bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Fiercely Debated Questions of a Chinese Metaphysics and a Tradition of Early Daoism: Western and Chinese Perspectives on the Daodejing and Huang-Lao Daoism
Authors: Michael Thomas
Published: October 2023

Two long-standing and fiercely debated issues remain central to contemporary studies on Chinese philosophy. The first concerns whether there was an early tradition of metaphysics, and the second concerns whether there was an early tradition of Daoism. This study engages with both issues simultaneously, since if there was a tradition of early Chinese metaphysics, then it is identifiable with Huang-Lao Daoism, and if Huang-Lao Daoism constituted an early Chinese tradition, then it is identifiable with the tradition of Chinese metaphysics. This study engages with these issues in two parts. The first part examines Western and Chinese perspectives concerning what is entailed by claims that there was or was not an early tradition of Chinese metaphysics and that there was or was not an early tradition identifiable as Huang-Lao Daoism. The second part is an analysis of contemporary Chinese scholarship that, deeply grounded in the growing collection of early Chinese excavated manuscripts, both affirms the dynamic existence of early Chinese metaphysics and the vibrant existence of an early tradition identifiable with Huang-Lao Daoism. Throughout, this study attempts to concurrently build on the work of contemporary Chinese scholars for reading certain early Chinese writings often held as Daoist, but instead of agreeing with them that Laozi’s Daodejing represents an early blossoming of metaphysics, it argues that his work is grounded in an originally non-metaphysical philosophy of the Dao that Huang-Lao Daoism transformed into a metaphysics, thereby originating the tradition of early Chinese metaphysics.
Entity Embeddings in Remote Sensing: Application to Deformation Monitoring for Infrastructure
Authors: Bayaraa Maral , Rossi Cristian , Kalaitzis Freddie , Sheil Brian
Published: October 2023

There is a critical need for a global monitoring capability for Tailings Storage Facilities (TSFs), to help protect the surrounding communities and the environment. Satellite Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (InSAR) shows much promise towards this ambition. However, extracting meaningful information and interpreting the deformation patterns from InSAR data can be a challenging task. One approach to address this challenge is through the use of data science techniques. In this study, the representation of InSAR metadata as Entity Embeddings within a Deep Learning framework (EE-DL) is investigated for modelling the spatio-temporal deformation response. Entity embeddings are commonly used in natural-language-processing tasks. They represent discrete objects, such as words, as continuous, low-dimensional vectors that can be manipulated mathematically. We demonstrate that EE-DL can be used to predict anomalous patterns in the InSAR time series. To evaluate the performance of the EE-DL approach in SAR interferometry, we conducted experiments over a mining test site (Cadia, Australia), which has been subject to a TSF failure. This study demonstrated that EE-DL can detect and predict the fine spatial movement patterns that eventually resulted in the failure. We also compared the results with deformation predictions from common baseline models, the Random Forest model and Gaussian Process Regression (GPR). Both EE-DL and GPR greatly outperform Random Forest. While GPR is also able to predict displacement patterns with millimetric accuracy, it detects a significantly lower number of anomalies compared to EE-DL. Overall, our study showed that EE-DL is a promising approach for building early-warning systems for critical infrastructures that use InSAR to predict ground deformations.
Use of CdZnTe Quasi-Hemispherical Detectors under the Impact of Low Temperatures and High-Gamma Radiation Fluxes
Authors: Ivanov Victor , Fjodorovs Viktors , Loutchanski Anatoli , Piskunovs Maksims , Ivanovs Valerijs
Published: October 2023

This article discusses the possibilities and limitations of CdZnTe (CZT) quasi-hemispherical detectors operating over a wide temperature range and at high-gamma radiation fluxes. The results of the negative influence of low- and high-operating temperatures, as well as high-radiation fluxes on spectrometric characteristics of CZT detectors and possible ways to eliminate performance deterioration, are presented. The impact of infrared (IR) illumination parameters, such as wavelength and irradiation intensity on the spectroscopy performance of detectors, was investigated. A correctly chosen IR illumination wavelength and intensity were shown to significantly improve the energy resolution of CZT quasi-hemispherical detectors, allowing their stable operation in high-gamma radiation fluxes and extend the operating temperature range toward low temperatures. The influences of bias voltage values and temperatures on the quasi-hemispherical CZT detectors’ operating ability at high-gamma radiation fluxes were studied.
Two Complementary Approaches toward Geodetic Monitoring of a Historic Wooden Church to Inspect Its Static and Dynamic Behavior
Authors: Pawlak Zdzisław Mikołaj , Wyczałek Ireneusz , Marciniak Piotr
Published: October 2023

