bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rural Land Degradation Assessment through Remote Sensing: Current Technologies, Models, and Applications
Authors: D’Acunto Federica , Marinello Francesco , Pezzuolo Andrea
Published: August 2024

Degradation and desertification represent serious threats, as they present severe environmental and socio-economic consequences, demanding immediate action. Although a recognized methodology for assessing degradation and desertification is missing, remote sensing has been recognized as a powerful support for its accessibility and efficacy. The aim of this study is to examine the application of remote sensing for assessing land and soil degradation and desertification. A total of 278 research papers retrieved from Scopus/Web of Science database and published over the past decade have been analyzed. From the analysis of scientific publications, a rising interest for these topics and a dominance of research from China has been registered. Established satellite data, Landsat, and MODIS, despite limitations in accuracy and resolution, remain popular due to easy access. This restricts research to broader scales and limits practical applications like land management. The prevalent use of vegetation indexes, while convenient, can be misleading due to their indirect connection to soil health. Consequently, vegetation-based models may not fully capture the complexities involved. To improve understanding, the study suggests a shift towards multi-indexes models and a move away from relying solely on readily available data products. Moreover, the application of data fusion methods could provide a more holistic view.
Assessment of Atmospheric Correction Algorithms for Correcting Sunglint Effects in Sentinel-2 MSI Imagery: A Case Study in Clean Lakes
Authors: Wang Qingyu , Liu Hao , Wang Dian , Li Dexin , Liu Weixin , Si Yunrui , Liu Yuan , Li Junli , Duan Hongtao , Shen Ming
Published: August 2024

The Sentinel-2 Multi-Spectral Instrument (MSI) is characterized by short revisit times (5 days), red-edge spectral bands (665 nm and 705 nm), and a high spatial resolution (10 m), making it highly suitable for monitoring water quality in both inland and coastal waters. Unlike SeaWiFS, which can adjust its viewing angles to minimize sunglint, the Sentinel-2 MSI operates with fixed near-nadir angles, which makes it more susceptible to sunglint. Additionally, the complex optical properties of water pose challenges in accurately determining its water-leaving reflectance. Therefore, we compared the effectiveness of six atmospheric correction (AC) algorithms (POLYMER, MUMM, DSF, C2RCC, BP, and GRS) in correcting sunglint using two typical lakes in Xinjiang, China, as examples. The results indicated that POLYMER achieved the highest overall evaluation score (1.61), followed by MUMM (1.21), while BP exhibited the lowest performance (0.62). Specifically, POLYMER showed robust performance at the 665 nm band with RMSE = 0.0012 sr−1, R2 = 0.74, and MAPE = 30.68%, as well as at the 705 nm band with RMSE = 0.0014 sr−1, R2 = 0.42, and MAPE = 38.44%. At the 443, 490, and 560 nm bands, MUMM showed better performance (RMSE ≤ 0.0026 sr−1, R2 ≥ 0.86, MAPE ≤ 28.20%). In terms of band ratios, POLYMER exhibited the highest accuracy (RMSE ≤ 0.093 and MAPE ≤ 22.2%), particularly for the ratio Rrs(490)/Rrs(560) (R2 = 0.71). In general, POLYMER is the best choice for the sunglint correction of Xinjiang’s clean lakes. This study assessed the capability of different AC algorithms for sunglint correction and enhanced the monitoring capability of MSI data in clean waters.
Reply to Xu, P.; Krambeck, A. Comment on “Trotsenko et al. Early Results after Thulium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate in Patients with Urodynamically Proven Detrusor Underactivity. Soc. Int. Urol. J. 2024, 5, 160–168”
Authors: Trotsenko Pawel , Herrmann Thomas R. W.
Published: August 2024

We are delighted that this important topic is attracting the attention of the urological community in the global scope and would like to express thanks for the positive comment [...]
An Exploration of Food Sustainability Practices in the Food Industry across Europe
Authors: McDonagh Maria , O’Donovan Sarah , Moran Aisling , Ryan Lisa
Published: August 2024

Sustainability is becoming essential and actively debated in the food sector, influencing companies and stakeholders globally. Sustainability practices have been developed and integrated into food industry actions and policies to meet present needs without compromising future needs. The aim of this study was to explore the current sustainability practices across the food industry in Europe and how initiatives are developed, implemented and evaluated to achieve food sustainability targets. This study formed part of a larger European project (2022-1-IE01-KA220-VET-000087508 Digitalisation of Sustainable Health Education). In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 food industry employees with expertise in sustainability across Ireland, Poland, Lithuania, and Cyprus. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed. Three themes were identified: sustainable practices challenges, facilitators of green practice, and thinking to the future, Complying with the Science-Based Targets initiative, and setting emissions targets such net zero by 2050 and reducing waste output, drove sustainable activities. Participants identified barriers to initiative development and implementation including cost, monitoring time, product quality, and employee engagement. Employee and stakeholder understanding were crucial to sustainability initiative success. Gaps in research were identified as the proliferation of environmental labels and greater company collaboration to share sustainability data. A key consideration highlighted in discussions was the importance of collaboration and education for raising awareness and strengthening the implementation and long-term maintenance of food sustainability practices within industry. Greater collaboration between large food companies to share raw sustainability metric data could strengthen initiative outcomes and raise greater awareness among stakeholders, bridging the knowledge gap with producers or stakeholders who operate on a smaller scale.
Sand and Dust Storms: Recent Developments in Impact Mitigation
Authors: Middleton Nick , Al-Hemoud Ali
Published: August 2024

