bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory Comparison of Low-Cost Particulate Matter Sensors to Measure Transient Events of Pollution—Part B—Particle Number Concentrations
Authors: Bulot Florentin Michel Jacques , Russell Hugo Savill , Rezaei Mohsen , Johnson Matthew Stanley , Ossont Steven James , Morris Andrew Kevin Richard , Basford Philip James , Easton Natasha Hazel Celeste , Mitchell Hazel Louise , Foster Gavin Lee , Loxham Matthew , Cox Simon James
Published: September 2023

Low-cost Particulate Matter (PM) sensors offer an excellent opportunity to improve our knowledge about this type of pollution. Their size and cost, which support multi-node network deployment, along with their temporal resolution, enable them to report fine spatio-temporal resolution for a given area. These sensors have known issues across performance metrics. Generally, the literature focuses on the PM mass concentration reported by these sensors, but some models of sensors also report Particle Number Concentrations (PNCs) segregated into different PM size ranges. In this study, eight units each of Alphasense OPC-R1, Plantower PMS5003 and Sensirion SPS30 have been exposed, under controlled conditions, to short-lived peaks of PM generated using two different combustion sources of PM, exposing the sensors’ to different particle size distributions to quantify and better understand the low-cost sensors performance across a range of relevant environmental ranges. The PNCs reported by the sensors were analysed to characterise sensor-reported particle size distribution, to determine whether sensor-reported PNCs can follow the transient variations of PM observed by the reference instruments and to determine the relative impact of different variables on the performances of the sensors. This study shows that the Alphasense OPC-R1 reported at least five size ranges independently from each other, that the Sensirion SPS30 reported two size ranges independently from each other and that all the size ranges reported by the Plantower PMS5003 were not independent of each other. It demonstrates that all sensors tested here could track the fine temporal variation of PNCs, that the Alphasense OPC-R1 could closely follow the variations of size distribution between the two sources of PM, and it shows that particle size distribution and composition are more impactful on sensor measurements than relative humidity.
Design and Fabrication of a Thin and Micro-Optical Sensor for Rapid Prototyping
Authors: Morita Nobutomo , Iwasaki Wataru
Published: September 2023

Optical sensing offers several advantages owing to its non-invasiveness and high sensitivity. The miniaturization of optical sensors will mitigate spatial and weight constraints, expanding their applications and extending the principal advantages of optical sensing to different fields, such as healthcare, Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and other aspects of society. In this study, we present the development of a miniature optical sensor for monitoring thrombi in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The sensor, based on a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor integrated circuit (CMOS-IC), also serves as a photodiode, amplifier, and light-emitting diode (LED)-mounting substrate. It is sized 3.8 × 4.8 × 0.75 mm3 and provides reflectance spectroscopy at three wavelengths. Based on semiconductor and microelectromechanical system (MEMS) processes, the design of the sensor achieves ultra-compact millimeter size, customizability, prototyping, and scalability for mass production, facilitating the development of miniature optical sensors for a variety of applications.
Carnosic Acid and Carnosol: Analytical Methods for Their Determination in Plants, Foods and Biological Samples
Authors: Mantzourani Christiana , Tarantilis Petros A. , Kokotou Maroula G.
Published: September 2023

Among the various phytochemicals, which are present in Lamiaceae plants, carnosic acid and carnosol stand out. Carnosic acid is a phenolic diterpene carrying two phenolic hydroxyl groups and a carboxyl group, while carnosol carries a lactone moiety in addition to phenolic hydroxyls. Both these phenolic diterpenes exhibit interesting biological properties, such as antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activities. In this review, we summarize the existing analytical methods for the determination of carnosic acid and carnosol, primarily in plants, but also in foods and biological samples. Due to the biological importance of carnosic acid and carnosol, a variety of analytical methods, including high-performance liquid chromatography–ultra violet (HPLC–UV), liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) and capillary electrophoresis (CE), were developed for their determination. In addition, we discuss the extraction methods applied for their isolation from plants and in brief the bioactivities of these phytochemicals.
GC-MS Analysis of Essential Oil and Volatiles from Aerial Parts of Peucedanum tauricum M.B. during the Phenological Period
Authors: Bartnik Magdalena
Published: September 2023

