bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainability Monitoring with Robotic Accounting—Integration of Financial and Environmental Farm Data
Authors: Poppe Krijn , Vrolijk Hans , de Graaf Nicole , van Dijk Roeland , Dillon Emma , Donnellan Trevor
Published: June 2022

The production of farm sustainability indicators is vital for all actors in the food chain. This paper shows how robotic accounting could assist in the monitoring and compliance of farm performance, to assess the various aspects of sustainability. We show how financial farm accounting, which is routine on most farms, can be extended to deliver a range of sustainability metrics. Using farm invoices from the Netherlands and Ireland, we show that many invoices contain volume data that can be used to calculate environmental indicators such as pesticide use, mass balances (especially needed in organic farming), material balances of N and P, energy use, antibiotics use, etc. Using a number of illustrative use cases, we show the feasibility of deriving both financial and sustainability data from invoices. Standard algorithms can be used to link the invoice data to bank payment data and code it with a chart of accounts using a simple data and process model. Linking invoices with bank data provides advantages with respect to completeness, reliability, and efficiency. We describe a software tool that provides flexible data management processes that can easily be adapted by the user to collect new data that reflect emerging environmental or social concerns. Data collectors can set up procedures in which new types of data can be acquired or new indicators calculated, avoiding the need for software reprogramming. The digitalisation of invoices, ideally in a standard (UBL) format, is a necessary step to facilitate the process described. This digital format would lead to reduced accounting costs and at the same time could also provide farmers with a dashboard of sustainability indicators. Once invoices are digitalised, accounting costs drop, the potential for errors or omissions is reduced, and the administrative burden for environmental accounting diminishes due to the low marginal cost of data management.
Quantitative Study on the Law of Surface Subsidence Zoning in Steeply Inclined Extra-Thick Coal Seam Mining
Authors: Yan Yueguan , Zhang Yanjun , Zhu Yuanhao , Cai Jinchi , Wang Junyao
Published: June 2022

The damage of overlying strata and ground surface caused by the one-time mining space is relatively severe in steeply inclined extra-thick coal seams. The unique law of surface subsidence at these conditions is still missing. Taking Huating Dongxia Coal Mine as the research background, this paper reveals the law-governing effects on rock strata and surface movement and deformation caused by steeply inclined extra-thick coal seam mining with different coal seam dip angles and coal thicknesses by using the methods of surface measurement, theoretical analysis, and numerical simulation. Based on the characteristics of the surface inclination deformation, the surface is divided into four areas along the tendency section line—namely, an outcrop discontinuous deformation area, an overall subsidence area, a gradual subsidence area, and a slight subsidence area. The results show that the influence of the coal seam dip angle on surface subsidence zoning in steeply inclined and thick coal seams is mainly reflected in the affected area range and the form of damage. Coal thickness has a weak effect on the form of rock strata damage and surface movement. Utilizing the influence of the coal seam dip angle and coal seam thickness on the change in the surface subsidence zoning, the calculation formulas for each area range and zoning angle in relation to the coal seam dip angle, coal thickness, mining depth, and vertical stage height are established. The research results can provide a reference to evaluate the influence of mining, especially in steeply inclined extra-thick coal seams.
Empirical Evaluation of the Environmental Emergency Management Capability of Local Governments in China
Authors: Tang Leilei , Fan Bonai , Li Chengjiang , Zhao Gang
Published: June 2022

Environmental emergency management is an important practical subject for local governments. Understanding the different dimensions of environmental emergency management capability is crucial for enabling a well-informed governance performance. Based on the crisis management 4R theory (comprising four stages: reduction, readiness, response and recovery), PPRR emergency management theory (emergency management is categorized into four stages: prevention, preparation, response and recovery), crisis life cycle theory and ISO 22320, this paper divided local government environmental emergency management capability into four dimensions of a dynamic pre–during–post process: preparedness, early warning, response and recovery. This paper applied a confirmatory factor analysis model to confirm the classification standards of the four capabilities, which are strongly correlated within environmental emergency management. We found that China’s local government environmental emergency management capability is generally at an upper-middle level, according to the empirical data. We also analyzed the regional differences in local government environmental emergency management capability across China and concluded that the environmental emergency management capability of local governments in the eastern region is higher than those in other regions. The capability levels in the central, western and northeastern regions are more similar to each other and show a decreasing distribution in the east–central–west–northeast region.
Sustainability and Open Innovation: Main Themes and Research Trajectories
Authors: Bigliardi Barbara , Filippelli Serena
Published: June 2022

