bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superelastic NiTi Functional Components by High-Precision Laser Powder Bed Fusion Process: The Critical Roles of Energy Density and Minimal Feature Size
Authors: Qu Shuo , Wang Liqiang , Ding Junhao , Fu Jin , Gao Shiming , Ma Qingping , Liu Hui , Fu Mingwang , Lu Yang , Song Xu
Published: July 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) was recently developed for building intricate devices in many fields. Especially for laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), its high-precision manufacturing capability and adjustable process parameters are involved in tailoring the performance of functional components. NiTi is well-known as smart material utilized widely in biomedical fields thanks to its unique superelastic and shape-memory performance. However, the properties of NiTi are extremely sensitive to material microstructure, which is mainly determined by process parameters in LPBF. In this work, we choose a unique NiTi intricate component: a robotic cannula tip, in which material superelasticity is a crucial requirement as the optimal object. First, the process window was confirmed by printing thin walls and bulk structures. Then, for optimizing parameters precisely, a Gyroid-type sheet triply periodic minimal-surface (G-TPMS) structure was proposed as the standard test sample. Finally, we verified that when the wall thickness of the G-TPMS structure is smaller than 130 μm, the optimal energy density changes from 167 J/m3 to 140 J/m3 owing to the lower cooling rate of thinner walls. To sum up, this work puts forward a novel process optimization methodology and provides the processing guidelines for intricate NiTi components by LPBF.
Effects of Six Processing Parameters on the Size of PCL Fibers Prepared by Melt Electrospinning Writing
Authors: Xie Yu , Fang Qi , Zhao Han , Li Yang , Lin Zhihai , Chen Jianxiong
Published: July 2023

Melt electrospinning writing is a new and promising method for fabricating micro/nanofibers, which has shown great prospects in the biomedical fields such as 3D printing of porous scaffolds. The diameter of the melt electrospinning writing fiber can determine the resolution of the microstructure; thus, the controllability of the fiber diameter is of great significance to the whole fabrication process. In this paper, an orthogonal design experiment (six factors, three levels) was used to explore the impacts of six melt electrospinning parameters (melt temperature, collector speed, tip-to-collector distance, melt flow rate, voltage, and needle gauge) on the fiber diameter. In this experiment, the diameter of fibers obtained with the designed experimental parameters and conditions varied from 10.30 μm to 20.02 μm. The range analysis of orthogonal test results showed that the melt flow rate was the most important factor influencing the diameter of melt electrospinning writing fiber, while the voltage was the least influential factor. The variance analysis of orthogonal test results showed that melt temperature, collector velocity, tip-to-collector distance and melt flow rate had a significant influence on the diameter of melt electrospinning writing fiber. On the basis of the first-order regression equation, the fiber diameter of poly-ε-caprolactone can be accurately controlled, thus improving the engineering applications of poly-ε-caprolactone.
Nanoparticulate Perovskites for Photocatalytic Water Reduction
Authors: Freimann Sven A. , Housecroft Catherine E. , Constable Edwin C.
Published: July 2023

SrTiO3 and BaTiO3 nanoparticles (NPs) were activated using H2O2 or aqueous HNO3, and pristine and activated NPs were functionalized with a 2,2′-bipyridine phosphonic acid anchoring ligand (1), followed by reaction with RuCl3.3H2O and bpy, RhCl3.3H2O and bpy, or RuCl3.3H2O. The surface-bound metal complex functionalized NPs were used for the photogeneration of H2 from water, and their activity was compared to related systems using TiO2 NPs. The role of pH during surface complexation was found to be important. The NPs were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and solid-state absorption spectroscopies, thermogravimetric analysis mass spectrometry (TGA-MS), and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS), and the dihydrogen generation was analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Our findings indicate that extensively functionalized SrTiO3 or BaTiO3 NPs may perform better than TiO2 NPs for water reduction.
Remanence Increase in SrFe12O19/Fe Exchange-Decoupled Hard-Soft Composite Magnets Owing to Dipolar Interactions
Authors: Guzmán-Mínguez Jesús Carlos , Granados-Miralles Cecilia , Kuntschke Patrick , de Julián Fernández César , Erokhin Sergey , Berkov Dmitry , Schliesch Thomas , Fernández Jose Francisco , Quesada Adrián
Published: July 2023