Widespread worldwide Peucedanum plants (Apiaceae) have been used for centuries as plant medicines. The polymorphism of this genus is consistent with chemotaxonomically and therapeutically significant differences in the composition of secondary metabolites. GC-MS of Peucedanum tauricum M.B. volatiles from the headspace (HS) and hydrodistilled essential oil (HD), both obtained simultaneously from flowers (FL), immature and ripe fruits (IF, MF) and leaves (L1-L3) collected at the time of harvesting of generative organs, show differences in the chemical profiles of HS and HD from the same parts of the plant, and between organs (FL, IF, MF vs. L1-L3). The presented studies on the variability of biometabolites in the phenological period indicated the optimal harvesting time, focused on two molecular chemotaxonomic markers of PT; guaia-1(10),11-diene and guaia-9,11-diene (in generative organs iHD at 25.5–32.1% and 26.8–33.6%; and in their HS at 29.4–41.3% and 25.0–29.4%, respectively). This is the first report on the analysis of fresh aerial parts of Peucedanum sp. in which GC-MS of HS and HD was performed simultaneously during the vegetation period. The importance, with possible limitations, of GC-MS analysis of HS and HD as an evaluation tool useful in the chemotaxonomy of Peucedanum plants was also discussed.
A Quantitative Review of the Research on Business Process Management in Digital Transformation: A Bibliometric Approach
Authors: Truong Bui Quang , Nguyen-Duc Anh , Van Nguyen Thi Cam
Published: September 2023

In recent years, research on digital transformation (DT) and business process management (BPM) has gained significant attention in the field of business and management. This paper aims to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global research on DT and BPM from 2007 to 2022. A total of 326 papers were selected from Web of Science and Scopus for analysis. Using bibliometric methods, we evaluated the current state and future research trends of DT and BPM. Our analysis reveals that the number of publications on DT and BPM has grown significantly over time, with the Business Process Management Journal being the most active. The countries that have contributed the most to this field are Germany (with four universities in the top 10) and the USA. The Business Process Management Journal is the most active in publishing research on digital transformation and business process management. The analysis showed that “artificial intelligence” is a technology that has been studied extensively and is increasingly asserted to influence companies’ business processes. Additionally, the study provides valuable insights from the co-citation network analysis. Based on our findings, we provide recommendations for future research directions on DT and BPM. This study contributes to a better understanding of the current state of research on DT and BPM and provides insights for future research.
Effect of Hip Muscle Strengthening Exercises on Pain and Disability in Patients with Non-Specific Low Back Pain—A Systematic Review
Authors: Santamaría Gema , Rodríguez Irene , Rodríguez-Pérez Vicente , Cobreros-Mielgo Raúl , Lantarón-Caeiro Eva , Seco-Casares Marina , Fernández-Lázaro Diego
Published: September 2023

Low back pain (LBP) is a health problem that affects 70–80% of the population in Western countries. Because of the biomechanical relationship between the lumbar region and the hip, it is thought that strengthening the muscles of this joint could improve the symptoms of people with LBP. The objective of this study is to evaluate the current evidence on the efficacy of hip strengthening exercises to reduce pain and disability in people with LBP. Clinical trials were collected from the PubMed, PEDro, and Scopus databases published up to September 2022. Based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines and using CASP and PEDro tools for methodological quality assessment, we selected studies that included hip strengthening exercises as part of LBP treatment and measured pain and/or disability parameters. Among the 966 records identified in the search, a total of 7 studies met the established selection criteria. Overall, participants who performed hip strengthening exercises had significantly improved in pain and disability. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed as “good”. In conclusion, the addition of hip muscle strengthening exercises iterating interacted with LBP, effectively improving pain and disability.
The Percentage of Total and Regional Fat Is Negatively Correlated with Performance in Judo
Authors: dos Santos Izabela Aparecida , Bertochi Gabriel Felipe Arantes , Higino Wonder Passoni , Papoti Marcelo , Puggina Enrico Fuini
Published: September 2023

This study investigated the associations between total and regional body composition with performance in the special judo fitness test (SJFT), as well as strength and power tests (countermovement vertical jump—CMJ, squat jump—SJ, plyometric push-up—PPU, and force push-up—FPU). Twenty-three high-level judo athletes participated in this study. Initially, they underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, after which they performed the CMJ, SJ, PPU, and FPU tests. On another day, the SJFT was carried out. Correlations were tested using Pearson’s test. The performance in the SJFT was correlated with the total and arm %fat mass (r = −0.759), torso fat mass (r = −0.802), torso %fat mass (r = −0.822) and in the lower limb regions with the leg fat mass (r = −0.803) and leg %fat (r = −0.745). In the strength and power tests, there were also negative correlations observed between regional fat and performance. There was a negative correlation between the percentage of total fat and performance in the SJFT (r = −0.824), SJ (r = −0.750), CMJ (r = −0.742), PPU (r = −0.609), and FPU (r = −0.736). Fat, both total fat and regional fat in the arms, torso, and legs, is strongly correlated with a poor performance in the SJFT and poor strength and power.
An Empirical Investigation: Does New Airport Terminal Infrastructure Improve the Customer Experience?
Authors: Boc Karmela , Štimac Igor , Pivac Jelena , Bračić Matija
Published: September 2023

