bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Data Parallelism for FM-Based Short-Read Alignment on the Heterogeneous Non-Uniform Memory Access Architectures
Authors: Chen Shaolong , Dai Yunzi , Liu Liwei , Yu Xinting
Published: June 2024

Sequence alignment is a critical factor in the variant analysis of genomic research. Since the FM (Ferrainas–Manzini) index was developed, it has proven to be a model in a compact format with efficient pattern matching and high-speed query searching, which has attracted much research interest in the field of sequence alignment. Such characteristics make it a convenient tool for handling large-scale sequence alignment projects executed with a small memory. In bioinformatics, the massive success of next-generation sequencing technology has led to an exponential growth in genomic data, presenting a computational challenge for sequence alignment. In addition, the use of a heterogeneous computing system, composed of various types of nodes, is prevalent in the field of HPC (high-performance computing), which presents a promising solution for sequence alignment. However, conventional methodologies in short-read alignment are limited in performance on current heterogeneous computing infrastructures. Therefore, we developed a parallel sequence alignment to investigate the applicability of this approach in NUMA-based (Non-Uniform Memory Access) heterogeneous architectures against traditional alignment algorithms. This proposed work combines the LF (longest-first) distribution policy with the EP (enhanced partitioning) strategy for effective load balancing and efficient parallelization among heterogeneous architectures. The newly proposed LF-EP-based FM aligner shows excellent efficiency and a significant improvement over NUMA-based heterogeneous computing platforms. We provide significantly improved performance over several popular FM aligners in many dimensions such as read length, sequence number, sequence distance, alignment speedup, and result quality. These resultant evaluation metrics cover the quality assessment, complexity analysis, and speedup evaluation of our approach. Utilizing the capabilities of NUMA-based heterogeneous computing architectures, our approach effectively provides a convenient solution for large-scale short-read alignment in the heterogeneous system.
A Comparative Study of Encapsulation of β-Carotene via Spray-Drying and Freeze-Drying Techniques Using Pullulan and Whey Protein Isolate as Wall Material
Authors: Drosou Christina , Krokida Magdalini
Published: June 2024

The encapsulation of β-carotene was investigated using pullulan and whey protein isolate (WPI) as a composite matrix at a weight ratio of 20:80, employing both spray-drying and freeze-drying techniques. The influence of processing parameters such as the concentration of wall material, flow rate, and inlet temperature for SP encapsulants, as well as wall-material concentration for FZ encapsulants, was examined in terms of encapsulation efficiency (EE). The morphology, structural characterization, moisture sorption isotherms, and thermal properties of the resulting encapsulants at optimum conditions were determined. Their stability was investigated under various levels of water activity, temperature conditions, and exposure to UV–Vis irradiation. β-carotene was efficiently encapsulated within SP and FZ structures, resulting in EE of approximately 85% and 70%, respectively. The degradation kinetics of β-carotene in both structures followed a first-order reaction model, with the highest rate constants (0.0128 day−1 for SP and 0.165 day−1 for FZ) occurring at an intermediate water-activity level (aw = 0.53) across all storage temperatures. The photostability tests showed that SP encapsulants extended β-carotene’s half-life to 336.02 h, compared with 102.44 h for FZ encapsulants, under UV–Vis irradiation. These findings highlight the potential of SP encapsulants for applications in functional foods, pharmaceuticals, and carotenoid supplements.
Service Life of Pre-Tensioned Concrete Structures in a Chloride Environment on the Example of an Aluminium Foundry Building
Authors: Michałek Jarosław , Gago Filip
Published: June 2024

This paper describes a study of the chloride content in the concrete lagging of prestressed concrete elements of the roof structure of an aluminium foundry building. Sources of chloride pollution in industrial facilities are discussed. Methods for collecting dust deposited on the structure and sampling concrete for chloride concentration testing are presented in detail. The test methods used and the apparatus used to assess the chloride content at the thickness of concrete reinforcement lagging are presented. Investigations of the chloride content in the concrete of the reinforcement cover showed a very high concentration of chloride in the near-surface layer, depending on the location of the element in relation to the source of chloride emission into the environment. In contrast, the concrete of the deeper layers of the lagging contained very small amounts of Cl− chlorides. The results of the chloride content of the lagging concrete were plotted against the distance from the surface of the specimen and approximated by the function C(x,t) based on Fick’s second law and its solution. A satisfactory fit of the course of this function to the experimental results was obtained. Based on the obtained C(x,t) function, the durability of the main structural components of an aluminium foundry industrial hall operating in a chloride environment was estimated.
Evaluation and Analysis of Cement Raw Meal Homogenization Characteristics Based on Simulated Equipment Models
Authors: Cao Lianwei , Zhou Yongmin
Published: June 2024

