exhibited rough surfaces with macropores (78.90 ± 75.89 µm and 64.89 ± 13.15 µm, respectively). The peritoneum-derived membrane featured a rough surface of compact longitudinal fibers with irregular macropores (9.02 ± 3.70 µm). The thickness varied significantly among the membranes, showing differences in absorption capacity. The pericardium membrane exhibited the highest absorption, increasing by more than 10 times its initial mass. In contrast, the skin-derived membrane demonstrated the lowest absorption, increasing by less than 4 times its initial mass. Chemical analysis revealed that all membranes were primarily composed of carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen. Thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry analyses showed no significant compositional differences among the membranes. FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of collagen, with characteristic peaks corresponding to Amide A, B, I, II, and III. (4) Conclusions: The tissue origin of collagen membranes significantly influences their morphological characteristics, which may, in turn, affect their osteogenic properties. These findings provide valuable insights into the selection of collagen membranes for GBR applications.
Characterization and Rheological Properties of Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylenes
Authors: Malkin Alexander Ya. , Ladygina Tatyana A. , Gusarov Sergey S. , Dudka Dmitry V. , Mityukov Anton V.
Published: December 2024

The molecular characteristics and rheological properties of three UHMWPE samples were investigated. The high-temperature GPC method was used for characterizing UHMWPE samples used. The interpretation of the measurement results was based on calibration using the PS standard and the approximation of the PS data by linear and cubic polynomials, as well as on the data for linear PE. The assessment of the average MW and MWD depends on the choice of calibration method, so that different methods give different results. Only the results obtained using PS with cubic approximation are close to the characteristics offered by the manufacturer. It was also shown that the obtained MW characteristics depend on the dissolution time. The reason for this may be the presence of any processing-aid compounds or destruction of macromolecules. Measurements of the rheological properties were performed in creep modes for a wide range of shear stresses and harmonic oscillations. It was shown that even at 210 °C, UHMWPE does not flow, and the observed irreversible deformations are due to the plasticity of the polymer, i.e., UHMWPE is in an elastic–plastic state. The ultimate plastic deformations drop sharply with increasing MW of the polymer. The plasticity modulus for the highest molecular weight UHMWPE samples does not depend on stress. Measurements of viscoelastic characteristics confirmed that the terminal region of viscous flow cannot be reached under any conditions. Increasing the duration of holding the polymer at high temperature leads not to flow, but to the destruction of macromolecules.
Experimental and Kinetic Study of Biochar in N-Absorption Reaction of Chemical Looping Ammonia Generation
Authors: Liu Zhongyuan , Yu Qingbo , Xie Huaqing , Gao Jinchao , Zhao Jiatai
Published: December 2024

The study conducted isothermal tests for biochar-based N-absorption reaction in Chemical Looping Ammonia Generation to investigate the factors affecting biochar conversion, the kinetic model, and the reaction mechanism. The results show that the N2 gas flows had little effect on biochar conversion. Raising the reaction temperature and the molar ratio of α-Al2O3 to C enhanced the conversion of biochar. When the N2 flow rate was set to 200 mL/min, the reaction temperature to 1600 °C, and the α-Al2O3/C molar ratio to 3:3, the biochar conversion reached its peak at 95.45%. After evaluating several kinetic models, the D1 diffusion model was found to provide the closest match to the biochar conversion. The activation energy decreased from 241.91 kJ/mol at a 1:3 α-Al2O3/C molar ratio to 146.77 kJ/mol at a 3:3 ratio with an increasing α-Al2O3/C molar ratio. The biochar’s high specific surface area and abundant pore structure facilitated a rapid reaction between carbon and oxygen on the carbon surface. Additionally, the diffusion of oxygen produced during the decomposition of α-Al2O3 became the limiting factor in the N-absorption reaction.
Comparative Exergy Analysis of Series and Parallel Dual-Pressure Auto-Cascade Organic Rankine Cycles
Authors: Li Yongsheng , Li Zhiyu , Zhang Haigang , Zhang Jieyu , He Xiaohong , Qiao Yanjin , Yu Zeting
Published: December 2024

