bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial–Temporal Evolution and Driving Factors of China’s High-Quality Economic Development
Authors: Yang Tianhao , Gu Guofeng
Published: November 2023

Combining an indicator system developed based on existence–relatedness–growth (ERG) needs and multiple weighting approaches, this paper evaluates the level of high-quality economic development (HQED) in Chinese provinces from the perspective of human well-being from 2007 to 2020. Spatial analysis, Dagum’s Gini coefficient (DGC), and spatial econometric modeling were employed to investigate the spatial–temporal evolutionary characteristics, regional differentiation, and driving factors of HQED in China. The following conclusions are drawn: (1) During the period of 2007–2019, the level of Chinese HQED showed a stable upward trend, and gradually produced the development characteristics of “only super power and multi-great power” and spatial features of “point, line and plane”, with Beijing as the absolute leader, the southeastern coastal region as the advantageous belt, and the relatively advantageous plane in central and western areas with Shaanxi as the core. (2) The degree of spatial differentiation in Chinese provincial HQED narrowed year by year, with intra-regional differentiation organized as follows: eastern > northeastern > western > central; inter-regional differentiation was concentrated in the development gaps across the other three major regions and the eastern areas. (3) Chinese provincial HQED had a significant spatial autocorrelation characteristic, which was further revealed by the spatial Durbin model (SDM) to be a siphon effect at the national and regional levels, i.e., the plundering of the resources and development opportunities of weaker provinces by stronger ones. (4) Driving factors such as economic scale, urbanization level, resource endowment, government size, green technological innovation, industrial structure upgrading, and environmental regulations affected HQED at the national level and in the four major regions to varying degrees. These findings could contribute to policymakers’ efforts to design targeted regional development policies during the transition period of China’s economic development.
Evaluation of Topsoil Carbon Content and Quality in a Peatland and Reforested Soil after 50 Years of Soil Restoration in the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park (Spain)
Authors: Jiménez-González Marco A. , Boubehziz Sana , Álvarez Ana M. , Carral Pilar , Marqués-Pérez María José , Abd-Elmabod Sameh K. , Almendros Gonzalo
Published: November 2023

The increase in atmospheric CO2 levels and the advance of desertification due to soil degradation across our planet is becoming one of humanity’s most serious concerns. The restoration and development of soil management techniques are becoming widespread tools to protect soils. The Sierra de Guadarrama National Park (Spain) is an area that has suffered historically severe deforestation, but it was reforested in an extensive program 50 years ago. In this study, an evaluation of the soils in the restored area was carried out. For this purpose, the chemical composition of the different soil organic matter fractions was characterized using infrared and UV-vis spectroscopies. The results showed a large increase in carbon stocks in the topsoil (0–10 cm) (about 30 Mg·ha−1 more than the area not reforested) after reforestation 50 years ago. There was also an increased level of transformation of organic carbon into resilient humic structures, which are resistant to degradation. Reforestation activities within the National Park have greatly increased the humification rates of organic matter, resulting in the accumulation of high-quality organic carbon.
Effect of Magnetized Water-Based Alkaline Activator on Geopolymer Concrete Mechanical Performance and Durability
Authors: Khattab Sarah A. , Elshikh Mohamed M. Yousry , Elemam Walid E. , Elshami Ahmed A. , Youssf Osama
Published: November 2023

One of the most important challenges in developing the concrete industry is to use sustainable materials that are able to improve concrete properties. Magnetized water (MW) is a type of water that can replace tap water (TW) in conventional concrete and enhance its mechanical properties. However, the performance of MW in geopolymer concrete has not been well investigated up to now. The goal of this study is to measure the effect of using an alkaline activator (AA) made of MW on the mechanical properties and durability of fly ash (FA)-based geopolymer concrete. The AA was a mixture of sodium hydroxide (SH) solution and sodium silicate (SS) solution. Eighteen geopolymer concrete mixes were tested for several fresh, hardened, and durability properties. Of these mixes, nine were prepared with AA made of MW and the other nine were the same but prepared with AA made of TW. The preparation of MW was simply carried out by passing TW across permanent magnets of 1.6 Tesla, and then 1.4 Tesla intensities for 150 cycles. The MW-based AA properties were analyzed and compared to those of the conventional TW-based AA. Several mechanical and durability properties were measured. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) analysis was also conducted on selected mixes. The outcomes of the hardened concrete tests demonstrated that while using MW to prepare AA solution contained SH with a molarity of 16 M, an SS/SH ratio of 2, an AA/C ratio of 0.4, a W/C ratio of 10%, and a curing temperature of 115 °C could display the best outcomes in this study when used in geopolymer concrete. Using MW in a geopolymer concrete AA could increase its slump by up to 100% compared to that made of TW. Using MW in the AA enhanced the compressive strength by up to 193%, 192%, and 124% after 7, 28, and 56 days, respectively. The SEM analysis showed that using MW clearly enhanced the surface morphology of geopolymer concrete. The proposed geopolymer concrete made using the MW-based AA in this study sheds the light on a new class of eco-friendly concrete that could possibly be used in many structural applications.
Monitoring of Phosphorus Compounds in the Influence Zone Affected by Nuclear Power Plant Water Discharge in the Styr River (Western Ukraine): Case Study
Authors: Kuznietsov Pavlo , Biedunkova Olha , Trach Yuliia
Published: November 2023

