bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Mitigation in Durian Cultivation in Thailand Using the House of Risk (HOR) Method: A Case Study of Pak Chong GI Durian
Authors: Jittamai Phongchai , Toek Sovann , Sathaporn Phumrapee , Kongkanjana Kingkan , Chanlawong Natdanai
Published: December 2024

Durian, often regarded as the “king of fruits”, plays a significant role in Thailand’s economy, with durian production expanding rapidly due to its profitability and high demand in both domestic and international markets. This growth has introduced challenges, particularly for geographic indication (GI)-certified durians like those from Pak Chong, where the unique soil, climate, and cultivation practices contribute to the fruit’s distinctive quality. Maintaining these standards is crucial to preserving GI certification, but farmers face increasing risks related to pests, diseases, climate variability, and cultivation practices. Effective risk management is essential to ensure the quality and sustainability of GI-certified durian production. This study analyzes risks in Pak Chong GI durian cultivation and proposes strategies to mitigate these risks. The House of Risk (HOR) method was used to identify potential risks at various stages of durian cultivation, including planting, maintenance, pre-harvest, harvest, and postharvest, and to recommend proactive mitigation strategies. This case study focuses on Pak Chong GI durian farmers. Thirty-one risk events driven by 17 risk agents were identified throughout the durian cultivation process. Key risk agents included observation of durian tree behavior, physical characteristics of the planting area, irrigation quantity, understanding of nutrient management, soil nutrients, and soil pH. The three most significant mitigation strategies identified were the implementation of targeted training and learning programs, improved data collection and plating progress tracking ability, and investment in advanced cultivation technology. This study analyzes the critical risks in Pak Chong GI-certified durian cultivation and proposes targeted mitigation strategies using the House of Risk (HOR) method. By identifying risks (HOR1) and developing proactive solutions (HOR2) across key cultivation stages, this research offers practical insights to enhance the quality and sustainability of GI-certified durian production. The findings aim to support farmers, policymakers, and stakeholders in preserving the economic and cultural value of Pak Chong durians.
Enhancing Sustainability in Advanced Oxidation Processes: CoFe2O4 as a Catalyst Reinforcement for Tartrazine Dye Degradation
Authors: Costa Matheus Londero da , Franco Dison Stracke Pfingsten , da Silva William Leonardo , Georgin Jordana , Oliveira Jivago Schumacher de
Published: December 2024

Globalization has increased production in various industries, including textiles, food, and pharmaceuticals. These industries employ different dyes in production, leading to undesired discharge, which conventional treatment fails to remove from the water. The present study aims to synthesize, characterize, and use different pure catalysts (TiO2 and Zn2SnO4) and their compounds doped with CoFe2O4 together with ozone (O3) for the degradation of the azo dye yellow tartrazine (TZ), evaluating the process. For this characterization, N2 porosimeter, zeta potential, X-ray diffraction, SEM-EDS, and diffuse reflectance spectra were used. Specific surface areas (m2 g−1) of 109, 106, 65, and 83 were used for TiO2, CoFe2O4/TiO2, Zn2SnO4, and CoFe2O4/Zn2SnO4, respectively. Both compounds are characterized as nanocatalysts as they have a band gap of 2.75 and 2.83 eV and average particle size of 98 and 85 nm for CoFe2O4/TiO2 and Zn2SnO4, respectively. We employed a reactional model, which was able to describe the catalytic ozonation for all cases, with a low R2 of 0.9731. The combination of processes increased TZ degradation from 57% to 74% compared to O3 alone, achieving a maximum degradation of 98.5% within 50 min of catalysis at a low ozone flow rate. This highlights the potential of the produced catalysts for energy-efficient effluent treatment.
Urban Expansion and Spatial Growth Patterns in Lucknow: Implications for Sustainable Development (1991–2021)
Authors: Khan Danish , Khan Nizamuddin , Choudhury Upasana , Singh Suraj Kumar , Kanga Shruti , Kumar Pankaj , Meraj Gowhar
Published: December 2024

Urbanization is a major driver of land-use change, with significant implications for sustainable development in rapidly growing cities. In this study, we assess the spatiotemporal patterns of urban expansion in Lucknow, India, from 1991 to 2021, using geospatial techniques and Landsat satellite imagery. The key objective is to analyze urban growth patterns, identify contributing factors, and evaluate the sustainability implications of these trends. Results reveal a nearly fivefold increase in built-up area, from 53.86 km2 in 1991 to 261.45 km2 in 2021. Edge development accounted for 55.99% of total urban expansion from 1991 to 2001, while ribbon development increased from 18.06% to 21.03% by 2021. Leapfrog development, considered unsustainable, rose from 12.35% in 1991 to 17.35% in 2021. Compared to previous studies, findings highlight the significant influence of transportation infrastructure and industrialization on urban sprawl, particularly in the northeastern and northwestern zones. This study contributes by offering a zone-wise analysis of growth patterns, which provides deeper insights into the dynamics of urban expansion. The findings are crucial for urban planners, as they suggest the need for more stringent zoning regulations and targeted infrastructure investments to manage future growth sustainably while minimising environmental impact.
Life Cycle Assessment of Mine Water Resource Utilization in China: A Case Study of Xiegou Coal Mine in Shanxi Province
Authors: Wang Xuan , Zhang Chi , Yuan Jin , Sui Xin , Di Shijing , Wang Haoyu
Published: December 2024