The organic Rankine cycle (ORC) is a valuable method for harnessing low-temperature waste heat to generate electricity. In this study, two dual-pressure auto-cascade ORC systems driven by low-grade geothermal water are proposed in series and parallel configurations to ensure high thermal efficiency and power output. The energy and exergy analysis models for two systems are developed for comparative and parametric analysis, which uses a zeotropic refrigerant mixture of R134a and R245fa. The findings indicate that, with a heat source temperature of 393.15 K, the thermal efficiency and exergy efficiency of the series auto-cascade ORC reach 10.12% and 42.07%, respectively, which are 27% and 21.9% higher than those of the parallel auto-cascade ORC. However, the parallel cycle exhibits a higher net power output, indicating a better heat source utilization. The exergy analysis shows that evaporator 1 and the condenser possess the highest exergy destruction in both cycles. Finally, the parameter analysis reveals that the system performance is affected significantly by the heat source and heat sink temperature, the pinch temperature difference, and the refrigerant mixture concentration. These findings could provide valuable insights for improving the overall performance of ORCs driven by low-grade energy when using zeotropic refrigerant mixtures.
Experimental Study on the Output Characteristics of a Novel Intensifier Controlled by an Electromagnetic Valve
Authors: He Yuhang , Liao Hualin , Wang Huajian , Wang Minsheng , Niu Jilei , Niu Wenlong
Published: December 2024

The application of ultra-high-pressure (UHP) water jets for rock slotting in the bottom hole has been recognized as a highly effective approach to enhance rock-breaking efficiency. However, the current downhole intensifiers are confronted with various limitations, including the short duration of UHP pulse water jet output and challenges in attaining both controllable and adjustable output frequencies, consequently leading to compromised slotting efficiency. In this study, a novel intensifier controlled by an electromagnetic valve was designed, and a visual test platform was constructed to investigate the output pressure characteristics and their influencing factors. The output characteristics of the intensifier consist of a mixed pulse jet composed of high-pressure and low-pressure jets, resulting in a square wave-like output waveform with an adjustable frequency. The output pressure characteristics of the intensifier are primarily influenced by the input pressure and the switching time of the electromagnetic valve, assuming that the structural parameters are constant. Increasing the input pressure raises the peak pressure, thereby enhancing the slotting capability of the jet stream. Aligning the switching time of the electromagnetic valve with the rotation period of the drill bit improves the slotting efficiency. In the lab tests, the output pressure of the intensifier was successfully increased to 118.2 MPa, with a sustained duration of a high-pressure jet segment for 2.1 s. These research findings offer a new method for enhancing drilling efficiency in deep hard rock formations.
Synthesis, Rheology, Morphology, and Mechanical Properties of Biodegradable PVA-Based Composite Films: A Review on Recent Progress
Authors: Rahman Khan Mohammad Mizanur , Rumon Md. Mahamudul Hasan , Islam Mobinul
Published: December 2024

Biodegradable polymers play an important role in environmental concerns compared to non-biodegradable polymers. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a biodegradable polymer with film-forming properties with antimicrobial and antioxidant activities and are considered for numerous practical applications in the industry, like food packaging, pharmaceuticals, and so on. The synthesis of PVA with promising properties like rheology, morphology, and mechanical performance is significant from the application point of view in industrial sectors. It is vital to realize the drawbacks and promising prospects associated with PVA rheology, morphology, and mechanical properties and how to address the problems concerning these properties. The present review describes the contemporary advancement of numerous synthesis approaches of PVA-based composite films and their rheology, morphology, and mechanical properties. This comprehensive review offers a comprehensive discussion of various strategies to enhance the rheology, morphology, and mechanical properties of composite films. It emphasizes modifications using environmentally friendly materials such as nanoparticles, metal oxides, polymers, and others. Additionally, existing challenges and the potential for forthcoming advancements in the properties of such composite films are discussed. The correlation between the PVA-based composite films and their promising properties like rheology, morphology, and mechanical performance may provide a reference for new insights into their applications in industrial sectors.
Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Wastewater Treatment: A Dynamic Analysis of Emerging Research Trends
Authors: De la Hoz-M Javier , Ariza-Echeverri Edwan Anderson , Vergara Diego
Published: December 2024