Today, innovation and sustainability in their broadest sense, which includes people (social dimension), the planet (environmental dimension) and profits (economic dimension), are increasingly intertwined. Integrating the sustainability dimension into the innovation of products, services, processes, technologies, business and organizational models requires an effort on the part of the company as it demands a different set of knowledge and skills than those needed to innovate in a traditional way. As a result, companies, in order to integrate the dimension of sustainability in their innovation processes, have felt the need to exploit knowledge, skills and technologies external to the organization itself, promoting what is called the process of open innovation. Since this field of field is only recently being explored, we conducted a literature review through bibliometric analysis on a sample of 93 scientific articles published between 2011 and today, April 2022. To achieve the purpose of this review, both quantitative (co-occurrence analysis) and qualitative analysis have been conducted. Four different research themes have been identified: sustainable open innovation and innovation performance, the role of technological capability for sustainable open innovation, business model perspective and sustainable open innovation and university collaboration. As far as future research is concerned, a mainline has been identified concerning the study of sustainable open innovation in the agri-food industry.
Great Resignation—Ethical, Cultural, Relational, and Personal Dimensions of Generation Y and Z Employees’ Engagement
Authors: Kuzior Aleksandra , Kettler Karolina , Rąb Łukasz
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced the work world. One of the most visible impacts on employee lifecycles is the phenomenon called the great resignation, a massive wave of workers quitting across industries that began in 2021, after easing of the first pandemic restrictions. As this process is quite recent, there is a research gap in the field which has pushed the authors to examine this topic in more detail. The authors set the following research hypothesis: The great resignation is primarily caused by the ethical, cultural, relational, and personal factors. In order to verify it, the authors conducted original research and analyzed various desk studies. The research was done within a Berlin-based tech startup in the time frame between January 2020 and December 2021. Based on their findings, the authors concluded that the main reasons for employees leaving their workplaces are non-materialistic ones.
Telework as a Game-Changer for Sustainability? Transitions in Work, Workplace and Socio-Spatial Arrangements
Authors: Krasilnikova Nadezda , Levin-Keitel Meike
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic makes home-based telework commonplace and promotes a discussion about addressing mobility problems. Many studies focus on the relationship between the urban form at the place of residence and mode of transport or travel distance. Less attention has been paid to the spatial location of the workplace and its implications for mobility. In this article, we investigate these shifting patterns of work (places) from a socio-spatial mobility perspective. Companies in suburban areas are often characterised by limited access to public transport, cause accordingly high commuting volumes of car traffic and have a strong impact on mobility systems throughout whole regions. Anchored in a case study in Burgwedel, in the suburban area of Hannover, Germany, we analyse the impact and the potential of telework concerning workplaces and sustainable mobility. The data analysis is based on qualitative interviews with local employers (n = 10) and a survey of employees in Burgwedel (n = 367) during October–December 2021. We identify three groups of employees according to their abilities to implement telework defined by the nature of their job and their company’s culture. We show that teleworking can be a game-changer for sustainable mobility in cooperation with local companies.
Public Food Procurement: A Transformative Instrument for Sustainable Food Systems
Authors: Stein Mark , Hunter Danny , Swensson Luana , Schneider Sergio , Tartanac Florence
Published: June 2022

Public food procurement policies and initiatives designed to use government purchasing power and regular demand for food have gained much global attention in the last decade [...]
Study on Strength and Swell Behavioral Change and Properties of the Clay–Fiber Mixtures
Authors: Taleb Talal , Unsever Yesim S.
Published: June 2022

Clayey soils are spread over large areas of the world. This soil type has numerous problems due to its low strength, high compressibility, and high level of volumetric changes. To overcome these difficulties, many researchers have concentrated their studies on soil improvement techniques. Recently, soil reinforcement has been considered an effective and reliable technique for improving the strength and stability of these soils by using different types of reinforcing materials. This paper aims to investigate the feasibility of using polypropylene fiber as a low-cost and environmentally friendly reinforcing material for high plasticity clay, and assess the strength and swelling behavioral change with fiber content to determine the optimum fiber content that meets the effective improvement rate. A series of laboratory experiments such as a direct shear test, swell test, and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) test were carried out to evaluate the fiber content effect on the strength and swell behavior of composite clay (clay mixed with fiber). The fiber content varied from 0% to 1.5% (by dry weight of the soil). The results show that the inclusion of fiber affects the shear strength (an average increase of 184% at 1.5% fibers), and unconfined compressive strength (an increase of 86% at 1.5% fibers). Likewise, the increase in fiber content causes an increase in the strength properties, cohesion, and friction angle (257% and 62% at 1.5% fibers, respectively). Also, the increase of fiber content causes a decrease in both swelling potential and swell stress (a decrease of 24% and 46% at 1.5% fibers, respectively) in the studied clayey soil.
Changes of Bioclimatic Conditions in the Kłodzko Region (SW Poland)
Authors: Głogowski Arkadiusz , Perona Paolo , Bryś Tadeusz , Bryś Krystyna
Published: June 2022