To support the conservation efforts regarding a wooden church in Domachowo, extensive research and design work was required to strengthen its weakened structure. A variety of data and analyses are necessary to make an accurate assessment, including obtaining a dimensional model, monitoring the behavior of the structure and its response to external forces, and also performing strength analyses and verifying them with measurement data. For accurate geometric evaluation, static and dynamic measurements were required. A mathematical model and a flowchart of the necessary tasks were developed, along with the selection and installation of measuring devices. For this particular structure, static measurements were made using an automatic total station, and dynamic measurements using tilt sensors. The purpose of the analysis was to correlate the inertia measurements with the absolute tachymetric observations related to reference points fixed outside the object in order to accurately assess the behavior of the object. Another important issue was to model the column element under study in such a way that its horizontal displacements could be determined from the measured inclinations. The obtained results indicated the need to strengthen the joints of the two main parts of the structure in order to minimize the impact of dynamic weather conditions. The paper describes the measurement process, the method of calculating displacements, and the correlation of both types of data. Selected results confirming the conclusions are also presented.
Unlocking the Future: Fostering Human–Machine Collaboration and Driving Intelligent Automation through Industry 5.0 in Smart Cities
Authors: Adel Amr
Published: October 2023

In the quest to meet the escalating demands of citizens, future smart cities emerge as crucial entities. Their role becomes even more vital given the current challenges posed by rapid urbanization and the need for sustainable and inclusive living spaces. At the heart of these future smart cities are advancements in information and communication technologies, with Industry 5.0 playing an increasingly significant role. This paper endeavors to conduct an exhaustive survey to analyze future technologies, including the potential of Industry 5.0 and their implications for smart cities. The crux of the paper is an exploration of technological advancements across various domains that are set to shape the future of urban environments. The discussion spans diverse areas including but not limited to cyber–physical systems, fog computing, unmanned aerial vehicles, renewable energy, machine learning, deep learning, cybersecurity, and digital forensics. Additionally, the paper sheds light on the specific role of Industry 5.0 in the smart city context, illuminating its impact on enabling advanced cybersecurity measures, fostering human–machine collaboration, driving intelligent automation in urban services, and refining data management and decision making. The paper also offers an in-depth review of the existing frameworks that are shaping smart city applications, evaluating how Industry 5.0 technologies could augment these frameworks. In particular, the paper delves into the various technological challenges that smart cities face, bringing potential Industry 5.0-enabled solutions to the fore.
Flood Risk Assessment Based on a Cloud Model in Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Liu Jian , Wang Kangjie , Lv Shan , Fan Xiangtao , He Haixia
Published: October 2023

Floods are serious threats to the safety of people’s lives and property. This paper systematically introduces the basic theories and methods of flood risk assessment, takes Sichuan Province as the study area, and establishes a flood risk assessment index system with 14 indicators in four aspects—disaster-causing factors, disaster-forming environment, disaster-bearing body, and regional disaster resilience capacity—from the causes of disaster losses and flood formation mechanisms. Furthermore, this paper constructs a flood disaster risk assessment model for Sichuan Province based on a cloud model, entropy value, and GIS technology. The model is validated by taking the July–August 2023 flood disaster as an example, and the results show that the distribution of the disaster was consistent with the flood risk assessment results of this paper, which verifies that the selected indicators are appropriate and the model is accurate and valid.
Application of the Time Function Model for Dynamic Deformation Prediction in Mining Areas under Characteristic Constraints
Authors: Wang Zhihong , Dai Huayang , Yan Yueguan , Ren Jintong , Liu Jibo , Zhang Yanjun , Xu Guosheng
Published: October 2023

The fundamental model for dynamically predicting surface subsidence is the time influence function. However, current research and the application of time functions often neglect the comprehensive characteristics of the entire surface deformation process, leading to a less systematic representation of the actual deformation law. To rectify this, we explore ground point deformation along the strike line from two perspectives: dynamic subsidence and dynamic horizontal movement. Moreover, we develop prediction models for dynamic subsidence and dynamic horizontal movement at any point along the strike line, utilizing the probability integral method (PIM) and considering the surface deformation features. We then use characteristic constraints based on the prediction models to constrain the time influence function. For this purpose, we employ the Richards time function which has strong universality to establish the time functions for dynamic subsidence and horizontal movement under these constraints. We provide an illustrative example of its application in the 12,401 working face. Additionally, we explore the suitability of interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) technology for acquiring dynamic subsidence data on the surface. The experimental findings reveal the following key observations: the Richards model, when applied for dynamic subsidence prediction under constraints, exhibits high accuracy with an R-squared (R2) value of 0.997 and a root mean squared error (RMSE) of 94.6 mm, along with a relative mean square error of 1.9%. Meanwhile, the dynamic horizontal movement prediction model exhibits an accuracy in fully mined areas with an R2 of 0.986, an RMSE of 46.2 mm, and a relative mean square error of 2.6%.
The Influence of Construction Methods on the Stability of Tunnels and Ground Structures in the Construction of Urban Intersection Tunnels
Authors: Ren Yiwei , Zhou Shijun , Jia Jiayin , Yuan Qiang , Liu Maoyi , Song Shuyi , Zhou Zelin , Wang Zhen
Published: October 2023