Airports are often the centers driving the economic development of the local community in which they are located and have a significant impact on national economies. Therefore, infrastructural airport development is of great importance. New airport infrastructure has an impact on the improvement of the customer experience, but with the assumption that certain physical and operational conditions are met. Using interviews and statistical methods, airport customers’ satisfaction was numerically expressed. The special value of this research lies in real data collected via two independent organizations, which were responsible for data collecting during the three-year period which included activities at the old passenger terminal at the Franjo Tuđman Airport, activities during the transition period from the old to the new passenger terminal, and the period after opening the new and closing the old passenger terminal. The research found that, in addition to the facilities that are part of the passenger operations, passengers pay significant attention to the commercial facilities, as well as the design and ambiance of the passenger terminal. It can be concluded that with the development of new airport infrastructure, such as a passenger terminal, a wow effect can be achieved for the customers. However, only the right design of ambiance, simplified passenger flows, and organization of commercial areas with diverse offerings and acceptable prices will ensure long-term customer satisfaction and that the experience gap remains positive and sustainable.
Impact Analysis of Road Infrastructure and Traffic Control on Injury Severity of Single- and Multi-Vehicle Crashes
Authors: Tanishita Masayoshi , Sekiguchi Yuta
Published: September 2023

Single- and multi-vehicle crashes are a significant issue that has economic and social costs and has therefore gained attention. This study explored the factors associated with injury severity for both single- and multi-vehicle crashes using over 550,000 crash data in Japan from 2019 to 2021. The determinants of road infrastructure and traffic control were identified while considering driver, vehicle, environmental, and accident characteristics, using ordered logit and bias-reduced binomial regression models. Our findings are as follows. Traffic control variables had no significant effect on the injury of single-vehicle crashes. Guardrails were associated with higher severity in both single-vehicle and multi-vehicle crashes at intersections. The impact of the centerline varied between intersections and non-intersections for multi-vehicle crashes. The results of this study provide transportation agencies with important guidance for road infrastructure and transport control.
Recent Advances in Seaweed Biorefineries and Assessment of Their Potential for Carbon Capture and Storage
Authors: Johnston Katherine G. , Abomohra Abdelfatah , French Christopher E. , Zaky Abdelrahman S.
Published: September 2023

Seaweeds are among the most important biomass feedstocks for the production of third-generation biofuels. They are also efficient in carbon sequestration during growth and produce a variety of high-value chemicals. Given these characteristics together with the relatively high carbohydrate content, seaweeds have been discussed as an ideal means for CO2 capture and biofuel production. Though third-generation biofuels have emerged as some of the best alternatives to fossil fuels, there is currently no large-scale production or mainstream use of such liquid fuels due to the many technical challenges and high production costs. The present study describes the concept of coastal marine biorefineries as the most cost-effective and sustainable approach for biofuel production from seaweeds, as well as atmospheric carbon capture and storage (CCS). The suggested refinery system makes use of marine resources, namely seawater, seaweed, and marine microorganisms. Firstly, extensive screening of the current literature was performed to determine which technologies would enable the emergence of such a novel biorefinery system and its merits over conventional refineries. Secondly, the study investigates various scenarios assessing the potential of seaweeds as a means of carbon sequestration. We demonstrate that the removal of 100 Gigatons of excess CO2 using seaweed farms can be achieved in around 4 months to less than 12 years depending on the area under cultivation and the seaweed species. The total bioethanol that could be generated from the harvested biomass is around 8 trillion litres. In addition, high-value chemicals (HVC) that could potentially be recovered from the process represent a considerable opportunity with multi-billion-dollar commercial value. Overall, coastal marine biorefineries have strong potential for a sustainable green economy and represent a rapid approach to climate change mitigation.
Sustainable Supply Chain Risk Management in a Climate-Changed World: Review of Extant Literature, Trend Analysis, and Guiding Framework for Future Research
Authors: Yun Nam Yi , Ülkü M. Ali
Published: September 2023

