bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Pilot Study for Legionella pneumophila Volatilome Characterization Using a Gas Sensor Array and GC/MS Techniques
Authors: Capuano Rosamaria , Mansi Antonella , Paba Emilia , Marcelloni Anna Maria , Chiominto Alessandra , Proietto Anna Rita , Gordiani Andrea , Catini Alexandro , Paolesse Roberto , Tranfo Giovanna , Di Natale Corrado
Published: January 2023

Legionellosis is a generic term describing the pneumonic (Legionnaires’ disease, LD) and non-pneumonic (Pontiac fever, PF) forms of infection with bacteria belonging to the genus Legionella. Currently, the techniques used to detect Legionella spp. in water samples have certain limitations and drawbacks, and thus, there is a need to identify new tools to carry out low-cost and rapid analysis. In this regard, several studies demonstrated that a volatolomics approach rapidly detects and discriminates different species of microorganisms via their volatile signature. In this paper, the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) pattern emitted in vitro by Legionella pneumophila cultures is characterized and compared to those produced by other Legionella species and by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, using a gas sensor array and gas chromatograph mass spectrometer (GC-MS). Bacterial cultures were measured at the 3rd and 7th day after the incubation. Sensor array data analyzed via the K-nearest neighbours (k-NN) algorithm showed a sensitivity to Legionella pneumophila identification at around 89%. On the other hand, GC-MS identified a bouquet of VOCs, mainly alcohols and ketones, that enable the differentiation of Legionella pneumophila in respect to other waterborne microorganisms.
Fusion Graph Representation of EEG for Emotion Recognition
Authors: Li Menghang , Qiu Min , Kong Wanzeng , Zhu Li , Ding Yu
Published: January 2023

Various relations existing in Electroencephalogram (EEG) data are significant for EEG feature representation. Thus, studies on the graph-based method focus on extracting relevancy between EEG channels. The shortcoming of existing graph studies is that they only consider a single relationship of EEG electrodes, which results an incomprehensive representation of EEG data and relatively low accuracy of emotion recognition. In this paper, we propose a fusion graph convolutional network (FGCN) to extract various relations existing in EEG data and fuse these extracted relations to represent EEG data more comprehensively for emotion recognition. First, the FGCN mines brain connection features on topology, causality, and function. Then, we propose a local fusion strategy to fuse these three graphs to fully utilize the valuable channels with strong topological, causal, and functional relations. Finally, the graph convolutional neural network is adopted to represent EEG data for emotion recognition better. Experiments on SEED and SEED-IV demonstrate that fusing different relation graphs are effective for improving the ability in emotion recognition. Furthermore, the emotion recognition accuracy of 3-class and 4-class is higher than that of other state-of-the-art methods.
A Low-Cost, Low-Power, Multisensory Device and Multivariable Time Series Prediction for Beehive Health Monitoring
Authors: Rigakis Iraklis , Potamitis Ilyas , Tatlas Nicolas-Alexander , Psirofonia Giota , Tzagaraki Efsevia , Alissandrakis Eleftherios
Published: January 2023

We present a custom platform that integrates data from several sensors measuring synchronously different variables of the beehive and wirelessly transmits all measurements to a cloud server. There is a rich literature on beehive monitoring. The choice of our work is not to use ready platforms such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi and to present a low cost and power solution for long term monitoring. We integrate sensors that are not limited to the typical toolbox of beehive monitoring such as gas, vibrations and bee counters. The synchronous sampling of all sensors every 5 min allows us to form a multivariable time series that serves in two ways: (a) it provides immediate alerting in case a measurement exceeds predefined boundaries that are known to characterize a healthy beehive, and (b) based on historical data predict future levels that are correlated with hive’s health. Finally, we demonstrate the benefit of using additional regressors in the prediction of the variables of interest. The database, the code and a video of the vibrational activity of two months are made open to the interested readers.
Maintenance Performance in the Age of Industry 4.0: A Bibliometric Performance Analysis and a Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Werbińska-Wojciechowska Sylwia , Winiarska Klaudia
Published: January 2023