The construction of intersection tunnels in urban induces multiple stress redistribution in the surrounding rock, leading to engineering disasters such as instability in rock strata during excavation, disturbance of supporting structures in existing tunnels, and subsidence of ground adjacent buildings. Employing an appropriate construction method is crucial in circumventing excessive stress concentrations and large-scale rock strata subsidence, making it a key aspect of urban intersection tunnel engineering. In this paper, a numerical model for an urban intersection tunnel is developed based on an underground circular road project in a central business district. We conduct numerical simulations of the excavation processes using the full-section method, step method, and center cross diagram (CRD) method, respectively. The findings indicate that while different construction methods do not change the variation trends of surrounding rock stress and displacement, adjacent ground building deformation, and existing tunnel convergence, they affect the variation degrees. The maximum compressive and tensile stresses in the surrounding rock caused by the CRD method are the smallest, which are 3.56 MPa and 0.76 MPa, respectively. The maximum arch subsidence affected the amount, and horizontal convergence affected the amount of branch tunnel #1 caused by the CRD method are the smallest too, which respectively are 1.428 mm and 0.931 mm. The foundation subsidence and overall inclination of the ground building resulting from the three methods are identical. Then, we discuss the construction safety of the three methods and obtain the influence order on construction stability, which is as follows: full-section method > step method > CRD method. It is concluded that the CRD method is the most suitable for urban intersection tunnel engineering in terms of safety. This study could offer valuable insights for selecting construction methods in urban intersection tunnel engineering and provide a foundation for evaluating the safety and stability of tunnel construction.
Carbon Distribution Characteristics and Sequestration Potential of Various Land-Use Types in a Stony Soil Zone of the Arid Mountainous Regions on the Eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Han Yunwei , Wang Qing , Li Fucheng , Guo Yalin , Shen Songtao , Luo Guohui , Zheng Yuting
Published: October 2023

In arid mountainous areas with stony soils in the Eastern Tibetan Plateau, intensively managed orchards (which include the need for plowing, irrigation, and soil stone removal), eco-forests, and grasslands, all converted from croplands, are becoming increasingly popular. We randomly collected soil samples at 0–15, 15–30, 30–45, and 45–60 cm depths from the four land-use types on the northern and southern slopes in the region. Differences in soil organic carbon (SOC) content/stock, soil water content (SWC), and rock fragment content (RFC) in land-use types and slopes were analyzed using two-way ANOVA. The factors’ contributions to SOC variation were assessed using mixed-effect models. Results showed the following: (1) In topsoil (0–30 cm), SOC contents followed the order eco-forest > orchard > grassland ≈ cropland; in subsoil (30–60 cm), the order was orchard > eco-forest > cropland ≈ grassland. SOC stocks (0–60 cm) were higher in orchards (93.72 Mg ha−1) and eco-forests (92.44 Mg ha−1) than in grasslands (53.65 Mg ha−1) and croplands (53.05 Mg ha−1). Contributions of SOC stocks at the 0–15 cm depth level to total SOC were above 40% for GL and EF and between 27 and 35% for OL and CL; at the 45–60 cm level, OL contributed 16–20% and was higher than 10–15% for the other land-use types. (2) Eco-forests and grasslands showed increased SOC contents/stocks at all soil layers on the northern slope than on the southern one. Orchards and croplands, however, showed no differences in contents between slopes. (3) Land-use types, TN, SWC, RFC, slope aspect, and management practices significantly affected SOC variation. Our results suggest that forest plantations (orchards and eco-forests) in arid mountainous regions, through active management practices (e.g., irrigation and fertilization), are vital for improving soil carbon sinks and achieving peak carbon/carbon neutrality goals.
Achieving SDG 4, Equitable Quality Education after COVID-19: Global Evidence and a Case Study of Kazakhstan
Authors: Durrani Naureen , Qanay Gulmira , Mir Ghazala , Helmer Janet , Polat Filiz , Karimova Nazerke , Temirbekova Assel
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the impact of two years of emergency distance schooling on achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4—equitable quality education, both globally and in Kazakhstan. The study used a qualitative research design. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 teachers and 30 parents, while focus group discussions (FGDs) were utilised to gather the perspective of 28 students. The conceptual framework developed puts effective pedagogy at the heart of quality distance education, nested within four supportive factors—digital infrastructure; policy guidelines about pedagogy; curriculum and assessments; professional development in digital pedagogy; and the home environment. The study found that distance schooling in Kazakhstan has undermined progress on SDG 4 and worsened inequalities in access to quality education despite the distribution of digital devices to disadvantaged children and teachers. While mainstream public school teachers transitioned to distance school without any systematic preparation, provision of digital resources or clear policy guidelines, schoolteachers at elite public institutions received meticulous guidance and support. Despite later receiving professional development in digital pedagogy and access to digital resources and platforms, public school teachers in rural and deprived urban areas still faced challenges due to fragmented internet connectivity. This limited interactive and communicative pedagogy, particularly in rural and public schools, and hindered teachers’ ability to assess the impact of their teaching on student outcomes. Policy initiatives failed to mitigate disadvantages in the home environment for low-income families, parents with limited education and working parents, especially mothers, who primarily supported homeschooling. Recommendations are offered for adapting education provision and envisioning more robust education quality to achieve SDG 4 and address historical inequities in a post-pandemic world.
Influential Effect and Mechanism of Digital Finance on Urban Land Use Efficiency in China
Authors: Qiu Haiyang , Li Xin , Zhang Long
Published: October 2023

