bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Off-Lattice Monte-Carlo Approach for Studying Nucleation and Evaporation Phenomena at the Molecular Scale
Authors: Theodorakis Panagiotis E. , Wang Yongjie , Chen Aiqiang , Liu Bin
Published: April 2021

Droplet nucleation and evaporation are ubiquitous in nature and many technological applications, such as phase-change cooling and boiling heat transfer. So far, the description of these phenomena at the molecular scale has posed challenges for modelling with most of the models being implemented on a lattice. Here, we propose an off-lattice Monte-Carlo approach combined with a grid that can be used for the investigation of droplet formation and evaporation. We provide the details of the model, its implementation as Python code, and results illustrating its dependence on various parameters. The method can be easily extended for any force-field (e.g., coarse-grained, all-atom models, and external fields, such as gravity and electric field). Thus, we anticipate that the proposed model will offer opportunities for a wide range of studies in various research areas involving droplet formation and evaporation and will also form the basis for further method developments for the molecular modelling of such phenomena.
Effect of Pre-Stretch on the Precipitation Behavior and the Mechanical Properties of 2219 Al Alloy
Authors: Li Guo-Ai , Ma Zheng , Jiang Jian-Tang , Shao Wen-Zhu , Liu Wei , Zhen Liang
Published: April 2021

The influence of pre-stretch on the mechanical properties of 2219 Al alloys sheets were systematically investigated, with the aim of examining the age-strengthening in parts draw-formed from as-quenched sheets. The precipitation was characterized based on differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis and transmission electron microscope (TEM) observation of specimens of as-quenched and quenched-stretched condition to address the influence of pre-stretching. A tensile test was performed to evaluate the effect on mechanical properties. The introduction of pre-stretching endues increased yield strength (YS) and thus can be helpful to exert the potential of the alloy. Peak YS of 387.5 and 376.8 MPa are obtained when specimens pre-stretched for 10% are aged at 150 and 170 °C, respectively, much higher than that obtained in the non-stretched specimens (319.2 MPa). The precipitation of Guinier-Preston zone (G.P. zones) and the transition to θ″ shifts to a lower temperature when pre-stretched is performed. The high density of dislocations developed during the stretching contributes to the acceleration in precipitation. Quench-stretched specimens present a much quicker age-hardening response at the beginning stage, which endue higher peaked yield strength. The yield strength, however, decrease much more quickly due to the recovery that occurs during the aging processes. The study suggested the feasibility of aging draw-formed components of 2219 Al alloy to obtain high strength.
Memory Effect on a LDH/zeolite A Composite: An XRD In Situ Study
Authors: Bezerra Breno G. P. , Bieseki Lindiane , Mello Mariele I. S. de , Silva Djalma R. da , Rodella Cristiane B. , Pergher Sibele
Published: April 2021

In this memory effect study, hydrotalcite-type compounds in the lamellar double hydroxide-like (LDH)/zeolite A composite material were analyzed using X-Ray Diffration XRD) in situ experiments. Three samples were analyzed: Al,Mg-LDH, Al,Mg-LDH/ZA composite, and a physical mixture (50/50 wt%) of zeolite A and Al,Mg-LDH. The Al,Mg-LDH sample was treated at 500 °C in an O2 atmosphere and subsequently rehydrated. The Al,Mg-LDH/ZA composites had three treatments: one was performed at 300 °C in a He atmosphere, and two treatments were performed with an O2 atmosphere at 300 and 500 °C. In the physical mixture, two treatments were carried out under O2 flow at 500 °C and under He flow at 300 °C. Both went through the rehydration process. All samples were also analyzed by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that the LDH phase in the Al,Mg-LDH/ZA compounds has memory effects, and thus, the compound can be calcined and rehydrated. For the LDH in the composite, the best heat treatment system is a temperature of 300 °C in an inert atmosphere.
Hardening Slurries with Fluidized-Bed Combustion By-Products and Their Potential Significance in Terms of Circular Economy
Authors: Kledyński Zbigniew , Falaciński Paweł , Machowska Agnieszka , Szarek Łukasz , Krysiak Łukasz
Published: April 2021