The main causes of surface water pollution with phosphate ions are various human activities. Monitoring the content of phosphorus compounds in surface waters is important for the management of water bodies. Phosphorus is an essential element for the life of flora and fauna, but in excessive amounts it can have a harmful effect on the environment. The inflow of phosphorus compounds into the Styr River (Western Ukraine) occurs as a result of the discharge of cooling water from the Rivne NPP’s cooling water system. This article has three purposes: (1) The inflow of phosphorus compounds to the Styr River occurs with the discharge of cooling water using 1-hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic acid (HEDP); (2) phosphorus compounds (phosphate ions, HEDP, and total phosphorus in surface waters of the Styr River) are monitored and analyzed, and the analysis of the quality of river water is carried out in accordance with environmental standards for the content of phosphorus compounds in the zone of influence of the Rivne NPP; (3) in terms of phosphorus content, the quality of the water of the Styr River, after the discharge of the Rivne NPP’s cooling water, is characterized as “satisfactory” and belongs to Class III. A seasonal trend of changes in the content of phosphate ions and total phosphorus was found, and the concentration of HEDP in the water of the Styr River depends on the technological dosage mode during the corrective treatment of the Rivne NPP.
Pathways for Integrating the Concept of Carbon Neutrality into the Talent Cultivation Process: A Case Study of Animal Production Programs in Chinese Agricultural Colleges and Universities
Authors: Shi Jun , Cao Xiang , Chen Zhi
Published: November 2023

The realization of carbon peak and carbon neutrality requires a comprehensive and profound transformation of economic and social systems. It is imperative not only for addressing climate change but also for the transformation and upgrading of various industries. This shift entails transitioning from high energy consumption and pollution to focusing on high-quality development, thereby facilitating the transition to a green and low-carbon economy and ultimately realizing sustainable economic and social progress. As modern agriculture evolves and agricultural modernization advances, there is substantial potential and demand for emission reduction in agricultural sectors and rural areas. Agricultural institutions of tertiary education undertake the crucial responsibility of cultivating talents capable of contributing to carbon neutrality efforts. Consequently, it is essential to integrate the concept of carbon neutrality into undergraduate education to meet the growing need for cultivating a workforce capable of achieving national carbon neutrality goals. In this study, a questionnaire is used to analyze the views and current situation of students majoring in animal production regarding the concept of carbon neutrality, and to explore how to conceptualize a knowledge system of carbon neutrality applicable to animal production programs in agricultural institutions.
Sustainable CO2 Fixation onto Bio-Based Aromatics
Authors: Kojčinović Aleksa , Likozar Blaž , Grilc Miha
Published: November 2023

Carboxylation reactions using carbon dioxide (CO2) as a reactant to produce new C-C bonds represent one of the most promising routes in carbon capture and utilization practices, which yield higher-atom and energy-efficient products. Kolbe–Schmitt-type reactions represent the carboxylation of aromatic compounds to their carboxylic acid derivatives. This study was the first and only to systematically investigate, thoroughly explain preparation procedures, and minutely describe the analytical methods of Kolbe–Schmitt and Marasse carboxylation of phenol. Most importantly, this study provides guidelines for the utilization of state-of-the-art technology in this century-old yet not sufficiently described reaction system. Kolbe–Schmitt carboxylation of phenol was found to be possible using sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), and sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), while the Marasse method was active only with potassium carbonate (K2CO3) as a reactant. The formation of metal phenoxide is the rate-determining step, which, however, could be more efficiently prepared under reflux. A new, simple, and repeatable HPLC method was described to identify and quantify all possible products of mono- and dicarboxylated phenols. It was found that all procedures result in the highest selectivity for salicylic acid (SA), followed by minor amounts of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (4HBA) and 4-hydroxyisophthalic acid (4HiPh).
Development of Family Farms in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Li Zhanjiang , Cong Yanlin
Published: November 2023