With the acceleration of urbanization, the carrying capacity of urban land resources is increasingly being challenged. Thus, urban land use efficiency (ULUE) has been a crucial issue in sustainable development, and digital finance (DF) has been thought to be an effective solution for solving this dilemma. Based on panel data from 283 cities in China spanning from 2011 to 2020, this study first utilized the super-efficiency SBM model to assess ULUE across China. Then, the panel Tobit model was employed to empirically examine the overall impact of DF on ULUE, while the intermediary effect model was utilized to analyze the indirect impact of DF on ULUE. Additionally, the threshold effect model was employed to investigate the non-linear characteristics of the impact of DF on ULUE. The findings indicate that: (1) DF can enhance ULUE, with the dimension of application depth of DF exerting the most significant impact, followed by the dimensions of coverage breadth and digitization degree of DF; (2) DF can boost ULUE by promoting industrial structure upgrading (ISU); (3) the promotional effect of DF on ULUE exhibits regional variations, with a stronger impact observed in the western region and provincial capital cities, but weaker effects noted in the eastern and central regions as well as non-provincial capital cities; (4) with the improvement of economic development and DF, the impact of DF on ULUE exhibits a slightly increasing nonlinear trend. The research findings presented in this paper offer valuable insights for enhancing ULUE in emerging economies.
Reverse Logistics of Packaging Waste under the Conditions of a Sustainable Circular Economy at the Level of the European Union States
Authors: Scrioșteanu Adriana , Criveanu Maria Magdalena
Published: October 2023

The efficient use of natural resources and the quality of the environment are the main priorities of sustainable development. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the role of reverse logistics in the context of sustainable development, starting from the premise that it combines environmental and economic objectives and aims to minimize the wastage of resources through the reuse of products and packaging. In the current context, the circular economy must be approached by considering the methods of waste collection and reuse, with reverse logistics playing an essential role in creating environmental, economic, and social benefits. The growing population obviously determines the increase in the consumption of resources, which inevitably leads to the increasing generation of packaging and packaging waste. This study aimed to highlight the evolution of recycling rates at the level of the EU member states, starting from the stability objectives of the European Commission for the years 2025–2030. Starting from the Eurostat database, for the 27 member states of the European Union, regarding the recovery rate, recycle rate, and waste generation kg_per_capita related to the period of 2009–2020, we extrapolated the trends of the recycling rate of packaging for the period of 2021–2030 with the help of the Prophet model. Using the Prophet forecasting program, we identified states from the European Union that will meet the stability targets set by the European Commission for the years 2025 to 2030, considering the need to develop a circular economy.
Study on the Evolution of Tailings Dam Break Disaster under Complex Environment
Authors: Luo Changtai , Li Dongwei , Xu Bin
Published: October 2023

In response to the challenges posed by rapid development, the wide-ranging disaster impact, and the untimely warning of debris flow resulting from tailing dam failure, it is of great significance to study the mechanism of dam failure as well as the evolution law and affected area of debris flow for effective disaster prediction and risk assessment. We developed a 1:150 physical model for testing tailing dam failure and combined it with RAMMS (V1.7.0) debris flow software to investigate the mechanisms of tailing dam failure and the evolutionary patterns of rock flows in complex environments. Through the analysis and comparison of experimental data, we comprehensively summarized the consequences of disaster risk resulting from dam failure. The results show that the grain size distribution of the model sand should be moderate; the composition of the particle size distribution has a significant impact on the collapse morphology of the dam after failure. The saturation line is the lifeline for the stability of the wake reservoir, and its level determines the degree of saturation of the wake in the reservoir. The breach was at the midpoint of the crest of the dam. The inflow volume at the time of the breach was 0.313 m3. According to the flow ratio relationship, the inflow volume at breach occurrence was equivalent to 1.78 times the total amount of a 1000-year flood and 1.19 times the total amount of a probable maximum flood (PMF). Analysis of the surface flow field revealed that the region with the highest flow velocity extended from the toe of the dam to Shangdi village; the impact on the village of Shizhou was limited to the backflow of the dam break and the gradual sedimentation of the tailings.
Determination of Optimal Spatial Sample Sizes for Fitting Negative Binomial-Based Crash Prediction Models with Consideration of Statistical Modeling Assumptions
Authors: Koloushani Mohammadreza , Abazari Seyed Reza , Vanli Omer Arda , Ozguven Eren Erman , Moses Ren , Giroux Rupert , Jacobs Benjamin
Published: October 2023