In recent years, the variability in the composition of cement raw materials has increasingly impacted the quality of cement products. However, there has been relatively little research on the homogenization effects of equipment in the cement production process. Existing studies mainly focus on the primary functions of equipment, such as the grinding efficiency of ball mills, the thermal decomposition in cyclone preheaters, and the thermal decomposition in rotary kilns. This study selected four typical pieces of equipment with significant homogenization functions for an in-depth investigation: ball mills, pneumatic homogenizing silos, cyclone preheaters, and rotary kilns. To assess the homogenization efficacy of each apparatus, scaled-down models of these devices were constructed and subjected to simulated experiments. To improve experimental efficiency and realistically simulate actual production conditions in a laboratory setting, this study used the uniformity of the electrical capacitance of mixed powders instead of compositional uniformity to analyze homogenization effects. The test material in the experiment consisted of a mixture of raw meal from a cement factory with a high dielectric constant and Fe3O4 powder. The parallel plate capacitance method was employed to ascertain the capacitance value of the mixed powder prior to and subsequent to treatment by each equipment model. The fluctuation of the input and output curves was analyzed, and the standard deviation (S), coefficient of variation (R), and homogenization multiplier (H) were calculated in order to evaluate the homogenization effect of each equipment model on the raw meal. The findings of the study indicated that the pneumatic homogenizer exhibited an exemplary homogenization effect, followed by the ball mill. For the ball mill, a higher proportion of small balls in the gradation can significantly enhance the homogenization effect without considering the grinding efficiency. The five-stage cyclone preheater also has a better homogenization effect, while the rotary kiln has a less significant homogenization effect on raw meal. Finally, the raw meal processed by each equipment model was used for clinker calcination and the preparation of cement mortar samples. After curing for three days, the compressive and flexural strengths of the samples were tested, thereby indirectly verifying the homogenization effect of each equipment model on the raw meal. This study helps to understand the homogenization process of raw materials by equipment in cement production and provides certain reference and data support for equipment selection, operation optimization, and quality control in the cement production process.
Solution of the Elliptic Interface Problem by a Hybrid Mixed Finite Element Method
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Wang Peiyao , Zhang Rongpei , Liu Jia
Published: June 2024

This paper addresses the elliptic interface problem involving jump conditions across the interface. We propose a hybrid mixed finite element method on the triangulation where the interfaces are aligned with the mesh. The second-order elliptic equation is initially decomposed into two equations by introducing a gradient term. Subsequently, weak formulations are applied to these equations. Scheme continuity is enforced using the Lagrange multiplier technique. Finally, we derive an explicit formula for the entries of the matrix equation representing Lagrange multiplier unknowns resulting from hybridization. The method yields approximations of all variables, including the solution and gradient, with optimal order. Furthermore, the matrix representing the final linear algebra systems is not only symmetric but also positive definite. Numerical examples convincingly demonstrate the effectiveness of the hybrid mixed finite element method in addressing elliptic interface problems.
Selenium Intake and Postnatal Depression—A Short Review
Authors: Karkoszka Natalia , Gibula-Tarlowska Ewa , Kotlinska Jolanta , Bielenica Anna , Gawel Kinga , Kedzierska Ewa
Published: June 2024

Postnatal depression is a common and severe complication of childbirth. It is an important public health problem with significant implications for both mothers and children. The exact mechanisms underlying and the factors influencing the occurrence of postnatal depression remain unclear. The literature suggests that certain dietary deficiencies during pregnancy and the postnatal period may contribute to a greater risk of maternal depression. This review focuses on the role of selenium in postnatal depression. It collects evidence from published interventional and observational studies investigating the relationship between selenium intake during the antenatal and postnatal periods and the mental status of postpartum women and summarises information about biological mechanisms that may underlie the association between selenium status and postnatal depression. The review includes studies identified through electronic searches of Medline (via PubMed) and Google Scholar databases until December 2023. Despite the small number of relevant studies and their potential methodological limitations, the findings suggest that optimizing selenium status may support the prevention and treatment of postnatal depression. Further longitudinal and interventional studies are necessary to confirm the clinical significance of these effects.
Association between Salt-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviours and 24 h Urinary Salt Excretion in Nepal
Authors: Ghimire Kamal , Mishra Shiva , Neupane Dinesh , Kallestrup Per , McLachlan Craig
Published: June 2024