Recently, there has been a growing interest in issues related to maintenance performance management, which is confirmed by a significant number of publications and reports devoted to these problems. However, theoretical and application studies indicate a lack of research on the systematic literature reviews and surveys of studies that would focus on the evolution of Industry 4.0 technologies used in the maintenance area in a cross-sectional manner. Therefore, the paper reviews the existing literature to present an up-to-date and content-relevant analysis in this field. The proposed methodology includes bibliometric performance analysis and a review of the systematic literature. First, the general bibliometric analysis was conducted based on the literature in Scopus and Web of Science databases. Later, the systematic search was performed using the Primo multi-search tool following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The main inclusion criteria included the publication dates (studies published from 2012–2022), studies published in English, and studies found in the selected databases. In addition, the authors focused on research work within the scope of the Maintenance 4.0 study. Therefore, papers within the following research fields were selected: (a) augmented reality, (b) virtual reality, (c) system architecture, (d) data-driven decision, (e) Operator 4.0, and (f) cybersecurity. This resulted in the selection of the 214 most relevant papers in the investigated area. Finally, the selected articles in this review were categorized into five groups: (1) Data-driven decision-making in Maintenance 4.0, (2) Operator 4.0, (3) Virtual and Augmented reality in maintenance, (4) Maintenance system architecture, and (5) Cybersecurity in maintenance. The obtained results have led the authors to specify the main research problems and trends related to the analyzed area and to identify the main research gaps for future investigation from academic and engineering perspectives.
Perception of the Effects of Working from Home on Isolation and Stress by Spanish Workers during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: De Andres-Sanchez Jorge , Belzunegui-Eraso Angel , Souto-Romero Mar
Published: January 2023

This paper tests the explanatory capability of the individual, organizational, environmental and job factors regarding Spanish workers’ perception of isolation and stress owing to working from home (WFH). We used a survey of the Spanish agency Centro de Investigaciones Sociológicas on the Spanish population’s perceptions of several aspects of information technologies that was carried out in March 2021. Information overload, work overload and isolation are perceived to be the principal factors involved in WFH. Because WFH could be inhibit professional development, drawbacks in the infrastructure include overload and impediments to career development as the most relevant variables to explain the perception of isolation. Age and balance between family and work also have explanatory power, but less so for isolation and stress. While people with intermediate ages are less sensitive to isolation and stress, having a correct balance between work and personal life is a protective factor against these effects. From the results in this paper, we outline several questions that must be addressed by labour authorities via legal regulations and by firms and workers to adapt organizational and working culture to ensure the efficient implementation of WFH settings compatible with employees’ well-being.
Assessing the Environmental Impact of a University Sport Event: The Case of the 75th Italian National University Championships
Authors: Piccerillo Lidia , Misiti Francesco , Digennaro Simone
Published: January 2023

In recent years, there has been an increase in the attention towards sustainability by the organizing committees of mega-sport events due to the potential impacts they can have. Less attention was given to small-sport events: the carbon footprint of this type of event was seldom investigated unless it had a clear impact on the environment. The purpose of this study is to provide a qualitative-quantitative assessment of the sustainability of a university sporting event held at the University of Cassino and Southern Lazio in 2022. Athletes, technicians, coaches, and companions from various Italian universities were interviewed with the scope being to obtain information on all of the activities associated with the sporting event (travelling, accommodation, etc.). In addition, in-depth interviews were conducted with key members of the organizing committee with the goal of obtaining information relating to the actions undertaken by the Federation to safeguard the environment. The results on the sample indicate a carbon footprint of 40,551 kg of CO2e, of which 27,360 kg of CO2e are attributable to transport and 13,191 kg of CO2e are attributable to accommodations. Sporting event organizing committees should implement some strategies to encourage environmentally friendly behaviours to reduce the negative effects of their activities on the environment.
Analysis of Bed Sorting Methods for One Dimensional Sediment Transport Model
Authors: Lee Jeongmin , Ahn Jungkyu
Published: January 2023

Proper estimation of sediment movement is very critical for the management of alluvial rivers. Computing the sediment transport with single particle size is possible. However, particles on the river bed and in transport have a size distribution. It is very important to estimate bed material size change, such as bed armoring, in case of scour. In this study, the applicability of the bed sorting method, which is available with HEC-RAS, was analyzed. Bed sorting methods divide the bed into two or three layers. Numerical simulations were conducted in the Geum River, Korea. The performance of the simulation with respect to bed sorting methods was evaluated by considering the temporal change of bed material size during the scour and armoring process. Three layer methods are not applicable for a natural river and had oscillatory temporal bed material size variation. The two layer method has stable temporal bed material size changes and predicts the armoring of the bed properly even with limited field data. Consequently, the active layer method is reliable for natural rivers to simulate the bed material size change while applications of three layer methods require sufficient investigation.
Uncertainty and Financial Analysts’ Optimism: A Comparison between High-Tech and Low-Tech European Firms
Authors: Elkemali Taoufik
Published: January 2023