In the search for improved permanent magnets, fueled by the geostrategic and environmental issues associated with rare-earth-based magnets, magnetically hard (high anisotropy)-soft (high magnetization) composite magnets hold promise as alternative magnets that could replace modern permanent magnets, such as rare-earth-based and ceramic magnets, in certain applications. However, so far, the magnetic properties reported for hard-soft composites have been underwhelming. Here, an attempt to further understand the correlation between magnetic and microstructural properties in strontium ferrite-based composites, hard SrFe12O19 (SFO) ceramics with different contents of Fe particles as soft phase, both in powder and in dense injection molded magnets, is presented. In addition, the influence of soft phase particle dimension, in the nano- and micron-sized regimes, on these properties is studied. While Fe and SFO are not exchange-coupled in our magnets, a remanence that is higher than expected is measured. In fact, in composite injection molded anisotropic (magnetically oriented) magnets, remanence is improved by 2.4% with respect to a pure ferrite identical magnet. The analysis of the experimental results in combination with micromagnetic simulations allows us to establish that the type of interaction between hard and soft phases is of a dipolar nature, and is responsible for the alignment of a fraction of the soft spins with the magnetization of the hard. The mechanism unraveled in this work has implications for the development of novel hard-soft permanent magnets.
A Review of the Aquatic Environmental Transformations of Engineered Nanomaterials
Authors: Harrison Daniel Mark , Briffa Sophie M. , Mazzonello Antonino , Valsami-Jones Eugenia
Published: July 2023

Once released into the environment, engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) undergo complex interactions and transformations that determine their fate, exposure concentration, form, and likely impact on biota. Transformations are physical, chemical, or biological changes that occur to the ENM or the ENM coating. Over time, these transformations have an impact on their behaviour and properties. The interactions and transformations of ENMs in the environment depend on their pristine physical and chemical characteristics and the environmental or biological compartment into which they are released. The uniqueness of each ENM property or lifecycle results in a great deal of complexity. Even small changes may have a significant impact on their potential transformations. This review outlines the key influences and outcomes of ENM evolution pathways in aquatic environments and provides an assessment of potential environmental transformations, focusing on key chemical, physical, and biological processes. By obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the potential environmental transformations that nanomaterials can undergo, more realistic models of their probable environmental behaviour and potential impact can be developed. This will, in turn, be crucial in supporting regulatory bodies in their efforts to develop environmental policy in the field of nanotechnology.
Cs2TiI6 (Cs2TiIxBr6-x) Halide Perovskite Solar Cell and Its Point Defect Analysis
Authors: Urmi Sadia Sultana , Khan Md Abdul Kaium , Ferdous Tasnim Tareq , Adinehloo Davoud , Perebeinos Vasili , Alim Mohammad Abdul
Published: July 2023

This work presents a comprehensive numerical study for designing a lead-free, all-inorganic, and high-performance solar cell based on Cs2TiI6 halide perovskite with all-inorganic carrier transport layers. A rigorous ab initio density-functional theory (DFT) calculation is performed to identify the electronic and optical properties of Cs2TiI6 and, upon extraction of the existing experimental data of the material, the cell is designed and optimized to the degree of practical feasibility. Consequently, a theoretical power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 21.17% is reported with inorganic TiO2 and CuI as carrier transport layers. The calculated absorption coefficient of Cs2TiI6 reveals its enormous potential as an alternative low-bandgap material for different solar cell applications. Furthermore, the role of different point defects and the corresponding defect densities on cell performance are investigated. It is found that the possible point defects in Cs2TiI6 can form both the shallow and deep defect states, with deep defect states having a prominent effect on cell performance. For both defect states, the cell performance deteriorates significantly as the defect density increases, which signifies the importance of high-quality material processing for the success of Cs2TiI6-based perovskite solar cell technology.
Efficacy of Pregabalin and Duloxetine in Patients with Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (PDPN): A Multi-Centre Phase IV Clinical Trial—BLOSSOM
Authors: Rakusa Martin , Marolt Iris , Stevic Zorica , Rebrina Sandra Vuckovic , Milenkovic Tatjana , Stepien Adam
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Our trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04246619) evaluates the efficacy of two generic medications, pregabalin and duloxetine, for treating pain in PDPN patients. Methods: The patients were randomised either into the pregabalin (99) or the duloxetine (102) arm. Pain was evaluated using the DN-4 questionnaire, and visual analogue scales (VASs, 0–100 mm) were used to measure the average pain intensity (API), worst pain intensity (WPI) in the last 24 h and current pain intensity (CPI). Results: The proportion of patients with a clinically significant improvement in the API at Week 12 was 88.3% [CI 81.7%, 94.8%] in the pregabalin arm and 86.9% [CI 76.7%, 97.1%] in the duloxetine arm. After 12 weeks, the CPI, API, and WPI decreased by −35.3 [−40.5, −30.0], −37.0 [−41.4, −32.6], and −41.6 [−46.6, −36.5] in the pregabalin arm, and by −35.0 [−39.2, −30.7], −36.9 [−41.5, −32.3], and −40.0 [−44.8, −35.2] in the duloxetine arm (all in mm, all p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that pregabalin and duloxetine are effective medications for treating pain in PDPN in more than 86% of all randomised patients.
The Effects of Green Tea Catechins in Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Della Via Fernanda Isabel , Alvarez Marisa Claudia , Basting Rosanna Tarkany , Saad Sara Teresinha Olalla
Published: July 2023