This study examined the association between salt-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (KAB) and salt excretion using the 24-hour (24 h) urinary collection method. Data were utilized from the Community-Based Management of Non-Communicable Diseases in Nepal (COBIN) Salt Survey, a community-based cross-sectional study conducted among a sub-sample of COBIN cohort in Pokhara Metropolitan City, Western Nepal, from July to December 2018, among adults aged 25–70 years. A total of 451 adults participated in the study, and a single 24 h urine sample was collected from each participant. The mean [(standard deviation (SD)] age of the participants was 49.6 (9.82) years, and the majority were female (65%). The mean urinary salt excretion was 13.28 (SD: 4.72) g/day, with 98% of participants consuming ≥5 g of salt/day. Although 83% of participants knew the risks of high salt intake and 87% believed it was important to reduce their intake, only 10% reported doing so. Salt-related attitude i.e., self-perceived salt intake was significantly associated with urinary salt excretion, adding extra salt to food, consuming processed foods, and taking actions to salt control. Participants who perceived themselves as consuming high salt had higher urinary salt excretion [(14.42 g/day; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 13.45, 15.39, p = 0.03)], were more likely to add extra [(Odds ratio (OR) = 3.59; 95% CI: 2.03, 6.33, p < 0.001)], and consume processed foods more often (OR = 1.90; 95% CI: 1.06, 3.40, p < 0.05) compared to those who self-perceived consuming a normal amount of salt. Conversely, participants who perceived themselves as consuming low salt were more likely to take actions to control salt intake (OR = 4.22; 95% CI: 1.90, 9.37, p < 0.001) compared to their counterparts who perceived consuming a normal amount of salt. There existed a gap between salt-related knowledge, attitudes, and actual behaviors, resulting in a high salt intake among the Nepalese population. Nepal urgently requires tailored national salt reduction programs that comprise both policy and community-level interventions to achieve a 30% reduction in mean population salt intake by 2025. Further validation studies are needed to assess the effectiveness of community-based intervention in Nepal.
Factor Associated with Adherence to the Protein and Fat Counting Strategy by Adults with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Uliana Gabriela Correia , da Costa Juliana Carvalho , Quaresma Ayla Rocha , da Fonseca Arthur Andrade , Ohaze Kaory Brito , Alves Layla Sandia Cezário , Gomes Daniela Lopes
Published: June 2024

Carbohydrate counting is one of the dietary strategies used for the management of type 1 diabetes (T1DM), and counting proteins and fats allows individuals to achieve better glycemic and metabolic control, reducing glycemic variability and long-term complications. The aim of this paper is to analyze the factors associated with adherence to the protein- and fat-counting strategy in adults with T1DM. This cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2021 to June 2022 through an online questionnaire. We applied Pearson’s Chi-square test with adjusted residual analysis and a binomial logistic regression test using SPSS software, version 24.0, considering p < 0.05 as indicative of statistical significance. There was an association between performing protein and lipid counting and having a higher education level, income exceeding three minimum wages, and having adequate glycated hemoglobin. Performing protein and lipid counting increased the chances of having adequate HbA1c by 4.3 times. Protein and lipid counting was a predictor of having adequate HbA1c. The results suggest that considering the practice of counting proteins and fats is important as a strategy to optimize glycemic control.
L-Citrulline Supplementation Improves Arterial Blood Flow and Muscle Oxygenation during Handgrip Exercise in Hypertensive Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Kang Yejin , Dillon Katherine N. , Martinez Mauricio A. , Maharaj Arun , Fischer Stephen M. , Figueroa Arturo
Published: June 2024

Endothelial dysfunction decreases exercise limb blood flow (BF) and muscle oxygenation. Acute L-Citrulline supplementation (CIT) improves muscle tissue oxygen saturation index (TSI) and deoxygenated hemoglobin (HHb) during exercise. Although CIT improves endothelial function (flow-mediated dilation [FMD]) in hypertensive women, the impact of CIT on exercise BF and muscle oxygenation (TSI) and extraction (HHb) are unknown. We examined the effects of CIT (10 g/day) and a placebo for 4 weeks on blood pressure (BP), arterial vasodilation (FMD, BF, and vascular conductance [VC]), and forearm muscle oxygenation (TSI and HHb) at rest and during exercise in 22 hypertensive postmenopausal women. Compared to the placebo, CIT significantly (p < 0.05) increased FMD (Δ−0.7 ± 0.6% vs. Δ1.6 ± 0.7%) and reduced aortic systolic BP (Δ3 ± 5 vs. Δ−4 ± 6 mmHg) at rest and improved exercise BF (Δ17 ± 12 vs. Δ48 ± 16 mL/min), VC (Δ−21 ± 9 vs. Δ41 ± 14 mL/mmHg/min), TSI (Δ−0.84 ± 0.58% vs. Δ1.61 ± 0.46%), and HHb (Δ1.03 ± 0.69 vs. Δ−2.76 ± 0.77 μM). Exercise BF and VC were positively correlated with improved FMD and TSI during exercise (all p < 0.05). CIT improved exercise artery vasodilation and muscle oxygenation via increased endothelial function in hypertensive postmenopausal women.
Efficacy and Safety of Panax ginseng Sprout Extract in Subjective Memory Impairment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Baek Hyang-Im , Ha Ki-Chan , Park Yu-Kyung , Kim Tae-Young , Park Soo-Jung
Published: June 2024

