bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovative and Sustainable Food Preservation Techniques: Enhancing Food Quality, Safety, and Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Lisboa Hugo Miguel , Pasquali Matheus Bittencourt , dos Anjos Antonia Isabelly , Sarinho Ana Maria , de Melo Eloi Duarte , Andrade Rogério , Batista Leonardo , Lima Janaina , Diniz Yasmin , Barros Amanda
Published: September 2024

Innovative and sustainable food preservation techniques are vital for enhancing food quality, safety, and reducing environmental impact. In this review, the methods aligned with sustainability goals are explored, focusing on their mechanisms, applications, and environmental benefits. It examines non-thermal technologies such as cold plasma, pulsed light technology, high-pressure processing (HPP), pulsed electric fields (PEFs), and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which effectively inactivate microbes while preserving nutritional and sensory qualities. Natural preservatives, including plant extracts, microbial agents, and enzymes, are highlighted as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic chemicals, supporting clean label initiatives. Advanced packaging solutions, such as biodegradable materials, intelligent packaging systems, and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), are assessed for their role in reducing plastic waste, maintaining product quality, and extending shelf life. The review uses life cycle analyses to evaluate these techniques’ environmental impact, considering factors like energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and waste reduction. It also explores the potential of emerging technologies, such as plasma-activated water (PAW) and nanotechnology, to further enhance sustainability. By identifying research gaps and discussing industry challenges, the review calls for innovation and the broader adoption of these practices to promote food security, improve public health, and foster a more sustainable and resilient food system
Nonlinear Analysis of the Mechanical Response of an Existing Tunnel Induced by Shield Tunneling during the Entire Under-Crossing Process
Authors: Huang Minghua , Wang Keping , Lu Jinbin , Zhong Yuxuan , Zhou Suhua
Published: September 2024

The safety of existing tunnels during the entire under-crossing process of a new shield tunnel is critically important for ensuring the sustainable operation of urban transportation infrastructure. The nonlinear behavior of surrounding soils plays a significant role in the mechanical response of tunnel structures. In order to assess the mechanical response of the existing tunnel more reasonably, this study attempts to propose a novel theoretical solution and calculation method by simultaneously considering the nonlinear characteristics of surrounding soils and the tunneling effects of a new tunnel during its entire under-crossing process. Firstly, the additional stresses acting on the existing tunnel stemming from the tunneling effects of a new shield tunnel during different under-crossing stages are calculated using the typical Mindlin solution, as well as the Loganathan and Poulos solutions. The influences of the additional thrust, friction force, and grouting pressure and the loss of surrounding soils are taken into account. Then, the nonlinear Pasternak foundation model is introduced to characterize the behavior of surrounding soils, and the governing differential equation for the mechanical response of the existing tunnel is derived using the typical Euler–Bernoulli beam model. Subsequently, a novel theoretical solution and calculation approach are established using the finite difference formula and the Newton iteration method for assessing the mechanical response of the existing tunnel. Finally, one case study is performed to illustrate the mechanical behavior of the existing tunnel during the whole under-crossing process of a new shield tunnel, and the validity of the developed solution is verified against both the computed result of finite element simulation and the field measurements. In addition, the influences from the ultimate resistance and reaction coefficient of surrounding soils and those from the vertical distance and intersection angle between existing and newly constructed tunnels are analyzed and discussed in detail.
Phytocapping for Municipal Solid Waste Landfills: A Sustainable Approach
Authors: Arifuzzaman  , Rahman Md Mizanur , Karim Md Rajibul , Hewa Guna Alankarage , Rawlings Robyn , Iqbal Asif
Published: September 2024

This paper reviews the historical developments in landfill technology and its drawbacks. It introduces phytocapping, in light of previous research, as a promising, eco-friendly and sustainable technology for municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill covers in order to reduce landfill gas and leachate generation. This paper highlights the challenges to successful phytocapping, such as selection criteria for appropriate plants and growth media, and the importance of new research into overcoming these challenges. It also presents a database of plants used in landfill phytocapping studies worldwide. In addition, the performance, economics, and sustainability of phytocapping technology are evaluated in comparison to ordinary MSW landfill methods.
From Single Orders to Batches: A Sensitivity Analysis of Warehouse Picking Efficiency
Authors: Suppini Claudio , Lysova Natalya , Bocelli Michele , Solari Federico , Tebaldi Letizia , Volpi Andrea , Montanari Roberto
Published: September 2024