Green tea catechins are bioactive polyphenol compounds which have attracted significant attention for their diverse biological activities and potential health benefits. Notably, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) has emerged as a potent apoptosis inducer through mechanisms involving caspase activation, modulation of Bcl-2 family proteins, disruption of survival signaling pathways and by regulating the redox balance, inducing oxidative stress. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that green tea catechins can modulate epigenetic alterations, including DNA methylation and histone modifications. In addition to their apoptotic actions, ROS signaling effects and reversal of epigenetic alterations, green tea catechins have shown promising results in promoting the differentiation of leukemia cells. This review highlights the comprehensive actions of green tea catechins and provides valuable insights from clinical trials investigating the therapeutic potential of green tea catechins in leukemia treatment. Understanding these multifaceted mechanisms and the outcomes of clinical trials may pave the way for the development of innovative strategies and the integration of green tea catechins into clinical practice for improving leukemia patient outcomes.
Effects of Slit Edge Notches on Mechanical Properties of 3D-Printed PA12 Nylon Kirigami Specimens
Authors: Shu Jing , Wang Junming , Li Zheng , Tong Raymond Kai-yu
Published: July 2023

Kirigami structures, a Japanese paper-cutting art form, has been widely adopted in engineering design, including robotics, biomedicine, energy harvesting, and sensing. This study investigated the effects of slit edge notches on the mechanical properties, particularly the tensile stiffness, of 3D-printed PA12 nylon kirigami specimens. Thirty-five samples were designed with various notch sizes and shapes and printed using a commercial 3D printer with multi-jet fusion (MJF) technique. Finite element analysis (FEA) was employed to determine the mechanical properties of the samples computationally. The results showed that the stiffness of the kirigami samples is positively correlated with the number of edges in the notch shape and quadratically negatively correlated with the notch area of the samples. The mathematical relationship between the stretching tensile stiffness of the samples and their notch area was established and explained from an energy perspective. The relationship established in this study can help fine-tune the stiffness of kirigami-inspired structures without altering the primary parameters of kirigami samples. With the rapid fabrication method (e.g., 3D printing technique), the kirigami samples with suitable mechanical properties can be potentially applied to planar springs for hinge structures or energy-absorbing/harvesting structures. These findings will provide valuable insights into the development and optimization of kirigami-inspired structures for various applications in the future.
Modified Polysulfone Nanofibers for the Extraction and Preconcentration of Lead from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Acuña-Nicolás Jessica , Montesinos-Vázquez Tanese , Pérez-Silva Irma , Galán-Vidal Carlos A. , Ibarra Israel S. , Páez-Hernández M. Elena
Published: July 2023

Since lead is a highly toxic metal, it is necessary to detect its presence in different samples; unfortunately, analysis can be complicated if the samples contain concentrations below the detection limit of conventional analytical techniques. Solid phase extraction is a technique that allows the carrying out of a pre-concentration process and thus makes it easy to quantify analytes. This work studied the efficiency of sorption and preconcentration of lead utilizing polysulfone (PSf) fibers grafted with acrylic acid (AA). The best conditions for Pb(II) extraction were: pH 5, 0.1 mol L−1 of ionic strength, and 40 mg of sorbent (70% of removal). The sorbed Pb(II) was pre-concentrated by using an HNO3 solution and quantified using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The described procedure was used to obtain a correlation curve between initial concentrations and those obtained after the preconcentration process. This curve and the developed methodology were applied to the determination of Pb(II) concentration in a water sample contained in a handmade glazed clay vessel. With the implementation of the developed method, it was possible to pre-concentrate and determine a leached Pb(II) concentration of 258 µg L−1.
Achieving Excellent Dielectric and Energy Storage Performance in Core-Double-Shell-Structured Polyetherimide Nanocomposites
Authors: Yuan You , Lin Jingyu , Wang Xinhua , Qian Jun , Zuo Peiyuan , Zhuang Qixin
Published: July 2023

The development of pulse power systems and electric power transmission systems urgently require the innovation of dielectric materials possessing high-temperature durability, high energy storage density, and efficient charge–discharge performance. This study introduces a core-double-shell-structured iron(II,III) oxide@barium titanate@silicon dioxide/polyetherimide (Fe3O4@BaTiO3@SiO2/PEI) nanocomposite, where the highly conductive Fe3O4 core provides the foundation for the formation of microcapacitor structures within the material. The inclusion of the ferroelectric ceramic BaTiO3 shell enhances the composite’s polarization and interfacial polarization strength while impeding free charge transfer. The outer insulating SiO2 shell contributes excellent interface compatibility and charge isolation effects. With a filler content of 9 wt%, the Fe3O4@BaTiO3@SiO2/PEI nanocomposite achieves a dielectric constant of 10.6, a dielectric loss of 0.017, a high energy density of 5.82 J cm−3, and a charge–discharge efficiency (η) of 72%. The innovative aspect of this research is the design of nanoparticles with a core-double-shell structure and their PEI-based nanocomposites, effectively enhancing the dielectric and energy storage performance. This study provides new insights and experimental evidence for the design and development of high-performance dielectric materials, offering significant implications for the fields of electronic devices and energy storage.
Saint Bonaventure’s Doctrine on the Virgin Mary’s Immaculate Conception
Authors: Salvador-González José María
Published: July 2023