Transportation authorities aim to boost road safety by identifying risky locations and applying suitable safety measures. The Highway Safety Manual (HSM) is a vital resource for US transportation professionals, aiding in the creation of Safety Performance Functions (SPFs), which are predictive models for crashes. These models rely on negative binomial distribution-based regression and misinterpreting them due to unmet statistical assumptions can lead to erroneous conclusions, including inaccurately assessing crash rates or missing high-risk sites. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has introduced context classifications to HSM SPFs, complicating the assumption of violation identification. This study, part of an FDOT-sponsored project, investigates the established statistical diagnostic tests to identify model violations and proposes a novel approach to determine the optimal spatial regions for empirical Bayes adjustment. This adjustment aligns HSM SPFs with regression assumptions. This study employs a case study involving Florida roads. Results indicate that a 20-mile radius offers an optimal spatial sample size for modeling crashes of all injury levels, ensuring accurate assumptions. For severe-injury crashes, which are less frequent and harder to predict, a 60-mile radius is suggested to fulfill statistical modeling assumptions. This methodology guides FDOT practitioners in assessing the conformity of HSM SPFs with intended assumptions and determining appropriate region sizes.
A Detailed Assessment of the Power Quality Improvement of an Islanded AC Microgrid through Upgrading Conventional Grid-Feeding Current-Controlled Converters to Operate as Multifunctional Converters
Authors: Manrique Machado Sebastián de J. , Neves Juliana Cunha , da Silva Sérgio A. Oliveira , Monteiro José R. B. A. , Sampaio Leonardo Poltronieri , Campanhol Leonardo B. Garcia
Published: October 2023

The decarbonization of the global economy is one of society’s urgent objectives nowadays. Thus, the large-scale adoption of renewable energy sources, like solar and wind energy, seems to be the best pathway to achieving sustainable development. Thus, the microgrid concept has emerged as a solution to address concerns related to the intermittent nature and lack of inertia for such sources. Several studies involving microgrids have been published in the last few years. However, in most of them, power quality (PQ) disturbances and strategies to manage such disturbances are not considered, especially in the islanded operation mode. Hence, in this paper, a detailed assessment of the PQ of an islanded AC microgrid is conducted, considering the coexistence of a nonlinear load, voltage-controlled converters, and a current-controlled converter (CCC). The analyses consider two scenarios, depending on the operation mode of the CCC: (1) the CCC operating as a conventional grid-feeding converter and (2) considering a cost-effective upgrading of the conventional CCC to operate as a multifunctional converter. An experimental test bed is built to validate both scenarios. The presented results provide strong evidence that the AFF significantly improves the microgrid PQ and its suitability for dealing with PQ disturbances in real-world applications.
Stability Analysis of Strongly Weathered Muddy Slate Slopes Considering Softening Conditions of Water Immersion
Authors: Shi Yungang , Wang Jingyu , Tan Xin , Zhou Suhua , Jin Yuxuan , Yin Xin
Published: October 2023

To understand the stability of strongly weathered muddy slate slopes under water immersion effects, we obtained shear strength parameters of the weakly layered structures within this slate through direct shear tests. Point load tests were performed on in-site slate samples with varying water immersion durations to assess the water immersion’s softening impact on slate strength. Results highlight that muddy slate strength presents pronounced random variability, declining as water immersion duration increases. Drawing from shear strength parameters and the water immersion softening observed in laboratory and in-site tests, we formulated a numerical slope model that considers layered structures and water immersion conditions to evaluate slope stability. Numerical simulations suggest that the slate slope’s sliding surface, when layered, does not consistently form a basic circular arc or straight line. The slope safety factor (FOS) drops below 3, marking a notable decrease compared to a homogeneous slope (FOS = 3.22). In the model, multiple secondary sliding surfaces can emerge, leading to a sliding band with a specific thickness after introducing the random distribution of layer strength parameters. This further reduces the slope’s FOS to below 2.9. Water immersion makes slopes inclined to slide following the layered structure. If the dip angle of the slate’s layered structure is less steep than the slope’s dip angle, water immersion notably diminishes the FOS, which can dip to a minimum of 1.12.
Collaborative Development and Transportation Volume Regulation Strategy for an Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Wang Shuoqi , Wang Zhanzhong
Published: October 2023