Currently, companies are called to meet variable market demand whilst having to comply with tighter delivery times, also due to the growing spread of e-commerce systems in the last decade. As never before, it is therefore mandatory to increase the efficiency within distribution centers to minimize operating costs and increase environmental and economical sustainability. The picking process is the most expensive task in a warehouse, both for the required resources and time for completing all the operations, which is typically carried out manually. Several policies can be identified, such as discrete or batch picking. Many studies tend to optimize both policies, treating them distinctly and integrating them with other factors including, for instance, the logic of product allocation. This article stands on a higher decision-making level: starting from a database obtained with a simulative approach that contains the average distances covered by pickers in different warehouse configurations, the aim is to provide an analysis of which factors have the greatest impact in preferring a discrete order picking policy over the batch one. The factors in question are shape factor, input–output point, routing and storage location assignment policies. Results can be useful for industrial practitioners in defining the most efficient managerial strategies.
Costly “Greetings” from AI: Effects of Product Recommenders and Self-Disclosure Levels on Transaction Costs
Authors: Chen Yasheng , Tu Yuhong , Zeng Siyao
Published: September 2024

Companies are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to provide users with product recommendations, but its efficacy is inconsistent. Drawing upon social exchange theory, we examine the effects of product recommenders and their levels of self-disclosure on transaction costs. Specifically, we recruited 78 participants and conducted a 2 × 2 online experiment in which we manipulated product recommenders (human versus AI) and examined how self-disclosure levels (high versus low) affect consumers’ return intentions. We predicted and found that a low level of self-disclosure from human recommenders instead of AI counterparts results in higher emotional support, which leads to lower transaction costs. However, under high levels of self-disclosure, consumers’ emotional support and subsequent transaction costs do not differ between human and AI recommenders. Accordingly, we provide theoretical insights into the roles of self-disclosure and emotional support in human–machine interactions, and we contribute to sustainable AI practices by enhancing the efficiency of business operations and advancing broader sustainability objectives.
A Simulation of the Necessary Total Factor Productivity Growth and Its Feasible Dual Circulation Source Pathways to Achieve China’s 2035—Economic Goals: A Dynamic Computational General Equilibrium Study
Authors: Qi Zike
Published: September 2024

An ambitious per capita GDP target has been envisioned by the Chinese government since 2020 to project its sustainable economic growth rate by 2035. Can China fully achieve its goal? This is a question worth investigating. By inserting relevant TABLO modules of the final goods trade, the intermediate goods trade, and factor-strengthening technology spillovers, along with technology absorption thresholds effects of the global value chain, this study builds a global recursive dynamic computational general equilibrium (CGE) model on the basis of GTAP-RD. This approach enables us to consider total factor productivity (TFP) development through the “dual circulation” system, which was pointed out by the Chinese government as the only way for further growth. We simulate China’s technological progress under eight scenarios and use the latest GTAP Version 11 production and trade data (released in April 2023) for 141 countries and regions. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) If China maintains its trade opening policy, the 2035 vision goal can be achieved, with external circulation being more important than internal circulation. (2) The economic growth impacts of external and internal circulation function relatively independently. FDI offers a somewhat stronger synergistic effect on intermediate goods trade compared to final goods trade and consumption. (3) We find that the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership is the most important strategic partner for China. (4) FDI is not an effective way to lift the productive services sector’s TFP, and it is more realistic for China to open up the productive services market more widely. (5) China–US decoupling has an enormous global impact, and the United States is always the country that loses the most, with Europe being the group of countries that benefits when there is a large increase in TFP in the US. This study is entirely original in terms of its model structure, simulations, scenarios, and shocks. It aims to fill the gap of extending the application of the CGE model to specific issues, thereby making contributions and supplements to the three theories discussed in the article too. The limitation of this paper lies in the CGE linear description feature, which is concise and elegant and has the characteristics of extrapolation and long-term absorption of disturbances. However, it tends to overlook the randomness, non-convergence, and significant structural disturbances that may occur in future reality.
Examining Trends in the Food–Energy–Water Security Nexus and Its Relationships with Human Development, Population Growth, and Conflict
Authors: Tariq Zohan H. , Willis Henry H.
Published: September 2024

Abundant and accessible food, energy, and water are essential to the functioning of human societies and individual health and happiness. However, growing populations, intensifying climate change, and violent instability undermine resource security. We used data from the recently updated Pardee RAND Food–Energy–Water (FEW) Index and the INFORM risk model to assess global and regional trends in resource security and relationships with the Human Development Index (HDI), internal conflict risk, and population growth. Our analysis finds that resource security has modestly improved with an average global FEW Index improvement of 2.61%, but this figure masks significant regional disparities, with several countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia regressing in terms of food and water security. We observe continued high correlations between HDI and the FEW Index (0.8664) and also find the FEW Index to be highly correlated with national income per capita (0.6547). We also find that at a global level, there is a significant negative association between trends in the FEW Index and population growth (−0.4724) during the study period, suggesting that a growing proportion of the global population is experiencing resource insecurity. Finally, our analysis suggests that several resource-insecure countries are also conflict-prone and these nations tended to do worse over the study period than similarly resource-insecure states that were internally stable.
A Study on the Driving Mechanism of Chinese Oil and Gas Companies’ Transition to Renewable Energy
Authors: Gao Lehua , Zhang Yue , Lu Kejie
Published: September 2024