Wastewater treatment is a critical process for ensuring water quality and public health, particularly in the context of increasing environmental challenges such as pollution and water scarcity. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology capable of optimizing various wastewater treatment processes, such as contaminant removal, energy consumption, and cost-efficiency. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of AI applications in wastewater treatment, utilizing data from Scopus and Web of Science covering 4335 publications from 1985 to 2024. Utilizing machine learning techniques such as neural networks, fuzzy logic, and genetic algorithms, the analysis reveals key trends in the role of the AI in optimizing wastewater treatment processes. The results show that AI has increasingly been applied to solve complex problems like membrane fouling, nutrient removal, and biofouling control. Regional contributions highlight a strong focus on advanced oxidation processes, microbial sludge treatment, and energy optimization. The Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) model further identifies emerging topics such as real-time process monitoring and AI-driven effluent prediction as pivotal areas for future research. The findings provide valuable insights into the current state and future potential of AI technologies in wastewater management, offering a roadmap for researchers exploring the integration of AI to address sustainability challenges in the field.
Thunderstorms with Extreme Lightning Activity in China: Climatology, Synoptic Patterns, and Convective Parameters
Authors: Ma Ruiyang , Zheng Dong , Zhang Yijun , Yao Wen , Zhang Wenjuan , Zhu Biao
Published: December 2024

Intense convection is often accompanied by high-frequency lightning and is highly prone to producing heavy rainfall, strong winds, hail, and tornadoes, frequently resulting in significant damage and loss of life. It is necessary to understand the mechanisms and meteorological conditions of intense convection. This study utilizes the Thunderstorm Feature Dataset from 2010–2018 to analyze the characteristics of thunderstorms with extreme lightning activity (TELAs), defined as thunderstorms whose lightning frequency ranks in the top 1%. Four regions with relatively high thunderstorm activity were selected for analysis: Northeast China (NEC), North China (NC), South China (SC), and the Tibetan Plateau (TP). In NEC, TELAs primarily occur just west of upper-level westerly troughs (UWT), including cold vortices. In NC, TELAs are mainly associated with UWT and subtropical highs (STH). In SC, TELAs are related to frontal systems, easterly waves, tropical cyclones, and STH. In TP, TELAs are generated by TP vortices. Before the TELA process, vertically integrated moisture divergence (VIMD) and convective available potential energy (CAPE) show the most notable anomalies. Except for the TP, TELAs are typically located between centers of anomalies with positive and negative geopotential height (500 hPa) and near centers of anomalies with positive CAPE and negative VIMD, accompanied by notable increases in surface temperature and wind speed. These findings offer a valuable reference for the early warning and forecasting of intense convection.
Enhancing Cropland Mapping with Spatial Super-Resolution Reconstruction by Optimizing Training Samples for Image Super-Resolution Models
Authors: Jia Xiaofeng , Li Xinyan , Wang Zirui , Hao Zhen , Ren Dong , Liu Hui , Du Yun , Ling Feng
Published: December 2024

Mixed pixels often hinder accurate cropland mapping from remote sensing images with coarse spatial resolution. Image spatial super-resolution reconstruction technology is widely applied to address this issue, typically transforming coarse-resolution remote sensing images into fine spatial resolution images, which are then used to generate fine-resolution land cover maps using classification techniques. Deep learning has been widely used for image spatial super-resolution reconstruction; however, collecting training samples is often difficult for cropland mapping. Given that the quality of spatial super-resolution reconstruction directly impacts classification accuracy, this study aims to assess the impact of different types of training samples on image spatial super-resolution reconstruction and cropland mapping results by employing a Residual Channel Attention Network (RCAN) model combined with a spatial attention mechanism. Four types of samples were used for spatial super-resolution reconstruction model training, namely fine-resolution images and their corresponding coarse-resolution images, including original Sentinel-2 and degraded Sentinel-2 images, original GF-2 and degraded GF-2 images, histogram-matched GF-2 and degraded GF-2 images, and registered original GF-2 and Sentinel-2 images. The results indicate that the samples acquired by the histogram-matched GF-2 and degraded GF-2 images can resolve spectral band mismatches when simulating training samples from fine spatial resolution imagery, while the other three methods have limitations in their inability to fully address spectral and spatial mismatches. The histogram-matched method yielded the best image quality with PSNR, SSIM, and QNR values of 42.2813, 0.9778, and 0.9872, respectively, and produced the best mapping results, achieving an overall accuracy of 0.9306. By assessing the impact of training samples on image spatial super-resolution reconstruction and classification, this study addresses data limitations and contributes to improving the accuracy of cropland mapping, which is crucial for agricultural management and decision-making.
Machine Learning Algorithms for Acid Mine Drainage Mapping Using Sentinel-2 and Worldview-3
Authors: Farahnakian Fahimeh , Luodes Nike , Karlsson Teemu
Published: December 2024

Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) presents significant environmental challenges, particularly in regions with extensive mining activities. Effective monitoring and mapping of AMD are crucial for mitigating its detrimental impacts on ecosystems and water quality. This study investigates the application of Machine Learning (ML) algorithms to map AMD by fusing multispectral imagery from Sentinel-2 with high-resolution imagery from WorldView-3. We applied three widely used ML models—Random Forest (RF), K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), and Multilayer Perceptron (MLP)—to address both classification and regression tasks. The classification models aimed to distinguish between AMD and non-AMD samples, while the regression models provided quantitative pH mapping. Our experiments were conducted on three lakes in the Outokumpu mining area in Finland, which are affected by mine waste and acidic drainage. Our results indicate that combining Sentinel-2 and WorldView-3 data significantly enhances the accuracy of AMD detection. This combined approach leverages the strengths of both datasets, providing a more robust and precise assessment of AMD impacts.
Correction: Feng et al. Identification of Ecological Sources Using Ecosystem Service Value and Vegetation Productivity Indicators: A Case Study of the Three-River Headwaters Region, Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau, China. Remote Sens. 2024, 16, 1258
Authors: Feng Xinyi , Huang Huiping , Wang Yingqi , Tian Yichen , Li Liping
Published: December 2024

In the original publication [...]
Mapping Coastal Dynamics Induced Land Use Change in Sandwip Island, Bangladesh
Authors: Langat Philip Kibet , Ghosh Manoj Kumer , Roy Chandan , Talukdar Puspita , Koech Richard , Neupane Arjun
Published: December 2024

Evaluating satellite water extraction indices, particularly for coastal environments, guarantees that satellite-derived water maps are as accurate and functional as possible, notwithstanding the unique complexities these areas present. Variability in salinity levels, intricate land-water boundaries, dynamic sediment loads, and tidal fluctuations often complicate coastal water mapping. Sandwip Island in Bangladesh is one of the most complex and dynamic coastal environments in the world and is our area of focus. Six water information extraction indices were evaluated: normalized-difference vegetation index (NDVI), modified normalized difference water index (MNDWI), automated water extraction index for built-up areas (AWEInsh) and shadows (AWEIsh), multi-band water index (MBWI), and normalized difference water index (NDWI), using Sandwip Island’s satellite Landsat imagery acquired in February 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020. The results showed that NDWI performed the best based on the total area obtained and classification accuracy. NDWI was then used to assess the erosion and accretion dynamics of the island for the study period (1990–2020). In the period 1990–2000, the island saw significant erosion and accretion along its coastlines in all parts, while the 2000–2010 period indicated that the island eroded on all sides. However, the situation was totally opposite during 2010–2020. The results illustrated the best performance of the NDWI algorithm in mapping surface water in the complex and dynamic Sandwip coastal environment. Also, erosion and accretion change temporally and spatially on the island. While this study is confined to Sandwip Island in Bangladesh, the findings hold the potential for broader applicability in regions with comparable characteristics.
The Biracial Asian-American Advantage at School Entry
Authors: Gibbs Benjamin G. , Jarvis Jonathan A. , Erickson Lance D. , Burton Lear , Cheng Can , Ward Carol
Published: December 2024

Asian-American students have some of the highest scores for standardized tests in American schools—a pattern that is commonly attributed to immigrant selectivity. We extend this line of inquiry by examining mixed-race couples and their children. Using both the ECLS-K cohorts of 1998 and 2010, we document the persistence of the Asian-American educational advantage over time by comparing the math and reading scores of white students (1998 n = 6700; 2010 n = 4500) with Asian-American (1998 n = 500; 2010 n = 600) and biracial Asian/white (1998 n = 150; 2010 n = 150) students at the start of elementary school. Surprisingly, in bivariate models, biracial Asian/white students have some of the highest math and reading scores. Socioeconomic factors are an important part of this advantage. When we examine parenting practices, we find that parenting works in opposite directions for biracial and monoracial Asian couples—decreasing the size of the biracial Asian/white educational advantage but increasing the size of the Asian-American advantage compared with their white kindergartener peers at school entry.
Primary School Teachers’ Perspectives on the Relationship Between Students’ Learning and Work-Related Skills
Authors: Näkk Anne-Mai , Timoštšuk Inge
Published: December 2024

