bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ship Spatiotemporal Key Feature Point Online Extraction Based on AIS Multi-Sensor Data Using an Improved Sliding Window Algorithm
Authors: Gao Miao , Shi Guo-You
Published: June 2019

Large volumes of automatic identification system (AIS) data provide new ideas and methods for ship data mining and navigation behavior pattern analysis. However, large volumes of big data have low unit values, resulting in the need for large-scale computing, storage, and display. Learning efficiency is low and learning direction is blind and untargeted. Therefore, key feature point (KFP) extraction from the ship trajectory plays an important role in fields such as ship navigation behavior analysis and big data mining. In this paper, we propose a ship spatiotemporal KFP online extraction algorithm that is applied to AIS trajectory data. The sliding window algorithm is modified for application to ship navigation angle deviation, position deviation, and the spatiotemporal characteristics of AIS data. Next, in order to facilitate the subsequent use of the algorithm, a recommended threshold range for the corresponding two parameters is discussed. Finally, the performance of the proposed method is compared with that of the Douglas–Peucker (DP) algorithm to assess its feature extraction accuracy and operational efficiency. The results show that the proposed improved sliding window algorithm can be applied to rapidly and easily extract the KFPs from AIS trajectory data. This ability provides significant benefits for ship traffic flow and navigational behavior learning.
Two-Stage Latent Dynamics Modeling and Filtering for Characterizing Individual Walking and Running Patterns with Smartphone Sensors
Authors: Kim Jaein , Lee Juwon , Jang Woongjin , Lee Seri , Kim Hongjoong , Park Jooyoung
Published: June 2019

Recently, data from built-in sensors in smartphones have been readily available, and analyzing data for various types of health information from smartphone users has become a popular health care application area. Among relevant issues in the area, one of the most prominent topics is analyzing the characteristics of human movements. In this paper, we focus on characterizing the human movements of walking and running based on a novel machine learning approach. Since walking and running are human fundamental activities, analyzing their characteristics promptly and automatically during daily smartphone use is particularly valuable. In this paper, we propose a machine learning approach, referred to as ’two-stage latent dynamics modeling and filtering’ (TS-LDMF) method, where we combine a latent space modeling stage with a nonlinear filtering stage, for characterizing individual dynamic walking and running patterns by analyzing smartphone sensor data. For the task of characterizing movements, the proposed method makes use of encoding the high-dimensional sequential data from movements into random variables in a low-dimensional latent space. The use of random variables in the latent space, often called latent variables, is particularly useful, because it is capable of conveying compressed information concerning movements and efficiently handling the uncertainty originating from high-dimensional sequential observation. Our experimental results show that the proposed use of two-stage latent dynamics modeling and filtering yields promising results for characterizing individual dynamic walking and running patterns.
Investigation of Polyurethane Matrix Membranes for Salivary Nitrate ISFETs to Prevent the Drift
Authors: Osaki Shuto , Kintoki Takuya , Moriuchi-Kawakami Takayo , Kitamura Kenichi , Wakida Shin-ichi
Published: June 2019

We have investigated human-stress monitoring by making use of salivary nitrate, which can be a candidate for stress markers, with ion-selective field-effect transistors (ISFETs). ISFETs are suitable for on-site single-drop analysis of salivary nitrate within 10 s. However, when ISFETs are used for salivary nitrate, ISFETs have a problem that is called the initial drift. The initial drift makes accurate nitrate monitoring difficult. Thus, the purpose of this study is to prevent the initial drift and to search for a new, simple polymer to possess a better performance of sensor responses than conventional matrix membranes, such as PVC. In this research, we investigated ISFETs using specific matrix membranes, for example KP-13, Pellethane®­­, and P7281-PU. The initial drift was evaluated from the fluctuations of the response values generated by the ISFETs when immersed in saliva or aqueous solution. As a result, P7281-PU showed a prevention effect on the initial drift, both in the whole saliva and in various solutions. Furthermore, the cause of drift may be H+ diffusion, and the drift prevention effect of P7281-PU may be affected by urethane bond capturing H+ in the ion-selective membrane. This result suggests that a continuous nitrate monitoring is feasible and may be applied to wearable sensors.
Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) Profiling Identifies Carbapenemase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Belonging to Clonal Complex 258
Authors: Rees Christiaan A. , Beccaria Marco , Franchina Flavio A. , Hill Jane E. , Purcaro Giorgia
Published: June 2019

Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is one of the most extensively antibiotic-resistant pathogens encountered in the clinical setting today. A few studies to-date suggest that CRKP and carbapenem-susceptible K. pneumoniae (CSKP) differ from one another not only with respect to their underlying genetics, but also their transcriptomic and metabolomic fingerprints. Within this context, we characterize the fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiles of these pathogens in vitro. Specifically, we evaluated the FAME profiles of six Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC)-producing isolates belonging to the CC258 lineage (KPC+/258+), six KPC-producing isolates belonging to non-CC258 lineages (KPC+/258−), and six non-KPC-producing isolates belonging to non-CC258 lineages (KPC−/258−). We utilized a single-step sample preparation method to simultaneously lyse bacterial cells and transesterify the lipid fraction, and identified 14 unique FAMEs using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The machine learning algorithm Random Forest identified four FAMEs that were highly discriminatory between CC258 and non-CC258 isolates (9(Z)-octadecenoate, 2-phenylacetate, pentadecanoate, and hexadecanoate), of which three were also significantly different in relative abundance between these two groups. These findings suggest that distinct differences exist between CC258 and non-CC258 K. pneumoniae isolates with respect to the metabolism of both fatty acids and amino acids, a hypothesis that is supported by previously-acquired transcriptomic data.
Ungodly Genders: Deconstructing Ex-Gay Movement Discourses of “Transgenderism” in the US
Authors: Robinson Christine M. , Spivey Sue E.
Published: June 2019

This research investigates a neglected topic within both transgender studies and religious studies by analyzing ex-gay movement discourses of “transgenderism” from the 1970s to the present, focusing primarily on the US-American context. The oppression of transgender people in the US and globally is fed and fueled by the religious, scientific, and political discourses of the transnational “ex-gay” movement, which provides the ideological and material foundation of Christian Right politics. Using critical discourse analysis of ex-gay texts, we analyze the implications of these discourses in the individual, interactional, and institutional dimensions of society’s gender structure. This movement is one of the most insidious—and overlooked—sources of cisgenderism and transmisogyny today, constructing gender variance as sin, mental illness, and danger—with catastrophic consequences for transgender people, and those along the transfemale/feminine spectrum in particular. Finally, we discuss the public policy implications of these discourses.
Recognition of Foot Strike Pattern in Asian Recreational Runners
Authors: Patoz Aurélien , Lussiana Thibault , Gindre Cyrille , Hébert-Losier Kim
Published: June 2019

Close to 90% of recreational runners rearfoot strike in a long-distance road race. This prevalence has been obtained from North American cohorts of runners. The prevalence of rearfoot strikers has not been extensively examined in an Asian population of recreational runners. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of rearfoot, midfoot, and forefoot strikers during a long-distance road race in Asian recreational runners and compare this prevalence to reported values in the scientific literature. To do so, we classified the foot strike pattern of 950 recreational runners at the 10 km mark of the Singapore marathon (77% Asian field). We observed 71.1%, 16.6%, 1.7%, and 10.6% of rearfoot, midfoot, forefoot, and asymmetric strikers, respectively. Chi-squared tests revealed significant differences between our foot strike pattern distribution and those reported from North American cohorts (P < 0.001). Our foot strike pattern distribution was similar to one reported from elite half-marathon runners racing in Japan (Fisher exact test, P = 0.168). We conclude that the prevalence of rearfoot strikers is lower in Asian than North American recreational runners. Running research should consider and report ethnicity of participants given that ethnicity can potentially explain biomechanical differences in running patterns.
A Bayes Inference for Ordinal Response with Latent Variable Approach
Authors: Sha Naijun , Dechi Benard Owusu
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we propose a Bayesian model for the analysis of categorical data with an ordered outcome. The method provides a latent variable approach with an informative prior transformed from a Dirichlet distribution for the boundary parameters. A simulation study is carried out to assess the performance of the methods under various settings of the data structure. Our method produces predictive accuracy over the conventional classification procedures. Real data are analyzed to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Overtourism: A Literature Review to Assess Implications and Future Perspectives
Authors: Capocchi Alessandro , Vallone Cinzia , Pierotti Mariarita , Amaduzzi Andrea
Published: June 2019

Overtourism is an emerging concept facing the world’s main tourist destinations. The growth that tourism has undergone in recent decades is of two different types. On the one hand, the development of new technologies and the creation of low-cost airline carriers have increased tourism levels, leading to growth even in emerging economies. On the other hand, uncontrolled demand alongside a concentration of tourism in particular destinations impact negatively both territories and local communities. The problems caused in some destinations by the increasing, ongoing growth in tourism have created the issue of “overtourism,” which is assuming an increasing significance in the literature. This paper contributes to the literature by providing an exploratory study with which to better understand the origins of overtourism, its implications, and predicted future perspectives in respect to the issue. Examination of the new evidence presented here contributes to the expanding knowledge of particular problems of tourism development.
Responsible or Thematic? The True Nature of Sustainability-Themed Mutual Funds
Authors: Ielasi Federica , Rossolini Monica
Published: June 2019

