bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cloaking of Equilateral Triangle Patch Antennas and Antenna Arrays with Planar Coated Metasurfaces
Authors: Pawar Shefali , Skinner Harry , Suh Seong-Youp , Yakovlev Alexander
Published: June 2023

We have proposed an effective metasurface design to accomplish the cloaking of equilateral patch antennas and their array configuration. As such, we have exploited the concept of electromagnetic invisibility, employing the mantle cloaking technique with the intention to eliminate the destructive interference ensuing between two distinct triangular patches situated in a very congested arrangement (sub-wavelength separation is maintained between the patch elements). Based on the numerous simulation results, we demonstrate that the implementation of the planar coated metasurface cloaks onto the patch antenna surfaces compels them to become invisible to each other, at the intended frequencies. In effect, an individual antenna element does not sense the presence of the other, in spite of being in a rather close vicinity. We also exhibit that the cloaks successfully reinstate the radiation attributes of each antenna in such a way that it emulates its respective performance in an isolated environment. Moreover, we have extended the cloak design to an interleaved one-dimensional array of the two patch antennas, and it is shown that the coated metasurfaces assure the efficient performance of each array in terms of their matching as well as radiation characteristics, which in turn, enables them to radiate independently for various beam-scanning angles.
Enhancing Security and Privacy in Healthcare Systems Using a Lightweight RFID Protocol
Authors: Khan Muhammad Ayaz , Ullah Subhan , Ahmad Tahir , Jawad Khwaja , Buriro Attaullah
Published: June 2023

Exploiting Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in healthcare systems has become a common practice, as it ensures better patient care and safety. However, these systems are prone to security vulnerabilities that can jeopardize patient privacy and the secure management of patient credentials. This paper aims to advance state-of-the-art approaches by developing more secure and private RFID-based healthcare systems. More specifically, we propose a lightweight RFID protocol that safeguards patients’ privacy in the Internet of Healthcare Things (IoHT) domain by utilizing pseudonyms instead of real IDs, thereby ensuring secure communication between tags and readers. The proposed protocol has undergone rigorous testing and has been proven to be secure against various security attacks. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how RFID technology is used in healthcare systems and benchmarks the challenges faced by these systems. Then, it reviews the existing RFID authentication protocols proposed for IoT-based healthcare systems in terms of their strengths, challenges, and limitations. To overcome the limitations of existing approaches, we proposed a protocol that addresses the anonymity and traceability issues in existing schemes. Furthermore, we demonstrated that our proposed protocol had a lower computational cost than existing protocols and ensured better security. Finally, our proposed lightweight RFID protocol ensured strong security against known attacks and protected patient privacy using pseudonyms instead of real IDs.
Sensitivity-Tunable Terahertz Liquid/Gas Biosensor Based on Surface Plasmon Resonance with Dirac Semimetal
Authors: Ren Mengjiao , Ji Chengpeng , Tang Xueyan , Tian Haishan , Jiang Leyong , Dai Xiaoyu , Wu Xinghua , Xiang Yuanjiang
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we study the sensitivity-tunable terahertz (THz) liquid/gas biosensor in a coupling prism–three-dimensional Dirac semimetal (3D DSM) multilayer structure. The high sensitivity of the biosensor originates from the sharp reflected peak caused by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) mode. This structure achieves the tunability of sensitivity due to the fact that the reflectance could be modulated by the Fermi energy of 3D DSM. Besides, it is found that the sensitivity curve depends heavily on the structural parameters of 3D DSM. After parameter optimization, we obtained sensitivity over 100°/RIU for liquid biosensor. We believe this simple structure provides a reference idea for realizing high sensitivity and a tunable biosensor device.
The Retrieval and Effect of Core Parameters for Near-Field Inter-Body Coupling Communication
Authors: Zhang Xu , Song Yong , Zhou Ya , Li Maoyuan , Ren Wu , Ma Yizhu , Li Changxiang , Cao Yubo
Published: June 2023

