bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is Twelve Hours Really the Optimum Photoperiod for Promoting Flowering in Indoor-Grown Cultivars of Cannabis sativa?
Authors: Ahrens Ashleigh , Llewellyn David , Zheng Youbin
Published: July 2023

Cannabis sativa (“cannabis” hereafter) is a valuable recent addition to Canada’s economy with the legalization for recreational use in 2018. The vast majority of indoor cannabis cultivators use a 12-h light/12-h dark photoperiod to promote flowering. To test the hypothesis that robust flowering initiation responses can be promoted in indoor-grown cannabis cultivars under longer photoperiods, clones of ten drug-type cannabis cultivars were grown under six photoperiod treatments. All treatments were based on a standard 24-h day and included 12 h, 12.5 h, 13 h, 13.5 h, 14 h, and 15 h of light. The plants were grown in a growth chamber for 3 to 4 weeks, receiving an approximate light intensity of 360 µmol·m−2·s−1 from white LEDs. Flowering initiation, defined as the appearance of ≥3 pairs of stigmas at the apex of the primary shoot, occurred in all cultivars under all photoperiod treatments up to 14 h. Delays in flowering initiation time under 14 h vs. 12 h ranged from no delay to approximately 4 days, depending on the cultivar. Some cultivars also initiated flowering under 15 h, but floral tissues did not further develop beyond the initiation phase. Harvest metrics of some cultivars responded quadratically with increasing photoperiod, with ideal levels of key flowering parameters varying between 12 h and 13 h. These results suggest there is potential to increase yield in some indoor-grown cannabis cultivars by using longer than 12-h photoperiods during the flowering stage of production. This is attributed to the inherently higher daily light integrals. Indoor cannabis growers should investigate the photoperiod responses of their individual cultivars to determine the optimal photoperiod for producing floral biomass.
Epigenetic Regulation of Subgenomic Gene Expression in Allotetraploid Brassica napus
Authors: Hu Meimei , Xi Zengde , Wang Jianbo
Published: July 2023

The allotetraploid Brasscia napus has now been extensively utilized to reveal the genetic processes involved in hybridization and polyploidization. Here, transcriptome, WGBS, and Chip-Seq sequencing data were obtained to explore the regulatory consequences of DNA methylation and histone modifications on gene expression in B. napus. When compared with diploid parents, the expression levels of 14,266 (about 32%) and 17,054 (about 30%) genes were altered in the An and Cn subgenomes, respectively, and a total of 4982 DEGs were identified in B. napus. Genes with high or no expression in diploid parents often shifted to medium or low expression in B. napus. The number of genes with elevated methylation levels in gene promoters and gene body regions has increased in An and Cn subgenomes. The peak number of H3K4me3 modification increased, while the peak number of H3K27ac and H3K27me3 decreased in An and Cn subgenomes, and more genes that maintained parental histone modifications were identified in Cn subgenome. The differential multiples of DEGs in B. napus were positively correlated with DNA methylation levels in promoters and the gene body, and the differential multiples of these DEGs were also affected by the degree of variation in DNA methylation levels. Further analysis revealed that about 99% of DEGs were of DNA methylation, and about 68% of DEGs were modified by at least two types of DNA methylation and H3K4me3, H3K27ac, and H3K27me3 histone modifications. These results demonstrate that DNA methylation is crucial for gene expression regulation, and different epigenetic modifications have an essential function in regulating the differential expression of genes in B. napus.
Effects of Poloxamers as Excipients on the Physicomechanical Properties, Cellular Biocompatibility, and In Vitro Drug Release of Electrospun Polycaprolactone (PCL) Fibers
Authors: Faglie Addison , Emerine Rachel , Chou Shih-Feng
Published: July 2023

Electrospun microfibers are emerging as one of the advanced wound dressing materials for acute and/or chronic wounds, especially with their ability to carry drugs and excipients at a high loading while being able to deliver them in a controlled manner. Various attempts were made to include excipients in electrospun microfibers as wound dressing materials, and one of them is poloxamer, an amphiphilic polymer that exhibits wound debridement characteristics. In this study, we formulated two types of poloxamers (i.e., P188 and P338) at 30% (w/w) loading into electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) fibers to evaluate their physicomechanical properties, biocompatibility, and in vitro drug release of a model drug. Our findings showed that the incorporation of poloxamers in the PCL solutions during electrospinning resulted in a greater “whipping” process for a larger fiber deposition area. These fibers were mechanically stiffer and stronger, but less ductile as compared to the PCL control fibers. The incorporation of poloxamers into electrospun PCL fibers reduced the surface hydrophobicity of fibers according to our water contact angle studies and in vitro degradation studies. The fibers’ mechanical properties returned to those of the PCL control groups after “dumping” the poloxamers. Moreover, poloxamer-loaded PCL fibers accelerated the in vitro release of the model drug due to surface wettability. These poloxamer-loaded PCL fibers were biocompatible, as validated by MTT assays using A549 cells. Overall, we demonstrated the ability to achieve a high loading of poloxamers in electrospun fibers for wound dressing applications. This work provided the basic scientific understanding of materials science and bioengineering with an emphasis on the engineering applications of advanced wound dressings.
Capsicum chinense Polyphenols Extraction by Supercritical Fluids Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)
Authors: Avilés-Betanzos Kevin Alejandro , Scampicchio Matteo , Ferrentino Giovanna , Ramírez-Sucre Manuel Octavio , Rodríguez-Buenfil Ingrid Mayanin
Published: July 2023