Encouraging oil and gas (O&G) companies to develop renewable energy sources (RESs) is crucial for China’s energy strategy and sustainable development. The transition from O&G energy to RESs is a complex and systemic process that requires a comprehensive analysis of both internal and external driving factors. This study integrates the theoretical dimensions of energy transition with the operational realities, utilizing structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze these factors and their influence on the decision-making process for companies in this sector. A multi-group analysis was conducted to explore differences in motivational mechanisms among groups with varying levels of transition willingness. The findings reveal that environmental awareness, economic value estimation, knowledge accumulation, dynamic capabilities, structural overlap, and government actions significantly promote the energy transition, whereas resource endowment acts as a barrier. Moreover, the willingness to transform moderates the effects of government actions and pressures from other stakeholders on corporate environmental awareness and the transition to RESs. This article provides more comprehensive research perspectives on exploring the driving mechanisms behind the transition to renewable energy, emphasizing the importance of governments playing diverse roles based on the specific internal conditions and highlighting the long-term impact of other stakeholders on sustainable development.
A Two-Stage Evaluation of China’s New Energy Industrial Policy Package
Authors: Wang Qiao , Chen Shiyun , Yi Hongtao
Published: September 2024

Energy structural transformation plays a strategically important role in achieving the dual-carbon reduction goals. Among the various approaches to carbon reduction, the Chinese government regards the growth of the new energy industry as an essential means. Considering that the government policy support determines the long-term growth of the new energy industry, how to improve and optimize the policy support system has always been the core issue. Based on the fact that policy evaluation is a prerequisite, and the new energy industrial development requires the government to promote solutions in the form of a policy package rather than just individual policies, we investigate whether the implementation of the new energy industry policy package (NEIPP) is effective through an empirical case study of Shanghai. A two-stage evaluation method, which integrates the content analysis method (CAM) and synthetic control method (SCM), was used to empirically evaluate the actual effect of the NEIPP. At Stage One, four policy goals were summarized. SCM was used to identify the pure multi-effect of the NEIPP. The results showed that the NEIPP had a significant positive effect on green economic growth and industrial structure, while having a negative effect on carbon emissions. The NEIPP had no impact on the promotion of technological innovation. Several policy implications were drawn from this study.
Impact of Policy Intensity on Carbon Emission Reductions: Based on the Perspective of China’s Low-Carbon Policy
Authors: Chen Haonan , Cui Xiaoning , Shi Yu , Li Zhi , Liu Yali
Published: September 2024

Economic development often results in significant greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global climate change, which demands immediate attention. Despite implementing various low-carbon policies to promote sustainable economic and environmental progress, current evaluations reveal limitations and deficiencies. Therefore, this study utilizes a dataset detailing policy intensity at a prefecture-level city in China to investigate the impacts of these policies on carbon emission reduction from 2007 to 2022 in 334 prefecture-level cities, employing a fixed-effects model. Additionally, it assesses the policies’ efficacy. The findings indicate a significant negative correlation between China’s low-carbon policies and carbon emissions, supported robustly by multiple tests. Specifically, a one-unit increase in China’s policy intensity correlates with a 0.53-unit reduction in carbon emissions. Furthermore, the heterogeneity analysis shows that variations in urban agglomerations, environmental resource endowments, pollution levels, and low-carbon policy intensities influence the effectiveness of these policies in reducing carbon emissions. This analysis underscores that policy intensity achieves emission reductions through technological innovation, industrial transformation, welfare crowding out, and pollution transfer, with varying impacts across different environmental contexts, pollution levels, and policy intensities. Based on this analysis, we recommend several policies: formulating low-carbon strategies tailored to local conditions, enhancing regional low-carbon policies, establishing cross-regional coordination mechanisms, and so on. These recommendations not only offer valuable policy insights for China but also serve as useful references for the green and sustainable development of other developing countries.
Multi-Period Optimal Transmission Switching with Voltage Stability and Security Constraints by the Minimum Number of Actions
Authors: Zhang Mei , Wang Lei , Liu Jiantao , Deng Xiaofan , Wu Ke
Published: September 2024

Due to the ever-growing load demand and the deregulation of the electricity market, power systems often run near the stability boundaries, which deteriorates system voltage stability and raises voltage issues for the stable operations of power systems. Transmission switching (TS) has been applied to improve economic benefits and security operations for many applications. In this paper, a multi-period voltage stability-constrained problem (MP-VSTS) is established, intending to improve voltage security and the stability of a power system. Considering the online application of transmission switching, the minimum number of switching actions is taken as the objective function of the proposed MP-VSTS problem, which extends the TS application for real industries. The proposed model provides the switching lines for the upcoming period and the state of power systems for several successive periods. To overcome the solving difficulties of the proposed model, a two-stage approach is presented, which balances speed and accuracy. Numerical studies on the IEEE 118- and 662-bus power systems have demonstrated the proposed approach’s performance.
Consumers’ Evaluation of Vertebrates and Invertebrates through Price Premiums for Eco-Rice in Urban and Rural Japan
Authors: Li Qiuran , Kamimura Yusuke , Nagao Yamane , Takahashi Miyuki , Zhao Xintong , Imoto Tomoko
Published: September 2024