The potential of the Internet of Body (IoB) to support healthcare systems in the future lies in its ability to enable proactive wellness screening through the early detection and prevention of diseases. One promising technology for facilitating IoB applications is near-field inter-body coupling communication (NF-IBCC), which features lower power consumption and higher data security when compared to conventional radio frequency (RF) communication. However, designing efficient transceivers requires a profound understanding of the channel characteristics of NF-IBCC, which remain unclear due to significant differences in the magnitude and passband characteristics of existing research. In response to this problem, this paper clarifies the physical mechanisms of the differences in the magnitude and passband characteristics of NF-IBCC channel characteristics in existing research work through the core parameters that determine the gain of the NF-IBCC system. The core parameters of NF-IBCC are extracted through the combination of transfer functions, finite element simulations, and physical experiments. The core parameters include the inter-body coupling capacitance (CH), the load impedance (ZL), and the capacitance (Cair), coupled by two floating transceiver grounds. The results illustrate that CH, and particularly Cair, primarily determine the gain magnitude. Moreover, ZL mainly determines the passband characteristics of the NF-IBCC system gain. Based on these findings, we propose a simplified equivalent circuit model containing only core parameters, which can accurately capture the gain characteristics of the NF-IBCC system and help to concisely describe the channel characteristics of the system. This work lays a theoretical foundation for developing efficient and reliable NF-IBCC systems that can support IoB for early disease detection and prevention in healthcare applications. The potential benefits of IoB and NF-IBCC technology can, thus, be fully realized by developing optimized transceiver designs based on a comprehensive understanding of the channel characteristics.
Research on Dust Effect for MEMS Thermal Wind Sensors
Authors: Yi Zhenxiang , Wang Yishan , Qin Ming , Huang Qingan
Published: June 2023

This communication investigated the dust effect on microelectromechanical system (MEMS) thermal wind sensors, with an aim to evaluate performance in practical applications. An equivalent circuit was established to analyze the temperature gradient influenced by dust accumulation on the sensor’s surface. The finite element method (FEM) simulation was carried out to verify the proposed model using COMSOL Multiphysics software. In experiments, dust was accumulated on the sensor’s surface by two different methods. The measured results indicated that the output voltage for the sensor with dust on its surface was a little smaller than that of the sensor without dust at the same wind speed, which can degrade the measurement sensitivity and accuracy. Compared to the sensor without dust, the average voltage was reduced by about 1.91% and 3.75% when the dustiness was 0.04 g/mL and 0.12 g/mL, respectively. The results can provide a reference for the actual application of thermal wind sensors in harsh environments.
Beyond the Power of Audio in Native Transmedia Storytelling: Synergies between Fiction and Reality
Authors: Agirreazkuenaga Irati , Ayllon Mikel
Published: June 2023

This paper analyses a transmedia universe featuring a web series revolving around interpersonal relations and gender issues, which was then expanded using a musical podcast and a live concert. The project aims to discover production and narrative development strategies that define a native transmedia production, and how it might be expanded to build stories around complex and multidimensional contemporary themes. An analysis model is proposed to identify the fundamental structural characteristics of the transmedia universe. The research is initially powered by a qualitative approach to ethnographic fieldwork by means of participant observation, and subsequently, the analysis of the interrelationship between the elements that make up the transmedia system. The results show the planning behind constructing transmedia storytelling that intertwines fiction and reality to assist in understanding complex and multidimensional topics such as gender identity or intergenerational relations. The conclusions show that the type of transmedia construction being presented and the position of the audio in that universe is motivated by reinforcing the creation of content that is covered in fiction, but with particular relevance in the real world.
Black and Indigenous Solidarity in Social Sciences: Leaning into Our Nuanced Racialized Identities and Healing Together
Authors: Stewart Nathaniel D. , Thompson Lauren
Published: June 2023

Our co-authored piece contributes to Black and Indigenous solidarity juxtaposed to our nuanced and convergent lived experiences as racialized people. Lauren and I (Nate)co-explore how our racialized identities and stories may complexify Black-and-Indigenous-led movements. We say “racialized” to acknowledge white supremacists’ racecraft to subjugate Black and Indigenous people. Lauren, an Indigenous educator activist, and I, a Black scholar activist, both with white maternal lineage, connected after storying about our journeys to, through, and beyond the teaching profession. Black and Indigenous educators have centered theories of we are not free until we are all free. Our knowledge contributions further complexify freedom-for-all by offering Black and Indigenous knowledge on nuanced ancestry within the U.S. racialization project. Conversational data stemmed from an educator activist collective project where Lauren and I had many conversations about our similar and unique journeys toward our justice orientation. Our conversations yielded many Black and Indigenous solidarity learnings. These co-learnings included: building solidarity through weaving our unique stories, extending nuanced understandings of racialized experiences, and co-regulation in societal spaces not made for us. We conclude with implications in continuing to build solidarity in social science.
Clustering Analysis of Multilayer Complex Network of Nanjing Metro Based on Traffic Line and Passenger Flow Big Data
Authors: Li Ming , Yu Wei , Zhang Jun
Published: June 2023