The aim of the paper is to compare the risk-adjusted performance of sustainability-themed funds with other categories of mutual funds: sustainable and responsible mutual funds that implement different approaches in portfolio selection and management, and thematic funds not committed to responsible investments. The study analyses a sample of about 1000 European mutual open-end funds where 302 are sustainability-themed funds, 358 are other responsible funds, and 341 other thematic funds. Risk-adjusted performance is analyzed for the period 2007–2017 using different methodologies: a single factor Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM), a Fama and French (1993) 3-factor model, and a Fama and French (2015) 5-factor model. Our main findings demonstrate that the risk-adjusted performance of ST funds is more closely related to their responsible nature than to their thematic approach. Sustainability-themed mutual funds are more similar to other socially responsible funds than to other thematic funds, as confirmed by performance analysis over time. They are also better than other thematic funds in overcoming financially turbulent periods and currently benefit from SRI regulation and disclosure.
Remediation of Potential Toxic Elements from Wastes and Soils: Analysis and Energy Prospects
Authors: González-Martínez Alberto , de Simón-Martín Miguel , López Roberto , Táboas-Fernández Raquel , Bernardo-Sánchez Antonio
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study is to evaluate the application of the main hazardous waste management techniques in mining operations and in dumping sites being conscious of the inter-linkages and inter-compartment of the contaminated soils and sediments. For this purpose, a systematic review of the literature on the reduction or elimination of different potential toxic elements was carried out, focusing on As, Cd and Hg as main current contaminant agents. Selected techniques are feasible according to several European countries’ directives, especially in Spain. In the case of arsenic, we verified that there exists a main line that is based on the use of iron minerals and its derivatives. It is important to determine its speciation since As (III) is more toxic and mobile than As (V). For cadmium (II), we observed a certain predominance of the use of biotic techniques, compared to a variety of others. Finally, in mercury case, treatments include a phytoremediation technique using Limnocharis flava and the use of a new natural adsorbent: a modified nanobiocomposite hydrogel. The use of biological treatments is increasingly being studied because they are environmentally friendly, efficient and highly viable in both process and energy terms. The study of techniques for the removal of potential toxic elements should be performed with a focus on the simultaneous removal of several metals, since in nature they do not appear in isolation. Moreover, we found that energy analysis constitutes a limiting factor in relation to the feasibility of these techniques.
Open Innovation Strategies for Sustainable Urban Living
Authors: van Genuchten Eva , Calderón González Alicia , Mulder Ingrid
Published: June 2019

Cities are increasingly seen as having an important role in tackling societal challenges related to climate change, while open innovation is increasingly accepted as a new way of working for governments. In the current work, we explore the role of open innovation to tackle global challenges on a city level. In the context of the city of Rotterdam and its vision on sustainability and liveability, seven collaborative initiatives are introduced. These initiatives aim to address both sustainability and liveability goals. Our research shows that in order to have these initiatives contribute to the overall municipal goal on sustainability and liveability, the municipality needs to take different roles. Whereas traditional open innovation literature usually distinguishes three main types of open innovation, namely outside-in, inside-out, and coupled processes, the current study shows that open innovation for sustainability in the city needs a much more fine-grained and elaborate perspective; a multi-level open innovation model that allows for different co-creative partnerships joining forces in sustainability challenges. It can be concluded that governments have a key role in infrastructuring these co-creative partnerships.
From the Anthropocene to Mutual Thriving: An Agenda for Higher Education in the Ecozoic
Authors: Vargas Roncancio Ivan , Temper Leah , Sterlin Joshua , Smolyar Nina L. , Sellers Shaun , Moore Maya , Melgar-Melgar Rigo , Larson Jolyon , Horner Catherine , Erickson Jon D. , Egler Megan , Brown Peter G. , Boulot Emille , Beigi Tina , Babcock Michael
Published: June 2019

Higher education in the global North, and exported elsewhere, is complicit in driving the planet’s socio-ecological crises by teaching how to most effectively marginalize and plunder Earth and human communities. As students and activists within the academic system, we take a firm stand to arrest this cycle, and to redirect education toward teaching how to create conditions for all life to thrive. In this paper, we articulate a research and education agenda for co-constructing knowledge and wisdom, and propose shifts in the ‘ologies from the current, destructive modes to intended regenerative counterparts. We offer to shift from an ontology of separation to that of interconnectedness; from an epistemology of domination to that of egalitarian relationship; and from an axiology of development to that of plural values for world- and meaning-making. Such paradigm shifts reflect the foundational aspirations of the consilient transdiscipline of ecological economics. We analyze several introductory university textbooks in economics, law, and natural sciences, to demonstrate how destructive ‘ologies are taught in North American universities, and how such teaching implicitly undermines critical inquiry and effective challenge. Our strategy for change is to provide a new theoretical framework for education: the regenerative ‘ologies of the Ecozoic’, based on biophysicality, embedded relationality, pluralism, and the sustainable well-being of all members in the community of life.
Multicriteria Approach to Sustainable Transport Evaluation under Incomplete Knowledge: Electric Bikes Case Study
Authors: Sałabun Wojciech , Palczewski Krzysztof , Wątróbski Jarosław
Published: June 2019