Hardening slurries (water-bentonite-binder mixtures) constitute a well-established material used broadly, i.a., for cut-off walls in civil and water engineering. Although they usually contain Portland cement, similar to common concrete, their properties differ greatly, mostly due to a much higher water content. This characteristic of hardening slurries creates unique opportunities for the utilization of significant quantities of industrial by-products that are deemed problematic in the concrete industry. This article investigates the effect of the addition of by-products of fluidized-bed combustion of hard, brown coal and municipal sewage sludge, as well as ground granulated blast furnace slag, on the properties of slurries. Unconfined compressive strength tests, as well as mercury porosimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction analyses were performed. The results suggest that it is possible to design hardening slurry mixes of desired properties, both in liquid and solid state, containing at least 100–300 kg/m3 of industrial waste. This includes cement-free slurries based entirely on industrial by-products as binders. In addition, the analyzed slurries exhibited good chemical resistance to landfill eluates, at the same time effectively immobilizing heavy metals. It was concluded that hardening slurry technology can ensure the safe deposition of significant amounts of waste that would be otherwise difficult to manage, thus contributing to the circular economy concept.
A Subclass of q-Starlike Functions Defined by Using a Symmetric q-Derivative Operator and Related with Generalized Symmetric Conic Domains
Authors: Khan Shahid , Hussain Saqib , Naeem Muhammad , Darus Maslina , Rasheed Akhter
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the concepts of symmetric q-calculus and conic regions are used to define a new domain Ωk,q,α˜, which generalizes the symmetric conic domains. By using the domain Ωk,q,α˜, we define a new subclass of analytic and q-starlike functions in the open unit disk U and establish some new results for functions of this class. We also investigate a number of useful properties and characteristics of this subclass, such as coefficients estimates, structural formulas, distortion inequalities, necessary and sufficient conditions, closure and subordination results. The proposed approach is also compared with some existing methods to show the reliability and effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Obese Animals as Models for Numerous Diseases: Advantages and Applications
Authors: Ghanemi Abdelaziz , Yoshioka Mayumi , St-Amand Jonny
Published: April 2021

With the advances in obesity research, a variety of animal models have been developed to investigate obesity pathogenesis, development, therapies and complications. Such obese animals would not only allow us to explore obesity but would also represent models to study diseases and conditions that develop with obesity or where obesity represents a risk factor. Indeed, obese subjects, as well as animal models of obesity, develop pathologies such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, inflammation and metabolic disorders. Therefore, obese animals would represent models for numerous diseases. Although those diseases can be induced in animals by chemicals or drugs without obesity development, having them developed as consequences of obesity has numerous advantages. These advantages include mimicking natural pathogenesis processes, using diversity in obesity models (diet, animal species) to study the related variabilities and exploring disease intensity and reversibility depending on obesity development and treatments. Importantly, therapeutic implications and pharmacological tests represent key advantages too. On the other hand, obesity prevalence is continuously increasing, and, therefore, the likelihood of having a patient suffering simultaneously from obesity and a particular disease is increasing. Thus, studying diverse diseases in obese animals (either induced naturally or developed) would allow researchers to build a library of data related to the patterns or specificities of obese patients within the context of pathologies. This may lead to a new branch of medicine specifically dedicated to the diseases and care of obese patients, similar to geriatric medicine, which focuses on the elderly population.
The History of Carbon Monoxide Intoxication
Authors: Megas Ioannis-Fivos , Beier Justus P. , Grieb Gerrit
Published: April 2021

Intoxication with carbon monoxide in organisms needing oxygen has probably existed on Earth as long as fire and its smoke. What was observed in antiquity and the Middle Ages, and usually ended fatally, was first successfully treated in the last century. Since then, diagnostics and treatments have undergone exciting developments, in particular specific treatments such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy. In this review, different historic aspects of the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of carbon monoxide intoxication are described and discussed.
Asbestosis Mimicking Metastatic Lung Cancer: Case Report
Authors: An Jin , Song Minjeong , Chang Boksoon
Published: April 2021

The clinical diagnosis of asbestosis is primarily based on chest radiographic evidence of pleural thickening and interstitial fibrosis combined with a history of exposure to asbestos. We report herein the case of a 65-year-old man with asbestosis pathologically diagnosed after surgical lung biopsy. He had a work history including farming, cementing, and casting and was admitted with dyspnea. Chest computed tomography revealed multiple well-defined nodules in both lungs and a 4.1 cm peribronchial consolidation with fibrotic changes in the right lower lobe. We suspected metastatic lung cancer and video-assisted thoracoscopic biopsy was performed in the lung lesion of the right lower lobe. Asbestosis was confirmed following histological examination. The patient is currently completing outpatient visits without significant changes.
Performance of PVDF Based Membranes with 2D Materials for Membrane Assisted-Crystallization Process
Authors: Frappa Mirko , Macedonio Francesca , Gugliuzza Annarosa , Jin Wanqin , Drioli Enrico
Published: April 2021