Despite continuous technological development, lack of data or discontinuity in meteorological measurements is still an issue affecting many stations. This study was devoted to determining the bioclimatic conditions in the Kłodzko region (SW Poland), where meteorological measurements have been discontinuous since 2006. Four stations with continuous measurements were analyzed. These localities are situated at Kłodzko and its health resorts. Bioclimatic conditions were determined using the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI). The study of variability in UTCI was performed in different circulation epochs. Additionally, a non-linear model for SW Poland was used to reconstruct the long-term trend of air temperature in the Kłodzko region. Verification of this model was performed on the basis of own air temperature measurements in the period from April 2017 to March 2022. Analysis of thermal conditions in circulation phases showed higher air temperatures and UTCI values in epoch W (1989–present) compared to epoch E (1966–1988) at all analyzed stations. The non-linear model of meteorological data showed its applicability for data reconstruction in the region with an accuracy of about 67%. Further modification of the model may serve to increase its applicability to other locations in Europe or North America.
Complexity of Family Businesses in El Salvador: A Structural Equation Model
Authors: Flores-Hernández Edwin Ricardo , Rodero-Cosano María Luisa , Perla-Cartagena Ana Evelyn
Published: June 2022

Family businesses play an important role in sustainable development in Latin American countries, providing economic benefits and leading to a reduction in violence. Until now, family businesses, their characteristics, and the factors that influence their economic development have not been studied in this region. Identifying the appropriate variables contributing to successful family businesses in this region and clarifying the relationships between these variables are important for developing a management model that supports the stability and growth of these businesses and their influence on sustainable development in the region. To this end, this study aims to understand the complexity of family businesses classified as small and medium-sized companies located in San Salvador, El Salvador. This study represents a first approximation and application of this model in one of the representative economies of Latin America. Our literature review allowed us to establish a basic management model incorporating the complexity of family businesses in this regional context. Using a partial least squares structural equation model (SEM-PLS) and a database of 181 family firms, we identify the variables that best explain the management model through the following structures: financial management, business management, family complexity, and company complexity. The results show that in conditions where high interest rates coexist with political conflicts and a complex economic situation, family businesses constitute a pillar for the development of the country towards sustainability. This study has practical implications for entrepreneurs and professionals. This research proposes a management model that allows us to identify the variables that increase or decrease the complexity of family businesses and guides entrepreneurs in taking concrete actions to reduce this complexity. In general terms, this model explains that financial performance depends on business management, the complexity of the family, and the complexity of the company. Finally, based on the results obtained in El Salvador, a clear direction for future research is established, through which it is possible to study the variables that may reduce the complexity of the family and the company in other countries with similar socioeconomic characteristics.
Projection Matrix Models: A Suitable Approach for Predicting Sustainable Growth in Uneven-Aged and Mixed Hyrcanian Forests
Authors: Salehnasab Abotaleb , Burkhart Harold E. , Bayat Mahmoud , Khaleghi Bagher , Heidari Sahar , Masood Awan Hafiz Umair
Published: June 2022

The Hyrcanian forests of Iran are mainly managed with the single-selection silvicultural technique. Despite significant ecological benefits associated with selection cutting, this type of forest management leads towards more challenging situations where it is difficult to maintain and practice successful forestry than in even-aged systems. Therefore, this study provides relevant management tools in the form of models to estimate low growth levels in Hyrcanian forests. In the present study, estimation of the population growth rate and then the allowable cut rate of these forests using a matrix model have been calculated in the Gorazbon district. For this purpose, the data of 256 permanent sample plots measured during the years between 2003 and 2012, as well as the data recorded about the trees harvested according to the forestry plan, have been used. As a first step, the most frequently occurring tree species were divided into four groups (beech, hornbeam, chestnut-leaved oak, and other species). Compartments of the district were divided into two groups of logged and unlogged compartments. The purpose of this division was to estimate the allowable cut and compare its volume with the volumes of observed and predicted allowable cuts obtained from forestry plans. The results showed that the total operated allowable cut (OAC) in logged compartments was more than the estimated allowable cut (EAC). In unlogged compartments, the total predicted allowable cut (PAC) was more than EAC. A comparison of EAC and OAC showed that hornbeam has been harvested more than its potential. However, chestnut-leaved oak and other species group have depicted opposite trends. Our models provide important advancements for estimating allowable cut that can enhance the goal of practicing sustainable forestry.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation and Experiment on the Microscopic Mechanism of the Effect of Wax Crystals on the Burst and Drainage of Foams
Authors: Zuo Lili , Zhang Qi , Sun Chengwei , Zhu Xiaosong , Wu Changchun
Published: June 2022

In recent years, with the goal of “carbon peaking and carbon neutralization”, the CO2 flooding technology in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUs) has been paid great attention to the oil fields. However, the CO2 flooding of crude oil may produce foams in the oil and gas separation process. In addition, the precipitation of wax components in crude oil might enhance the stability characteristics of these foams and lower the separator’s efficiency. Based on a crude oil depressurization foaming device, the influence of wax crystals on the bursting of oil foam was studied using simulated oil, and the microstructure of the wax crystal and foam liquid film was observed using freeze-etching and microscopic observation. In addition, the gas–liquid interface model of the wax oil was established by a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation to analyze the influence mechanism of wax crystals on foam drainage and gas diffusion among foams in the microlayer. The results show that the precipitation of wax crystals overall reduces the rate of defoaming and drainage and increases the grain diameter of the foam. The formation and growth of the wax crystal-shaped network impede the flow of liquid in the drainage channel and stabilize the foam. Moreover, it impedes the diffusion of CO2 among foams, inhibiting the bursting of the foams. The results of the combined experiments and MD simulation verify the accuracy and applicability of the molecular model, which further clarifies the effect of wax crystals on foam stability and its mechanism of action on foam film. These findings are a benchmark for the enhancement of defoaming and separation efficiency and a theoretical framework for future study and modeling.
Influence/Effect of Deep-Level Defect of Absorber Layer and n/i Interface on the Performance of Antimony Triselenide Solar Cells by Numerical Simulation
Authors: Khac Dong Le , Chowdhury Shahariar , Luengchavanon Montri , Jamal Mohammad Shah , Laref Amel , Techato Kuaanan , Sreesawet Suwat , Channumsin Sittiporn , Chia Chin Hua
Published: June 2022

