bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Variation and Heritability for Hydrogen Cyanide in Fresh Cassava Roots: Implications for Low-Cyanide Cassava Breeding
Authors: Kanaabi Michael , Settumba Mukasa B. , Nuwamanya Ephraim , Muhumuza Nicholas , Iragaba Paula , Ozimati Alfred , Namakula Fatumah B. , Kayondo Ismail S. , Baguma Julius K. , Nanyonjo Ann Ritah , Esuma Williams , Kawuki Robert S.
Published: April 2024

Breeding for low-hydrogen-cyanide (HCN) varieties is a major objective of programs targeting boiled cassava food products. To enhance the breeding of low-HCN varieties, knowledge of genetic variation and trait heritability is essential. In this study, 64 cassava clones were established across four locations and evaluated for HCN using three HCN assessment methods: one with a 1 to 9 scale, on with a 0 ppm to 800 ppm scale, and a quantitative assay based on spectrophotometer readings (HCN_Spec). Data were also collected on the weather variables precipitation, relative humidity, and temperature. Highly significant differences were observed among clones (p < 0.001) and locations (p < 0.001). There was also significant clone–environment interactions, varying from p < 0.05 to p < 0.001. Locations Arua and Serere showed higher HCN scores among clones and were associated with significantly higher (p < 0.001) mean daily temperatures (K) and lower relative humidity values (%) across 12 h and 18 h intervals. Within locations, HCN broad sense heritability estimates ranged from 0.22 to 0.64, while combined location heritability estimates ranged from 0.14 to 0.32. Relationships between the methods were positive and strong (r = 0.75–0.92). The 1 to 9 scale is more accurate and more reproducible than either the 0 to 800 ppm scale or spectrophotometric methods. It is expected that the information herein will accelerate efforts towards breeding for low-HCN cassava varieties.
Characterizing Surface Morphological and Chemical Properties of Commonly Used Orthopedic Implant Materials and Determining Their Clinical Significance
Authors: Jillek Bertalan , Szabó Péter , Kopniczky Judit , Krafcsik Olga , Szabó István , Patczai Balázs , Turzó Kinga
Published: April 2024

The goal of the study was to compare the surface characteristics of typical implant materials used in orthopedic surgery and traumatology, as these determine their successful biointegration. The morphological and chemical structure of Vortex plate anodized titanium from commercially pure (CP) Grade 2 Titanium (Ti2) is generally used in the following; non-cemented total hip replacement (THR) stem and cup Ti alloy (Ti6Al4V) with titanium plasma spray (TPS) coating; cemented THR stem Stainless steel (SS); total knee replacement (TKR) femoral component CoCrMo alloy (CoCr); cemented acetabular component from highly cross-linked ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (HXL); and cementless acetabular liner from ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) (Sanatmetal, Ltd., Eger, Hungary) discs, all of which were examined. Visualization and elemental analysis were carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Surface roughness was determined by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and profilometry. TPS Ti presented the highest Ra value (25 ± 2 μm), followed by CoCr (535 ± 19 nm), Ti2 (227 ± 15 nm) and SS (170 ± 11 nm). The roughness measured in the HXL and UHMWPE surfaces was in the same range, 147 ± 13 nm and 144 ± 15 nm, respectively. EDS confirmed typical elements regarding the investigated prosthesis materials. XPS results supported the EDS results and revealed a high % of Ti4+ on Ti2 and TPS surfaces. The results indicate that the surfaces of prosthesis materials have significantly different features, and a detailed characterization is needed to successfully apply them in orthopedic surgery and traumatology.
Method Development for the Prediction of Melt Quality in the Extrusion Process
Authors: Trienens Dorte , Schöppner Volker , Krause Peter , Bäck Thomas , Tsi-Nda Lontsi Seraphin , Budde Finn
Published: April 2024

Simulation models are used to design extruders in the polymer processing industry. This eliminates the need for prototypes and reduces development time for extruders and, in particular, extrusion screws. These programs simulate, among other process parameters, the temperature and pressure curves in the extruder. At present, it is not possible to predict the resulting melt quality from these results. This paper presents a simulation model for predicting the melt quality in the extrusion process. Previous work has shown correlations between material and thermal homogeneity and the screw performance index. As a result, the screw performance index can be used as a target value for the model to be developed. The results of the simulations were used as input variables, and with the help of artificial intelligence—more precisely, machine learning—a linear regression model was built. Finally, the correlation between the process parameters and the melt quality was determined, and the quality of the model was evaluated.
Intrinsically Microporous Polyimides Derived from 2,2′-Dibromo-4,4′,5,5′-bipohenyltetracarboxylic Dianhydride for Gas Separation Membranes
Authors: Li Yongle , Lu Yao , Tian Chun , Wang Zhen , Yan Jingling
Published: April 2024