Capsicum chinense, commonly known as the habanero pepper, is renowned for its culinary and medicinal value due to a great abundance of polyphenolic compounds. The pursuit of eco-friendly methods for extracting these metabolites, which produce high-purity extracts applicable to the food and pharmaceutical sectors, has led to the adoption of green technologies such as supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). In this methodology, by manipulating factors like temperature, pressure, and extraction time, the goal of producing extracts with elevated phenolic content from plant materials can be achieved. In this study, a central compound design (CCD) was conducted with the response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize the extraction of polyphenols from Capsicum chinense using supercritical fluids. The optimal conditions for total polyphenol extraction were determined as 63.1 °C, 1161.82 psi, and an extraction time of 132 min, with a total polyphenol content (TPC) of 1870 mg of gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 g extract. Additionally, concentration of several individual polyphenols were optimized, including catechin (236.27 mg/100 g extract, 62.8 °C, 1150 psi, and 132 min), chlorogenic acid (447.08 mg/100 g extract, 63.1 °C, 1150 psi, and 131.9 min), vanillic acid (136.38 mg/100 g extract, 41.9 °C, 1150 psi, and 132 min), diosmin + hesperidin (92.80 mg/100 g extract, 63 °C, 3200 psi, and 132 min), rutin (40 mg/100 g extract, 63.03 °C, 3200 psi, and 132 min), among others. These findings highlight the potential of supercritical fluid extraction for obtaining high yields of polyphenols from Capsicum chinese. The use of SFE-RSM also may optimize the extraction of specific phenolic compounds, and at the same time, it provides valuable insights for the development of extracts with enhanced bioactive properties for various applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Numerical Study of PBX 9501 Explosive Combustion Process in Confined Space
Authors: Hu Yupeng , Liu Jiawen , Wan Qiang , Zhang Meng , Li Minghai
Published: July 2023

Explosives combustion is primarily classified into conductive and convective combustion. In situations where confinement is sufficiently strong, the instantaneous high pressure generated by convective combustion in cracks can cause rapid fragmentation of the explosive matrix, resulting in a significant increase in the combustion surface area and triggering a high-intensity reaction with potentially catastrophic consequences. Therefore, the study of convective combustion in cracks is crucial for ensuring the safety of weapons and explosives. Previous simulation studies have primarily used finite element analysis software, which has excellent performance in handling explosive detonation processes. However, its accuracy in describing gas behavior between explosives and constrained containers is limited. This study divides the combustion process of a pre-cracked explosive in a confined space into four stages based on reasonable assumptions and simplifications. We developed a simulation method that combines the Arrhenius formula with the MWSD model to model the combustion rate of the explosive. By introducing a correction coefficient, Con, to the Arrhenius formula, the formula and MWSD model control the first and third stages of explosive combustion, respectively, while smoothly transitioning during the second stage. We used this method to numerically simulate the experimental results of Shang Hailin et al. on a crack width of 50 μm. The simulation results include the temperature field and pressure field of the first three stages of explosive combustion and the pressure rise curve of the pressure measurement point at the same location, as in the experiment. The simulation results are consistent with the experimental results.
Performance Measurement and Optimization for Sustainable Production Process Improvement—Volume II
Authors: Kim Changhee
Published: July 2023

Measuring performance and optimization for improving the sustainable production process is important to achieving a development plan, sustainable scheduling, cost reduction and green operations management [...]
Re-Examining the Cognitive Scale of the Developmental Support in Childcare
Authors: Shimmura Takahiro , Yasumura Akira
Published: July 2023

The Cognitive Scale of the Development Support in Childcare (CSDSC) developed in 2023 has adequate reliability and validity. However, it has some limitations in terms of its factor structure. Thus, we re-examined the structural factors, reliability, and validity of the scale using the same data (513 valid responses) as in the original study. In contrast to the two-factor model of the original scale, the revised scale has a one-factor structure. The scale’s Cronbach’s α value was 0.83. A confirmatory factor analysis used to assess whether a one- or two-factor structure was more appropriate for the scale demonstrated that the one-factor model was a better fit, and the revised scale had a higher degree of validity than the original one. The results indicate that the revised and shortened CSDSC has sufficiently high levels of reliability and validity, suggesting that the scale is appropriate for evaluating nursery teachers’ values regarding child development support in childcare.
Predicting the Need for Insulin Treatment: A Risk-Based Approach to the Management of Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Koefoed Anna S. , McIntyre H. David , Gibbons Kristen S. , Poulsen Charlotte W. , Fuglsang Jens , Ovesen Per G.
Published: July 2023