Sprout ginseng extract (ThinkGIN™) manufactured through a smart farm system has been shown to improve memory in preclinical studies. This study conducted a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ThinkGIN™ for improving memory in subjective memory impairment (SMI). Subjects aged 55 to 75 years with SMI participated in this study. A total of 80 subjects who met the inclusion/exclusion criteria were assigned to the ThinkGIN™ group (n = 40, 450 mg ThinkGIN™/day) or a placebo group (n = 40). Efficacy and safety evaluations were conducted before intervention and at 12 weeks after intervention. As a result of 12 weeks of ThinkGIN™ intake, significant differences in SVLT, RCFT, MoCA-K, PSQI-K, and AChE were observed between the two groups. Safety evaluation (AEs, laboratory tests, vital signs, and electrocardiogram) revealed that ThinkGIN™ was safe with no clinically significant changes. Therefore, ThinkGIN™ has the potential to be used as a functional food to improve memory.
Structural Behavior of High Durability FRP Helical Screw Piles Installed in Reclaimed Saline Land
Authors: Kim Sun-Hee , Joo Hyung-Joong , Choi Wonchang
Published: June 2024

The bearing capacity of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) helical screw piles is determined by the lesser of the breaking load at the bolted joint and the resistance provided by the screw tip area. In this study, compression and tensile tests were performed with the number of bolts and edge distance as variables. It showed similar strength when compared to the failure stress derived from material testing. In addition, considering load resistance performance, the optimal screw cross section was obtained through parametric analysis. Considering the structural behavior of the screw, a prediction equation was presented to design the screw cross-section as a tapered cross-section using a theoretical method. As a result of comparing the screw cross-section with the finite element analysis results, it was confirmed that the design stress and analysis stress showed an error of 1.1 MPa and were within the allowable stress of 80 MPa.
Correction: Zanchetta et al. Effects of Electrospun Fibrous Membranes of PolyCaprolactone and Chitosan/Poly(Ethylene Oxide) on Mouse Acute Skin Lesions. Polymers 2020, 12, 1580
Authors: Zanchetta Flávia Cristina , Trinca Rafael Bergamo , Gomes Silva Juliany Lino , Breder Jéssica da Silva Cunha , Cantarutti Thiago Anselmo , Consonni Sílvio Roberto , Moraes Ângela Maria , Pereira de Araújo Eliana , Saad Mario José Abdalla , Adams Gary G. , Melo Lima Maria Helena
Published: June 2024

In the original publication, the authors claimed that Figure 6 reporting Western blot data was erroneous as published [...]
Study on the Law of Rock Drillability under High-Temperature and High-Pressure Conditions in the Western Margin of the Ordos Basin
Authors: Zhu Liang , Xie Zelong , Li Xiaoming , Zhao Yipeng , Wang Tianyi , Yang Ximing
Published: June 2024

The deep strata in the Ordos Basin exhibit characteristics of high temperature and high stress. Conventional methods for assessing drillability (normal temperature and pressure) fail to accurately understand the drilling resistance characteristics of deep rocks in this region, leading to improper guidance for selecting formation drilling tools and prolonging drilling cycles. This study employs physical experiments and numerical simulations to conduct drillability tests on core samples taken from the region under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions, simultaneously simulating the rock breaking process under different temperature and pressure conditions. The study investigates the variation patterns of rock drillability grade values and von Mises stress values during rock breaking under single-factor and multi-factor analyses of temperature and pressure conditions. Combining these variation patterns, an optimization analysis of the back rake angle of PDC drill bits used in drillability experiments is conducted to guide the selection of drill bits on site. The results indicate that the variation patterns of von Mises values from finite element simulations are consistent with the drillability grade values under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. Under single-factor conditions, von Mises stress and drillability grade values generally increase with rising temperature before decreasing, while they increase with increasing confining pressure. Under multi-factor conditions, confining pressure is the primary influencing factor within the range of 0 to 50 MPa, while the influence of temperature becomes prominent between 180 °C to 200 °C, with a weakening effect of confining pressure. Model application: Selecting a back rake angle of 30° for PDC drill bits yields optimal rock-breaking results. The research findings hold significant implications for understanding the low rock-breaking efficiency of deep strata, optimizing drill bit parameters, and enhancing drilling efficiency.
High Energy Pulsed Laser Beam to Produce a Thin Layer of Crystalline Silver without Heating the Deposition Substrate and Its Catalytic Effects
Authors: Cocean Alexandru , Cocean Georgiana , Postolachi Cristina , Garofalide Silvia , Pricop Daniela Angelica , Munteanu Bogdanel Silvestru , Bulai Georgiana , Cimpoesu Nicanor , Motrescu Iuliana , Pelin Vasile , Ababei Razvan Vasile , Dimitriu Dan-Gheorghe , Cocean Iuliana , Gurlui Silviu
Published: June 2024

Crystalline silver thin layers were obtained using high-energy pulsed laser ablation without the heating of the deposition substrate. The fluid Plateau–Rayleigh (PRI), Rayleigh–Taylor (RTI), and Richtmyer–Meshkov (RMI) instabilities, as well as the crown splash induced during the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) in the high energy regime, resulting in ring and pearl-shaped structures, offer the benefit of an increased sorption surface. These morphological structures obtained for the silver thin layers make them of interest for catalytic applications. This study addresses both fundamental and applied issues on the morphological structures obtained for the silver thin layers and their catalytic function in organic processes. In this sense, the catalytic action of the thin silver layer was highlighted by modifications of the Reactive Blue 21 dye (C.I.) in an aqueous solution with sodium bicarbonate. Specific investigations and analyses were carried out using electron microscopy and elemental analysis (SEM-EDX), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and profilometry, mass spectrometry, ablation plasma diagnosis, diffractograms (XRD), as well as IR spectroscopy (FTIR). In addition to the experimental investigation and analyses, the simulation of the ionization energy threshold was conducted in COMSOL for complementary evaluation on the involved processes and phenomena.
Land-Use Composition, Distribution Patterns, and Influencing Factors of Villages in the Hehuang Valley, Qinghai, China, Based on UAV Photogrammetry
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Xin Zhongbao
Published: June 2024

