bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vaccine Justice and Bioethical Reflections of COVID-19 Immunization in Malaysia
Authors: Moorthy Ravichandran , Gill Sarjit S. , Selvadurai Sivapalan , Gurunathan Angelina
Published: October 2022

Malaysia has the highest infection rate in Southeast Asia, with over 1 million positive COVID-19 cases and over 8500 deaths. The National Immunization Programme, which began in late February 2021, had a particularly slow vaccination rate, with only 4% of the targeted group receiving vaccination in three months. The delay has sparked a lot of public debate and concern, especially in light of allegations of vaccine injustice, unclear prioritization, queue jumping by people in positions of power, and other aspects of the vaccination process. Using an interpretative social science approach, this paper examines the ethical issues that arise in Malaysia’s COVID-19 vaccination discourse, focusing on vaccine justice and the bioethical principle of ‘respect for autonomy’. The paper finds that despite several shortfalls in the immunization process, most Malaysians remain optimistic and support the government’s immunization initiatives. The paper contributes to the understanding that building public trust is critical to the success of the immunization programme. Health agencies should make more efforts to inform the public about the benefits and risks of vaccines, as well as the transparency of immunization processes, which will increase public trust in health systems.
Exploring the Influence of Corporate Social Responsibility on Efficiency: An Extended Dynamic Data Envelopment Analysis of the Global Airline Industry
Authors: Kao Fang-Chen , Ting Irene Wei Kiong , Chou Han-Chung , Liu Yi-Sung
Published: October 2022

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has received significant attention from practitioners, encouraging companies to consider it as a business model for their sustainable development. This study examines the effect of CSR on the dynamic efficiency of the global airline industry from 2013 to 2017. The study integrates DuPont and two-stage network data envelopment analyses to evaluate global airline efficiency and its relationship with CSR. Multiple proxies are used to establish a performance evaluation method and analyze the performance of global airlines from the perspectives of their financial structure, production performance and CSR. The study examines the influence of CSR to global airlines’ production efficiency and CSR is measured according to environmental, social and governance activities. The findings are as follows: (1) the profitability of low-cost carriers (LCCs) is superior to that of full-service carriers (FSCs); (2) the energy and wealth-creation efficiencies of LCCs are superior to those of FSCs; (3) FSCs are more committed to CSR activities, and their CSR is positively correlated with overall production efficiency; and (4) environmental and social elements in CSR improve airline efficiency levels. Overall, this study suggests that global airlines should practice CSR to address challenges in the dynamic global airline industry.
The Future of Tamaulipas MSMEs after COVID-19: Intention to Adopt Inbound Marketing Tools
Authors: Müller-Pérez Jessica , Garza-Muñiz Viridiana Sarahí , Acevedo-Duque Ángel , García-Salirrosas Elizabeth Emperatriz , Esponda-Pérez Jorge Alberto , Álvarez-Becerra Rina
Published: October 2022

Since the emergence of COVID-19, the interruption of non-core activities negatively affected the entire world economy so that companies in emerging countries had to adapt to the “new reality” by seeking new business alternatives. The objective of this study is to determine the intention of Tamaulipas MSMEs to adopt inbound marketing tools based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), considering the variables of attitudes, trust, and perceived technological risk. The proposed model was analyzed using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method. A sample of 310 companies from the state of Tamaulipas was obtained. The results showed that perceived usefulness, trust, attitude, and word of mouth (WOM), were the variables that most influence the intention to adopt inbound marketing tools and, on the contrary, perceived ease and perceived risk were not significant. This demonstrates that adding new variables to the TAM model improves the predictive power of intention with respect to the adoption of new technology, providing a picture of the behavior of companies seeking to continue growing, despite the lags left by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sustainable Anti-Tank Obstacle System Applying Civil–Military Cooperation in Highly Urbanized Areas
Authors: Kim Kukjoo , Jeon Youngjoon , Park Young-Jun , Park Sangwoo
Published: October 2022

Decreasing the use of concrete in construction projects is an important factor in sustainability awareness and green planning. In the past, the military installed and managed concrete block-shaped obstacles called “rock drops” on major roads in order to hinder enemy movement. As the cities surrounding Seoul are developing, traffic volumes are increasing, and traffic networks are expanding, such types of obstacles are becoming obsolete and need to be replaced by a new eco-friendly, urban-friendly alternative. This study proposes a new sustainable anti-tank obstacle and demonstrates its performance through a finite element analysis. In addition, this study analyzes the effect of the proposed obstacle as a civil–military cooperation policy with respect to sustainability by comparing the CO2 emissions between the original and the proposed ones. Once one rock drop obstacle made of massive concrete blocks is replaced, CO2 emissions can be reduced by as much as 99.2%. If 100 rock drop obstacles distributed in the surrounding areas of Seoul are replaced, then 347,581 tons of CO2 emissions would be reduced. This corresponds to total cost savings of USD 17,379,050 based on the Korean carbon transaction price of USD 50/ton-CO2.
Pertinent Water-Saving Management Strategies for Sustainable Turfgrass in the Desert U.S. Southwest
Authors: Serba Desalegn D. , Hejl Reagan W. , Burayu Worku , Umeda Kai , Bushman Bradley Shaun , Williams Clinton F.
Published: October 2022