The antimony sulphide (AnS) solar cell is a relatively new photovoltaic technology. Because of its attractive material, optical, and electrical qualities, Sb2Se3 is an excellent absorption layer in solar cells, with a conversion efficiency of less than 8%. The purpose of this research is to determine the best parameter for increasing solar cell efficiency. This research focused on the influence of absorber layer defect density and the n/i interface on the performance of antimony trisulfide solar cells. The researchers designed the absorber thickness values with the help of the SCAPS-1D (Solar Cell Capacitance Simulator-1D) simulation programme. For this purpose, they designed the ZnS/Sb2Se3/PEDOT: PSS planar p-i-n structure, and then simulated its performance. This result confirms a Power Conversion Efficiency (PCE) of ≥25% at an absorber layer thickness of >300 nm and a defect density of 1014 cm−3, which were within the acceptable range. In this experiment, the researchers hypothesised that the antimony triselenide conduction band possessed a typical energy of ≈0.1 eV and an energetic defect level of ≈0.6 eV. At the n/i interface, every condition generated a similar result. However, the researchers noted a few limitations regarding the relationship between the defect mechanism and the device performance.
Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic, Social Media Usage and Food Waste Intention: The Role of Excessive Buying Behavior and Religiosity
Authors: Azazz Alaa M. S. , Elshaer Ibrahim A.
Published: June 2022

Despite being a religious country, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) ranks among the world’s worst food wasters. Social media usage (SMU) and changes in customers’ behavior, such as excessive buying, are some of the main influences of food waste. This paper examined the impact of SMU on food waste intention (FWI) with the mediating role of religiosity and excessive buying behavior amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 1250 restaurant customers in KSA. The study results employing structural equation modeling (SEM) demonstrated a significant negative impact of customer religion on the intention of food waste. Nevertheless, SMU fosters excessive buying, which in return results in a high FWI. The results also demonstrated that excessive buying behaviors partially mediate the influence of SMU and religiosity on the intention of food waste. The findings have numerous implications for policymakers, academics, and restaurant professionals.
Use of Incinerated Eggshells to Produce Pidan
Authors: Lin Chia-Min , Hou Chih-Yao , Shih Ming-Kuei , Hsieh Chang-Wei , Hung Yu-Lin , Huang Ping-Hsiu
Published: June 2022

Preserved eggs (pidans) are used in traditional Chinese cuisines. However, the alkaline conditions and metal ions generated during its preparation have caused some concerns. This study developed an innovative process for pidan processing using incinerated eggshell powder, an abundant by-product that can generate a highly alkaline solution and provide calcium ions (Ca2+). Either 0.5, 3, or 5% of the eggshell powder solution was used for basic pickling. Different combinations of ZnSO4 (0.175%), MgCl2 (0.08%), and CuSO4 (0.16%) were added. Duck eggs were pickled for 25 days at 25–27 °C, followed by 14 days of ripening. The pidan processed in 5% eggshell powder containing 0.175% ZnSO4 demonstrated the closest physiochemical and sensory characteristics to commercial pidans. Thus, the results offer a new technique to manufacture pidans and reduce the harmful impact of metal ions on human health and the environment.
Bond Strength and Fracture Toughness of Alkali Activated Self-Compacting Concrete Incorporating Metakaolin or Nanosilica
Authors: Alzeebaree Radhwan
Published: June 2022

This study aims to evaluate the effect of nanosilica (NS) and metakaolin (MK) as binder replacement materials on the fresh and hardened characteristics of slag (GGBS)-based alkali-activated self-compacting concretes (A-ASCC). Therefore, nine A-ASCC mixes, with and without metakaolin, were prepared, as well as mixes with and without NS incorporation. In the production of A-ASCC mixes, GGBS was used as a binder material. The fresh properties of A-ASCC were determined using the L-box, V-funnel, T50 value, and slump flow tests, while the hardened properties were examined using compressive strength, bonding strength (pullout test), fracture toughness, and flexural tensile strength tests. A relationship analysis was also conducted on the A-ASCC experimental data. The experimental results showed that NS and MK had a negative effect on the fresh properties of GGBS-based A-ASCC mixtures, whereas metakaolin had a greater influence. The addition of 1% and 2% NS, on the other hand, improved the mechanical performance of the A-ASCC specimens significantly. The use of more than 2% NS had a harmful effect on the mechanical properties of A-ASCC. A 5% replacement ratio of metakaolin improved the mechanical properties of A-ASCC. The use of metakaolin at ratios of more than 5% had a negative effect on the properties of A-ASCC.
Modular Design of Bioretention Systems for Sustainable Stormwater Management under Drivers of Urbanization and Climate Change
Authors: Batalini de Macedo Marina , Gomes Júnior Marcus Nóbrega , Jochelavicius Vivian , de Oliveira Thalita Raquel Pereira , Mendiondo Eduardo Mario
Published: June 2022