This study investigates the impact of information uncertainty on analysts’ earnings forecasts for a sample of European companies from 2010 to 2019. We argue that representativeness, anchoring and adjustment, and leniency biases jointly influence analysts’ forecasts and lead to optimism. We suggest that uncertainty boosts analysts’ optimism as behavioral biases increase in situations of low predictability. We test analysts’ optimism through the association between forecast errors and, separately, two modifications (forecast revision and forecast change) when these modifications are upwards and downwards. To examine the uncertainty effect, we implement descriptive and regression analyses for two subsamples of high-tech and low-tech firms. The evidence indicates that analysts are optimistic, as they overreact to positive prediction modifications and underreact to negative prediction modifications. The optimism is more significant for high-tech firms and increases considerably with the forecast horizon. For robustness, we utilize analysts’ forecast dispersion as a second proxy for uncertainty, and we obtain comparable results.
The Analysis of the Context of Digital Access to Healthcare in Russia
Authors: Polukhin Nikita V. , Nikolic Turnic Tamara R. , Ekkert Natalia V. , Reshetnikov Vladimir A. , Royuk Valery V. , Shastina Vera R. , Vodolagin Mikhail V.
Published: January 2023

Digital accessibility is one of the key principles of modern healthcare. The Internet has become a main tool to both communicate and engage patients. This study aims to analyze adults’ preferences on health information resources and the utilization of digital healthcare tools in Russia. The data were collected from the online survey conducted in August-September 2020. The association of factors with individual preferences was analyzed using Pearson’s χ2 with Holm–Bonferroni correction. The sample included 1319 respondents’ submissions. The most prioritized activity on the Internet among all the respondents was social media 64.1% (95% CI 61.4–66.6%). Females, those who are more educated, and more active Internet users were more likely to use all available sources to gather health information. Almost one-half of the respondents (48.0%; 95% CI 45.3–50.7%) reported that they did not use any digital tools to manage their medical appointments. Smartphones were more likely to be used by younger and more active Internet users, while personal computers were prioritized as the preferable device to access the Internet by males and older adults. The study revealed that both public health authorities and health providers must provide a wider range of information and digital interaction experiences appropriate to the needs and preferences of patients.
Boosting Energy Efficiency in Turkey: The Role of Public–Private Partnership Investment
Authors: Balcilar Mehmet , Uzuner Gizem , Nwani Chinazaekpere , Bekun Festus Victor
Published: January 2023

This study draws motivation from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (7.8.11), which highlight pertinent issues across the globe, among which are access to energy, responsible consumption, and sustainable development. To this end, we explored the pivotal role of public–private partnerships (PPP) investment in energy in Turkey, which is currently on an aggressive trajectory for its energy mix to energy efficiency. To avoid omitted variable bias in econometric strategies, we controlled for vital macroeconomic indicators such as foreign direct investment (FDI), trade flow, and economic growth. Empirical results showed a long-run equilibrium relationship between the outlined variables as traced by the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bounds test. Subsequently, we observed a positive relationship between public–private partnership (PPP) investment in energy and the country’s energy intensification in both the short and long runs. A similar trend was observed between FDI, GDP growth, and energy intensity. These outcomes have inherent policy caveats for the Turkish energy sector and economic trajectory. Policy implications include efficient investment in clean energy (renewables) as part of Turkey’s effort toward energy intensification to guarantee sustainable development. Additionally, the involvement of PPP is a welcome dimension for sustainable economic growth. Further insights are documented in the concluding remarks.
Utilization of an Automatic Tool for Building Material Selection by Integrating Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment in the Early Design Stages in BIM
Authors: Soust-Verdaguer Bernardette , Gutiérrez Moreno José Antonio , Llatas Carmen
Published: January 2023

Recent international scientific studies have described the current situation regarding CO2 emissions and have provided evidence of its catastrophic short- and medium-term consequences. The implementation of solutions of a more sustainable nature to reduce and mitigate this situation is becoming increasingly urgent. To this end, the integration of multi-dimension and life cycle assessment into the design process of buildings can help and support decision making. Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) is one of the scientific community’s most widely recognized methodologies for this purpose, combining the evaluation of the social, economic, and social dimensions (Triple Bottom Line). One of the main obstacles to implementing this methodology lies in the difficulties in automatically comparing alternative design options for the selection of different materials. To overcome this limitation, the authors developed the BIM3LCA (Building Information Modelling Three Life Cycle Assessment) tool conceived to guide the decision-making process during the early design steps. This study introduces a Building Information Modelling (BIM) plug-in development and validates its application in a case study to support the multi-criteria building material selection based on the LCSA implementation at the early design stage. Three building material alternatives for the structural system of a multi-family residential building are employed to validate this plug-in. The results show the viability of using this tool during the early design stages and demonstrates the consistency of the results regarding the use of the BIM model to conduct the LCSA. The study discusses the benefits and limitations of the BIM3LCA tool. This research contributes towards the integration of multi-dimension real-time assessment in the building design process by using semantically rich BIM models.
Soil Organic Matter Composition in Urban Soils: A Study of Wrocław Agglomeration, SW Poland
Authors: Bekier Jakub , Jamroz Elżbieta , Walenczak-Bekier Karolina , Uściła Martyna
Published: January 2023