Drought and heat stresses are major challenges for turfgrass management in the desert southwest of the United States where rainfall is insufficient to support managed turfgrass growth. Irrigation water availability and its quality are increasingly strained due to diminishing surface water supplies. Unprecedented drought conditions threaten the reliance on groundwater supplies that are heavily scrutinized for irrigation practices on landscape and recreational turfgrass. Therefore, development of drought tolerant cultivars, lower input turf management strategies that sustains turfgrass appearance and performance with less irrigation water, and tolerance to higher seasonal temperatures will be critically important. Sustainability of acceptable quality turfgrass can be accomplished through harnessing the natural genetic variation, genetic manipulation using modern genomic technology, and optimizing turfgrass management practices for improved drought tolerance. Besides persistent efforts of varietal development and improved turfgrass management for drought tolerance and performance, redefining the quality of irrigated turfgrass for consumers to align with the environmental conditions is envisioned to foster a sustainable golf, sports fields, and landscape turfgrass industry in the region. A comprehensive study encompassing different turfgrass species and enhancing management practices to achieve acceptable performing turfgrass as well as outreach education to improve public perception of realities for a “green” environment will be critically important. The recent developments in turfgrass science and contemporary communication platforms are instrumental in increasing awareness for a sustainable turfgrass paradigm and sustain eco-tourism of the region.
Does Innovative City Policy Improve Green Total Factor Energy Efficiency? Evidence from China
Authors: Yang Shaoyan , Ding Duodong , Sun Churen
Published: October 2022

Relying on innovation to drive green energy efficiency improvement has emerged as the key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under the pressure of the global economic downturn and carbon emission reduction targets. Using the multi-period difference-in-difference (DID) method and panel data of the 282 cities between 2004 and 2019, this study evaluates and examines the effects, channels, and heterogeneity of the impact of the national innovative city pilot policy (NICPP) on the green total factor energy efficiency (GTFEE). The results are as follows: (1) the baseline regression results show that the NICPP has a positive impact on GTFEE, and the conclusions are still valid after robustness tests and instrumental variables approach to solve endogeneity problems; (2) channel tests show that the NICPP can enhance GTFEE through three channels: industrial structure transformation, green technology innovation, and resource allocation improvement; (3) heterogeneity analysis shows that the NICPP is more effective in improving GTFEE in cities with rich science and education resources, newer industrial bases, and higher initial industrial concentration. This study offers encouraging empirical support and policy implications for employing innovative city policies to improve GTFEE, cities should adapt to local conditions to encourage sustainable development-oriented innovation, industrial clustering, and optimize the market-based allocation of energy.
Examining the Relationships between Student Teacher Professional Identity Tensions and Motivation for Teaching: Mediating Role of Emotional Labor Strategies in China
Authors: He Wenjie , Tian Guoxiu , Li Qiong , Liu Laura B. , Zhou Jingtian
Published: October 2022

Learning to be a teacher through teaching practicum is viewed as a highly complex process in which multiple dilemmas and tensions emerge. These tensions may influence student teachers’ motivation for teaching. However, previous studies on teacher motivation have mainly focused on social status and welfare, seldom taking their emotion regulation into account. Sampling 752 student teachers from 15 teacher education institutes in China, this study examined the relationships between student teachers’ emotional labor strategies, professional identity tensions, and motivation for teaching during their practicum. The results indicated that emotional labor strategies were found to be important resources for student teachers to cope with the challenges brought by the tensions of professional identities in teaching practicum. In particular, deep acting and expression of naturally felt emotions enhanced student teachers’ intrinsic motivation to become a teacher. The results indicated that student teachers should perform emotional labor strategically, which may motivate them to be a teacher intrinsically.
Development of Cross-Border Tourism in Accordance with the Principles of Sustainable Development on the Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan Border
Authors: Sergeyeva Aigul , Abdullina Akzhunus , Nazarov Mamatkodir , Turdimambetov Izimbet , Maxmudov Muxammadismoil , Yanchuk Sergey
Published: October 2022

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are two leading countries of Central Asia, mutually beneficially cooperating in the field of cross-border tourism. In this study, the tourism potential of the border areas was determined on the basis of tourism infrastructure and settlement density data. The geographic coverage of the study included nine regions located within the limits of the Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan border. We proposed the application of a rating assessment of the estimated tourism resource potential of Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan border regions, which provides the basis for comparative analysis of tourism development and promising opportunities for the large territory. The method allows one to achieve an understanding of the availability and volume of tourist and recreational resources in order to assess the tourism potential in the Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan border area in the framework of sustainable development. The study results generally allow the availability level of border region tourism resources to be determined and areas with more favorable and attractive conditions for cross-border tourism development to be identified.
The TOEQCC Framework for Sustainable Adoption of Cloud Computing at Higher Education Institutions in the Kingdom of Jordan
Authors: Al-Ramahi Nidal Mahmoud , Odeh Mahmoud , Alrabie Zyad , Qozmar Nadia
Published: October 2022