Rapid changes in land use have rendered existing data for land-use classification insufficient to meet the current data requirements for rural revitalization and improvements in the living environment. Therefore, we used unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) remote sensing imagery and an object-based human-assisted approach to obtain ultra-high-resolution land-use data for 55 villages and accurately analyzed village land-use composition and distribution patterns. The highest proportion of land use in the villages is built-up land (33.01% ± 8.89%), and the proportion of road land is 17.76% ± 6.92%. The proportions for forest land and grassland are 16.41% ± 7.80% and 6.51% ± 4.93%, respectively. The average size of the villages is 25.85 ± 17.93 hm2, which is below the national average. The villages have a relatively scattered distribution, mostly concentrated on both sides of the main roads. The correlation analysis indicates that mean annual temperature (MAT) and annual precipitation (AP) are the primary factors influencing the land-use composition of villages, with contribution rates of 50.56% and 12.51%, respectively. The use of UAV remote sensing imagery to acquire ultra-high-resolution land-use data will provide a scientific basis for the planning of the living environment in the villages of the Hehuang Valley.
Evaluating Machine-Learning Algorithms for Mapping LULC of the uMngeni Catchment Area, KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Bhungeni Orlando , Ramjatan Ashadevi , Gebreslasie Michael
Published: June 2024

Analysis of land use/land cover (LULC) in catchment areas is the first action toward safeguarding freshwater resources. LULC information in the watershed has gained popularity in the natural science field as it helps water resource managers and environmental health specialists develop natural resource conservation strategies based on available quantitative information. Thus, remote sensing is the cornerstone in addressing environmental-related issues at the catchment level. In this study, the performance of four machine learning algorithms (MLAs), namely Random Forests (RFs), Support Vector Machines (SVMs), Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), and Naïve Bayes (NB), were investigated to classify the catchment into nine relevant classes of the undulating watershed landscape using Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (L8-OLI) imagery. The assessment of the MLAs was based on a visual inspection of the analyst and commonly used assessment metrics, such as user’s accuracy (UA), producers’ accuracy (PA), overall accuracy (OA), and the kappa coefficient. The MLAs produced good results, where RF (OA = 97.02%, Kappa = 0.96), SVM (OA = 89.74%, Kappa = 0.88), ANN (OA = 87%, Kappa = 0.86), and NB (OA = 68.64%, Kappa = 0.58). The results show the outstanding performance of the RF model over SVM and ANN with a significant margin. While NB yielded satisfactory results, its sensitivity to limited training samples could primarily influence these results. In contrast, the robust performance of RF could be due to an ability to classify high-dimensional data with limited training data.
Potential of Earth Observation to Assess the Impact of Climate Change and Extreme Weather Events in Temperate Forests—A Review
Authors: Wegler Marco , Kuenzer Claudia
Published: June 2024

Temperate forests are particularly exposed to climate change and the associated increase in weather extremes. Droughts, storms, late frosts, floods, heavy snowfalls, or changing climatic conditions such as rising temperatures or more erratic precipitation are having an increasing impact on forests. There is an urgent need to better assess the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events (EWEs) on temperate forests. Remote sensing can be used to map forests at multiple spatial, temporal, and spectral resolutions at low cost. Different approaches to forest change assessment offer promising methods for a broad analysis of the impacts of climate change and EWEs. In this review, we examine the potential of Earth observation for assessing the impacts of climate change and EWEs in temperate forests by reviewing 126 scientific papers published between 1 January 2014 and 31 January 2024. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the sensors utilized, the spatial and temporal resolution of the studies, their spatial distribution, and their thematic focus on the various abiotic drivers and the resulting forest responses. The analysis indicates that multispectral, non-high-resolution timeseries were employed most frequently. A predominant proportion of the studies examine the impact of droughts. In all instances of EWEs, dieback is the most prevailing response, whereas in studies on changing trends, phenology shifts account for the largest share of forest response categories. The detailed analysis of in-depth forest differentiation implies that area-wide studies have so far barely distinguished the effects of different abiotic drivers at the species level.
Multi-Dimensional Decomposition, Measurement, and Governance Mechanism of Relative Poverty in Chinese Households under the Goal of Common Prosperity: Empirical Analysis Based on CFPS2020 Data
Authors: He Xuming , Xi Heng , Li Xianbo
Published: June 2024