Climate change and water scarcity are two global challenges. Coal mining is the main source of carbon emissions. The utilization of mine water resources and its carbon footprint calculation are of paramount significance in promoting water conservation and carbon reduction in mining areas. However, research on the carbon footprint and other environmental indicators across the life cycle of mine water in developing countries, such as China, remains limited. This study focuses on a representative mine water resource utilization system in China and describes the method used to calculate carbon emissions associated with mine water resource utilization throughout its life cycle. Based on life cycle assessment (LCA) and using on-site investigations and analysis of environmental indicators, the study evaluates the environmental impacts at different stages of mine water resource utilization, identifies key processes, and provides some improvement suggestions. The research results indicate that the life cycle carbon emissions of mine water amount to 2.35 kg CO2 eq per 1 m3. The water extraction stage highlights the potential environmental impact, including water use (WU) and ozone depletion potential (ODP). By substituting traditional power generation methods and incorporating intelligent dosing equipment to optimize chemical usage, the global warming potential (GWP) has been decreased by over 90%, and the GWP of chemical consumption has also witnessed respective reductions of 21.5% and 10.1%. This study can serve as a basis for calculating carbon emissions in mining areas and formulating strategies to reduce their environmental impact.
Remaining Life Prediction of Automatic Fare Collection Systems from the Perspective of Sustainable Development: A Sparse and Weak Feature Fault Data-Based Approach
Authors: Xiong Jing , Sun Youchao , Xu Zhihao , Wan Yongbing , Yu Gang
Published: December 2024

The most effective way to solve urban traffic congestion in mega cities is to develop rail transit, which is also an important strategy for sustainable urban development. Improving the service performance of rail transit equipment is the key to ensuring the sustainable operation of urban rail transit. Automatic fare collection (AFC) is an indispensable system in urban rail transit. AFC directly serves passengers, and its condition directly affects the sustainability and safety of urban rail transit. This study proposes remaining useful life (RUL) prediction framework for AFC systems. Firstly, it proposes the quantification of AFC health state based on health degree, and proposes a health state assessment method based on digital analog fusion, which compensates for the shortcomings of single data-driven or model driven health methods. Secondly, it constructs a multi feature extraction method based on multi-layer LSTM, which can capture long-term temporal dependencies and multi-dimensional feature, overcoming the limitation of low model accuracy because of the weak data features. Then, the SSA-XGBoost model for AFC RUL prediction is proposed, which effectively performs global and local searches, reduces the possibility of overfitting, and improves the accuracy of the prediction model. Finally, we put it into practice of the AFC system of Shanghai Metro Line 10. The experiment shows that the proposed model has an MSE of 0.00111 and MAE of 0.02869 on the test set, while on the validation set, MSE is 0.00004 and MAE is 0.00659. These indicators are significantly better than other comparative models such as XGBoost, random forest regression, and linear regression. In addition, the SSA-XGBoost model also performs well on R-squared, further verifying its effectiveness in prediction accuracy and model fitting.
Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Fish Community and Influencing Factors in an Urban River (Haihe River), China
Authors: Tian Biao , Chang Suyun , Ye Shaowen , Zhang Yantao , Wang Yuncang , Wang Songqing , Wu Li , Zhang Tanglin
Published: December 2024

Urbanization significantly impacts river ecosystems, altering fish community structure and dynamics and posing challenges to the sustainable management of these vital resources. In the heavily urbanized Haihe River in China, understanding the spatial and seasonal variations of fish communities and the environmental factors influencing them is crucial for effective conservation and sustainable management. This study investigated fish communities and environmental variables at ten sites along an urbanization gradient in the upstream reach of the Haihe River over four seasons in 2023. A total of 6710 individual fishes representing 30 species were collected. The results showed that the most urbanized section exhibited higher species diversity but was dominated by tolerant, omnivorous species with similar functional traits, indicating functional homogenization. In contrast, less urbanized sections displayed greater seasonal fluctuations and supported species with specialized traits. Key environmental factors influencing fish community dynamics included nitrogen levels, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, and the abundance of the submerged macrophyte Potamogeton crispus. These factors varied spatially and seasonally, mediating the effects of urbanization on fish communities. The findings highlight the importance of environmental factors in shaping fish community dynamics in urban rivers and underscore the need for integrated management strategies that consider both anthropogenic impacts and natural influences to conserve fish diversity, river maintain ecosystem health and ensure long-term sustainability. Sustainable management practices that balance development with environmental protection are vital for preserving ecological integrity and enhancing the resilience of urban river systems to challenges such as urbanization.
What Drives Firms to Go Green in China? The Role of Digitalization
Authors: Pan Xiaoyan , Xiao Shufeng
Published: December 2024