Membrane crystallization (MCr) is a promising and innovative process for the recovery of freshwater from seawater and for the production of salt crystals from the brine streams of desalination plants. In the present work, composite polymeric membranes for membrane crystallization were fabricated using graphene and bismuth telluride inks prepared according to the wet-jet milling (WJM) technology. A comparison between PVDF-based membranes containing a few layers of graphene or bismuth telluride and PVDF-pristine membranes was carried out. Among the 2D composite membranes, PVDF with bismuth telluride at higher concentration (7%) exhibited the highest flux (about 3.9 L∙m−2h−1, in MCr experiments performed with 5 M NaCl solution as feed, and at a temperature of 34 ± 0.2 °C at the feed side and 11 ± 0.2 °C at the permeate side). The confinement of graphene and bismuth telluride in PVDF membranes produced more uniform NaCl crystals with respect to the pristine PVDF membrane, especially in the case of few-layer graphene. All the membranes showed rejection equal to or higher than 99.9% (up to 99.99% in the case of the membrane with graphene). The high rejection together with the good trans-membrane flux confirmed the interesting performance of the process, without any wetting phenomena, at least during the performed crystallization tests.
A Dedicated Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Unit during a Respiratory Pandemic: Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Part II: Clinical Management
Authors: Shah Aakash , Dave Sagar , Galvagno Samuel , George Kristen , Menne Ashley R. , Haase Daniel J. , McCormick Brian , Rector Raymond , Dahi Siamak , Madathil Ronson J. , Deatrick Kristopher B. , Ghoreishi Mehrdad , Gammie James S. , Kaczorowski David J. , Scalea Thomas M. , Menaker Jay , Herr Daniel , Tabatabai Ali , Krause Eric
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome (CARDS) has several distinctions from traditional acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); however, patients with refractory respiratory failure may still benefit from veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) support. We report our challenges caring for CARDS patients on VV-ECMO and alterations to traditional management strategies. (2) Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of our institutional strategies for managing patients with COVID-19 who required VV-ECMO in a dedicated airlock biocontainment unit (BCU), from March to June 2020. The data collected included the time course of admission, VV-ECMO run, ventilator length, hospital length of stay, and major events related to bleeding, such as pneumothorax and tracheostomy. The dispensation of sedation agents and trial therapies were obtained from institutional pharmacy tracking. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed. (3) Results: Forty COVID-19 patients on VV-ECMO were managed in the BCU during this period, from which 21 survived to discharge and 19 died. The criteria for ECMO initiation was altered for age, body mass index, and neurologic status/cardiac arrest. All cannulations were performed with a bedside ultrasound-guided percutaneous technique. Ventilator and ECMO management were routed in an ultra-lung protective approach, though varied based on clinical setting and provider experience. There was a high incidence of pneumothorax (n = 19). Thirty patients had bedside percutaneous tracheostomy, with more procedural-related bleeding complications than expected. A higher use of sedation was noted. The timing of decannulation was also altered, given the system constraints. A variety of trial therapies were utilized, and their effectiveness is yet to be determined. (4) Conclusions: Even in a high-volume ECMO center, there are challenges in caring for an expanded capacity of patients during a viral respiratory pandemic. Though institutional resources and expertise may vary, it is paramount to proceed with insightful planning, the recognition of challenges, and the dynamic application of lessons learned when facing a surge of critically ill patients.
Multiphysics Modelling of Ultrasonic Melt Treatment in the Hot-Top and Launder during Direct-Chill Casting: Path to Indirect Microstructure Simulation
Authors: Beckwith Christopher , Djambazov Georgi , Pericleous Koulis , Subroto Tungky , Eskin Dmitry G. , Roberts Dan , Skalicky Ivan , Tzanakis Iakovos
Published: April 2021

This study concerns the numerical simulation of two competing ultrasonic treatment (UST) strategies for microstructure refinement in the direct-chill (DC) casting of aluminium alloys. In the first, more conventional, case, the sonotrode vibrating at 17.3 kHz is immersed in the hop-top to treat the sump melt pool, in the second case, the sonotrode is inserted between baffles in the launder. It is known that microstructure refinement depends on the intensity of acoustic cavitation and the residence time of the treated fluid in the cavitation zone. The geometry, acoustic field intensity, induced flow velocities, and local temperature are factors which affect this treatment. The mathematical model developed in this work couples flow velocity, acoustics modified by cavitation, heat transfer, and solidification at the macroscale, with Lagrangian refiner particles, used to determine: (a) their residence time in the active zones, and (b) their eventual distribution in the sump as a function of the velocity field. This is the first attempt at using particle models as an efficient, though indirect, alternative to microstructure simulation, and the results indicate that UST in the launder, assisted with baffle separators, yields a more uniform distribution of refining particles, avoiding the strong acoustic streaming jet that, otherwise, accompanies hot-top treatment, and may lead to the strong segregation of refining particles. Experiments conducted in parallel to the numerical studies in this work appeared to support the results obtained in the simulation.
Effect of Platform Temperature and Post-Processing Heat Treatment on the Fatigue Life of Additively Manufactured AlSi7Mg Alloy
Authors: Leitao Martins Luiz Felipe , Provencher Paul R. , Brochu Mathieu , Brochu Myriam
Published: April 2021

