bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Interdisciplinary Scoping Review of Sustainable E-Learning within Human Resources Higher Education Provision
Authors: McCotter Sinéad
Published: October 2023

Background: This paper has identified a gap in the extant Human Resource higher education literature in relation to the use of sustainable e-learning pedagogy. As such, a scoping review has been undertaken to draw conclusions to help narrow this gap. This review is timely, given the rise in e-Human Resource practices in organisations. Introduction: For Human Resource e-learning to be truly sustainable, consideration also needs to be given to the broader driving forces impacting its long-term viability in university provision. The objectives of this paper are focused on exploring the interdisciplinary nature of the context, challenges, benefits, and future directions of sustainable e-learning in tertiary education. Design: the methodological design is based upon the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews. Discussion: this scoping review also considers the emerging e-learning sustainability issues at the university level to determine if a full systematic literature review would be beneficial in the long term. Conclusions: this paper offers conclusions to support Human Resource researchers and educators who wish to push the boundaries of sustainable e-learning research. Future Direction: this paper also points to the speed of advances in AI and the need to move from a uni-generational to a multi-generational sustainable e-learning focus.
Sustainability Indicators of Surface Public Transportation
Authors: Al-lami Ammar , Torok Adam
Published: October 2023

Historically, roads and transportation have been critical and essential factors in the development and prosperity of cities and societies. The well-being of cities and their expansion were measured by the road networks that linked them to the rest of the world, especially the land roads, which were the biggest challenges for communities. With time, the transportation sector has become an integral part of human life. However, this contribution to the development of cities has come to collide with the challenges arising from the means of transportation, which include large-scale environmental, economic, and social impacts on the communities benefiting from them. Therefore, it has become necessary to make transportation, especially public transportation, sustainable to address environmental challenges such as climate change. To achieve this, more than two thousand research papers published between 2002 and 2022 and retrieved from scientific databases using specific and connected keywords were preliminarily investigated based on the year and number of citations. It was necessary to identify the important sustainability indicators for each sector and study them closely in a detailed manner. We concluded that the sustainability of public transportation is directly affected by environmental, economic, technical, and social factors which can be expressed as follows: 1—emissions, pollution, and the consumption of energy resources as environmental indicators related to sustainability; 2—travel time, cost, travel distance, and operation cost as economic indicators; 3—social demographics, accessibility, and travel behaviours and time as social indicators; and 4—traffic flow, speed, and availability of infrastructures as technical indicators that affect transport sustainability.
Strategic Management and Organizational Innovation: Strategic Innovation as a Means to Improve Organizational Sustainability
Authors: Jeong Gap-Yeon , Park Byung Il
Published: October 2023

Welcome to this Special Issue of the Sustainability Journal on ‘Strategic management and organizational innovation: Strategic innovation as a means to improve organizational sustainability’ [...]
The Impact of the Quality of Logistics Services in E-Commerce on the Satisfaction and Loyalty of Generation Z Customers
Authors: Do Anh Duc , Ta Van Loi , Bui Phuong Thao , Do Ngoc Thuy , Dong Quynh Tho , Lam Hoai Thu
Published: October 2023

With the boom in e-commerce activities in Vietnam, the market size is expected to reach USD 52 billion by 2025, showing that e-commerce is a highly potential market. This also means that the level of competition between businesses is extremely fierce, so it requires optimization in each activity, especially e-logistics, to ensure smoothness, accuracy, and safety in distributing goods to consumers. Therefore, this study focuses on determining which factors of e-logistics activities affect the satisfaction and loyalty of Generation Z customers and their influence. The team collected opinions from 510 customers who had purchased goods through an e-commerce platform and then analyzed them using Smart-PLS3. The results show that delivery time is the most critical factor determining customer satisfaction, while the availability of goods is the factor that contributes the most to the loyalty of Generation Z customers. In the context of e-commerce development in Vietnam, the research has contributed to business enterprises’ scale of e-logistics service quality and assessed the importance of each factor so that enterprises can base on that to evaluate their service quality and improve satisfaction, loyalty to customers, and competitiveness.
Heterogeneous Traffic Flow Signal Control and CAV Trajectory Optimization Based on Pre-Signal Lights and Dedicated CAV Lanes
Authors: Wang Jixiang , Yu Haiyang , Chen Siqi , Ye Zechang , Ren Yilong
Published: October 2023

