bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geospatial Analysis with Landsat Series and Sentinel-3B OLCI Satellites to Assess Changes in Land Use and Water Quality over Time in Brazil
Authors: Moro Leila Dal , Maculan Laércio Stolfo , Pivoto Dieisson , Cardoso Grace Tibério , Pinto Diana , Adelodun Bashir , Bodah Brian William , Santosh M. , Bortoluzzi Marluse Guedes , Branco Elisiane , Neckel Alcindo
Published: August 2022

Geospatial analyses have gained fundamental importance on a global scale following emphasis on sustainability. Here we geospatially analyze images from Landsat 2/5/7/8 satellites captured during 1975 to 2020 in order to determine changes in land use. Sentinel-3B OLCI (Ocean Land Color Instrument) images obtained in 2019 and 2021 were utilized to assess water resources, based on water turbidity levels (TSM_NN), suspended pollution potential (ADG_443_NN) and the presence of chlorophyll-a (CHL_NN) in order to temporally monitor the effectiveness of Brazilian legislation currently in force. This work on sustainability standards was applied to a hydrographic basin dedicated to agricultural production located in southern Brazil. Satellite images from Landsat 2/5/7/8 (1975 to 2020) and Sentinel-3B OLCI (2019 and 2021) revealed that changes in land use, vegetation cover and water in the Capinguí Dam reservoir detected high concentrations of ADG_443_NN (3830 m−1), CHL_NN (20,290 mg m−3) and TSM_NN (100 gm−3). These results can alert the population to the risks to public health and harm to hydrographic preservation, capable of covering large regions.
Monitoring Desertification Using a Small Set of Biophysical Indicators in the Brazilian Semiarid Region
Authors: Perez-Marin Aldrin Martin , Vendruscolo Jhony , Zárate-Salazar Jhonatan Rafael , De Araújo Queiroz Heithor Alexandre , Magalhães Daniel Lima , Menezes Rômulo S. C. , Fernandes Izaias Médice
Published: August 2022

Desertification is defined as land degradation in arid, semiarid, and dry sub-humid regions, and it is caused primarily by human activities and climate change. The semiarid region of Northeast (NE) Brazil is a very large, populous region, and thus, it is hard to monitor the dynamics of its desertified areas; therefore, the present study aimed to develop a minimum set of biophysical indicators to qualify and monitor desertification in this region. This approach included sampling a pair of preserved forested areas and nearby degraded, non-forested areas which had no vegetation growth in the previous years. The study was developed in four stages: (a) pilot site selection; (b) quantification and analysis of soil and vegetation biophysical indicators; (c) biophysical indicator selection; and (d) elaboration of the minimum set of biophysical indicators and desertification levels. Of the analyzed 24 biophysical indicators, 11 were retained and subjected to factor analysis by its principal components. This yielded the minimum set of indicators used to estimate the desertification levels of the pilot sites, which consisted of four soil characteristics: Total Organic Carbon (TOC), cation exchange capacity, clay content, and magnesium content. Regressions were conducted using the SQI, and these indicators showed that the TOC had the highest coefficient of determination. In an exploratory analysis, high SQI (low desertification) showed a positive correlation with the normalized difference vegetation index (R = 0.70) and Aridity Index (R = 0.97). This methodological approach could form the basis of a dynamic monitoring system that is capable of supplying objective, quantitative, and easy to obtain information to decision-makers in NE Brazil and other dry ecosystems around the globe.
Analysis of the Working Response Mechanism of Wrapped Face Reinforced Soil Retaining Wall under Strong Vibration
Authors: Xu Honglu , Cai Xiaoguang , Wang Haiyun , Li Sihan , Huang Xin , Zhang Shaoqiu
Published: August 2022

A series of shaking table tests were carried out to explore the dynamic characteristics and working mechanisms of wrapped-face reinforced soil-retaining walls under strong vibration. Under the 0.1–1.0 g horizontal peak ground acceleration (HPGA), the damping ratio of sand shows a downward trend as a whole, so the acceleration amplification coefficient decreases with the increase of HPGA. However, when HPGA reaches 1.0 g, the acceleration amplification coefficient increases; the range of acceleration amplification coefficient at the top of the wall is 1.69–1.36. When HPGA is 1.0 g, the maximum cumulative residual displacement of the panel is 2.96% H, and the maximum uneven settlement of the sand is 3.57% H, both of which have exceeded the limit of the specification. With the increase of HPGA, the ratio of the dynamic earth force increment to the total dynamic earth force gradually approaches 50%. Since the reinforcement effect of geogrid is not considered, the predicted value of traditional earth pressure theory is different from the measured value. According to the Washington State Department of Transportation displacement index, the deformation range of wrapped-face reinforced soil-retaining walls is divided into three stages: the quasi-elastic stage, the plastic stage, and the failure stage.
ESG Ratings in the Corporate Reporting of DAX40 Companies in Germany: Effects on Market Participants
Authors: Banke Marius , Lenger Stephanie , Pott Christiane
Published: August 2022