The effect of platform temperature combined with a T5 heat treatment on the fatigue life of additively manufactured aluminum alloy AlSi7Mg was characterized and understood. High-cycle fatigue tests were carried out on samples built with four platform temperatures (35 °C, 60 °C, 80 °C and 200 °C) and post-processing heat treatment strategies (F and T5). Microstructural and fractographic observations combined with microhardness measurements were performed. A log-normal statistical distribution regressed with 90% B-basis probabilities of survival revealed that specimens produced on a platform maintained at 80 °C and post-processed with a T5 heat treatment presented the highest fatigue life among the conditions tested. Precipitation of silicon within the aluminum cells during the T5 heat treatment is the proposed explanation for the improved fatigue life of the T5 samples. In the as-built condition, specimens produced at 200 °C were found to be less resistant to fatigue than the specimens built at lower temperatures. The coarser microstructure and lowest microhardness resulting from high-temperature manufacturing explain this reduced fatigue strength. All fatigue cracks initiated from manufacturing discontinuities. This led to a fatigue life prediction model based upon linear elastic fracture mechanics. The model was fitted to the experimental results of the F and T5 samples separately. With the exception of the 35 °C—T5 specimens, the predicted fatigue lives agree with the experimental results and literature.
Effect of Cooling Rate on Hardness and Phase Transformation of a Pd-Ag-Based Metal–Ceramic Alloy with or without Ice-Quenching
Authors: Shin Hye-Jeong , Kwon Yong-Hoon , Seol Hyo-Joung
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cooling rate on the hardness and phase transformation of a Pd-Ag-based metal–ceramic alloy with or without ice-quenching. A total of 28 test specimens, in an as-cast state, were fabricated. A multiple firing simulation was performed on the randomly selected specimens (n = 3/group) in a porcelain furnace; each firing was followed by cooling at the relatively low or high cooling rate. In addition, ice-quenching after oxidation was introduced before the normal firing process (n = 3/group). Microhardness, microstructure, phase transformation and elemental distribution were observed. Oxidation followed by ice-quenching allowed the alloy to be in a homogenized state. On the other hand, the oxidation-treated specimens followed by cooling at relatively high or low cooling speeds showed much higher hardness than the ice-quenched specimen after oxidation, which was resulted from the formation of the metastable precipitates based on the InPd3 phase with tetragonal structure. The hardness of ice-quenched alloy after oxidation was recovered in the very next firing step at both the relatively high and low cooling rates. In all specimens, the Pd-rich matrix and the InPd3-based precipitates were observed. The hardness of a Pd-Ag-based metal–ceramic alloy with and without ice-quenching depended on the cooling rate during the firing process.
Effect of Aloysia citrodora Essential Oil on Biochemicals, Antioxidant Characteristics, and Shelf Life of Strawberry Fruit during Storage
Authors: Shirzad Habib , Alirezalu Abolfazl , Alirezalu Kazem , Yaghoubi Milad , Ghorbani Bahareh , Pateiro Mirian , Lorenzo José M.
Published: April 2021

Strawberry fruits are highly susceptible to cold burning, resulting in low storage periods at low temperatures. Plant extracts or essential oils (EOs) can potentially be used as preservatives in fruits throughout the refrigerated period. In the present study, the biochemicals, antioxidant characteristics, and shelf life of treated strawberries with Aloysia citrodora essential oil (ACEOs) were evaluated during keeping time. The treatments were produced as follows: T1, control; T2, 250 ppm ACEOs; T3, 500 ppm ACEOs; and T4, 750 ppm ACEOs. Total soluble solids (TSS), weight loss, titratable acidity (TA), antioxidant activity (DPPH assay), total phenolic (TPC), flavonoid and anthocyanin contents (TFC), and enzymes activity (peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase) were evaluated during the refrigerated period (5 °C with relative humidity of 85–90% for 20 days). The results revealed that weight loss and TA were reduced in all treatments during storage, being that the rates were lower in samples treated with ACEOs. TPC, TFC, TSS, antioxidant, and enzymes activity were higher in treated fruits than control.
Editorial for Special Issue “Minerals and Elements from Fly Ash and Bottom Ash as a Source of Secondary Raw Materials”
Authors: Guedes Alexandra , Valentim Bruno
Published: April 2021

The sustainability of primary resources depends on recycling, resource efficiency and the search for alternative materials [...]
Standardization of the [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 Radiolabeling Protocol in an Automatic Synthesis Module: Assessments for PET Imaging of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Fuscaldi Leonardo L. , Sobral Danielle V. , Durante Ana Claudia R. , Mendonça Fernanda F. , Miranda Ana Cláudia C. , da Cunha Marcelo L. , Malavolta Luciana , Mejia Jorge , de Barboza Marycel F.
Published: April 2021

Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is a glycoprotein present in the prostate, that is overexpressed in prostate cancer (PCa). Recently, PSMA-directed radiopharmaceuticals have been developed, allowing the pinpointing of tumors with the Positron Emission Tomography (PET) or Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) imaging techniques. The aim of the present work was to standardize and validate an automatic synthesis module-based radiolabeling protocol for [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11, as well as to produce a radiopharmaceutical for PET imaging of PCa malignancies. [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 was evaluated to determine the radiochemical purity (RCP), stability in saline solution and serum, lipophilicity, affinity to serum proteins, binding and internalization to lymph node carcinoma of the prostate (LNCaP) cells, and ex vivo biodistribution in mice. The radiopharmaceutical was produced with an RCP of 99.06 ± 0.10%, which was assessed with reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). The product was stable in saline solution for up to 4 h (RCP > 98%) and in serum for up to 1 h (RCP > 95%). The lipophilicity was determined as −3.80 ± 0.15, while the serum protein binding (SPB) was <17%. The percentages of binding to LNCaP cells were 4.07 ± 0.51% (30 min) and 4.56 ± 0.46% (60 min), while 19.22 ± 2.73% (30 min) and 16.85 ± 1.34% (60 min) of bound material was internalized. High accumulation of [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 was observed in the kidneys, spleen, and tumor, with a tumor-to-contralateral-muscle ratio of >8.5 and a tumor-to-blood ratio of >3.5. In conclusion, an automatic synthesis module-based radiolabeling protocol for [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 was standardized and the product was evaluated, thus verifying its characteristics for PET imaging of PCa tumors in a clinical environment.
Effects of the Off-Label Drug Prescription in the Paediatric Population in Spain from the Adoption of the Latest European Regulation: A Pre-Post Study
Authors: Lizano-Díez Irene , Aldalur-Uranga Itziar , Figueiredo-Escribá Carlos , Lastra Cecilia F. , Mariño Eduardo L. , Modamio Pilar
Published: April 2021