With the deep integration and development of both the digital economy and the ecological economy, governments, media, researchers and others have begun paying great attention to green digital issues. Yet whether and how digital resources shape corporate social responsibility (CSR) remains unclear. This paper examines the relationship between digital resources, CSR, and environmental performance during a period of rapid technological development, with a focus on Chinese manufacturing enterprises. We draw on structural equation modeling (SEM) to verify how digitalization contributes to more environmentally friendly and sustainable economic development. Our dataset comprises survey data from 174 Chinese manufacturing companies, providing a theoretical basis and empirical support for the deep integration of digitalization with green and low-carbon transformation. The results demonstrate that digital resources significantly promote CSR, which in turn facilitates the improvement of environmental performance. We thus find that CSR plays a mediating role in the digital resources–environmental performance relationship. Consequently, companies can consider greening their innovations through CSR practices as part of the digital transformation environment. Finally, digital resources and CSR contribute to greening innovation in different ways. This study highlights the critical role of robust CSR in driving green performance during digital transformation. It addresses a significant research gap by exploring the synergistic relationship between digitalization and green innovation, emphasizing the strategic importance of integrating CSR to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes for both society and businesses. Additionally, the study identifies deficiencies in existing research regarding the interplay between digital transformation and CSR and investigates how enterprises can directly enhance environmental performance by leveraging digital resources within the context of the digital economy.
The Governance Process and the Influence on Heat Islands in the City of Quevedo, Coastal Ecuador
Authors: Muñoz Marcillo José Luis , Toulkeridis Theofilos , Miguel Veas Luis
Published: December 2024

This article addresses the study of the governance process and the influence of urban heat islands in the city of Quevedo on the coast of Ecuador, and thus contributes to the production of technical and scientific information with a view to their mitigation. To identify the UHI pattern and visualize the temperature distribution on the soil surface, light intensity patterns on the soil surface are identified by the digital processing of the Landsat 7 ETM image. The NDVI, NDSI, and SAVI indices were also calculated, and the AQI was subsequently obtained using a weighted numerical cross-tabulation. The results show that the NDVI and SAVI indicators are correlated with each other and present a strong and positive classification with the neighborhoods and special areas in which there is a high proportion of vegetation, while the NSI and SAVI indicators are positively correlated with the areas. in which there is a greater proportion of built-up areas and roads. From a comprehensive analysis of the reviewed indicators, the authors derived an environmental quality index that explains the beneficial effects of vegetation and negatively explains the detrimental effects of a city covered in cement.
Framing Energy Sufficiency in a Swiss Mountain Resort
Authors: Minguez Ivan , Loloum Tristan
Published: December 2024

This article analyses how energy sufficiency can be applied in tourism destinations. It begins by highlighting the importance of decarbonizing tourism for climate action, given the sector’s high CO2 emissions. Energy sufficiency, a key pillar of the energy transition, is defined as the voluntary reduction in energy demand within climate and CO2 emission constraints. The study investigates how stakeholders interpret and frame this concept, by focusing on strategies that align with the public image of the resort to reduce its energy requirements. The methodology includes semi-structured interviews with key players in Verbier—Val de Bagnes, focus groups with cooperation partners, participant observations at local meetings and events, and analysis of local documentation. Research was undertaken using living lab methods. The results reveal five main categories and eleven subcategories in which local stakeholders frame sufficiency, including oppositional framings, off-framings, selective framings, institutional framings, and disempowering framings. The article concludes with recommendations to reframe sufficiency in order to align with the destination’s strategy and representations. While energy sufficiency is often overshadowed by narratives of economic growth, technological innovation, and material abundance, it appears crucial to reframe these narratives and integrate post-growth strategies that prioritize sustainability in tourism planning.
Evolution and Future Challenges of Hydrological Elements in the Qinglongshan Irrigation Area: A Study on the Impact of Climate Change and Land Use Based on the Soil and Water Assessment Tool for the Qinglongshan Irrigation Area Model
Authors: Yin Ziwen , Liu Yan , Si Zhenjiang , Wang Longfei , Li Tienan , Meng Yan
Published: December 2024

In this study, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model was first initialized for the Qinglongshan Irrigation Area (QLS). We aimed to assess the impacts of climate and land use (LULC) changes between 1980 and 2020 on several hydrological parameters in the QLS, including actual evapotranspiration (ET), soil water (SW), soil recharge to groundwater (PERC), surface runoff (SURQ), groundwater runoff (GWQ), and lateral runoff (LATQ). We predicted the trends in hydrological factors from 2021 to 2050. Based on the S1 scenario, the precipitation and the paddy field area decreased by 42.28 mm and 1717.65 km2, respectively; hydrological factors increased by 91.53, 104.28, 50.66, 21.86, 55.93, and 0.79 mm, respectively, in the QLS. Climate changes contributed 6.10%, −7.58%, −54.11%, 26.90%, −121.17%, and −31.66% to changes in hydrological factors, respectively; LULC changes contributed −2.19%, 3.63%, 11.61%, −2.93%, 25.89%, and 16.86%, respectively; and irrigation water volume changes contributed 96.09%, 103.95%, 142.50%, 76.03%, 195.28%, and 114.80%, respectively. Irrigation and water intake were the main factors affecting the changes in hydrological elements. This was followed by climatic changes and LULC. In natural development scenarios, the QLS is anticipated to face challenges, including increased actual ET, reduced seepage and groundwater contribution, and declining groundwater levels.
The Impact of Building and Green Space Combination on Urban Thermal Environment Based on Three-Dimensional Landscape Index
Authors: Wang Ying , Ren Yin , Zheng Xiaoman , Wu Zhifeng
Published: December 2024