In the face of climate change (CC), “business as usual” is futile. The increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events (e.g., hurricanes, floods, droughts, and heatwaves) have hurt lives, displaced communities, destroyed logistics networks, disrupted the flow of goods and services, and caused delays, capacity failures, and immense costs. This study presents a strategic approach we term “Climate-Change Resilient, Sustainable Supply Chain Risk Management” (CCR-SSCRM) to address CC risks in supply chain management (SCM) pervading today’s business world. This approach ensures supply chain sustainability by balancing the quadruple bottom line pillars of economy, environment, society, and culture. A sustainable supply chain analytics perspective was employed to support these goals, along with a systematic literature network analysis of 699 publications (2003–2022) from the SCOPUS database. The analysis revealed a growing interest in CC and supply chain risk management, emphasizing the need for CCR-SSCRM as a theoretical guiding framework. The findings and recommendations may help to guide researchers, policymakers, and businesses. We provide insights on constructing and managing sustainable SCs that account for the accelerating impacts of CC, emphasizing the importance of a proactive and comprehensive approach to supply chain risk management in the face of CC. We then offer directions for future research on CCR-SSCRM and conclude by underlining the urgency of interdisciplinary collaboration and integration of climate considerations into SCM for enhanced resilience and sustainability.
Design Study for the Construction of Turbo Roundabouts under Constrained Site Conditions
Authors: Sołowczuk Alicja , Majer Stanisław
Published: September 2023

Turbo-roundabouts are one of the most frequently recommended road junction design options when it comes to increasing traffic capacity and traffic safety. This is in particular true of suburban areas, with dominant traffic flow on the main road and moderate traffic flow on the side road. Other intersections handling local traffic and considerably constricting the availability of space are usually located in the vicinity of such intersections. Another factor contributing to the limited availability of land for construction in these locations is the presence of surrounding residential housing. Then, choosing the suitable turbo-roundabout type becomes the main issue. The article presents a case study for the selection of a type of turbo roundabout under the conditions of considerably constricted land availability based on the analysis of the provision of a swept path for the chosen design vehicles. The article considers the standard egg-type turbo-roundabouts, “look-a-like” type turbo-roundabouts, non-standard “flattened” turbo-roundabouts and ellipse-based roundabouts, with non-standard geometries of the truck apron and central island. For each of the analysed roundabout types, setting-out methods were described in detail, allowing the designer to quickly select a type of roundabout suitable for the specific constrained site conditions. This article analyses the applicability of non-standard turbo roundabouts for three area types: LUDA low urbanisation degree area, BA built-up area and CDA highly commercially developed area along the side road, wherever standard roundabouts are not practicable due to constraints imposed by existing buildings, canals or any other obstacles found at the project site.
Role of Networks of Rural Innovation in Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals: A Quadruple Helix Case Study
Authors: Irungu Ruth Wanjiru , Liu Zhimin , Liu Xiaoguang , Wanjiru Ann Wambui
Published: September 2023

Tackling rural development challenges is essential for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The quadruple helix approach, encompassing academia, the government, industry, and the community, is crucial for promoting neo-endogenous rural development and sustainability through effective interventions. This paper utilizes a case study methodology and qualitative approaches, such as observation, discussions, and semi-structured interviews, to provide an overview of a quadruple helix rural revitalization program focused on sustainable rural development. The findings showed the following: (1) the quadruple helix collaborations initiated among the stakeholders are essential for promoting collaborative research, enhancing relevance, and stimulating neo-endogenous growth; (2) the program’s focus on agricultural science and technology, entrepreneurship, and tourism offers a holistic approach to sustainable rural development, representing a departure from a sectoral focus on agriculture and the move towards a comprehensive understanding of rural innovation, where agricultural production is incorporated as one activity among many; (3) the multidisciplinary approach of the program has facilitated the advancement of a total of 11 out of the 17 SDGs. The study suggests implications for practice, emphasizing the importance of context-specific and multidisciplinary approaches to address sustainability challenges that are not bounded by discipline.
Chemical Engineering beyond Earth: Astrochemical Engineering in the Space Age
Authors: Inglezakis Vassilis , Rapp Donald , Razis Panos , Zorpas Antonis
Published: September 2023

The Space Race in the second half of the 20th century was primarily concerned with getting there and back. Gradually, technology and international collaboration opened new horizons, but human activity was mostly restricted around Earth’s orbit, while robotic missions were sent to solar system planets and moons. Now, nations and companies claim extraterrestrial resources and plans are in place to send humans and build bases on the Moon and Mars. Exploration and discovery are likely to be followed by exploitation and settlement. History suggests that the next step is the development of space industry. The new industrial revolution will take place in space. Chemical engineers have been educated for more than a century on designing processes adapted to the Earth’s conditions, involving a range of raw materials, atmospheric pressure, ambient temperature, solar radiation, and 1-g. In space, the raw materials differ, and the unique pressure, temperature and solar radiation conditions require new approaches and methods. In the era of space exploration, a new educational concept for chemical engineers is necessary to prepare them for playing key roles in space. To this end, we introduce Astrochemical Engineering as an advanced postgraduate course and we propose a 2-year 120 ECTS MEng curriculum with a brief description of the modules and learning outcomes. The first year includes topics such as low-gravity process engineering, cryogenics, and recycling systems. The second year includes the utilization of planetary resources and materials for space resources. The course culminates in an individual design project and comprises two specializations: Process Engineering and Space Science. The course will equip engineers and scientists with the necessary knowledge for the development of advanced processes and industrial ecologies based on closed self-sustained systems. These can be applied on Earth to help reinvent sustainability and mitigate the numerous challenges humanity faces.
The Impact and Mechanism of Corporate ESG Construction on the Efficiency of Regional Green Economy: An Empirical Analysis Based on Signal Transmission Theory and Stakeholder Theory
Authors: Hu Anjun , Yuan Xianzhu , Fan Shuangshuang , Wang Shali
Published: September 2023