This article seeks to shed light on the approach of Saint Bonaventure of Bagnoregio (1217/21–1274) on the highly problematic issue of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. In a context of heated debates on the matter, Saint Bonaventure presents a long and complex set of arguments that we can summarize as follows: Mary was conceived with original sin contaminating her body at first, but she was cleansed of it and sanctified immediately after her conception, at the very moment of the animation of her body, that is, when her soul gave life to her body. Therefore, the author concludes that even though the body of Mary, like that of all human beings except Christ, was conceived with original sin, it was thoroughly cleansed, and her body was sanctified from the very first moment at which it was animated by her holy soul and cleansed of all sin.
Examining Participant Adherence with Wearables in an In-the-Wild Setting
Authors: Nolasco Hannah R. , Vargo Andrew , Bohley Niklas , Brinkhaus Christian , Kise Koichi
Published: July 2023

Wearable devices offer a wealth of data for ubiquitous computing researchers. For instance, sleep data from a wearable could be used to identify an individual’s harmful habits. Recently, devices which are unobtrusive in size, setup, and maintenance are becoming commercially available. However, most data validation for these devices come from brief, short-term laboratory studies or experiments which have unrepresentative samples that are also inaccessible to most researchers. For wearables research conducted in-the-wild, the prospect of running a study has the risk of financial costs and failure. Thus, when researchers conduct in-the-wild studies, the majority of participants tend to be university students. In this paper, we present a month-long in-the-wild study with 31 Japanese adults who wore a sleep tracking device called the Oura ring. The high device usage results found in this study can be used to inform the design and deployment of longer-term mid-size in-the-wild studies.
A Trustable and Secure Usage-Based Insurance Policy Auction Mechanism and Platform Using Blockchain and Smart Contract Technologies
Authors: Lin Wen-Yao , Tai Kuang-Yen , Lin Frank Yeong-Sung
Published: July 2023

This study presents an architectural framework for the blockchain-based usage-based insurance (UBI) policy auction mechanism in the internet of vehicles (IoV) applications. The main objective of this study is to analyze and design the specific blockchain architecture and management considerations for the UBI environment. An auction mechanism is developed for the UBI blockchain platform to enhance consumer trust. The study identifies correlations between driving behaviors and associated risks to determine a driver’s score. A decentralized bidding algorithm is proposed and implemented on a blockchain platform using elliptic curve cryptography and first-price sealed-bid auctions. Additionally, the model incorporates intelligent contract functionality to prevent unauthorized modifications and ensure that insurance prices align with the prevailing market value. An experimental study evaluates the system’s efficacy by expanding the participant pool in the bidding process to identify the winning bidder and is investigated under scenarios where varying numbers of insurance companies submit bids. The experimental results demonstrate that as the number of insurance companies increases exponentially, the temporal overhead incurred by the system exhibits only marginal growth. Moreover, the allocation of bids is accomplished within a significantly abbreviated timeframe. These findings provide evidence that supports the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
The Principles of Hearable Photoplethysmography Analysis and Applications in Physiological Monitoring–A Review
Authors: Azudin Khalida , Gan Kok Beng , Jaafar Rosmina , Ja’afar Mohd Hasni
Published: July 2023

Not long ago, hearables paved the way for biosensing, fitness, and healthcare monitoring. Smart earbuds today are not only producing sound but also monitoring vital signs. Reliable determination of cardiovascular and pulmonary system information can explore the use of hearables for physiological monitoring. Recent research shows that photoplethysmography (PPG) signals not only contain details on oxygen saturation level (SPO2) but also carry more physiological information including pulse rate, respiration rate, blood pressure, and arterial-related information. The analysis of the PPG signal from the ear has proven to be reliable and accurate in the research setting. (1) Background: The present integrative review explores the existing literature on an in-ear PPG signal and its application. This review aims to identify the current technology and usage of in-ear PPG and existing evidence on in-ear PPG in physiological monitoring. This review also analyzes in-ear (PPG) measurement configuration and principle, waveform characteristics, processing technology, and feature extraction characteristics. (2) Methods: We performed a comprehensive search to discover relevant in-ear PPG articles published until December 2022. The following electronic databases: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed were utilized to conduct the studies addressing the evidence of in-ear PPG in physiological monitoring. (3) Results: Fourteen studies were identified but nine studies were finalized. Eight studies were on different principles and configurations of hearable PPG, and eight studies were on processing technology and feature extraction and its evidence in in-ear physiological monitoring. We also highlighted the limitations and challenges of using in-ear PPG in physiological monitoring. (4) Conclusions: The available evidence has revealed the future of in-ear PPG in physiological monitoring. We have also analyzed the potential limitation and challenges that in-ear PPG will face in processing the signal.
Automated Gait Analysis Based on a Marker-Free Pose Estimation Model
Authors: Hii Chang Soon Tony , Gan Kok Beng , Zainal Nasharuddin , Mohamed Ibrahim Norlinah , Azmin Shahrul , Mat Desa Siti Hajar , van de Warrenburg Bart , You Huay Woon
Published: July 2023