The problem of sustainable city transport is a growing field of study, and will be addressed in this paper. With the rising significance of present transportation systems’ negative externalities on the environment, such as the unavoidable increase of air pollution levels, cities seek sustainable means of transport and reduction of combustion cars’ utilization. Moreover, improvements in the area of renewable energy sources have led to rising trends in sustainability, driving the usage and production of electric vehicles. Currently, there is an increasing tendency of looking for more sustainable transport solutions, especially in highly congested urban areas. It seems that in that case, electric bicycles can be a good option, as they yield more benefits in comparison to cars, especially combustion cars. In this paper, we identify an assessment model for the selection of the best electric bicycle for sustainable city transport by using incomplete knowledge. For this purpose, the Characteristic Objects METhod (COMET) is used. The COMET method, proven effective in the assessment of sustainable challenges, is a modern approach, utterly free of the rank reversal phenomenon. The evaluated model considers investigated multiple criteria and is independent of chosen alternatives in the criteria domain. Hence, it can be easily modified and extended for diverse sets of decisional variants. Moreover, the presented approach allows assessing alternatives under conditions of incomplete knowledge, where some data are presented as possible interval numbers.
Application Status of Co-Processing Municipal Sewage Sludge in Cement Kilns in China
Authors: Xu Jingcheng , Ping Li , Cao Haihua , Liu Wei , Gu Yunhui , Lin Xiaohu , Huang Juwen
Published: June 2019

Municipal sewage sludge (MSS) disposal is an urgent issue in China with the continuous growth of sewage treatment capacity. Among various disposal methods, co-processing of MSS in cement kilns has been one of the most promising disposal methods in recent years. The present situation of sewage treatment and sludge disposal, the development of co-processing MSS in a cement kiln, and main disposal routes in China were discussed in this study. The results indicated that China had paid considerable attention to the technology and released correlative policies in the past few years. There were about 35 co-processing projects built in China, all of which were limited by construction scale and pollutant emissions. Due to differences in construction methods and economic conditions, China’s co-processing projects mainly employed three routes—direct addition to a transition chamber, addition to a precalciner after direct thermal drying, and addition to a precalciner after indirect drying. Summarizing and analyzing the characteristics of MSS co-processing would facilitate its development in China and similar regions.
Enhancing Health Through Access to Nature: How Effective are Interventions in Woodlands in Deprived Urban Communities? A Quasi-experimental Study in Scotland, UK
Authors: Ward Thompson Catharine , Elizalde Aldo , Cummins Steven , Leyland Alastair H. , Botha Willings , Briggs Andrew , Tilley Sara , Silveirinha de Oliveira Eva , Roe Jenny , Aspinall Peter , Mitchell Richard
Published: June 2019

High prevalence of poor mental health is a major public health problem. Natural environments may contribute to mitigating stress and enhancing health. However, there is little evidence on whether community-level interventions intended to increase exposure to natural environments can improve mental health and related behaviours. In the first study of its kind, we evaluated whether the implementation of a programme designed to improve the quality of, and access to, local woodlands in deprived communities in Scotland, UK, was associated with lower perceived stress or other health-related outcomes, using a controlled, repeat cross-sectional design with a nested prospective cohort. Interventions included physical changes to the woodlands and community engagement activities within the woodlands, with data collected at baseline (2013) and post-intervention (2014 and 2015). The interventions were, unexpectedly, associated with increased perceived stress compared to control sites. However, we observed significantly greater increases in stress for those living >500 m from intervention sites. Visits to nearby nature (woods and other green space) increased overall, and moderate physical activity levels also increased. In the intervention communities, those who visited natural environments showed smaller increases in stress than those who did not; there was also some evidence of increased nature connectedness and social cohesion. The intervention costs were modest but there were no significant changes in quality of life on which to base cost-effectiveness. Findings suggest factors not captured in the study may have contributed to the perceived stress patterns found. Wider community engagement and longer post-intervention follow-up may be needed to achieve significant health benefits from woodland interventions such as those described here. The study points to the challenges in evidencing the effectiveness of green space and forestry interventions to enhance health in urban environments, but also to potential benefits from more integrated approaches across health and landscape planning and management practice.
Benefit–Cost Analysis of Green Roof Initiative Projects: The Case of Jung-gu, Seoul
Authors: Shin Eunha , Kim Heungsoon
Published: June 2019