The Chinese government’s ongoing endeavors to achieve the “low carbon goals” hold immense importance in global emissions reduction. Nonetheless, reducing emissions will inevitably cause economic losses. Therefore, the pursuit of green economic efficiency is regarded as an effective tool to mitigate the economic losses during emission reduction. Synchronously, the realization of green economic efficiency is essential for sustainable development. With the increasing awareness of regional green development, emphasis companies place on environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG), which contributes to corporate ESG construction, could become a novel advantage in terms of attracting investors. Additionally, it could have a lasting impact on corporate green technological innovation, thereby enhancing the efficiency. Based on the data of A-share listed companies in China from 2009 to 2019, this study analyzes the effect of corporate ESG construction on the efficiency of regional green economy as well as its mechanism. The research findings demonstrate a significant positive impact of corporate ESG construction on the efficiency of regional green economies. Specifically, each unit improvement in corporate ESG construction is associated with an approximate 0.7% increase in the efficiency of the regional green economy. The conclusion can be drawn after robustness testing. Notably, the effect of corporate ESG construction is more pronounced for companies located in the eastern region, state-owned enterprises, and high-polluting industries. In terms of the underlying mechanism, corporate ESG construction facilitates regional green economic efficiency by fostering corporate green technological innovation. Furthermore, it is observed that environmental regulations have a negative moderating influence on corporate ESG construction, which in turn affects regional green economic efficiency. When examining the decomposed variables of regional green economic efficiency, the impact of corporate ESG construction on regional green scale efficiency is found to align with its overall effect on regional green economic efficiency. This study contributes to the existing research on corporate ESG construction and regional green economic efficiency, offering valuable insights to guide companies in enhancing both aspects. Building upon the conclusions drawn, we will provide policy recommendations from the perspectives of the company itself, corporate investors, and the government. These recommendations aim to facilitate improvements in corporate ESG construction and foster the enhancement of regional green economic efficiency.
The Methodology for Assessing the Applicability of CSR into Supplier Management Systems
Authors: Kóča Ferdinand , Pačaiová Hana , Turisová Renata , Sütőová Andrea , Darvaši Peter
Published: September 2023

The implementation of management systems has become a strategic advantage in achieving business goals, especially in industrial organizations, but the implementation of social responsibility requirements is an especially ethical issue. Due to the existence of various standards (often industry-specific) as well as individual codes of conduct developed by large multinational organizations, supplier organizations must face a variety of requirements. The question, then, is to what extent their established management systems (MSs) meet these requirements. The objectives of the study were to: (1) analyze the different CSR requirements of internationally recognized cross-industry and industry-specific standards and codes in different industries; (2) select the most appropriate framework and develop a methodology for assessing the degree of applicability of CSR in the selected management systems; (3) apply the proposed methodology (the so-called Social Requirements Applicability in Management Systems—SRIMS) in the selected areas: automotive industry, research organization, and metallurgical industry; and (4) analyze the results of SRIMS by the application of the ANOVA and Bonferroni method and define clusters within the selected factors—“Organization”, “Standard”, and “Chapter” and determine differences between pairs within each factor. The application of the Bonferroni method confirmed the hypotheses that the developed SRIMS model is an appropriate tool for assessing the overall level of applicability of CSR requirements in established MSs.
Evaluation of Hydraulic Tunnel Lining Durability Based on Entropy–G2 and Gray Correlation–TOPSIS Methods
Authors: Zhu Liujie , Wang Changsheng , Fan Chuangshi , Li Qingfu
Published: September 2023