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes including large for gestational age infants. Individualizing the management of women with GDM based on the likelihood of needing insulin may improve pregnancy outcomes. The aim of this study is to identify characteristics associated with a need for insulin in women with GDM, and to develop a predictive model for insulin requirement. A historical cohort study was conducted among all women with GDM in a singleton pregnancy at Aarhus University Hospital from 2012 to 2017. Variables associated with insulin treatment were identified through multivariable logistic regression. The variables were dichotomized and included in a point scoring system aiming to predict the likelihood of needing insulin. Seven variables were associated with needing insulin: family history of diabetes, current smoker, multiparity, prepregnancy body mass index, gestational age at the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), 2-h glucose value at the OGTT and hemoglobin A1c at diagnosis. A risk score was calculated assigning one point to each variable. On ROC analysis, a cut-off value of ≥3 points optimally predicted a requirement for insulin. This prediction model may be clinically useful to predict requirement for insulin treatment after further validation.
Dataset Analysis of the Risks for Russian IT Companies Amid the COVID-19 Crisis
Authors: Vorozheykina Tatiana M. , Shchetinin Aleksei Yu. , Semenova Galina N. , Vakhrushina Maria A.
Published: July 2023

The motivation for this research was to strive towards specifying the risks for businesses under the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic and crisis in the IT sector in Russia. This paper is aimed at performing a dataset analysis of the risks for Russian IT companies amid the COVID-19 crisis. The sample contains the top 100 largest IT companies in Russia in 2020 and covers the data on these companies for 2019–2020. The influence of the COVID-19 crisis pandemic on the risks for IT companies in Russia is assessed with the help of the authors’ methodological approach to the dataset analytics of companies’ risks with the use of the method of trend analysis, analysis of variance and the hierarchical synthesis concept by T. Saaty. A specific feature of the authors’ methodological approach is its taking into account of the pre-crisis level of risks for companies. Due to this, the authors’ methodological approach allows for the most precise and correct determination of the scale and character of the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic and crisis on the risks for companies. The role of human resources in the management of risks for IT companies under the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic and crisis in Russia is determined with the help of regression analysis; the regularity of the change in revenue, and the position of the company in the ranking (its competitiveness) in terms of the growth of the number of employees, are described mathematically. The key conclusions are that the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic and crisis on the risks for IT companies in Russia in 2020 was weak, and human resources played an important role in risk management. The theoretical significance of the paper lies in its rethinking of human resources management of Russian IT companies from the position of risk amid the COVID-19 crisis. The practical significance of the authors’ conclusions lies in the discovery of the high risk resilience of Russian IT companies to the pandemic and the formation of their risk profile amid the COVID-19 crisis, in which the main, though low, risk is the risk of reduction in competitiveness, whilst the risk of reduction in revenue is minimal.
Improvement of pBRDF Model for Target Surface Based on Diffraction and Transmission Effects
Authors: Fu Qiang , Liu Xuanwei , Yang Di , Zhan Juntong , Liu Qing , Zhang Su , Wang Fang , Duan Jin , Li Yingchao , Jiang Huilin
Published: July 2023

The polarised Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (pBRDF) model relates the properties of target materials to the polarisation information of the incident and reflected light. The Priest–Germer (P-G) model was the first strictly pBRDF model to be officially released; however, some shortcomings remain. In this study, we first analyse the assumption framework of the P-G model, analyse the assumption framework to determine the imperfections in the framework, supplement the boundary conditions of the model for diffraction and transmission effects, and propose and construct a polarised pBTDF model based on the existing P-G model and parameter inversion; the output results of the model are compared with the experimental data through simulation. The results show that the intensity relative error and Degree of Linear Polarisation relative error of the target can be reduced by more than 40%, using the improved model, proving its accuracy and precision.
Enhanced Oil Spill Remediation Using Environmentally Asymmetric Dicationic Ionic Liquids: Synthesis, Characterization, and Evaluation
Authors: Alharthy Rima D. , El Shafiee C. E. , Nessim M. I. , Abdallah R. I. , Moustafa Y. M. , Wafeek M. , Ismail D. A. , Khalil M. M. H. , El-Nagar R. A.
Published: July 2023