The extensive use of cloud computing influences changes in managing information technology and communication systems. The term “Cloud Computing” refers to a new management information system that emphasizes the distribution of various computer services across the internet, such as the World Wide Web. Security and privacy concerns and the deployment of resources in shared settings are only a few of the difficulties posed by cloud computing. This study’s overarching goal is to aid Jordanian higher education institutions (JHEIs) in making informed decisions about cloud computing by creating a framework that considers the most important elements influencing adoption. This study, therefore, presents a framework for the adoption of cloud computing in JHEIs by modifying the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), and the Technology, Organization, and Environment (TOE) framework. To better understand the elements influencing the adoption of cloud computing in the context of JHEIs, the authors offer a framework they call the Technology-Organization-Environment-Quality of Cloud Computing Adoption (TOEQCC), which builds on the fundamental theories and proposed models. The study aimed to solve the problem of cloud computing adoption at higher educational institutions through suggesting a new framework, which aims to improve the awareness of cloud computing factors as well as the roadmap for the adoption process. Eleven different Jordanian universities (both governmental and private) collaborated on this study. In addition to gathering data from the Jordanian Minister of Higher Education (JMHE) and the Jordanian Higher Education Accreditation Commission, the research team also performed three focus groups with Jordanian students and distributed three hundred questionnaires (JHEAC). NVivo was used to analyze the data following the steps: data reduction, data visualization, and conclusion drawing/verification. Statistics and frequency data are shown in tables, pie charts, bar charts, and column charts. Other tools were employed, such as Microsoft Visio and Microsoft Business Intelligence.
Utilizing Multi-Criteria Decision Making to Evaluate the Quality of Healthcare Services
Authors: Al Awadh Mohammed
Published: October 2022

Today’s patients are more informed and quality-conscious than ever before, which is crucial for healthcare practitioners as they interact with people’s lives daily. One of the most important challenges facing the healthcare sector worldwide concerns how to improve the overall quality of hospital care. As a result of the highly competitive nature of the economy in which healthcare services are offered, both public and private hospitals in Saudi Arabia must have their patient satisfaction rates assessed to help consumers make more informed decisions. As a result, we used the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) model to ascertain how patients in Saudi Arabia perceive the quality of the service that is provided by hospitals. The objective of the research work is to identify criteria for enhancing healthcare services using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) technique to model the five SERVQUAL dimensions along with 2 dimensions and 31 sub-criteria. Three healthcare service organizations were selected for the study and evaluated based on their service quality performance. The AHP-based model has been demonstrated systematically for ranking the hospitals based on the healthcare system. It is observed that hospitals should concentrate the most on reliability, tangibles, and security and the least on consistency. In addition, according to the sub-criteria, the hospitals’ primary priority should be infection prevention and hygiene, with completeness receiving the least attention. Based on a survey of dimensions and their sub-criteria, the best hospital is Abha Private Hospital, followed by AHH, and then Asir General Hospital. Therefore, this study has implications for choices on the efficient monitoring of the overall health system to improve quality service delivery that would boost patient happiness, which is the goal of creating hospitals.
Modeling Probabilistic-Based Reliability Analysis for Irrigation Water Supply Due to Uncertainties in Hydrological and Irrigation Factors
Authors: Wu Shiang-Jen , Mai Jie-Sen , Lin Yi-Hong , Yeh Keh-Chia
Published: October 2022