Sand and dust storms (SDS) pose a wide range of hazards to human society, affecting people in drylands and beyond. This paper, based on a wide-ranging review of the scientific and grey literature, presents, for the first time, a comprehensive synthesis of mitigation and adaptation interventions designed to manage the risks involved and thus build resilience to these SDS hazards in line with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 (Sendai Framework) and the Sustainable Development Goals. It highlights case studies and good practice examples of measures available to reduce the risks and impacts associated with SDS beyond SDS source areas. These measures, which are interrelated and complementary, are summarized under education initiatives (for schools, specific sectors and vulnerable groups), risk/impact assessments (involving information on hazard, exposure and vulnerability), vulnerability assessment/mapping, integrated monitoring and early warning (using the World Meteorological Organization’s Sand and Dust Storm Warning Advisory and Assessment System, or SDS-WAS) and emergency response and risk reduction plans (including contingency planning). Many of these measures are developed for other hazards, but not for SDS. Data availability is an important issue in this regard, and the example of Kuwait illustrates that even with a relatively good understanding of SDS, many aspects of impact mitigation remain poorly understood. Developing appropriate responses to SDS hazards is a matter of some urgency given climate change projections that indicate more frequent and intense SDS emissions due to increased aridity and worsening drought conditions (frequency, severity and duration).
Built-In Environmental Construction Mechanism and Sustainable Renewal Strategies of Traditional Qiang Dwellings in Western China
Authors: Zhang Menglong , He Yufei , Huang Liangzhen , Xiong Ran , Zhang Yin
Published: August 2024

Indoor air quality (IAQ) has a significant impact on human health, as people spend 90% of their time in various indoor environments. Therefore, research on IAQ is extremely necessary. However, current research on traditional Qiang residences in western Sichuan mainly focuses on the indoor thermal environment and heritage protection, with relatively little attention paid to IAQ. This study investigates the IAQ of traditional Qiang residences in western Sichuan, which have open fire pits as the core of daily life, exploring the impact of passive renovation strategies on the indoor air quality. Using simulation methods, this study employs passive strategies, such as increasing the size of windward windows, changing ventilation methods, relocating the fire pit, and enlarging interior partition openings, to improve and optimize the IAQ through natural ventilation. The results show that when the windward window sizes are 0.8 m × 1.9 m and 0.7 m × 1.55 m, the reduction in the indoor CO2 concentration is the greatest, with a maximum decrease of 0.024% at the 1.5 m plane. This paper proposes passive renovation strategies to improve the indoor air quality of Qiang residences in western Sichuan. These strategies effectively enhance the indoor air quality of Qiang residences and address the research gap on indoor air quality in regional Qiang residences in western Sichuan. The insights and methods presented contribute to the improvement of the indoor air quality in traditional buildings and support the sustainable development of traditional architecture.
Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on Customer Loyalty in Indian Telecom Industry: The Moderating Role of Consumer Demographics
Authors: Singh Premendra Kumar , Vasudevan Asokan , Singh Elangbam Nixon , Das Bidhu Kanti , Sunder Raju Ganesh , Mate Nilesh R. , Kumar Rajinder , Singh Niharika , Aier Bendangienla
Published: August 2024

The aspiration of this paper is to examine the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and service quality on customer loyalty and their relationship in the Indian telecommunication industry. A model was proposed and a total of 377 responses were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were assessed and analyzed using PLS SEM. Multi-group analysis (MGA) was carried out to comprehend the moderating effect of gender, age, education, and income within the model. The results suggest that CSR does not have a direct impact on customer loyalty (CL), but there is an indirect effect when it is mediated through customer satisfaction (CS) and trust (Tr). Service quality (SQ) was found to have a direct impact on CL and while it is also mediated through CS. The results of the MGA revealed that customer satisfaction increases commitment towards customer loyalty and trust among male users. This study highlights that the modern customers are knowledgeable, more aware, and value companies which are focused on CSR activities.
Enhancing Biogas Production: An Assessment of Pasteurization Effects on Poultry, Swine, Bovine Manure and Food Waste Substrates
Authors: Michailidou Ioanna , Grigoriadou Ifigeneia , Sfetsas Themistoklis , Vlachokostas Christos , Arsenos Georgios , Lymperopoulos Aristotelis
Published: August 2024