As one of the new agricultural business subjects, family farms are the main force behind the development of agriculture and the leader of agricultural modernization in China. At present, the development of family farms in Inner Mongolia is on the rise, but there are still many problems, so it is crucial to evaluate the development of family farms to find out the problems for targeted development. In this paper, first, after double-screening objective data of family farm development evaluation indexes through the combination of the gray correlation degree and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, we constructed an index system for evaluating family farm development including 19 indexes, such as whether to register a business license. Second, based on the index system constructed in the previous step, the index weight vector was measured using the AHP–entropy weight method, which reflects the cognitive experience of experts, while taking into account the objective laws of data. Next, based on the index weight, the scores of 755 family farms were calculated to measure the level of development of family farms, and the ratings were divided into three categories based on the scores using K-mean cluster analysis. The study found that: (1) The weight of the indicator on the rank of the new professional farmer was 0.102, ranking first; the weight of the indicator on whether the children of the person in charge have the intention to engage in farming and animal husbandry was 0.091, ranking second; and the weight of the indicator on the number of basic production facilities and necessary machinery and equipment was 0.088, ranking third. (2) The highest score of 755 family farms in Inner Mongolia was only 50.161 points, and the overall development of family farms was at an average level. Therefore, based on the results of the study, five paths were proposed to enhance the development of family farms.
Life Cycle-Based Carbon Emission Reduction Benefit Assessment of Centralized Photovoltaic Power Plants in China
Authors: Deng Yanhua , Wu Jiji , Yang Qian , Chen Weizhen , Li Penghan , Huang Chenhao , Deng Jinsong , Ji Biyong , Xie Lijian
Published: November 2023

Developing clean energy is the key to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and addressing global climate change. Photovoltaic energy systems are considered to be clean and sustainable energy resources due to their wide distribution and easy deployment. However, the environment can still be impacted during the processes from the production to recycling of such systems. Therefore, this study was conducted based on the whole life-cycle analysis to establish a mathematical model for carbon emissions during the processes of production, transportation, and waste disposal of photovoltaic power systems. The main conclusions are as follows. (1) The carbon emissions of a centralized photovoltaic power station with a unit installed capacity of 1 kWp during its entire life cycle would be 2094.40 kg, while the carbon recycling period would last 1.89 years, which would be shorter than the expected life cycle of a photovoltaic system of 25 years, indicating significant environmental benefits. (2) The calculated results from 2022 showed that the newly constructed centralized photovoltaic power stations in China could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 31,524.26 tons during their life cycles, and their carbon emissions from 1 kWh are approx. 1/10 of those of thermal power generation, which is significantly lower than that of thermal power generation. (3) From the perspective of the soil carbon sequestration capacity and opportunity cost, the economic cost of carbon emissions from the new centralized photovoltaic power stations in China in 2022 was 1.083 billion yuan. (4) The analysis of the relationship using the Granger causality test revealed that, with a lag of one period and a significance level of 5%, the carbon emissions from the new centralized PV power stations from 2013–2022 were the Granger cause of the added value from the secondary industry in China, while the added value from the secondary industry was not the Granger cause of the carbon emissions from the new PV power stations. The findings of the performed study could increase the utilization rate of photovoltaic energy by ensuring it is a secure sustainable low-carbon emission resource, while also reducing the impact of climate change on the planet and promoting individual well-being and social development.
Potential Risk Identification of Agricultural Nonpoint Source Pollution: A Case Study of Yichang City, Hubei Province
Authors: Yang Jinfeng , Wang Xuelei , Li Xinrong , Tian Zhuang , Zou Guoyuan , Du Lianfeng , Guo Xuan
Published: November 2023

Potential risk identification of agricultural nonpoint source pollution (ANPSP) is essential for pollution control and sustainable agriculture. Herein, we propose a novel method for potential risk identification of ANPSP via a comprehensive analysis of risk sources and sink factors. A potential risk assessment index system (PRAIS) was established. The proposed method was used to systematically evaluate the potential risk level of ANPSP of Yichang City, Hubei Province. The potential risk of ANPSP in Yichang City was 18.86%. High-risk areas account for 4.95% and have characteristics such as high nitrogen and phosphorus application rates, large soil erosion factors, and low vegetation coverage. Compared with the identification results of the Diffuse Pollution estimation with the Remote Sensing (DPeRS) model, the area difference of the same risk level calculated by the PRAIS was reduced by 33.9% on average. This indicates that PRAIS has the same level of accuracy as the DPeRS model in identifying potential risks of ANPSP. Thus, a rapid and efficient identification system of potential risks of regional ANPSP was achieved.
Exploring the Influence of the Information and Communication Technology Dimensions on the Sustainability of Competitiveness in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in the Hail Region
Authors: Kahouli Bassem , Nafla Amine , Chaaben Nahla , Elleuch Zied
Published: November 2023