This study aims to model a probabilistic-based reliability analysis, named the RA_IWS_Canal model, for calculating the probability of the irrigation water supply exceeding the water demand (i.e., reliability) within a multi-canal irrigation zone due to variations in hydrological and irrigation uncertainty factors. The proposed RA_IWS_Canal model is developed by coupling uncertainty and risk analysis with a logistic regression equation. The Zhudong irrigation zone, located within the Touqian River watershed in northern Taiwan, was selected as the study area, with the inflow from Shanping Weir, water supplies at 15 irrigation canals, and water intakes of two reservoirs (Baoshan and Baoshan II) and a water treatment plant (Yuandon); 1000 simulations of 10-day irrigation water allocations and resulting exceedance probabilities of the water supplies at the 15 canals were achieved using the multivariate Monte Carlo simulation and the uncertainty with the water allocation model (RIBASIM), and employed in the development of the proposed RA_IWS_Canal model. The model development and application results indicate that the uncertainty factors and the inflow from Shanping Weir markedly and positively influence the exceedance probability of the canal-based irrigation water supply to boost the corresponding reliability (about 0.8). The water intake of the Baoshan Reservoir has a lower relationship (by 0.19) than the Yuandon water treatment plant with the reliabilities of the irrigation water supplies at its downstream canals. As a result, the proposed RA_IWS_Canal model can evaluate the effect of not only the canal-based uncertainty factors, but also the regional features on the irrigation water supply reliability. In addition, using the proposed RA_IWS_Canal model, the planned irrigation water demands at various canals within a multi-canal irrigation zone could be accordingly formulated based on acceptable reliability.
Ethnobotany in Iturbide, Nuevo León: The Traditional Knowledge on Plants Used in the Semiarid Mountains of Northeastern Mexico
Authors: Estrada-Castillón Eduardo , Villarreal-Quintanilla José Ángel , Cuéllar-Rodríguez Luis Gerardo , March-Salas Martí , Encina-Domínguez Juan Antonio , Himmeslbach Wibke , Salinas-Rodríguez María Magdalena , Guerra Jacqueline , Cotera-Correa Mauricio , Scott-Morales Laura Magdalena , Friesen Rebecca Jane , Garza-Zambrano Patricio , Arévalo-Sierra José Ramón , Garate-Escamilla Homero , Gutiérrez-Gutiérrez Maritza , Gutiérrez-Santillán Tania Vianney
Published: October 2022

Iturbide is in the northeast of Mexico and has a rich native and exotic flora; however, there are no ethnobotanical records, therefore, it requires attention in the documentation of traditional knowledge and practices of its botanical resources. In 2021, twelve field trips were carried out, applying 110 semi-structured interviews. Plant samples were collected, identified and deposited in an herbarium. We used the Chi-square test to compare the anthropocentric categories concerning others reported in Mexico. To determine the cultural importance, three ethnobotanical indices were applied (UVI, ICF and FL). We recorded 250 species with ethnobotanical implications associated with 121 genera and 83 families, including 140 native and 110 exotic species. The most common plant families were Asteraceae, Lamiaceae and Fabaceae. The main categories of uses were: ornamental, medicinal and food. The species with the highest UVI values were Lepidium peruvianum, Ocimum basilicum and Salvia rosamrinus. The multifunctionality of the native and exotic flora demonstrates the extensive knowledge associated with botanical resources. For example, the role of ornamental plants, with a direct impact on human well-being, the resilience of healers and traditional inhabitants by using different species for the treatment of various ailments or indigenous edible plants in the daily diet.
Influence of COVID-19 on Environmental Awareness, Sustainable Consumption, and Social Responsibility in Latin American Countries
Authors: Valenzuela-Fernández Leslier , Guerra-Velásquez Mauricio , Escobar-Farfán Manuel , García-Salirrosas Elizabeth Emperatriz
Published: October 2022

This article aims to investigate the effect that COVID-19 has on environmental awareness, sustainable consumption, and consumer social responsibility. Although some recent research focused on this phenomenon, there are still no studies applied to Latin American consumers. In this study, the data comes from 1624 responses from Latin American consumers who also represent different generations, equitably distributed in 400 from Chile (24.6%), 421 from Colombia (25.9%), 401 from Mexico (24.7%), and 402 from Peru (24.8%). Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires using an online survey via Google Forms through email and social networks (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and WhatsApp) from July 2021 to September 2021. This study uses a quantitative methodology using a structural equations model (SEM) to examine the cause–effect relationships of the explanatory model of this study. The main findings indicate that consumers from these countries declare that their behaviors have become ecologically and socially responsible. In addition, these respondents indicated that they had increased their interest in sustainable consumption and in acquiring environmentally friendly products to reduce waste and negative impacts on the environment derived from consumption. Based on the results, this research provides useful information to change or re-direct the communication and strategies of governments, brands, organizations, and society to promote actions and behaviors that help reduce the negative impact on the environment derived from consumption in a Latin American market. Managerial implications are provided.
Digital Business Models in the Hospitality Sector: Comparing Hotel Bookings with Yacht Charter Bookings
Authors: Zentner Helena , Gračan Daniela , Barkiđija Sotošek Marina
Published: October 2022

Within the fast paced digital transformation of the tourism and hospitality sector, the modalities of booking a tourist accommodation have been radically transformed by the uptake of digital business models and digital platforms. This study examines the underlying mechanisms and key specificities of digital business models for two of the sector’s sub-segments—hotel accommodation bookings and yacht charter accommodation bookings. Based on the literature review findings, the case study method was applied in relation to key digital business models relevant for hotel bookings. On the other end, in relation to the yacht charter segment and its digital business models, an empirical research was conducted, encompassing a final sample of 162 yacht charter agencies from 42 countries worldwide. The analyzed digital business models have multiple similarities, while there are specific differences between the two hospitality segments. Even though digital business models are highly important in both segments, they are generally more developed and sophisticated in the hotel segment, which is related to the segment’s sheer size, in comparison with the younger and smaller yacht charter segment. The novelty is reflected in shedding more light on the characteristics of digital business models in the fast-developing yacht charter segment, including through an empirical study.
Mechanical and Shape Memory Properties of 3D-Printed Cellulose Nanocrystal (CNC)-Reinforced Polylactic Acid Bionanocomposites for Potential 4D Applications
Authors: Agbakoba Victor Chike , Hlangothi Percy , Andrew Jerome , John Maya Jacob
Published: October 2022