This paper proposes a control system to address the efficiency and pollutant emissions of heterogeneous traffic flow composed of human-operated vehicles (HVs) and connected and automated vehicles (CAVs). Based on the comprehensive collection of information on the flow of heterogeneous traffic, the control system uses a two-layer optimization model for signal duration calculation and CAV trajectory planning. The upper model optimizes the phase duration in real time based on the actual total number and type of vehicles entering the control adjustment zone, while the lower model optimizes CAV lane-changing strategies and vehicle acceleration optimization curves based on the phase duration optimized by the upper model. The target function accounts for reducing fuel usage, carbon emission lane-changing costs, and vehicle travel delays. Based on the Webster optimal cycle formula, an improved cuckoo algorithm with strong search performance is created to solve the model. The numerical data confirmed the benefits of the suggested signal control and CAV trajectory optimization method based on pre-signal lights and dedicated CAV lanes for heterogeneous traffic flow. Intersection capacity was significantly enhanced, CAV average fuel consumption, carbon emission and lane-changing frequency were significantly reduced, and traffic flow speed and delay were significantly improved.
Impacts of ESG Disclosure on Corporate Carbon Performance: Empirical Evidence from Listed Companies in Heavy Pollution Industries
Authors: Yin Fengxue , Xiao Yanling , Cao Rui , Zhang Jianhua
Published: October 2023

With the increasing severity of global climate change, environmental issues have become a key factor constraining sustainable economic development. Environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) is in line with the concept of enterprises’ sustainable development, and it is significant to study the mechanism of ESG disclosure on corporate carbon performance for the low-carbon transformation of enterprises. Based on the panel data of Chinese heavily polluting companies, a two-way fixed-effects model is used to analyze the relationship theoretically and validate the empirical data. It is found that ESG disclosure significantly contributes to corporate carbon performance, and corporate carbon performance will increase by 1.2% for each level of ESG disclosure. A series of robustness tools, such as endogeneity tests, replacement of critical variables, and control variable treatment, further verify that the main findings are robust and reliable. Heterogeneity analysis shows that the growth and ownership attributes of heavily polluting firms can lead to a heterogeneous characterization of the impact of ESG disclosure on firms’ carbon performance. In addition, the institutional environment and media attention moderate the relationship between ESG disclosure and corporate carbon performance. The results of this study provide empirical support for promoting carbon performance in China’s heavy-polluting industries and achieving the “double carbon” goal.
Travelers’ (in)Resilience to Environmental Risks Emphasized in the Media and Their Redirecting to Medical Destinations: Enhancing Sustainability
Authors: Gajić Tamara , Minasyan Larisa A. , Petrović Marko D. , Bakhtin Victor A. , Kaneeva Anna V. , Wiegel Narine L.
Published: October 2023

This research delves into the intricate dynamics of travelers’ decision-making processes, particularly their response to the media’s portrayal of environmental risks and the subsequent redirection of their travel choices toward medical destinations (MD). Employing a sophisticated research approach combining path analysis with moderation and multilinear logistic regression models, this study investigates the nuanced factors underlying travelers’ resilience to environmental risks and their propensity to opt for medical destinations. The results of the path analysis reveal a complex network of direct influences of factors from the PPM model (push, pull, and mooring) on choosing a medical destination in the sense that, before moderation, the only significant direct effect on the intention to choose medical destination (MD) was the pull factors. Through moderation, a significant effect of all three factors was achieved, while the direction of influence was changed in the case of push and pull factors. Furthermore, the multinomial logistic regression showed that the respondents prefer to go to a medical destination rather than a rural or urban one after the media emphasis on environmental risks. By integrating these analytical approaches and models, this research advances our understanding of how travelers navigate their choices amid environmental uncertainty. Furthermore, this research sheds light on the pivotal role that these traveler choices play in shaping the sustainability of medical destinations, offering essential insights for stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers navigating the evolving landscape of these destinations.
Impact of Power Interruption on Buildings and Neighborhoods and Potential Technical and Design Adaptation Methods
Authors: Hachem-Vermette Caroline , Yadav Somil
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of the impact of energy interruptions on people, buildings, and neighborhoods and discusses some technological and design strategies to mitigate some of these impacts. An exhaustive literature review was carried out employing keyword searches in the ScienceDirect and Scopus databases. The literature focuses mainly on 37 keywords, which occurred in more than two sources. Based on this literature survey, the paper highlights that, depending on their duration, power outages can have a severe impact on people, buildings, and neighborhoods. The lives of vulnerable individuals dependent on electrical medical devices can be threatened even in short-term power interruption scenarios. Longer-term power outages affect multiple aspects of daily life, such as communication, thermal comfort, life quality, transportation, health, and security, in addition to potential damage to buildings and their contents. The paper identifies and discusses various methods that can be implemented to reduce vulnerability and improve adaptation to climate-related power interruptions. These methods range from simple, low-tech solutions that enable users to temporarily cope with hours of interruption to more sophisticated methods requiring advanced planning. These adaptation and coping methods are classified according to various criteria, including their ease of implementation, accessibility, potential cost, ease of use by occupants, and their potential to address various needs. The paper finally discusses the impact of building and neighborhood design on improving adaptation to energy interruptions. High-performance building design can extend the time that a building can passively operate without reliance on mechanical systems for heating and for cooling. Building shape and geometry, as well as the spatial design of the neighborhood, can maximize solar access and therefore facilitate the implementation of PV and solar technologies. In addition, the design of mixed-use neighborhoods with access to various facilities and basic amenities assists in prolonging the self-reliance of the community as a whole. This work aligns with the vision of the Sustainable Development Goals: by identifying methods and technologies to reduce the impact of power interruptions and improve the energy resilience of urban areas around the globe, this work can contribute to the direct and indirect fulfillment of several Sustainable Development Goals (e.g., SDGs 7, 11, 13, and others). Although the work is performed in a North American context and specifically refers to the Canadian climate, the methodology can be implemented in other climatic and regional conditions.
Sustainable Management of International Partnerships for Cultural Heritage Digitization in Brazil
Authors: Borin Elena , Rossato Luca
Published: October 2023