The year 2021 marks the 15th anniversary of the Paediatric Regulation (1901/2006/EC) in Europe. The main aim of the study was to conduct a pre-post comparison on the annual off-label prescription rates in the under-18 population in Spain and assess the potential influence of the Paediatric Regulation adoption. An observational study in the paediatric population was performed. Four cross-sectional annual periods, one before and the three latest periods after the adoption of the Regulation, were compared. Prescriptions in the primary health care setting were sorted by age group and drug and off-label status were determined. The number of off-label prescriptions issued by paediatricians was over two million per year. Prior to the adoption of the Paediatric Regulation, the off-label prescription rate was estimated at 7% of total prescriptions. Although the increase in the off-label rate over the study periods was mild, it was statistically significant (OR: 1.045; 95% CI: 1.043–1.046; p < 0.05). One of the most vulnerable population groups was neonates and infants up to 1 year, in which the off-label prescription rates showed the highest increase during the post follow-up period, which was statistically significant (OR: 4.270; 95% CI: 4.253–4.287; p < 0.05). The findings can help raise awareness and advocate for the development and authorization of medicines for children in the primary health care setting.
Homo Digitus: Its Dependable and Resilient Smart Ecosystem
Authors: Bliss Donald , Garbos Raymond , Kane Patrick , Kharchenko Vyacheslav , Kochanski Thaddeus , Rucinski Andrzej
Published: April 2021

This paper evaluates the status quo of modern society and identifies the neglect of humanism as the root cause of many of today’s global challenges. Note that “smart cities” are not excluded from this indictment. The “Ptolemaic Universe” offers a means to restore our symbiosis with the environment. The ReSeT model is proposed as a tool to analyze the Ptolemaic Universe. Using ReSeT: Homo Sapiens becomes dependent on AI resulting in Homo Digitalis, with further evolution in concert with AI resulting in Homo Digitus. All of these stages are then analyzed in the context of global trusted dependability (GTD). The wellness domain, provides the design specification framework for Homo Digitus’ human-centered and resilient “smart city” ecosystem. This ultimately leads to a better world of increased wellness for Homo Hominus, with better smart cities emphasizing education and science, promoting wisdom and common sense, and rejecting violence. In summary, humanity has generated diverse social structures with erratic outcomes. On the other hand, technology provides a successful foundation for modern society especially in the Pandemic Era. However, technology’s contributions are generally not publicly acknowledged. The paper concludes with several initiatives designed to establish a trusted and resilient society.
Orienteering from Cradle to Grave—How a Sport Could Offer Lifelong Participation
Authors: Bergström Max , Jong Mats , Sæther Stig Arve
Published: April 2021

Background: The aim of this present study is to explore what makes orienteering meaningful and rewarding to former elite athletes’ years or even decades after ending their elite careers. Methods: Applying a qualitative approach with a case study design, data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 11 former elite orienteers from Norway and Sweden, and the data was subsequently analyzed with thematic analysis, resulting in two main themes: individually matched challenges and a social community. Results: The character, structure, and culture of orienteering both enabled and encouraged former elite athletes to make the transition into recreational sport. Even so, the characteristics of the sport related to both its structure (range of ages, level, and ambition) and organization (well-organized) as well as the participants’ backgrounds (well-educated) and intrinsic motivation (satisfaction, enjoyment, mastery) seemed to match a lifelong sport participation. Conclusions: These factors could indicate that orienteering is a sport that can facilitate a lifelong sport participation for athletes with such a background.
The Interconnection between Decent Workplace and Firm Financial Performance through the Mediation of Environmental Sustainability: Lessons from an Emerging Economy
Authors: Zahid Muhammad , Martins José Moleiro , Rahman Haseeb Ur , Mata Mário Nuno , Shah Syed Asim , Mata Pedro Neves
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to investigate the impact of some important Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as the decent workplace, climate change, and economic sustainability on firm financial performance (see Goals 8 and 13). By adopting an index from the previous literature, this study collected data from the annual and sustainability reports of the publicly listed companies of a developing country through content analysis from 2016 to 2018. The results revealed a significant increase in the level of compliance with workplace and environmental sustainability during the corresponding period. Furthermore, the estimations of ordinary least squares (OLS) and two-stage least squares (2SLS) panel data also unveiled a positive impact of workplace sustainability on the firm’s environmental and financial performance. Additionally, we noted that the findings were pronounced after addressing the problem of endogeneity. Moreover, the study also found a novel significant and positive mediating role of environmental sustainability in the relationship between workplace sustainability and the firm’s financial performance. This study has theoretical significance by proposing sustainability training and development as instrumental variables in the relationship of the workplace and environmental sustainability to firm financial performance. This study offers practical implications for regulatory bodies and business firms to integrate workplace and environmental sustainability practices into their routine operations for achieving sustainable industrialization.
Self-Efficacy, Positive Future Outlook and School Burnout in Spanish Adolescents
Authors: Martos Martínez África , Molero Jurado María del Mar , Pérez-Fuentes María del Carmen , Barragán Martín Ana Belén , Simón Márquez María del Mar , Tortosa Martínez Begoña María , Sisto Maria , Gázquez Linares José Jesús
Published: April 2021