Primary school teachers play a significant role in preparing students to meet the demands of the 21st century. Balancing the integration of work-related skills into classroom learning while maintaining student motivation presents considerable challenges. This study explored teachers’ perceptions of the relationship between student learning and the development of work-related skills through 13 narrative interviews. Data were analysed using phenomenographic and content analyses, revealing three key themes: competence-building, relatedness-focused, and autonomy-related views. Teachers highlighted the importance of developing students’ general competencies and cross-contextual skills while fostering a supportive learning environment and promoting a sense of relatedness. Notably, their perceptions were more influenced by past experiences than by current contexts. These findings suggest that teachers recognise the importance of integrating real-world phenomena into classroom learning to prepare students for future challenges. The implications for teacher training include fostering reflective practices to help educators critically examine the influence of personal history on their teaching approaches.
The Influence of Including Goalkeepers on the Intensity Demands of Walking Football Practice
Authors: Costa Júlio A. , Coelho César André , Ferraz António , Brito João , Guilherme José , Seabra André , Travassos Bruno , Folgado Hugo , Gonçalves Bruno
Published: December 2024

This preliminary study examined the effects of playing walking football with and without a goalkeeper (GK) on physiological, physical, technical, and perceptual variables in older men. Twenty participants (67 ± 4.7 years) engaged in two five vs. five walking football sessions, one WITH-GK and one WITHOUT-GK, using a randomized crossover design. The heart rate (HR), distance covered, technical actions, perceived exercise intensity, and enjoyment were measured. The results showed a significantly higher average HR (131 bpm vs. 123 bpm, p < 0.001), %HRmax (79% vs. 74%, p < 0.001), and time in higher HR zones (>80%HRmax, p < 0.05) in the WITH-GK condition. Participants also covered more total distance in the WITH-GK condition (1123 m vs. 1083 m, p < 0.001), particularly at speeds above 4 km/h (834 m vs. 781 m, p < 0.001). Conversely, more passes were made in the WITHOUT-GK condition (20 vs. 16 passes, p < 0.001), while the WITH-GK condition showed more shots (two vs. one, p < 0.001). The perceived exercise intensity was slightly higher in the WITHOUT-GK condition (five vs. four, p = 0.01), although the enjoyment levels were similar, with a slight preference for WITHOUT-GK. Overall, playing WITHOUT-GK provides a safer, lower-intensity alternative to WITH-GK, reducing the physical and perceived strain while maintaining enjoyment. This makes WITHOUT-GK particularly suitable for older adults or individuals with health conditions, promoting participation and rehabilitation with minimized risks.
Fiscal Policy Uncertainty and Firms’ Production Efficiency: Evidence from China
Authors: Zhao Yuyang , Dong Xinyu
Published: December 2024

Total factor productivity (TFP) is pivotal to driving sustainable economic growth. This study examines the relationship between fiscal policy uncertainty (FPU) and firms’ TFP with the least squares method. We measure FPU at the provincial level using government work reports from various provinces in China with text analysis and find that a higher degree of FPU is negatively associated with local firms’ TFP. This effect is more significant for firms from regions with lower levels of marketization and government fiscal transparency and those with higher managerial myopia than for other firms. The channel tests show that FPU reduces local firms’ TFP by inhibiting corporate expansionary and research and development investments, and this effect is supported by the intensified financing constraints. Overall, our results suggest that FPU impairs local firms’ production efficiency.
Greening the Growth: A Comprehensive Analysis of Globalization, Economic Performance, and Environmental Degradation in Tanzania
Authors: Kitole Felician A. , Sesabo Jennifer K. , Adesiyan Olufunmilola F. , Ige A. O. , Ojo Temitope O. , Emenike Chijioke U. , Khumalo Nolwazi Z. , Kassem Hazem S. , Elhindi Khalid M.
Published: December 2024