There is a growing need for diversified material feedstock for 3D printing technologies such as fused deposition modelling (FDM) techniques. This has resulted in an increased drive in the research and development of eco-friendly biopolymer-based composites with wide applications. At present, bionanocomposites of polylactic acid (PLA), biopolymer, and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) offer promising technical qualities suitable for FDM 3D printing applications due to their biodegradability and wide-ranging applications. In this work, the applicability of the PLA/CNCs bionanocomposites in 4D applications was investigated by studying its shape-recovery behaviour. Tensile and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) was used to elucidate the mechanical and flexural properties of the 3D-printed specimens. The results revealed improvement in the deflection temperature under load (DTUL), creep deformation, and recovery of the PLA/CNCs bionanocomposites. Tensile and static 3-point bending analyses of the bionanocomposites revealed improved tensile strength and modulus of the 3D printed parts. The potential 4D application of the PLA/CNCs bionanocomposites was also investigated by successfully printing PLA/CNC bionanocomposites directly onto a nylon fabric. The PLA/CNCs-fabric prototype included a foldable cube and grid-patterned designs. Additionally, the heat-induced shape memory behaviour of these prototypes was demonstrated.
Intellectual Capital and Firm Performance in Vietnam: The Moderating Role of Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Tran Ngoc Phu , Dinh Co Thi Huyen , Hoang Hien Thi Thu , Vo Duc Hong
Published: October 2022

The effects of intellectual capital on firm performance have been extensively investigated. However, the important role of corporate social responsibility in moderating this intellectual capital–performance nexus has largely been neglected in the existing literature. This study uses a sample of 60 listed firms on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange from 2011 to 2020 to examine the independent and joint effects of intellectual capital and corporate social responsibility on firm performance in Vietnam. The generalized method of moments is used. We find that both independent and joint effects exist. Furthermore, our results suggest that structural capital efficiency and capital employed efficiency are the two critical components of intellectual capital affecting firm performance. Interestingly, the joint effects of intellectual capital and CSR on firm performance are also confirmed in our analysis. These findings shed light on important policy implications concerning managerial policies targeting both intellectual capital and corporate social activities to improve firm performance in Vietnam.
Participatory Identification of Breeding Objectives and Selection Criteria for Begaria Cattle Breed
Authors: Aseged Tesfalem , Getachew Tesfaye , Banerjee Sandip
Published: October 2022

The objectives of this study were to identify the breeding objectives of Begaria cattle keepers. A semi-structured questionnaire, live animal ranking, and focus group discussions were employed to identify the breeding objectives of the farmers. The study was conducted on a total of 75 conveniently sampled households. Among the total cattle population of the sampled households, 506 heads of cattle (252 male and 254 female animals) were ranked as first best, second best, third best, and/or the worst animals. Owners were asked to choose the first best, second best, third best, and worst animals from their herd for both sexes. Reasons for ranking, important morphometric measurements, and (re)production performance of the ranked animal were taken. The R Commander package version 2.6-0 was used to analyze qualitative data and analysis of variance in R software was used to analyze quantitative data. Reasons for ranking of cows in the study area were milk yield (39.14%), calving interval (15.14), temperament (12), and body size (10.86), whereas for bulls, reasons were body size (30.39%), growth (30.66), body condition score (16.85), and color (15.19). Survival rate (Sur), calving interval (CI), milk yield (MY), and lactation milk yield (LMY) for the cows and body condition score (BCS), weaning age (WA), yearling weight (YW), and weaning weight (WW) for the bulls were significantly different (p < 0.05) mainly between the first- and last-ranked animals. Farmers were willing to pay up to Ethiopian birr (ETB) 11,500, 10,700, 10,400, and 9500 on average for first-, second-, and third-ranked breeding females and up to ETB 6300, 5800, 5200, and 4500 for breeding males. Lactation milk yield, calving interval, mothering ability, growth rate, and age at first calving were determined as breeding objective traits of the community. with suggested selection criteria of lactation milk yield, calving interval, survival rate, yearling weight, and age at first calving, respectively.
Study on Noise Correction Algorithm of Infrared Emissivity of Rock under Uniaxial Compression
Authors: Shi Dongping , Wang Jinmiao , Xiong Lichun
Published: October 2022