Complex networks in reality are not just single-layer networks. The connection of nodes in an urban metro network includes two kinds of connections: line and passenger flow. In fact, it is a multilayer network. The line network constructed by the Space L model based on a complex network reflects the geographical proximity of stations, which is an undirected and weightless network. The passenger flow network constructed with smart card big data reflects the passenger flow relationship between stations, which is a directed weighted network. The construction of a line-flow multilayer network can reflect the actual situation of metro traffic passenger flow, and the node clustering coefficient can measure the passenger flow clustering effect of the station on adjacent stations. Combined with the situation of subway lines in Nanjing and card-swiping big data, this research constructs the line network with the Space L model and the passenger flow network with smart card big data, and uses these two networks to construct the multilayer network of line flow. This research improves the calculation method of the clustering coefficient of weighted networks, proposes the concept of node group, distinguishes the inflow and outflow, and successively calculates the clustering coefficient of nodes and the whole network in the multilayer network. The degree of passenger flow activity in the network thermal diagram is used to represent the passenger flow activity of the line-flow network. This method can be used to evaluate the clustering effect of metro stations and identify the business districts in the metro network, so as to improve the level of intelligent transportation management and provide a theoretical basis for transportation construction and business planning.
Pollen and Flora as Bioindicators in Assessing the Status of Polluted Sites: The Case Study of the Mantua Lakes (SIN “Laghi di Mantova e Polo Chimico”; N Italy)
Authors: Braga Lorenzo , Furia Elisa , Buldrini Fabrizio , Mercuri Anna Maria
Published: June 2023

An integrated floristic and palynological approach was carried out at the site of national interest “Laghi di Mantova e Polo Chimico” to obtain an environmental assessment useful for monitoring polluted sites. The flora of highly contaminated sectors (area A and area B) was surveyed, and the floristic composition and ecological strategies of the species were compared with a control sector (area C). A total of 195 species were observed in the three sectors. Pollen preservation of six selected species was checked as a bioindicator of environmental health in the same sectors. Area A and area B likely share similar environmental pressures, including anthropogenic stressors such as pollution, geographical proximity and a similar set of habitats, leading to similarities in flora composition. Similarly, the incidence of pollen without cytoplasm is higher in area A (9.3%) and area B (7.6%) than in area C (2.5%). The floristic differences among the sectors and the quantity of empty or abnormal pollen, together with the CSR strategies adopted by the species, suggest that the effects of anthropogenic impact on local vegetation can be detected at both macroscopic and microscopic levels. The discovery of the protected species Narcissus pseudonarcissus in area C is noteworthy, which may be important in directing efforts towards the protection of plant communities in this sector.
The Formation of Reputation in CSR Disclosure: The Role of Signal Transmission and Sensemaking Processes of Stakeholders
Authors: Xu Ruiqian , Liu Jinchen , Yang Dongning
Published: June 2023

A growing number of companies are issuing corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports to publicize their commitment to sustainable development. However, skepticism remains among stakeholders about firms’ CSR information, which could hinder the success of worldwide CSR campaigns. Our paper examines mechanisms of how CSR disclosure resonates with stakeholders and influences their attitudes towards firms. Extending the current knowledge of CSR signaling effects, this paper provides a framework illustrating the interplay between CSR signaling properties and readers’ sensemaking processes, thereby predicting how corporate reputation is shaped through CSR communication. In order to test our theoretical hypotheses, a survey was conducted on 53 firms with 1521 respondents. The results show that the better the readers’ comprehension of a CSR report is, the stronger the signals of authenticity and corporate social performance (CSP) they perceive, the better the report value and value fit are recognized, and eventually, the more trust they hold for the firm. The relationship between comprehension of CSR reports and trust is partially mediated by the signaling-sensemaking process. Our research contributes to the literature on micro-foundations of strategic CSR by applying signaling theory in the context of CSR disclosure. The research findings have practical implications for firms’ CSR disclosure strategies.
Impact of Biomass Ratio as a Synthetic Parameter in Soft Computing Approaches for a Decision-Making Tool for Biogas Plants in Urban Areas
Authors: Pracucci Alessandro , Zaffagnini Theo
Published: June 2023

The EU’s energy transition strategy highlights the significance of developing innovative energy models to encourage the utilization of renewable energy sources in urban areas. Utilizing local urban biomasses, including food waste, sewage, and green waste, can contribute to the establishment of energy systems that harness bio-waste for energy generation, thereby promoting circular economy principles and urban metabolisms. This paper proposes using a pre-design tool (based on soft computing approaches) that incorporates an initial analysis of the multidisciplinary feasibility of such systems as an effective strategy and valuable support for preliminary studies. It focuses on validating three “biomass ratio” parameters, integrating urban morphology and district characteristics with the amount of bio-waste in a peri-urban district comprising multifamily buildings. These parameters can be incorporated into a pre-design tool that facilitates multi-criteria decision analyses, aiding the design of innovative models that promote renewable energy sources in urban areas. The findings suggest that synthetic parameters can guide initial considerations, but they may overestimate the energy potential and should be further investigated. Hence, future research should explore complementary strategies for estimating biomass energy potential and extend the application of this methodology to other types of districts.
Education, Online Presence and Cybersecurity Implications: A Study of Information Security Practices of Computing Students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Saeed Saqib
Published: June 2023