This work aims to expand the structure–property relationships of bromo-containing polyimides and the influence of bromine atoms on the gas separation properties of such materials. A series of intrinsically microporous polyimides were synthesized from 2,2′-dibromo-4,4′,5,5′-bipohenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (Br-BPDA) and five bulky diamines, (7,7′-(mesitylmethylene)bis(8-methyldibenzo[b,e][1,4]dioxin-2-amine) (MMBMA), 7,7′-(Mesitylmethylene)bis(1,8-dimethyldibenzo[b,e][1,4] dioxin-2-amine) (MMBDA), 4,10-dimethyl-6H,12H-5,11-methanodibenzo[b,f][1,5]diazocine-2,8-diamine (TBDA1), 4,10-dimethyl-6H,12H-5,11-methanodibenzo[b,f][1,5]diazocine-3,9-diamine (TBDA2), and (9R,10R)-9,10-dihydro-9,10-[1,2]benzenoanthracene-2,6-diamine (DAT). The Br-BPDA-derived polyimides exhibited excellent solubility, high thermal stability, and good mechanical properties, with their tensile strength and modulus being 59.2–109.3 MPa and 1.8–2.2 GPa, respectively. The fractional free volumes (FFVs) and surface areas (SBET) of the Br-BPDA-derived polyimides were in the range of 0.169–0.216 and 211–342 m2 g−1, following the order of MMBDA > MMBMA > TBDA2 > DAT > TBDA1, wherein the Br-BPDA-MMBDA exhibited the highest SBET and FFV and thus highest CO2 permeability of 724.5 Barrer. Moreover, Br-BPDA-DAT displayed the best gas separation performance, with CO2, H2, O2, N2, and CH4 permeabilities of 349.8, 384.4, 69.8, 16.3, and 19.7 Barrer, and H2/N2 selectivity of 21.4. This can be ascribed to the ultra-micropores (<0.7 nm) caused by the high rigidity of Br-BPDA-DAT. In addition, all the bromo-containing polymers of intrinsic microporosity membranes exhibited excellent resistance to physical ageing.
Gamma Irradiation Effect on Polymeric Chains of Epoxy Adhesive
Authors: Ferrante Carino , Lucchesi Leonardo , Cemmi Alessia , Di Sarcina Ilaria , Scifo Jessica , Verna Adriano , Taschin Andrea , Senni Luca , Beghini Marco , Monelli Bernardo Disma , Raffaelli Fabrizio
Published: April 2024

The study of materials for space exploration is one of the most interesting targets of international space agencies. An essential tool for realizing light junctions is epoxy adhesive (EA), which provides an elastic and robust material with a complex mesh of polymeric chains and crosslinks. In this work, a study of the structural and chemical modification of a commercial two-part flexible EA (3M™ Scotch-Weld™ EC-2216 B/A Gray), induced by 60Co gamma radiation, is presented. Combining different spectroscopic techniques, such as the spectroscopic Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), the THz time-domain spectroscopy (TDS), and the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), a characterization of the EA response in different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum is performed, providing valuable information about the structural and chemical properties of the polymers before and after irradiation. A simultaneous dissociation of polymeric chain and crosslinking formation is observed.The polymer is not subject to structural modification at an absorbed dose of 10 kGy, in which only transient free radicals are observed. Differently, between 100 and 500 kGy, a gradual chemical degradation of the samples is observed together with a broad and long-living EPR signal appearance. This study also provides a microscopic characterization of the material useful for the mechanism evaluation of system degradation.
Accuracy Assessment and Comparison of National, European and Global Land Use Land Cover Maps at the National Scale—Case Study: Portugal
Authors: Fonte Cidália C. , Duarte Diogo , Jesus Ismael , Costa Hugo , Benevides Pedro , Moreira Francisco , Caetano Mário
Published: April 2024

The free availability of Sentinel-1 and 2 imageries enables the production of high resolution (10 m) global Land Use Land Cover (LULC) maps by a wide range of institutions, which often make them publicly available. This raises several issues: Which map should be used for each type of application? How accurate are these maps? What is the level of agreement between them? This motivated us to assess the thematic accuracy of six LULC maps for continental Portugal with 10 m spatial resolution with reference dates between 2017 and 2020, using the same method and the same reference database, in a bid to make the results comparable. The overall accuracy and the per class user’s and producer’s accuracy are compared with the ones reported by the map producers, at the national, European, or global level, according to their availability. The nomenclatures of the several maps were then analyzed and compared to generate a harmonized nomenclature to which all maps were converted into. The harmonized products were compared directly with a visual analysis and the proportion of regions equally classified was computed, as well as the area assigned per product to each class. The accuracy of these harmonized maps was also assessed considering the previously used reference database. The results show that there are significant differences in the overall accuracy of the original products, varying between 42% and 72%. The differences between the user’s and producer’s accuracy per class are very large for all maps. When comparing the obtained results with the ones reported by the map producers for Portugal, Europe or globally (depending on what is available) the results obtained in this study have lower accuracy metrics values for all maps. The comparison of the harmonized maps shows that they agree in 83% of the study area, but there are differences in terms of detail and area of the classes, mainly for the class “Built up” and “Bare land”.
Maximum Likelihood Deconvolution of Beamforming Images with Signal-Dependent Speckle Fluctuations
Authors: Zheng Yuchen , Ping Xiaobin , Li Lingxuan , Wang Delin
Published: April 2024