This study identifies to what extent DAX40 companies integrate ESG rating information into their reporting and whether the disclosure of ESG ratings results has a positive impact on professional and non-professional stakeholders, and thus represents a benefit for the reporting company. Our study shows that 82.5% of DAX40 companies report ESG rating results and we find that the disclosure of ESG rating results is a useful method for reporting companies (compared to non-reporters), as it leads to higher stock prices and better reputations. Considering that ESG rating results can differ substantially among different agencies, therefore, even companies with mixed ESG rating results benefit from reporting. In addition, our results support the literature that non-professional stakeholders use low-threshold information offers as an information channel. We show that companies that additionally report their ESG rating results on company websites generate higher reputation scores compared to companies that do not report their rating results on their websites.
Comprehensive Assessment of Geopolitical Risk in the Himalayan Region Based on the Grid Scale
Authors: Wu Shihai , Zhang Yili , Yan Jianzhong
Published: August 2022

The Himalayan region serves as a land bridge between China and South Asia but is vulnerable to geopolitical factors. It is important to conduct geopolitical risk assessments to facilitate the restoration and construction of traditional trade routes in the Himalayan region. Based on multisource natural, political, and socioeconomic data, we selected 12 indicators, including topographic relief, landslide risk, multi-hazard index, population density, territorial disputes, conflict risk, corruption perception index, transboundary water disputed risk, night light index, GDP, accessibility, and economic freedom, to assess these risks. A comprehensive assessment of the geopolitical risk in the Himalayan region is presented using the random forest (RF) model, analytic hierarchy process (AHP), entropy weight method, and AHP-entropy weight method. The results indicated that the geopolitical risk in the Himalayan region is generally high in the north and low in the south, with high level of risk primarily concentrated in the Kashmir valley and south, south-central Nepal and southern Tibet, and low level of risk mainly concentrated in the Bhutan and Tibet border areas of China. The high likelihood of natural risk is largely concentrated in the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, Nepal, southeastern Bhutan, and southern Tibet. Significant political risk is mostly confined to the Kashmir valley and its south, while economic risk is mostly concentrated in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa of Pakistan, Pakistani-administered regions of Kashmir, and Nepal. Geopolitical risk assessment based on the grid scale can better reveal and portray the spatial distribution of geopolitical risk in the Himalayan region and provide a basis for the restoration and construction of traditional trade routes in this region. According to the results of the geopolitical risk assessment, it is recommended that priority be given to construction in areas of relatively low risk, such as those close to Burang Country and Mustang, and that integrated planning be carried out for the restoration and construction of the predominantly low-risk trade routes between China and Bhutan, with further comprehensive analysis of each route conducted in conjunction with field surveys and proposed construction and control strategies.
Romanian Dentists’ Perception of Legal Liability Related to COVID-19 Infection during Dental Treatments in Times of the Pandemic Outbreak
Authors: Aluaș Maria , Bolboacă Sorana D. , Mesaroș Anca-Ștefania , Lucaciu Patricia Ondine
Published: August 2022

Our study aimed to describe and assess the impact of legal aspects on dentists’ practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. The objectives were: (a) to explore dentists’ and dental managers’ knowledge about dental liability during the COVID-19 pandemic; (b) to inquire about the respondents’ perceptions of immunity for prejudices resulting from non-urgent dental procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic; and (c) to assess respondents’ “good faith” in handling challenges in the pandemic context. We conducted an observational, cross-sectional, exploratory study based on a survey. The target population was represented by active dentists in Romania from 11 March 2020 to 31 January 2022. An email, professional groups on WhatsApp, and Facebook invitation to participate were sent at the end of January 2022. Data were collected using a self-administrated electronic questionnaire. The responses of sixty-one participants, the majority younger than 41 years (82%) and women (77%), were analyzed. Most respondents (72%) appropriately thought that patients could complain about being infected with COVID-19 during their visits for dental treatment. Most respondents agreed that all dental personnel should benefit from legal immunity (72%). The respondents indicated that clinic or office management is responsible for failing to implement/respect the safety measures and protocols specific to the COVID-19 pandemic (83%). Outcomes showed that the respondents are aware of the possibility of being sued and would not be surprised to see COVID-19 raised in litigation, while the state’s immunity is expected for all dental care personnel, not only dentists.
Spatial-Temporal Pattern Evolution of Xi’an Metropolitan Area Using DMSP/OLS and NPP/VIIRS Nighttime Light Data
Authors: Li Shangzhi , Li Xuxiang , Zhang Meng
Published: August 2022