In the process of uniaxial loading of rocks, the original temperature information of infrared radiation is easily submerged in the noise signal, which leads to distortion of the obtained infrared radiation response information. In this paper, we propose a multi-band pseudo-emissivity denoising algorithm. Based on the basic theory of infrared radiation, by separating the infrared temperature measurement from the emissivity of the measured object, we constructed an infrared multi-band temperature measurement vector group that does not involve the emissivity to reduce the noise interference caused by the infrared temperature measurement results and the emissivity. Under a loading experiment of rock under uniaxial compression, the change of infrared radiation (IR) characteristics with loading was observed. The research results show that the multi-band pseudo-emissivity algorithm could effectively denoise infrared images and, using the denoised rock surface MIRT, AIRT and IRV as indicators, the characteristics of infrared radiation change in the process of uniaxial compression loading and fracturing of real rocks were analyzed.
The Effect of Cross-Boundary Supply on the Accessibility of Public Services in Urban Governance: An Example of Shanghai
Authors: Xiong Jing , Xu Zening , Li Liwen , Liu Xu
Published: October 2022

Due to regional variations in urban governance and the division of functions across different government departments, administrative divisions have caused serious fragmentations in local governance and raised serious obstacles to the standardization and equitable delivery of public services within communities. Existing studies have put forward solutions to the problem of governance fragmentation that prioritize optimizing organizational structures. However, these studies neglect to take into account the impact of administrative divisions on public service supply. Current developments in information technology (IT) have brought new opportunities to urban governance. In this study, we take the Community Public Service Centers (CPSCs) of Shanghai as an example to illustrate the impact of administrative divisions on the equitable delivery of public services. We then explore the use of IT-driven implementation of cross-boundary public services to establish an innovative urban governance model that improves the accessibility of public services. The study found that the cross-boundary supply with the support of IT will effectively improve the equitable delivery of public services. This research will provide references for improving the accessibility of public services, the efficiency of resource allocation, and the promotion of the equitable delivery of public services among communities—all of which contribute to the optimization of urban governance.
Research on the Influencing Factors for the Use of Green Building Materials through the Number Growth of Construction Enterprises Based on Agent-Based Modeling
Authors: Li Yong , Sun Yu , Zeng Chengcheng , Li Jinxing , Gao Yanping , Li Haisheng
Published: October 2022

As the concept of green building is increasingly promoted worldwide, the use of green building materials has also attracted great attention. In order to improve the utilization rate of green building materials in construction projects, this paper tries to explore influencing factors based on the method of agent-based modeling (ABM), which is well-suited to the study of complex systems and their emergent behaviors. There are two types of agents being set, named, respectively, greedy construction enterprises and selective construction enterprises. Meanwhile, the construction unit’s intention to use green building materials is treated as the criterion. Two types of construction enterprises compete for projects to obtain profits. In order to reveal the mechanism of the evolutionary path of the macro system, the movement step, project unit profit, project cost and expansion cost are adopted as the independent variables and the number of enterprises is the dependent variable. Then, the experiment was performed with the NetLogo simulation platform. The simulation results show that, it is not beneficial for the selective construction enterprises when the movement step in selecting projects is too long and the project units are too profitable. However, when the project cost and expansion cost become higher, there is a significant advantage for selective construction enterprises to go for a long-term development. Therefore, after a comprehensive evaluation of project costs and unit profits, an optimal strategy can be formulated to ensure the quantitative scale of construction enterprises in the construction industry. This behavior can indirectly improve the intention of construction units to use green building materials and further promote the utilization rate of green building materials.
How Climbers’ Sensation of Recreation Impact and Recreation Experience Affect Their Environmental Attitudes and Environmentally Responsible Behaviors: A Case of Jiaming Lake National Trail
Authors: Wang Yun , Wang Chih-Chiang
Published: October 2022

The outbreak of COVID-19 has significantly increased the number of climbers who enter reserve areas and use mountain houses compared with the same period in 2019. Mountaineering has become a popular activity causing forest managers to pay more attention in tourist environmentally responsible behavior (ERB) which is key to maintain land sustainable management. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the influence of climbers’ sensations of recreation impact, the recreation experience, and environmental attitudes on ERB in Jiaming Lake National Trail. Questionnaires were distributed online through a Facebook fans social network. A total of 577 valid questionnaires were received in July 2021, and we used SPSS20.0 and SmartPLS3.3.9 software to analyze returned questionnaires. The research found: 1. The recreation experience has a positive and significant impact on both environmental attitudes and ERB. 2. The recreational impact directly affects both the recreation experience and environmental attitudes with negative and positive consequences. 3. The recreation experience has a partial mediating effect on the relationship between recreational impact and environmental attitudes; 4. Environmental attitudes have a full mediation effect on the relationship between recreational impact and ERB. Our findings indicate that with a better recreation experience, hikers increase their positive environmental attitude and ERB. However, the recreational impact is contradictory in that it reduces the recreation experience which indirectly worsens hikers’ environmental attitude. Interestingly, the environmental attitude does not mediate the relationship between the recreation experience and ERB.
Gaussian Process Regression Based Multi-Objective Bayesian Optimization for Power System Design
Authors: Palm Nicolai , Landerer Markus , Palm Herbert
Published: October 2022