The demand for digitized cultural heritage has increased over the last few decades; digitization is indeed considered a powerful means to preserve and enhance cultural heritage and make it accessible to the wider public for education and research purposes. However, digitizing cultural heritage is a complex process, requiring specific competencies, skills, software, technologies, and, therefore, human and financial resources. Cultural organizations are therefore rethinking their traditional business models, often deciding to outsource their digitization projects or implementing PPPs—public–private partnerships. This is particularly evident in developing countries, where it is also challenging to find the required resources locally and international cooperation is sometimes necessary. However, international PPPs for the digitization of cultural heritage present several unsustainable aspects. There is therefore a need for a deeper understanding of which practices should be implemented to sustainably manage these collaborations. This paper aims to investigate this topic using a case study analysis of two international PPPs for the digitization of cultural heritage in Brazil. The analysis highlights relevant managerial choices that led these projects to positively impact local social, economic, and environmental development, thus bringing early insights to advance the academic and practice discussions on the above-mentioned topic.
Events-Based Service Quality and Tourism Sustainability: The Mediating and Moderating Role of Value-Based Tourist Behavior
Authors: Alsiehemy Ali
Published: October 2023

The tourism industry thrives on a multifaceted nexus among service quality, tourist satisfaction, delight, and sustainability. In particular, the tourism industry in Saudi Arabia brings prosperity and economic support by organizing cultural festivals and events in Riyadh. Therefore, this study investigates the direct effects of service quality on tourist satisfaction, delight, and sustainability. Additionally, this study also examines the mediating role of tourist satisfaction and delight on the one hand and the moderating role of trip experience and value. Employing a quantitative research approach, this study used a structured survey questionnaire to collect data from 430 international tourists who visited festivals and events in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Using Smart PLS, SEM was used to test the hypotheses. The findings revealed a strong positive effect of service quality on tourist satisfaction and delight and, in turn, on tourism sustainability. Tourist satisfaction and delight mediate the relationship between service quality and tourism sustainability. This study further established significant moderating effects between trip value and service quality on tourist delight. Accordingly, the tourism industry should prioritize high service quality as it significantly influences tourist perceptions and sustainable outcomes. Additionally, trip experiences and higher service quality lead to higher tourist satisfaction and delight. Furthermore, while not directly determining satisfaction, perceived value plays a pivotal role in strengthening tourist delight when combined with top-tier service quality.
Sustainable Public Transportation in a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous (VUCA) Age
Authors: Kovács Tünde Zita , Nábrádi András , Tóth Szabolcs , Huzsvai László , Nagy Adrián , Bittner Beáta
Published: October 2023

A well-functioning public transport system is one of the foundations of the Smart city concept and sustainable cities. The COVID period offers an excellent opportunity to examine the impact of different factors, because throughout this period society was faced with both health and governmental impacts that had different effects. Public transport use in the EU member states from the turn of the millennium until the beginning of the pandemic ranged from 17–18% to 27% of total journeys. The COVID-19 virus caused a 5–7% decrease in public transport use. The present study analyses the relationship between these effects and the number of paying passengers on public transport in Debrecen. Four hypotheses were put forward, i.e., that (1) the evolution of travel tickets, (2) general passes, (3) discounted passes and (4) replacement tickets were influenced by the evolution of the active COVID-19 case rate. The data were collected from the Debrecen Transport Company (DKV) for the period 1 January 2020–12 December 2021, and the Worldometers.info database. Statistical analyses were performed using an autoregressive and moving average (ARMA) model. We found that COVID’s active case numbers did not affect sales, but some of the government measures did have an effect. The results of this research can be used to inform future decisions to maintain and improve urban transport.
Research on a Speed Guidance Strategy for Mine Vehicles in Three-Fork Roadways Based on Vehicle–Road Coordination
Authors: Zhang Chuanwei , Xue Xibo , Qin Peilin , Dong Lingling
Published: October 2023