A metropolitan area provides valuable space for economic development, and it is the home on which human beings depend for their survival. However, metropolitan areas are often faced with prominent problems caused by the natural environment and city layout. Therefore, understanding metropolitan areas’ spatial-temporal pattern evolution is of vital significance for medium-to-long-term city growth. This study uses the nighttime light data to monitor the urban pattern evolution of the Xi’an Metropolitan Area (XMA) over the past 30 years. The study results suggest that the continuity correction and consistency correction used in this study can construct a stable long-term, multi-source nighttime light dataset and, at the same time, accurately reflect the changes in the urban pattern. The determination coefficient between gross domestic product (GDP) and total nighttime light (TNL) reached 0.90; the nighttime light index (NLI) of the XMA is characterized by high spatial heterogeneity. The NLI of the core areas has been saturated before 2004, while the CNLI value of the peripheral Chang’an District was 0.31 by 2021. Urban land expanded in all directions, with an average expansion rate of 12.9% and an expansion intensity of 2.6%. The nighttime light gravity center generally shifted towards southwest, from (108.915° E, 34.355° N) in 1992 to (108.922° E, 34.343° N) in 2021. The urban pattern of the metropolitan area is influenced by the natural environment, and the southwest and northeast directions will be the primary development directions in the future. The local development policy is a crucial driving factor in the urban pattern evolution, which significantly affects the location and intensity of urban expansion; the center of gravity of the XMA has different migration directions in different periods, meaning that the development of the metropolitan area tends to be balanced.
Does Air Cargo Matter in Chinese Regional Economic Development? An Empirical Granger Causality Test
Authors: Zhou Jun , Leng Liang , Yuan Quan , Shi Xiaofa
Published: August 2022

Using longitudinal data of 110 prefecture-level cities in China between 2006 and 2019, this paper conducts a Granger causality test between air cargo and regional economies through a multivariate VAR model, and attempts to explain the causal relationship in accordance with the endogenous and exogenous growth theory. Our results show that while the impacts of regional socioeconomic factors, including GDP and employment, on air cargo are larger in terms of magnitude than those of air cargo on the regional economy, the former effects are less robust when subsamples are included in the models. The benefits of air cargo growth for local economic growth are less dependent on the sizes, locations, and characteristics of cities. In accordance with the endogenous and exogenous growth theory, air cargo development policies need to be more favorable to regions with faster growth in secondary industry employment, as well as regions that are in urgent need of developing import and export trade.
Exploring the Adoption of Service-Dominant Logic as an Integrative Framework for Assessing Energy Transitions
Authors: Sarno Debora , Siano Pierluigi
Published: August 2022

Energy transitions (ETs) can solve some societal problems but must transform societies. Accordingly, socio-technical transitions and other systemic frameworks have been used to assess ETs. However, based on these frameworks, assessments miss a value co-creation orientation, the focus on actors’ researched benefits and enabled service exchange, and the consideration of needed de/re-institutionalization practices. Analyzing those elements could prevent socioeconomic shocks and loss of opportunities and unfold possible ET challenges against ET viability and sustainability. Intending to develop a theory synthesis work for enriching previous frameworks, we propose service-dominant logic (S-D logic) as an integrative framework to assess ETs. We offer a literature review on ET systems’ frameworks to compare them with the proposal. We also identify the implications of adopting S-D logic for rethinking energy systems’ dynamics and ETs. Thus, we contribute to the literature by providing an integrative framework for assessing ETs and we illustrate its potentialities by deriving some challenges of the current Italian ET. This study paves the way for deeper analyses on the contribution of S-D logic to ETs and the operationalization of other systems’ frameworks in our integrative one. Merging with quantitative models could also follow.
Toward a Design Framework for Mathematical Modeling Activities: An Analysis of Official Exemplars in Hong Kong Mathematics Education
Authors: Lo Chung-Kwan , Huang Xiaowei , Cheung Ka-Luen
Published: August 2022

Mathematical modeling is considered a bridge to STEM education and has been incorporated into K–12 mathematics curriculums in various countries. However, it has a relatively short history in Hong Kong schools. The lack of high-quality, relevant exemplars of mathematical modeling activities is a challenge to teacher practice in this area. Hence, this study aims to establish a design framework for mathematical modeling activities suitable for teachers and students in Hong Kong. We explore the design and content of the official mathematical modeling exemplars published by the Hong Kong Education Bureau using a document analysis approach. The findings provide the basis for developing a framework to be used in the future design of mathematical modeling activities. Four exemplars were found and analyzed in terms of their structural components, level of learning experience in mathematical modeling, and design characteristics. Based on our findings, we discussed various strategies to enhance the design of a mathematical modeling activity, including setting diversified learning objectives, cross-subject collaboration when formulating the problem context and instructions, designing more activities suitable for average and underperforming students, emphasizing the evaluation of modeling outcomes, and providing relevant supporting materials. Our study thus lays the groundwork for advancing the teaching and learning of mathematical modeling in school contexts.
The Antecedents of Corporate Sustainability Performance: A Study on Generic and Sustainability-Related Corporate Governance Mechanisms
Authors: Minciullo Marco , Zaccone Maria Cristina , Pedrini Matteo
Published: August 2022