Green roofs, which have various economic, environmental and social effects, have been acknowledged as an alternative green space in urban areas. This study aims to investigate the economic feasibility of green roof projects by conducting a benefit–cost analysis on the case of Jung-gu, Seoul. The analysis estimates and compares five different scenarios applied in the study area with a 20-year operation period in all cases. This set of scenarios aims to compare the most idealistic situation with more achievable and realistic situations, to provide policy implications for green roof initiative projects in Seoul. The analysis consists of estimating six cost items and eight benefit items. Among the benefit items, two non-marketable elements are estimated by the contingent valuation method. The scenario with 100% application of a green roof, has benefits exceeding the costs with a benefit–cost ratio of 1.174. However, the other scenarios with certain prerequisites have a benefit–cost ratio that is very close, but still smaller than 1. Therefore, it is possible to claim that green roof initiative projects are economically viable under specific conditions. However, there are many restrictions to engaging in green roof constructions for entire building rooftops.
Balancing Population Distribution and Sustainable Economic Development in Yangtze River Economic Belt of China
Authors: Xiang Huali , Yang Jun , Liu Xi , Lee Jay
Published: June 2019

From a macro perspective, the inconsistency between population distribution and economic development reflects the lag of population mobility and, at the same time, widens regions’ economic disparity. China, as a socialist country, is very concerned with the regional disparities. Aiming at analyzing ways to reduce regional disparities and promote balanced and sustainable regional developments, this paper applies spatial analytical methods in econometrics, using the Yangtze River Economic Belt in China as an example, to analyze the spatial inconsistency between the distribution of population and economic development. The study also examines the influencing factors for such inconsistency and proposes countermeasures from the perspective of floating population and regional economics. The research results show that the improvement of human capital and the tilt of regional policies are conducive to population agglomeration. Furthermore, increasing the input of physical capital can promote economic agglomeration. From the spatial econometric analysis in this paper, the direct and indirect effects have opposite directions, so it is necessary to consider the indirect effects when implementing policies or programs.
Global X-tream Index and its Partial Parameters for Identifying the Level of Potential Individual Characteristics in the Challenging Conditions of a Modern Corporate and Security Environment
Authors: Ullrich David , Koleňák Jiří , Ambrozová Eva , Pokorný Vratislav , Milichovský František
Published: June 2019

The contribution of this paper focuses on identifying the personality potential and sources of professional managers that are crucial for the effective management of challenging situations. The contribution introduces the current knowledge of connatural management (CNM) as part of cognitive management, which were identified as key multi-parametric dimensions of personal fitness. The individual dimensions represent the indicators of the quality of an individual’s condition. The first one is the personality dimension, which provides information about individual integrity, situational settings, ambition, the tendency of an individual toward risk, and readiness to change. Second, the mental–cognitive dimension relates to the individual’s potential for critical, creative, and systemic thinking. It conveys information about the ability to accept a change and proactively adapt to its consequences. Lastly, the psycho-physical dimension concerns the interaction of physical and mental processes, states, and phenomena. The main objective of the research was to determine the Global X-tream index, which is applicable for the prompt identification of the qualities of human resources for a specific corporate HR system. The study consisted of 236 respondents, who graduated and successfully completed special courses with applied X-tream methodology. It enables the creation of conditions that enable detecting and evaluating the above-mentioned basic three-dimensional and multi-parametric indicators related to the performance of individuals in a corporate environment. The paper introduces the individual indices, which were used as a basis for the definition of the global X-tream index.
Comparison between Daytime and Nighttime Scenery Focusing on Restorative and Recovery Effect
Authors: Cheon SangHyun , Han Soyoung , Kim Mintai , Kwon Yoonku
Published: June 2019

The overall purpose of this study was to investigate psycho-physiological variations in human bodies by observing visual images of daytime and nighttime scenery to focus on restorative and recovery effects. Unlike previous studies that have focused on the natural versus built environments, this study aims to compare restorative and recovery potentials between daytime and nighttime. The experiment was conducted by showing a total of 12 images to 60 participants in order to measure the brain response with an electroencephalogram (EEG). As measures of the psychological impact of the images, perceived restorative and recovery scales were used. The self-reported data indicates that daytime sceneries are rated more positively than nighttime sceneries in terms of restorative and recovery effects. According to the EEG results, restorative and recovery feelings have negative relationships with the relative theta band, while positive relationships are shown with the relative alpha band. The correlation analysis between EEG bands and brain regions showed a significant correlation (p < 0.05) with 46 pairs for the daytime scenery stimuli and 52 pairs for the nighttime scenery stimuli. Through the results of the study, we conclude that daytime and nighttime scenery affect restorative feelings and the human brain response through both verbal and non-verbal methods.
Investigation of Future Land Use Change and Implications for Cropland Quality: The Case of China
Authors: Wang Meng , Sun Xiaofang , Fan Zemeng , Yue Tianxiang
Published: June 2019