Under long-term water flow, the physical and chemical properties of hydraulic tunnel linings are more likely to deteriorate than those of road tunnels, thus affecting the normal operation of tunnels. Evaluating the durability of hydraulic tunnel linings can help to grasp the durability of tunnels in a timely and accurate manner and provide a basis for the routine maintenance of tunnels. This paper proposes new methods for evaluating the durability of hydraulic tunnel linings. Firstly, the types of tunnel defects are divided, the durability indices corresponding to the defects are selected scientifically, and a hydraulic tunnel durability evaluation index system is established. Then, the G2 method is modified by the entropy value method to make it a subjective and objective weighting method, which can make the weights fit the reality while the calculation is easy, and the TOPSIS method is modified by the gray correlation degree to optimize the judgment criteria between the evaluation scheme and the ideal solution. Finally, the practicality and accuracy of this method are verified by the calculation of the five sections of a tunnel with lining durability grades of A, B, C, B, and C, respectively, which matched the calculation results of the RAGA-PP method in the related literature.
Surviving the Time: CEO Tenure and Its Impact on Risky Foreign Direct Investment in Conflict-Prone Belt and Road Initiative Participant Countries
Authors: Lee Hyoungjin
Published: September 2023

Introduced in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) emerged as a crucial catalyst in facilitating outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) of Chinese private enterprises. While the majority of BRI participant countries are characterized by high risk of violent conflicts, we have limited understanding of why firms invest in such regions despite such inherent risks. Thus, the aim of this study is to unveil the determinants of engagement in risky investment projects. Drawing on the literature of international business and strategic management, this study seeks to examine the relationship between CEO tenure and its impact on the likelihood of undertaking risky investments in the context of Chinese private firms in BRI participant countries. Using the sample of 1140 listed privately owned Chinese multinational enterprises (MNEs) that invested in at least one foreign country between 2013 and 2019, panel logistic regression was conducted to test the hypothesized relationships. The findings of this study indicate that the longer the CEO holds their position, the less likely the firm is to undertake risky investments. Moreover, when the longevity of CEO tenure is coupled with the presence of a dominant shareholder, this effect is further exacerbated. Furthermore, when a long-tenured CEO serves as the chairman of the board, the resistance to undertaking risky investment becomes stronger. By highlighting the effects of CEO tenure, as well as the relationship between governance characteristics and engagement in risky investment projects, this study suggests a sustainable corporate governance structure to build a transparent decision-making process for both investing firms and the host countries.
Microplastic Pollution: Threats and Impacts on Global Marine Ecosystems
Authors: Yu Ren-Shou , Singh Sher
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the scope of global marine microplastic pollution and its implications on marine ecosystems and human health. We first delve into how plastic enters the ocean, with an emphasis on the accumulation of plastic along coastlines, particularly the formation and impact of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP). Through a concentration map of marine microplastics across five continents, the global distribution of microplastic pollution is revealed. Furthermore, the effects of microplastics on marine wildlife are explored, as well as their potential entry into the human food chain, posing potential public health risks. The results of our research underscore the serious threats of microplastic pollution to global marine ecosystems and human health, emphasizing the need for more scientific research and policy measures to address this challenge.
Enhancing the Community Environment in Populous Residential Districts: Neighborhood Amenities and Residents’ Daily Needs
Authors: Zhang Kai , Yan Dong
Published: September 2023

Due to urban population growth, dense communities have emerged as a common approach to improve land utilization and minimize resource consumption to foster sustainable development in cities. In densely populated neighborhoods, the accessibility, availability, and appropriateness of amenities play a crucial role in the sustainable development of cities and residents’ quality of life. This study integrates the distribution of amenities within densely populated cities and utilizes residential assessments to analyze the effectiveness of these amenities in meeting the daily needs of residents. This analysis is based on a survey conducted in the three most populated cities in China. The study utilizes two sets of data: amenity distribution information and a questionnaire regarding the state of amenities and residents’ daily needs. The survey began in 2019 and was completed in 2021. A total of 1060 valid questionnaires were collected, with Shanghai accounting for 42%, and Beijing and Chongqing accounting for 30% and 28%, respectively. The findings demonstrate a higher density of amenities in populous areas, indicating a response to the overall requirements of residents. In these areas, the transportation network is extended more widely. Moreover, neighborhoods equipped with outdoor green spaces, ample parking, security services, and accessible public institutions received positive evaluations from residents, as they actively fulfilled their living needs. In neighborhood planning, prioritizing the coverage and quantity of these amenities can enhance the functionality and effectiveness of dense residential areas. This approach promotes sustainable development goals by improving the efficiency of urban resource allocation and establishing a convenient neighborhood environment.
Linking Preschool Teachers’ Pay Equity and Turnover Intention in Chinese Public Kindergartens: The Mediating Role of Perceived Organizational Support and Job Satisfaction
Authors: Liu Ying , Yu Yongping , Zeng Xiaoying , Li Yufei
Published: September 2023