This study aims to investigate the antecedents of corporate sustainability performance, focusing on corporate governance mechanisms. The growing diffusion of sustainability-related corporate governance regulation raises a legitimate question about the effectiveness of these mechanisms in fostering sustainability performance. While extant research has separately taken into consideration different mechanisms related to corporate governance and sustainability, in this study, we investigate the combined effect of generic governance mechanisms, such as board size and board independence, and sustainability-related governance mechanisms, such as the presence of a sustainability committee and sustainability targets in executives’ compensation schemes, on corporate sustainability performance. Based on a dataset of 185 companies listed in the most important European markets, our results indicate that both generic and sustainability-related governance mechanisms enhance corporate sustainability performance. More specifically, the presence of independent directors and the inclusion of quantitative sustainability targets in executives’ compensation schemes contribute to corporate sustainability performance.
Potassium Source and Biofertilizer Influence K Release and Fruit Yield of Mango (Mangifera indica L.): A Three-Year Field Study in Sandy Soils
Authors: Wang Jiyue , Ding Zheli , AL-Huqail Arwa Abdulkreem , Hui Yongyong , He Yingdui , Reichman Suzie M. , Ghoneim Adel M. , Eissa Mamdouh A. , Abou-Zaid Eman A. A.
Published: August 2022

Arid degraded soils have a coarse texture and poor organic matter content, which reduces the activity of microorganisms and soil enzymes, and thus the soil quality, plant yield and quality decrease. Potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB) have been suggested to increase the activity of soil enzymes and increase the release of potassium from natural K-feldspar in the arid degraded soil, and thus potentially reduce the rates of the application of chemical fertilizers. Field studies were conducted for three successive growing seasons in an organic farming system to investigate the effects of K-feldspar and KSB (Bacillus cereus) on K release, soil fertility, and fruit yield of mango plants (Mangifera indica L.). The maximum growth of mango plants was found in the treatments inoculated with KSB. KSB increased soil available N, P, K, and the activity of dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase enzymes by 10, 7, 18, 54, and 52%, respectively. KSB increased the fruit yield of mango by 23, 27, and 23% in the first, second, and third growing seasons, respectively. The partial (up to 50%) substitution of chemical K-fertilizer with K-feldspar gave fruit yield and quality very close to that fertilized with the full chemical K-fertilizer. The release rate of K (over all the treatments) varied between 0.18 and 0.64 mg kg−1 of soil per day. KSB significantly increased the K release rate. The application of chemical K-fertilizer gave the highest K release, while substitution with K-feldspar reduced the release of K. Natural K-feldspar contains 8.2% K but is poorly soluble when applied alone. KSB increased the soil quality parameters and enhanced the growth and quality of mango fruit. The fruit yield of mango, under KSB inoculation and fertilization with different K sources, ranged between 9.14 to 17.14 t ha−1. The replacement of 50% of chemical K-fertilizer with natural K-feldspar caused a decrease in the fruit yield by 17, 8, and 2.7% in the first, second, and third years, respectively. The substitution of chemical K-fertilizer with K-feldspar up to 50% with KSB is a good strategy to reduce the excessive use of chemical K-fertilizer. B. cereus and natural K-feldspar have the potential to improve soil health and mango plant productivity in low fertile arid soils.
Building Community Resilience to Violent Extremism through Community-Based Youth Organizations: A Case of Post-Conflict North Waziristan, Pakistan
Authors: Makki Muhammad , Akash Syed Ali
Published: August 2022

This paper presents the case of endogenously generated community resilience to violent extremism by discussing the formation and functioning of community-based youth organizations (CBYOs) in post-conflict North Waziristan. In doing so, the paper deciphers a micro-sociological phenomenon underlining the community (re)organization through their new mode of interaction and connectedness, sustaining a resilient social change in the post-conflict setting. The research employed a qualitative research design using the ‘mini-ethnographic’ case study method. For the purpose, twelve CBYOs and members of the local youth were interviewed, allowing for a subjective assessment of the emergence and sustenance of (community) resilience to violent extremism. Offering unique sociological perspectives on a post-conflict context, the study uncovers the community resilience generated through the formation of CBYOs by educated youth in North Waziristan. The social activities and engagement by youth, through education and awareness campaigns, are instilling a social change (by replacing the old ideas and customs with new ones) that aims at creating a peaceful society.
Research on the Development Law of Pre-Mining Microseisms and Risk Assessment of Floor Water Inrush: A Case Study of the Wutongzhuang Coal Mine in China
Authors: Huang Lei , Xu Yanchun , Liu Shiqi , Gai Qiukai , Miao Wei , Li Yubao , Zhao Lisong
Published: August 2022