The increase in urbanization and climate change projections point to a worsening of floods and urban river contamination. Cities need to adopt adaptive urban drainage measures capable of mitigating these drivers of change. This study presents a practical methodology for a modular design of bioretention systems incorporating land use and climate change into existing sizing methods. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis for these methods was performed. The methodology was applied to a case study in the city of Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil. Three application scales were evaluated: property scale (PS), street scale (SS) and neighborhood scale (NS) for three temporal scenarios: current, 2015–2050 and 2050–2100. The choice of the sizing method was the factor with greatest influence on the final bioretention performance, as it considerably affected the surface areas designed, followed by the hydraulic conductivity of the filtering media. When analyzing the sensitivity of the parameters for each method, the runoff coefficient and the daily precipitation with 90% probability were identified as the most sensitive parameters. For the period 2050–2100, there was an increase of up to 2×, 2.5× and 4× in inflow for PS, SS and NS, respectively. However and despite the great uncertainty of future drivers, bioretention performance would remain almost constant in future periods due to modular design.
Prediction of Bidirectional Shear Strength of Rectangular RC Columns Subjected to Multidirectional Earthquake Actions for Collapse Prevention
Authors: Pang Yingbo , Azim Iftikhar , Rauf Momina , Iqbal Muhammad Farjad , Ge Xinguang , Ashraf Muhammad , Tariq Muhammad Atiq Ur Rahman , Ng Anne W. M.
Published: June 2022

The understanding of the effects of multidirectional loadings imposed on major load bearing elements such as reinforced concrete (RC) columns by seismic actions for collapse prevention is of utmost importance, and a few simplified models are available in the literature. In this study, the distinguishing features of two machine-learning (ML) methods, namely, multi expression programming (MEP) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) are exploited for the first time to develop eight novel prediction models (M1-to M4-MEP and M1-to M4-ANFIS) with different combinations of input parameters to predict the biaxial shear strength of RC columns (V). The performance of the developed models was assessed using various statistical indicators and by comparing them with the experimental values. Based on the statistical analysis of the developed models, M1-ANFIS and M1-MEP performed very well and exhibited the best overall efficiency of the studied ML methods. Simple mathematical formulations were also provided by the MEP algorithm for the prediction of V, using which the M1-MEP model was finalized based on its performance, accuracy, and generalization capability. A parametric analysis was also performed for the model to show that the mathematical formulation provided by MEP accurately represents the system under consideration and is imperative for prediction purposes. Based on its performance, the model can thus be recommended to update the current code provisions and engineering practices.
Investigating the Adaptive Thermal Comfort of the Elderly in Rural Mutual Aid Homes in Central Inner Mongolia
Authors: Li Haokun , Xu Guoqiang , Chen Jiuwang , Duan Junfang
Published: June 2022

In the present study, questionnaires and field measurements were carried out to investigate the thermal sensation, thermal preference, and adaptive behavior of 216 elderly people living in rural mutual aid homes in central Inner Mongolia from 15 December 2020 to 31 December 2020. The main objective of this article was to understand the thermal comfort of the elderly at different ages and provide a reference for the design and construction of mutual aid homes from the perspective of adaptive thermal comfort. The obtained results showed that the average clothing thermal resistance of the elderly is 1.36 clo, and the thermal neutral temperature is 20.52 °C. Moreover, the 80% acceptable temperature range of the elderly is 15.48–25.56 °C, and the thermal expectation temperature is 21.09 °C. Then, an adaptive thermal comfort model was established for the elderly in rural mutual aid hospitals in the region. It was found that the thermal resistance, thermal neutral temperature, and thermal sensitivity of the clothing of the elderly of different ages are significantly different. The difference is especially more pronounced for the elderly over 80 years. Therefore, the differences in the thermal comfort needs of the elderly of different ages should be considered in the construction of rural mutual aid homes. This article is expected to provide a reference for the design of rural mutual aid homes and the update of heating systems.
A Group Contribution Method for Predicting the Alkyl Ester and Biodiesel Densities at Various Temperatures
Authors: Ramírez-Verduzco Luis Felipe
Published: June 2022