Background: Environmental and personal circumstances during adolescence cause changes affecting students, their wellbeing, performance, self-efficacy, motivation, and aspirations for the future. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between burnout, self-efficacy, and outlooks by student gender and age, and determine the influence of self-efficacy on burnout and outlooks for the future. Methods: The sample was made up of 1287 high school students. The instruments used to collect data were The Control—Individual Protective Factors Index to evaluate self-efficacy, the Positive Outlook—Individual Protective Factors Index for aspirations, and finally, for burnout, the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Results: The results showed that the cynicism and exhaustion dimensions of burnout correlated negatively with self-efficacy and outlooks. On the contrary, the academic efficacy dimension showed a positive correlation with self-efficacy. In addition, the gender and age variables were related to burnout. Student self-efficacy was related to burnout and outlooks for the future, where youths with the highest levels of self-efficacy were those who had the most positive outlooks for the future and the least school burnout. Conclusions: Given the academic changes that impede commitment, self-efficacy, and outlooks for the future of youths, the design of intervention programs directed at improving adolescent self-efficacy would lower burnout levels and raise their outlooks.
Modeling Surface Water Quality Using the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System Aided by Input Optimization
Authors: Shah Muhammad Izhar , Abunama Taher , Javed Muhammad Faisal , Bux Faizal , Aldrees Ali , Tariq Muhammad Atiq Ur Rehman , Mosavi Amir
Published: April 2021

Modeling surface water quality using soft computing techniques is essential for the effective management of scarce water resources and environmental protection. The development of accurate predictive models with significant input parameters and inconsistent datasets is still a challenge. Therefore, further research is needed to improve the performance of the predictive models. This study presents a methodology for dataset pre-processing and input optimization for reducing the modeling complexity. The objective of this study was achieved by employing a two-sided detection approach for outlier removal and an exhaustive search method for selecting essential modeling inputs. Thereafter, the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) was applied for modeling electrical conductivity (EC) and total dissolved solids (TDS) in the upper Indus River. A larger dataset of a 30-year historical period, measured monthly, was utilized in the modeling process. The prediction capacity of the developed models was estimated by statistical assessment indicators. Moreover, the 10-fold cross-validation method was carried out to address the modeling overfitting issue. The results of the input optimization indicate that Ca2+, Na+, and Cl− are the most relevant inputs to be used for EC. Meanwhile, Mg2+, HCO3−, and SO42− were selected to model TDS levels. The optimum ANFIS models for the EC and TDS data showed R values of 0.91 and 0.92, and the root mean squared error (RMSE) results of 30.6 µS/cm and 16.7 ppm, respectively. The optimum ANFIS structure comprises a hybrid training algorithm with 27 fuzzy rules of triangular fuzzy membership functions for EC and a Gaussian curve for TDS modeling, respectively. Evidently, the outcome of the present study reveals that the ANFIS modeling, aided with data pre-processing and input optimization, is a suitable technique for simulating the quality of surface water. It could be an effective approach in minimizing modeling complexity and elaborating proper management and mitigation measures.
The Impact of Cross-Border R&D Sourcing on the Innovation Quality of MNCs, from the Perspective of Business Model Innovation
Authors: Duan Yunlong , Liu Hanxiao , Deng Zhiqing , Tao Peng
Published: April 2021

In the literature on business model innovation (BMI) in multinational corporations (MNCs), the influence of cross-border R&D (Research and development) sourcing on innovation performance has been widely discussed; however, from a BMI perspective, apart from innovation performance, the innovation quality is also important. In addition, absorptive capacity and institutional distance are important indicators of MNCs’ innovation quality, although there have been few studies of the moderating effects on the relationship between R&D sourcing and innovation quality. Based on this research gap, starting from the perspective of BMI and by constructing a research framework that includes R&D intensity, R&D diversity, and innovation quality, this paper takes China’s high-tech MNCs as the research object to obtain a sustainable innovative business model. Further, absorptive capacity and institutional distance serve as moderating variables to study the moderating role of the relationship between R&D sourcing and the innovation quality of MNCs. This paper presents the following research findings. During the process of cross-border BMI, R&D intensity has a significant, inverted U-shaped relationship with innovation quality; R&D diversity has a significant negative linear relationship with innovation quality; and absorptive capacity and institutional distance each have a moderating effect on the above relationships.
Taxation for a Circular Economy: New Instruments, Reforms, and Architectural Changes in the Fiscal System
Authors: Vence Xavier , López Pérez Sugey de Jesus
Published: April 2021