Transportation plays an important role in urban development and the formation of urban agglomerations. Indexes including urban centrality, urban development intensity, and degree of urban development imbalance are defined to measure the level of urban development, and are taken as the basis for transportation regulation within urban agglomerations. Regulation of transportation volume is divided into static and dynamic regulation, and this paper studies static regulation. There are two purposes for static regulation. One is to solve the problems of unbalanced urban development and collaborative development, and the other is to solve the problem of rational utilization of the highway transport network in an urban agglomeration so that the total transportation volume of the urban agglomeration does not exceed the total transportation volume that the transport network can bear, realizing coordinated transport, improving transport efficiency, and reducing traffic congestion and traffic accidents. A distributed intelligent regulation model based on the principle of game control is proposed, which is divided into three layers: macro-regulation (government layer), meso-regulation (urban agglomeration layer), and micro-regulation (individual city game layer). The regulation strategies and methods of the urban agglomeration layer and individual city game layer are given, and are verified and illustrated using as the research object called the Jilin Province urban agglomeration in the northeast of China. The paper contributes to the field by presenting innovative research and provides important theories and methods for collaborative development and transportation within urban agglomerations.
Sustainable Mobility Challenges in the Latin American Context
Authors: Aprigliano Vicente , Barros Gabriel Teixeira , Santos Marcos Vinicius Silva Maia , Toro Catalina , Rojas Gonzalo , Seriani Sebastian , da Silva Marcelino Aurelio Vieira , de Oliveira Ualison Rébula
Published: October 2023

Sustainable mobility and transport are topics that have been rising exponentially since the 2000s within the academic community and society. One of the main drivers for this is the intensification of the urbanization processes on a global scale, which leads to higher demand for services and transport systems, consequently bringing more severe concern regarding social, environmental, and economic issues. However, nations do not seem to advance at the same pace regarding the proposition of policies and the implementation of strategies to promote sustainable mobility and transport. Latin American countries have long been striving to improve and implement, on a larger scale, mobility solutions toward more sustainable human agglomerations. Therefore, this article analyzes the sustainable mobility challenges in the Latin American context through a systematic literature review process. The main results show that within the Latin American context, there is a significant focus on the social inequality of mobility in urban areas, which is developed in studies through mobility indicators and modeling, participatory and other qualitative approaches, and a critical analysis of public policies. However, there is a need to explore, through alternative methodologies, such as experimental and in-situ evaluations, the paths/routes of trips within the Latin American context at different scales to promote a better understanding and strategies to advance towards more sustainable cities and mobilities and deliver a better mobility experience for citizens, adding value to the mobility itself.
Spatiotemporal Variations of Water Eutrophication and Non-Point Source Pollution Prevention and Control in the Main Stream of the Yellow River in Henan Province from 2012 to 2021
Authors: Wei Huaibin , Wang Yao , Liu Jing , Cao Yongxiao , Zhang Xinyu
Published: October 2023

Protecting the water quality of the Yellow River is of great significance to the ecological protection of the Yellow River Basin. The identification of spatiotemporal variations of the water environment and the implementation of measures to control non-point source (NPS) pollution are both key to improving the water quality. Between 2012 and 2021, we conducted assessments of eight indicators, including water temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO) and pH, chemical oxygen demand (CODMn), five-day biological oxygen demand (BOD5), total phosphorus (TP), NO3-N, and NH3-N at six sites in the main stream of the Yellow River in Henan. We explored the causes of changes in water eutrophication using multivariate statistical analysis and formulated recommendations to improve NPS pollution through adjustments in land use patterns. The results showed that temporal water eutrophication markedly decreased and it was most spatially severe in the east. The most effective control of water eutrophication was observed between 2016 and 2018. As the transition from the flood season to the non-flood season took place, the main source of NPS pollution changed from being primarily influenced by precipitation, to being predominantly attributed to agricultural runoff. We recommend addressing the increased soil erosion in the west and controlling the discharge of agricultural effluent in the east. During the flood season, the ecological interception zones can effectively intercept NPS pollution outputs. These findings offer valuable insights for future scientific management strategies to prevent and control NPS pollution in the river.
Building Information Modeling Technology Capabilities: Operationalizing the Multidimensional Construct
Authors: Cao Haiyun , Huang Minghao
Published: October 2023

The identification and leverage of the Building Information Model (BIM) technology are at the core of the successful digital transformation of the construction industry. However, due to its ability to integrate with various digital technologies and platforms, facilitating the digital and sustainable construction of the entire lifecycle of a building, BIM technology cannot be simply defined and operationalized with a single dimension of the construct. Based on the importance of multidimensional structures called for in the viewpoint of existing research and the resource-based view, we develop a second-order construct model to measure BIM technology capabilities. We define and operationalize the BIM technology capabilities, based on theory, as a reflective–reflective higher-order construct by developing and validating a 17-item scale that captures three first-order constructs. The measurement model results show strong reliability, dimensionality of the first-order measurement model, convergent validity, and discriminant validity. The multidimensional structure and instrument provide researchers with an opportunity to test the theories about the antecedents and outcomes of BIM technology capabilities, as well as the process and conditions.
Edge-of-Field Runoff Analysis following Grazing and Silvicultural Best Management Practices in Northeast Texas
Authors: Wagner Kevin L. , Gregory Lucas , Gerlich Jason A. , Rhodes Edward C. , deVilleneuve Stephanie
Published: October 2023