In urban areas, because of anthropopressure, the transformation of the soil cover can lead to the complete destruction of the natural layout and properties of these soils. The object of this study was to determine the quantity and quality of soil organic matter (SOM) originating in the topsoil horizons of the central part of Wroclaw (SW of Poland). Fractional composition of SOM and humic substances (HS) analysis were performed. Elemental composition and CP MAS 13C NMR spectra for the humic acids (HA) were determined, and α (aromaticity) and ω (oxidation) ratios were calculated. Total organic carbon content ranged from 22.39 to 66.1 g kg–1, while that of total nitrogen ranged from 2.09 to 4.6 g kg1. In most analysed urban soils, the highest share in SOM was found for residual carbon (CR), while HA of low maturity was the predominant group over FA. CP MAS 13C NMR spectroscopy of HA molecules indicated the structure of the samples was dominated by compounds with low aromaticity cores and considerable contents of aliphatic components. In urban soils, efforts should be made to enhance organic matter transformation into more matured and stable forms via, e.g., compost application and chemical treatments, and lawn maintenance should be very strictly controlled and limited.
Technologies for the Rational Use of Animal Waste: A Review
Authors: Iskakov Ruslan , Sugirbay Adilet
Published: January 2023

Animal waste can serve as a raw material source for feed preparation, and can also be used, after appropriate processing, as fuel, fertilizer, biogas, and other useful products. In addition, the practical use of these wastes eliminates their mandatory disposal. Recycling animal waste is a feature of the circular economy, leading to environmental sustainability. In this regard, we conducted a search and review of contemporary scientific publications from open sources, including publications and data from Internet portals, Web of Science, Scopus scientometric databases, websites of patent offices, libraries, and reading rooms. It has been found that animal by-products are desirable for use in combination with vegetable protein sources. The 15 most relevant types of animal waste and their use are indicated based on current scientific publications. Moreover, 13 types of feed of animal origin, along with their purposes and descriptions, are also identified. Current scientific publications and research on the processing of insects into feed; the use of bird droppings, meat, and bone and bone meal; and the processing of seafood waste, bird waste, and eggshells are reviewed. As a result, firstly, the most important types of technological equipment involved in animal waste processing technologies, particularly devices for drying, grinding, and mixing, are analyzed and discussed. Secondly, technologies for processing waste into useful products of animal origin are analyzed and discussed.
Factors Influencing Behavior Intention in Digital Investment Services of Mutual Fund Distributors Adoption in Thailand
Authors: Kasemharuethaisuk Haruthai , Samanchuen Taweesak
Published: January 2023

There are various types of mutual fund distributors in Thailand that utilize technology to provide investment services to individual investors. These services can be accessed through mobile or internet banking, allowing investors to make transactions and invest in mutual funds at their convenience. This work aims to identify the factors that influence individual investors in Thailand to use digital investment services offered by brokerages. We have developed a conceptual model based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM2) and relevant literature on fintech and financial behavior, comprising seven variables and six hypotheses. Our research method involves a questionnaire survey of Thai investors and the use of partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) for data analysis. The results show that individual investors’ intention to use digital investment services is significantly impacted by their perception of the usefulness of these services. Additionally, this intention is also influenced by other variables such as convenience, trust, and subjective norm, but not by perceived ease of use. This may be because most of our study’s participants are tech-savvy. Our findings provide insight into the perspectives and perceptions of Thai individual investors who have experiences of mutual fund investment.
The Use of Social Media for Development Communication and Social Change: A Review
Authors: Ihsaniyati Hanifah , Sarwoprasodjo Sarwititi , Muljono Pudji , Gandasari Dyah
Published: January 2023

The use of social media to share knowledge is interesting and in demand by many people. Literature studies on the use of social media to share knowledge have been widely carried out, but studies on development communication and social change need further exploration. This study aims to provide a review of research on the use of social media for knowledge sharing in the context of development communication and social change. This research is a systematic literature review using the PRISMA protocol. This protocol consists of four stages: identification, abstract screening, eligibility of manuscripts, and determination of selected articles. Literature research is carried out using particular keyword combinations with Boolean logic from reliable sources, namely Web of Science, Scopus.com, and PubMed. The selected literature research is 57 articles. Data were analyzed qualitatively with the help of NVIVO 12 Plus and Ms. Excel of 2021 version. The results of the study show that most of the research uses a quantitative approach. The health and education sectors dominate this study, most research subjects are the public, most of them are located in developed countries, and Facebook is the most researched social media. This study found various types of literature research based on motivation, data collection techniques, and the role of variables. Many theories and variables were applied in this study. The results show that there are limitations and gaps in research on the use of social media for knowledge sharing in the context of development communication and social change, which can be utilized by further research.
Social Perspectives towards Biobased Products and Textiles
Authors: Fernández Víctor , Laborda Elena , Del-Busto Felipe , Bartolomé Carmen
Published: January 2023