Balancing food production and biodiversity conservation is a big challenge around the world. Eco-friendly agriculture has the potential to overcome these challenges and achieve sustainability. Although some studies show the high valuation of flagship species (e.g., attractive birds and fish) in paddy land where eco-friendly rice is cultivated, limited research has been performed concerning non-specific species such as generalists inhabiting rice paddies that also contribute to agro-biodiversity and ecosystem services. Therefore, this study assesses the valuation of non-flagship vertebrates and invertebrates by applying a choice experiment to vertebrate- and invertebrate-friendly rice. To understand the spatial/regional heterogeneity of the valuation, a questionnaire survey was distributed to both urban and rural citizens in Japan. Our results demonstrated that almost all respondents expressed a desire to protect both vertebrates and invertebrates, with more appreciation for vertebrates than for invertebrates. The analysis also found regional heterogeneity between urban and rural areas in terms of vertebrate and invertebrate evaluations and purchasing intentions. Our findings indicate marketing potential in Japan to promote eco-friendly rice production in relation to vertebrate and invertebrate conservation.
Determinants of Purchasing Sustainably Produced Wines by Italian Wine Consumers
Authors: Gow Jeff , Moscovici Daniel , Rana Rezwanul , Rinaldi Azzurra , Ugaglia Adeline Alonso , Valenzuela Lionel , Mihailescu Radu , Haque Rezwanul
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this paper is to determine which factors influence the willingness of Italian wine consumers to purchase and pay a premium for sustainably produced wine. Data from 522 Italian consumers were collected using an online convenience sampling method to capture their attitudes and knowledge towards sustainably produced wine. Respondent socio-demographic characteristics were analysed using descriptive statistics. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine whether the willingness to pay a premium for sustainably produced wines differs significantly based on past environmental related purchasing behaviour and socio-demographic characteristics. The main determinants of Italian consumers’ purchases of sustainably produced wine are wine knowledge, age, previously having bought sustainably produced goods, previously having bought sustainably produced wine, and the price of wine. Income, education, or gender did not positively influence willingness to pay a premium value for sustainably produced wines. This study produced surprising results. Consumers in Italy are buying foods that are sustainably certified and over 60% would be willing to buy a sustainable wine, in theory.
The Synergistic Effect of Urban and Rural Ecological Resilience: Dynamic Trends and Drivers in Yunnan
Authors: Zhou Ying , Wang Yanwei , Fang Shuhong , Tian Yixi , Zhu Yujia , Han Lihong
Published: September 2024

With the rapid development of the world economy, pollution of urban and rural ecological environments and the decline in anti-risk capabilities are becoming more serious. In order to promote sustainable improvement of urban and rural ecological resilience, based on previous independent research on urban and rural resilience, this paper combines the two to carry out collaborative development research. The dynamic evolution and driving force heterogeneity in the coordinated development level of urban and rural ecological resilience in Yunnan Province in China from 2013 to 2022 were studied using the coordination degree model of composite system and geographical detector. The results show the following: (1) The urban and rural ecological resilience levels in Yunnan Province increased annually, but urban ecological resilience (0.178) lagged behind that of rural areas (0.376). Compared to rural areas, the overall spatial difference in urban ecological resilience level is significant. (2) The overall level of urban–rural ecological resilience synergy in Yunnan Province has been increasing annually, from “no synergy” to “primary synergy”. However, there are great differences between prefectures and cities. (3) The combination of urban and rural driving factors is more conducive to improving urban–rural ecological resilience. The interaction between the per capita water supply and fertilizer consumption is the primary and critical driving factor. In the future, we will continue to take the coordinated development of urban and rural ecological resilience as the theme, further expand the research field, and carry out future development trend prediction research. This study provides new ideas for the construction of ecological resilience in similar countries and regions worldwide.
Advances in Economic Development through Control of the Underground Economy
Authors: Ștefoni Sorina Emanuela , Brașoveanu Iulian Viorel , Cristache Nicoleta
Published: September 2024