The disastrous consequences for society—economically, environmentally, and socially—caused by oil spills encouraged us to treat this problem. The target of this work is to synthesize new amphiphilic dicationic ionic liquids (Ia, Ib, and Ic) and evaluate them spectroscopically and gravimetrically as potential oil spill dispersants at different temperatures to cover cold and warm areas. The synthesized ILs were well characterized by different tools for analysis of their surface activity and thermal stability. Ia, Ib, and Ic showed good dispersion effects, which were recorded to be 5.32, 20.45, and 33.61% for Ia, Ib, and Ic, respectively, at 10 °C and 12.28, 52.55, and 66.80% for Ia, Ib, and Ic, respectively, at 30 °C with a dispersant-to-oil ratio (DOR) of 0.8:10 (wt.%). Acute toxicity tests were elucidated against Nile tilapia and Oreochromis niloticus fish and confirmed their slight toxicity by determining a LC50 value greater than 100 ppm after 96 h, which recorded 13.25, 17.75, and 37.5 mg/L for Ia, Ib, and Ic, respectively. Overall, the new synthesized ILs can be represented as sustainable materials for toxic chemicals to disperse oil spills.
The Energy-Saving Potential of Air-Side Economisers in Modular Data Centres: Analysis of Opportunities and Risks in Different Climates
Authors: Badiei Ali , Jadowski Eric , Sadati Saba , Beizaee Arash , Li Jing , Khajenoori Leila , Nasriani Hamid Reza , Li Guiqiang , Xiao Xin
Published: July 2023

This study examines the feasibility of utilising outside air for ‘free cooling’ in modular data centres through the implementation of an air-side economiser, as an alternative to traditional mechanical cooling systems. The objective is to offset the energy consumption associated with cooling by leveraging the natural cooling capacity of the ambient air. To investigate this potential, a 90-kW modular data centre is employed as the base case for model validation and analysis of energy reduction possibilities. The research employs dynamic thermal modelling techniques to assess the efficacy of the air-side economiser in four distinct climatic zones: Stockholm, Dubai, San Francisco, and Singapore, representing diverse worldwide climates. The model is meticulously calibrated and validated using power usage effectiveness (PUE) values obtained from the Open Compute Project. Simulation runs are conducted to evaluate the energy-reduction potential achievable with the air-side economiser compared to conventional mechanical air-conditioning systems. The results indicate significant energy reductions of up to 86% in moderate climates, while minimal reductions are observed in dry and hot climates. This comprehensive analysis offers valuable insights into the intricate relationship between modular data centres, their operational characteristics, and the viability of employing air-side economisers for free cooling and energy efficiency across different climatic conditions. The contribution of this publication to this field of science lies in its exploration of the practicality and energy-saving potential of air-side economisers in modular data centres. By utilising dynamic thermal modelling and empirical validation, this study provides evidence-based insights into the effectiveness of this cooling strategy, shedding light on its applicability in various climates. The findings contribute to the understanding of energy-efficient cooling solutions in data-centre design and operation, paving the way for more sustainable practices in the field.
Relationship between Organizational Climate and Service Performance in South Korea and China
Authors: Quan Xuezhe , Choi Myeong-Cheol , Tan Xiao
Published: July 2023

Both South Korea and China have collective cultures; however, there are significant differences in employee behavior due to cultural, economic, and environmental factors. This study explores the influence of organizational climate on employee innovative behavior and service performance using a competitive value model, as well as the mediating effects of social capital and organizational silence. Adopting the interpersonal relationship, rational goal, and internal process approaches, it focuses on three aspects: supervisory support, pressure to produce, and formalization. A total of 773 valid questionnaires were collected from four- and five-star hotels in South Korea and China, and the data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS. The results showed that supervisory support and pressure to produce positively affected employee social capital, thereby affecting their service performance. Formalization positively affected organizational silence and negatively affected employees’ innovative behaviors. This study confirmed the mediating effects of social capital and organizational silence in the organizational environment. The positive effects of supervisory support and pressure to produce on social capital were similar in South Korea and China. However, among the effects of organizational silence, Korean employees were more likely to benefit from formalization. This study identified the differences in organizational climate and organizational performance between South Korea and China and provides implications for enterprises’ sustainable development.
Enhancing Water Management in Shale Gas Extraction through Rectangular Pulse Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Badjadi Mohammed Ali , Zhu Hanhua , Zhang Cunquan , Naseem Muhammad Hamza
Published: July 2023