Ocean Acoustic Waveguide Remote Sensing (OAWRS) typically utilizes large-aperture linear arrays combined with coherent beamforming to estimate the spatial distribution of acoustic scattering echoes. The conventional maximum likelihood deconvolution (DCV) method uses a likelihood model that is inaccurate in the presence of multiple adjacent targets with significant intensity differences. In this study, we propose a deconvolution algorithm based on a modified likelihood model of beamformed intensities (M-DCV) for estimation of the spatial intensity distribution. The simulated annealing iterative scheme is used to obtain the maximum likelihood estimation. An approximate expression based on the generalized negative binomial (GNB) distribution is introduced to calculate the conditional probability distribution of the beamformed intensity. The deconvolution algorithm is further simplified with an approximate likelihood model (AM-DCV) that can reduce the computational complexity for each iteration. We employ a direct deconvolution method based on the Fourier transform to enhance the initial solution, thereby reducing the number of iterations required for convergence. The M-DCV and AM-DCV algorithms are validated using synthetic and experimental data, demonstrating a maximum improvement of 73% in angular resolution and a sidelobe suppression of 15 dB. Experimental examples demonstrate that the imaging performance of the deconvolution algorithm based on a linear small-aperture array consisting of 16 array elements is comparable to that obtained through conventional beamforming using a linear large-aperture array consisting of 96 array elements. The proposed algorithm is applicable for Ocean Acoustic Waveguide Remote Sensing (OAWRS) and other sensing applications using linear arrays.
Twin Satellites HY-1C/D Reveal the Local Details of Astronomical Tide Flooding into the Qiantang River, China
Authors: Cai Lina , Zhang Hengpan , Ye Xiaomin , Yin Jie , Tang Rong
Published: April 2024

This article extracts the Qiantang River tidal bore, analyzing the water environment characteristics in front of the tidal line of the Qiantang River tidal bore and behind it. The Qiantang River tidal bore Index (QRI) was established using HY-1C, HY-1D, and Gao Fen-1 wide field-of-view (GF-1 WFV) satellite data to precisely determine the location and details of the Qiantang River tidal bore. Comparative analyses of the changes on the two sides of the Qiantang River tidal bore were conducted. The results indicate the following: (1) QRI enhances the visibility of tidal bore lines, accentuating their contrast with the surrounding river water, resulting in a more vivid character. QRI proves to be an effective extraction method, with potential applicability to similar tidal lines in different regions. (2) Observable roughness changes occur at the tidal bore location, with smoother surface textures observed in front of the tidal line compared to those behind it. There is a discernible increase in suspended sediment concentration (SSC) as the tidal bore passes through. (3) This study reveals the mechanism of water environment change induced by the Qiantang River tidal bore, emphasizing its significance in promoting vertical water body exchange as well as scouring the bottom sediments. This effect increases SSC and surface roughness.
Regional Real-Time between-Satellite Single-Differenced Ionospheric Model Establishing by Multi-GNSS Single-Frequency Observations: Performance Evaluation and PPP Augmentation
Authors: Wang Ahao , Zhang Yize , Chen Junping , Liu Xuexi , Wang Hu
Published: April 2024

The multi-global navigation satellite system (GNSS) undifferenced and uncombined precise point positioning (UU-PPP), as a high-precision ionospheric observables extraction technology superior to the traditional carrier-to-code leveling (CCL) method, has received increasing attention. In previous research, only dual-frequency (DF) or multi-frequency (MF) observations are used to extract slant ionospheric delay with the UU-PPP. To reduce the cost of ionospheric modeling, the feasibility of extracting ionospheric observables from the multi-GNSS single-frequency (SF) UU-PPP was investigated in this study. Meanwhile, the between-satellite single-differenced (SD) method was applied to remove the effects of the receiver differential code bias (DCB) with short-term time-varying characteristics in regional ionospheric modeling. In the assessment of the regional real-time (RT) between-satellite SD ionospheric model, the internal accord accuracy of the SD ionospheric delay can be better than 0.5 TECU, and its external accord accuracy within 1.0 TECU is significantly superior to three global RT ionospheric models. With the introduction of the proposed SD ionospheric model into the multi-GNSS kinematic RT SF-PPP, the initialization speed of vertical positioning errors can be improved by 21.3% in comparison with the GRAPHIC (GRoup And PHase Ionospheric Correction) SF-PPP model. After reinitialization, both horizontal and vertical positioning errors of the SD ionospheric constrained (IC) SF-PPP can be maintained within 0.2 m. This proves that the proposed SDIC SF-PPP model can enhance the continuity and stability of kinematic positioning in the case of some GNSS signals missing or blocked. Compared with the GRAPHIC SF-PPP, the horizontal positioning accuracy of the SDIC SF-PPP in kinematic mode can be improved by 37.9%, but its vertical positioning accuracy may be decreased. Overall, the 3D positioning accuracy of the SD ionospheric-constrained RT SF-PPP can be better than 0.3 m.
A New Sparse Collaborative Low-Rank Prior Knowledge Representation for Thick Cloud Removal in Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Sun Dong-Lin , Ji Teng-Yu , Ding Meng
Published: April 2024