The pursuit of economic growth in developing countries like Tanzania often intensifies environmental degradation, posing significant sustainability challenges. This study examined the interrelationships between globalization, economic growth, and environmental degradation in Tanzania from 1970 to 2022, using World Bank data and the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model. The findings reveal a strong long-run positive relationship between GDP per capita and CO2 emissions, partially supporting the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis. Specifically, the analysis identifies an EKC threshold where emissions peak at 3 metric tons per capita and GDP per capita reaches approximately USD 1200 (TSH 3,120,000), after which further increases in emissions are associated with a decline in GDP per capita. In the short run, GDP per capita shows a weak negative association with CO2 emissions, indicating temporary environmental benefits during growth phases. Foreign direct investment (FDI) exhibits no significant short-term impact on emissions, mostly due to delays in the implementation of mega development projects and changes in the country’s economic policies as the result of change in the political regime. Additionally, trade openness is a significant driver of long-run emissions, emphasizing the environmental costs of globalization. To address these challenges, this study recommends that Tanzania attract sustainable FDI for integrating eco-friendly technologies, promote green trade practices by embedding environmental safeguards into trade agreements, and invest in renewable energy infrastructure to decouple growth from emissions. Strengthening environmental regulations, enhancing institutional capacity, and fostering international collaboration are crucial to achieving long-term sustainability. These measures can help Tanzania balance economic development and environmental preservation, aligning with the goals of Tanzania Development Vision 2025 (TDV 2025) and paving the way for a sustainable growth trajectory.
The Management of Harmful Emissions from Heavy-Duty Transport Towards Sustainable Development
Authors: Stryhunivska Olena , Zwolińska Bożena , Giel Robert
Published: December 2024

The increasing number of heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) on roads has become a major contributor to harmful emissions, posing critical environmental challenges and exacerbating global warming. This study aims to establish correlations between road types and the emissions they generate, offering actionable insights for logistics planning and strategies to mitigate diesel vehicle emissions. The analysis is based on input data from a selected transport company, covering parameters such as vehicle type, average mileage, speed, and driving style, as well as environmental conditions like ambient temperature and humidity. Emissions and energy consumption levels are estimated using the COPERT model. A key research challenge involves accurately predicting and managing air pollution caused by HDVs under varying vehicular, technological, and fuel conditions, as well as fluctuating atmospheric and operational factors. The findings indicate that highway driving produces the highest emissions of pollutants such as Se and Zn, while urban peak hours record the highest levels of NOx, NO, and NO2. These results emphasise the critical role of strategic route selection in reducing total emissions and managing levels of individual harmful substances. This research highlights the importance of integrating sustainable practices into transport planning to reduce environmental impacts, align with global climate objectives, and advance sustainable development in the transport sector.
Energy–Growth Nexus in European Union Countries During the Green Transition
Authors: Jóźwik Bartosz , Tiwari Aviral Kumar , Gavryshkiv Antonina Viktoria , Galewska Kinga , Taş Bahar
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the relationship between economic growth and energy consumption—both renewable and non-renewable—in European Union countries during the green transition. Using a panel dataset of 28 EU countries from 1995 to 2021, we employ econometric techniques—including the Westerlund cointegration test and a fixed-effect panel threshold model—to assess long-term equilibrium relationships. The results indicate that while both renewable and non-renewable energy consumption are associated with economic growth, their roles differ. Renewable energy consumption shows a positive but less robust relationship with economic growth. In contrast, non-renewable energy consumption demonstrates a more robust bidirectional causality with economic growth, indicating a more intertwined relationship with economic growth during the study period. Interestingly, in countries with high levels of non-renewable energy consumption—classified as regime 2 in the panel threshold model—increased non-renewable energy consumption is associated with a decrease in economic activity. Our results have significant policy recommendations, indicating that promoting renewable energy sources does not hinder economic growth. Moreover, such promotion has the potential to contribute substantially to economic growth in the future. Therefore, in addition to other crucial benefits, such as increased energy security, the development of renewable energy sources does not threaten the economy. This is particularly relevant as many EU countries, including Poland, Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Lithuania, still have underdeveloped renewable energy sectors.
Intangible Heritage, Education and Tourism as a Strategy for the Enhancement of the Value of the Dehesa and the Traditional Shepherd’s Trade
Authors: Guillén-Peñafiel Rebeca , Hernández-Carretero Ana María , Sánchez-Martín José Manuel
Published: December 2024