From the perspective of household productivity, this paper analyzes the capital composition of the household and the formation mechanism of relative poverty. Based on the CFPS data in 2020, it uses the Alkire–Foster (AF) index to measure the breadth and depth of relative poverty in different regions and puts forward its governance mechanism. The results show that there are significant differences between urban and rural areas and among different regions. The relative poverty incidence rate is mainly concentrated in four indicators, accounting for 30.8% of the total number of indicators. From high to low, the incidences of relative poverty in a single dimension include financial assets, livelihood assets, health, and employment levels. The breadth is mainly reflected in economic capital, health, employment, and education level. The depth is reflected in financial assets, health level, and social network indicators. Except for the social capital dimension, the poverty in rural areas is higher than urban areas, and the central and western regions are higher than the eastern regions, showing a distinct characteristic of imbalanced urban–rural and regional development. This paper proposes the relative poverty governance mechanism of households’ capital accumulation, urban–rural integrated development and regional coordinated development.
The Influence of Technological Innovation Capability on Sustainable Supply Chain Management Implementation—Evidence from Patent-Intensive Industries
Authors: Feng Bo , Jalali Mehrnaz
Published: June 2024

The technological innovation capability of enterprises has many functions and many influences on the implementation of sustainable supply chain management. The study aims to shed light on how technological innovation capabilities (TICs) affect the implementation of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) and how they can help organizations overcome internal barriers to SSCM implementation. This descriptive survey was conducted in the context of Iran. The survey was carried out with 27 responses, which were analyzed by one-sample t-test to determine the relationships between variables, and the Friedman test to rank the results. This study employs SPSS for statistical analysis. The study reveals that all TICs have a substantial effect on SSCM implementation in general, especially the learning capability, resource allocation capability, and manufacturing capability, which all have an almost identical positive and significant effect on SSCM implementation. Interestingly, organizing capability had the least influence on SSCM implementation. In addition, the results demonstrating improved TICs could assist firms in overcoming internal barriers to SSCM implementation. From a practical standpoint, the relationship between TICs and SSCM implementation and its barriers may give insight into how organizations can enhance their SSCM implementation by improving TICs. Moreover, policymakers and sustainable supply chain managers in Iran can benefit from the identified relationships in this study. This study is one of the first to analyze the impact of TICs on SSCM implementation, and the findings provide a novel paradigm for understanding how TICs influence the implementation of SSCM.
Smart Reserve Planning Using Machine Learning Methods in Power Systems with Renewable Energy Sources
Authors: Atiç Serdal , Izgi Ercan
Published: June 2024

Estimation of the power obtained from intermittent renewable energy sources (IRESs) is an important issue for the integration of these power plants into the power system. In this study, the expected power not served (EPNS) formula, a reliability criterion for power systems, is developed with a new method that takes into consideration the power generated from IRESs and the consumed power (CP) estimation errors. In the proposed method, CP, generated wind power (GWP), and generated solar power (GSP) predictions made with machine learning methods are included in the EPNS formulation. The most accurate prediction results were obtained with the Multi Layer Perceptron (MLP), Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM), and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) algorithms used for prediction, and these results were compared. Using different forecasting methods, the relation between forecast accuracy, reserve requirement, and total cost was examined. Reliability, smart reserve planning (SRP), and total cost analysis for power systems were carried out with the CNN algorithm, which provides the most successful prediction result among the prediction algorithms used. The effect of increasing the limit EPNS value allowed by the power system operator, that is, reducing the system reliability, on the reserve requirement and total cost has been revealed. This study provides a useful proposal for the integration of IRESs, such as solar and wind power plants, into power systems.
“Waste Is Wealth”: Circular Economy Strategies from Media Persuasion to Utilization
Authors: Jongsuksomsakul Panida
Published: June 2024

Circular economy strategies encompassing “Waste is Wealth” (also known as “Waste is Gold”) policies in Thailand have been popularised through various media. This study focused on a community of people in the central north of Thailand and their ”return waste for money” practices, with 403 participants surveyed in mid-2022. The analysis of their responses, using descriptive and inferential statistics, identified the factors contributing to the gap between the available information in the media regarding the existence of regulations and policies addressing the recycling and reusing of waste and people’s responses to that information. Residents’ knowledge and understanding of proper waste management, derived from the media, were essential elements in educating communities. The collection and disposal of garbage were handled very differently between the rural and urban communities, with different municipalities making different provisions for residents’ waste disposal. Our analysis showed that a holistic approach was needed, particularly including the publication of comprehensive and understandable information on government policies and regulations, the differentiation of waste material types, garbage and waste collection, and disposal methods, including returning, recycling, and reuse, which were identified as being necessary for effective and efficient waste disposal and encouraging recycling and reuse. It was shown that without valid information available via social media and the mass media, peoples’ attitudes and behaviours will not change and the recycling of plastic waste materials will be limited, even with the promise of Waste is Wealth.
Estimating the Impact of a Recuperative Approach on the Efficiency of Thermoelectric Cooling
Authors: Jurķāns Vilnis , Blūms Juris
Published: June 2024