Landowners and natural resource agencies are seeking to better understand the benefits of best management practices (BMPs) for addressing water quality issues. Using edge-of-field and edge-of-farm runoff analysis, we compared runoff volumes and water quality between small watersheds where BMPs (e.g., prescribed grazing, silvicultural practices) were implemented and control watersheds managed using conventional practices (i.e., continuous grazing, natural forest revegetation). Flow-weighted samples, collected over a 2-year period using automated samplers, were analyzed for nitrate/nitrite nitrogen (NNN), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), total phosphorus (P), ortho-phosphate phosphorous (OP), total suspended solids (TSS), and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Comparison of silvicultural planting to conventional reforestation practices showed a significant decrease in NNN loads (p < 0.05) but no significant differences in TKN, P, OP, TSS, or E. coli. Continuously grazed sites yielded >24% more runoff than sites that were under prescribed grazing regimes, despite receiving less total rainfall. Likewise, NNN, TSS, and TKN loadings were significantly lower under prescribed grazing management than on conventionally grazed sites (p < 0.05). Data suggests that grazing BMPs can be an effective tool for rapidly improving water quality. However, silvicultural BMPs require more time (i.e., >2 years) to establish and achieve detectable improvements.
Impact of Natural Microorganisms on the Removal of COD and the Cells Activity of the Chlorella sp. in Wastewater
Authors: Sun Qingnan , Zhang Xiaoping , Zhang Xin
Published: October 2023

In the treatment of wastewater containing only chemical oxygen demand (COD) by Chlorella sp., the cell activity and proliferation ability of Chlorella sp. decreased with the culture time, which affected the removal of COD in wastewater. To solve these problems, the Chlorella sp.–natural microorganism symbiosis system was prepared. The system was used to explore how natural microorganisms affect the cell activity and the proliferation ability of Chlorella sp. in wastewater. In the treatment of COD by Chlorella sp., the removal rate of COD decreased from 45.47% to 28.88%, with a decrease in the cell activity and proliferation ability of Chlorella sp. In the Chlorella sp.–natural microorganism symbiotic system, the removal rate of COD reached 45.75%. With the introduction of natural microorganisms, the circulation of CO2 and O2 between Chlorella sp. and natural microorganisms promoted photosynthesis and respiration, which enhanced the cell activity of Chlorella sp. Under the condition that the dosage of natural microorganisms was between 1% and 6%, the concentration of Chlorella sp. was close to the logarithmic growth phase, which maintained the proliferation ability of Chlorella sp. At the same time, the natural microorganisms grew and proliferated in wastewater containing only COD through preying on Chlorella sp.
Multi-Criteria Prioritization of Watersheds for Post-Fire Restoration Using GIS Tools and Google Earth Engine: A Case Study from the Department of Santa Cruz, Bolivia
Authors: Fernandez Jeanne , Maillard Oswaldo , Uyuni Gerson , Guzmán-Rojo Mónica , Escobar Marisa
Published: October 2023

The Santa Cruz department in Bolivia is characterized by a wide range of ecosystems and by its richness in water resources. In recent years, extended drought caused by climate change has led to extensive fire events. Combined with deforestation, this is resulting in the degradation of the region’s ecosystems and water resources. To address restoration needs from both a land- and water-management perspective, this study proposes to prioritize restoration areas by applying a multi-criteria analysis (MCA) based on two main principles: (1) using the watershed as the main study unit and (2) involving stakeholders in the definition of priority watersheds. Local stakeholders selected criteria representing water resources, biophysical characteristics, land management, productive areas, and fire disaster threats, and reclassified the spatial information based on perceived importance. Different prioritization scenarios were developed and compared in a Google Earth Engine (GEE) application. Priority restoration areas largely depend on the weighting scheme. Focusing solely on past fires leads to prioritizing the south-east basins, while the conservation of the western watersheds becomes more important when increasing the weight of the water resources criteria. This study represents the first step in developing a participatory MCA tool at the watershed scale in Santa Cruz. Highlighting the impact of different prioritization criteria can support collective decision-making around land and watershed restoration.
The Influence of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizer Applications on Nitrogen Transformation and Yield in Greenhouse Tomato Cultivation with Surface and Drip Irrigation Techniques
Authors: Li Tong , Cui Jiaxin , Guo Wei , She Yingjun , Li Ping
Published: October 2023