The dehesas are one of the most unique and characteristic landscapes of the Extremadura region. Together with their natural values, they are an environment in which trades, knowledge and ways of life rooted in the tradition of rural communities are still developed. However, ancestral knowledge and practices are in danger of disappearing. Faced with this problem, this study is focused on the benefits of tourism, using sustainability criteria to evaluate their ability to educate and to increase awareness and sensitivity of the importance of maintaining this intangible cultural legacy. Based on this premise, the main objective is to determine and analyze tourists’ evaluations of the traditional shepherd’s trade and the educational possibilities of agritourism experiences. For this purpose, a survey was carried out among 102 tourists who visited different cheese dairies in an Extremadura region that offers agritourism experiences. In addition, this work also aims to know the current situation of the shepherd’s trade, identifying the benefits of its conservation and determining the threats that hinder its preservation. It also seeks to determine the solutions that could safeguard it. To this end, the Delphi method was used and 26 experts, mainly shepherds and shearers, were interviewed. The results reveal that tourists can identify the educational and cultural functions associated with pastoralism. They also recognize increased curiosity, empathy and environmental awareness as the main benefits derived from the tourism experience. The interviews reveal the suitability of disseminating the heritage and educational value of the dehesa through sustainable tourism experiences to increase interest in the rural world, revalue ancestral knowledge and contribute to its preservation.
Determining Factors Affecting Agroecological Practices’ Acceptance and Use in Mali, West Africa
Authors: Sidibé Moumouni , Zannou Afio , Saliou Idelphonse O. , Sacko Issa , Aoudji Augustin K. N. , Assogbadjo Achille Ephrem , Coulibaly Harouna , Koné Bourema
Published: December 2024

Land degradation issues and declining fertility are driving the need for agroecological practices. This research analysed the determinants of acceptance and actual use of five main agroecological practices (contour farming techniques, organic fertiliser, crop association, improved seeds and integrated crop management practices) by farmers in Mali. The extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) was used to develop the conceptual model. Data were collected from 505 randomly selected farming households in the cotton and cereal production zones in Mali. Partial Least Square–Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to estimate technology acceptance and use. The findings revealed that behavioural intention is significantly and positively influenced by the expected performance and social influence. The expected effort is a key influential factor of the behavioural intention to adopt organic fertiliser. Experience has a mediating effect on the relationship between social influence and behavioural intention to adopt improved seeds adapted to the agroecological conditions. The actual use behaviour is directly and positively affected by the behavioural intention, facilitating conditions and expected net benefit. These findings align with the UTAUT model, have useful implications for both farmers and decision-makers and offer directions for technical approaches to agroecological practices’ development.
Problems with Implementation of Sustainable Urban Mobility in Selected Polish Cities
Authors: Szagała Piotr , Brzeziński Andrzej , Dybicz Tomasz , Olszewski Piotr , Osińska Beata
Published: December 2024

The concepts of sustainable development and later sustainable mobility were used as principal ideas to formulate transport policies for Polish cities since the early 1990s. This paper aims to review the implementation of these policies over the past 30 years. It presents changes and developments in urban transport systems in selected Polish cities, together with shifts in the travel behavior of their residents. A major factor contributing to the increase in car travel is the growing rate of motorization. The current state of urban transport subsystems—including public transport, road networks, parking, and pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure—is examined. Additionally, related issues such as spatial planning, road safety, and air pollution are discussed. Although most city councils have adopted sustainable mobility policies, their implementation remains unsatisfactory. The paper concludes with insights from nearly three decades of experience, highlighting obstacles that hinder the achievement of intended goals, such as the lack of national legislation and guidance on sustainable urban mobility planning and limited political backing. However, two recently adopted national strategic documents offer hope for progress in addressing sustainable mobility challenges.
A Review of the Current Status and Prospects of Improving Indoor Environment for Lightweight Buildings in High-Altitude Cold Regions
Authors: Liao Ziming , Zhuang Chunlong , Huang Guangqin , Zhang Hongyu , Li Shengbo , Zhang Xinyi , Cheng Lei , Gan Fei
Published: December 2024