This study explores and compares stakeholders’ perceptions of biobased products over the last few years. Three groups of stakeholders are included: consumers, the business-to-business market, and public procurers. The main research method consists of a qualitative analysis of some of the results obtained in a series of surveys in Europe-wide projects with the aim of understanding the behaviour, motivations, and concerns of stakeholders related to biobased products. The aim is to gather up-to-date information on the opinion of society from the perspective of the different actors on this type of product, focusing on textiles, in order to make a series of proposals to favour their inclusion in the market, while at the same time answering which are the most influential aspects when it comes to favouring or complicating the access of bioproducts to the market. The document compiles information from multiple sources and years (2014–2020) and, together with the most current and available information (2021), is processed in such a way that the information can be compared across years and stakeholders, allowing to observe the evolution over time of societal perspectives and the variation in opinion according to stakeholder. The results are presented according to three themes: (1) level of awareness, (2) product information, and (3) benefits, drivers, and barriers. The main findings indicate a general lack of awareness of biobased products, as well as several divergences in terms of the best methods to promote market access for biobased textiles.
COVID-19 Spatial Policy: A Comparative Review of Urban Policies in the European Union and the Middle East
Authors: Śleszyński Przemysław , Khavarian-Garmsir Amir Reza , Nowak Maciej , Legutko-Kobus Paulina , Abadi Mohammad Hajian Hossein , Nasiri Noura Al
Published: January 2023

This article reviews existing research and discussions on urban policy in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis focuses on the first pandemic period in the European Union and the Middle East. A search was conducted in available databases and search engines (Scopus, Google Scholar). A critical bibliometric analysis of publications from the first pandemic period was carried out. The most frequent topics covered were spatial organization, transport, environment, and social issues. The analysis showed that the quantitative scope and depth of the selected topics in the European Union and the Middle East differ. Activities defined as “exploitative” should be considered a particularly interesting point of reference in both analyzed regions.
Corncob as Carbon Source in the Production of Xanthan Gum in Different Strains Xanthomonas sp.
Authors: Jesus Meirielly , Mata Fernando , Batista Rejane A. , Ruzene Denise S. , Albuquerque-Júnior Ricardo , Cardoso Juliana C. , Vaz-Velho Manuela , Pires Preciosa , Padilha Francine F. , Silva Daniel P.
Published: January 2023

Xanthan gum (XG) is a biopolymer obtained in fermentation and used as a rheology control agent in aqueous systems and in stabilizing emulsions and suspensions. XG, together with other polysaccharides, can form soft, cohesive composite gels. The carbon source in the fermentative process is responsible for one-third of the production costs, and the search for less expensive and sustainable alternatives is ongoing. The use of agricultural residues such as the corncob is highly suggestive due to their abundance. This study aims to evaluate the use of derived hemicellulose fractions from the alkaline extraction of corncob as a carbon source in the production of XG in trials using four strains of Xanthomonas sp. (629, 1078, 254, and S6). The results indicate that strain 629 provides the higher yield (8.37 ± 5.75 g L−1) while using a fermentation medium containing a carbon source of saccharose (1.25%), hemicellulose fractions (3.75%), and salts. In this same medium, the strain 629 produces gum in 3% aqueous solution, showing the higher apparent viscosity (9298 ± 31 mPa s−1) at a shear rate of 10 s−1 at 25 °C. In conclusion, corncob is proven to be a promising sustainable alternative carbon source in the obtention of XG, improving the economic viability of the process within a biorefinery context. Saccharose must, however, also be included in the fermentation medium.
How Do Green Finance and Green Technology Innovation Impact the Yangtze River Economic Belt’s Industrial Structure Upgrading in China? A Moderated Mediation Effect Model Based on Provincial Panel Data
Authors: Zhang Ning , Sun Jinhua , Tang Yu , Zhang Jianqun , Boamah Valentina , Tang Decai , Zhang Xiaoxue
Published: January 2023