Aiming at the traffic congestion problem of mining vehicles in the intersection area of three-fork roadways in coal mines, this paper proposes a speed guidance strategy based on a vehicle–road cooperative environment to adjust the running state of mining vehicles in the three-fork roadway system. The proposed speed guidance strategy can realize the safe and effective passage of underground mining vehicles to the greatest extent. Taking a three-fork roadway in a coal mine as an actual case, the operation of mining vehicles in the three-fork roadway is optimized and scheduled. Through the joint simulation of PTV VISSIM 4.3 traffic simulation software and PYTHON 3.7, the travel time, number of queuing vehicles, and delay time of mining vehicles passing through the three-fork roadway entrance under the two conditions of no speed and speed guidance in the coal mine are simulated and compared. The results show that after using the proposed speed guidance strategy for scheduling, mining vehicles can quickly pass through the three-fork roadway intersection. The travel time is reduced by 18.4%, the number of queuing vehicles is reduced by 41.5%, and the delay time is reduced by 24.1%, which effectively improves the transportation efficiency of underground mining vehicles.
Influence of Lime on Strength of Structural Unreinforced Masonry: Toward Improved Sustainability in Masonry Mortars
Authors: Ramesh Meera , Parente Manuel , Azenha Miguel , Lourenço Paulo B.
Published: October 2023

The choice of a sustainable construction material needs to take into account not just the environmental impact of the material, but according to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by the UN, one also needs to consider ease of access, the utilization of locally available materials, and the durability and reliability of the construction itself. Mortared masonry has been used around the world for several hundred years as an accessible type of construction. In masonry mortars, lime and cement are often integrated together for combined advantages: enhanced workability, breathability, and better environmental performance due to the former, and higher strength and shorter setting duration due to the latter. However, despite being extensively studied for their effects on the mechanical properties of mortar, not much is known about the impact of varying lime and cement ratios in the binder on the mechanical performance of masonry as a whole. Variations in the properties of mortars do not always have a significant impact on the mechanical behavior of masonry structures. Therefore, this article details an experimental campaign to measure the compressive strength, E-modulus, flexural strength, and shear bond strength of masonry samples containing two distinct lime–cement mortars (1:2:9 and 1:1:6 cement:lime:sand) and one cement mortar (1:0:5). The results show that more than the presence of lime in the mortar, the strength of the mortar influenced the flexural strength of the masonry ranging from 0.1 to 1.2 MPa. No discernable correlation was observed between the presence of lime in the mortar and the cohesion in the masonry (0.29 to 0.41 MPa). The values of the compressive strength (6.0 to 7.2 MPa) and E-modulus (3.8 to 4.5 GPa) of the masonry decreased and pre-peak ductility increased with an increase in the quantity of lime in the mortar. The recommendations of Eurocode 6 for the flexural strength of the initial shear bond strength were found to be conservative for different mortar strength classes, and significantly unconservative for compressive strength (by 50% to 70%).
New Subclass of Close-to-Convex Functions Defined by Quantum Difference Operator and Related to Generalized Janowski Function
Authors: Al-Shaikh Suha B. , Khan Mohammad Faisal , Kamal Mustafa , Ahmad Naeem
Published: October 2023

This work begins with a discussion of the quantum calculus operator theory and proceeds to develop and investigate a new family of close-to-convex functions in an open unit disk. Considering the quantum difference operator, we define and study a new subclass of close-to-convex functions connected with generalized Janowski functions. We prove the necessary and sufficient conditions for functions that belong to newly defined classes, including the inclusion relations and estimations of the coefficients. The Fekete–Szegő problem for a more general class is also discussed. The results of this investigation expand upon those of the previous study.
Combination Test for Mean Shift and Variance Change
Authors: Gao Min , Shi Xiaoping , Wang Xuejun , Yang Wenzhi
Published: October 2023

This paper considers a new mean-variance model with strong mixing errors and describes a combination test for the mean shift and variance change. Under some stationarity and symmetry conditions, the important limiting distribution for a combination test is obtained, which can derive the limiting distributions for the mean change test and variance change test. As an application, an algorithm for a three-step method to detect the change-points is given. For example, the first step is to test whether there is at least a change-point. The second and third steps are to detect the mean change-point and the variance change-point, respectively. To illustrate our results, some simulations and real-world data analysis are discussed. The analysis shows that our tests not only have high powers, but can also determine the mean change-point or variance change-point. Compared to the existing methods of cpt.meanvar and mosum from the R package, the new method has the advantages of recognition capability and accuracy.
Study on the Criteria for Starlikeness in Integral Operators Involving Bessel Functions
Authors: Oros Georgia Irina , Oros Gheorghe , Bardac-Vlada Daniela Andrada
Published: October 2023