Within the evolving regulatory landscape of the European Union concerning animal by-product (ABP) management within the circular economy framework, this study explores the concurrent objectives of safeguarding public health and environmental integrity and maximizing final product value. Anaerobic digestion (AD) emerges as a holistic solution for ABP management, addressing sanitation concerns while enhancing end-product quality. Through laboratory-scale experimentation, the AD process applied to four substrates—poultry manure, swine manure, cattle manure, and food waste—is scrutinized. Prior to AD, pasteurization at 70 °C for 60 min ensures microbial safety. Subsequently, four experimental AD cycles compare pasteurized and unpasteurized substrates. Results highlight the efficacy of pasteurization in sanitizing final products across all substrates, emphasizing its pivotal role in product safety. However, pasteurization’s impact on system performance varies. While enhancing biogas yield from animal waste notably, its influence on food waste biogas production is less pronounced, indicating substrate-specific dynamics. This study offers insights into optimizing ABP management strategies, emphasizing the interplay between pasteurization, substrate characteristics, and AD performance. Such insights are crucial for advancing sustainable practices in the circular economy paradigm, balancing environmental stewardship with economic viability.
ESG Standards in China: Bibliometric Analysis, Development Status Research, and Future Research Directions
Authors: Zeng Lihua , Li Hao , Lin Liyu , Hu Dora Juan Juan , Liu Hui
Published: August 2024

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards have received widespread attention in the quest for sustainable development. However, a comprehensive understanding of the current status of ESG standards, particularly in the context of China, remains a scientific gap. This study bridges this gap by adopting a bibliometric analysis to comprehensively analyze the current status of ESG standards. Based on an analysis of 213 articles involving ESG standards in the Web of Science Core Collection database from 2015 to 2024, this study identified the global distribution of ESG standards organizations, research hotspots, trends, and cutting-edge status of ESG standards research. It was found that the research on ESG standards shows a growing trend: the research hotspots mainly focus on the areas of performance, rating, investment, and sustainability. Crucially, this study offers novel insights into the current development status of ESG standards in China, emphasizing the significant roles of the government’s promotion of ESG standard formulation and regulation, corporate voluntary compliance, and academic research and communication. Future research directions on ESG standards are proposed and imply that the implementation of ESG standards in China should be beneficial to sustainable development.
An Innovation Management Approach for Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing
Authors: Li Tingyou , Xu Xia , Shen Luyi
Published: August 2024

With more companies entering the realm of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) and governments enacting policies to support the development of low-altitude economies, the commercial potential of eVTOL is being recognized by the public. However, true commercialization is still a long way off. This article analyzes the technologies, product features, potential markets, and government policies related to eVTOL and constructs a four-stage, four-layer Policy–Technology Roadmap (P-TRM) model to guide the R&D process of eVTOL. Then, it is transformed into a system structural model, and the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method is used to identify several key nodes in the R&D process. Utilizing the Technology Adoption Life Cycle (TALC) theory for interpretation and analysis, the article concludes by proposing strategies in product, technology, and policy support for how eVTOL can successfully cross the chasm. This preliminary analysis of the development path, key nodes, and necessary measures for crossing the chasm provides insights for the R&D and commercialization of eVTOL.
Digital Platforms as a Fertile Ground for the Economic Sustainability of Startups: Assaying Scenarios, Actions, Plans, and Players
Authors: Hadizadeh Morteza , Ghaffari Feyzabadi Javad , Fardi Zahra , Mortazavi Seyed Morteza , Braga Vitor , Salamzadeh Aidin
Published: August 2024

This study examines the transformative role of digital platforms in fostering sustainable entrepreneurship within emerging economies. We argue that platforms transcend mere communication channels, acting as catalysts for innovation and collaboration among startups, thereby driving economic, social, and environmental progress. Our framework emphasizes platform-enabled startups, navigating the unique challenges and opportunities presented by these dynamic markets. We adopt a dual lens, using a mixed-methods approach to analyze digital development trends through the prism of platforms in emerging economies. This reframes the discourse on technology-driven development, acknowledging the unidirectional flow of platform adoption from developed nations. The research emphasizes the need for prioritizing sustainability standards in these regions. Furthermore, we delve into the interplay between platforms and sustainable entrepreneurship with the following three objectives: (1) deciphering the drivers of platform–startup interaction for sustainability goals, (2) formulating policies to maximize platform benefits while mitigating risks, and (3) developing actionable strategies for stakeholders to cultivate a thriving ecosystem of sustainable platform-based ventures. The findings of this study reveal six key uncertainties that will shape the future trajectories of sustainable entrepreneurship within digital ecosystems, particularly in developing nations. These uncertainties encompass the following: environmental and social standards, ongoing education and development, mobile application development and utilization, global market access, and competitiveness and value creation. Several alternative future scenarios have been constructed based on these uncertainties, including advancements in digital technologies, dynamic market conditions and evolving consumer behaviors, a heightened emphasis on sustainability and corporate social responsibility, and a paradigm shift towards collaborative business models. A comprehensive framework of supportive policies and interventions has been proposed to facilitate the realization of these scenarios. Moreover, the analysis underscores the pivotal roles of digital platform providers and startups as key stakeholders in this evolving landscape.
Optimization Strategies for Waterfront Plant Landscapes in Traditional Villages: A Scenic Beauty Estimation–Entropy Weighting Method Analysis
Authors: Wang Lie , Sun Chuanhao , Wang Mo
Published: August 2024