Industrial structure upgrading is a huge driving force for China’s green economic development. The Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB), a crucial component of China’s spatial economic pattern, is facing the dual pressure of economic development and environmental protection. Therefore, it needs to have its industrial structure upgraded immediately. This article measures the development levels of green finance using the entropy method and bases its analysis on the panel data of 11 provinces (municipalities) in the YREB from 2005 to 2019. A moderated mediating effect model is then built to thoroughly examine the influence paths of green finance and green technology innovation on industrial structure upgrading. According to the empirical findings, green finance and green technology innovation have a significant direct role in promoting the upgrading of industrial structures. They reflect significant regional disparities across the East, Midland, and West. Second, green technology innovation has an effective transmission mechanism in green finance, boosting industrial structure upgrading. Third, environmental regulations positively regulate green finance’s direct and indirect routes to support industrial structure upgrading. This study is the first to combine green finance, green technology innovation, environmental regulation, and industrial structure upgrading under one research framework, broadening the research scope of industrial transformation. These research findings provide theoretical and practical guidance for upgrading China’s Yangtze River Economic Belt’s industrial structure.
Exploring the Knowledge Structure and Hotspot Evolution of Greenwashing: A Visual Analysis Based on Bibliometrics
Authors: Wang Wei , Ma Dechao , Wu Fengzhi , Sun Mengxin , Xu Shuangqing , Hua Qiuyue , Sun Ziyuan
Published: January 2023

As environmental protection changes from a purely social benefit to a social benefit mixed with an economic gain, the marketing strategy practice of corporate greenwashing is starting to become a popular research topic. However, the total number of existing review articles on greenwashing research is relatively small, and there are deficiencies in quantitative research and generalizability, scientificity and systematization. This paper attempts to bridge these gaps by combining systems theory with bibliometrics and using visualization techniques to analyze the evolution of knowledge structures and hotspots in greenwashing. Based on this, this paper takes the literature on greenwashing in the Web of Science core set database from 2004–2022 as a research sample and uses CiteSpace 5.8.R3 to conduct a descriptive statistical analysis and carve a visual map to reveal the evolution pattern of research in the field of greenwashing in a comprehensive and systematic way. The findings show that greenwashing research is prevalent in developed countries and continues to attract more scholars globally, focusing on the interpretation of greenwashing definitions and concepts, influencing factors, consequences and governance models. Finally, this paper introduces the system governance theory and improves organizational isomorphism theory to further generalize the existing research framework on greenwashing and provides an outlook on the future direction of greenwashing research from three perspectives: greening screening research, impact research and governance research.
Understanding the Influence of CPE on Brand Image and Brand Commitment: The Mediating Role of Brand Identification
Authors: Khan Imran , Fatma Mobin
Published: January 2023

It has been recognized that there is a need for a new research area that concentrates on perceptions rather than reactions. The present study proposes a conceptual framework to incorporate consumer-perceived ethicality (CPE) and its influence on brand identification. Also, this research measure the mediating influence of brand identification on consumer brand image and brand commitment. A nonrandom sampling procedure was employed, yielding a total of 368 valid responses. This study’s findings suggest that CPE has a positive and significant direct impact on brand identification. The partial mediating impact of brand identification is observed in the path relationship from CPE to brand commitment. By examining the consequences of customer responses to CPE, businesses can develop better strategies that are desirable from both a normative and a business perspective. This study’s overall managerial implications include improving ethical practices since they have a significant impact on the consumer formation of brand commitment.
Gamified Text Testing for Sustainable Fairness
Authors: Takan Savaş , Ergün Duygu , Katipoğlu Gökmen
Published: January 2023

AI fairness is an essential topic as regards its topical and social-societal implications. However, there are many challenges posed by automating AI fairness. Based on the challenges around automating fairness in texts, our study aims to create a new fairness testing paradigm that can gather disparate proposals on fairness on a single platform, test them, and develop the most effective method, thereby contributing to the general orientation on fairness. To ensure and sustain mass participation in solving the fairness problem, gamification elements are used to mobilize individuals’ motivation. In this framework, gamification in the design allows participants to see their progress and compare it with other players. It uses extrinsic motivation elements, i.e., rewarding participants by publicizing their achievements to the masses. The validity of the design is demonstrated through the example scenario. Our design represents a platform for the development of practices on fairness and can be instrumental in making contributions to this issue sustainable. We plan to further realize a plot application of this structure designed with the gamification method in future studies.
From Home to Inn: The Evolution of Rural Dwellings in the Taihang Area of Northern Henan
Authors: Duan Wei , Yang Xinyu , Zhang Ting , Cai Haoxian
Published: January 2023

With the rapid development of China’s economy, rural tourism is developing in full swing throughout the country, attracting significant capital inflow with its unique historical features and natural landscapes. In recent years, vernacular architectures are experiencing a spontaneous transformation. The evolution of vernacular architecture presents a development trend of “self-organization”. In order to study the evolution of vernacular architecture in the context of tourism development, the authors consider tourism villages in the southern Taihang area. Samples of rural vernacular architecture were selected, analysing spatial typologies and the theory of self-organization in the development process. Finally, the article finds that the evolving development mechanisms are considered as vernacular architecture of the region shifts from disorder to order.
A Comparative Study on Smart Windows Focusing on Climate-Based Energy Performance and Users’ Comfort Attributes
Authors: Rashidzadeh Zhina , Heidari Matin Negar
Published: January 2023