Gait analysis is an essential tool for detecting biomechanical irregularities, designing personalized rehabilitation plans, and enhancing athletic performance. Currently, gait assessment depends on either visual observation, which lacks consistency between raters and requires clinical expertise, or instrumented evaluation, which is costly, invasive, time-consuming, and requires specialized equipment and trained personnel. Markerless gait analysis using 2D pose estimation techniques has emerged as a potential solution, but it still requires significant computational resources and human involvement, making it challenging to use. This research proposes an automated method for temporal gait analysis that employs the MediaPipe Pose, a low-computational-resource pose estimation model. The study validated this approach against the Vicon motion capture system to evaluate its reliability. The findings reveal that this approach demonstrates good (ICC(2,1) > 0.75) to excellent (ICC(2,1) > 0.90) agreement in all temporal gait parameters except for double support time (right leg switched to left leg) and swing time (right), which only exhibit a moderate (ICC(2,1) > 0.50) agreement. Additionally, this approach produces temporal gait parameters with low mean absolute error. It will be useful in monitoring changes in gait and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions such as rehabilitation or training programs in the community.
Walking Trajectory Estimation Using Multi-Sensor Fusion and a Probabilistic Step Model
Authors: Rabb Ethan , Steckenrider John Josiah
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a framework for accurately and efficiently estimating a walking human’s trajectory using a computationally inexpensive non-Gaussian recursive Bayesian estimator. The proposed framework fuses global and inertial measurements with predictions from a kinematically driven step model to provide robustness in localization. A maximum a posteriori-type filter is trained on typical human kinematic parameters and updated based on live measurements. Local step size estimates are generated from inertial measurement units using the zero-velocity update (ZUPT) algorithm, while global measurements come from a wearable GPS. After each fusion event, a gradient ascent optimizer efficiently locates the highest likelihood of the individual’s location which then triggers the next estimator iteration.The proposed estimator was compared to a state-of-the-art particle filter in several Monte Carlo simulation scenarios, and the original framework was found to be comparable in accuracy and more efficient at higher resolutions. It is anticipated that the methods proposed in this work could be more useful in general real-time estimation (beyond just personal navigation) than the traditional particle filter, especially if the state is many-dimensional. Applications of this research include but are not limited to: in natura biomechanics measurement, human safety in manual fieldwork environments, and human/robot teaming.
Data Provenance in Healthcare: Approaches, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Ahmed Mansoor , Dar Amil Rohani , Helfert Markus , Khan Abid , Kim Jungsuk
Published: July 2023

Data provenance means recording data origins and the history of data generation and processing. In healthcare, data provenance is one of the essential processes that make it possible to track the sources and reasons behind any problem with a user’s data. With the emergence of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), data provenance in healthcare systems should be implemented to give users more control over data. This SLR studies the impacts of data provenance in healthcare and GDPR-compliance-based data provenance through a systematic review of peer-reviewed articles. The SLR discusses the technologies used to achieve data provenance and various methodologies to achieve data provenance. We then explore different technologies that are applied in the healthcare domain and how they achieve data provenance. In the end, we have identified key research gaps followed by future research directions.
Open-Path Laser Absorption Sensor for Mobile Measurements of Atmospheric Ammonia
Authors: Shadman Soran , Miller Thomas W. , Yalin Azer P.
Published: July 2023

Anthropogenic emissions of ammonia to the atmosphere, particularly those from agricultural sources, can be damaging to the environment and human health and can drive a need for sensor technologies that can be used to detect and quantify the emissions. Mobile sensing approaches that can be deployed on ground-based or aerial vehicles can provide scalable solutions for high throughput measurements but require relatively compact and low-power sensor systems. This contribution presents an ammonia sensor based on wavelength modulation spectroscopy (WMS) integrated with a Herriott multi-pass cell and a quantum cascade laser (QCL) at 10.33 µm oriented to mobile use. An open-path configuration is used to mitigate sticky-gas effects and achieve high time-response. The final sensor package is relatively small (~20 L), lightweight (~3.5 kg), battery-powered (<30 W) and operates autonomously. Details of the WMS setup and analysis method are presented along with laboratory tests showing sensor accuracy (<~2%) and precision (~4 ppb in 1 s). Initial field deployments on both ground vehicles and a fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) are also presented.
Opportunity to Use New Ways of Working: Do Sectors and Organizational Characteristics Shape Employee Perceptions?
Authors: Giauque David , Cornu Frédéric , Renard Karine , Emery Yves
Published: July 2023