The main purpose of this research paper is to investigate the role of information and communication technology (ICT) in providing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with a competitive advantage. To do this, we propose five dimensions to detect ICT (human resources, equipment and devices, databases, software, and networks) and four dimensions (service quality, market control, creativity and development, and operational efficiency) to decide competitive advantage. To achieve this paper’s purposes, a questionnaire was developed to collect data from respondents to a sample of 128 subjects by using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for the survey data analysis. Several methods have been used in the statistical analysis of the data, including descriptive statistics tests, a normal distribution test (one-sample Kolmogorov–Smirnov test), simple linear regression coefficient (simple regression), variance analysis (one-way ANOVA), and a T-test for independent samples. This study reports a series of findings, underlined by the significant role of ICT with its various dimensions and the competitive advantage of SMEs. This study concludes with several suggestions including that SMEs must increase their investments in ICT components and take more care of creativity and development for the preemption to create new services.
The Mediating Role Played by Perceived Motor Competence in the Relationship between Motor Competence and Physical Activity in Spanish Adolescents
Authors: Royo Emilio , Latorre-Peña Julio , Denoni Magali , Orejudo Santos
Published: November 2023

The promotion of regular physical activity (PA) is becoming one of the main tools applied in developed countries to address health and obesity problems, particularly in view of the proven benefits of PA on a physical, psychological, and social level. Indeed, childhood and adolescence are crucial periods for an active lifestyle can be established, with the prospect of prolonging it in adulthood. The conceptual model propounded by Stodden provides a theoretical underpinning for the relationship between motor competence (MC) and PA. This study’s objective was to explore the predictive value of motor competence (MC) regarding physical activity (PA), along with the mediating role played by self-perceived motor competence (SPMC) and comparatively perceived motor competence (CPMC), with the purpose of confirming the theoretical model propounded by Stodden, as well as the relationships among variables in our own conceptual model. To this end, we tested a random sample of 925 adolescents (53.6% males; 46.3% females, age 13.75 years, SD = 1.28). Participants completed the Multidimensional Sportcomp Battery to evaluate MC and the Achievement Motivation in Physical Education test (AMPET4) to evaluate their perception of their competence; moreover, to evaluate PA, we used three indicators from the WHO Health Behaviour in Schoolchildren survey in the Spanish version. Our final theoretical model explains 19.9% of the variance of sport practice in boys and 24.2% in girls; moreover, it ascribes an important role to self-perceived motor competence (SPMC) and to comparatively perceived motor competence (CPMC) as mediating variables in the relationship between MC and PA in both sexes. Notably, we found a direct relationship between motor coordination/control tests and PA. Overall, this study underscores the degree to which adolescents’ perceived motor competence affects their actual motor competence.
Effective Solutions to Ecological and Water Environment Problems in the Sanjiang Plain: Utilization of Farmland Drainage Resources
Authors: Sang Zijie , Zhang Ge , Wang Haiqing , Zhang Wangyang , Chen Yuxiu , Han Mingyang , Yang Ke
Published: November 2023

The Sanjiang Plain stands as a pivotal grain-producing region in China. Faced with population growth and the imperative of ensuring food security, the rapid expansion of agricultural land in the Sanjiang Plain has led to escalating ecological and water-environmental challenges, hindering the sustainable development of regional agriculture. This research aims to explore and propose practical measures for utilizing agricultural drainage resources to address the ecological and water-environmental issues resulting from agricultural expansion in the Sanjiang Plain, striving to achieve harmonious and sustainable economic and environmental growth. The discussion revolves around the potential alleviation of water quality, water quantity, and ecological health issues in the Sanjiang Plain through the proposed approach. Considering regional characteristics, the focus is on potential environmental drawbacks resulting from the improper application of the method. Building on these findings, effective strategies are presented to enhance the systematic operation of agricultural drainage resource utilization in the region. In conclusion, addressing ecological and water-environmental challenges stemming from local agricultural development is imperative for the Sanjiang Plain to realize sustainable development for the economy and the environment.
Economic Viability Assessment of Neighbourhood versus Residential Batteries: Insights from an Australian Case Study
Authors: Mohseni Soheil , Rutovitz Jay , Smith Heather , Dwyer Scott , Tahir Farzan
Published: November 2023

Amidst the evolving paradigms of the contemporary energy landscape, marked by the imperative of sustainability and efficiency, the integration of energy storage has emerged as a transformative strategy that seeks to recalibrate the dynamics of electricity distribution and consumption. However, there remains a pressing need to determine the most economically viable approach for deploying energy storage solutions in residential low-voltage (LV) feeders, especially in rural areas. In this context, this paper presents the results of an economic evaluation of energy storage solutions for a residential LV feeder in a rural town in Australia. Specifically, the study compares the financial viability of a front-of-the-meter (FTM) battery installed on the feeder with that of a fleet of behind-the-meter (BTM) batteries. The FTM battery, with a size of 100 kW/200 kWh, is assumed to be operated by the retailer but owned by the community, with any profits assigned to the community. In this scenario, we studied a battery operating under standard network tariffs and three different trial tariffs that distribution network service providers currently offer in Australia. On the other hand, the fleet of BTM batteries (3 kW, 3.3 kWh) are individually owned by households with solar installations, and their cumulative capacity matches that of the FTM battery. The comparison is based on key economic parameters, including network charges, retail margins, frequency control ancillary service (FCAS) revenues, wholesale energy costs, technology costs associated with community batteries, and net profit or loss for the community, as well as considerations of utility grid arbitrage and solar photovoltaic (PV) self-consumption. The study also assumes different grant levels to assess the impact of subsidies on the economic feasibility for both battery configurations. The findings indicate that, while both require some form of subsidy for profitability, the BTM batteries outperform the FTM battery in terms of economic viability and so would require lower grant support. The FTM battery case finds a need for grants ranging from 75% to 95% to break even, while the BTM fleet requires approximately 50% in grants to achieve a similar outcome. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of grant support in making energy storage solutions economically feasible. In particular, it highlights how the less mature segment of FTM batteries will need higher support initially if it is to compete with BTM. The outcomes of this study inform decision-making processes for implementing energy storage solutions in similar communities, fostering sustainable and cost-effective energy systems.
Analysis of the Social and Economic Factors Influencing PM2.5 Emissions at the City Level in China
Authors: Huang Han , Jiang Ping , Chen Yuanxiang
Published: November 2023