This investigation delves into the waterfront plant landscapes of traditional villages in Western Hunan, China, aiming to bolster sustainable ecological resource management, amplify ecological culture, and ameliorate environmental standards. Furthermore, it endeavors to furnish a theoretical scaffold for the meticulous construction and assessment of these landscapes. This study has illustrated the waterfront botanical landscapes of 32 traditional hamlets within the Xiangxi region, integrating prior research on the waterfront botanical regression model based on the Scenic Beauty Estimation (SBE) method. It established and investigated fifteen landscape factors pivotal to the aesthetic valorization of these village waterfronts. The study concocted a beauty quality evaluation model, unearthing a significant correlation (p < 0.01) across evaluations by students majoring in landscape architecture, expert landscape architects, and laypersons, thus underscoring a consensus in aesthetic judgments. A noteworthy correlation between the beauty value (Z-value) and the entropy weight value was elucidated through the equation EWM = −0.106 + 0.425ZSBE, showcasing the landscape quality’s variance among the studied villages. The formulated evaluation model accentuates the significance of seasonal variation, scale affinity, and a rich hierarchical structure.
Does the Inter-Provincial Floating Population Affect Regional Economic Development in China? An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Cao Zhijie , Li Ziao , Zhou Kexin
Published: August 2024

In recent decades, significant changes in the urban–rural structure of population mobility have profoundly impacted provincial development, urbanization, and population redistribution in China. Based on China’s fifth, sixth, and seventh national population census datasets, this study explores the effects of the inter-provincial floating population on regional economic development through statistical and empirical analysis, identifying both the scale and structural impacts of the floating population on regional economic development. The results found that while the scale of China’s floating population has been continuously increasing, the spatial distribution pattern remains relatively unchanged, and the pattern is summed up as low in the middle and high on both sides. The floating population exerts both scale and structural effects on the economic development of both inflow and outflow regions, altering regional populations and production efficiency, and thereby influencing regional economic outcomes. Specifically, this study finds that the inflow population has no significant differential impact on high- and low-density regions. In contrast, the outflow population exhibits a significant differential impact, with the negative impact of the outflow population on low-density regions being more substantial than that on high-density regions. Inter-provincial migration supports achieving sustainable development goals (SDG-8 and 11) by shaping regional economic development. To address these dynamics, the high-density regions of China should transform and upgrade the industrial and population structure by promoting the trend of population return to low-density regions. This can be achieved by transferring low-end industries and low-skilled labor, thereby alleviating the pressure of overcrowding. Meanwhile, low-density regions should seize the opportunities for population return and industrial transfer, implement talent introduction, and accurately undertake industrial transfer. This approach can foster the in-depth development of new urbanization and rural revitalization initiatives, promoting balanced regional growth and sustainability.
The Effect of Trade Policy Uncertainty on Green Technology Innovation: Evidence from China’s Enterprises
Authors: Zhao Xiaoling , Peng Mingru , Wang Xing , Xu Rui , Cui Yongze
Published: August 2024

Promoting green technology innovation is essential for sustainable development and the transition to a low-carbon economy. Using data from listed manufacturing companies in China from 2000 to 2020, this paper takes the establishment of permanent normal trade relations with the United States after China’s accession to the WTO as a quasi-natural experiment and uses the difference-in-differences method to study the impact of the decline in trade policy uncertainty on firms’ green technology innovation. The results show the following: (1) Reduced trade policy uncertainty significantly enhances green technology innovation in firms. (2) Further research finds that the decline in trade policy uncertainty mainly promotes the level of the green technology innovation of firms by alleviating financing constraints faced by firms and intensifying market competition. (3) A heterogeneity analysis reveals that the impact is more pronounced in firms with lower capital intensity, higher growth, export firms, and firms exporting to the United States. This study offers micro-level empirical evidence from China on the economic outcomes of external trade policy changes from the perspective of firms’ green technology innovation and provides insights into how the government should respond to the risks of external trade frictions and improve firms’ sustainable development in the future.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Large-Scale Ecological Restoration Measures in the Liaohe Estuary Using a Landscape Pattern Perspective
Authors: Li Xiuzhong , Ji Baocun , Li Na , Chen Qiuying , Anderson Christopher J. , Wang Yuexuan
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the Chinese government implemented many policies and actions to restore coastal wetlands. This study focused on assessing how these projects have influenced the landscape patterns of the Liaohe Estuary, an area of critical importance. By analyzing remote sensing images from 2009 to 2022, we determined the spatiotemporal changes in landscape pattern, fragmentation, and conversion. Results showed that (1) Reed (Phragmites australis) fields were the dominant landscape feature and covered 46.3–48.2% of the area; however, road was the serious factor in fragmenting these wetlands. Seepweed (Suaeda salsa) marshes, an iconic and characteristic wetland of the region, gradually expanded towards the estuary and coast over the study years. (2) Landscape fragmentation increased and seasonally changed during the study period and restoration measures actually resulted in more fragmentation of the landscape. (3) Ponds replaced 14.28 km2 natural landscape in the development stage and 40.93 km2 were restored to natural landscape during restoration and maintenance. (4) Active restoration projects caused landscape fragmentation to sharply increase initially, but then fragmentation declined as passive restoration continued in the maintenance stage. This study suggests that road construction should be carefully deliberated in ecologically sensitive areas and that ecological restoration (a combination of active and passive restoration) in the Liaohe Estuary region showed evidence of temporal lag and hysteresis that may be important for research in the future.
Environmental, Social, and Governance-Based Artificial Intelligence Governance: Digitalizing Firms’ Leadership and Human Resources Management
Authors: Sklavos George , Theodossiou George , Papanikolaou Zacharias , Karelakis Christos , Ragazou Konstantina
Published: August 2024