A facade can control interaction between the building and the environment. Advancements in control technologies and material science give the opportunity of using smart windows in a high-performance facade to improve the building’s energy performance and users’ comfort. This study aims to propose practical recommendations for smart windows’ implementation over various climate zones across the world. To follow this aim, 54 studies published from 2013 to 2022 collected from architecture, engineering, and material science databases and have been reviewed, and seven types of smart windows including electrochromic, photovoltachromic, gasochromic, thermochromic, photochromic, hydrochromic, and Low-E have been identified. Moreover, the thermal properties and visual features of smart coatings used in the windows and their impacts on energy efficiency and users’ comfort were recognized. Then, a comparative study was conducted to identify and propose the most efficient coating utilized in the structure of smart windows across different climate zones.
Integration of the Standalone ‘Risk Assessment’ Section in Project Level Environmental Impact Assessment Reports for Value Addition: An Indian Case Analysis
Authors: Rathi Arjun Kumar A.
Published: January 2023

Both environmental impact assessment (EIA) and risk assessment (RA) instituted some 50 years ago are interdisciplinary and decision-support tools and have analogies in their procedural steps. Environmental risk assessment could be employed as such or as complementary to EIA for environmental management. This study aims to examine how RA is dealt with in the EIA reports of greenfield projects. The investigation reveals that RA is treated as a standalone exercise and too inadequately in EIA studies. There is a lack of well-defined criteria and methodologies for RA in different contexts, evaluation of prediction uncertainties, residual risks, assimilating RA in EIA, regulatory framework to strengthen RA integration in EIA, objective review of RA by the competent authority, and EIA follow-up. Unambiguous terms of reference are proposed for RA in EIA under the prevailing regulation for immediate implementation. The duration and cost of preparing and reviewing EIA reports integrated with RA would increase but there would be more value addition to the EIA studies. Comprehensive EIA regulation, RA-related scoping, and institutional capacity building could help promote such integration that is crucial for assessing industrial and other anthropogenic calamities at the project development stage.
Determinants of Health Management Practices’ Utilization and Its Effect on Poultry Farmers’ Income in Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Olutumise Adewale Isaac , Oladayo Taiwo Olarotimi , Oparinde Lawrence Olusola , Ajibefun Igbekele Amos , Amos Taye Timothy , Hosu Yiseyon Sunday , Alimi Idowu
Published: January 2023

Nigeria is the second largest poultry industry in Africa, with its poultry industry the most commercialized livestock sub-sector. Despite its significance, the farmers still experience economic losses due to disease outbreaks. Hence, the application of standard Health Management Practices (HMPs) is very important, as these practices improve the welfare of animals and increase animal production and farmers’ income. This paper examined the determinants of HMP’s utilization and its effect on poultry farmers’ income in Ondo State, Nigeria. We used multistage sampling procedures to select 120 respondents who provided data for the study. The study used Generalized Poisson Regression (GPR) and Conditional Quantile Regression (CQR) models to estimate the determinants of HMP’s utilization intensity, and its heterogeneous effects on farmers’ income, respectively. The results revealed that the HMP’s utilization intensity was significantly driven by variables such as education, training, experience, land ownership, stock size, mortality rate, and production system. In addition, HMP’s utilization had significant heterogeneous effects on farmers’ income. Therefore, the government and other developmental agencies should promote HMP’s utilization through the provision of poultry-based skills acquisition and vocational education.
Restoration of the City Walls of Monopoli in Puglia (Italy)—The 16th Century House within the Walls: From the Discovery of the Gunboat to the Recovery of the Basement
Authors: Diceglie Angela
Published: January 2023

This article presents part of the results of the restoration of a house within the walls of the ancient city of Monopoli in Puglia, Italy. The aim is to propose a methodological approach for the conservation of minor assets of ancient centers that are aimed at recognizing, on the one hand, the historical and cultural value of the asset and, on the other, the seismic vulnerability of the artefacts, which is a key topical problem for the conservation of historic cities. A brief introduction on the context of belonging, which is characterized by similar cases, precedes the following preliminary investigations: a historiographical investigation on the urban landscape; then, a critical inquiry and related essays. Preliminary investigations have rendered it possible to highlight: on the one hand, the phases in respect of the transformation of the building in question (i.e., 3rd century BC–19th century AD); and on the other hand, to identify a 15th century gunboat and an underground room that is characterized by ancient walls. The data, acquired in the cognitive phase and confirmed by the essays, determined the project. In other words “knowledge for the restoration of artefacts” was achieved. The project is aimed at reversibility, recognition and compatibility. Furthermore, it provides for the recovery and enhancement of the underground environment with horizontal structures and connections between the two levels that will possess reversibility criteria through the use of dry technologies. The restoration site started with the excavation of the base, which was a very complex process from an operational point of view. Moreover, on the one hand, such a process highlighted the hidden structures of the ancient city. On the other hand, it has highlighted an important criticality in relation to the foundation system, which is closely linked to the process evolution of the manufactured article. The restoration site of the external walls, carried out with sustainable techniques and materials, has brought to light this ancient fifteenth-century gunboat.
A Framework for Evidence-Based Landscape Architecture: Cooling a Hot Urban Climate through Design
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Peng Jingxi , Li Dongying , Brown Robert D.
Published: January 2023