In an era of ongoing global development and increasing focus on sustainability, the underground economy persistently identifies novel areas for expansion. This dynamic growth compels states to engage in an ongoing search for effective strategies to regulate and mitigate its effects, while simultaneously addressing the broader implications for economic development. Poverty, financial development, income inequality, and legal framework are analyzed in this paper in relation to the underground economy for the European Union member states between 2004 and 2022 by way of a panel model. Our findings reveal a positive relationship between the levels of poverty among individuals and the underground economy. Conversely, the interplay between the underground economy and both financial development and the legal framework exhibits a detrimental effect. In conclusion, our analysis reveals that the three primary variables examined—poverty, financial development, and legal framework—substantially influence the scale of the underground economy, with important implications for overall economic development and sustainable growth.
Impact of Environmental Regulation on the Resilience of Marine Economy: A Case Study of 11 Coastal Provinces and Cities in China
Authors: Zhang Lanting , Xu Zilin , Chen Yifan , Liu Zhe , Yu Huijuan
Published: September 2024

Enhancing marine economic resilience is a necessary response to both domestic and international shocks, and it is also key to achieving the sustainable development of the marine economy. In recent years, rising uncertainties both domestically and internationally have posed significant challenges to the resilience of China’s marine economy. In response, China has continuously strengthened its environmental regulations, influencing the resilience of its marine economy through various environmental regulations. This paper measures marine economy resilience index using panel data from 11 coastal provinces and municipalities in China from 2010 to 2019. It empirically examines the direct impact, spatial spillover effects, and mediating mechanisms of environmental regulations on marine economy resilience. The results show that: (1) Environmental regulations significantly enhance the resilience of the marine economy. Among the various environmental regulation tools, command-and-control regulations have a stronger effect in promoting marine economic resilience compared to market-incentive regulations. (2) Environmental regulations exhibit spatial spillover effects in enhancing marine economic resilience, and the spatial influence of different regulatory tools is heterogeneous. (3) The optimization of marine industrial structure serves as a crucial avenue for environmental regulations to enhance the resilience of the marine economy. This study offers theoretical support and a scientific basis for the adjustment and optimization of environmental regulations and the enhancement of marine economic resilience, while also contributing to the sustainable development of the marine economy.
Multidimensional Evaluation of the Quality of Socio-Spatial Environments in Inner-City Transitional Edges: A Case Study of Chongqing’s Yuzhong District
Authors: He Xiao , Kozlowski Marek , Ujang Norsidah Binti , Ma Yue
Published: September 2024

In rapid urbanization, the socio-spatial environment between inner-city functional areas faces numerous challenges. Assessing and enhancing the environmental quality of these areas has become an urgent research issue. This study quantitatively evaluates the social-spatial environment of inner-city transitional edges, selecting Chongqing’s Yuzhong District as the case study area. It explores the relationship between spatial environmental factors and social activities. Integrating spatial data, internet “big” data, and field survey data, a multidimensional evaluation of the quality of the social-spatial environment framework is constructed, encompassing four dimensions: connectivity, social function, comfort, and conviviality. Subsequently, a multiple linear regression model is used to explore the main environmental factors influencing social activities on transitional edges. The results show that the density of street trees, lighting facilities, functional density, and functional diversity significantly impact social activities, demonstrating the correlation between the spatial environment of inner-city transitional edges and social activities. Corresponding optimization strategies for each dimension in transitional edges are then summarized. This study provides references for coordinating inner-city functional areas, optimizing urban environments, and promoting sustainability. It can also be applied to a broader range of transitional edge evaluation studies.
Why Residents Don’t Do What They Say: Exploring the Intention–Behavior Gap in E-Waste Online Recycling Participating
Authors: Sun Qiao , Yao Hailin , Wang Chang , Xiang Yanfang , Ma Jing
Published: September 2024

E-waste online recycling is a new recycling model that has received strong support from governments worldwide. It integrates multiple processes such as online inquiry and offline delivery. The complex online–offline interaction makes residents’ willingness to participate susceptible to external factors, hindering their behavior. To better transform residents’ recycling intentions into behavior, this paper primarily uses a questionnaire survey to explore the intention–behavior gap in e-waste online recycling participating. Our findings show that residents’ e-waste online recycling intention directly predicts their behavior, but the implementation plan plays a partial mediating role between them. Additionally, perceived value and platform interactivity moderate the impact of e-waste online recycling intention towards participation behavior. Subsequent in-depth interview analysis further also confirmed these findings. The study contributes to understanding residents’ online recycling behaviors and fostering the sustainable development of this model.
Identification and Evaluation of Representative Places in Cities Using Multisource Data: Focusing on Human Perception
Authors: Liu Xuanang , Xu Xiaodong , Abuduwayiti Abudureheman , Zhao Linzhi , Lin Deqing , Wu Jiaxuan
Published: September 2024