Information technology is considered as a key enabler to achieve “education for all” as a sustainable development goal; however, involvement in the education sector has introduced security risks along with benefits. Students’ exposure to the internet has increased the probability of cybersecurity attacks. To foster a more sustainable use of technology, it is crucial that students are made aware of information security risks and can keep themselves protected in the online sphere. In this paper, we present the results of a cross-sectional study that explores information-security awareness among students in Saudi Arabia. Empirical data were collected using an online questionnaire and a factor analysis was conducted using partial least-squares structured equation modelling. Based on the existing literature, we focused on four key constructs: password management, infrastructure management, email management, and the perception of security. The results of this study have highlighted that email management and infrastructure management were seen as relevant factors, whereas password management and the perception of security were not considered relevant factors by the respondents. We have also chalked out recommendations to improve cybersecurity awareness among students. The findings of this study will potentially help educational institutions and parents to prepare students in adopting security practices while they are online.
Measuring the Perceived Heterogeneity of Cultural Ecosystem Services in National Cultural Parks: Evidence from China
Authors: Huang Wei , Lu Shizhu , Guo Yuqing
Published: June 2023

National cultural parks are a new form of tourism in China. These parks focus on cultural heritage. Many studies have examined the cultural ecosystem services (CESs) that parks provide from visitors’ perspectives. However, there needs to be more research on the perceived heterogeneity of CESs among different social groups, especially residents, and the relationship between the supply and demand of CESs. This study uses visitor-employed photographs to reveal the landscape features offered by national cultural parks. This study also analyses the relationship between landscape elements in national cultural parks and CESs, as well as the heterogeneity of users’ perceptions of CESs. The results show that the resident group and visitor group agree on the importance of a sense of place in national cultural parks. However, there are differences between the two groups regarding their perceptions of inspiration, recreation, cultural heritage, and social relations in the parks. Residents are most concerned with the parks’ sense of place and social relations. In contrast, visitors are more interested in inspiration, recreation, heritage, and a sense of place. This study highlights the different needs of residents and visitors from the CESs provided by national cultural parks. It also provides insights for the landscape planning and ecotourism management of cultural heritage-type parks.
Industrial and Environmental Disaster Risk Assessment for Hazardous Materials in Balikpapan City, East Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Lestari Fatma , Setyowati Dina Lusiana , Muzanni Adonis , Kadir Abdul , Zainal Isradi , Adolf Liku James Evert , Zulfikar Anisa Kusumadewi , Sari Iin Pratama , Mulya Widya , Yuliana Lina , Zulfikar Iwan , Rusba Komeyni , Nurmayanti Irma , Susanti Ira Tri , Sakina Citra , Yusvalina Herti Ayu , Adiwibowo Andrio , Ramadhan Noor Aulia , Andani Saraswati , Wardani Wulan Kusuma , Kholis Noer , Pradipta Eka , Cruz Ana Maria
Published: June 2023

Industrial disasters may cause massive public health problems, as they create large environmental damage and major loss of life. Balikpapan City has experienced a large oil spill which caused an industrial and environmental disaster: five fishermen died, various public health problems arose, and damage to environmental wildlife and ecosystems occurred. The objective of this study was to evaluate the industrial and environmental disaster risk related to hazardous material (hazmat) in Balikpapan. The research method involved the use of a semi-quantitative risk analysis with an originally organized checklist, a risk matrix, and a Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis. The results suggested that the risk score in Balikpapan’s City is 32 (MEDIUM; the dominant types of hazmat were flammables and corrosives). The major sectors contributing to the risk appeared to be the mining, energy, and oil and gas industries, with a medium risk (average risk score 33), while one clean water industry showed a low risk (risk score 24) using the checklist and risk matrix. According to the results from the GIS mapping, the areas t the highest risks appeared to be located within Balikpapan City coastal regions. The industries and the government of Balikpapan must be prepared for industrial and environmental disasters by educating competent major hazmat responders and ensuring a large spills response equipment, extensive environmental monitoring and measurement, procedures to deal with major fire and explosions and adequate disaster communication and coordination.
Measurement of Urban Green Total Factor Productivity and Analysis of Its Temporal and Spatial Evolution in China
Authors: Zhou Ruomeng , Zhang Yunsheng
Published: June 2023

This paper uses the Super SBM-DEA model and GML index method with undesirable output indicators to measure GTFP in 288 cities in China. Furthermore, we divide Chinese land into east, central, west, and northeast parts, and analyze their temporal and spatial evolution trends. It is shown that, firstly, China’s overall GTFP shows an upward fluctuating trend, in which green technical efficiency contributes more to the improvement of GTFP in Chinese cities, while green technological progress contributes less. Secondly, the urban GTFP in the eastern, central, western, and northeastern regions shows obvious differences, with the source of GTFP growth in the eastern region being mainly green technological progress, the source of growth in the central region being green efficiency improvement in the early stage and green technological progress in the later stage, while the source of growth in the western and northeastern regions is green efficiency improvement. Finally, combined with spatial distribution characteristic maps and kernel density estimation, GTFP shows spatial disequilibrium characteristics in China.
Ecodesign for Industrial Furnaces and Ovens: A Review of the Current Environmental Legislation
Authors: Bourtsalas Athanasios C. (Thanos) , Papadatos Petros E. , Kiskira Kyriaki , Kalkanis Konstantinos , Psomopoulos Constantinos S.
Published: June 2023