The rapidly advancing knowledge of the interactions between people and their environment provides opportunities for designers to practice evidence-based landscape architecture (EBLA) in designing outdoor spaces. Recent studies have proposed some characteristics of successful EBLA projects, including the following: amicable skepticism; the questioning of assumptions; the verification of information; the application of evidence to the problem at hand; and data that is openly reported and replicable. These five steps were the basis for a framework that was developed and tested through the redesign of a downtown area in a hot-climate city, El Paso, Texas. The process started with the collection of base information, including local climate conditions and evidence on heat-related illness. Case studies and a search of the literature led to the questioning of some assumptions, including the expectation that the air temperature on the site could be substantially modified through design. On-site microclimate measurements were used to confirm this insight, and were used to validate computer models. The validated models were used to assess the thermal comfort conditions across the site. A human energy budget model was used to identify the key atmospheric elements that both strongly affect a person’s heat health, and that can also be readily modified through landscape architectural design. These led to the development of guidelines, which were developed as a ‘tool kit’ and applied to the design. Amicable skepticism was practiced throughout the process to confirm that the decisions were made based on evidence, not opinions or preconceived notions. The resulting design was tested using computer models to check whether the goal of thermally comfortable conditions was met. The quantitative results illustrated the amount of improvement to the thermal comfort of site visitors. This process is universal and can be applied to any landscape.
A Social Marketing Approach to Voluntary Simplicity: Communicating to Consume Less
Authors: Balderjahn Ingo , Appenfeller Dennis
Published: January 2023

Higher eco-efficiency will not be enough to slow global warming caused by climate change. To keep global warming to 2 degrees, people also need to reduce their consumption. At present, however, many who would be able to do so seem unwilling to comply. Given the threats of a runaway climate change, urgent measures are needed to promote less personal consumption. This study, therefore, examines whether social marketing consume-less appeals can be used to encourage consumers to voluntarily abstain from consumption. As part of an online experiment with nearly 2000 randomly sampled users of an online platform for sustainable consumption, we tested the effectiveness of five different “consume-less” appeals based on traditional advertising formats (including emotional, informational, and social claims). The study shows that consume-less appeals are capable of limiting personal desire to buy. However, significant differences in the effectiveness of the appeal formats used in this study were observed. In addition, we found evidence of rebound effects, which leads us to critically evaluate the overall potential of social marketing to promote more resource-conserving lifestyles. While commercial consumer-free appeals have previously been studied (e.g., Patagonia’s “Don’t Buy This Jacked”), this study on the effectiveness of non-commercial consume-free appeals is novel and provides new insights.
Providing an Integrated Vulnerability Assessment Indicator System (VAIS) to Measure the Spatial Vulnerability of Areas near Seveso Establishments in Thessaloniki (Greece)
Authors: Kakia Spyridoula , Pozoukidou Georgia , Vagiona Dimitra G.
Published: January 2023

The most efficient way to reduce damage and losses in metropolitan areas with complex functions that are exposed to disaster risks is to reduce their vulnerability, which necessitates an assessment of the urban system’s vulnerability. Regarding the areas located near Seveso establishments, they are characterized by high levels of vulnerability, both spatially and sectorally, as they present an increased risk due to the possible occurrence of large-scale industrial accidents. In this study, a vulnerability assessment indicator system (VAIS) that assesses the vulnerability presented in the areas located near Seveso facilities was proposed. The VAIS consisted of social, environmental and spatial indicators, and an assessment of the indicators was carried out by collecting the appropriate data. The study area is located in the western part of Thessaloniki and includes the Seveso site and the adjacent municipal districts. Prioritization of the examined municipal districts based on their overall vulnerability was carried out using multicriteria analysis methods. The results showed that there was a convergence among the three categories of vulnerability (social, environmental and spatial) in the areas that presented the highest vulnerability. The MD of Kalochori (MD7) was the most vulnerable MD in the study, while the less vulnerable ones varied depending on the vulnerability category (social, environmental or spatial) considered each time. The proposed methodology may prove to be a highly useful tool in decision-making processes when used by the relevant authorities who are qualified to define and implement a site-specific security management system.