Respirable suspended particles (PM2.5) are one of the key components of haze, which not only causes a variety of lung, intestinal, and vascular diseases, but also affects cognitive levels. China is facing the challenge of severe PM2.5 concentrations, especially in urban areas with a high population density. Understanding the key factors that influence PM2.5 concentrations is fundamental for the adoption of targeted measures. Therefore, this study used the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) method to identify the key factors influencing PM2.5 concentrations in 236 cities in northeastern, western, central, and eastern China. The findings were as follows. The emission intensity (EI) played an important suppressing role on PM2.5 concentrations in all cities from 2011–2020. The energy intensity (EnI) inhibited PM2.5 concentrations in 157 cities; the economic output (EO) stimulated PM2.5 concentrations in some less economically developed regions; and population (P) spurred PM2.5 concentrations in135 cities, mainly concentrated in developed eastern cities. This study provides a whole picture of the key factors influencing PM2.5 concentrations in Chinese cities, and the findings can act as the scientific basis and guidance for Chinese city authorities in formulating policies toward PM2.5 concentration reduction.
Laboratory Investigation and Machine Learning Modeling of Road Pavement Asphalt Mixtures Prepared with Construction and Demolition Waste and RAP
Authors: Rondinella Fabio , Oreto Cristina , Abbondati Francesco , Baldo Nicola
Published: November 2023

Due to the decreasing availability of virgin materials coupled with an increased awareness of environmental sustainability issues, many researchers have focused their efforts on investigating innovative technological solutions in the civil engineering domain. This paper aims to evaluate the suitability of construction and demolition waste (C and DW) and reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) reused within asphalt mixtures (AMs) prepared for the binder layer of road pavements. Both hot and cold mixing methodologies were investigated. The technical assessment was based on the volumetric and mechanical suitability, according to saturated surface dry voids (SSDV) and indirect tensile strength (ITS) tests carried out at 10 °C, respectively. Laboratory findings showed that all the hot AMs matched the desired target SSDV at the design gyrations number at different optimum bitumen content levels, alternatively showing a non-significant variation or a significant increase in ITS compared to conventional hot mix asphalt. Conversely, the cold AMs with cement and emulsion bitumen showed a greater volume of voids and moisture sensitivity, and lower temperature susceptibility compared to hot AMs, reaching, on average, 11% lower ITS when using coarse C and DW aggregates and 43% lower ITS when using filler from C and DW. These volumetric and mechanical properties were modeled by means of support vector machines and categorical boosting (CatBoost) machine learning algorithms. The results proved to be satisfactory, with CatBoost determination coefficients R2 referring to SSDV and ITS equal to 0.8678 and 0.9916, respectively. This allowed for the mechanical performance of these sustainable mixtures to be predicted with high accuracy and implemented within conventional mix design procedures.
Influence of Activity-Travel Participation, Travel Mode Choice, and Multitasking Activities on Subjective Well-Being Using R
Authors: Ali Mujahid , Macioszek Elżbieta , Endrayana Dharmowijoyo Dimas Bayu
Published: November 2023