Within a disruptively changing environment, design of power systems becomes a complex task. Meeting multi-criteria requirements with increasing degrees of freedom in design and simultaneously decreasing technical expertise strengthens the need for multi-objective optimization (MOO) making use of algorithms and virtual prototyping. In this context, we present Gaussian Process Regression based Multi-Objective Bayesian Optimization (GPR-MOBO) with special emphasis on its profound theoretical background. A detailed mathematical framework is provided to derive a GPR-MOBO computer implementable algorithm. We quantify GPR-MOBO effectiveness and efficiency by hypervolume and the number of required computationally expensive simulations to identify Pareto-optimal design solutions, respectively. For validation purposes, we benchmark our GPR-MOBO implementation based on a mathematical test function with analytically known Pareto front and compare results to those of well-known algorithms NSGA-II and pure Latin Hyper Cube Sampling. To rule out effects of randomness, we include statistical evaluations. GPR-MOBO turnes out as an effective and efficient approach with superior character versus state-of-the art approaches and increasing value-add when simulations are computationally expensive and the number of design degrees of freedom is high. Finally, we provide an example of GPR-MOBO based power system design and optimization that demonstrates both the methodology itself and its performance benefits.
Defining Circular Economy Principles for Biobased Products
Authors: Vural Gursel Iris , Elbersen Berien , Meesters Koen P. H. , van Leeuwen Myrna
Published: October 2022

To support progress towards the transition to a circular economy, the ability to measure circularity is essential. The consideration of the role biobased products can play in this transition is however still largely lacking in the current development of circularity monitoring approaches. The first step in coming to a suitable monitoring framework for biobased products is to define circular economy principles. In this paper, specific characteristics of biobased products were considered in defining six circular economy principles for biobased products: (1). Reduce reliance on fossil resources, (2). Use resources efficiently, (3). Valorize waste and residues, (4). Regenerate, (5). Recirculate and (6). Extend the high-quality use of biomass. In order to evaluate the circularity performance of biobased products with respect to these principles, what needs to be measured was defined considering both intrinsic circularity and impact of this circularity. The intrinsic indicators provide a measure of success in implementation of these circularity principles, and the latter impacts of circularity, i.e., impact of closing the loops on accumulation of hazardous substances and impact of circularity on sustainability (environmental, economic and social). Yet, to unlock the potential of a sustainable circular bioeconomy, strong accompanying measures are required.
Glare-Free Airport-Based Photovoltaic System via Optimization of Its Azimuth Angle
Authors: Kim Chungil , Song Hyung-Jun
Published: October 2022

Photovoltaic modules and systems (PVs) play an important role in achieving self-sustainable airports. In particular, airport-based PVs (A-PVs) have access to their full potential because airports are typically located in open spaces. However, the reflection of solar light by A-PVs’ front glass is unavoidable and may cause an accident due to solar glare (SG). In this study, we theoretically calculated the risk of SG from A-PVs depending on their azimuthal installation orientation (θPV) and derived a general design rule for minimizing the SG. The simulation reveals that the SG from A-PVs facing the runway and potential flight path causes after-images in pilots and ground workers throughout the year (>800 h/year). On the other hand, modifying their θPV, facing opposite runways and flight paths, significantly reduces the SG (<1 h/year) by reflecting the incident light outside the aircraft route. Although the θPV is not southward, their annual energy generation with an optimized θPV decreases by only 5–7% compared with A-PVs facing southward. This universal design approach is verified at four other airports, confirming the model’s validity. We believe our study will contribute to more solar light harvesting at airports without glare hazards.
Impact of a Carbon Tax on Energy Transition in a Deregulated Market: A Game-Based Experimental Approach
Authors: Suzuki Kengo , Ishiwata Ryohei
Published: October 2022

Energy companies in a competitive market face a dilemma between the short-term revenue benefits of using fossil fuels and the long-term market benefits of investing in renewables. This dilemma is caused by uncertainties in price competition, return on investment in renewables, and the price of fossil fuels. This study experimentally investigated whether a carbon tax contributes to overcoming this conflict using an online multi-player game. The participants played the role of energy companies that produce energy from either fossil fuels or renewables. The game was played seven times each, with and without taxation on fossil fuels. In the with-tax condition, the rate and timing of taxation were informed at the beginning of the game, and the tax was imposed late in the game. The gameplay results showed that the investment in renewables was increased by the actual taxation but not by the information of taxation in advance. The answers to in- and post-game questionnaires indicated that information on taxation did not reduce player anxiety about future uncertainties. These results suggest the importance of considering the effects of policies on the perceptions and future behaviors of market players.
Trichoderma: Advent of Versatile Biocontrol Agent, Its Secrets and Insights into Mechanism of Biocontrol Potential
Authors: Manzar Nazia , Kashyap Abhijeet Shankar , Goutam Ravi Shankar , Rajawat Mahendra Vikram Singh , Sharma Pawan Kumar , Sharma Sushil Kumar , Singh Harsh Vardhan
Published: October 2022