Although conventional hydraulic fracturing techniques have revolutionized shale gas development, they have raised concerns regarding water management and environmental impacts. This research introduces an innovative step-rectangular pulse hydraulic fracturing method to optimize water usage and reduce environmental hazards in shale gas extraction. The method involves the application of lower-energy fluid in a step-rectangular pulse pattern, which results in higher pressures, more intricate fractures, and improved water management. A comprehensive analysis of the propagation and attenuation characteristics of this technique is conducted using a combination of a two-dimensional pulse transient flow equation with damping, software numerical simulations, and theoretical analysis. The study reveals that the step rectangular pulse hydraulic fracturing method offers superior pressurization and more complex fracture networks in shale reservoirs while lowering water consumption by 20% less than conventional methods and increasing shale gas production by 12%. Through identifying optimal pulse parameters, this research provides valuable guidance for field implementation, promoting efficient water management and environmental sustainability in hydraulic fracturing operations. This novel approach to hydraulic fracturing has the potential to significantly advance the industry’s efforts to address water management challenges and mitigate environmental risks associated with shale gas extraction.
The Effect of Pre-Service Teachers’ Family Adaptation on Anxiety: A Moderated Mediating Effect
Authors: Li Xuejiao , Guan Xiangli , Wang Jingjing , Zhang Yaqi , Ma Miqi , Pu Tong , Jobe Mary C. , Ahmed Md Zahir
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to examine the effects of family adaptation on anxiety, and the role of Zhongyong thinking style and intentional self-regulation in this association. A hypothetical model of the relationship between family adaptation, Zhongyong thinking style, intentional self-regulation, and anxiety was tested. A convenience sampling method was used to survey 1192 pre-service teachers in Yunnan Province on a self-report scale. Data were collected using the Family Adaptability Scale, the Zhongyong Thinking Style Scale, the Adolescent Intentional Self-Regulation Questionnaire, and the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale. The results show significant positive correlations among the three variables of family adaptation, Zhongyong thinking style and intentional self-regulation, and significant negative correlations with anxiety, respectively. Pre-service teachers’ family adaptation had a direct positive predictive effect on anxiety, which in turn indirectly predicted anxiety through the mediating effect of the Zhongyong thinking style, and individuals’ intentional self-regulation had a moderating effect of family adaptation on the Zhongyong thinking style. This study shows how family adaptation affects pre-service teachers’ anxiety; the results of this study also help to demonstrate the academic value of family adaptation and Zhongyong thinking style in optimally reducing pre-service teachers’ anxiety, and thus promoting good psychological status.
Deep Learning Method for Evaluating Photovoltaic Potential of Rural Land Use Types
Authors: Li Zhixin , Zhang Chen , Yu Zejun , Zhang Hong , Jiang Haihua
Published: July 2023

Rooftop photovoltaic (PV) power generation uses building roofs to generate electricity by laying PV panels. Rural rooftops are less shaded and have a regular shape, which is favorable for laying PV panels. However, because of the relative lack of information on buildings in rural areas, there are fewer methods to assess the utilization potential of PV on rural buildings, and most studies focus on urban buildings. In addition, in rural areas, concentrated ground-mounted PV plants can be built on wastelands, hillsides, and farmlands. To facilitate the overall planning and synergistic layout of rural PV utilization, we propose a new workflow to identify different types of surfaces (including building roofs, wastelands, water surfaces, etc.) by applying a deep learning approach to count the PV potential of different surfaces in rural areas. This method can be used to estimate the spatial distribution of rural PV development potential from publicly available satellite images. In this paper, 10 km2 of land in Wuhan is used as an example. The results show that the total PV potential in the study area could reach 198.02 GWh/year, including 4.69 GWh/year for BIPV, 159.91 GWh/year for FSPV, and 33.43 GWh/year for LSPV. Considering the development cost of different land types, several timespans (such as short-, medium-, and long-term) of PV development plans for rural areas can be considered. The method and results provide tools and data for the assessment of PV potential in rural areas and can be used as a reference for the development of village master plans and PV development plans.
Power-Weighted Prediction of Photovoltaic Power Generation in the Context of Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Zhu Hongbo , Zhang Bing , Song Weidong , Dai Jiguang , Lan Xinmei , Chang Xinyue
Published: July 2023

With the popularization of solar energy development and utilization, photovoltaic power generation is widely used in countries around the world and is increasingly becoming an important part of new energy generation. However, it cannot be ignored that changes in solar radiation and meteorological conditions can cause volatility and intermittency in power generation, which, in turn, affects the stability and security of the power grid. Therefore, many studies aim to solve this problem by constructing accurate power prediction models for PV plants. However, most studies focus on adjusting the photovoltaic power station prediction model structure and parameters to achieve a high prediction accuracy. Few studies have examined how the various parameters affect the output of photovoltaic power plants, as well as how significantly and effectively these elements influence the forecast accuracy. In this study, we evaluate the correlations between solar irradiance intensity (GHI), atmospheric density (ρ), cloudiness (CC), wind speed (WS), relative humidity (RH), and ambient temperature (T) and a photovoltaic power station using a Pearson correlation analysis and remove the factors that have little correlation. The direct and indirect effects of the five factors other than wind speed (CC) on the photovoltaic power station are then estimated based on structural equation modeling; the indirect effects are generated by the interaction between the variables and ultimately have an impact on the power of the photovoltaic power station. Particle swarm optimization-based support vector regression (PSO-SVR) and variable weights utilizing the Mahalanobis distance were used to estimate the power of the photovoltaic power station over a short period of time, based on the contribution of the various solar radiation and climatic elements. Experiments were conducted on the basis of the measured data from a distributed photovoltaic power station in Changzhou, Jiangsu province, China. The results demonstrate that the short-term power of a photovoltaic power station is significantly influenced by the global horizontal irradiance (GHI), ambient temperature (T), and atmospheric density (ρ). Furthermore, the results also demonstrate how calculating the relative importance of the various contributing factors can help to improve the accuracy when estimating how powerful a photovoltaic power station will be. The multiple weighted regression model described in this study is demonstrated to be superior to the standard multiple regression model (PSO-SVR). The multiple weighted regression model resulted in a 7.2% increase in R2, a 10.7% decrease in the sum of squared error (SSE), a 2.2% decrease in the root mean square error (RMSE), and a 2.06% decrease in the continuous ranked probability score (CRPS).
Energy and Fuel Consumption of a New Concept of Hydro-Mechanical Tractor Transmission
Authors: Zhao Yehui , Chen Xiaohan , Song Yue , Wang Guangming , Zhai Zhiqiang
Published: July 2023