Discovering the Representative places (RPs) of a city will benefit the understanding of local culture and help to improve life experiences. Previous studies have been limited in regard to the large-scale spatial identification of RPs due to the vagueness of boundaries and the lack of appropriate data sources and efficient tools. Furthermore, human perception of these places remains unclear. To address this gap, this research adopts a novel approach to identify and evaluate the RPs of a city from the perspective of human perception. Our methodology involves the utilization of deep learning systems, text semantic analysis, and other techniques to integrate multi-source data, including points of interest (POIs), street view images, and social media data. Taking Nanjing, China, as a case, we identified 192 RPs and their perceptual ranges (PRRPs). The results show the following: (1) Comparing RPs to non-RPs, RPs show higher average scores across four perceptual dimensions (positive indicators): Beautiful (7.11% higher), Lively (34.23% higher), Safety (28.42% higher), and Wealthy (28.26% higher). Conversely, RPs exhibit lower average scores in two perceptual dimensions (negative indicators): Boring (79.04% lower) and Depressing (20.35% lower). (2) Across various perceptual dimensions, RPs have utilized 15.13% of the land area to effectively cover approximately 50% of human perceptual hotspots and cold spots. (3) The RPs exhibit significant variations across different types, levels, and human preferences. These results demonstrate the positive perceived effects that RPs have, providing valuable insights to support urban management, the transformation of the built environment, and the promotion of sustainable urban development, and provide guidance for urban planners and designers to make improvements in urban design and planning to make these sites more attractive.
Classification Model of Grassland Desertification Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Jiang Huilin , Wu Rigeng , Zhang Yongan , Li Meian , Lian Hao , Fan Yikun , Yang Wenqian , Zhou Peng
Published: September 2024

Grasslands are one of the most important ecosystems on earth, and the impact of grassland desertification on the earth’s environment and ecosystem cannot be ignored. Accurately distinguishing grassland desertification types has important application value. The appropriate grazing strategies can be implemented based on these distinctions. Grassland conservation measures can be tailored accordingly. This contributes to further protecting and restoring grassland vegetation. This project takes color images labeled with the desertification types of grasslands as the research object, uses the currently popular deep learning model as the classification tool, and then establishes a color image-based grassland desertification classification model based on the feature extraction network, based on the Vision Transformer model, by comparing the various deep learning image classification models. The experimental results show that, despite the complex structure and large number of parameters of the grassland desertification classification model obtained in this project, the test accuracy rate reaches 88.72% and the training loss is only 0.0319. Compared with the popular classification models such as VGG16, ResNet50, ResNet101, DenseNet101, DenseNet169, and DenseNet201, and so on, the Vision Transformer demonstrates clear advantages in classification accuracy, fitting ability, and generalization capacity. By integrating with deep learning technology, the model can be applied to grassland management and ecological restoration. Mobile devices can be used to conveniently capture image data, and information can be processed quickly. This provides efficient tools for grazing managers, environmental scientists, and conservation organizations. These tools assist in quickly assessing the extent of grassland desertification, optimizing grassland management and conservation decisions. Furthermore, strong technical support is offered for the ecological restoration and sustainable management of desertification grasslands.
Assessing Polarisation of Climate Phenomena Based on Long-Term Precipitation and Temperature Sequences
Authors: Twaróg Bernard
Published: September 2024

This article presents an analysis of monthly precipitation totals based on data from the Global Precipitation Climatology Centre and monthly mean temperatures from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for 377 catchments located worldwide. The data sequences, spanning 110 years from 1901 to 2010, are analysed. These long-term precipitation and temperature sequences are used to assess the variability in climate characteristics, referred to here as polarisation. This article discusses the measures of polarisation used in the natural sciences. This study adopts two measures to evaluate the phenomenon of polarisation. The first measure is defined based on a stationary time series, calculated as the ratio of the amplitude of values to the standard deviation. The second measure is proposed as the difference in trends of these values. Based on the analysis of monthly precipitation data in the studied catchments, polarisation components are confirmed in 25% of the cases, while in the remaining 75%, they are not. For temperature data, polarisation is confirmed in 12.2% of the cases and not in the remaining 88.8%. The trend analysis employs Mann–Kendall tests at a 5% significance level. The Pettitt test is used to determine the point of trend change for precipitation and temperature data. This article underscores the complex relationship between climate polarisation and sustainable development, reaffirming that sustainable development cannot be pursued in isolation from the challenges posed by climate change. It emphasises the importance of integrating environmental, social, and economic strategies to adapt to extreme climatic events and mitigate their effects. This research is supported by detailed graphical analyses, with the results presented in tabular form.
Short-Term Growth Dynamics of Spontaneous and Planted Vegetation on Subtropical Extensive Green Roof as Renaturalized Biotope
Authors: Law Caroline Man Yee , Pan Min , Sham Yik Tung , Ho Kenrick Chun Kiu
Published: September 2024