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors is impacting the direction of enterprises and society in our swiftly expanding world. This collaboration has significant potential to tackle critical issues such as reducing the impact of climate change, fostering social integration, and improving corporate governance. Nevertheless, the implementation of AI gives rise to intricate matters and apprehensions, as it brings out a distinct array of hazards and ethical quandaries for ESG performance. The objective of the present research is to fill this gap by gathering and offering a contemporary evaluation of the influence of advancing technologies on the strategic leadership’s role in fulfilling the business goal within the context of ESG considerations. We used bibliometric analysis to investigate the study subject using R Studio version 4.2.0 and the bibliometric applications VOSviewer version 1.6.20 and Biblioshiny version 4.2.0. We obtained data from the Scopus database and used the PRISMA approach to suitably choose 205 research publications. The results suggest that it is essential to use AI and ESG to digitize the boardroom. Additionally, it is crucial to guarantee its security using an advanced detection system. Therefore, chief executive officers (CEOs) must give priority to the issues of transparency and cybersecurity to reduce risks and successfully inspire trust in business activities.
UAV Tracking via Saliency-Aware and Spatial–Temporal Regularization Correlation Filter Learning
Authors: Liu Liqiang , Feng Tiantian , Fu Yanfang , Yang Lingling , Cai Dongmei , Cao Zijian
Published: August 2024

Due to their great balance between excellent performance and high efficiency, discriminative correlation filter (DCF) tracking methods for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have gained much attention. Due to these correlations being capable of being efficiently computed in a Fourier domain by discrete Fourier transform (DFT), the DFT of an image has symmetry in the Fourier domain. However, DCF tracking methods easily generate unwanted boundary effects where the tracking object suffers from challenging situations, such as deformation, fast motion and occlusion. To tackle the above issue, this work proposes a novel saliency-aware and spatial–temporal regularized correlation filter (SSTCF) model for visual object tracking. First, the introduced spatial–temporal regularization helps build a more robust correlation filter (CF) and improve the temporal continuity and consistency of the model to effectively lower boundary effects and enhance tracking performance. In addition, the relevant objective function can be optimized into three closed-form subproblems which can be addressed by using the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) competently. Furthermore, utilizing a saliency detection method to acquire a saliency-aware weight enables the tracker to adjust to variations in appearance and mitigate disturbances from the surroundings environment. Finally, we conducted numerous experiments based on three different benchmarks, and the results showed that our proposed model had better performance and higher efficiency compared to the most advanced trackers. For example, the distance precision (DP) score was 0.883, and the area under the curve (AUC) score was 0.676 on the OTB2015 dataset.
Few-Body Precursors of Topological Frustration
Authors: De Filippi Federico Raffaele , Mello Antonio Francesco , Sacco Shaikh Daniel , Sassetti Maura , Traverso Ziani Niccolò , Grossi Michele
Published: August 2024

Spin 1/2 quantum spin chains represent the prototypical model for coupled two-level systems. Consequently, they offer a fertile playground for both fundamental and technological applications ranging from the theory of thermalization to quantum computation. Recently, it has been shown that interesting phenomena are associated to the boundary conditions imposed on the quantum spin chains via the so-called topological frustration. In this work, we analyze the effects of such frustration on a few-spin system, with a particular focus on the strong even–odd effects induced in the ground-state energy. We then implement a topologically frustrated quantum spin chain on a quantum computer to show that our predictions are visible on current quantum hardware platforms.
Block Copolymer-Based Symmetric Membranes for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells
Authors: Buonomenna Maria Giovanna , Bae Joonwon
Published: August 2024