Trichoderma is an important biocontrol agent for managing plant diseases. Trichoderma species are members of the fungal genus hyphomycetes, which is widely distributed in soil. It can function as a biocontrol agent as well as a growth promoter. Trichoderma species are now frequently used as biological control agents (BCAs) to combat a wide range of plant diseases. Major plant diseases have been successfully managed due to their application. Trichoderma spp. is being extensively researched in order to enhance its effectiveness as a top biocontrol agent. The activation of numerous regulatory mechanisms is the major factor in Trichoderma ability to manage plant diseases. Trichoderma-based biocontrol methods include nutrient competition, mycoparasitism, the synthesis of antibiotic and hydrolytic enzymes, and induced plant resistance. Trichoderma species may synthesize a variety of secondary metabolites that can successfully inhibit the activity of numerous plant diseases. GPCRs (G protein-coupled receptors) are membrane-bound receptors that sense and transmit environmental inputs that affect fungal secondary metabolism. Related intracellular signalling pathways also play a role in this process. Secondary metabolites produced by Trichoderma can activate disease-fighting mechanisms within plants and protect against pathogens. β- Glucuronidase (GUS), green fluorescent protein (gfp), hygromycin B phosphotransferase (hygB), and producing genes are examples of exogenous markers that could be used to identify and track specific Trichoderma isolates in agro-ecosystems. More than sixty percent of the biofungicides now on the market are derived from Trichoderma species. These fungi protect plants from harmful plant diseases by developing resistance. Additionally, they can solubilize plant nutrients to boost plant growth and bioremediate environmental contaminants through mechanisms, including mycoparasitism and antibiosis. Enzymes produced by the genus Trichoderma are frequently used in industry. This review article intends to provide an overview update (from 1975 to 2022) of the Trichoderma biocontrol fungi, as well as information on key secondary metabolites, genes, and interactions with plant diseases.
Rapid Urbanization in Ethiopia: Lakes as Drivers and Its Implication for the Management of Common Pool Resources
Authors: Kabiso Aklilu Fikresilassie , O’Neill Eoin , Brereton Finbarr , Abeje Wondimu
Published: October 2022

Recent history has been marked by a shift from rural to urban living. Studies show that urbanization is most prevalent at coastal areas and river basins and these are the locations where most megacities are established. However, in the African context, there is a deficit of research in this area. The focus of studies in the ‘urban’ field show the expansion of cities towards waterbodies but with little or no attention to the implications of this expansion—‘the rural to urban shift’—particularly as they concern lakes as commons in a rapidly urbanizing world, such as African countries and the Global South. Thus, using the case of lakes in Ethiopia, this study explores the trend of urbanization vis-à-vis lakes and its implications for the management of lakes, where historically the Ethiopian urban system has been characterized by settlements on mountain areas as strategic places located far from water bodies, particularly lakes. Using secondary data on population of urban centers and distribution of lakes in Ethiopia, this paper finds that urban centers that are located adjacent to lakes have been growing faster than those cities and towns that are not. The study argues that lakes are an attraction factor for urbanization. Moreover, rapid urban expansion around lakes implies that, in the future, the management of lakes (as common pool resources) critically depends on how urban centers are planned and managed.
Crop Identification and Analysis in Typical Cultivated Areas of Inner Mongolia with Single-Phase Sentinel-2 Images
Authors: Tang Jing , Zhang Xiaoyong , Chen Zhengchao , Bai Yongqing
Published: October 2022

The Hetao Plain and Xing’an League are the major cultivated areas and main grain-producing areas in Inner Mongolia, and their crop planting structure significantly affects the grain output and economic development in Northern China. Timely and accurate identification, extraction, and analysis of typical crops in Xing’an League and Hetao Plain can provide scientific guidance and decision support for crop planting structure research and food security in ecological barrier areas in Northern China. The pixel samples and the neighborhood information were fused to generate a spectral spatial dataset based on single-phase Sentinel-2 images. Skcnn_Tabnet, a typical crop remote sensing classification model, was built at the pixel scale by adding the channel attention mechanism, and the corn, sunflower, and rice in the Hetao Plain were quickly identified and studied. The results of this study suggest that the model exhibits high crop recognition ability, and the overall accuracy of the three crops is 0.9270, which is 0.1121, 0.1004, and 0.0874 higher than the Deeplabv3+, UNet, and RF methods, respectively. This study confirms the feasibility of the deep learning model in the application research of large-scale crop classification and mapping and provides a technical reference for achieving the automatic national crop census.