This article addresses fiscal policy as a key instrument for promoting the transition to a circular economy. It is based on the hypotheses that (1) the current tax system penalizes circular activities, which are generally labour intensive, as opposed to new product manufacturing activities, which are generally intensive in materials and energy, highly automated and robotized, and (2) that the environmental taxation implemented in recent decades is unable to introduce significant changes to stop climate change or keep the economy within planetary ecological limits. This article examines the basis of an alternative tax system and tax instruments for correcting the current linear economy bias and driving the transition to a circular economy. Proposals are developed for both structural and partial reforms of the fiscal system, focusing on tax measures that can be implemented in the medium or short term to boost a circular economy. More specifically, we suggest a complete redesign of the currently opaque and significant amount of tax expenditure to transform environmentally harmful tax benefits into environmentally friendly tax measures that are suitable for the circular economy.
Diversity Bears Fruit: Evaluating the Economic Potential of Undervalued Fruits for an Agroecological Restoration Approach in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Lagneaux Elisabeth , Jansen Merel , Quaedvlieg Julia , Zuidema Pieter A. , Anten Niels P. R. , García Roca Mishari Rolando , Corvera-Gomringer Ronald , Kettle Chris J.
Published: April 2021

Agroforestry systems with a range of native and often neglected and underutilized tree species (NUS) are increasingly recognized for their potential role in restoration, simultaneously providing ecological and livelihood benefits. Successful adoption of these systems requires knowledge about beneficial species, system-level potential profitability, and barriers faced by farmers. Such information is essential but lacking for most NUS. We analyzed the economic potential of NUS in diverse smallholder-managed agroforestry systems in the Peruvian Amazon. Through semi-structured surveys with local stakeholders (n = 40), we identified 10 native Amazonian NUS fruit with ecological, nutritious and commercial benefits. We then simulated the potential revenue per species and system-level profit of an agroforestry system designed with the 10 NUS. Our projections suggest that a diverse NUS-based agroforestry system can outcompete most alternative land-uses in the region on a per hectare profit basis. This shows that including NUS in restoration efforts could provide economic benefits for smallholders. To realize this potential, we recommend adapted interventions, e.g., increased farmer access to planting material, technical support for production and capacity building with a focus on high-potential NUS.
Propensity to Choose Electric Vehicles in Cross-Border Alpine Regions
Authors: Tomasi Silvia , Zubaryeva Alyona , Pizzirani Cesare , Dal Col Margherita , Balest Jessica
Published: April 2021

Electric vehicles (EVs) are low-carbon innovations that decrease emissions in transportation. Understanding what drives individual propensity to choose EVs supports policymakers in shaping effective low-carbon mobility policies. Within the MOBSTER Interreg project, data were collected using a survey administered to residents in three Alpine cross-border regions—Canton Ticino (Switzerland), South Tyrol (Italy), and Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (Italy)—and were analyzed with a logistic regression. This study reports on the relevant drivers of EV uptake, showing (i) that some sociodemographic attributes positively impact the propensity to choose an EV (e.g., young age and teenage children), (ii) that the presence and visibility of charging infrastructures are important, and (iii) that the role of tourism is not a driver of EV uptake. This study confirms that policies should consider sociodemographics, social practices, and physical infrastructures as playing roles in EV uptake. Future research should address the issue of access to low-carbon innovations for all.
An Exploratory Study on Optimal Iterative Design Schedules with the Consideration of Design Quality and Resource Constraints
Authors: Leu Sou-Sen , Suparman Theresia Daisy Nattali , Hung Cathy Chang-Wei
Published: April 2021

The classical dependency structure matrix (DSM) can effectively deal with iterative schedules that are highly coupled and interdependent, such as the design process and the concurrent process. Classical DSM generally follows the assumption that the least iteration occurs to achieve the shortest completion time. Nevertheless, the assumption may not hold because tasks ought to be re-visited several times if the design qualities do not meet the requirements. This research proposed a novel iterative scheduling model that combines the classical DSM concept with quality equations. The quality equations were used to determine the number of tasks that ought to be re-visited for fulfilling quality requirements during the iterative design process. Moreover, resources for concurrent activities are generally limited in the real world. Resource allocation should be incorporated in scheduling to avoid the waste and shortage of resources on a design project. This research proposed a new iterative scheduling model based on the classical DSM to optimize the iterative activities’ structure in terms of minimizing completion time with the consideration of design quality under resource constraints. A practical design schedule was introduced to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed DSM algorithm.
Effect of Temperature on Internal Shear Strength Mechanism of Needle-Punched GCL
Authors: Yang Yang , Shi Jianyong , Qian Xuede
Published: April 2021