Facility agriculture in China is facing the challenge of the excessive use of chemical fertilizers (nitrogen fertilizers), which hinder the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture. Optimizing nitrogen fertilizer allocation is essential to balance agricultural production and environmental concerns. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal organic fertilizer strategy for tomato cultivation under different irrigation methods. An experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, and two irrigation methods, surface irrigation (SI) and drip irrigation (SDI), were used during tomato growth. The fertilization treatments included urea alone (CK); 30%, 40%, and 50% chicken manure mixed with urea (FC1, FC2, FC3); and 50% cow manure and sheep manure mixed with urea (FB3, FS3). The results showed that the irrigation techniques and fertilization had significant effects on ammonia volatilization accumulation, soil mineral nitrogen content, and tomato yield and quality. Compared with the surface irrigation technique with the same amount of fertilizer application, the drip irrigation technique reduced the ammonia volatilization accumulation by a maximum of 76.40%. The SDIFC3 and SDIFB3 ammonia volatilization accumulation was as low as 5.24 (kg·hm−2) and 7.61 (kg·hm−2); the soil nitrate nitrogen content was reduced, and the tomato yield increased significantly by 17.11%. The SDIFC3 treatment achieved a maximum yield of 13,414 (kg·hm−2), increased the tomato vitamin C and soluble sugar contents by 19.13% and 8.97%, and lowered the titratable acid content by as much as 30.51%. Under drip irrigation fertilization conditions, the SDIFC3 treatment showed lower ammonia volatilization accumulation and the highest tomato yield and quality compared to CK and the same proportion of organic fertilizer substitutes with cow and sheep manure. The increase in the proportion of organic fertilizers replacing chemical fertilizers resulted in a gradual decrease in ammonia volatilization accumulation and a gradual increase in the tomato yield and various qualities. The soil mineral N content, on the other hand, was significantly affected by irrigation, fertilizer application, and water–fertilizer interaction effects, with a tendency for the content to increase and then decrease after each fertilizer application. The mineral N content was lower with drip irrigation compared to surface irrigation, especially in the 10–20 cm soil layer than in the 0–10 cm layer. Increasing drip irrigation and organic fertilizer substitution significantly increased the vitamin C and soluble sugar contents in the tomatoes, while decreasing the titratable acid content.
The Species Diversity of the Genus Echinogorgia in Xiamen Bay and Its New Record in China
Authors: Wang Yun-Pei , Yang Jing , Chu Ta-Jen , Liu Jia-Ying
Published: October 2023

The rapid reduction in coral reefs worldwide has led to increasing attention toward protecting and restoring coral reef ecosystems. Coral reefs not only have a rich diversity of coral species, but they can also provide important products and services for human beings. One type of coral, Echinogorgia, has important scientific research value and application prospects. To understand the diversity of coral species, diving surveys were conducted in Xiamen Bay in 2017 and 2021, and a total of 928 samples were collected. Taxonomic research was conducted using methods such as morphological identification through electron microscopy. Specific phylogenetic trees of the COI gene, mtMuts gene, and ITS1 gene were analyzed. There were 47 specimens of Echinogorgia coral included among 928 samples. Fifteen species of Echinogorgia were identified, including Echinogorgia ramosa, Echinogorgia flexilis, Echinogorgia russelli, Echinogorgia ramulosa, and Echinogorgia gracilima (which represent the newly recorded species in the waters of China). This study increases the species diversity records in China and contributes to new geographical distribution information of Echinogorgia worldwide. The primary data also serve as the baseline data for long-term biomonitoring programs to estimate the status of octocorals in Xiamen Bay.
Understanding non-recreational prescription medication-sharing behaviours: a systematic review
Authors: Dawson Shoba , Johnson Hans , Huntley Alyson L , Turner Katrina M , McCahon Deborah
Published: October 2023

Background

Prescription medication sharing refers to the lending or borrowing of prescription medications where the recipient is someone other than the person for whom the prescription is intended. Sharing prescription medication can cause significant harm. Adverse consequences include an increased risk of side effects, delayed health seeking, and severity of disease. Prevalence estimates vary across different populations and people’s reasons for, and perceptions of risks from, sharing are poorly understood.

Aim

To better understand prescription medication-sharing behaviours and practices – specifically, the prevalence, types of medications, reasons, perceived benefits and risks, and factors associated with medication sharing.

Design and setting

This systematic review included primary studies in any setting, focusing on people who engage in medication sharing.

Method

Electronic databases were searched from inception of databases to February 2023.

Results

In total, 19 studies were included. Prevalence of lifetime sharing ranged from 13% to 78%. All 19 studies reported that analgesics were the most shared, followed by antibiotics (n= 12) and allergy medication (n= 9). Common reasons for sharing were running out of medication (n= 7), cost (n= 7), and emergency (n= 6). Perceived benefits included resolution of the problem and convenience. Perceived risks included adverse drug reactions and misdiagnosis. Characteristics associated with sharing included age, female sex, having asthma, and unused medicines stored at home.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that medication-sharing behaviour is common and involves a range of medicines for a variety of reasons. Data on the prevalence and predictors of prescription medication sharing are inconsistent. A better understanding of non-modifiable and potentially modifiable behavioural factors that contribute to sharing is needed to support development of effective interventions aimed at mitigating unsafe sharing practices.