The diffusion of New Ways of Working (NWW) is an important trend in contemporary organizations. Many related empirical studies have been produced, but none have focused on differences in employees’ perceptions of the opportunity to use NWW according to organization sector (private, semi-public, public). This study, based on neo institutionalism and HR attributions theory, investigated these differences via a survey (n = 2693) of employees at private (n = 358), semi-public (n = 204), and public (n = 2131) organizations. Based on the use of the PLS-SEM method, as well as ANOVA tests and pairwise comparisons of marginal linear predictions, we uncover differences in perceptions between employees in different sectors regarding the possibility of using NWW. Indeed, the results show that public employees reported less opportunity to use NWW than their private and semi-public counterparts. Furthermore, private sector employees were more likely to attribute well-being and productivity benefits to NWW than their public sector and semi-public counterparts. We also show that institutional and organizational variables specific to the characteristics of organizations in the three sectors partially explain the degree of perceptions with respect to the opportunity to use NWW.
Are Rainwater and Stormwater Part of the Urban CE Efficiency?
Authors: Novaes Carlos , Marques Rui
Published: July 2023

Circular economy (CE) means efficient resource use. It is a matter of better available resource management. Understanding the characteristics, potential, use advantages and disadvantages, and management systems, in each context, is the basis to construct a feasible CE framework to deal with climate change and economic scarcity challenges. Urban stormwater has potential importance in CE when addressed as a useful resource rather than as waste. Its use can replace part of the water supply (reduce principle), brought from distant sources using energy-consuming and emission-producing systems. Thus, it can be a source of energy savings and emission reduction since stormwater can be used and stored near the place where rainwater falls or infiltrates to supply groundwater (reuse principle). Urban agriculture can also gain benefits by using, e.g., green infrastructures (GIs) (recycling principle). The main gap still lies in the implementation of the efficiency mentality, reducing expenses and consequently improving revenues, profits, and environment issues, such as emissions. It is a big paradigm shift. The creation of policies, institutions, and regulations aligned with each other, together with urban planning and water cycle efficiency, from a CE perspective is fundamental. Urban stormwater as a CE component is a moving paradigm shift based on a change in mindset.
Optimal Ordering Decisions in Portfolio Procurement Considering Spot Price Fluctuation
Authors: Luo Gongli , Liu Xiaoqing , Chan Felix T. S.
Published: July 2023

This paper studies a newsvendor’s optimal ordering decisions in portfolio procurement from long-term contracts and spot purchases. In portfolio procurement, the newsvendor can order commodities in a long-term contract to meet market demand, and the excess demands can be supplemented from the spot market. Firstly, the newsvendor’s optimal ordering quantity in long-term contracts to maximize the expected profits is achieved when the spot price fluctuation is not considered. Furthermore, the newsvendor’s optimal ordering quantity is derived when the spot price fluctuation is considered. The research will show that the newsvendor’s optimal ordering decisions change with market parameters. Spot price fluctuation has a significant influence on optimal ordering decisions in portfolio procurement. This research uses the method of relative fluctuation of spot price and long-term contract price, which is more applicable in practice. It is shown that the newsvendor’s optimal ordering quantity in a long-term contract increases with the spot price fluctuation, which implies that price fluctuation in the spot market leads to a greater order quantities in long-term contracts. Moreover, it is proven that the newsvendor’s expected profit obtained from portfolio procurement decreases with increasing spot price fluctuation. Finally, this is verified by numerical experiments, and several management insights are suggested.
Knowledge Capabilities for Sustainable Poultry Production in Sub-Sahara Africa: Lessons from Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Nwobodo Cynthia Ebere , Okoronkwo David John , Eze Rita Ifeanyi , Ozorngwu Ada Maryrose , Iwuchukwu Juliana Chinasa , Azuka Vincent Chukwuebuka , Udoye Charles Ekene
Published: July 2023

The poultry industry in sub-Saharan Africa faces significant sustainability challenges associated with social equity, economic stability, and environmental degradation. As the sector expands due to population and income growth, a major concern remaining is how to ensure a sustainable future for the industry. This paper assessed the knowledge capabilities of poultry farmers for sustainable production using southeast Nigeria as a model region for all riparian regions in sub-Saharan Africa. Sixty poultry farms and 180 participants were sampled. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources, including relevant literature, participant observations, and in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed with the percentage, bar chart, regression, and Pearson Moment Correlation. Findings revealed that only 13.9% of the respondents had a high knowledge of environmental sustainability. The number of years spent in school (t = 1.992; p = 0.048), access to veterinary service (t = 2.161; p = 0.032), and membership in a social organization (t = 2.306; p = 0.022) were socio-economic factors that significantly influenced knowledge capabilities. Knowledge (r = 0.252; p < 0.005), rather than income, significantly influenced the use of sustainability practices. Low knowledge of sustainability practices could mean a gross violation on the part of farmers. Specialized programs for educating poultry farmers on the realities of the environmental impacts of their livelihood are paramount.
Implementing the Technologies of Additional Impermeable Layers in a Building of the Monuments Office (Káčerov Majer) from a Sustainability Point of View
Authors: Št’astný Patrik , Makýš Peter , Vavrík Ivan , Kalús Daniel
Published: July 2023