Multitasking activities (MTA) are typically thought to enhance general subjective well-being (SWB). However, performing MTA while operating a private vehicle is frequently challenging. Public transportation (PT) can provide an additional option to engage in more pleasurable activities while traveling. Several studies have been conducted on the engagement of different activities while using different transport modes and its influence on physical, social, and mental health. Moreover, numerous studies have been carried out on motorized transport and MTA that resulted in accidents, fatalities, injuries, and even disasters. In addition, several experts studied the influence of health parameters on daily activities. There have, however, only been a few studies on MTA while on PT and its influence on SWB. Therefore, the current study aims to investigate the travel mode choice, the performance of onboard MTA, and its influence on overall SWB. Using random sampling techniques, data on 732 individuals and 191 households—representing 0.029% of the overall population of Bandung, Indonesia—were gathered. Two different models were developed between independent, intermediate, and dependent variables. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for descriptive statistics, whereas R software was used for the multilevel linear regression analysis. The model estimation results show that MTA mediates the relationship among socio-demographic and economic variables, built environment, trip and travel parameters, and SWB. A unit increase in PT lines can provide a 1.5% greater opportunity to participate in more onboard MTA; however, a unit increase in MTA can enhance SWB by 5.1% where both the models show satisfactory coefficient of determination (R2). A unit increase in motorized transport caused a 12.9% negative association with MTA and 10.9% with SWB. A unit increase in NMT and PT are 21.7% and 10.2% positively associated with MTA and 19.2% and 13.1% positively associated with SWB. The current study helps policymakers to develop a policy based on PT which allows the individuals to engage in more MTA that enhance SWB and target sustainable transportation system.
A Study on the Hydrothermal Synthesis of Calcium Silicate Products by Calcination of Full-Component Waste Concrete
Authors: Mao Famao , Ai Hongmei
Published: November 2023

In order to achieve the reuse of waste concrete, the hydrothermal synthesis of low-temperature calcined calcium silica products with an ideal admixture of fly ash and waste concrete as raw materials was investigated and various properties were studied. The findings suggest that the optimal method involves adding 10% fly ash to waste concrete to lower the temperature at which calcium carbonate decomposes. The compressive strength of the specimens generally increases with increasing calcium–silicon ratio and pressure can reach up to 43.98 MPa. Nevertheless, the duration of holding requires adjustment in line with autoclave pressure: the higher the pressure, the shorter the holding time, and vice versa for lower pressure. Most of the specimens are water-resistant with softening coefficients above 0.6 and up to 0.91. The macroscopic strength is determined by the way in which the microstructure of the hydration products forms under different conditions. The optimum design for the experimental conditions should be that the pressure, holding time and calcium–silica ratio should be 1.0 MPa, 9 h and 1.0, respectively. Due to their potential for resource conservation and environmental improvement, autoclaved silicate materials manufactured from waste concrete may be a viable alternative as a green construction material.
Research on Maize Acreage Extraction and Growth Monitoring Based on a Machine Learning Algorithm and Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Luan Wenjie , Shen Xiaojing , Fu Yinghao , Li Wangcheng , Liu Qiaoling , Wang Tuo , Ma Dongxiang
Published: November 2023

Getting accurate and up-to-date information on the cultivated land area and spatial arrangement of maize, an important staple crop in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, is very important for planning agricultural development in the region and judging crop yields. This work proposes a machine-learning methodology to extract corn from medium-resolution photos obtained from the Sentinel-2 satellite. The Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud platform is utilized to facilitate the process. The identification of maize cultivation regions in Huinong District in the year 2021 was performed through the utilization of support vector machine (SVM) and random forest (RF) classification techniques. After obtaining the results, they were compared to see if using the random forest classification method to find planting areas for maize was possible and useful. Subsequently, the regions where maize was cultivated were combined with image data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), which has a high temporal resolution. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) contemporaneous difference method, which gives regular updates, was then used to track the growth of maize during its whole growth phase. The study’s results show that using the GEE cloud platform made it easier to quickly map out data about where to plant maize in Huinong District. Furthermore, the implementation of the random forest method resulted in enhanced accuracy in extracting maize planting areas. The confusion matrix’s evaluation of the classification performance produced an average overall accuracy of 98.9% and an average Kappa coefficient of 0.966. In comparison to the statistics yearbook of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the method employed in this study consistently yielded maize-planted area estimates in Huinong District with relative errors below 4% throughout the period spanning 2017 to 2021. The average relative error was found to be 2.04%. By combining MODIS image data with the NDVI difference model in the year 2021, the high-frequency monitoring of maize growth in Huinong District was successful. The growth of maize in Huinong District in 2021 exhibited comparable or improved performance in the seedling stage, nodulation stage, and the early stage of staminate pulling and spitting, possibly attributed to the impact of climate and other relevant elements. After that, the growth slowed down in August, and the percentage of regions with slower growth rates than in previous years gradually increased. However, overall, the growth of maize in Huinong District during the year 2021 showed improvement relative to the preceding years. The present study introduces a novel approach that demonstrates the capability to accurately extract corn crops in the Huinong District while simultaneously monitoring their growth at a high frequency.
Public Perception of Green Supply Chains and Its Impact on Customer Behavior: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Charalampidis Ioannis , Xanthopoulos Alexandros , Diamantidis Anastasios , Chatzoglou Prodromos
Published: November 2023