Thermoelectric cooling is a prospective technology that has a lot of advantages; however, its main drawback is its low efficiency compared to other technologies. A lot of scientific research is aimed at the improvement of the efficiency of thermoelectric cooling, including the development of new thermoelectric materials, innovative structures, and better power management strategies. The present work further explores a self-developed recuperative power management approach, which takes advantage of the thermoelectric element’s ability to work as an electrical generator. This study relied on the thermal–electrical analogy method to develop a model that is capable of describing the impact of recuperation on the cooling performance while preserving the simplest configuration possible. The influence of different variables was estimated by three suggested quantities for evaluating the gains, losses, and rationality of the recuperative approach. A recovery of up to 10% of the electrical energy supplied to the thermoelectric element was observed experimentally. The ratio between the recovered energy and induced heat losses did not exceed a factor of 0.9. It is concluded that the recuperation process is reasonable only in the case of unavoidable interruption of the cooling process when average-performance thermoelectric elements are used.
Exploring Employee Retention among Generation Z Engineers in the Philippines Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Bautista Paula Zeah N. , Cahigas Maela Madel L.
Published: June 2024

Generation Z represents a significant portion of the current workforce and is poised to become dominant in the engineering field. As the new generation arises, employee retention becomes a crucial topic in the Philippines. Hence, this study explored the factors influencing employee retention among Generation Z engineers in the Philippines using machine learning feature selection (filter method’s permutation, wrapper method’s backward elimination, and embedded method’s Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator) and classifiers (support vector and random forest). A total of 412 participants were gathered through a purposive sampling technique. The results showed that six out of seven investigated features were found to be significant factors impacting Generation Z engineers’ intention to remain in a company. These six features were supervisor support, company attachment, job satisfaction, contribution, emotional support, and shared value, organized in descending order of feature importance. These were further explained by fifteen significant subfeatures representing each feature. Only one feature, servant leadership, was deemed insignificant. These findings were extracted from the optimal combination of machine learning algorithms. Particularly, feature selection’s backward elimination brought 85.66% accuracy, and the random forest classifier further enhanced the accuracy value to 90.10%. In addition, the model’s precision, recall, and F1-score values were 89.50%, 90.10%, and 88.90%, respectively. This research also provided practical insights for the company executives, organizational leaders, and human resources department seeking to enhance employee retention strategies. These implications were based on the significant features influencing Generation Z engineers’ retention, ultimately contributing to the long-term success and competitiveness of organizations.
The Relationship between Climate Anxiety and Pro-Environment Behaviours
Authors: Coates Zac , Kelly Michelle , Brown Scott
Published: June 2024

Previous studies examining psychological distress associated with climate change have found cognitive, affective and behavioural influences. This distress, termed climate anxiety, is thought to be chronic in nature, and may result in long-lasting and significant negative impacts on mental health. The present study examined how climate anxiety may be impacting people’s frequency of pro-environment behaviours. To effectively measure participants’ behavioural frequency and preferences, we used a discrete choice experiment, which simulated a transport scenario where participants would have to make trade-offs between cost, time and eco-friendliness. A total of 256 participants (95 male, 161 female) completed the study. It was found that participants with moderate levels of climate anxiety had a higher frequency of pro-environment behaviours than participants with low or high levels of climate anxiety. Furthermore, participants with low or high levels of climate anxiety gave a higher preference for options that cost less or take less time. This evidence supports the hypothesis that moderate levels of climate anxiety may be optimal for pro-environmental behavioural response.
A Case Study and Scientific Nexus of a Hybrid Solar and Wind Power Plant with a Heat Pump for Emission Decarbonization
Authors: Osintsev Konstantin V. , Solomin Evgeny V. , Ryavkin Gleb N. , Pshenisnov Nikita A.
Published: June 2024

During the operation of any source of electrical energy, thermal energy is also generated. The heating of generator parts is accompanied by the loss of the efficiency of the entire system as a whole and eventually leads to failure. In order to remove the heat load from generators based on renewable energy, such as wind turbines and solar panels, it is possible to use heat pumps based on various refrigerants. This article presents a comparative analysis of methods for evaluating the efficiency of the technological process, using the example of increasing the efficiency of the heat pump based on the heat produced by renewable energy installations. An example of improving the efficiency of a laboratory stand is used. Exergetic calculation, fluid selection, an analysis of external sources and emission reduction were performed. This thermal energy transmission system uses a solar panel as an additional low-potential source of heat. Options for increasing the energy efficiency of the installation are considered. An assessment of the reduction in emissions when using an equivalent diesel power plant was carried out using the developed mathematical model.
Valuing Blue Spaces for Health and Wellbeing from the Community Perspective
Authors: Afentou Nafsika , Jackson Louise , Andrade Luiz Flavio , Elliott Stephanie , Hull Katrina , Shepherd Jenny , Frew Emma
Published: June 2024