Tractors equipped with hydro-mechanical transmissions (HMTs) typically deliver excellent fuel-saving performance but are expensive. To improve the fuel economy of cheaper tractors, the authors of this study have designed an HMT for a tractor that uses a simple, single planetary gear to merge the power and analyze its consumption of energy and fuel. First, we introduce the principle of transmission of the HMT and formulate a model to calculate its speed, torque, and efficiency. Second, we analyze the parasitic power of the HMT and simulate its characteristics of efficiency. Finally, we compare the efficiency of transmission and fuel consumption of HMTs with a single planetary gear and Simpson planetary gears. The results showed that parasitic power was obtained when the displacement of the variable pump was negative and the maximum ratio of hydrostatic power in each range was 45–46%. The highest efficiency of the proposed HMT in ranges RL (low range) and RH (high range) were 87% and 89%, respectively. It has a simpler structure than the HMT with Simpson planetary gears and consumes lower amounts of energy and fuel. These attributes make it suitable for use as a transmission system for large- and medium-power tractors with a continuously variable transmission.
The Role of Managers in Corporate Change Management: A Bibliometric Review
Authors: Gutiérrez-Iñiguez Ángel , Collado-Agudo Jesús , Rialp-Criado Josep
Published: July 2023

In response to a business context characterized by change, a large number of approaches from different areas of knowledge has developed in the literature without an integrative framework. For this reason, the purpose of this research is to provide a comprehensive overview of change management literature. Taking as its basis a bibliometric study on change management, this article offers a classification of these approaches that provides an overview of the current state of the research on the role of managers in change management. Four hundred and ninety-three scientific documents (1333 keywords and 883 authors) were retrieved from the Web of Science database from 2013 to 2022. Our results identify three main topics underlying change management literature: organizational change, management and performance. The theoretical and practical implications of each dimension are analyzed and allow us to propose a classification of the literature on corporate change management. Furthermore, the implications of sustainability are also explained.
Location Suitability Evaluation and Spatial Optimization of Self-Driving Camps in Xinjiang
Authors: Li Cai , Guo Chengjie
Published: July 2023

Irregular tourism seasons and insufficient momentum in the development of new tourism modes disrupt the supply and demand balance between the development of self-driving tourism and the number of corresponding service facilities in Xinjiang. This constrains the growth of regional comprehensive benefits. This paper constructs an index system for evaluating the location suitability of self-driving camps in Xinjiang by the Delphi method; obtains DEM data, GIS data, POI data, and statistical data; and uses a combination of subjective and objective evaluation to calculate index weights. ArcGIS raster analysis and the P-median model were used to study the location suitability and spatial optimization strategies for self-driving tourism camps in Xinjiang. The results of this study are as follows: (1) An evaluation system for the suitability of self-driving camp locations in Xinjiang is constructed from the supply side and the demand side. (2) Self-driving camps in Xinjiang have a large supply capacity gap between counties and cities. (3) The overall suitability of the demand for self-driving camps in Xinjiang is low to moderate. (4) There exists a spatial imbalance in the suitability of the supply and demand for self-driving tourism camps in Xinjiang. (5) A total of 65 campsites were proposed for self-driving tours in Xinjiang considering spatial optimization. (6) Xinjiang should strengthen the matching of self-driving camps with tourism resources and traffic routes, and produce self-driving tour business maps with complete self-driving tour supporting facilities and services.
A Bibliometric Review of Education for Sustainable Development, 1992–2022
Authors: Yang Chuang , Xiu Qi
Published: July 2023

The United Nations promulgated Agenda 21 in 1992, thereby recognizing education as the pathway to a more sustainable future. The launch of education for sustainable development (ESD) activities and the growing number of related studies have created an urgent need for a thorough and comprehensive review of the field. Based on 2779 publications from the related literature in the SSCI index from 1992 to 2022, this study outlines the growth characteristics, research areas, and research methods, and conducts a statistical analysis of the contributing forces of countries, institutions, and authors to demonstrate that the literature is mainly generated in developed countries. Meanwhile, this study identifies ten core journals and finds that highly productive institutions are characterized by close relationships and long-term in-depth research and collaboration with authors. Finally, a combination of Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) theme models, manual coding, and pyLDAvis visualization tools identified five research themes, including foundations of ESD research, environmental education, higher education for sustainable development, sustainable development capacity, and educational technology innovation. The intellectual structure of research in this emerging interdisciplinary field is revealed, and this study provides a reference for scholars in this discipline.
How Does the Integration of Cultural Tourism Industry Affect Rural Revitalization? The Mediating Effect of New Urbanization
Authors: Fang Linqing , Liu Zhihao , Jin Caiyu
Published: July 2023