Biofuels are an attractive alternative from polluting activities to low carbon ones. In this understanding, biodiesel has the potential to replace fossil diesel. Density is a relevant parameter of biodiesel to work out its quality. Density models lead to reducing the costly and time-consuming experimental measurements. We compiled two databases to prove a group contribution approach. For this purpose, the first database contained 1231 densities of 58 alkyl esters, while the second covered 696 densities of 16 pure biodiesel samples and 8 biodiesel blends. The group contribution method based on the molar volume was used to estimate the alkyl ester densities, while the mixing rule proposed by Kay was used to predict the biodiesel densities. The method developed here is easy to apply and provides excellent results, because an average absolute deviation of 0.29% was reached on the biodiesel density prediction.
Scenario-Based Predictions of Urban Dynamics in Île-de-France Region: A New Combinatory Methodologic Approach of Variance Analysis and Frequency Ratio
Authors: Al-Shaar Walid , Bonin Olivier , de Gouvello Bernard
Published: June 2022

Modelling land use dynamics is a critical scientific issue. Despite a diversity of models coming from the fields of remote sensing, geography, and economics, including multicriteria decision analysis and machine-learning models, taking into account the external driving factors of urbanization is still a main challenge. This study aims at simulating various land use development scenarios with global and local parameters. Thus, the developed approach is able to estimate and simulate the dynamic evolution of land use classes, the evolution of urban attractivity, both of which depend on several driving factors. The proposed scenarios incorporate anticipated global changes, such as an increase in oil prices and a decrease in wealth, and local spatial changes such as the provision of new rail lines and the development of new activity zones. The results of simulations, for the study area covering a great part of the Île-de-France region, show for the year 2050 an 18% increase in urban areas and a 25% decrease in bare soils, compared to the year 2018. Moreover, the increase of global prices and the reduction of income levels would increase the attractivity of public transport modes and drive urbanization around stations, reduce the accessible distances to public transport systems by 8.5%, reduce the dependency on private vehicles, and increase the concentrated saturation of urban development. These scenarios will serve as a basis for the deployment of nature-based solutions and renewable energy production.
Comprehensive Evaluation of the Eco-Geological Environment in the Concentrated Mining Area of Mineral Resources
Authors: Wu Chenyang , Zhang Yichen , Zhang Jiquan , Chen Yanan , Duan Chenyu , Qi Jiawei , Cheng Zhongshuai , Pan Zengkai
Published: June 2022

The urbanization rate in China has been increasing in recent years, and along with the increasing intensity of human engineering activities, ecological and geological (eco-geological) degradation have become key factors impeding sustainable urban development. Taking the concentrated mineral exploitation area of Tonghua City as an example, the distribution of mines in the area is concentrated and the spatial heterogeneity is significant. This paper includes 14 evaluation indicators in three aspects: eco-geological environment background, anthropogenic and mining engineering activities, and environmental pollution. Then, based on game theory combined with ANP-CV (Analytic Network Process and Coefficient of Variation), two empowerment methods, GIS spatial calculation is used to evaluate the eco-geological environment quality (EEQ). The results showed that the EEQ was divided into grades I–V from high to low, with areas of 21.13%, 30.35%, 27.00%, 14.30%, and 7.22%, respectively; the EEQ of the Hun River basin has a high spatial autocorrelation and low EEQ, and the EEQ grade of mines was divided on this basis; the hot spot analysis is useful for determining the EEQ, as well as for allocating mine restoration resources in a sensible manner. Finally, we propose countermeasures to improve EEQ, and this study can provide a scientific basis for ecological construction and geological environmental protection in Tonghua City.
Peak Detection and HRV Feature Evaluation on ECG and PPG Signals
Authors: Esgalhado Filipa , Batista Arnaldo , Vassilenko Valentina , Russo Sara , Ortigueira Manuel
Published: June 2022

Heart Rate Variability (HRV) evaluates the autonomic nervous system regulation and can be used as a monitoring tool in conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, neuropathies and sleep staging. It can be extracted from the electrocardiogram (ECG) and the photoplethysmogram (PPG) signals. Typically, the HRV is obtained from the ECG processing. Being the PPG sensor widely used in clinical setups for physiological parameters monitoring such as blood oxygenation and ventilatory rate, the question arises regarding the PPG adequacy for HRV extraction. There is not a consensus regarding the PPG being able to replace the ECG in the HRV estimation. This work aims to be a contribution to this research area by comparing the HRV estimation obtained from simultaneously acquired ECG and PPG signals from forty subjects. A peak detection method is herein introduced based on the Hilbert transform: Hilbert Double Envelope Method (HDEM). Two other peak detector methods were also evaluated: Pan-Tompkins and Wavelet-based. HRV parameters for time, frequency and the non-linear domain were calculated for each algorithm and the Pearson correlation, T-test and RMSE were evaluated. The HDEM algorithm showed the best overall results with a sensitivity of 99.07% and 99.45% for the ECG and the PPG signals, respectively. For this algorithm, a high correlation and no significant differences were found between HRV features and the gold standard, for the ECG and PPG signals. The results show that the PPG is a suitable alternative to the ECG for HRV feature extraction.
Multiplicity of Solutions for Quasilinear Differential Models Generated by Instantaneous and Non-Instantaneous Impulses
Authors: Shen Tengfei , Liu Wenbin , Zhang Wei
Published: June 2022