The turnover rate, income levels, and salary distribution among kindergarten teachers in China have gained increasing attention as these issues may negatively affect teacher quality. They largely impede the sustainable development of preschool education. This study aimed to explore the level of perceptions of pay equity among preschool teachers and examine the relationships among pay equity, turnover intention, perceived organizational support (POS), and job satisfaction. A survey was conducted with 2029 preschool teachers from Chinese public kindergartens, and descriptive analysis and covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM) were used to analyze the data. The results showed that the level of pay equity for preschool teachers was moderate, with a significant difference between teachers with Bianzhi and those without. The structural equation model revealed a significant negative relationship between teachers’ pay equity and their intent to leave. Perceived organizational support and job satisfaction independently mediated the relationship between pay equity and turnover intention, with a serial mediation effect observed. These findings highlight the importance of considering teachers’ pay equity, POS, and job satisfaction in order to retain high-quality teachers.
Understanding the Stability of Passenger Vehicles Exposed to Water Flows through 3D CFD Modelling
Authors: Al-Qadami Ebrahim Hamid Hussein , Razi Mohd Adib Mohammad , Damanik Wawan Septiawan , Mustaffa Zahiraniza , Martinez-Gomariz Eduardo
Published: September 2023

A vehicle exposed to flooding may lose its stability and wash away resulting in potential injuries and fatalities. Traffic disruption, infrastructure damage, and economic losses are also additional effects of the washed vehicles. Therefore, understanding the responses of passenger vehicles during flood events is of the utmost importance to reduce flood risks and develop accurate safety guidelines. Previously, flooded vehicle stability was investigated experimentally, theoretically, and numerically. However, numerical investigations are insufficient, of which only a few studies have been published since 1967. Furthermore, coupled motion simulations have not been employed to investigate the hydrodynamic forces on flooded vehicles. In this paper, a numerical framework was proposed to assess the response of a full-scale medium-size passenger vehicle exposed to floodwaters through three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic modelling. The vehicle was simulated under subcritical and supercritical flows with the Froude number ranging between 0.09 and 2.46. The results showed that the vehicle experienced the floating instability mode once the flow depth reached 0.38 m, while the sliding instability mode was observed once the depth×velocity threshold function exceeded 0.36 m2/s. In terms of hydrodynamic forces, it was noticed that the drag force decreased with the increment of the Froude number and flow velocity. On the other hand, the fraction and buoyancy forces are mainly governed by the flow depth at the vehicle vicinity. The drag coefficient was noticed to be less than 1 for supercritical flows and more than 1 for subcritical flows. The numerical results obtained through the framework introduced in this study demonstrate favorable agreement with three different previously published experimental outcomes.
Bio-Convection Effects of MHD Williamson Fluid Flow over a Symmetrically Stretching Sheet: Machine Learning
Authors: Priyadharshini P. , Karpagam V. , Shah Nehad Ali , Alshehri Mansoor H.
Published: September 2023

The primary goal of this research study is to examine the influence of Brownian motion and thermophoresis diffusion with the impact of thermal radiation and the bioconvection of microorganisms in a symmetrically stretching sheet of non-Newtonian typical Williamson fluid. Structures of the momentum, energy, concentration, and bio-convection equations are interconnected with the imperative partial differential equations (PDEs). Similarity transformations are implemented to translate pertinent complicated partial differential equations into ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The BVP4C approach from the MATLAB assemblage computational methods scheme is extensively impacted by the results of these ODEs. The impact of several physical parameters, including Williamson fluid We(0.2≤We≤1.2), the magnetic field parameter M(0.0≤M≤2.5), Brownian motion Nb(0.0≤Nb≤1.0), thermophoresis diffusion Nt(0.1≤Nt≤0.9). In addition, various physical quantities of the skin friction (RexCfx), Nusselt number (Nux), Sherwood number (Shx), and motile microorganisms (Nnx) are occupied and demonstrate the visualization of graphs and tabular values. These outcomes are validated with earlier obtained results, displaying excellent synchronicity in the physical parameters. Furthermore, the physical quantities concerning the non-dimensional parameters are anticipated by employing Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) in Machine Learning (ML) as successfully executed a novelty of this study. These innovative techniques can help to advance development and technologies for future researchers. The real-world implications of this research are that bio-remediation, microbial movements in mixed fluids, and cancer prevention therapy are crucial.
Two Forms for Maclaurin Power Series Expansion of Logarithmic Expression Involving Tangent Function
Authors: Li Yue-Wu , Qi Feng , Du Wei-Shih
Published: September 2023