The development and integration of industries have promoted economic growth and gradually become an important perspective to understand the country’s modernized construction. The cultural industry and the tourism industry are naturally coupled, which is an important part of the process of industrial integration. In addition, the country’s drive towards modernization needs to improve the overall level of industrial integration, and rural revitalization is one of the key links to this. Therefore, to explore the relationship between the integration of cultural tourism industry and rural revitalization, this study collected the panel data of 31 provincial-level regions in China from 2005 to 2021. Based on the entropy method and the coupling coordination degree model, this study constructs an evaluation index system, including cultural industry, tourism industry, the integration of cultural tourism industry, new urbanization, and rural revitalization, and obtains the comprehensive scores of each. Furthermore, the study discusses the path selection and future development direction of rural revitalization through the integration of a cultural tourism industry. The conclusions are drawn as follows: (1) The development of the cultural and tourism industries can significantly promote the development of new urbanization and rural revitalization; (2) the integration of cultural tourism industry has a positive effect on rural revitalization; (3) new urbanization plays a partial mediating role in the relationship between the integration of cultural tourism industry and rural revitalization; (4) new urbanization has a masking effect on the influence of the integration of cultural tourism industry on rural revitalization; and (5) the extent of these effects varies by region. Finally, this study not only deepens the understanding of rural revitalization from the perspective of industrial development and integration, but also provides an empirical basis for the country, local governments, and enterprises to promote rural revitalization.
A Study on the Experience Economy Examining a Robot Service in the Restaurant Industry Based on Demographic Characteristics
Authors: Joo Kyuhyeon , Kim Heather M. , Hwang Jinsoo
Published: July 2023

The experience economy of service robots in the restaurant industry was researched in the present study. The dimensions of the experience economy, which include esthetics, entertainment, education, and escapism, were assessed based on customer demographics. Additionally, this study explored how the four sub-dimensions of the experience economy affects word-of-mouth intentions. The study analyzed 292 surveys. Significant differences in the experience economy were found in terms of gender, education, and monthly income, according to the statistical results. Lastly, the results of the regression analysis revealed that the experience economy’s sub-dimensions have a positive effect on word-of-mouth intentions. This is the first study to examine the experience economy of robot services, and thus, it provides theoretical contributions and practical suggestions for the restaurant industry.
Could the Lacking Absorption Capacity of the Inflowing Capital Be the Real Cause of the Resource Curse?—A Case Study of Transition Economies
Authors: Hasanli Yadulla , Sadik-Zada Elkhan Richard , Ismayilova Simrah , Rahimli Günay , Ismayilova Farida
Published: July 2023

The present study proposes an alternative explanation for the negative natural-resource-growth nexus. Based on the theoretical analysis, the study shows that a balanced capital–labor ratio plays an essential role in the absorption of complex capital goods. It estimates the parameters of the constant elasticity of the substitution production function in Mathcad using nonlinear least squares, i.e., an approximate Marquardt method of optimization. The empirical analysis is based on the time-series data of these countries for the time interval between 2000 and 2020. We conducted analyses by calculating the elasticity of substitution between capital and labor. Specifically, for these countries, the elasticity of substitution of capital and labor appeared to be less than one, which indicates a lack of labor, or, more precisely, a qualified labor force. Each of these countries receives windfall profits from the exploitation of natural resources, which greatly influences the import of capital-intensive products of complex technologies—in other words, the import of capital. However, the lack of an adequate labor force that could utilize the increased capital led to a decrease in the elasticity of capital and labor substitution. A comparison of the optimal and the observed capital–labor ratio coefficient shows that this coefficient is significantly higher than optimal in all three countries. Therefore, while keeping the wage fund in balance with fixed capital costs, investments in the knowledge economy and human capital appear to be the preferred areas for the efficient allocation of oil revenues.
Impact of Rock Fragment Shapes and Soil Cohesion on Runoff Generation and Sediment Yield of Steep Cut Slopes under Heavy Rainfall Conditions
Authors: Luo Jing , Yang Peng , Pei Xiangjun , Li Junhao , Shan Shihan , Duan Yuying , Huang Yingping
Published: July 2023