This paper aims to deal with the multiplicity of weak solutions for quasilinear differential models generated by instantaneous and non-instantaneous impulses. By establishing the new variational structure and overcoming the influence of impulsive effects brought by the quasilinear term, some new results are acquired via the gene property, which extends and enriches some previous results. Moreover, an example is given to illustrate the conclusion of the main results.
Effects of a Geometrically Realized Early Dark Energy Era on the Spectrum of Primordial Gravitational Waves
Authors: Oikonomou Vasilis K. , Lymperiadou Eirini C.
Published: June 2022

In this work, we investigate the effects of a geometrically generated early dark energy era on the energy spectrum of the primordial gravitational waves. The early dark energy era, which we choose to have a constant equation of state parameter w, is synergistically generated by an appropriate f(R) gravity in the presence of matter and radiation perfect fluids. As we demonstrate, the predicted signal for the energy spectrum of the f(R) primordial gravitational waves is amplified and can be detectable, for various reheating temperatures, especially for large reheating temperatures. The signal amplitude depends on the duration of the early dark energy era and on the value of the dark energy equation of state parameter, with the latter affecting more crucially the amplification. Specifically, the amplification occurs when the equation of state parameter approaches the de Sitter value w=−1. Regarding the duration of the early dark energy era, we find that the largest amplification occurs when the early dark energy era commences at temperature T=0.85 eV until T=7.8 eV. Moreover, we study a similar scenario in which amplification occurs, where the early dark energy era commences at T=0.29 eV and lasts until the temperature is increased by ΔT∼1.7 eV. The discovery of primordial gravitational waves will reveal if several symmetries in the Universe exist or not so this work is important toward revealing the primordial gravitational waves.
Human Biomonitoring Initiative (HBM4EU): Human Biomonitoring Guidance Values Derived for Dimethylformamide
Authors: Lamkarkach Farida , Meslin Matthieu , Kolossa-Gehring Marike , Apel Petra , Garnier Robert
Published: June 2022

Within the European Joint Program on Human Biomonitoring HBM4EU, human biomonitoring guidance values (HBM-GVs) for the general population (HBM-GVGenPop) or for occupationally exposed adults (HBM-GVWorker) are derived for prioritized substances including dimethylformamide (DMF). The methodology to derive these values that was agreed upon within the HBM4EU project was applied. A large database on DMF exposure from studies conducted at workplaces provided dose–response relationships between biomarker concentrations and health effects. The hepatotoxicity of DMF has been identified as having the most sensitive effect, with increased liver enzyme concentrations serving as biomarkers of the effect. Out of the available biomarkers of DMF exposure studied in this paper, the following were selected to derive HBM-GVWorker: total N-methylformamide (tNMF) (sum of N-hydroxymethyl-N-methylformamide and NMF) and N-acetyl-S-(N-methylcarbamoyl)cysteine (AMCC) in urine. The proposed HBM-GVWorker is 10 mg·L−1 or 10 mg·g−1 creatinine for both biomarkers. Due to their different half-lives, tNMF (representative of the exposure of the day) and AMCC (representative of the preceding days’ exposure) are complementary for the biological monitoring of workers exposed to DMF. The levels of confidence for these HBM-GVWorker are set to “high” for tNMF and “medium-low” for AMCC. Therefore, further investigations are required for the consolidation of the health-based HBM-GV for AMCC in urine.
Inhibition of Aspergillus Parasiticus Growth and Aflatoxins Production by Natural Essential Oils and Phenolic Acids
Authors: Lorán Susana , Carramiñana Juan José , Juan Teresa , Ariño Agustín , Herrera Marta
Published: June 2022

Aflatoxins represent a significant risk to food safety, and strategies are being implemented to reduce their entry into the food chain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro effect of four essential oils (EOs) (lavandins Grosso and Abrial, Origanum virens, and Rosmarinus officinalis) and four natural phenolic acids (PAs) (caffeic, chlorogenic, ferulic, and p-coumaric) on the growth and aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, and G2) production by Aspergillus parasiticus. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal fungicide concentration (MFC) were determined by the broth macrodilution method. Additionally, the mycelia weight was determined at concentration levels lower than MIC. The antiaflatoxigenic activity was evaluated in the two concentrations of the EOs right before MIC and at concentrations below the MIC value for the PAs. To this end, in-house validated methodology based on high-performance liquid chromatography with post-column photochemical derivatization and fluorescence detection (HPLC-PHRED-FLD) was used. EOs of O. virens and lavandins (Grosso and Abrial) completely inhibited mold growth. In addition, a significant reduction in mycelial mass (p < 0.05) was observed for all EOs and PAs at different concentrations. In all cases except for lavandin Abrial, EO concentrations just before the MIC value strongly reduced (p < 0.05) aflatoxins synthesis. Aflatoxins production was completely inhibited by all PAs at a concentration of 20 mM; although at low concentrations, mycotoxin production was stimulated in some cases. The present study provides a scientific basis for further study of the inhibiting mechanisms.
A Review of Cyanophage–Host Relationships: Highlighting Cyanophages as a Potential Cyanobacteria Control Strategy
Authors: Grasso Christopher R. , Pokrzywinski Kaytee L. , Waechter Christopher , Rycroft Taylor , Zhang Yanyan , Aligata Alyssa , Kramer Michael , Lamsal Anisha
Published: June 2022