In view of a general formula for higher order derivatives of the ratio of two differentiable functions, the authors establish the first form for the Maclaurin power series expansion of a logarithmic expression in term of determinants of special Hessenberg matrices whose elements involve the Bernoulli numbers. On the other hand, for comparison, the authors recite and revise the second form for the Maclaurin power series expansion of the logarithmic expression in terms of the Bessel zeta functions and the Bernoulli numbers.
Estimation and Prediction for Alpha-Power Weibull Distribution Based on Hybrid Censoring
Authors: Almetwally Ehab M. , Alotaibi Refah , Rezk Hoda
Published: September 2023

This work discusses the issues of estimation and prediction when lifespan data following alpha-power Weibull distribution are observed under Type II hybrid censoring. We calculate point and related interval estimates for both issues using both non-Bayesian and Bayesian methods. Using the Newton–Raphson technique under the classical approach, we compute maximum likelihood estimates for point estimates in the estimation problem. Under the Bayesian approach, we compute Bayes estimates under informative and non-informative priors using the symmetric loss function. Using the Fisher information matrix under classical and Bayesian techniques, the corresponding interval estimates are derived. Additionally, using the best unbiased and conditional median predictors under the classical approach, as well as Bayesian predictive and associated Bayesian predictive interval estimates in the prediction approach, the predictive point estimates and associated predictive interval estimates are computed. We compare several suggested approaches of estimation and prediction using real data sets and Monte Carlo simulation studies. A conclusion is provided.
A Novel Concept of Complex Anti-Fuzzy Isomorphism over Groups
Authors: Almutairi Bander , Ali Arshad , Xin Qin , Khan Adnan
Published: September 2023

In this research article, the fundamental properties of complex anti-fuzzy subgroups as well as the influence of group homomorphisms on their characteristics are investigated. Both the necessary and sufficient conditions for a complex anti-fuzzy subgroup are defined; additionally, the image, inverse image and some vital primary features of complex anti-fuzzy subgroups are examined. Moreover, the homomorphic and isomorphic relations of complex anti-fuzzy subgroups under group homomorphism are discussed, and numerical examples for various scenarios to describe complex anti-fuzzy symmetric groups are provided. Finally, it is proven that every homomorphic image of a complex anti-fuzzy cyclic group is cyclic, but the converse may not be true.
How Does Iteration of Entrepreneurial Opportunities in User Enterprises Affect Entrepreneurial Performance? A Dual Case Study Based on Dual Strategic Orientations
Authors: Zhang Hongjin , Hu Longying , Kim Yeom
Published: September 2023

The iteration of entrepreneurial opportunities is vital to the growth and maintenance of long-term competitive advantages of user enterprises. However, there needs to be more comprehensive theoretical discussion within the academic community on how entrepreneurial opportunity iteration contributes to the entrepreneurial performance of user enterprises. In this study, we investigate Smartmi Technology and Zepp Technology as the research subjects and employ the case study method encoded in the programmed rootedness theory to uncover the intrinsic mechanism by which the entrepreneurial opportunity iteration of user enterprises affects entrepreneurial performance and explicate the mechanistic model between different types of entrepreneurial opportunity iteration and the dual strategic orientations and entrepreneurial performance. Specifically, the entrepreneurial opportunity iterations of user enterprises are mainly categorized into efficiency-based and innovative entrepreneurial opportunity iterations. The dual strategic orientations of stakeholder long-termism and professionalism play a significant moderating role in promoting user and growth performance improvement.
Connected and Automated Vehicles: Infrastructure, Applications, Security, Critical Challenges, and Future Aspects
Authors: Sadaf Memoona , Iqbal Zafar , Javed Abdul Rehman , Saba Irum , Krichen Moez , Majeed Sajid , Raza Arooj
Published: September 2023

Autonomous vehicles (AV) are game-changing innovations that promise a safer, more convenient, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation than traditional vehicles. Therefore, understanding AV technologies and their impact on society is critical as we continue this revolutionary journey. Generally, there needs to be a detailed study available to assist a researcher in understanding AV and its challenges. This research presents a comprehensive survey encompassing various aspects of AVs, such as public adoption, driverless city planning, traffic management, environmental impact, public health, social implications, international standards, safety, and security. Furthermore, it presents emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), integration of cloud computing, and solar power usage in automated vehicles. It also presents forensics approaches, tools used, standards involved, and challenges associated with conducting digital forensics in the context of autonomous vehicles. Moreover, this research provides an overview of cyber attacks affecting autonomous vehicles, attack management, traditional security devices, threat modeling, authentication schemes, over-the-air updates, zero-trust architectures, data privacy, and the corresponding defensive strategies to mitigate such risks. It also presents international standards, guidelines, and best practices for AVs. Finally, it outlines the future directions of AVs and the challenges that must be addressed to achieve widespread adoption.