Efficiently removing clouds from remote sensing imagery presents a significant challenge, yet it is crucial for a variety of applications. This paper introduces a novel sparse function, named the tri-fiber-wise sparse function, meticulously engineered for the targeted tasks of cloud detection and removal. This function is adept at capturing cloud characteristics across three dimensions, leveraging the sparsity of mode-1, -2, and -3 fibers simultaneously to achieve precise cloud detection. By incorporating the concept of tensor multi-rank, which describes the global correlation, we have developed a tri-fiber-wise sparse-based model that excels in both detecting and eliminating clouds from images. Furthermore, to ensure that the cloud-free information accurately matches the corresponding areas in the observed data, we have enhanced our model with an extended box-constraint strategy. The experiments showcase the notable success of the proposed method in cloud removal. This highlights its potential and utility in enhancing the accuracy of remote sensing imagery.
GNSS and Sentinel-1 InSAR Integrated Long-Term Subsidence Monitoring in Quetta and Mastung Districts, Balochistan, Pakistan
Authors: Kakar Najeebullah , Zhao Chaoying , Li Guangrong , Zhao Haolin
Published: April 2024

Land subsidence (LS) is a global phenomenon that has affected several urban centres around the world such as Jakarta (Indonesia), Mexico City (Mexico), Xi’an (China), and Iron County (US). It has mainly been attributed to anthropogenic activities such as groundwater exploitation, especially in unconsolidated aquifer systems rich in highly compressible clay and silt. The platy clay minerals rearrange into horizontal stacks after dewatering, leading to a volume change due to overburden. In this study, land subsidence is investigated in the Quetta and Mastung districts, Balochistan, Pakistan, by employing Small Baseline Subset (SBAS) Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), and groundwater level (GWL) variations. This study represents the first attempt in Pakistan to measure the long-term land subsidence by fusing GNSS and InSAR data for improved validity. InSAR data from the Sentinel-1 satellite in the Ascending (195 scenes) and Descending (183 scenes) tracks were used to analyse LS from December 2015 to December 2022. High-accuracy Trimble NetRS GNSS receivers were used in five locations from October 2006 to December 2022. An average subsidence ranging from 3.2 cm/y to 16 cm/y was recorded in the valley mainly due to the GWL decline and clay-rich sediments, which are prone to compaction due to dewatering. An accumulative LS of 2 m was recorded by the permanent GNSS station in central Quetta from October 2008 to January 2023 (14.2 years). An acceleration in the subsidence from 12 cm/y to 16.6 cm/y after 2016 was recorded by the continuous GNSS. Additionally, the InSAR and GNSS values were compared for validation, resulting in a good correlation between both techniques. A GWL decline ranging from 1.7 m to 6 m was recorded by the piezometers in Quetta during the period 1987–2022. Large- and small-scale fissures were observed in the study area during the surveys. These fissures are responsible for damage to the city’s infrastructure and aquifer contamination. The subsidence profile also agrees with the subsurface lithology. Our assessment concludes that Quetta may be the fastest-sinking metropolitan city in Pakistan. The overexploitation of groundwater and the population explosion may be the main contributing factors for the land subsidence.
Design of a Transformer Oil Viscosity, Density, and Dielectric Constant Simultaneous Measurement System Based on a Quartz Tuning Fork
Authors: Yang Hao , Chen Shijie , Ding Jiafeng
Published: April 2024

Transformer oil, crucial for transformer and power system safety, demands effective monitoring. Aiming to address the problems of expensive and bulky equipment, poor real-time performance, and single parameter detection of traditional measurement methods, this study proposes a quartz tuning fork-based simultaneous measurement system for online monitoring of the density, viscosity, and dielectric constant of transformer oil. Based on the Butterworth–Van Dyke quartz tuning fork equivalent circuit model, a working mechanism of transformer oil density, viscosity, and dielectric constant was analyzed, and a measurement model for oil samples was obtained. A miniaturized simultaneous measurement system was designed based on a dedicated chip for vector current-voltage impedance analysis for data acquisition and a Savitzky–Golay filter for data filtering. A transformer oil test platform was built to verify the simultaneous measurement system. The results showed that the system has good repeatability, and the measurement errors of density, viscosity, and dielectric constant are lower than 2.00%, 5.50%, and 3.20%, respectively. The online and offline results showed that the system meets the requirements of the condition maintenance system for online monitoring accuracy and real-time detection.
Image-Based Concrete Crack Detection Method Using the Median Absolute Deviation
Authors: Avendaño Juan Camilo , Leander John , Karoumi Raid
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes an innovative approach for detecting and quantifying concrete cracks using an adaptive threshold method based on Median Absolute Deviation (MAD) in images. The technique applies limited pre-processing steps and then dynamically determines a threshold adapted for each sub-image depending on the greyscale distribution of the pixels, resulting in tailored crack segmentation. The edges of the crack are obtained using the Laplace edge detection method, and the width of the crack is obtained for each centreline point. The method’s performance is measured using the Probability of Detection (POD) curves as a function of the actual crack size, revealing remarkable capabilities. It was found that the proposed method could detect cracks as narrow as 0.1 mm, with a probability of 94% and 100% for cracks with larger widths. It was also found that the method has higher accuracy, precision, and F2 score values than the Otsu and Niblack methods.
Contrasting Conceptions of Work–Family Balance and the Implications for Satisfaction with Balance during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Um Sejin , Kou Anne , Waldrep Carolyn E. , Gerson Kathleen
Published: April 2024