The study presented in this paper follows a line of research familiar for Geometric Function Theory, which consists in defining new integral operators and conducting studies for revealing certain geometric properties of those integral operators such as univalence, starlikness, or convexity. The present research focuses on the Bessel function of the first kind and order ν unveiling the conditions for this function to be univalent and further using its univalent form in order to define a new integral operator on the space of holomorphic functions. For particular values of the parameters implicated in the definition of the new integral operator involving the Bessel function of the first kind, the well-known Alexander, Libera, and Bernardi integral operators can be obtained. In the first part of the study, necessary and sufficient conditions are obtained for the Bessel function of the first kind and order ν to be a starlike function or starlike of order α∈[0,1). The renowned prolific method of differential subordination due to Sanford S. Miller and Petru T. Mocanu is employed in the reasoning. In the second part of the study, the outcome of the first part is applied in order to introduce the new integral operator involving the form of the Bessel function of the first kind, which is starlike. Further investigations disclose the necessary and sufficient conditions for this new integral operator to be starlike or starlike of order 12.
Exploring the Interactions between Human microRNAs and the Ilheus Virus Genome
Authors: Souza Joyhare Barbosa , Casseb Samir Mansour Moraes
Published: October 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that play a fundamental role in the regulation of gene expression in humans. There has been a growing interest in investigating the interactions between human miRNAs and viruses to better understand the underlying mechanisms of the immune response and viral pathogenesis. The Ilheus virus, an arbovirus transmitted by mosquitoes, is known to cause disease in humans, with symptoms ranging from mild fever to severe neurological complications. This scientific article aims to explore the potential role of human miRNAs in their association with the genome of the Ilheus virus. Previous research has indicated that miRNAs can affect viral replication and the host’s immune response, playing a critical role in modulating the virus–host interaction. Here, we will investigate the possible interactions between specific human miRNAs and regions of the Ilheus virus genome, focusing on identifying miRNAs that may impact viral replication or the host’s immune response. A search for potential human miRNAs associated with the viral genome of ILHV was conducted through database searches such as miRBase. For the elucidation of targets regulated by these miRNAs, the TargetScan program was adopted. Functional enrichment analysis, inferring the function of genes regulated by miRNAs, was provided by the DAVID software. To elucidate the secondary structure, tools hosted in the RNAFold repositories were employed. In summary, our research has identified miRNAs linked to crucial sections of the Ilheus virus genome. These miRNAs can potentially regulate genes associated with neurological and immune functions. This highlights the intricate interplay between human miRNAs and the Ilheus virus genome, suggesting a pivotal role for these molecules in the host’s response to viral infections.
Insights from the Construction of Adenovirus-Based Vaccine Candidates against SARS-CoV-2: Expecting the Unexpected
Authors: Weklak Denice , Tisborn Julian , Mangold Maurin Helen , Scheu Raphael , Wodrich Harald , Hagedorn Claudia , Jönsson Franziska , Kreppel Florian
Published: October 2023

To contain the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, rapid development of vaccines was required in 2020. Rational design, international efforts, and a lot of hard work yielded the market approval of novel SARS-CoV-2 vaccines based on diverse platforms such as mRNA or adenovirus vectors. The great success of these technologies, in fact, contributed significantly to control the pandemic. Consequently, most scientific literature available in the public domain discloses the results of clinical trials and reveals data of efficaciousness. However, a description of processes and rationales that led to specific vaccine design is only partially available, in particular for adenovirus vectors, even though it could prove helpful for future developments. Here, we disclose our insights from the endeavors to design compatible functional adenoviral vector platform expression cassettes for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. We observed that contextualizing genes from an ssRNA virus into a DNA virus provides significant challenges. Besides affecting physical titers, expression cassette design of adenoviral vaccine candidates can affect viral propagation and spike protein expression. Splicing of mRNAs was affected, and fusogenicity of the spike protein in ACE2-overexpressing cells was enhanced when the ER retention signal was deleted.
Regional Differences in Uptake of Vaccination against COVID-19 and Influenza in Germany: Results from the DigiHero Cohort
Authors: Klee Bianca , Diexer Sophie , Sarajan Myka Harun , Glaser Nadine , Binder Mascha , Frese Thomas , Girndt Matthias , Sedding Daniel , Hoell Jessica I. , Moor Irene , Gekle Michael , Mikolajczyk Rafael , Gottschick Cornelia
Published: October 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany, vaccination uptake exhibited considerable regional disparities. To assess the factors contributing to this variation, we examined the association of sociodemographic variables with COVID-19, COVID-19 booster, and influenza vaccination status within a cohort of 37,078 participants from 13 German federal states in the digital health cohort study commonly known as DigiHero. Our findings revealed variations in vaccination rates based on sociodemographic factors. However, these factors had limited explanatory power regarding regional differences in vaccine uptake. In contrast, we found substantial correlations between regional support of specific parties during the last local elections and the vaccination uptake at the level of each administrative district. In conclusion, sociodemographic factors alone did not suffice to explain the regional disparities in vaccine uptake. Political stances can play a major role, although the current investigation did not assess individual political orientations but rather used only an ecological approach.
Efficient and Low-Cost Water Remediation for Chitosan Derived from Shrimp Waste, an Ecofriendly Material: Kinetics Modeling, Response Surface Methodology Optimization, and Mechanism
Authors: Benazouz Kheira , Bouchelkia Nasma , Imessaoudene Ali , Bollinger Jean-Claude , Amrane Abdeltif , Assadi Aymen Amine , Zeghioud Hicham , Mouni Lotfi
Published: October 2023