Spontaneous vegetation within a managed green space is often regarded as unwelcoming and insignificant weeds. This perception is still deep-rooted among green-space managers and the general public worldwide; they are generally uncertain about the management needs after allowing these groups of flora to take root. The short-term growth dynamics of both spontaneous and planted vegetation should be analyzed, and a widely acceptable, feasible management plan to balance aesthetic and ecological functions should be formulated with the backing of data and analysis for such fast-growing flora in tropical and subtropical regions. A manicured, extensive green roof with only seven (two native, five exotic) plant species was transformed into a renaturalized biotope by replacing 15 native ferns and forb species over 15 months. After planting, a baseline plant survey was conducted, with 54 plant species representing spontaneous growth and 14 planted species alive (7 planted native species survived, plus 7 species planted prior to renaturalization revived). Three quarterly plant surveys recorded the cover-abundance of each species, and the growth dynamics of the planted and spontaneous plant species were evaluated over the first year of study. During each quarterly survey, the number of planted and spontaneous plant species remained stable (ranging from 14 to 16 species and 51 to 54 species, respectively), with a constant turnover of 11 to 12 die-out species and 11 to 12 newly colonized or revived species. Plant coverage of different plant forms fluctuated slightly (within 7%) in the quarterly surveys according to seasonal changes, except for ferns, which outperformed (12% increase in coverage in a year) all the other plant forms. The height of the planted vegetation fluctuated in a year, being shorter during the summer, while the height of spontaneous vegetation remained stable throughout the year, exhibiting resilience to scouring heat. The seasonal growth tendencies of both planted and spontaneous plants were illustrated in relation to their species ranks, and further hierarchical cluster analysis was conducted for the clustering of spontaneous species. Their differential growth patterns provided comprehensive information or supported decisions regarding plant selection and maintenance, which is a scientific novelty within this unexplored topic. Management recommendations based on the findings were suggested to fulfill both aesthetic and ecological needs. Species with stable and less stable growth patterns could be useful to meet maintenance efficiency and biodiversity enhancement needs, respectively. These findings provide insights to form guiding principles for choosing plant species for renaturalization projects.
Innovating Built Environment Education to Achieve SDG 4: Key Drivers for Integrating Augmented Reality Technologies
Authors: Akinradewo Opeoluwa , Hafez Mohammed , Aigbavboa Clinton , Ebekozien Andrew , Adekunle Peter , Otasowie Osamudiamen
Published: September 2024

Augmented Reality Technologies (ARTs) are increasingly pivotal in transforming various industries, with notable implications for the built environment sector. This article delves into the drivers of ART adoption for education and training within the built environment, focusing on its role in enhancing educational delivery and operational efficiency. Utilising a structured survey distributed among professionals in South Africa’s built environment, this study employs descriptive and inferential statistics to analyse the data, identifying key trends and correlations. Our results demonstrated that ART significantly enhances task accuracy, fosters better collaboration and mitigates misinformation, thereby improving training and education outcomes. Professionals particularly highlight ART’s capacity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical site experience, underscoring its value in preparatory education and on-site training. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that the integration of ART into educational curricula and professional practices not only augments learning experiences but also propels safety and quality in construction projects. Given these findings, this study strongly recommends that stakeholders in the construction and educational sectors in South Africa prioritise the adoption of ART to fully leverage its benefits for innovation and competitive advantage in the built environment.
Authentication Framework for Augmented Reality with Data-Hiding Technique
Authors: Lin Chia-Chen , Nshimiyimana Aristophane , SaberiKamarposhti Morteza , Elbasi Ersin
Published: September 2024

Currently, most existing research on the security of augmented reality (AR) primarily focuses on user-to-user or user-to-infrastructure authentication, aiming to establish secure communication and prevent potential attacks, such as man-in-the-middle attacks, among others. AR techniques enable users to interact with virtual information and objects within the real environment. However, creating virtual objects can be time-consuming, and unfortunately, malicious individuals may unlawfully copy these objects and integrate them into their own AR scenarios. It is essential to authenticate whether AR objects and the associated content they interact with are legitimately integrated. This paper proposes a novel method for authenticating AR-delivered content using data-hiding techniques with the symmetric property. The proposed method utilizes data hiding to embed data within the content that AR objects interact with, enabling the identification of illegal and tampered AR objects. A scenario involving an AR e-book is defined, and two data-hiding methods are applied to this scenario. The experimental results demonstrate that both data-hiding methods effectively identify the tampered image page of an AR e-book under different tone versions, new trigger image(s) added, or new image(s) replacement.
Occupational Exposures, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Tomographic Findings in the Spanish Population
Authors: Loeb Eduardo , Zock Jan-Paul , Miravitlles Marc , Rodríguez Esther , Kromhout Hans , Vermeulen Roel , Soler-Cataluña Juan José , Soriano Joan B. , García-Río Francisco , de Lucas Pilar , Alfageme Inmaculada , Casanova Ciro , González-Moro José Rodríguez , Ancochea Julio , Cosío Borja G. , Ferrer Sancho Jaume
Published: September 2024