Cropland loss resulting from land use change has drawn great attention in China due to the threat to food security. However, little is known about future magnitude and quality of cropland of China. In this study, the dynamic conversion of land use and its effects model (Dyna-CLUE) together with the Markov model and the potential yield data were used to simulate the influence of land use change on cropland quality in the next two decades under three scenarios. The results indicate that, under the trend scenario, the high-yield and medium-yield cropland would decrease and the low-yield cropland would increase between 2015 and 2030. The crop yield would decrease by 1.3 × 109 kg. Under planned scenario, high-yield and medium-yield cropland would decrease and the low-yield cropland would increase, and total crop yield would stay almost unchanged. Under the cropland protection scenario, the high-yield cropland would reduce slightly, and the medium-yield and low-yield cropland would increase substantially. The crop yield would increase by 5.36 × 1010 kg. The result of this study will help decision-makers to develop reasonable land use policies to achieve the goals of harmonious development between food security, economic growth, and environmental protection.
Responsibility and Performance Relationship in the Banking Industry
Authors: Gonenc Halit , Scholtens Bert
Published: June 2019

We study the relationship between financial performance and responsibility in the banking industry. Given the wide diversity in business models and operations, this relationship needs to be studied at the level of specific industries. We contribute to the debate about financial and social performance in the banking industry by using highly detailed responsibility and financial performance information, which helps to understand why this relationship exists and how the relationship evolves over time. We rely on a diverse international sample for the period 2002–2015 and use a wide range of financial performance measures next to various specific indicators for corporate governance, environmental, and social performance. By using simultaneous equation system estimations to address the causality between financial performance and responsibility, we find that the Tier-1 capital adequacy ratio is significantly and positively associated with responsibility indicators. As such, stronger institutions appear to be able to act in a more responsible manner and such responsibility signals banks’ health. We also establish that the global financial crisis did have a profound impact on the finance-responsibility nexus. We show that there are changes in the underlying relationships in this nexus during the post-crisis period compared to the pre-crisis period. Furthermore, such changes are different between countries with high and low income, civil and common law, single and multiple supervision authorities, and central bank and non-central bank supervision.
The Nexus between Socio-Ecological System, Livelihood Resilience, and Migration Decisions: Empirical Evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Mallick Bishawjit
Published: June 2019

This research aims to ascertain how, and to what extent, livelihood resilience influences migration decisions (to migrate or not to migrate) of people who live in vulnerable socio-ecological systems (SESs). To do so, first, the characteristics of different SESs are determined; secondly, livelihood resilience across the SESs are analysed; and finally, the influence of livelihood resilience on the ‘migration decision’ (i.e., to migrate or not to migrate) is explained. The explanation of migration is based on the patterns, location, purpose, scope, and extent of migration. This paper addresses these issues based on empirical evidence from five rural coastal communities in Bangladesh. Findings show that resilient people would like to stay put and the decision differs across SESs, for example, the majority of people living in salt-shrimp-dependent SESs intended to migrate in the future, whereas the majority of people living in rain-fed agriculture-dependent SESs preferred to not migrate. Thus, the ability to migrate is therefore not only dependent on economic capability but also on the socio-ecological context of the place in which people live.
Sustainability of Pork Production with Immunocastration in Europe
Authors: Kress Kevin , Millet Sam , Labussière Étienne , Weiler Ulrike , Stefanski Volker
Published: June 2019

Immunocastration, a technique to replace surgical castration of piglets, consists of two consecutive vaccinations to induce antibodies which transiently suppress testicular functions and avoid boar taint. It is a method to ensure both a high product quality and a high level of animal welfare. The impact of immunocastration on the three pillars of sustainability has been studied extensively. While all aspects of sustainability have been studied separately, however, a contemporary global overview of different aspects is missing. In immunocastrates, performance results are better than in barrows, but worse than in boars. The environmental impact of pork production with immunocastrates is lower than with barrows, but higher than with boars. The level of aggression is considerably lower in immunocastrates compared to boars. Societal concerns are mainly related to food safety, and are not supported by scientific evidence. After second vaccination, immunocastrates switch from a boar- to a barrow-like status. Therefore, the timing of second vaccination is a fine-tuning tool to balance advantages of boars with environmental and economic benefits against increased risk of welfare problems and boar taint. Nevertheless, both synergic and conflicting relationships between the pillars of sustainability must be communicated along the value chain to produce tailored pork products.
Future Regional Contributions for Climate Change Mitigation: Insights from Energy Investment Gap and Policy Cost
Authors: Sun Hongjie , Niu Shuwen , Wang Xiqiang
Published: June 2019