The hydrothermal production of chitosan from the carapaces of gray shrimp was carried out, and the obtained material was characterized via X-ray diffraction analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and pH zero-charge point, giving the expected results. Orange G dye adsorption onto synthetized chitosan was investigated in a batch system, the kinetic study was well-described by a nonlinearized pseudo-second-order model, and the equilibrium data indicated that the nonlinear Langmuir form was appropriate to describe the adsorption system with a maximum adsorption capacity of 34.63 mg/g compared with that found experimentally of 31.9 mg/g. The influences of most of the operating parameters, such as pH, adsorbent concentration, temperature, initial dye concentration, and contact time, were studied. These five independent variables acting on the adsorption performance of Orange G were selected for optimization and modeling processes through a central rotating composite design using response surface methodology (RSM). The percentage of removal of Orange G by chitosan prepared from shrimp shells was predicted with a second-degree polynomial equation, and the postulated model was valid and represented well the phenomenon studied in the experimental domain, with an R2 = 0.98 and an RAdj = 0.95. An initial Orange G concentration of 10 mg/L, a pH of 6.5, a chitosan amount of 0.3 g/L, a temperature of 25 °C, and an adsorption time of 450 min were found to be the optimum conditions in batch mode for the maximum uptake of Orange G (removal of 97.43%).
Experimental Study on the Stability of Shallow Landslides in Residual Soil
Authors: Yin Lin , Huang Chuansheng , Hao Shuren , Miao Li , Li Junyi , Qiu Yonggang , Liu Huo
Published: October 2023

Landslide disasters are one of the most severe geological hazards in China. Soil slopes are prone to triggering landslides under the influence of main factors such as rainfall, resulting in economic losses, casualties, and ecological damage. Taking a residual soil landslide in Xingguo County as an example, this study investigated the influencing factors and mechanical properties of soil slope stability under rainfall infiltration through physical model experiments. The main conclusions were as follows: with the increase in rainfall intensity, the amount of rainwater infiltration and the weight of the soil mass increased, which led to greater changes in soil pressure. The maximum amplitude of the experimental process was 5.51 kPa. The response time of pore water pressure under a rainfall intensity of 45 mm/h was 20–30 min earlier than that under a rainfall intensity of 21 mm/h, with a larger fluctuation range. The maximum amplitude of the experimental process was 6.66 kPa. Under the condition of rainfall intensity of 21 mm/h, the slope undergone local shallow sliding failure, while under the condition of rainfall intensity of 45 mm/h, the slope undergone overall shallow sliding failure. The physical model experimental results were consistent with the historical deformation of the landslide and the actual situation on site. The conclusions of the experiment can provide a reference for the research on the failure mechanism of similar landslides.
Co-Pyrolysis of Fenton Sludge and Pomelo Peel for Heavy Metal Stabilization: Speciation Mechanism and Risk Evaluation
Authors: Huang Cheng , Wang Lixian , Fan Lingyi , Chen Yong
Published: October 2023

The safe disposal and resource utilization of Fenton sludge (FS) are challenges due to the presence of heavy metals (HMs). Co-pyrolysis with biomass waste can effectively increase biochar quality and immobilize HMs, but research focusing on heavy metal stabilization from Fenton sludge using the co-pyrolysis approach is scattered. In this study, the co-pyrolysis of FS and pomelo peel (PP) was developed as a strategy to reduce the environmental risk of HMs. The results showed that co-pyrolysis greatly increased the pH and aromaticity of biochars, and the maximum specific surface area was 6.5 times higher than the corresponding FS-based biochar due to the sponge-like structure of PP, which was likely conducive to adsorbing HMs during pyrolysis. Meanwhile, the addition of PP promoted the enrichment of HMs in co-pyrolyzed biochars as well as induced the transformation of bio-available HM fractions to stable forms, especially at high temperatures. Finally, the presence of PP led to the decline in HM leachability in biochars; thus, the potential ecological risks of HMs decreased from considerable pollution levels to moderate and even clean levels. This study demonstrated that co-pyrolysis with PP is a promising approach to reduce the toxicity of HMs and improve the functionality of biochar for industrial sludge management.
Determination of Aquitard Storage from Pumping Tests in Leaky Aquifers
Authors: De Smedt Florimond
Published: October 2023