The increasing global demand for energy- and resource-efficient, environmentally friendly products has led the European Union (EU) to develop a sustainable product policy, incorporating ecodesign legislation and energy labeling as effective tools for promoting energy efficiency and sustainability. Recent European energy policies, such as the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) and the Ecodesign Directive (EDD), have set new objectives for enhancing energy efficiency. This study focuses on the 2012 Lot 4: Industrial and Laboratory Furnaces and Ovens, Tasks 1–7 Final Report, which informed the European Commission’s 2014 working document for the Ecodesign Consultation Forum on industrial and laboratory furnaces and ovens. The working document proposed initial draft measures and requirements for this product group, aiming to achieve specific energy savings and related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions. The findings of the investigations on energy consumption and GHG emissions are presented in this work, with draft calculations and projections serving as the foundation for discussions on future measures. The BAT (best available technologies) scenario would result in lower environmental impacts. The initial and indicative draft Lot 4 impact assessment predictions for energy savings demonstrate the positive influence of prospective ecodesign measures in reducing energy consumption. These deliberations will ultimately contribute to the formulation of an official mandatory regulation for industrial and laboratory furnaces and ovens, in line with the EU’s sustainable product policy objectives.
The Effect of Workplace Friendship on Hotel Employees’ Intention to Leave: Moderating Role of Psychological Contract Violation
Authors: Wu Shao-Chuan , Chen Yuan-Chiu , Zhuang Wen-Long
Published: June 2023

Sustainability is a universal value of running a business. This study examines the influence of workplace friendships among hotel staff on their intention to leave, while considering the moderating effect of psychological contract violation. The sample group of the questionnaire is the employees in the five-star hotels in Taiwan. This study employs the purposive sampling method to collect questionnaires. For this research, 450 questionnaires were handed out to hotel staffs, with 150 questionnaires distributed, respectively, in Northern, Central, and Southern Taiwan. A total of 368 valid questionnaires were collected, resulting in an effective response rate of 81.78%. The results indicate that: (1) Friendship opportunities and friendship prevalence can significantly decrease workers’ intention to leave their jobs; (2) Psychological contract violation moderates the negative influence of friendship opportunity/friendship prevalence on one’s intention to leave. Finally, the paper proposes theoretical implications, practical implications and future research directions in accordance with the findings.
Development Goals towards Sustainability
Authors: Ali Syed Mithun , Appolloni Andrea , Cavallaro Fausto , D’Adamo Idiano , Di Vaio Assunta , Ferella Francesco , Gastaldi Massimo , Ikram Muhammad , Kumar Nallapaneni Manoj , Martin Michael Alan , Nizami Abdul-Sattar , Ozturk Ilhan , Riccardi Maria Pia , Rosa Paolo , Santibanez Gonzalez Ernesto , Sassanelli Claudio , Settembre-Blundo Davide , Singh Rajesh Kumar , Smol Marzena , Tsalidis Georgios Archimidis , Voukkali Irene , Yang Nan , Zorpas Antonis A.
Published: June 2023

Sustainability’s growth, year after year, continues to be staggering, becoming a reference point for those working on these issues [...]
Study on the Distribution Trend of Rockburst and Ground Stress in the Hegang Mining Area
Authors: Pang Jiewen , Xie Jianlin , He Yongliang , Han Qiaoyun , Hao Yongjiang
Published: June 2023

As the depth of coal mining increases, rockbursts become more severe, and multiple rockburst accidents have previously occurred, seriously affecting coal mine production safety. With the Hegang mining area as the research object and using field measurement and numerical simulation as the research methods, the geological and tectonic characteristics of each impact mine in the Hegang mining area are analyzed to obtain the tectonic stress field distribution characteristics of each mine and the tectonic stress field distribution trend in the Hegang mining area. The maximum horizontal principal stress and the minimum horizontal principal stress on the energy field in the overrun area of the retrieval working face is analyzed via numerical simulation, and the influence trend of the ground stress on the impact ground pressure is finally obtained. Results show that using the typical working face where rockburst occurs as the geological proto-type, the influence of the direction of the ground stress field, the maximum horizontal principal stress and the minimum horizontal principal stress on the energy field in the overrun area of the retrieval working face is analyzed via numerical simulation, and the influence trend of the ground stress on the impact ground pressure is finally obtained. When the angle is 70°~90°, an energy peak in the overrun area of the working face reaches its maximum. The ratio of the minimum horizontal stress to the vertical stress is positively correlated with the energy concentration in the overrun area of the working face, but its change has a minimal effect on the energy distribution in the overrun area of the working face. When this ratio is increased from 0.6 to 1.4, the peak energy of the simulated working face only increases by 8.22%, and the energy concentration area remains basically unchanged.
Comparative Study of a Fixed-Focus Fresnel Lens Solar Concentrator/Conical Cavity Receiver System with and without Glass Cover Installed in a Solar Cooker
Authors: Wang Hai
Published: June 2023