Urbanization transforms landscapes from natural ecosystems to configurations of impervious surfaces and green spaces, leading to urban heat island effects that impact health and ecosystem sustainability. This study in Xiamen City, China, categorizes urban areas into functional zones, employs Random Forest and Stepwise Regression models to assess thermal differences, and proposes optimization measures for the building–green space landscape. The optimization involves altering the characterization of the building–green space landscape pattern. Results indicate: (1) due to the spatial heterogeneity of the building–green space landscape pattern in different functional zones, the surface temperature also shows strong spatial heterogeneity in different functional zones; (2) different optimization measures for the building–green space pattern are needed for different functional zones; taking the urban residential zone as an example, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) in the hot spot area can be adjusted according to the value range of the cold spot area; (3) considering the solar radiation process, Sun View Factor (SunVF) plays an important role in indicating the change in surface temperature in the commercial service area, and as SunVF increases, the surface temperature of the functional zone tends to rise. This research offers insights into urban thermal environment improvement and landscape pattern optimization.
Association of Preoperative Parameters on Intraoperative Indicators in Myocardial Revascularization Surgery: Insights from a Targeted Complex Network Model
Authors: Bertolucci Vanessa , Ninomiya André Felipe , Souza João Paulo , Barbosa Felipe Fernandes Pires , Nonose Nilson , de Carvalho Lucas Miguel , Scariot Pedro Paulo Menezes , dos Reis Ivan Gustavo Masseli , Messias Leonardo Henrique Dalcheco
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Myocardial revascularization surgery (MR) is routinely performed in hospitals. However, there is a lack of an algorithm in the scientific literature aimed at predicting intraoperative parameters, such as total surgery time (TST) and cardiopulmonary bypass time (CBT), based on preoperative MR parameters. Therefore, the objective of the present study is to apply a complex network model to predict parameters associated with TST and CBT. Methods: Retrospective data from 124 patients who underwent MR, including medical history, vital signs, and laboratory/biochemical tests, were used, with 30 patients contributing to the construction of the network. Three complex networks were created to study the targets (TST and CBT). The Eigenvector metric was employed to investigate the parameters most relevant to these targets. Results: Regardless of the target, parameters derived from the blood gas analysis followed by erythrogram displayed greater relevance according to the eigenvector metric. However, for TST, the most prominent parameter was Red Blood Cells, while, for CBT, Diastolic Blood Pressure emerged as the most important variable. Conclusion: The targeted complex network model revealed that pulmonary, hemodynamic, and perfusion factors are relevant to the intraoperative parameters of MR. The networks also demonstrated that, although the targets show significant correlation with each other (TST and CBT-r = 0.76; p = 0.000), the importance of the parameters in the networks does not follow the same order. This reiterates the strength of the network in revealing specific information when a particular target is selected.
Gender Diversity in Canadian Surgical Residency
Authors: Valji Rahim H. , Mahmood Sheharzad , Verhoeff Kevin , Turner Simon R.
Published: December 2024

Background: Diversity of gender representation in surgery is known to positively influence patient outcomes and predict career trajectories for female trainees. This study aims to identify the current and recent past state of gender diversity amongst trainees entering Canadian surgical residency programs. Methods: Data were sourced from the Canadian Post-M.D. Education Registry (CAPER) and the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMs) for ten surgical specialties. CAPER data include PGY-1 trainees in all surgical specialties for the academic years 2012–2013 to 2021–2022. CaRMs provided data of total applicants and matched applicants for Canadian Medical Graduates (CMGs) in the match years 2013–2022. Results: From 2012–2022, there were 4011 PGY-1 surgical residents across Canada (50.4% female, 49.6% male). The surgical specialties with the most female representation were obstetrics/gynecology (82.1–91.9%), general surgery (40.2–70.7%), and plastic surgery (33.3–55.6%). The surgical specialties with the least female representation were neurosurgery (18.7–35.3%), urology (11.8–42%), and orthopedic surgery (17.5–38.5%). The number of female applicants to surgical programs has increased since 2013 and outnumbers male applicants each subsequent year. The match rate to surgical programs for female applicants has varied by year, with the highest being 63.9% in 2014 and the lowest in 2018 at 48.8%. Conclusions: Our study shows promising trends that reflect increased representation of female trainees. However, while the number of female trainees in general surgery and obstetrics/gynecology programs matches and even exceeds Canadian demographic proportions, this is not true for most other surgical specialties. This calls for continued efforts to improve and retain gender equity across surgical specialties in Canada.
Treatment of the Aortic Valve in the Modern Era—A Review of TAVR vs. SAVR
Authors: Dweck Albert , Ferrell Brandon E. , Guttman Daniel , Spindel Stephen M. , Sugiura Tadahisa
Published: December 2024

Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common valve disease in developed countries, with severe cases traditionally managed through surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). More recently, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has been used as a less invasive alternative, especially for patients deemed high-risk for surgery. This review aims to compare SAVR and TAVR by examining the efficacy, patient selection criteria, complications, and evolving guidelines. SAVR is the preferred option for patients at low surgical risk or with anatomical challenges unsuitable for TAVR. It offers well-documented durability and favorable long-term survival. Conversely, TAVR has gained acceptance for intermediate- and high-risk patients, with shorter recovery times and reduced immediate postoperative risks. However, questions surrounding its long-term durability in younger populations persist. Complications differ between the approaches, with TAVR associated with vascular access injuries and arrhythmic events, while SAVR presents risks tied to open surgery. As clinical guidelines evolve, patient age, comorbidities, and life expectancy play critical roles in determining the optimal intervention. This review highlights the need for tailored treatment approaches, given the expanding indications and evolving evidence for both SAVR and TAVR in AS management.
The Effect of Fractional Order of Time Phase Delay via a Mixed Integral Equation in (2 + 1) Dimensions with an Extended Discontinuous Kernel
Authors: Raad Sameeha A. , Abdou Mohammed A.
Published: December 2024

It is common knowledge that studying integral equations accompanied by and related to phase delay is significant, and that significance grows when considering the problem’s time factor. Through this study, one may predict the material’s state for a short time or infer its state before beginning the investigation. In this work, a phase-lag mixed integral equation (P-MIE) with a continuous kernel in time and a singular kernel in position is studied in (2 + 1) dimensions in the space L2([a,b]×[c,d])×C[0,T],T<1. The properties of fractional integrals are used to generate the mixed integral equation (MIE). Certain assumptions are considered in order to examine convergence, uniqueness of solution, and estimation error. We achieve a class of two-dimensional Fredholm integral equations (FIEs) with time-dependent coefficients after applying the separation technique. After that, we will get a linear algebraic system (LAS) in 2Ds applying the product Nystrӧm method (PNM). The convergence of the LAS’s unique solution is covered. Two applications on the MIE with a logarithmic kernel and a Carleman function are discussed to illustrate the viability and efficiency of the applied techniques. At the end, a valuable conclusion is established.
The Right–Left WG Inverse Solutions to Quaternion Matrix Equations
Authors: Kyrchei Ivan , Mosić Dijana , Stanimirović Predrag
Published: December 2024

This paper studies new characterizations and expressions of the weak group (WG) inverse and its dual over the quaternion skew field. We introduce a dual to the weak group inverse for the first time in the literature and give some new characterizations for both the WG inverse and its dual, named the right and left weak group inverses for quaternion matrices. In particular, determinantal representations of the right and left WG inverses are given as direct methods for their constructions. Our other results are related to solving the two-sided constrained quaternion matrix equation AXB=C and the according approximation problem that could be expressed in terms of the right and left WG inverse solutions. Within the framework of the theory of noncommutative row–column determinants, we derive Cramer’s rules for computing these solutions based on determinantal representations of the right and left WG inverses. A numerical example is given to illustrate the gained results.
Macroscopic Mechanical Properties of Periodic Nanocomposites Containing Arbitrarily-Shaped Inclusions
Authors: Wang Shuang , Jia Xin , Cheng Ming , Li Hongyuan , Yu Chuanbin , Yang Haibing
Published: December 2024

This study presents an in-depth analysis of the macroscopic mechanical properties of periodic nanocomposites containing arbitrarily-shaped inclusions, with a particular focus on the effective stiffness and its dependence on microstructural parameters. We employ a complex variable method to address the problem, considering the interface elasticity effect, which may significantly influence the stress distribution and overall stiffness of the nanocomposites. The research reveals that the effective stiffness of the nanocomposites is not only dependent on the volume fraction and shape of the inclusions but also on the interface properties, particularly the interface elasticity parameter. Our findings indicate that an increase in the interfacial elasticity parameter KS results in a stiffer composite, highlighting the importance of interfacial effects in determining the mechanical behavior of nanocomposites. The study also explores the impact of inclusion size and orientation on the effective stiffness, demonstrating size-dependent phenomena and the influence of orientation angle on the stiffness elements. These insights contribute to a better understanding of the mechanical properties of nanocomposites and provide a foundation for the design of materials with tailored properties for specific engineering applications.
Bi-Level Optimization Scheduling Strategy for PIES Considering Uncertainties of Price-Based Demand Response
Authors: Chen Xiaoyuan , Lei Jiazhi , Zhang Xiangliang
Published: December 2024