Coal-mining areas are widely distributed in Northern China, but are under threat from confined water in the mining operation, resulting in a series of floor water- inrush hazards. Therefore, it is significant to effectively evaluate the floor water inrush to ensure safe and efficient coal mining. The 182602 working face of the Wutongzhuang coal mine served as the background for our research. The concept of “pre-mining microseisms” was proposed, and based on this, microseismic monitoring equipment was arranged on site. The correlation between microseismic events and the water abundance of an aquifer was analyzed, and a floor water inrush evaluation method was constructed based on the three elements of an aquifer and pre-mining microseisms. The main results are as follows: first, the microseismic events were excited by artificial disturbances before the mining of the working face including slurry diffusion and neighboring mining, which had the characteristics of sporadicity, clustering, and periodicity. Second, the regional distribution of water abundance was determined by taking the water inflow, water pressure, and grouting volume as the outward performance characteristics of water abundance in the Shanvuqing aquifer. Furthermore, the correlation coefficient between the pre-mining microseisms and the three elements of the aquifer (water inflow, water pressure, and grouting volume) was larger than 0.7. On this basis, an evaluation method associated with the water inrush risk along the strike of the working face was established based on pre-mining microseisms, dividing the working face into dangerous zones, suspected dangerous zones, and safe zones. Furthermore, pre-mining microseisms, water abundance, and structures were introduced as risk-evaluation indices, and the complete weight was calculated using an analytic hierarchy process and entropy-weight technique, before a vulnerability index model of floor water inrush was built. Finally, targeted treatment procedures were efficiently implemented to ensure the safe mining of working face 182602 due to the successful prediction of potential water risk zones. The research results provide scientific and technological support for pre-mining microseisms combined with water abundance as a technical method to prevent floor water inrush.
EIA Effectiveness in Sensitive Alpine Areas: A Comparison of Winter Tourism Infrastructure Development in Germany and Austria
Authors: Pröbstl-Haider Ulrike
Published: August 2022

The paper analyses the effectiveness of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) in sensitive alpine environments by studying processes and selected case studies in Austria and Germany. The framework used to evaluate the respective effectiveness is based on four dimensions of effectiveness: procedural, substantive, transactive and normative. The study is based on semi-structured interviews, workshops with key stakeholders and textual analysis of EIA documents, as well as the analysis of legal documents. The findings reveal significant differences between the two countries leading to lower transactive and lower normative effectiveness in Austria. The framework demonstrates its high suitability for analysing EIA effectiveness and for developing recommendations. The outcomes also underline the significant influence of the project type.
Factors of Digital Transformation in the Maritime Transport Sector
Authors: Jović Marija , Tijan Edvard , Vidmar Doroteja , Pucihar Andreja
Published: August 2022

This paper aims to present the model of factors which influence the digital transformation in maritime transport sector. The preliminary model is based on a literature review and interviews conducted to identify the relevant factors influencing the digital transformation of stakeholders operating in the maritime transport sector. In order to test the model, the survey was conducted on the sample of Croatian administrative (port authorities, ministry, harbormaster’s offices, etc.) and commercial stakeholders (freight forwarders, agents, terminal operators, etc.) operating in maritime transport sector. The collected data was analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach. The research has shown that organizational, technological, and environmental (TOE) factors affect the digitalization of the organizations in the maritime transport sector. As a result of digitalization, changes in business models are visible: organizations in maritime transport sector generate additional revenue from new sources, provide new services, and introduce new sales channels.
Strengthening a Regional Green Infrastructure through Improved Multifunctionality and Connectedness: Policy Suggestions from Sardinia, Italy
Authors: Isola Federica , Lai Sabrina , Leone Federica , Zoppi Corrado
Published: August 2022

A wide body of research in recent years has studied either green infrastructures as providers of multiple ecosystem services, especially at the urban level, or ecological corridors and the issue of connectivity between landscape patches in the face of growing fragmentation. However, not many studies have analyzed how the two concepts can be combined to ground evidence-based policy and planning recommendations. In this study, a methodological approach for such a combination is proposed: after mapping a regional green infrastructure building upon the assessment of multiple ecosystem services and a network of ecological corridors through the resistance to movement of species, the two spatial layouts are combined so as to analyze correlations between the potential provision of ecosystem services and the resistance to movement. The methodology is applied in the case of the island of Sardinia, whose self-containment makes it possible to discard potential effects from surrounding areas, hence facilitating the implementation of the model. The outcomes of the regression model point out three ecosystem services as the most important factors that should be targeted by appropriate spatial policies if connectivity is to be increased: regulation of micro and local climate, forestry productivity, and cultural identity and heritage values.
Integrated Optimization of Order Allocation and Last-Mile Multi-Temperature Joint Distribution for Fresh Agriproduct Community Retail
Authors: Zhan Yajun , Jiang Yiping
Published: August 2022