Like batteries, fuel cells provide an inherently clean source of energy with no adverse environmental impact during operation. The utilization of methanol as a fuel is advantageous: it has an energy density of about 6 kWh/kg, which is, much higher than that of other commercialized batteries. This review is focused on the core of a DMFC, i.e., the symmetric membrane, in particular on the block copolymers used for its preparation as an alternative to well-known Nafion. The synthesis of block copolymer ionomers based on different building block types, with special emphasis on the critical issue of methanol permeability and proton/methanol selectivity, as well as the effect of block length and crosslinking are described and discussed.
Post-Earthquake Emergency Logistics Location-Routing Optimization Considering Vehicle Three-Dimensional Loading Constraints
Authors: Pu Xujin , Zhao Xu
Published: August 2024

An efficient humanitarian emergency logistics network is vital in responding to earthquake disasters. However, the asymmetric information inherent in the location and distribution stages can complicate the humanitarian emergency logistics network designing process, resulting in an asymmetric optimization problem. This paper addresses a multi-objective humanitarian emergency logistics network design problem during the earthquake response phase. The objective is to reduce societal expenses (e.g., logistical and deprivation costs) and mitigate risk to the logistics network by identifying ideal sites for distribution hubs, optimal emergency material distribution strategies, and precise material loading plans. The proposed model takes into account various constraint types, such as 3D loading limitations for relief materials, interruptions in distribution hubs, distribution centers’ capacity, transport vehicles’ capacity, and specific time windows for demand points. First, a multi-objective mixed-integer programming model is established to solve the problem. Uncertainty is modeled using a scenario-based probability approach. Second, a multi-objective genetic algorithm based on adaptive large neighborhood search (MOGA-ALNS) is designed to further optimize the solutions obtained from the evolutionary process using an adaptive large neighborhood search algorithm. Furthermore, the MOGA-ALNS integrates a simulated annealing process in the neighborhood search stage to inhibit the algorithm from reaching local optimums. Ultimately, the MOGA-ALNS is compared to three additional multi-objective optimization algorithms. The comprehensive analysis and discussion conducted unequivocally validate the competitiveness and efficacy of the proposed approach.
Correction: Miller et al. Quality of Life in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: The Role of Posttraumatic Anhedonia and Depressive Symptoms in a Treatment-Seeking Community Sample. Trauma Care 2024, 4, 87–97
Authors: Miller Craig R. , McDonald James E. , Grau Peter P. , Wetterneck Chad T.
Published: August 2024

In the original publication [...]
Application of diceCT to Study the Development of the Zika Virus-Infected Mouse Brain
Authors: Green Amy L. , Cowell Evangeline C. , Carr Laura M. , Hemsley Kim , Sherratt Emma , Collins-Praino Lyndsey E. , Carr Jillian M.
Published: August 2024

Zika virus (ZIKV) impacts the developing brain. Here, a technique was applied to define, in 3D, developmental changes in the brains of ZIKV-infected mice. Postnatal day 1 mice were uninfected or ZIKV-infected, then analysed by iodine staining and micro-CT scanning (diffusible iodine contrast-enhanced micro-CT; diceCT) at 3-, 6-, and 10-days post-infection (dpi). Multiple brain regions were visualised using diceCT: the olfactory bulb, cerebrum, hippocampus, midbrain, interbrain, and cerebellum, along with the lens and retina of the eye. Brain regions were computationally segmented and quantitated, with increased brain volumes and developmental time in uninfected mice. Conversely, in ZIKV-infected mice, no quantitative differences were seen at 3 or 6 dpi when there were no clinical signs, but qualitatively, diverse visual defects were identified at 6–10 dpi. By 10 dpi, ZIKV-infected mice had significantly lower body weight and reduced volume of brain regions compared to 10 dpi-uninfected or 6 dpi ZIKV-infected mice. Nissl and immunofluorescent Iba1 staining on post-diceCT tissue were successful, but RNA extraction was not. Thus, diceCT shows utility for detecting both 3D qualitative and quantitative changes in the developing brain of ZIKV-infected mice, with the benefit, post-diceCT, of retaining the ability to apply traditional histology and immunofluorescent analysis to tissue.
Study on Influencing Factors and Chemical Kinetics in the High-Concentration Simultaneous Nitrification and Denitrification (SND) Process
Authors: Luo Benfu , Liu Yuhang , Zhang Qiang , Yan Yujing , He Haixing , Wang Yin , Yang Xi , Li Jinyin , Huang Weiwei , Xu Jiaran , Huang Weiheng
Published: August 2024