The glass cover is often situated at the aperture of a cavity receiver in concentrating collectors to reduce heat dissipation. However, the decrease in optical efficiency due to the reflection loss on the surface of the glass cover will directly reduce the thermal efficiency of a collector, especially for a fixed-focus solar concentrator, whose optical axis is generally not coincident with the central axis of the receiver. To fundamentally evaluate the effect of a glass cover on the efficiency of a fixed-focus Fresnel lens solar concentrator/conical cavity receiver system, its performances with and without a glass cover considered under different incidence angles were comparatively investigated. To obtain the optical performance, optical models of the system were first built with TracePro® 7.0 software. An experimental setup was then constructed to test the thermal performance of the system. The results show that the optical efficiency of a system without a glass cover is much higher than that with a glass cover. The difference between them remains unchanged for incidence angle at a range of 0–20°. The time constant of the system with a glass cover is much less than that without a glass cover, in the ranges of 29–33 s and 48–59 s, respectively. The system with a glass cover for a wide range of higher temperature differences also has better thermal efficiency.
Encapsulant Materials and Their Adoption in Photovoltaic Modules: A Brief Review
Authors: Dintcheva Nadka Tz. , Morici Elisabetta , Colletti Claudio
Published: June 2023

In the last two decades, the continuous, ever-growing demand for energy has driven significant development in the production of photovoltaic (PV) modules. A critical issue in the module design process is the adoption of suitable encapsulant materials and technologies for cell embedding. Adopted encapsulants have a significant impact on module efficiency, stability, and reliability. In addition, to ensure the unchanged performance of PV modules in time, the encapsulant materials must be selected properly. The selection of encapsulant materials must maintain a good balance between the encapsulant performance in time and costs, related to materials production and technologies for cells embedding. However, the encapsulants must ensure excellent isolation of active photovoltaic elements from the environment, preserving the PV cells against humidity, oxygen, and accidental damage that may compromise the PV module’s function. This review provides an overview of different encapsulant materials, their main advantages and disadvantages in adoption for PV production, and, in relation to encapsulant technologies used for cell embedding, additives and the interaction of these materials with other PV components.
Exposure Concentrations and Inhalation Risk of Submicron Particles in a Gasoline Station—A Pilot Study
Authors: Gao Xiangjing , Wang Peng , Hu Yong , Cao Yiyao , Yuan Weiming , Luan Yuqing , Quan Changjian , Zhou Zhen , Zou Hua
Published: June 2023

Gasoline is a globally used primary fuel. The submicron particles at gasoline stations have not been extensively investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the exposure concentrations and inhalation risk of submicron particles at a gasoline station. Temporal variations in particle concentrations and size distributions were measured using a real-time system. The effective doses of submicron particles deposited in different organs were analyzed using a computational fluid dynamics model and the value of environmental monitoring (including the size distributions of particles by number). The number concentration (NC) was higher during working hours than that of the background. Submicron particles gathered predominantly at 30.5 nm and 89.8 nm during working time. The effective doses of submicron particles deposited in the olfactory system and lungs were 0.131 × 10−3 and 0.014 mg, respectively, of which 0.026 × 10−3 mg potentially reached the brain. In a female worker with 3 years of exposure, the average daily effective doses in the olfactory system, lungs, and brain were 2.19 × 10−7 mg/kg·d−1, 2.34 × 10−5 mg/kg·d−1, and 4.35 × 10−8 mg/kg·d−1, respectively. These findings indicated that workers at this gasoline station had a high inhalation risk of submicron particles. This study provides baseline data on submicron particles at gasoline stations and a critical basis for investigating disease risk in longitudinal epidemiological studies.
Study on the Influence of Foundation Pit Excavation on the Deformation of Adjacent Subway Tunnel in the Affected Area of Fault Zones
Authors: Niu Yungang , Wang Qiongyi , Ma Fenghai
Published: June 2023