The management of groundwater resources requires a thorough understanding of groundwater flow and storage. Aquitards, in particular, can store large amounts of groundwater, but are generally often overlooked or ignored in groundwater surveys. In this study, we show how a pumping test performed in a leaky aquifer can be used to estimate the storage coefficient of an overlying aquitard. A new analytical solution is presented for a constant-rate pumping test in a leaky aquifer taking into account the water released from storage in the aquitard. The utility of the method is demonstrated by a practical application using data from a pumping test conducted in a semi-confined sandy aquifer overlain by an aquitard consisting of a mixture of clay and sand. The results obtained show that the solution enables the accurate calculation of the storage properties of the aquitard.
Rooted Water Collectives in a Modernist and Neoliberal Imaginary: Threats and Perspectives for Rural Water Commons
Authors: Hofstetter Moritz , Bolding Alex , Boelens Rutgerd
Published: October 2023

Water schemes that rely on user (co-) ownership and collective action have been described in the irrigation sector for a long time. Still, interest in such forms of (co-) investment in the domestic/multiple use sector is more recent. To address the persisting issue of rural water service, (what has been coined) self-supply is proclaimed to be a (supposedly) low-cost, sustainable manner to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). User (co-) investments are to be promoted and realized through the creation of an enabling policy environment and development of, and training on, low-cost technologies through government and NGO support and private sector-steered access to such technologies. In this article, we apply the Rooted Water Collectives (RWC) framework to describe two such schemes, one in South Africa and one in Switzerland. The data collection followed an action research methodology, with the main author being involved in interventions in all three schemes. We show here that these collectives create positions of purpose within societies and that what motivates people is to help themselves and contribute to the greater good of the community. This article shows that interventions to foster and sustain such collective actions that follow a neoliberal/modernist imaginary negatively affect their viability since these collectives, through their other-than-capitalist interactions, form part of and depend on an alternative imaginary. We conclude that interventions aiming to strengthen forms of collective action can only succeed if they recognize contextuality, unequal power relationships, and grass-rooted forms of interdependence and collaboration, and actively build on and work toward such alternative, more convivial imaginaries.
Characteristics and Research Significance of Micro-Nanoparticles in Geothermal Fluids in the Central Area of Shandong Province
Authors: Zuo Lei , Zhang Peng , Wang Yaqin , Liu Rui , Ma Guangxi
Published: October 2023

The micro-nanoparticles found in geothermal fluids exhibit distinct characteristics that hold great potential for detecting deeply concealed geothermal resources. Utilizing a nanoparticle tracking analyzer (NTA), we conducted observations on karst geothermal fluids collected from the central region of Shandong Province, specifically Jinan and Zibo. Our investigation revealed the presence of a significant quantity of naturally occurring micro-nanoparticles within these geothermal fluids, with particle sizes typically falling in the range of 100 nm to 5 μm. To gain a comprehensive understanding of these micro-nanoparticles, we subjected them to a detailed analysis, encompassing their type, shape, crystal structure, and chemical composition. This in-depth examination was carried out using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Our findings, supported by TEM images and energy dispersive spectroscopy, indicated that these micro-nanoparticles in the geothermal fluid samples predominantly exhibit amorphous characteristics and possess irregular or nearly spherical shapes, often accompanied by rough edges. Furthermore, it was evident that the composition of these micro-nanoparticles primarily consists of carbonates, sulfates, and chlorides, which contain elements such as Fe, Ca, and Na. The distinctive features of these micro-nanoparticles provide valuable insights into the properties of the high-temperature reservoirs and aquifers from which they originate. As a result, we firmly assert that natural micro-nanoparticles can significantly contribute to the detection and comprehensive study of concealed geothermal resources within the Earth. This novel approach offers a promising method for exploring and gaining a deeper understanding of these hidden geothermal resources.
Results of the Study of Cytogenetic and Molecular Genetic Features in Patients with Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Клеина Е.В. , Волошин С.В. , Семенова Н.Ю. , Линников С.Ю. , Немсцверидзе Н.Н. , Бакай М.П. , Смирнова А.П. , Лазарева Н.М. , Кувшинов А.Ю. , Карягина Е.В. , Успенская О.С. , Зюзгин И.С. , Сидоркевич С.В. , Мартынкевич И.С.
Published: October 2023

Мантийноклеточная лимфома (МКЛ) – агрессивная и тяжело поддающаяся терапии лимфома из зрелых В-лимфоцитов, характеризующаяся транслокацией t(11;14) (q13;q32) и гиперэкспрессией циклина D1. У большинства пациентов заболевание отличается прогрессирующим клиническим течением, требующим незамедлительного начала противоопухолевой терапии, однако наряду с агрессивными вариантами выявляются индолентные МКЛ с длительной выживаемостью и возможностью применения тактики «наблюдай и жди». Такое различие обусловливается наличием вторичных цито- и молекулярно-цитогенетических аберраций, выявляющихся в дополнение к высокоспецифической t(11;14)(q13;q32), которые усиливают онкогенный потенциал циклина D1, вовлекают в лимфомогенез гены, регулирующие клеточный цикл, апоптоз, репарацию поврежденной ДНК, таким образом способствуя увеличению нестабильности генома и дальнейшей злокачественной трансформации опухолевого клона. В настоящее время особое внимание уделяется изучению прогностического влияния изменений кариотипа и аберраций отдельных генов, таких как MYC/8q24 и ТР53/17р13, на выживаемость пациентов с МКЛ. В нашем исследовании мы оценили генетический профиль 117 пациентов с МКЛ для выявления прогностически значимых цитогенетических и молекулярно-генетических маркеров и их взаимосвязи с продолжительностью общей и безрецидивной выживаемости пациентов.