This article presents the results of an experiment that involved applying additional impermeable layers on an historical building in the area of Káčerov Majer. The building showed a high level of waterlogging, which was detected by an initial inspection and subsequent moisture measurements that involved taking a set of measurements and recording the data in a spreadsheet linked to the plan view of the building. Then, a suitable method was devised to prevent rising damp and to assist in drying out the building. Several measurements after the application of remediation interventions were used for this purpose. The interventions, together with a comprehensive restoration, were intended to contribute to the reuse of the building, and thus its sustainability from technical, environmental, functional, and economic points of view. The aim of this research was to demonstrate the degree of effectiveness of undercutting technology in combination with local application of stainless-steel sheet piling and grouting technology, as one example of sustainability, which is a very relevant topic at the moment. These technologies were intended to provide remediation of the building against rising damp which was destructive to the structure. The environment in this building was affected by moisture and was also unhealthy, which made it difficult to use the building. For these reasons, it was necessary to take radical steps, by applying invasive anti-moisture technologies. The appropriateness and effectiveness of the technologies used have been evidenced by the results published in this article that have also been supplemented by photographs before and after the application of the remediation measures. This research demonstrates the effectiveness of the interventions and the need to also implement them on certain selected buildings where there is a high level of dampness causing degradation. From a sustainability point of view, such a step is essential to preserve the life of such structures and their continued use. The results of this research clearly demonstrate the appropriateness of comprehensive restoration of selected historical buildings, complemented by invasive damp-proofing interventions, as one of the important aspects of the sustainability of deteriorating monuments, whose numbers are constantly increasing.
Does Workplace Spirituality Foster Employee Ambidexterity? Evidence from IT Employees
Authors: Alam Mohammad Nurul , Iqbal Juman , Alotaibi Hammad S. , Nguyen Nhat Tan , Mat Norazuwa , Alsiehemy Ali
Published: July 2023

Incorporating spirituality into the workplace positively affects employees’ physical, psychological, mental, and spiritual well-being, hence contributing to sustainability. With this background, the objective of this study is to broaden our understanding of workplace spirituality and its association with employee ambidexterity through the theoretical lens of social exchange theory. It also examines the underlying mediational mechanism of employee perception of managerial trustworthiness and the moderating role of psychological distance A total of 384 Information Technology (IT) professionals participated in the study. Data were analyzed using Smart-PLS. It was found that workplace spirituality has a positive association with employee ambidexterity. Further, employee perception of managerial trustworthiness partially mediated the relationship between workplace spirituality and employee ambidexterity. Surprisingly, psychological distance did not moderate the relationship between workplace spirituality and employee perception of managerial trustworthiness. However, psychological distance moderated the relationship between workplace spirituality and employee ambidexterity. This study is an attempt to broaden the frontiers of workplace spirituality research, and it provides critical insights into how workplace spirituality fosters employee ambidexterity via employee perception of managerial trustworthiness. The findings also contribute to the scant research on the moderating role of psychological distance. Although studies have emphasized the need to explore the positive consequences of workplace spirituality, scant attention has been paid to its association with employee ambidexterity. To the best of our knowledge, no prior examination has been done on such a model, making our study unique and novel.
Predicting the Function of the Dissolution Rate with Depth Using Drilling Data from Shallow Strata at Karst Sites
Authors: Xie Xiaolan , Li Hailing , Sun Gangchen , Cao Xianfa
Published: July 2023

The degree of dissolution in building foundations has been proven to be an exponentially decaying function of depth, which can be characterized by the dissolution rate depth distribution function obtained from survey drilling data. If the dissolution rate depth distribution function can be predicted using shallow drilling data, it would reduce the workload and cost of surveying, and have positive engineering significance. In this study, in the context of the Liuzhou Style Harbor project in Liuzhou City, the dissolution rate depth distribution prediction curve was obtained using drilling data above elevations H30, H40, and H50 (corresponding to dissolution rates of 30%, 40%, and 50%, respectively). The prediction accuracy of the curve was thoroughly analyzed in terms of curve deviation and parameters of the intensive dissolution layer. The conclusion has also been verified by more engineering practices. The results showed that the predicted dissolution rate depth distribution function curve obtained from survey data above elevation H30 was very close to the actual curve, and sometimes matched it. The dissolution rate deviation within the range of the intensive dissolution layer was generally less than 10%, and the deviation in the boundary elevation of the intensive dissolution layer was generally less than 1.0 m. The predicted function was highly reliable, and the prediction deviation met the requirements of engineering practice. Therefore, it is recommended that elevation H30 be used as one of the controlling conditions for the depth of survey drilling in karst building foundation investigations. These research findings can provide a basis for optimizing a karst foundation investigation plan.
Impact of Air Pollution on Respiratory Diseases in Typical Industrial City in the North China Plain
Authors: Nie Tan , Chen Jiayi , Ji Yang , Lin Ting , Wang Jiangbo
Published: July 2023