In order to understand and mitigate the deformation issues caused by the excavation of foundation pits within the influence area of fault zones, ensuring the safety of the subway system and supporting the sustainable development of the city, this paper takes the foundation pit project near the Shenzhen Metro Line 5 in the F1322 fault zone influence area as the research background, and uses theoretical analysis, numerical simulation and on-site measurement and other research methods to carry out in-depth research on the deformation problems of the adjacent subway tunnel caused by the unloading of the foundation pit excavation. The research results demonstrate that by considering the collaborative deformation effect between retaining piles and excavation sidewall soil under the spatial impact of foundation pit excavation and using the Mindlin solution to calculate the additional stress on the sidewall and bottom of the foundation pit, a deformation calculation formula for the tunnel has been established. The impact characteristics of different geological parameter variations on the horizontal and vertical displacements of the tunnel have been analyzed. The sensitivity analysis of maximum tunnel displacement to different geological parameters reveals that the most sensitive factor is the elastic modulus, followed by the internal friction angle, while the cohesion has the least influence. By fitting the data, it has been found that the maximum deformation of the tunnel under composite strata excavation exhibits a good linear relationship with the index bH/L and a prediction formula for the maximum tunnel deformation under this geological condition has been developed. Therefore, the research findings of this study can be utilized to assess the impact of foundation pit excavation on the deformation of subway tunnels under similar geological conditions. They can also be employed to formulate construction monitoring plans and risk management strategies, contributing to the safety of subway systems and the sustainable development of cities.
Eco-Efficiency, Environmental and Sustainable Innovation in Recycling Energy and Their Effect on Business Performance: Evidence from European SMEs
Authors: Majid Sara , Zhang Xin , Khaskheli Muhammad Bilawal , Hong Feng , King Patricia Jie Hung , Shamsi Imran Haider
Published: June 2023

This paper examines the influence of adopting resource efficiency actions, saving water, saving energy, using renewable energy, saving materials, minimizing waste, selling scrap, recycling, using durable products, promoting environmental responsibility, and offering green marketing products and services on the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). More specifically, we investigate specific resource efficiency actions and their impact on production costs, investment, the available support for product expansion, and the effect of encountered barriers on SME performance. We develop a theoretical framework based on stakeholder- and resource-based theories to serve as the foundation for this analysis. We use these theories to explain the link between eco-efficiency actions, firm performance, and ecological behavior, along with public policy and innovation. This study uses Flash Eurobarometer survey datasets FL342, FL381, FL426, and FL456, which cover SMEs across time and sectors in 28 EU countries. The data are analyzed through descriptive and ordered logit regression analysis, using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) to test the relationship between the above variables and the parameters. In terms of practical implications, these findings are crucial in helping SMEs pursue sustainable development. According to the findings, SMEs lack information on how implementing eco-efficiency action affects their financial health and sustainable innovation. This study can provide valuable insights into how implementing eco-efficiency practices can positively impact a company’s bottom line, good health, and employees’ well-being and how SMEs can use this information to make more informed decisions. Additionally, the findings can help inform policy makers about how to better support SMEs in pursuing sustainable development.
Challenges for the Adoption of Electric Vehicles in Thailand: Potential Impacts, Barriers, and Public Policy Recommendations
Authors: Preedakorn Kantapich , Butler David , Mehnen Jörn
Published: June 2023

The impacts of electric vehicles (EVs) to the current transportation and logistics system are an emerging topic that has recently garnered public interest in many countries. Several developing countries that rely on the large amount of production in automobiles manufacturing are preparing to adopt national strategies to mitigate the negative impacts from the shift toward electric vehicles. In addition, the restructuring of the transportation system and traffic regulations to prepare for the integration of electric vehicles into the current transportation model is also an important concern for policy-makers. The study of potential impacts and barriers regarding the adoption of EVs would provide better insights that could aid the implementation of public policy. The topics that will be discussed here are both from technological standpoints such as differences in the general properties of EVs in comparison to internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs), and social and environmental standpoints which are predicted to be pivotal drivers for their adoption. These features are collectively analyzed to aid the relating implementation of industrial, transportation, and environmental public policies. Moreover, additional policy recommendations for the situation in Thailand are proposed based on this discussion. It is concluded that extensive public policy framework for the adoption of EVs and the development of EVs manufacturing industry is essential for developing countries with less technological readiness to effectively integrate this new type of vehicular technology into its industrial and transportation economy.
Study of the Effect of Rescuers and the Use of a Massive Alarm in a Population in a Disaster Situation
Authors: Verdière Nathalie , Dubos-Paillard Edwige , Lanza Valentina , Provitolo Damienne , Charrier Rodolphe , Bertelle Cyrille , Berred Alexandre , Tricot Anne , Aziz-Alaoui Moulay
Published: June 2023