Pandemic-related changes, including the expansion of remote work and the closure of schools and daycare supports, posed unprecedented challenges to parents’ conceptions of their work and home routines. Drawing on interviews with 88 heterosexual partnered parents, we examine the different ways parents understand what it means to balance work and family responsibilities and how their conceptions shaped satisfaction with their balance during the COVID-19 pandemic. First, we discover that parents held three distinct conceptions of work–family balance at the outset of the pandemic: (1) individualistic (where balance is understood as an individual pursuit and regarded independently of their partner’s efforts in the work and family spheres), (2) specialized (where each partner specializes in one sphere, producing balance between spheres), and (3) egalitarian (where partners share responsibilities in both spheres). Next, among the women and men who held specialized or egalitarian conceptions of balance, most sustained their level of satisfaction. In contrast, among those with individualistic conceptions, most women (but not men) reported a change in their satisfaction. These findings provide new insights about the varied meanings people attach to the concept of “work–family balance” and how these diverse conceptions have consequences for satisfaction with gender dynamics in households.
EDAR 4.0: Machine Learning and Visual Analytics for Wastewater Management
Authors: Velásquez David , Vallejo Paola , Toro Mauricio , Odriozola Juan , Moreno Aitor , Naveran Gorka , Giraldo Michael , Maiza Mikel , Sierra Basilio
Published: April 2024

Wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) operations manage massive amounts of data that can be gathered with new Industry 4.0 technologies such as the Internet of Things and Big Data. These data are critical to allow the wastewater treatment industry to improve its operation, control, and maintenance. However, the data available need to be improved and enriched, partly due to their high dimensionality and low reliability, and the lack of appropriate data analysis and processing tools for such systems. This paper presents a visual analytics-based platform for WWTP that allows users to identify relationships among data through data inspection. The results show that the tool developed and implemented for a full-scale WWTP allows operators to construct machine learning (ML) models for water quality and other water treatment process variables. Consequently, analyzing and optimizing plant operation scenarios can enhance key variables, including energy, reagent consumption, and water quality. This improvement facilitates the development of a more sustainable WWTP, contributing to a beneficial environmental impact. Domain experts validated the variables influencing the created ML models and proved their appropriateness.
Expansion of Next-Generation Sustainable Clean Hydrogen Energy in South Korea: Domino Explosion Risk Analysis and Preventive Measures Due to Hydrogen Leakage from Hydrogen Re-Fueling Stations Using Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Lee Kwanwoo , Kang Chankyu
Published: April 2024

Hydrogen, an advanced energy source, is growing quickly in its infrastructure and technological development. Urban areas are constructing convergence-type hydrogen refilling stations utilizing existing gas stations to ensure economic viability. However, it is essential to conduct a risk analysis as hydrogen has a broad range for combustion and possesses significant explosive capabilities, potentially leading to a domino explosion in the most severe circumstances. This study employed quantitative risk assessment to evaluate the range of damage effects of single and domino explosions. The PHAST program was utilized to generate quantitative data on the impacts of fires and explosions in the event of a single explosion, with notable effects from explosions. Monte Carlo simulations were utilized to forecast a domino explosion, aiming to predict uncertain events by reflecting the outcome of a single explosion. Monte Carlo simulations indicate a 69% chance of a domino explosion happening at a hydrogen refueling station if multi-layer safety devices fail, resulting in damage estimated to be three times greater than a single explosion.
How Review Valence Shapes Visit Intention: Affective Commitment and Destination Reputation
Authors: Zhao Yagang , Tang Binli , Yang Xiaojie , Nawijn Jeroen
Published: April 2024

In the era of social media, online reviews have become a crucial factor influencing the exposure of tourist destinations and the decision-making of potential tourists, exerting a profound impact on the sustainable development of these destinations. However, the influence of review valence on visit intention, especially the role of affective commitment and reputation (ability vs. responsibility), remains unclear. Drawing on emotion as a social information theory, this paper aims to elucidate the direct impact of different review valences on tourists’ visit intentions, as well as mediating mechanisms and boundary conditions. Three experiments indicate that positive (vs. negative) reviews can activate stronger affective commitment and visit intention, with affective commitment also playing a mediating role. Additionally, destination reputation significantly moderates the after-effects of review valences. More specifically, a responsibility reputation (compared with an ability reputation) weakens the effect of negative valence on affective commitment and visit intention. This study provides valuable theoretical insights into how emotional elements in online reviews influence the emotions and attitudes of potential tourists. Particularly for tourism managers, review valence and responsibility reputation hold practical significance in destination marketing.
The Impact of Data Elements on Enterprises’ Capital Market Performance: Insights from Stock Liquidity in China and Implications for Global Markets
Authors: Cui Rong , Wang Yuda , Wang Yujing
Published: April 2024