Needle-punched geosynthetic clay liner (NPGCL) has been widely used in landfills. The internal strength of the GCL changes with temperature variation, which affects its application in landfills. A large-scale temperature-controlled direct shear apparatus was developed to study the internal shear strength characteristics of GCL affected by temperature. The internal strength of the GCL was dependent on the bentonite, the fibers, and the interaction between the fibers and the bentonite. The influence of temperature on the internal strength of the GCL was mainly reflected in the displacement at peak strength. However, the peak strength was basically unchanged. The strength of the bentonite and the fibers-reinforced bentonite increased when the temperature increased. The tensile strength of needle-punched fibers decreased with increasing temperature. The peak strength displacement of the fibers-reinforced bentonite decreased with increasing temperature.
Continuance Intention of University Students and Online Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Modified Expectation Confirmation Model Perspective
Authors: Wang Ting , Lin Chien-Liang , Su Yu-Sheng
Published: April 2021

The prevalence of COVID-19 has changed traditional teaching modes. For many teachers, online learning effectively compensated for the absence of traditional face-to-face instruction. Online learning can support students and schools and can create unique opportunities under emergency management. Educational institutions in various countries have launched large-scale online course modes in response to the pandemic. Additionally, online learning during a pandemic differs from traditional online learning modes. Through surveying students in higher education institutions, educational reform under emergency management can be explored. Therefore, university students were surveyed to investigate their continuance intention regarding online learning during the pandemic. Expectation confirmation theory was extended using the task-technology fit model to ascertain whether the technical support of promoting online learning helped student’s complete course learning tasks during the pandemic and spawned a continuance intention to use online learning in the future. Data were collected through online questionnaires. A total of 854 valid responses were collected, and partial least squares structural equation modeling was employed to verify the research hypotheses. The results revealed that the overall research framework largely explained continuance intention. Concrete suggestions are proposed for higher education institutions to promote online learning modes and methods after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dynamic Electricity Intensity Trends in 91 Countries
Authors: Kim Hann-Earl , Chang Yu-Sang , Kim Hee-Jin
Published: April 2021

Despite numerous studies on energy productivity and efficiency, only a few focus on the electricity intensity (EI) of economic output. As these studies largely examine the declining trend in EI, the increasing and/or fluctuating trends in EI have not been studied. We analyze EI trends by estimating the progress ratios from experience curves of 91 countries from 1991 to 2011. The results reveal wide variation in progress ratios, ranging from 53% to 135%, with an average of 101.5%. Furthermore, more than half of the 91 countries displayed a kinked slope, indicating the fluctuating rate of change in EI. The rate of population growth seems to be related to the increasing EI trends. A clear understanding of the relative performance of each country in terms of the progress ratio and the pattern of EI trends would be useful for the country’s policymakers to develop strategic options for the future.
Start-up Strategies for Anaerobic Ammonia Oxidation (Anammox) in In-Situ Nitrogen Removal from Polluted Groundwater in Rare Earth Mining Areas
Authors: Huang Shuanglei , Wu Daishe
Published: April 2021

The tremendous input of ammonium and rare earth element (REE) ions released by the enormous consumption of (NH4)2SO4 in in situ leaching for ion-adsorption RE mining caused serious ground and surface water contamination. Anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) was a sustainable in situ technology that can reduce this nitrogen pollution. In this research, in situ, semi in situ, and ex situ method of inoculation that included low-concentration (0.02 mg·L−1) and high-concentration (0.10 mg·L−1) lanthanum (La)(III) were adopted to explore effective start-up strategies for starting up anammox reactors seeded with activated sludge and anammox sludge. The reactors were refrigerated for 30 days at 4 °C to investigate the effects of La(III) during a period of low-temperature. The results showed that the in situ and semi in situ enrichment strategies with the addition of La(III) at a low-concentration La(III) addition (0.02 mg·L−1) reduced the length of time required to reactivate the sludge until it reached a state of stable anammox activity and high nitrogen removal efficiency by 60–71 days. The addition of La(III) promoted the formation of sludge floc with a compact structure that enabled it to resist the adverse effects of low temperature and so to maintain a high abundance of AnAOB and microbacterial community diversity of sludge during refrigeration period. The addition of La(III) at a high concentration caused the cellular percentage of AnAOB to decrease from 54.60 ± 6.19% to 17.35 ± 6.69% during the enrichment and reduced nitrogen removal efficiency to an unrecoverable level to post-refrigeration.
Enhancing Coffee Supply Chain towards Sustainable Growth with Big Data and Modern Agricultural Technologies
Authors: Kittichotsatsawat Yotsaphat , Jangkrajarng Varattaya , Tippayawong Korrakot Yaibuathet
Published: April 2021

Modern agricultural technology management is nowadays crucial in terms of the economy and the global market, while food safety, quality control, and environmentally friendly practices should not be neglected. This review aims to give perspectives on applying big data analytic and modern technologies to increase the efficacy and effectiveness of the coffee supply chain throughout the process. It was revealed that several tools such as wireless sensor networks, cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), image processing, convolutional neural networks (CNN), and remote sensing could be implemented in and used to improve the coffee supply chain. Those tools could help in reducing cost as well as time for entrepreneurs and create a reliable service for the customer. It can be summarized that in the long term, these modern technologies will be able to assist coffee business management and ensure the sustainable growth for the coffee industry.