Mitigating climate change and ensuring regional equity development is equitable are matters of global concern. Systematic and in-depth research into these issues is seldom conducted. In this research we combine qualitative and quantitative studies and use six state-of-the-art energy-economy analysis models and four long term scenarios to explore the distribution of regional contributions for climate change mitigation in the future. We focus on the energy investment gap and policy cost. The study’s conclusion is that, under the assumption of carbon tax as a source of energy investment from 2025, the global positive energy investment gap in the climate change mitigation scenario will not appear until around 2035–2040. Asia and OECD90+EU (Countries from the OECD 1990, EU and its candidates) are the regions that will have a significant direct impact on the global energy investment gap under climate policies in the future. However, from the perspective of the relative value (the percentage of the energy investment gap relative to the energy investment in the Current Policies (CPol) scenario), Asia will contribute the most to the global energy investment gap under the climate stability policies. Under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) scenario, Asia will contribute the most in the near term and REF will contribute the most in the medium term. The findings show that OECD90+EU will bear more cost in the pledges scenario, and Asia will bear more cost in the climate stability scenarios in the medium term. Contrary to the common sense expectation, the developed regions will contribute the least in terms of the proportion of the policy cost to the respective economic aggregates under the climate stability scenarios in the medium and long term, but the opposite is true in the developing regions. By and large, from the perspective of the current climate change mitigation policies, the developed regions and developing regions will achieve a win-win situation in the long run, but the relative contribution of the developed regions is not as great as was previously expected. These novel findings should prove to be useful to policy makers when developing transition strategies for climate change mitigation.
Is There a Good Model for Implementing Governance in Tourist Destinations? The Opinion of Experts
Authors: Pulido-Fernández María de la Cruz , Pulido-Fernández Juan Ignacio
Published: June 2019

The scientific literature and reports by international bodies recognise the importance of governance in tourism. This is a process whereby different stakeholders interact in order to solve problems and find opportunities for the different sectors involved. For the purposes of this article, different approaches have been analysed with the aim of understanding the full governance process among stakeholders. In order to validate the main findings, a panel of experts was set up to establish the characteristics a model should have when implementing the principles of good governance as a key tool for managing tourist destinations. This model is aimed at guaranteeing the sustainable development of tourism and enhancing competitiveness. There is a great consensus about how governance must be applied, establishing an open and participatory model which must be transparent and effective, capable of attracting the participation, coordination and collaboration among stakeholders using a clear methodology divided into different stages: diagnosis, planning and strategy, execution and monitoring, and evaluation.
Theoretical Study of an Intermittent Water-Ammonia Absorption Solar System for Small Power Ice Production
Authors: Garcia João M. , Rosa Armando
Published: June 2019

This article is dedicated to the design, calculation and dimensioning of a small powered refrigeration system (132W) which produces ice bars (freezing) using solar thermal power, and resorts to an intermittent cycle absorption circuit with a water-ammonia mixture (H2O-NH3). The aim of this equipment is to minimize problems faced in places where there is no electric network to supply traditional refrigeration systems which preserve perishable products produced or stocked there, as well as drugs (vaccines), namely for specific regions of developing countries. The system developed can be divided into two parts. The intermittent cycle absorption refrigeration system uses a binary water-ammonia solution (H2O-NH3), where water is the absorber and the ammonia is the coolant and the thermal solar system. This is made up of CPC flat plate thermal collectors or vacuum tubes in which solar energy heats the water that circulates in the primary circuit. In the absorption circulation system, circulation occurs in a natural way due to the fluids affinity, and the temperature and pressure internal variations. This article shows the assumptions underlying the conception, calculation and dimensioning of the system’s construction.
A Brief Note on the Heap Leaching Technologies for the Recovery of Valuable Metals
Authors: Thenepalli Thriveni , Chilakala Ramakrishna , Habte Lulit , Tuan Lai Quang , Kim Chun Sik
Published: June 2019

Heap leaching is a low-cost technology used in industrial mining to recover precious metals such as gold and uranium, along with several other highly sought after metals like copper, from their primary resources (ores and minerals). For many decades, there has been a growing demand for heap leaching due to its environmental benefits. Heap leaching provides mining operators with a benign, effective and economical solution for the environment and produces only minor emissions from furnaces. The cost of the heap leaching process is low, making this process an attractive option from a financial standpoint. Here, we shall present a brief review of the heap leaching process when applied to the extraction of different metals from primary resources (ores and minerals). This paper presents a roadmap to satisfy future national demands for rare earth elements (REEs). This heap leaching process is applicable for the recovery of REEs from secondary resources such as mining and coal residues. Heap leaching plays a significant role in the recovery of critical elements which are used in clean and green energy applications. In the mining sector, heap leaching is a distinguished method for the recovery of valuable/beneficial metals from low-quality ore. In the present study, we shall report briefly on the heap leaching technologies for valuable metal recovery with economic advantages.
Impact of Perceived Livelihood Risk on Livelihood Strategies: A Case Study in Shiyang River Basin, China
Authors: Su Fang , SAIKIA Udoy , HAY Iain
Published: June 2019