Amidst a backdrop of global economic challenges and shifting market dynamics, this study highlights the transformative role of data elements in enhancing enterprise performance within capital markets, particularly focusing on China’s leading position in the digital economy as a model with implications for global markets. This study utilized a panel data set consisting of 10,493 observations from 2687 listed enterprises in Shanghai and Shenzhen A-shares from 2015 to 2023. An econometric analysis was conducted using a two-way fixed effects model to explore the impact of enterprise data elements on capital market performance in the digital economy and its underlying mechanisms. The research reveals that the digitization of enterprise production factors can significantly enhance performance in the capital market. The study further suggests that enterprise innovation and enterprise value play a crucial role in mediating this effect. This paper introduces a new concept called “data elements”, which expands the definition and assessment methods of enterprise data capabilities. It goes beyond just digital transformation at the application level and includes data governance at the basic ability level. This approach provides a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the different elements of data. Moreover, the research expands the research scope of microeconomic entities’ economic benefits, thereby extending the value contributed by enterprise data elements to their performance in the capital market. Additionally, this study reveals the relationship between enterprise data elementization and capital market performance through intermediary analysis of enterprise innovation performance and enterprise value, which unveils the “black box” and clarifies the transmission pathway. The findings of this research hold considerable theoretical value and have far-reaching practical implications for government policies concerning data elements and the development of high-quality enterprises, suggesting pathways for global markets to leverage data for enhanced enterprise performance and economic resilience. The results are particularly useful for policymakers, enterprise managers, and scholars in understanding and implementing data-driven strategies in capital markets.
Sustainable Creative Practice with Older People: A Collaborative Approach between Arts and Care Sectors
Authors: Dadswell Anna , Wilson Ceri , Bungay Hilary
Published: April 2024

Interprofessional working is common practice within the health and care sector and particularly within care homes to support the diverse needs of their residents. However, this is less common between the arts and care sectors despite the established impact of the arts on older people’s health, wellbeing, and quality of life. Arts activities that do take place in care homes tend to be time-bound, with artists utilising short-term funding to deliver a defined project often with limited engagement from care home staff due to their competing priorities. This article reflects on qualitative findings from the Artists’ Residencies in Care Homes (ARCH) programme led by Magic Me, which paired four leading arts organisations with four care homes in Essex who worked together over four years to deliver creative arts for the residents. Building trusted relationships and collaborative working between the artists and care home staff was essential for the success of the residencies and for generating and embedding sustainable creative practice in the homes. This article argues that for creative practice to become sustainably embedded in care homes, arts organisations and the arts and culture sector need to embrace interprofessional collaborative practice in health and social care.
Stabilization of Loose Soils as Part of Sustainable Development of Road Infrastructure
Authors: Piechowicz Konrad , Szymanek Sylwia , Kowalski Jan , Lendo-Siwicka Marzena
Published: April 2024

In the context of growing demand for road infrastructure expansion, sustainability is of key importance. Enhancing road construction technology ensures efficient, durable transportation infrastructure, vital for economic growth. Responsible road construction, especially in areas of historical and environmental significance, is essential. Preserving ecosystems and local heritage in road planning protects valuable areas and supports regional sustainability. Rural roads, often in forested areas, should maintain natural aesthetics. Economic challenges require flexible, efficient roads. Many existing unpaved roads, especially in rural and forest environments, fail to meet increasing traffic and load of heavy agricultural and maintenance vehicles. Soil stabilization methods, discussed in various publications, offer sustainable solutions. Research on ecofriendly binding additives provides the opportunity to reduce cement consumption and CO2 emissions. Such innovations enhance road efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and benefit the environment. Investing in modern road technologies mitigates climate change effects by reducing emissions and protecting ecosystems. Our research indicates that soil stabilization technologies significantly improve road strength and durability. Additives can increase compressive strength by over 50% with minimal cement content. Continued research into road quality and durability is vital for sustainable transport infrastructure development. The results presented in this paper were obtained after two periods of solidification: after 7 and 30 days, with three types of ads (ion-exchangeable, chemical, and polymeric) to cement. In all tests, compaction strength improved by at least 35% in samples with the lowest cement content.
The Impact of the Rural Digital Economy on Agricultural Green Development and Its Mechanism: Empirical Evidence from China
Authors: Qi Zhenyu , You Yuezhou
Published: April 2024