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive and difficult to treat lymphoma of mature B-lymphocytes characterized by t(11;14)(q13;q32) translocation and overexpression of cyclin D1. In most cases, the disease is manifested by progressive use of therapy, requiring the expense of starting anticancer therapy, however, in combination with aggressive variants, indolent MCL with long-term survival and the possibility of "watch and wait" tactics are detected. This difference is due to the presence of secondary cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic aberrations, which are revealed in addition to the highly specific translocation t(11;14)(q13;q32), which enhance the oncogenic potential of cyclin D1, involve genes that regulate the cell cycle, apoptosis, and repair in lymphomagenesis. damaged DNA, thus contributing to an increase in genome instability and further malignant transformation of the tumor clone. Currently, special attention is paid to the study of the prognostic impact of changes in the karyotype and aberrations of individual genes, such as MYC/8q24 and TP53/17p13, on the survival of patients with MCL. In our study, we assessed the genetic profile of 117 patients with MCL to identify prognostic cytogenetic and molecular genetic markers and their relationship with the duration of overall and disease-free survival of patients.
Power and the politics of infrastructure planning: a case study of the proposed construction of a high-speed rail system in Texas.
Authors: Baseham Abdullah
Published: October 2023

The proposed construction of a high-speed rail system in Texas has faced significant political and social challenges, in this paper we examine the power dynamics and political implications of infrastructure planning. The purpose of the article is to provide insights into the decision-making processes, stakeholder roles, and the influence of political and economic factors on infrastructure planning. Drawing on a qualitative research method, this study utilizes secondary data including News articles, media coverage, and Academic literature in which we explore the power dynamics and political landscape surrounding the high-speed rail system in Texas. The findings reveal that private companies, such as the Texas Central Partners, hold significant power and influence in driving the high-speed rail project. The study highlights the complex relationships and power struggles between different stakeholders including private companies, state governments, interest groups, and local communities in the infrastructure planning process. This study provides several recommendations for infrastructure planning practice. Overall, this study contributes to the understanding of power dynamics and political factors in infrastructure planning, specifically focusing on the proposed high-speed rail system in Texas. The insights and recommendations presented have implications for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers involved in infrastructure planning and development. By addressing the complexities of power dynamics, this study aims to inform more equitable and sustainable infrastructure planning practices.
Post-Kemalist Bir Tezin Kritiği: Korporatizm-Kemalizm Tartışması
Authors: ATALAY Lemi
Published: October 2023

Kemalizm, ortaya çıktığı 1930’lardan bu yana sıklıkla farklı ideolojilerle karşılaştırılmış ve bazılarıyla da özdeşleştirilmiştir. Bu özdeşleştirme girişimlerden biri de korporatizme yönelik olmuş ve Kemalizm’in sınıfsız bir toplum kurma hayali, sınıf yerine mesleklere önem vermesi, dayanışmacılığı ön plana çıkarması, devletçi otoriter politikalar gütmesi gibi özellikleri doğrultusunda korporatizme benzeştiği ileri sürülmüştür. Bu çalışmada bu savların ne ölçüde geçerli olduğu sorusundan hareket edilerek, Kemalizm’in korporatizme hangi yönlerden benzediği, hangi yönlerden ayrıldığı gibi hususlar açıklanmış ve Kemalizm’in siyasal ideolojiler içerisindeki konumlandırılması yapılmaya çalışılmıştır. Karşılaştırmalı bir yöntemi benimseyen bu çalışmanın korporatizm kısımlarında, kaynak olarak daha çok konu üzerine yapılan araştırma eserlerinden yararlanılırken, Kemalizm kısımlarında ise parti programları ve Atatürk’ün Medeni Bilgiler kitabı gibi birincil kaynaklardan faydalanılmıştır. Bu bağlamda yapılan incelemeler sonucu, Kemalizm ile korporatizm arasında bir özdeşleştirme kurulmasının yerinde olmadığı ve Kemalizm’in özgün bir ideoloji olduğu tespitinde bulunulmuştur. Ayrıca Kemalizm ile bir benzerlik kurulacaksa bunun solidarizm ya da cumhuriyetçilik düşünceleri ile kurulmasının daha yerinde olacağı savunulmuştur.