bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Speed Rail in the US—Mode Choice Decision and Impact of COVID-19
Authors: Pan Jing Yu
Published: May 2024

While high-speed rail (HSR) has achieved success in major cities in Europe and Asia, it is a new phenomenon in the US, and few studies on HSR in the US are available, especially from the users’ perspective. This study aims to fill the research gap by investigating the mode choice behavior in the Los Angeles and San Francisco corridor where HSR may soon become a feasible option. The impact of COVID-19 was also examined with regard to how people view modes of domestic travel and how their view may change. The geographic locations of travelers and the possible HSR characteristics in the US were also explored. Survey data of US travelers was collected on MTurk, which was analyzed using logistics regression and Two-Way MANOVA. The results indicated that convenience in transport, travel frequency, gender, mobility issues, income, and total travel time were determinants in the choice between HSR and air service, while travel frequency and total travel time were important in the choice between HSR and car transport. Most US travelers changed their views following COVID-19 in terms of domestic travel and exhibited a higher intention to travel by train and HSR. Geographic patterns were identified, such as people in the southern US were the most knowledgeable of HSR and had the greatest intention to use HSR, while people in the northeast exhibited the lowest intention. The findings indicate potential interest in HSR among US travelers, and offer much-needed empirical evidence for the potential success of HSR in the US.
Applying the Hypothetical Extraction Method to Investigate Intersectoral Carbon Emission Linkages of China’s Transportation Sector
Authors: He He , Gao Yunhuan , Wang Xiaolei
Published: May 2024

The transportation sector is an indispensable link in the industrial chain of an economic system. Considering the current push to comprehensively construct new patterns of development, the transportation sector is under huge pressure to achieve the goal of “carbon peak and carbon neutral”. Therefore, to develop low-carbon transportation in China, it is important to study the carbon emission linkages in its transportation sector in order to understand its potential and the factors affecting carbon mitigation. In this study, sectoral carbon emission linkages and dynamic changes during the period of 2002–2020 for the transportation sector in China were quantitatively investigated based on the input–output analysis and hypothetical extraction method (HEM). The results showed that the total carbon emission linkages for the transportation sector mainly experienced growth, increasing by 848.63 Mt from 2002 to 2020, with consistently stronger supply-side than demand-side carbon emission linkages. This indicates that the potential of the transportation sector for carbon reduction lies upstream in the chain of carbon emission linkages. Furthermore, the transportation sector was consistently a net export sector of carbon emissions, and net carbon transfer decreased with fluctuations. Regarding carbon emissions from the transportation sector, the construction sector was found to be main destination for the majority of these emissions, while the power supply sector was the largest source. The policy implications derived from this research can serve as a crucial lever for the low-carbon development of China’s transportation sector.
Optimization of Dissolved Silica Removal from Reverse Osmosis Concentrate by Gedaniella flavovirens for Enhanced Water Recovery
Authors: Gao Han , Sato Shinya , Kodamatani Hitoshi , Fujioka Takahiro , Ishida Kenneth P. , Ikehata Keisuke
Published: May 2024

Photobiological treatment of reverse osmosis concentrate (ROC) using brackish diatoms is a green and sustainable technology that can enhance water recovery by removing dissolved silica from ROC while producing beneficial biomass. This study aimed to determine the optimum conditions for the photobiological treatment of ROC obtained from a full-scale advanced water purification facility using Gedaniella flavovirens Psetr3. While light color presented minor impacts on the silica uptake rate, the impact of color intensity was significant. The uptake rate improved from 28 ± 1 to 48 ± 7 mg/L/day by increasing photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) from 50 to 310 µmol m−2 s−1. Increasing the PAR further did not improve the performance. The optimum temperature was around 23–30 °C. While the silica uptake was slower at 10 °C, G. flavovirens Psetr3 was unable to survive at 40 °C. Experiments using sunlight as a light source verified the impact of temperature on the silica uptake and the detrimental effect of ultraviolet radiation on this diatom. The sunlight-based treatment effectively removed N-nitrosodimethylamine. The results of this study are being used in subsequent pilot-scale investigations and full-scale technoeconomic analysis and will contribute to the further development of this sustainable water technology.
An Evaluation of the Environmental Impact of Logistics Activities: A Case Study of a Logistics Centre
Authors: Popescu Constantin-Adrian , Ifrim Ana Maria , Silvestru Catalin Ionut , Dobrescu Tiberiu Gabriel , Petcu Catalin
Published: May 2024