The asymmetry-induced uncertainty in both sources and loads is a crucial and continuously spotlighted issue within modern power systems. Applying optimization scheduling method to deal with this asymmetry is a feasible solution. Accordingly, this paper proposes a bi-level park-level integrated energy system (PIES) optimization strategy considering uncertainties of price-based load demand response (PLDR). Firstly, a model for characterizing the uncertainties of the PLDR is developed based on fuzzy theory. Secondly, a bi-level two-stage PIES optimization model that includes multiple device models is established. In the first stage, the dynamic pricing optimization is carried out with the aim of maximizing user satisfaction. In the second stage, the PIES scheduling strategy optimization is performed with the aim of minimizing the operation costs of PIES. Finally, multiple scenarios are set to conduct comparative validation, which demonstrates that the proposed method not only improves the renewable energy integration capacity of the system, optimizes the load profiles, and enhances the economic and low-carbon performance, but also increases user satisfaction, thus providing a reference for the dispatch and operation of the park-level integrated energy system.
Integrated Design Symmetry Method for Point Meshing Tooth Surfaces Based on Surface Envelope Approximation Theory
Authors: Zhou Kaihong , Mo Sengang , Li Shu
Published: December 2024

Based on the idea of a surface moving frame in differential geometry, a surface envelopment approximation method is proposed for the integrated design of point-contact tooth surfaces. This method utilizes the envelopment characteristic curve of the first tooth surface as the spline curve and adopts the local structure of the second tooth surface along a predesigned contact path as the surface interpolation condition. Through motion transformation described by the motion invariants of the first tooth surface, a conjugate motion space for the second tooth surface is fully defined by the motion invariants of the first tooth surface. This constitutes the basis of the integrated optimization design space and ensures the global optimization and machinability of the tooth surface design method. Using the experimental data of the point meshing tooth surface loading contact, the gap between the two tooth surfaces during no-load meshing is used as the design target parameter to predict and control the shape and size of the contact area under heavy load and further the symmetry requirements of the tooth surface design. Consequently, a variational inequality model for the global optimal design of the point meshing tooth surface is established.
Symmetries of Bernstein Polynomial Differentiation Matrices and Applications to Initial Value Problems
Authors: Mirkov Nikola , Fabiano Nicola , Nikezić Dušan , Stojiljković Vuk , Ilić Milica
Published: December 2024

In this study, we discuss the symmetries underlying Bernstein polynomial differentiation matrices, as they are used in the collocation method approach to approximate solutions of initial and boundary value problems. The symmetries are brought into connection with those of the Chebyshev pseudospectral method (Chebyshev polynomial differentiation matrices). The treatment discussed here enables a faster and more accurate generation of differentiation matrices. The results are applied in numerical solutions of several initial value problems for the partial differential equation of convection–diffusion reaction type. The method described herein demonstrates the combination of advanced numerical techniques like polynomial interpolation, stability-preserving timestepping, and transformation methods to solve a challenging nonlinear PDE efficiently. The use of Bernstein polynomials offers a high degree of accuracy for spatial discretization, and the CGL nodes improve the stability of the polynomial approximation. This analysis shows that exploiting symmetry in the differentiation matrices, combined with the wise choice of collocation nodes (CGL), leads to both accurate and efficient numerical methods for solving PDEs and accuracy that approach pseudospectral methods that use well-known orthogonal polynomials such as Chebyshev polynomials.
Convergence Order of a Class of Jarratt-like Methods: A New Approach
Authors: Kunnarath Ajil , George Santhosh , Padikkal Jidesh , Argyros Ioannis K.
Published: December 2024

Symmetry and anti-symmetry appear naturally in the study of systems of nonlinear equations resulting from numerous fields. The solutions of such equations can be obtained in analytical form only in some special situations. Therefore, algorithms or iterative schemes are mostly studied, which approximate the solution. In particular, Jarratt-like methods were introduced with convergence order at least six in Euclidean spaces. We study the methods in the Banach-space setting. Semilocal convergence is studied to obtain the ball containing the solution. The local convergence analysis is performed without the help of the Taylor series with relaxed differentiability assumptions. Our assumptions for obtaining the convergence order are independent of the solution; earlier studies used assumptions involving the solution for local convergence analysis. We compare the methods numerically with similar-order methods and also study the dynamics.
Unveiling the Multifaceted Driving Mechanism of Digital Transformation in the Construction Industry: A System Adaptation Perspective
Authors: Yuan Mengqi , Zang Wenfei , Li Long , Yi Ziwei
Published: December 2024