Air pollution can lead to the elevated incidence of various respiratory diseases, seriously endangering the health of urban residents. To better comprehend the association between urban air pollution and respiratory disease incidence, this study focused on Xinxiang City, a typical industrial city in the North China Plain, as the research object. By analyzing monthly air pollution index concentrations from 2018 to 2021 and confirmed cases of respiratory diseases, and incorporating meteorological factors as reference points, we conducted a correlation analysis between disease data and pollutant concentrations. We then constructed a Poisson regression model to obtain maximum likelihood estimates, which were used to predict the quantitative relationship between the incidence of respiratory diseases and air pollution indicators. The results showed that an increase of 1 μg/m³ in the average mass concentration of PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and SO2 in ambient air was associated with an elevated incidence of respiratory diseases by 0.2–1.4%, 0.7–1.6%, 3.7–8.2%, and 0.5–2.3%, respectively; meanwhile, a monthly mean mass concentration of CO increased by 1 mg/m³ led to a rise in pulmonary tuberculosis incidence by 2.9%. Additionally, based on health risk data following exposure to air pollution in Xinxiang City, it was confirmed that the impact of respiratory diseases as measured by the air quality composite index was more applicable than the single pollution index. Furthermore, there was a significant association between air pollution and the incidence of respiratory diseases.
Research on Talent Cultivating Pattern of Industrial Engineering Considering Smart Manufacturing
Authors: Zhang Xugang , Li Cui , Jiang Zhigang
Published: July 2023

In-depth exploration of the theory and technological applications of smart manufacturing (SM) is lacking in the current talent training model for industrial engineering (IE) majors, and there is a lack of practical education for SM environments. This makes it difficult for students of traditional IE majors to adapt to the modern trend of industrial intelligence and meet the needs of market demand and enterprise development. Therefore, how to cultivate IE talents for SM has become an urgent problem for IE majors to solve. To this end, this paper proposes a new “SM+IE” talent training model, aiming to cultivate more high-quality composite application talents. This model is based on the Lean Manufacturing course and analyzes the effect of the training mode of SM. Secondly, we used the topic of “Sorting Efficiency Improvement” to verify the effectiveness of the new talent training model. The materials were divided into three types: large, medium, and small, and the materials were sorted using traditional IE practices and smart manufacturing-oriented practices. Finally, interviews were conducted with the participants, and both teachers and students indicated that the learning effect of this teaching reform practice was significantly better than that of the traditional IE teaching mode. The results show that the new talent training model improved not only the application and practical skills of the IE students, but also their teamwork and leadership skills.
From Green Ideas to Green Savings: Assessing the Financial Impact of Green Innovations on Audit Fees
Authors: Wu Dongxiao , Bao Xinzhong , Su Qiulan
Published: July 2023

Green innovation is an important approach to achieving ecologically sustainable development. However, the paradox surrounding enterprises’ willingness to engage in green innovation persists in discussions. Using a sample of listed firms from 2010–2021 in the Chinese A-shares market, this study analyzed the impact of green innovation diversity on audit fees and the underlying mechanisms involved. Our findings reveal that (1) a higher green innovation diversity is associated with a reduction in external audit fees; (2) green innovation diversity impacts audit fees through information transparency and corporate environmental performance; and (3) the effect of green innovation diversity on audit fees is more pronounced in firms with lower scales, higher government subsidies, and lower pollution intensity. These findings provide valuable insights into promoting firms’ engagement in green innovation activities and shed light on the challenges faced by audit firms when assessing and auditing green innovation.
Could Plant-Based Flocculants Substitute the Conventional Synthetic Chemicals in the Sludge Dewatering Process?
Authors: Hadj Mansour Yosra , Othmani Bouthaina , Ben Rebah Faouzi , Mnif Wissem , Saoudi Mongi , Khadhraoui Moncef
Published: July 2023

Due its high water content, sewage sludge dewatering is not just a simple operation; rather, it is a challenging process and a costly management task. Its final handling is usually preceded by several dewatering steps, and among them is the conditioning process known as the flocculation stage, which is carried out using synthetic chemical reagents. Despite the abilities of these additives to reduce sludge volume and extract its bound waters, they are suspected to cause serious environmental and health threats. Their substitution by natural and efficient additives originating from plant extracts could thus be a safe and an eco-friendly alternative, overcoming ecosystem damages. It is within this context that the present review paper critically investigates the efficacy and feasibility of plant-based flocculants, aiming to enhance sludge dewatering and dispense with environmental burdens. To do so, the types of the conventional chemical flocculants, their drawbacks, and their impacts on the ecosystem and human health were addressed. In parallel, the potential dewatering efficiency of plant extracts toward sludge treatment was compiled, and their mechanistic dewatering paths performances were thoroughly discussed. The challenges associated with dewatered sludge and its potential exploitation were also highlighted to motivate scientific communities to further explore green resources for sludge processing. It is suggested that green resources such as Moringa, Cactus, Aloe, and Okra could be used as green flocculants instead of chemical ones, which would provide a promising and eco-sustainable approach to sludge dewatering and might represent a path towards an environmentally friendly and clean technology.