Faced with an ongoing or imminent danger, crisis managers must do their utmost to protect the exposed population and limit the extent of the disaster. More than during the pre- and post-disaster phases, time is of the essence. This temporal specificity of the disaster is essential compared to the risk. It requires a perfect coordination and a quick response in a context of uncertainty. It is important to intervene rapidly on the scene of the disaster while ensuring there are enough first responders. Crisis managers must also quickly alert the population at risk in order to favor the adoption of protective behaviors and limit inappropriate reactions, panic phenomena, and the spread of rumors. In France, in the event of a danger affecting the population, the intervention of law enforcement and emergency services is relatively rapid, even though there may be differences depending on the territories (urban or rural). On the contrary, the triggering of the alert by institutional actors (the mayor or the prefect, depending on the extent of the disaster) must follow a strict procedure that imposes longer delays and may limit or even neutralize its effectiveness. This article proposes a theoretical reflection on the effectiveness of these two types of intervention (relief and warning) with affected populations in the case of rapid kinetic or unpredictable events affecting people with a low risk culture. This reflection is based on the mathematical model “alert, panic, control” (APC) inspired by models used in epidemiology. It enables the modeling of behavior dynamics by distinguishing control and panic behaviors resulting from the difficulty or incapacity to regulate emotions. Several scenarios are proposed to identify the phases during which these two kinds of intervention have an optimal effect on the population by limiting panic phenomena.
Impact of Delay on Stochastic Predator–Prey Models
Authors: Moujahid Abdelmalik , Vadillo Fernando
Published: June 2023

Ordinary differential equations (ODE) have long been an important tool for modelling and understanding the dynamics of many real systems. However, mathematical modelling in several areas of the life sciences requires the use of time-delayed differential models (DDEs). The time delays in these models refer to the time required for the manifestation of certain hidden processes, such as the time between the onset of cell infection and the production of new viruses (incubation periods), the infection period, or the immune period. Since real biological systems are always subject to perturbations that are not fully understood or cannot be explicitly modeled, stochastic delay differential systems (SDDEs) provide a more realistic approximation to these models. In this work, we study the predator–prey system considering three time-delay models: one deterministic and two types of stochastic models. Our numerical results allow us to distinguish between different asymptotic behaviours depending on whether the system is deterministic or stochastic, and in particular, when considering stochasticity, we see that both the nature of the stochastic systems and the magnitude of the delay play a crucial role in determining the dynamics of the system.
Analysis of Consolidation by Vertical Drain with Vacuum Preloading Based on Axisymmetric Biot’s Consolidation Theory
Authors: Pan Xiaodong , Zhu Haijun , Zheng Huailin , Sun Honglei , Geng Xueyu
Published: June 2023

A model of consolidation for a single-drain well under vacuum preloading, based on Biot’s axisymmetric theory and considering the “real strain” hypothesis, was established using the finite element method. Degenerating the consolidation equation of real strain yielded the Barron’s classical free strain and equal strain equations. The free strain and equal strain finite element models were derived by imposing boundary and constraint conditions on the real strain FEM model. The validation of the simulation process confirmed that the numerical model achieved consistent outcomes, with the theoretical values postulating its effectiveness. The real strain model revealed the Mandel–Cryer effect of soil near the vertical drain during the initial vacuum preloading consolidation process, causing the effective stress to increase more than the effective stress generated by the vacuum pressure and leading to a greater reduction in the void ratio. This phenomenon is one of the reasons for clogging during the vacuum preloading process. However, the free strain and equal strain models cannot produce this effect because they cannot describe the coupling between soil deformation and fluid flow. The parameter analysis of the real strain model showed that as Poisson’s ratio for soil decreased, the consolidation rate of soil also decreased, while the Mandel–Cryer effect of soil increased.
Development of an Online Genome Sequence Comparison Resource for Bacillus cereus sensu lato Strains Using the Efficient Composition Vector Method
Authors: Wang Kui , Shu Changlong , Bravo Alejandra , Soberón Mario , Zhang Hongjun , Crickmore Neil , Zhang Jie
Published: June 2023

An automated method was developed for differentiating closely related B. cereus sensu lato (s.l.) species, especially biopesticide Bacillus thuringiensis, from other human pathogens, B. anthracis and B. cereus sensu stricto (s.s.). In the current research, four typing methods were initially compared, including multi-locus sequence typing (MLST), single-copy core genes phylogenetic analysis (SCCGPA), dispensable genes content pattern analysis (DGCPA) and composition vector tree (CVTree), to analyze the genomic variability of 23 B. thuringiensis strains from aizawai, kurstaki, israelensis, thuringiensis and morrisoni serovars. The CVTree method was the best option to be used for typing B. thuringiensis strains since it proved to be the fastest method, whilst giving high-resolution data about the strains. In addition, CVTree agrees well with ANI-based method, revealing the relationship between B. thuringiensis and other B. cereus s.l. species. Based on these data, an online genome sequence comparison resource was built for Bacillus strains called the Bacillus Typing Bioinformatics Database to facilitate strain identification and characterization.