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are naturally occurring phenomena, and cyanobacteria are the most commonly occurring HABs in freshwater systems. Cyanobacteria HABs (cyanoHABs) negatively affect ecosystems and drinking water resources through the production of potent toxins. Furthermore, the frequency, duration, and distribution of cyanoHABs are increasing, and conditions that favor cyanobacteria growth are predicted to increase in the coming years. Current methods for mitigating cyanoHABs are generally short-lived and resource-intensive, and have negative impacts on non-target species. Cyanophages (viruses that specifically target cyanobacteria) have the potential to provide a highly specific control strategy with minimal impacts on non-target species and propagation in the environment. A detailed review (primarily up to 2020) of cyanophage lifecycle, diversity, and factors influencing infectivity is provided in this paper, along with a discussion of cyanophage and host cyanobacteria relationships for seven prominent cyanoHAB-forming genera in North America, including: Synechococcus, Microcystis, Dolichospermum, Aphanizomenon, Cylindrospermopsis, Planktothrix, and Lyngbya. Lastly, factors affecting the potential application of cyanophages as a cyanoHAB control strategy are discussed, including efficacy considerations, optimization, and scalability for large-scale applications.
Many-Quark Interactions: Large-N Scaling and Contribution to Baryon Masses
Authors: Buisseret Fabien , Willemyns Cintia T. , Semay Claude
Published: June 2022

Starting from an effective Hamiltonian modeling, of a baryon made of N identical quarks in the large-N approach of QCD, we obtain analytical formulas, allowing to estimate the contributions of multiquark interactions to the baryon mass. The cases of vanishing (mass spectrum) and non-vanishing (baryon melting) temperatures are treated.
ALPINE: A Large Survey to Understand Teenage Galaxies
Authors: Faisst Andreas L. , Yan Lin , Béthermin Matthieu , Cassata Paolo , Dessauges-Zavadsky Miroslava , Fudamoto Yoshinobu , Ginolfi Michele , Gruppioni Carlotta , Jones Gareth , Khusanova Yana , LeFèvre Olivier , Pozzi Francesca , Romano Michael , Silverman John , Vanderhoof Brittany
Published: June 2022

A multiwavelength study of galaxies is important to understand their formation and evolution. Only in the recent past, thanks to the Atacama Large (Sub) Millimeter Array (ALMA), were we able to study the far-infrared (IR) properties of galaxies at high redshifts. In this article, we summarize recent research highlights and their significance to our understanding of early galaxy evolution from the ALPINE survey, a large program with ALMA to observe the dust continuum and 158μm C+ emission of normal star-forming galaxies at z= 4–6. Combined with ancillary data at UV through near-IR wavelengths, ALPINE provides the currently largest multiwavelength sample of post-reionization galaxies and has advanced our understanding of (i) the demographics of C+ emission; (ii) the relation of star formation and C+ emission; (iii) the gas content; (iv) outflows and enrichment of the intergalactic medium; and (v) the kinematics, emergence of disks, and merger rates in galaxies at z>4. ALPINE builds the basis for more detailed measurements with the next generation of telescopes, and places itself as an important post-reionization baseline sample to allow a continuous study of galaxies over 13 billion years of cosmic time.
Evaluation Methods of Detrusor Sphincter Dyssynergia in Spinal Cord Injury Patients: A Literature Review
Authors: Pereira José Alexandre , Debugne Thierry
Published: June 2022

Detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) is defined as an external urethral sphincter anomalous contraction concomitant to detrusor contraction during voiding, due to a neurological disease. It commonly occurs in suprasacral spinal cord-injured (SCI) patients and can be associated with autonomic dysreflexia. DSD generates risks to the urinary system and overall health; hence, it should be promptly diagnosed and managed. Bladder neck dyssynergia is a condition that should be integrated in DSD assessment. We reviewed the literature indexed in PubMed/Medline on the evaluation methods of DSD in SCI patients. Urodynamics is the mainstay evaluation method and has a prognostic value for the progression of upper urinary tract structural degradation and renal function decline. We found a lack of consensus on the optimal urodynamics configuration when evaluating DSD, especially in obtaining and measuring the signal from external urethral sphincter (EUS) activity. It appears that a combination of recordings of voiding cystourethrography and EUS electromyography, either with or without EUS pressure measurement, is the most accurate method available for evaluating DSD. While gathering articles, we came across an interesting approach in evaluating DSD in the past: urodynamics coupled with ultrasound imaging. Despite being considered valuable from a diagnostic standpoint by some prominent authors, it is no longer represented in the current literature. In addition to the instrumental diagnosis, health professionals should consider additional clinical features when evaluating and managing DSD in SCI patients, to design a customized plan to achieve the best compromise between quality of life and urinary system protection.