Using data collected from semi-structured interviews with 485 households, this research evaluates the effect of perceived livelihood risk on livelihood strategies within farming households in China’s Shiyang River Basin. Perceived livelihood risk was evaluated by establishing an index system of livelihood risk (health, environmental, financial, social, and information and connectivity risks). Different livelihood strategies were identified, including reducing consumption, seeking help from relatives and friends, securing loans, seeking employment, and converting assets into cash. The effect of perceived livelihood risk on livelihood strategies was measured and evaluated using multinomial logistic regression. The results indicate that the effect of different perceived livelihood risk on livelihood strategies varies. Personality traits, as well as perceived health risk, financial risk, social risk, and environmental risk influence livelihood strategies, while perceived information risk and connectivity risk do not appear to have obvious relationships to livelihood strategies. Finally, we present proposals for ensuring farmers’ livelihood strategies are more effective.
Exploring the Impact of Individual Characteristics Associated with Government Officials on the Severity of Real Estate Corruption
Authors: Zhang Hongxia , Song Yan , Li Chaosu , Liu Qi , Cui Huatai , Zeng Chen , Wang Zhongcheng , Zhang Qian , Li Yanan , Rong Yiling
Published: June 2019

In China, corruption by government officials in the field of real estate has increased at an unprecedented pace, which poses a huge threat to social sustainability. To date, scholars have primarily focused on the macroscopic determinant factors of corruption such as state intervention and economic competition; however, much less is known about the microscopic determinant factor of corruption. In this study, we use an analytical model to evaluate how individual characteristics of government officials involved in corruption cases influence and predict the scale of corruption in these cases. Based on data collected from 135 cases, the results show that age is not a key factor that affects the severity of real estate corruption; however, characteristics associated with amounts of power and levels of involvement in corruption significantly affect the severity of real estate corruption. Therefore, we propose the following countermeasures: (1) take into account the micro determinants of real estate corruption, (2) focus supervision on officials in charge of departments, key position managers, and top leaders, (3) reform the governance of each phase of real estate development and governmental involvement, and (4) enhance auditing during officials’ tenures and limit the possibility of promoting officials who have participated in corruption.
Science Mapping of the Knowledge Base on Tourism Innovation
Authors: Durán-Sánchez Amador , Álvarez-García José , del Río-Rama María de la Cruz , Rosado-Cebrián Beatriz
Published: June 2019

In order to shed light on the trends and performance of the contributions in the field of tourism innovation, a comparative bibliometric analysis of production in this area, indexed in the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases is carried out in this research. We opted for a document tracking strategy through a search of terms, in which 211 and 264 articles were identified in WoS and Scopus, respectively. Based on the analysis of the selected articles, it is concluded that it is an emerging and fragmented field of knowledge with more than two thirds of its production concentrated in the last five years. Other results indicate that there is a great concentration of articles within the subject areas of business, management and accounting (Scopus), and social science (WoS), highlighting Hjalager, A, M. as the most prolific researcher and tourism management as the journal that publishes the highest number of papers. Spain, the United Kingdom, and Denmark hold the top positions in the ranking of countries by number of articles and authors affiliated with one of their centers. In the area of tourism innovation, Scopus has better coverage due to collecting a greater number of articles and receiving a greater number of citations.
Modeling the Impact of Climate Change and Land Use Change Scenarios on Soil Erosion at the Minab Dam Watershed
Authors: Azimi Sardari Mohammad Reza , Bazrafshan Ommolbanin , Panagopoulos Thomas , Sardooi Elham Rafiei
Published: June 2019

Climate and land use change can influence susceptibility to erosion and consequently land degradation. The aim of this study was to investigate in the baseline and a future period, the land use and climate change effects on soil erosion at an important dam watershed occupying a strategic position on the narrow Strait of Hormuz. The future climate change at the study area was inferred using statistical downscaling and validated by the Canadian earth system model (CanESM2). The future land use change was also simulated using the Markov chain and artificial neural network, and the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation was adopted to estimate soil loss under climate and land use change scenarios. Results show that rainfall erosivity (R factor) will increase under all Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios. The highest amount of R was 40.6 MJ mm ha−1 h−1y−1 in 2030 under RPC 2.6. Future land use/land cover showed rangelands turning into agricultural lands, vegetation cover degradation and an increased soil cover among others. The change of C and R factors represented most of the increase of soil erosion and sediment production in the study area during the future period. The highest erosion during the future period was predicted to reach 14.5 t ha−1 y−1, which will generate 5.52 t ha−1 y−1 sediment. The difference between estimated and observed sediment was 1.42 t ha−1 year−1 at the baseline period. Among the soil erosion factors, soil cover (C factor) is the one that watershed managers could influence most in order to reduce soil loss and alleviate the negative effects of climate change.