Agricultural green development represents an environmentally friendly and resource-efficient agricultural model, and it is a key way to achieve sustainable agricultural development. With the rapid rise of the digital economy, its influence is gradually spreading from urban to rural areas, and it has played a significant and far-reaching role in promoting the green transformation of agriculture. This paper employs the entropy weight method to measure the level of digital economy and agricultural green development in rural areas in 30 provincial administrative regions in China from 2012 to 2021 and analyzes the relationship between the two and the mechanisms behind it. The research results show that (1) the rural digital economy significantly promotes agricultural green development. (2) With the enhancement of agricultural green development, the impact of the rural digital economy on it initially increases and then declines. (3) The rural digital economy fosters agricultural green development by advancing agricultural technology, easing credit constraints, and promoting agricultural industry agglomeration. (4) Environmental regulation intensifies the positive influence of the rural digital economy on agricultural green development. This research significantly enhances our understanding of the mechanism by which the rural digital economy facilitates agricultural green development. It offers empirical evidence and recommendations for the government to formulate and implement effective policies to advance agricultural green transformation in the context of digital economy trends.
An Architecture for Workplace Learning Analytics (WLA) to Support Lifelong Learning in Sustainable Smart Organisations
Authors: Whale Alyssa , Scholtz Brenda
Published: April 2024

An environment that supports lifelong learning contributes to the sustainability of the organisations in a Smart City, their stakeholders and ultimately, the city itself. Workplace Learning Analytics (WLA) can provide an organisation’s employees with the opportunity for lifelong learning in the workplace to enhance their skills and knowledge in their current and/or future roles. It uses the data generated by Learning Experience Platforms (LXPs) and other learning platforms to provide support for data-driven decision-making to gain a competitive edge. One of the components of successful and sustainable WLA is a layered architecture. The purpose of this paper is to present the design of a WLA architecture that can be used in organisations to impact successful WLA. This architecture was developed from the results of evaluating four potentially relevant architectures for WLA. The evaluation consisted of three phases. In the first phase, the architectures were evaluated using the DeLone and McLean Model of Information Systems Success. In the second phase, a real-world case of an organisation that provides lifelong learning opportunities to its stakeholders was used to validate the findings of the first phase. The proposed Layered Architecture for WLA was further validated in the third phase where a focus group discussion was held with participants from the real-world context. The architecture can provide valuable guidance to both practitioners and researchers to improve the success of WLA.
The Impact of Digital Financial Inclusion on Household Commercial Insurance for Sustainable Governance Mechanisms under Regional Group Differences
Authors: Hou Zaikun , Xu Jing , Choi Yongrok , Ma Yunning
Published: April 2024

This study explores the nexus between digital financial inclusion and household participation in commercial insurance, utilizing data from the Peking University Digital Financial Inclusion Index and the 2018 CFPS database. Using Probit and Logit models, our research uncovers significant regional and risk -preference variations, emphasizing the influence of governance mechanisms. The study underscores the pivotal role of digital participation in a sustainable governance mechanism in shaping financial behavior, as well as the importance of advocating for regulatory interventions, enhanced financial literacy, and infrastructure development to foster equitable insurance access. Moreover, positive determinants, such as education level and social insurance participation, are identified, while discretionary spending emerges as a barrier. This study advocates for expedited digital financial inclusion initiatives to increase financial literacy with strengthened regulatory oversight and governance mechanisms which would ensure sustainable regional development and insurance market resilience.
Response of Sandy Soil–Water Migration to Different Conditions under Unidirectional Freezing
Authors: Chen Mo , Mei Jiaheng , Shen Kai , Gao Yu
Published: April 2024

In order to conserve valuable soil and water resources and avoid problems related to frozen soil, it is important to study the migration of frozen soil water. A greater understanding of frozen soil–water migration can assist with sustainable development and utilization of soil and water resources in frozen areas. This study used an indoor soil column test device to conduct a one-way indoor freezing test of unsaturated soil and the response of soil sample water migration to different freezing temperatures, initial moisture contents, soil densities, freezing times, solute concentrations, and solute types. The experimental and analytical results showed that the temperature field of the soil sample could be divided into three stages: sharp cooling, slow cooling, and stability. After the soil sample had been frozen for 100 h, the temperature field stabilized. The freezing temperature, initial water content, soil density, and freezing time affected water migration in the soil sample. Lower freezing temperatures and greater initial water content resulted in higher levels of water migration. By contrast, greater soil density led to lower water migration levels. In addition, longer freezing times produced smoother soil–water migration curves. The solute concentration and solute type also affected water migration in frozen soil; the higher the solute concentration, the greater the water migration. Compared with CaCl2, NaCl had a stronger effect, causing more water migration and leading to a higher water content. The research findings will aid further studies on soil and water utilization, environmental maintenance, and restoration in areas with seasonally frozen soil, as well as promote the sustainable development of agriculture, water conservancy project development, and the social economy.
Urban Ecological Quality Assessment Based on Google Earth Engine and Driving Factors Analysis: A Case Study of Wuhan City, China
Authors: Zhang Weiwei , Zhang Wanqian , Ji Jianwan , Chen Chao
Published: April 2024