High concentrations of activated sludge are an excellent biological treatment; in particular, simultaneous nitrification and denitrification play a huge role in nitrogen removal. However, the influencing factors of SND have not been fully elucidated. The effects of sludge concentration and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration on the performance of SND in a high-concentration activated sludge reactor assisted by chemical agents were investigated, and the SND reaction effect was de-termined by analyzing the along-stream changes of elemental nitrogen in the reactor. The results showed that the SND phenomenon in the reactor was most obvious when the system activated sludge concentration (MLSS) was maintained at 7–9 g/L and DO concentration at 1–2 mg/L. When MLSS decreases within the range of 5–9 g/L, the nitrification reaction improves, but the SND phe-nomenon decreases or even disappears; the SND phenomenon diminishes with increasing DO con-centration. Thus, high sludge concentrations and low dissolved oxygen concentrations are im-portant influences associated with SND and promote unconventional nitrogen removal pathways. In addition, the average value of MLVSS/MLSS for the high-concentration activated sludge process was 0.586, which indicates that the system has a higher activated sludge volume and better sludge activity, which is very effective in enhancing SND. In addition, this study also further investigated the influencing factors of SND in the high-concentration method by exploring the kinetic modeling of the SND reaction in the high-concentration method.
Influence of Valvular Structures on the Flow Characteristics in an Island-Type Fishway
Authors: Dong Mengxue , Zeng Guorui , Xu Maosen , Mou Jiegang , Gu Yunqing
Published: August 2024

Fishways act as ecological corridors, enabling migratory fish species to surmount barriers such as weirs or dams, which are crucial for the restoration of river ecosystems. The island-type fishway is a novel design that utilizes a combination of island structures and valvular configurations to dissipate the kinetic energy of water flow, decelerate the water velocity, and thus reduce the challenge faced by fish attempting to ascend the watercourse. The impact of valvular configurations on the hydrodynamic characteristics within an island-type fishway was explored. The results showed that the main high-velocity flow exhibits a nearly “S”-shaped characteristic, while a low-velocity region develops downstream of the valvular. The valvular configuration has a significant effect on the internal flow dynamics of the island-type fishway. Specifically, the smaller the valvular arc angle, the broader the high-velocity main flow becomes, and the smaller the area of the low-velocity region. When the valvular arc angle is set at 180°, the area dominated by low flow velocities maintains a coverage of over 60%. As the valvular arc angle decreases, turbulent kinetic energy rises, leading to an approximate 70% increase in the maximum turbulent kinetic energy across different water layers relative to the model with the initial angle setting. Within the range of valvular arc angles studied, an island-type fishway with a 180° valvular arc angle is most conducive to supporting the upstream migration of fish. This study can provide a reference for the further development of island-type fishways.
Improving Urban Stormwater Management Using the Hydrological Model of Water Infiltration by Rain Gardens Considering the Water Column
Authors: Kravchenko Maryna , Wrzesiński Grzegorz , Pawluk Katarzyna , Lendo-Siwicka Marzena , Markiewicz Anna , Tkachenko Tetiana , Mileikovskyi Viktor , Zhovkva Olga , Szymanek Sylwia , Piechowicz Konrad
Published: August 2024

Implementing rain garden (RG) designs is widespread worldwide to reduce peak flow rates, promote stormwater infiltration, and treat pollutants. However, inadequate RG design degrades its hydrological behaviour, requiring the development and validation of an appropriate hydrological model for the design and analysis of structures. This study aimed to improve a hydrological infiltration model based on Darcy’s law by taking into account the height of the water column (HWC) at the surface of the RG and the filtration coefficients of soil materials. The model was tested by simulating the hydrological characteristics of a rain garden based on a single rain event of critical intensity (36 mm/h). Using the validated model, design curves were obtained that predict the performance of the RG as a function of the main design parameters of the structure: water column height, ratio of catchment area to structure area, layer thickness, and soil filtration coefficient. The hydrological efficiency of the RG was evaluated in terms of the time of complete saturation, filling of the structure with water, and determining the change in HWC caused by changes in the parameters. The filtration coefficient and thickness of the upper and intermediate infiltration layers of the RG are the main parameters that affect the depth of saturation of the layers of the structure and the HWC on the surface. The model is not very sensitive to the model parameters related to the lower gravel layer. If the top layer’s thickness increases by 10 cm, it takes longer to fill the structure with water, and the HWC on the surface reaches 0.341 m. The rain garden’s performance improves when the filtration coefficient of the top layer is 7.0 cm/h. Complete saturation and filling of the structure with rainwater do not occur within 7200 s, and the water column reaches a height of 0.342 m at this filtration coefficient. However, the rain garden’s effectiveness decreases if the filtration coefficient of the upper and intermediate layers exceeds 15 cm/h and 25 cm/h, respectively, or if the catchment area to RG area ratio decreases to values below 15. The modelling results confirm that considering the HWC in RG hydrological models is essential for designing structures to minimise the risk of overflow during intense rainfall events.
PFOA and PFOS Pollution in Surface Waters and Surface Water Fish
Authors: Ikizoglu Bahar
Published: August 2024

Perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are among the synthetic chemicals employed by various industries since the 1950s and the most critical persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that led to emerging concerns due to high persistency, toxicity, mobility, and environmental bioaccumulation. Although there are more than 5000 types of PFASs, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorosulfonic acid (PFOS) are the two chemicals whose employment is highly restricted and banned by the Stockholm Convention. In the present study, certain water resources in the Marmara Region, the most densely populated and industrial region in Turkey, and the waters of Turkey’s two largest drinking water reserves, Beyşehir and Eğirdir lakes, were investigated. The study was carried out in two seasons, spring and autumn. The lowest and highest PFOA concentrations were determined between 1.77 ± 0.1 and 6.71 ± 2.9 ng/L in all surface waters, and the highest PFOS concentrations were between <LOQ and 3.27 ng/L. PFOA concentrations were higher when compared to PFOS concentrations in all water sources, and PFOA and PFOS concentrations were lower in spring compared to autumn. In some commercially procured fish from water resources, 7.48 ng/g PFOS was detected in Küçükçekmece Lake pike, and 2.5 ng/g PFOA was identified in Eğirdir Lake trout. PFOA and PFOS were not detected in other fish tissues.
The art of graphic design in video games: beyond the visual
Authors: Okur Mine , Kızıl Raif , Atamaz Elif
Published: August 2024

In video game development, the significance of graphic design cannot be overstated. This article explores the multifaceted contributions of graphic design to the gaming experience, emphasizing its impact on player immersion, narrative enhancement, and overall game success. Key areas of focus include visual concept creation, user interface design, in-game graphical elements, and branding and marketing materials.

Through comprehensive analysis, this paper highlights the crucial role of graphic design in shaping the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and marketability of video games. Findings reveal that good graphic design is essential for player retention and engagement, with poor graphics often leading to negative experiences. The study also underscores the importance of concept and interface design in influencing purchasing decisions and enhancing visual and immersive quality. Additionally, brand identity and advertising are significant factors in a game's popularity and reach.

The results emphasize the need for collaboration between graphic designers and game developers to create engaging and visually captivating gaming experiences, ensuring all elements—from characters and environments to user interfaces—work together for a seamless player experience.
A study of cyber-addictions in Ukrainian youth
Authors: Hanhan Yuliia , Yang Yueqing , Porpulit Olena , Melnichuk Iryna , Synitska Теtiana
Published: August 2024

This article investigates the specific manifestations of various types of cyber-addictions among Ukrainian adolescents and young adults. The Internet's increasing connectivity fosters diverse user behaviors, with potential consequences ranging from social relationship disruption and isolation to mental health disorders and physical ailments. Notably, Internet addiction frequently emerges during adolescence, hindering socialization, professional growth, and family formation. Alongside Internet addiction, the modern scientific community recognizes cyber addictions and the growing prevalence of smartphone addiction (phubbing). These addictions share a compulsive urge to remain constantly online and an inability to disengage. To examine modern cyber addictions, the study employed the "Smartphone Addiction Scale" (SAS) and the "Cyber Addiction Test-Questionnaire" (TQC), involving 316 participants aged 15-21. Results revealed distinct manifestations of cyber-addictions across gender groups, reflecting varying goals and preferences in Internet and technology use. The timely implementation of psycho-prophylactic and psycho-corrective interventions is emphasized to address cyber dependencies and prevent the development of destructive tendencies.
The role of virtual reality technologies in the quality training of future specialists in socionomic specialties
Authors: Ivanytska Nataliia , Miroshnichenko Valentyna , Mahas Hennadii , Kochubei Tetiana , Ovdii Natalia
Published: August 2024

The article reveals the content and proves the necessity of using virtual reality technologies in the quality training of future specialists in socionomic fields. It demonstrates the experience of using virtual reality technologies and identifies the types of virtual reality. The main environments for developing virtual reality applications are highlighted. The advantages of virtual reality formats in training future specialists in socionomic specialties are analyzed. Experimental research concluded that most teachers recognized the positive impact of using virtual reality technologies in the professional training of students, enhancing their interest in the educational process. A survey of students showed that most consider using virtual reality technologies in professional training as a more interesting and effective method, greatly facilitating the understanding and study of subjects. These research results serve as a basis for conclusions regarding the practicality of using virtual reality technologies in the professional training of students, their impact on students' interest in the educational process, and their importance in improving the quality of education for future specialists in socionomic fields.
The use of mobile applications in higher education institutions to enhance the quality of the educational process
Authors: Dorofeyeva Olena , Iliichuk Liubomyra , Melnyk Tetiana , Taratuta Svitlana , Tulin Kyrylo
Published: August 2024

The article reveals the possibilities of mobile applications and experimentally proves the practicality of their use in the professional training of specialists. The popularity and significance of various mobile applications in the modern educational process have been demonstrated. The spectrum of mobile applications was analyzed, the content of mobile applications was revealed, and the most effective of them were considered, which can be useful in teaching pedagogical, natural, and humanitarian disciplines and can be used in distance learning conditions to support and motivate learning. The didactic principles that educational mobile applications must comply with are highlighted, and their advantages and disadvantages are shown. Specific forms, methods, and ways of introducing mobile learning into the educational process of a higher school were considered, which should be actively applied by teachers in the educational process of a higher school. The conducted experimental research on the importance and necessity of using mobile applications in education shows that mobile learning has become popular among young people and most university students are psychologically and technically ready for the use of educational mobile programs in education and require the mandatory use of mobile applications in the educational space of a higher school.