Community retail is an important research issue in the field of fresh agriproduct e-commerce. This paper focuses on the problem of last-mile multi-temperature joint distribution (MTJD), which combines time coupling, order allocation, and vehicle scheduling. Firstly, according to the temperature of a refrigerated truck in multi-temperature zones, a split-order packing decision is proposed to integrate the different types of fresh agriproduct. Then, the order allocation strategy is incorporated into a comprehensive picking and distribution schedule, while taking into account the time-coupling of picking, distribution, and delivery time limit. To improve consumer satisfaction and reduce order fulfillment costs, an optimization model combining multi-item order allocation and vehicle scheduling is established, to determine the optimal order allocation scheme and distribution route. Finally, taking fresh agriproduct community retail in the Gulou District of Nanjing as an example, the effectiveness and feasibility of the model are illustrated. The numerical results of medium- to large-scale examples show that, compared with the variable neighborhood search algorithm (VNS) and genetic algorithm (GA), the mixed genetic algorithm (MGA) can save 29% of CPU time and 65% of iterations. This study considers the integrated optimization of multiple links, to provide scientific decision support for fresh agriproduct e-commerce enterprises.
Determinants and Value Relevance of Voluntary Assurance of Sustainability Reports in a Mandatory Reporting Context: Evidence from Europe
Authors: Vander Bauwhede Heidi , Van Cauwenberge Philippe
Published: August 2022

This paper investigates the determinants of sustainability report (SR) assurance and whether this assurance is value relevant within the context of the European Union (EU), where, under the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD), sustainability reporting is mandatory for large public interest entities (PIE) as of fiscal year 2017. Using a sample of 1832 firm-year observations from 660 European listed companies over the period 2017–2020, the results of a logistic regression analysis indicate that firm size, environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance and industry affiliation are important drivers of the demand for SR assurance. The value relevance regressions suggest that SR assurance is positively associated with the stock market value. The study contributes to the existing knowledge on SR assurance by documenting its determinants and value relevance in a context where sustainability reporting is mandatory and that is predominantly stakeholder-oriented. The results may be of interest to companies that consider to adopt SR assurance in such a context and to the European Commission (EC), which has included a mandatory SR assurance requirement in the proposed Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the successor to the NFRD.
Simulation of Sustainable Manufacturing Solutions: Tools for Enabling Circular Economy
Authors: Khan Athar Ajaz , Abonyi János
Published: August 2022

At the current worrisome rate of global consumption, the linear economy model of producing goods, using them, and then disposing of them with no thought of the environmental, social, or economic consequences, is unsustainable and points to a deeply flawed manufacturing framework. Circular economy (CE) is presented as an alternative framework to address the management of emissions, scarcity of resources, and economic sustainability such that the resources are kept ‘in the loop’. In the context of manufacturing supply chains (SCs), the 6R’s of rethink, refuse, reduce, reuse, repair, and recycle have been proposed in line with the achievement of targeted net-zero emissions. In order to bring that about, the required changes in the framework for assessing the state of manufacturing SCs with regard to sustainability are indispensable. Verifiable and empirical model-based approaches such as modeling and simulation (M&S) techniques find pronounced use in realizing the ideal of CE. The simulation models find extensive use across various aspects of SCs, including analysis of the impacts, and support for optimal re-design and operation. Using the PRISMA framework to sift through published research, as gathered from SCOPUS, this review is based on 202 research papers spanning from 2015 to the present. This review provides an overview of the simulation tools being put to use in the context of sustainability in the manufacturing SCs, such that various aspects and contours of the collected research articles spanning from 2015 to the present, are highlighted. This article focuses on the three major simulation techniques in the literature, namely, Discrete Event Simulation (DES), Agent-Based Simulation (ABS), and System Dynamics (SD). With regards to their application in manufacturing SCs, each modeling technique has its pros and its cons which are evinced in case of data requirement, model magnification, model resolution, and environment interaction, among others. These limitations are remedied through use of hybrids wherein two or more than two modeling techniques are applied for the desired results. The article also indicates various open-source software solutions that are being employed in research and the industry. This article, in essence, has three objectives. First to present to the prospective researchers, the current state of research, the concerns that have been presented in the field of sustainability modeling, and how they have been resolved. Secondly, it serves as a comprehensive bibliography of peer-reviewed research published from 2015–2022 and, finally, indicating the limitations of the techniques with regards to sustainability assessment. The article also indicates the necessity of a new M&S framework and its prerequisites.
Physico-Mechanical Characterization of Gypsum-Agricultural Waste Composites for Developing Eco-Friendly False Ceiling Tiles
Authors: Ejaz Muhammad Fahad , Riaz Muhammad Rizwan , Azam Rizwan , Hameed Rashid , Fatima Anam , Deifalla Ahmed Farouk , Mohamed Abdeliazim Mustafa
Published: August 2022