The erodibility and erosion resistance of Quaternary sediments play a pivotal role in both the hydrologic and erosion processes of soil cut slopes. To investigate the runoff and sediment yield of soil cut slopes along the Pai-Mo road, we performed indoor simulated rainfall experiments under a 50° steep slope and high rainfall intensity (120 mm/h), based on the area’s climatic characteristics and Quaternary sediment properties. The experiments included various rock fragment contents (30%, 40%, and 50%), different levels of rock fragment roundness (i.e., rounded gravel, angular gravel), and varying soil cohesion. The results indicated that the average infiltration rate of the uncemented rounded gravel soil slope (URGSS) was higher than that of the uncemented angular gravel soil slope (UAGSS), resulting in less runoff and a delayed initial runoff time. The runoff shear stress, runoff power, drag coefficient, and Reynolds number of the URGSS were smaller than those of the UAGSS. In contrast, the Froude number and flow velocity of the URGSS were larger, resulting in a stronger runoff erosion capacity. The sediment yield of the URGSS was approximately two times that of the UAGSS, and the cumulative sediment yield was about 20% higher. The cemented angular gravel soil slope (CAGSS) had a larger runoff rate, runoff shear stress, runoff power, and flow velocity than those of the UAGSS, leading to less sediment yield. Overall, a more rounded shape and a larger radius of curvature of the spherical particles resulted in stronger erosion, due to local turbulence. Therefore, the rill density and cumulative sediment yield of the steep alluvial cut slope were greater than that of the steep colluvial cut slope under heavy rainfall. Moreover, due to its strong cohesion, only raindrop splash erosion and inter-rill erosion occurred on the steep moraine cut slopes under heavy rainfall.
The Spatial Transformation of the Villages around Chang’an Cultural Heritage Site Based on Actor Network Theory
Authors: Ji Jiahui , Heath Tim
Published: July 2023

The villages around a Cultural Heritage Site (CHS), despite being influenced by long-term restrictive conservation policies for protecting their heritage’s integrity, are often excluded from heritage recognition. They do, however, have opportunities to develop tourism and become places involving multiple stakeholders to alleviate the tension between cultural heritage conservation and the sustainable development of the village. As a result, the villages around a Cultural Heritage Site have been faced with much more complex situations than the sites themselves, as more stakeholders participate in and invoke the profound transformation of the space. To clarify this complex spatial transformation and bring about sustainable development, Lougetai village around the Chang’an Cultural Heritage Site, one of the heritage-led tourism villages, is taken as a case study to elucidate the spatial mechanism by applying Actor Network Theory. To achieve this, the multiple actors involved in the process of tourism projects and concomitant spatial transformation are investigated based on: (i) an archival study; (ii) participant observation; and (iii) semi-structured interviews. Our findings are as follows: (1) Lougetai village experienced profound spatial transformation into a heritage-led tourism destination, with residential, communication, and production spaces added, together with commercial space; (2) the process of constructing the heritage-led tourism destination included a heterogeneous actor network in which the Weiyang District Government played a vital role in enrolling other actors to participate, including the village committee, professionals, investors, tourists, and local people; (3) in the process of constructing the heritage-led tourism destination, the interests, intentions, and actions of heterogeneous actors can affect the village’s development. This complicated mechanism is identified from a detailed analysis of the implemented strategies and interests of diverse actors. These findings provide an understanding of the process of establishing heritage-led tourism and can be used to support future research in relation to the sustainable development of the villages around a Cultural Heritage Site.
On the Cube Polynomials of Padovan and Lucas–Padovan Cubes
Authors: Lee Gwangyeon , Kim Jinsoo
Published: July 2023

The hypercube is one of the best models for the network topology of a distributed system. Recently, Padovan cubes and Lucas–Padovan cubes have been introduced as new interconnection topologies. Despite their asymmetric and relatively sparse interconnections, the Padovan and Lucas–Padovan cubes are shown to possess attractive recurrent structures. In this paper, we determine the cube polynomial of Padovan cubes and Lucas–Padovan cubes, as well as the generating functions for the sequences of these cubes. Several explicit formulas for the coefficients of these polynomials are obtained, in particular, they can be expressed with convolved Padovan numbers and Lucas–Padovan numbers. In particular, the coefficients of the cube polynomials represent the number of hypercubes, a symmetry inherent in Padovan and Lucas–Padovan cubes. Therefore, cube polynomials are very important for characterizing these cubes.
A New Asymmetric Modified Topp–Leone Distribution: Classical and Bayesian Estimations under Progressive Type-II Censored Data with Applications
Authors: Elgarhy Mohammed , Alsadat Najwan , Hassan Amal S. , Chesneau Christophe , Abdel-Hamid Alaa H.
Published: July 2023

In this article, a new modified asymmetric Topp–Leone distribution is created and developed from a theoretical and inferential point of view. It has the feature of extending the remarkable flexibility of a special one-shape-parameter lifetime distribution, known as the inverse Topp–Leone distribution, to the bounded interval [0, 1]. The probability density function of the proposed truncated distribution has the potential to be unimodal and right-skewed, with different levels of asymmetry. On the other hand, its hazard rate function can be increasingly shaped. Some important statistical properties are examined, including several different measures. In practice, the estimation of the model parameters under progressive type-II censoring is considered. To achieve this aim, the maximum likelihood, maximum product of spacings, and Bayesian approaches are used. The Markov chain Monte Carlo approach is employed to produce the Bayesian estimates under the squared error and linear exponential loss functions. Some simulation studies to evaluate these approaches are discussed. Two applications based on real-world datasets—one on the times of infection, and the second dataset is on trading economics credit rating—are considered. Thanks to its flexible asymmetric features, the new model is preferable to some known comparable models.