Various industries see digital transformation (DT) as the pillar to coping with intensified competition, energy crises, and climate change. As a critical sector for DT, the construction industry’s project-oriented paradigm and immature industrialized production method limit the research on emerging digital technology and ignore the theoretical mechanism. Through the lens of system adaptability, this study proposes a multifaceted model to examine the DT effectiveness and unveil the driving mechanism. (1) An extensive literature review, action research, and the nominal group technique identified 21 determinants, which were categorized into a technological–organizational–environmental (TOE) framework to analyze the construction industry’s DT determinants from multiple dimensions. (2) This research utilizes data from 272 respondents collected through field research, with a survey designed to measure the relationships among variables. (3) Structural equation modeling (SEM) through Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOSs) has been used to analyze the hypotheses and analyze the impact of determinants from various dimensions on DT and examine their influence pathways. The results indicate that determinants in the technological, organizational, and environmental dimensions positively affect DT’s success in the construction industry. The influence of the technological dimension is the strongest, and the organizational dimension is the weakest. The research findings offer valuable recommendations and insights for stakeholders in the construction industry, highlighting the importance of considering these three dimensions to enhance the overall effectiveness of DT when driving industry transformation and upgrading. Additionally, this study uses the TOE framework to reveal determinants from multiple dimensions. It combines SEM to explore the pathways of their effects, offering key theoretical insights for the body of knowledge.
Temporal Evolution of Environmental Impact Arising from Municipal Solid Waste Treatment Systems: A Case Study of Guangzhou, China
Authors: Zhou Guangli , Gu Yifan , Wu Yufeng , Gong Yu
Published: December 2024

It is important to assess the temporal evolution of environmental impacts arising from municipal solid waste (MSW) under different policies, especially in China. However, most previous research has primarily focused on the effects of policies at the system management level, neglecting their influence on technical-level implementation, which compromises the accuracy of policy effect simulations. This study developed a comprehensive simulation model that integrates a life cycle assessment (LCA) and a dynamic simulation model of a complex system to enhance the accuracy of environmental impact simulations of the MSW management system in Guangzhou. The model considers how different measures affect changes in the physical composition of MSW at the technical level and their subsequent impact on MSW generation at the system level. The study employed five scenarios to simulate the impacts of different strategies on MSW generation levels and environmental consequences of MSW treatment systems, encompassing the entire process of generation, collection, and disposal. LCA results simulate a 24.14% reduction in the unit environmental impact of incineration technology due to MSW classification, which alters the material composition, decreases water content, and enhances the caloric value. The comprehensive simulation model’s results illustrate that implementing measures such as MSW charging, economic control, and population control can effectively reduce overall MSW by 31.35%. In terms of environmental impact, Guangzhou reached its peak in 2018 but experienced a subsequent decline due to the continuous implementation of MSW classification policies. Among the various strategies considered, the scenario focusing on technological improvement exhibited the most significant reduction in overall environmental impact by enhancing power generation efficiency and minimizing pollution emissions, followed by metering and charging policies utilizing economic levers. Finally, recommendations on the coupling effect of policies, greenhouse gas emission reduction, and incineration residue recycling are proposed. The comprehensive simulation model can provide scientific theoretical support to build a sustainable MSW treatment system for Guangzhou and other cities worldwide.
Inhibition of Anti-Reflection Film Cracks on Plastic Substrates Using Nanolaminate Layer Deposition in Plasma-Enhanced Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Wang Chi-Chieh , Wang Cheng-Fu , Li Meng-Chi , Su Li-Chen , Kuo Chien-Cheng
Published: December 2024

In this research, we mainly increase the adhesion of PMMA substrate and film, which is reflected in the environmental test. This study used plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) to find the relationship between the intensity of XRD reflection peak and the root-mean-square surface roughness (σRMS) of hafnium dioxide (HfO2) at different thicknesses by reducing the plasma power at different process temperatures. In this experiment, HfO2 was found to have the highest intensity of XRD at its maximum thickness. According to the different intensities of XRD of HfO2 at different thicknesses, aluminum oxide (Al2O3) was inserted as crystallization cutoff layers, and the two materials were combined into nanolaminates. The corresponding σRMS value also changed from 1.25 to 0.434 nm after treatment under the fourth experimental design. This study improved this mismatch between interfaces by adjusting the yield strength and ductility using Al2O3 layers and by creating an inhibition layer. In addition, through the processing of inserted Al2O3 layers, the degree of crystallization was changed so that the material and substrate could maintain their normal surfaces without cracking after the environmental tests. After inserting five 1 nm thick Al2O3 layers, the environmental test results were improved. The test time was increased from the original 56 h to 352 h.
Opportunities and Challenges for Locally Sourced Meat and Seafood: An Online Survey of U.S. Restaurant Procurers
Authors: Richards Steven , Vassalos Michael
Published: December 2024

Considering the growing consumer demand for local food products in the United States, several restaurants are seeking to include locally sourced meat and seafood products on their menus. Despite this trend, limited research has examined what factors encourage or discourage restaurants from purchasing or purchasing more local proteins. This study extends the literature by investigating what traits are desired and what barriers exist when purchasing local proteins for restaurant procurers (those tasked with purchasing ingredients), utilizing data from an online survey. The results indicate that the top three desired traits for locally raised meats (beef, pork, chicken) are naturally grown, hormone-free, and organic. The most important traits for seafood (fish, crab, shrimp, and oysters) are the different certifications (i.e., Marine Stewardship Council, state/local certification, and Aquaculture Stewardship Council). The most common barriers are inconsistent quality, high cost, limited availability, and further processing needs. Results from a logistic regression suggest that restaurants characterized by fewer seats, higher entrée prices, and longer tenure are more likely to purchase local proteins. Restaurants willing to pay more for local proteins tend to be full-service types, have fewer seats, have higher entrée prices, serve other local foods, and cater to both tourists and residents.
The Effect of Cysteine on the Removal of Cadmium in Paddy Soil by Combination with Bioremediation and the Response of the Soil Microbial Community
Authors: Sarkodie Emmanuel Konadu , Li Kewei , Guo Ziwen , Yang Jiejie , Deng Yan , Shi Jiaxin , Peng Yulong , Jiang Yuli , Jiang Huidan , Liu Hongwei , Liang Yili , Yin Huaqun , Liu Xueduan , Jiang Luhua
Published: December 2024