This paper aims to facilitate in the reduction of issues related to agricultural wastes such as disposal and burning by incorporating two widely produced agricultural wastes in Pakistan, i.e., Rice Husk and Wheat Straw, in gypsum false ceiling plates to develop an eco-friendly construction product. There is an increased focus of research on the development of such eco-friendly gypsum products to make the use of gypsum sustainable. Composites containing agricultural residues with four different replacement levels of 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10% by weight are developed along with a control mix containing 100% gypsum. The physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of the developed composites are investigated. Also, the false ceiling plates are made using the developed composites and their flexural behavior is compared with that of the control specimen containing 100% gypsum. The results showed that density and shore C hardness reduced with increasing the amount of agricultural waste while the water absorption remained similar up to a dosage of 7.5%. Except for the 10% wheat straw dosage, flexural and compressive strength of developed composites showed a decrease with the increase of wheat straw and rice husk dosages but remained above the acceptable values of 1 MPa and 2 MPa, respectively, as per BS EN 14246. For the same replacement level, the composites containing wheat straw showed relatively inferior mechanical properties results as compared to those containing rice husk. The thermal conductivity test showed better thermal performance of the composite mixes as compared to the reference mix. The bending test on false ceiling plates showed that all the plates satisfied the minimum flexural strength criteria as per BS EN 14246 and the flexural strength of plates increased up to a replacement level of 5% for both the agricultural wastes.
Optimal Patent Protection Length for Vital Pharmaceuticals in the Age of COVID-19
Authors: Habiyaremye Alexis
Published: August 2022

The highly unequal access to COVID-19 vaccines observed at a critical moment of the pandemic coupled with the considerable profits cashed by the main vaccine producers have brought the debates on patent protection back into sharp focus. The trade-off between the need to encourage innovation through patent protection and the right of populations across the world to access life-saving pharmaceutical products raises important concerns that go beyond innovation stimulation. This paper leans on the inclusion of non-economic considerations based on social identity theory in optimization strategies to analyze the arguments underlying the patent length in the pharmaceutical industry and questions the measurement of social benefits of innovation in the Nordhaus’s model in its applicability to the case of vital pharmaceuticals. It proposes some new considerations akin to extra welfarism in the microeconomic analysis of the social welfare underlying traditional arguments in support of long patent protection periods. Simplified comparative statics are employed to show that, from the social welfare point of view, an incentive system in which a reward equivalent to the discounted profits is remitted to the innovator yields higher social welfare than monopoly protection without diminishing the incentive to innovate. These results suggest that in the case of vital medicines such as vaccines and antiretroviral drugs for HIV/AIDS treatment, social welfare is maximized by imposing compulsory licensing and making treatment accessible to all (potentially) infected citizens.
Internal Temperature Variation on Spontaneous Combustion of Coal Gangue Dumps under the Action of a Heat Pipe: Case Study on Yinying Coal Mine in China
Authors: Zhao Na , Zhang Yongbo , Zhao Xuehua , Niu Jinrong , Shi Hong , Yang Na , Gao Tong , Guo Lina
Published: August 2022

Coal gangue spontaneous combustion is a serious catastrophe associated with mining activities. Generally, the areas of coal gangue spontaneous combustion are regions of tremendous heat accumulation. Mastering the regularity of deep temperature distribution and eliminating internal heat is an effective method to control spontaneous combustion. In this study, using self-developed heat pipe (HP) and intelligent cloud monitoring software, three sets of single pipe experiments were conducted in different temperature areas of the coal gangue dump in Yinying Coal Mine. A fitted model between shallow and deep temperatures was established using the least squares method to perform goodness-of-fit tests and significance analysis, and to analyze the internal temperature variation under the action of an HP. The results show that the quadratic model fits better and the regression is significant, and can be used as an empirical regression formula for the shallow temperature estimation of the deep temperature. The temperature was clearly suppressed by the HP, and the average cooling range reaches 21.44% within 700 h. However, the temperature of the control group without an HP continued to rise by 8%. In the three experimental groups, the effective control radius of the single HP was 3 m. The best cooling was achieved when the gangue depth was 1 to 4 m and the temperature was between 90 °C and 450 °C. The study shows that the HP has a great effect on thermal removal and inhibits spontaneous combustion of the gangue. In addition, this paper also provides a theoretical basis for the technology of HP treatment of spontaneous combustion gangue dumps.
Evaluation of Integration Information Signage in Transport Hubs Based on Building Information Modeling and Virtual Reality Technologies
Authors: Jin Wenting , Yao Ying , Ren Guichao , Zhao Xiaohua
Published: August 2022