Lightweight structures, characterized by rapid assembly, are vital for creating habitats in outdoor environments, but their implementation in high-plateau cold regions encounters significant challenges in heating and ventilation. This paper systematically introduces the environmental characteristics and reviews the demands and primary influencing factors of indoor environments in these regions. The advantages and limitations of underground lightweight construction are also discussed. Current research indicates that evaluation methods for air quality in high-altitude cold regions require further development. Reducing building heat loss and minimizing cold air infiltration can enhance indoor environments and lower energy consumption. However, it is essential to establish effective ventilation strategies to prevent the accumulation of air pollutants. Then, potential passive ventilation improvement measures suitable for the environmental characteristics of high-cold plateaus are outlined. The application potential and possible limitations of these measures are summarized, providing references for future research. Finally, the main research methods for ventilation and heating within building interiors are organized and discussed. Findings indicate that computational fluid dynamics models are predominantly used, but they demonstrate low efficiency and high resource consumption for medium- to large-scale applications. Integrating these models with network models can achieve a balance of high computational accuracy and efficiency.
Prevention and Under-Reporting Effects of Food Waste Diaries
Authors: den Boer Jan , Skiba Agata , den Boer Emilia , Obersteiner Gudrun , Dyjakon Arkadiusz
Published: December 2024

One method of quantifying food wastage in households is a food waste diary. The goal of this study is to evaluate the reliability of food waste diaries as a methodology of waste-level measurements. This form of self-reporting is considered to underestimate the levels of food wastage because of three phenomena. The so-called self-selection bias is minimized by the chosen study set-up. The under-reporting and prevention effects were determined by measuring the food waste levels amongst 80 participating households. In week 1, the food waste amounts were determined by individual waste sorting analysis; in week 2, they used a food waste diary followed by a waste sorting analysis. The use of food waste diaries leads to a considerable prevention effect of 20%. Individual sorting analysis of uninformed households showed a generation of 59 kg∙inh−1∙yr−1 of avoidable food waste and 28 kg∙inh−1∙yr−1 of non-avoidable food waste. When using food waste diaries, these amounts dropped to 47 and 23 kg∙inh−1∙yr−1, respectively. In the study, instead of an under-reporting effect, the analyses showed an over-reporting of 7%. In medium-rise housing, the food wastage level is lower than in the overall population of the study, whereas both the prevention effect and the over-reporting is higher. Low-rise housing shows the highest initial food waste level. High-rise housing shows the smallest prevention effect. In the countryside, both the food wastage level and the prevention effect are significantly lower than elsewhere. In smaller towns, a slight under-reporting effect was observed; elsewhere there was an over-reporting effect. Further research might focus on if and how long the prevention effect of the food waste diaries lasts amongst Polish households.
Correction: Li et al. Analysis of Spatial and Temporal Characteristics of Citizens’ Mobility Based on E-Bike GPS Trajectory Data in Tengzhou City, China. Sustainability 2019, 11, 5003
Authors: Li Yixiao , Dai Zhaoxin , Zhu Lining , Liu Xiaoli
Published: December 2024

The author would like to make the following corrections about the published paper [...]
Measurement of Synergy Management Performance in Prefabricated Building Project Supply Chain
Authors: Liu Wei , Feng Zhongyi , Luo Xiao
Published: December 2024

Prefabricated building (PB) involves many participating enterprises. Its implementation faces many challenges, mainly in the areas of technology, cost, construction management, management of supply chain (SC), and sustainability. The purpose of synergy management of a prefabricated building project supply chain (PBPSC) is to help the whole SC obtain better benefits. This study establishes a measurement index system from the perspective of green sustainability in terms of cost control, technology, information, reliability of SC, and environmental protection. The COWA-CRITIC ideal point method is used to calculate the subjective and objective combination weights, and a cloud model based on this combination weight is constructed for measurement, which is validated by taking the project of a residential building as an example. The results are compared with those of other measurement models to verify the applicability of the measurement model of this study in the synergy management performance of the PBPSC. The sensitivity of the indexes within the five subsystems is analyzed using the one-way rotation OAT method to allow decision makers to identify the most sensitive indexes. This study shows that the synergy management performance of SC in this project is better. The measurement model used in this study is consistent with the results obtained from other measurement models and is in line with the actual situation. Sensitivity analysis using the one-factor rotation OAT method shows that among the secondary indexes, specialized technical staff is the most sensitive to changes in weights; among the primary indexes, cost control is the most sensitive to changes in weights. This provides a new method for measuring the synergy management performance of the PBPSC. Based on the results of this study, corresponding countermeasures are proposed for the synergy management of the PBPSC, which will provide a reference for the synergy management of SCs with similar projects in the future.