Blue spaces, like canals, are central to health policies promoting physical activity (PA), enhancing wellbeing, and addressing inequalities. Alongside the health benefits, they can offer an array of societal, environmental, cultural, and other welfare-enhancing benefits, which shape the overall value of blue spaces for population wellbeing. This study investigated the multifaceted value of canals for promoting physical activity and wider community wellbeing from the perspective of local community members in Birmingham (UK). Two consensus workshops were conducted to identify enablers and barriers to engaging in PA alongside canals. Data were generated using the nominal group technique and analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. The community members shared that connecting with nature, enhancing mental health, and socialising were all key facilitators for using canals for PA. Prominent barriers identified were safety concerns, including anti-social behaviour, inadequate lighting, and fear of visiting alone, as well as a lack of accessibility. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of understanding the community perspective when considering the value of blue spaces, and subsequent investment opportunities. By incorporating the community perspective and embedding a notion of ‘ownership’ over these local assets, this will further enhance the sustainability of investment.
Investigation of the Coupling and Coordination Relationship of Water–Energy–Food–Ecology and the Driving Mechanism in Dalad Banner
Authors: Zhou Quancheng , Tan Hanze , Zhang Zezhong , Zhang Weijie , Wang Fei , Qu Jihong , Wu Yingjie , Wang Wenjun , Liu Yong , Zhang Dequan , Wang Yongsheng , Feng Kai
Published: June 2024

Aiming at the complex problems of water resources, energy, food, and ecology in ten parallel tributaries directly joining the Yellow River in Ordos City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (the Ten Kongduis), the coordination of the water–energy–food–ecology (WEFE) system in Dalad Banner and its townships was studied from the perspective of system coupling in time and space. First, the evaluation index system of WEFE coupling coordination is constructed, and then the coupling coordination degree model, grey relationship degree model, and geographical detector are used to quantitatively evaluate the development level and spatio-temporal evolution characteristics of WEFE coordination in Dalad Banner and its townships and explore its driving mechanism. The results suggest that (1) the WEFE comprehensive evaluation index of Dalad Banner and its townships showed a slowly rising trend on the whole. The growth trends for the WEFE subsystems and integrated assessment are 0.65%, 21.02%, 17.01%, 1.17%, and 9.96%, respectively. This shows that the energy subsystem occupies the main position. (2) The coupling degree of WEFE in Dalad Banner and its townships is high; the mean value is 0.967, which is in the high-level coupling stage. But the coordination degree is low; the mean value is 0.668, which is in the elementary coordination stage. The spatial development is unbalanced and uncoordinated in Dalad Banner; this phenomenon mainly exists in the eastern part of Dalad Banner, with a gradual change from the west to the center of the area with higher harmonization. (3) The coordination of the WEFE system of Dalad Banner and its townships shows a good trend. The average coupling coordination degree in Wangaizhao town has the largest increasing trend, which is 12.69%. Fengshuiliang Town has the smallest growth trend, which is −10.37%. The region is gradually developing to the stage of well coordination, and each township has basically entered the middle-rank coordination stage. (4) In general, in the degree of system impact, the ecological impact is the largest and the grain is the weakest. In terms of spatial differences, energy has the greatest impact, while water has the least explanatory power. In terms of interaction, the interaction among water resources, grain, and ecology has the greatest explanatory power. The influence of WEFE in Dalad Banner coupling coordination changes obviously with time, and the driving mechanism and stability are relatively weak. The results of this study can provide a decision basis for the coordinated development of WEFE and the high-quality and sustainable development of Dalad Banner and its townships.
Cross-Cultural Behaviors: A Comparative Analysis of Driving Behaviors in Pakistan and China
Authors: Yousaf Adnan , Wu Jianping
Published: June 2024

When analyzing road safety across cultural boundaries, driver behavior is a crucial component to consider. Given that driver behavior directly affects both the likelihood of accidents and the severity of their implications, it is crucial to comprehend and analyze it. The present study examined the differences in dangerous, aberrant, and positive driving behaviors across China and Pakistan. The effects of these behaviors on road traffic accidents were also considered. In the study, 1253 respondents completed a questionnaire package consisting of the Dula Dangerous Driving Index (DDDI), Aberrant Driving Behavior Questionnaire (DBQ), Positive Driving Behavior Scale (PDBS), and items related to demographics. Generalized linear models were utilized to compare and determine the factors responsible for dangerous driving behaviors. Mean scores for DBQ and PDBS items were compared. Finally, binary logistic regression models were used to find the factors responsible for traffic accidents across both countries. The results indicated that aggressive and risky driving predicted traffic accidents in both countries, followed by errors and violations, which also predicted traffic accidents significantly. Positive driving behaviors predicted accidents negatively in both samples. Furthermore, it was found that Chinese drivers compared to Pakistani drivers are less aggressive and risk-taking and commit fewer violations and errors while driving. To increase road safety in Pakistan, traffic laws must be strictly enforced uniformly, and violations must result in severe penalties, i.e., demerit points or cancellation of a driver’s license. Programs for road safety awareness and education must be expanded. Employing national culturally concentrated road safety strategies may be a more effective way to encourage safe driving behaviors.