The public is increasingly becoming aware of environmental challenges and adjusting its purchasing behavior in pursuit of sustainable products and services. To compete in the global scene, firms need to transform their supply chains to adhere to eco-friendly practices. This study focuses on the electronics market, which is distinctively interesting due to its small product life cycles, high-end capabilities, and fierce competition. A novel research model comprising nine hypotheses that attempt to investigate and assess the factors influencing customers’ perceptions and purchasing preferences in relation to green supply chains in the electronics industry was developed. We conducted field research to test the model empirically using survey data from 147 individuals with different backgrounds. The dataset was verified and validated by means of explanatory factor analysis. Structural equation modeling analysis was performed that revealed the linkage between demographics (age), willingness to pay, purchasing intention, and green consumerism. Other research findings included the intricate interconnections between environmental concern, knowledge, attitude, customers’ perceptions/effectiveness, and behavior. This research gives insights into green consumerism in the electronics sector, and its managerial implications can guide sustainable supply chain practices and customer-centric marketing approaches.
Multicomponent Adsorption of Pollutants from Wastewater Using Low-Cost Eco-Friendly Iron-Modified Rice Husk Biochar in the Era of Green Chemistry
Authors: Tichem Tibamba Matthew , Wang Youbao , Gameli Raphael B. H. , Mbage Bawa , Li Bingbing
Published: November 2023

As pollution escalates, water purification is becoming crucial, with adsorption emerging as an efficient technique. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of iron-modified rice husk biochar as an adsorbent for water pollutants. The biochar was produced at a pyrolysis temperature of 500 °C and modified by FeSO4·7H2O. Diverse adsorbent dosages were introduced to simulated wastewater containing aldrin, mercury (Hg2+), lead (Pb2+), and cadmium (Cd2+). The solution was agitated for 60 min, then filtered, and the samples were sent for analysis. The results were promising; aldrin had a removal efficiency of 100%. The removal efficiency for Hg2+ ranged from 99.80% to 99.96%, for Pb2+ from 88.90% to 99.56%, and for Cd2+ from 78.90% to 99.98%. The Freundlich adsorption isotherm best described the mono- and quaternary component systems, while the Langmuir isotherm was the best fit for the binary system. Therefore, iron-modified rice husk biochar shows potential as a sustainable and efficient adsorbent for wastewater treatment.
Incorporating Elicited Preferences for Equality into Electricity System Planning Modeling
Authors: Van-Hein Sackey Charles , Nock Destenie , Cao Christine , Armanios Daniel , Davis Alex
Published: November 2023

Sustainable Development Goal 7 of the United Nations is to achieve universal access to clean, modern and affordable electricity by 2030. However, 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) currently do not have access to electricity. As a result of this energy inequality, countries in SSA need to plan electricity systems that provide access in an equitable manner. The research question we explore in this paper is how integrating elicited preferences for equality into an electricity system planning model affects investment decisions regarding technology deployment. Our novel contribution is proposing a framework in the form of a discrete choice experiment and a statistical estimation model to determine decision makers’ preferences for equality. In our study, we find that higher preferences for equality result in an increased deployment of solar diesel mini-grids. These hybrid mini-grids, in turn, drive the carbon emissions intensity of the electricity system fourfold. As such, there is a need for stakeholders in Africa’s energy sector to consider the potential divergence between a carbon-minimizing electrification strategy and equitable electrification.
Moment of Inertia and Dynamical Symmetry
Authors: Cseh József , Riczu Gábor
Published: November 2023

We investigate how the moment of inertia of the atomic nucleus can be calculated in terms of the invariant operator of its SU(3) symmetry. This question is important for model Hamiltonians containing the moment of inertia explicitly, e.g., those with multichannel dynamical symmetry, which describes many different bands in a unified way.
Analytic Invariants of Semidirect Products of Symmetric Groups on Banach Spaces
Authors: Baziv Nataliia , Zagorodnyuk Andriy
Published: November 2023

We consider algebras of polynomials and analytic functions that are invariant with respect to semidirect products of groups of bounded operators on Banach spaces with symmetric bases. In particular, we consider algebras of so-called block-symmetric and double-symmetric analytic functions on Banach spaces ℓp(Cn) and the homomorphisms of these algebras. In addition, we describe an algebraic basis in the algebra of double-symmetric polynomials and discuss a structure of the spectrum of the algebra of double-symmetric analytic functions on ℓp(Cn).
Study of He–Mckellar–Wilkens Effect in Noncommutative Space
Authors: Jing Jian , Wang Qing , Yuan Zi-Gang , Dong Shi-Hai
Published: November 2023

The He–McKellar–Wilkens (HMW) effect in noncommutative space has been explored through two distinct methodologies. One approach treats the neutral particle, which harbors a permanent electric dipole moment, as an unstructured entity, while the other approach considers the neutral particle as a composite system consisting of a pair of oppositely charged particles. To preserve gauge symmetry, we apply the Seiberg–Witten map. Surprisingly, both of these approaches converge on the same result. They independently confirm that, up to the first order of the noncommutative parameter (NCP), no corrections are observed in the phase of the HMW effect. Remarkably, these two approaches, although founded on fundamentally different mechanisms, yield identical conclusions.
Harnessing Attenuation-Related Mutations of Viral Genomes: Development of a Serological Assay to Differentiate between Capripoxvirus-Infected and -Vaccinated Animals
Authors: Berguido Francisco J. , Chibssa Tesfaye Rufael , Loitsch Angelika , Liu Yang , Krstevski Kiril , Djadjovski Igor , Tuppurainen Eeva , Petrović Tamaš , Vidanović Dejan , Caufour Philippe , Settypalli Tirumala Bharani K. , Grünwald-Gruber Clemens , Grabherr Reingard , Diallo Adama , Cattoli Giovanni , Lamien Charles Euloge
Published: November 2023