Self-reported occupational exposure was previously associated with COPD in the Spanish population. This study aimed to analyse the relationship between occupational exposure to various chemical and biological agents, COPD, emphysema, and the bronchial wall area, which was determined by lung computed tomography (CT) in 226 individuals with COPD and 300 individuals without COPD. Lifetime occupational exposures were assessed using the ALOHA(+) job exposure matrix, and CT and spirometry were also performed. COPD was associated with high exposure to vapours, gases, dust and fumes (VGDF) (OR 2.25 95% CI 1.19–4.22), biological dust (OR 3.01 95% CI 1.22–7.45), gases/fumes (OR 2.49 95% CI 1.20–5.17) and with exposure to various types of solvents. High exposure to gases/fumes, chlorinated solvents and metals (coefficient 8.65 95% CI 1.21–16.09, 11.91 95%CI 0.46- 23.36, 14.45 95% CI 4.42–24.49, respectively) and low exposure to aromatic solvents (coefficient 8.43 95% CI 1.16–15.70) were associated with a low 15th percentile of lung density indicating emphysema. We conclude that occupational exposure to several specific agents is associated with COPD and emphysema in the Spanish population.
A Review of Toxicological Profile of Fentanyl—A 2024 Update
Authors: Williamson Jessica , Kermanizadeh Ali
Published: September 2024

Fentanyl and its analogues are synthetic opioids of varying potencies that are unfortunately heavily abused. Over the last 15 years, fentanyl and its analogues have contributed to the increasing prominence of hospitalisation and numerous deaths due to drug overdose. In this comprehensive literature review, the mechanism of toxicity of the drug in humans is evaluated. A systematic approach was used whereby the relevant literature has been detailed where the toxicity of fentanyl and/or its analogues to different organs/systems were investigated. Furthermore, the review covers the post-mortem toxicological data and demographic information from past fatal cases where fentanyl was believed to be involved. Such insight into fentanyl toxicity is useful as an aid to better understand the toxic doses of the drug and the suspected mechanism of action and the unexpected complications associated with overdose incidences involving the drug. Finally, the review offers an overview of the traditional and emerging test systems used to investigate the adverse effects of fentanyl on human health.
Clinical Evaluation of the VirClia IgM/IgG Chemiluminescence Tests for the Diagnosis of Tick-Borne Encephalitis in an Endemic Part of Norway
Authors: Marvik Åshild , Dudman Susanne Gjeruldsen
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical usefulness of VirClia IgM/IgG single-assay chemiluminescence tests for the diagnosis of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in an endemic part of Norway. Patients hospitalized at Vestfold or Telemark Hospitals with suspected infection in the central nervous system (CNS) in the period between May 2021 and December 2023 were included, with 85 TBE cases identified. The VirClia IgM assay was positive in the initial serum sample in 75/85 cases, giving a sensitivity of 88.2% (95% CI, 79.4–94.2). The ReaScan TBE IgM rapid test was positive in 80/85 cases, with an estimated sensitivity of 94.1% (95% CI, 86.8–98.1). Vaccine breakthrough infections were the predominant cause of non-reactive IgM cases. The calculated specificity for the VirClia IgM was 95.8% (95% CI, 92.5–98.0). In conclusion, the sensitivity of the VirClia IgM was non-inferior to the ReaScan TBE IgM rapid test. However, isolated IgM reactive results must be interpreted with caution, since false-reactive results occur.
Transcriptomic Analysis of the Hepatopancreas in the Sex-Related Size Differences of Macrobrachium nipponense
Authors: Wang Yabing , Qiao Guangde , Yue Yanfeng , Peng Shiming , Fu Hongtuo
Published: September 2024

Macrobrachium nipponense, a commercially popular crustacean species within the Chinese context, is recognized for its exceptional nutritional composition and palatability. There are significant differences in growth between male and female M. nipponense. Herein, transcriptomics was used to determine the hepatopancreas transcriptome differences between sex-related size differences in M. nipponense. We identified 974 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the SHE (female) and BHE (male) groups, which were validated using RT-qPCR. The genes encoding matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MM9), Ribosome-binding protein 1 (RBP1), Aly/REF export factor 2, and hematological and neurological expressed 1 (HN1) may play a role in modulating the sex-related size differences observed in M. nipponense. Clusters of orthologous groups and gene ontology functional analysis demonstrated that the DEGs for sex-related size in M.nipponense were associated with various biological functions. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways analysis demonstrated that upregulated DEGs were mainly enriched in lysine biosynthesis, tryptophan metabolism, and lysine degradation pathways, whereas the downregulated DEGs were mainly enriched in ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, retinol metabolism, and drug metabolism-cytochrome P450 pathways. The results indicated the molecular mechanism underlying the sex-related size differences and identified key genes. This data will be invaluable to support explanations of individual differences between male and female prawns.