Ecological quality is a critical factor affecting the livability of urban areas. Remote sensing technology enables the rapid assessment of ecological quality (EQ), providing scientific theoretical support for the maintenance and management of urban ecology. This paper evaluates and analyzes the EQ and its driving factors in the city of Wuhan using remote sensing data from five periods: 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2021, supported by the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. By employing principal component analysis, a Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI) was constructed to assess the spatiotemporal differences of EQ in Wuhan City. Furthermore, the study utilized the optimal parameter-based geographical detector model to analyze the influence of factors such as elevation, slope, aspect, population density, greenness, wetness, dryness, and heat on the RSEI value in 2021 and further explored the impact of changes in precipitation and temperature on the EQ in Wuhan. The results indicate that (1) principal component analysis shows that greenness and wetness positively affect Wuhan’s EQ, while dryness and heat have negative impacts; (2) spatiotemporal analysis reveals that from 2001 to 2021, the EQ in Wuhan showed a trend of initial decline followed by improvement, with the classification grades evolving from poor and average to good and better; (3) the analysis of driving factors shows that all nine indicators have a certain impact on the EQ in Wuhan, with the influence ranking as NDVI > NDBSI > LST > WET > elevation > population density > GDP > slope > aspect; (4) the annual average temperature and precipitation in Wuhan have a non-significant impact on the EQ. The EQ in Wuhan has improved in recent years, but comprehensive management still requires enhancement.
Sustainable Healthcare Quality and Job Satisfaction through Organizational Culture: Approaches and Outcomes
Authors: Hoxha Greta , Simeli Ioanna , Theocharis Dimitrios , Vasileiou Anastasia , Tsekouropoulos Georgios
Published: April 2024

This paper explores innovative strategies to enhance sustainable healthcare quality, emphasizing the pivotal role of organizational culture and placing a special focus on employee job satisfaction. Recognizing the indispensable nature of contented employees in delivering superior patient care, our discussion explores how an organizational culture that prioritizes optimized work processes, and a supportive work environment can significantly boost employee well-being. By mitigating workplace stress through the refinement of operations and the minimization of waste, healthcare organizations can foster a setting that greatly enhances job satisfaction. This enhancement, in turn, catalyzes superior patient care and underscores the healthcare system’s dedication to sustainability and the well-being of its employees. Our analysis indicates that concentrating on employee satisfaction, deeply rooted in the organizational culture, is not merely advantageous but essential for nurturing a sustainable, high-quality healthcare system. The insights offered aim to guide healthcare organizations toward embracing strategies such as Green Lean Six Sigma, with a heightened focus on improving workforce well-being through the lens of organizational culture. This approach is expected to produce a synergistic improvement in healthcare quality by promoting operational efficiency and advancing environmental sustainability in tandem.
From Block to City Scale: Greenery’s Contribution to Cooling the Urban Environment
Authors: Licón-Portillo Jesús Abelardo , Martínez-Torres Karen Estrella , Chung-Alonso Peter , Herrera Peraza Eduardo Florencio
Published: April 2024

Urban greenery is a strategy to improve the thermal environment in urban areas affected by heat islands and global warming. These phenomena can harm the citizens’ quality of life. Researchers have investigated the thermal benefits of urban vegetation, but only a few have explored its complexities across diverse urban scales. Understanding these variations is critical for precise analysis, customized solutions, efficient resource allocation, and enhancing urban living quality while promoting sustainability and climate resilience. This paper reviews 250 scientific articles about the relationship between greenspace and the urban thermal environment published between 2010 and 2023 through urban scales. It summarizes the parameters and findings of greenery’s contribution to cooling the urban environment. The data reveal that most studies concentrated on the block scale, public open spaces, neighborhoods, parks, grouped vegetation, mixed arrangements, high vegetation, spatial parameters, and the use of air temperature data to report their findings. The cooling-effect evidence shows that the block scale has an average mitigation range of 0.7–2.7 °C, the neighborhood scale of 1.1–2.9 °C, and the city scale of 0.5–2.2 °C. Furthermore, it is critical to define reliable research methods and perform thorough software validation to assess model performance and establish guidelines for urban-landscape design accurately.
Current Status of and Suggestions on Sewage Treatment Fees in China
Authors: Zeng Guoming , Ma Zilong , He Yu , Chen Lin , Sun Da , Lei Xiaoling
Published: April 2024

China’s sewage treatment standards have been gradually improving, yet there is a widening gap between sewage treatment fees and actual costs. This discrepancy, where the fees for sewage treatment are lower than the actual operational expenses, poses a significant bottleneck to the sustainable development of China’s sewage treatment industry. As a core aspect of environmental economic policies, sewage treatment fees are pivotal in regulating water pollution emissions and addressing water resource shortages. Currently, there are major issues with sewage treatment fees, including an incomplete pricing system, insufficient fees, unclear fee distribution, and a heavy reliance on local finances. These problems impede systematic planning, diminish management efficiency, and hinder the sustainable development of the sewage treatment industry. Thus, future research efforts should prioritize the establishment of a pricing mechanism that comprehensively covers the full cost of sewage treatment. This article presents a concise summary and review of the current situation, types of fee collection, cost accounting methodologies, challenges, and proposed countermeasures for sewage treatment fees, and could serve as a relevant reference for future research on sewage treatment fees. By comprehensively addressing these issues, the sewage treatment industry would progress towards healthier and more sustainable development, ultimately achieving the goal of green growth.