Signage plays a crucial part in passengers’ wayfinding process. This research proposes a general method to optimize and evaluate different signage alternatives based on building information modeling (BIM), virtual reality (VR) technologies, and passengers’ wayfinding behaviors. A wayfinding experiment with 46 participants was conducted in a virtual environment. In this experiment, relevant measurements, including wayfinding time, wrong turns, and stopping and looking, were selected to describe wayfinding behaviors. The results showed that the evaluation outcome of the new integration information signage was better than that of the old one, with its wayfinding measurements decreasing to varying degrees. Overall, the new integration information-signage solution is more efficient in guiding passengers. Moreover, this general method of optimizing and evaluating signage alternatives with BIM and VR technologies is also suitable for other indoor spaces. Practitioner Summary: To evaluate the old and new integration information signage in transport hubs, a virtual reality experiment was conducted in this study based on the wayfinding theory and the TOPSIS comprehensive evaluation approach. The results showed that the new integration information signage solution was more efficient than the old one in guiding passengers.
Strategic Capabilities for Enhancing the Flood Resilience of Business Premises: An Expert Review and Lessons from Case Studies
Authors: Adeniyi Onaopepo , Rathnasiri Pavithra , Oladinrin Olugbenga Timo , Rana Muhammad Qasim
Published: August 2022

Sustainable development entails socio-economic wellbeing, which is often threatened by weather hazards. Indeed, the need to minimise the adverse impact of climate change and extreme weather events cannot be overstressed. Notably, damage to the built environment by extreme weather and its consequential effects is highly significant. This emphasises the need for a climate-resilient built environment. Thus, this study derived the strategic capability areas required by business organisations to achieve the flood resilience of their built environment. The research method involved rounds of review by a carefully selected team of experts, and the review of lessons from four case studies. Twenty-six capability areas were identified from literature but were consolidated to nineteen at the end of data collection and analysis. The capability areas covered how properties are used and managed as well as the actual fabric and design of business premises/properties. The capability areas included awareness and understanding of flood risk to property, review for a flood resilience scheme, product acquisition for flood risk management, dynamic stakeholder identification and strong network, maintenance and post-flood management scheme, physical characteristics of the property and business data management. Professionals and business organisations can use the outcome of this study as a guide for business premises flood resilience enhancement planning and decision making.
Assessment of Genetic Diversity of Bread Wheat Genotypes for Drought Tolerance Using Canopy Reflectance-Based Phenotyping and SSR Marker-Based Genotyping
Authors: Mohi-Ud-Din Mohammed , Hossain Md. Alamgir , Rohman Md. Motiar , Uddin Md. Nesar , Haque Md. Sabibul , Dessoky Eldessoky S. , Alqurashi Mohammed , Aloufi Salman
Published: August 2022

This study investigated the genetic diversity of bread-wheat genotypes using canopy reflectance-based vegetation indices (VIs) and simple sequence repeat (SSR) marker-based genotyping for drought tolerance. A total of 56 wheat genotypes were assessed using phenotypic traits (combination of VIs and yield traits) and 30 SSR markers. The data of the phenotypic traits were averaged over two growing seasons under irrigated and drought-stressed conditions. The hierarchical clustering of the wheat genotypes unveiled three drought-tolerant groups. Cluster 1 genotypes showed minimal phenotypic alterations, conferring superior drought tolerance and yield stability than clusters 2 and 3. The polymorphism information content values for the SSR markers ranged from 0.434 to 0.932, averaging 0.83. A total of 458 alleles (18.32 alleles per locus) were detected, with the most polymorphic markers, wmc177 and wms292, having the most alleles (24). A comparative study of SSR diversity among phenotypic clusters indicated that genotypes under cluster 1 had higher genetic diversity (0.879) and unique alleles (47%), suggesting their potential in future breeding programs. The unweighted neighbor-joining tree grouped the wheat genotypes into five major clusters. Wheat genotypes from all phenotypic clusters were distributed throughout all SSR-based clusters, indicating that genetically heterogeneous genotypes were allocated to different drought-tolerant groups. However, SSR-based clusters and model-based populations showed significant co-linearity (86.7%). The findings of the present study suggest that combining reflectance-based indirect phenotyping with SSR-based genotyping might be an effective technique for assessing genetic diversity to improve the drought tolerance of bread-wheat genotypes.
A Game-Theory-Based Interaction Mechanism between Central and Local Governments on Financing Model Selection in China
Authors: Xie Fusheng , Hang Lei
Published: August 2022

Local financing platforms and (public–private partnerships) PPPs have received extensive attention, but there are few studies on the interaction mechanism of financing model selection. This paper presents a game-theory-based interaction mechanism of local financing platforms and a PPP model based on the government heterogeneity objective function. The study results found that the central government’s tolerance of local governments participating directly in municipal projects with financing platforms or PPP models mainly depends on land price premiums. When the premium is small, the collusion between local governments and financing platforms does not violate the objectives of the central government. Then, local and central governments prefer financing platforms to participate directly in municipal projects. In contrast, the local government prefers the financing platform model when the premium is significant. The central government no longer tolerates the financing platform model and prefers to complete municipal projects with the PPP model. This study believes that promoting the PPP model is a critical way to moderately resolve the debt risk of local government financing platforms and reduce the financial pressure on local governments.