Bioremediation is widely recognized as a promising and efficient approach for the elimination of Cd from contaminated paddy soils. However, the Cd removal efficacy achieved through this method remains unsatisfactory and is accompanied by a marginally higher cost. Cysteine has the potential to improve the bioleaching efficiency of Cd from soils and decrease the use cost since it is green, acidic and has a high Cd affinity. In this study, different combination modes of cysteine and microbial inoculant were designed to analyze their effects on Cd removal and the soil microbial community through the sequence extraction of Cd fraction and high-throughput sequencing. The results demonstrate that the mixture of cysteine and the microbial inoculant was the best mode for increasing the Cd removal efficiency. And a ratio of cysteine to microbial inoculant of 5 mg:2 mL in a 300 mL volume was the most economically efficient matching. The Cd removal rate increased by 7.7–15.1% in comparison with the microbial inoculant treatment. This could be ascribed to the enhanced removal rate of the exchangeable and carbonate-bound Cd, which achieved 94.6% and 96.1%, respectively. After the treatment, the contents of ammonium nitrogen (NH3–N), total phosphorus (TP), available potassium (AK), and available phosphorus (AP) in the paddy soils were increased. The treatment of combinations of cysteine and microbial inoculant had an impact on the soil microbial diversity. The relative abundances of Alicyclobacillus, Metallibacterium, and Bacillus were increased in the paddy soils. The microbial metabolic functions, such as replication and repair and amino acid metabolism, were also increased after treatment, which benefitted the microbial survival and adaptation to the environment. The removal of Cd was attributed to the solubilizing, complexing, and ion-exchanging effects of the cysteine, the intra- and extracellular adsorption, and the production of organic acids of functional microorganisms. Moreover, cysteine, as a carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur source, promoted the growth and metabolism of microorganisms to achieve the effect of the synergistic promotion of microbial Cd removal. Therefore, this study underscored the potential of cysteine to enhance the bioremediation performance in Cd-contaminated paddy soils, offering valuable theoretical and technical insights for this field.
Correction: Di Paola et al. Environmental Risk Assessment of Oxaliplatin Exposure on Early Life Stages of Zebrafish (Danio rerio). Toxics 2022, 10, 81
Authors: Di Paola Davide , Capparucci Fabiano , Abbate Jessica Maria , Cordaro Marika , Crupi Rosalia , Siracusa Rosalba , D’Amico Ramona , Fusco Roberta , Genovese Tiziana , Impellizzeri Daniela , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Spanò Nunziacarla , Gugliandolo Enrico , Peritore Alessio Filippo
Published: December 2024

In the original published publication [...]
Responses of an In Vitro Coculture Alveolar Model for the Prediction of Respiratory Sensitizers (ALIsens®) Following Exposure to Skin Sensitizers and Non-Sensitizers
Authors: Burla Sabina , Chary Aline , Serchi Tommaso , Cambier Sébastien , Sullivan Kristie , Baker Elizabeth , Sadekar Nikaeta , Gutleb Arno C.
Published: December 2024

In recent years, a global increase in allergy incidence following chemical exposure has been observed. While the process of skin sensitization is well characterized through the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework, the immunological mechanisms underlying respiratory sensitization remain less well understood. Respiratory sensitizers are classified as substances of very high concern (SVHC) under the European Union (EU) regulation for the registration, evaluation, authorization and restriction of chemicals (REACH), emphasizing the importance of evaluating respiratory tract sensitization as a critical hazard. However, the existing new approach methodologies (NAMs) for the identification of skin sensitizers lack the capacity to differentiate between skin and respiratory sensitizers. Thus, it is imperative to develop physiologically relevant test systems specifically tailored to assess respiratory sensitizers. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ALIsens®, a three-dimensional (3D) in vitro alveolar model designed for the identification of respiratory sensitizers and to determine its ability to correctly identify sensitizers. In this study, we used a range of skin sensitizers and non-sensitizers to define the optimal exposure dose, identify biomarkers, and establish tentative thresholds for correct sensitizer classification. The results demonstrate that ALIsens® is a promising in vitro complex model that could successfully discriminate respiratory sensitizers from skin sensitizers and non-sensitizers. Furthermore, the thymic stromal lymphopoietin receptor (TSLPr) cell surface marker was confirmed as a reliable biomarker for predicting respiratory sensitization hazards.