Sheeppox, goatpox, and lumpy skin disease caused by the sheeppox virus (SPPV), goatpox virus (GTPV), and lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), respectively, are diseases that affect millions of ruminants and many low-income households in endemic countries, leading to great economic losses for the ruminant industry. The three viruses are members of the Capripoxvirus genus of the Poxviridae family. Live attenuated vaccines remain the only efficient means for controlling capripox diseases. However, serological tools have not been available to differentiate infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA), though crucial for proper disease surveillance, control, and eradication efforts. We analysed the sequences of variola virus B22R homologue gene for SPPV, GTPV, and LSDV and observed significant differences between field and vaccine strains in all three capripoxvirus species, resulting in the truncation and absence of the B22R protein in major vaccines within each of the viral species. We selected and expressed a protein fragment present in wildtype viruses but absent in selected vaccine strains of all three species, taking advantage of these alterations in the B22R gene. An indirect ELISA (iELISA) developed using this protein fragment was evaluated on well-characterized sera from vaccinated, naturally and experimentally infected, and negative cattle and sheep. The developed wildtype-specific capripox DIVA iELISA showed >99% sensitivity and specificity for serum collected from animals infected with the wildtype virus. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first wildtype-specific, DIVA-capable iELISA for poxvirus diseases exploiting changes in nucleotide sequence alterations in vaccine strains.
Emerging Prognostic and Predictive Significance of Stress Keratin 17 in HPV-Associated and Non HPV-Associated Human Cancers: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lozar Taja , Wang Wei , Gavrielatou Niki , Christensen Leslie , Lambert Paul F. , Harari Paul M. , Rimm David L. , Burtness Barbara , Grasic Kuhar Cvetka , Carchman Evie H.
Published: November 2023

A growing body of literature suggests that the expression of cytokeratin 17 (K17) correlates with inferior clinical outcomes across various cancer types. In this scoping review, we aimed to review and map the available clinical evidence of the prognostic and predictive value of K17 in human cancers. PubMed, Web of Science, Embase (via Scopus), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar were searched for studies of K17 expression in human cancers. Eligible studies were peer-reviewed, published in English, presented original data, and directly evaluated the association between K17 and clinical outcomes in human cancers. Of the 1705 studies identified in our search, 58 studies met criteria for inclusion. Studies assessed the prognostic significance (n = 54), predictive significance (n = 2), or both the prognostic and predictive significance (n = 2). Altogether, 11 studies (19.0%) investigated the clinical relevance of K17 in cancers with a known etiologic association to HPV; of those, 8 (13.8%) were focused on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and 3 (5.1%) were focused on cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). To date, HNSCC, as well as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and pancreatic cancer, were the most frequently studied cancer types. K17 had prognostic significance in 16/17 investigated cancer types and 43/56 studies. Our analysis suggests that K17 is a negative prognostic factor in the majority of studied cancer types, including HPV-associated types such as HNSCC and cervical cancer (13/17), and a positive prognostic factor in 2/17 studied cancer types (urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract and breast cancer). In three out of four predictive studies, K17 was a negative predictive factor for chemotherapy and immune checkpoint blockade therapy response.
Herpes Virus Infection in Lung Transplantation: Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention Strategies
Authors: Patrucco Filippo , Curtoni Antonio , Sidoti Francesca , Zanotto Elisa , Bondi Alessandro , Albera Carlo , Boffini Massimo , Cavallo Rossana , Costa Cristina , Solidoro Paolo
Published: November 2023

Lung transplantation is an ultimate treatment option for some end-stage lung diseases; due to the intense immunosuppression needed to reduce the risk of developing acute and chronic allograft failure, infectious complications are highly incident. Viral infections represent nearly 30% of all infectious complications, with herpes viruses playing an important role in the development of acute and chronic diseases. Among them, cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, being associated with an increased risk of chronic lung allograft failure. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is associated with transformation of infected B cells with the development of post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLDs). Similarly, herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella zoster virus and human herpesviruses 6 and 7 can also be responsible for acute manifestations in lung transplant patients. During these last years, new, highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tests have been developed, and preventive and prophylactic strategies have been studied aiming to reduce and prevent the incidence of these viral infections. In this narrative review, we explore epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment options for more frequent herpes virus infections in lung transplant patients.