Lately, the logistics sector has seen accelerated development, which has led to general economic growth, but, at the same time, it has caused considerable environmental damage due to the excessive consumption and emissions that are currently affecting society at large. Since logistics activities are considered some of the most polluting economic activities, this present article aims to present the advantages of implementing the green logistics concept. To this purpose, the activity of a logistics centre in Romania was analysed, with a focus on the greenhouse gases (GHGs) produced as a consequence of this economic activity, and its carbon footprint was calculated according to the GHG Protocol. Although this global standard is based on an integrated approach to how GHG emissions are calculated, there is limited evidence about its degree of implementation by companies. The results of the analysis revealed that the consumption of energy and fuel by the logistics sector has a significant impact on the environment. This impact is maintained, albeit at a smaller scale, even if the technology is replaced and the equipment used by companies to carry out their activities is increasingly performant.
Nature-Based Solutions for Optimizing the Water–Ecosystem–Food Nexus in Mediterranean Countries
Authors: Vanino Silvia , Baratella Valentina , Pirelli Tiziana , Ferrari Donato , Di Fonzo Antonella , Pucci Fabrizio , Nikolaidis Nikolaos P. , Lilli Maria A. , Doğan Zübeyde Albayram , Topdemir Tuncay , Awabdeh Sami , Al-Hadidi Luna , Bani Hani Nabeel , Panagopoulos Andreas , Pisinaras Vassilios , Chatzi Anna , López Estrella , Papadaskalopoulou Christina , Tassopoulos Dimitris , Chatzitheodorou Efstathia , Pagano Alessandro , Giordano Raffaele , Portoghese Ivan , Henao Esteban , Osann Anna , Fabiani Stefano
Published: May 2024

Nature-based solutions (NBSs), defined as actions that work with and enhance nature, providing environmental, social, and economic benefits, play a pivotal role in accomplishing multiple objectives within the Water–Ecosystem–Food Nexus domain. They contribute to facilitating the transition to more resilient agrifood systems and providing an evidence base for a broader Nexus policy dialogue. This paper describes the stepwise methodology developed in the EU-funded LENSES project to carry out a comprehensive analysis of NBSs in six pilot areas in five Mediterranean countries and presents the results of NBS implementation in four pilot areas, highlighting obstacles and opportunities. The methodology includes the development of an analytical evaluation framework and a comprehensive catalogue of Nexus-related NBSs, whose suitability needs to be assessed at the local level to achieve better use of protected/natural ecosystems, increase the sustainability and multifunctionality of managed ecosystems, and design and manage novel ecosystems. Subsequently, in a collective learning process that supported the operationalisation of the WEF Nexus, NBSs were identified that address specific contextual vulnerabilities, improve water distribution, and enhance food security while preserving ecosystems and supporting adaptation to climate change. The added value of the proposed methodology lies in the multi-stakeholder participatory approach to gain in-depth knowledge of local agri-food systems, including their main WEF-related challenges, and to facilitate overcoming barriers to NBS implementation. Finally, a final survey was conducted among a small group of purposively selected stakeholders to gain some insight into their perceptions of the impact of NBS and to gather some opinions on the main barriers and opportunities.
Combined Toxicity of Polystyrene Nanoplastics and Pyriproxyfen to Daphnia magna
Authors: Jia Hua-Bing , Zhang Yu-Hang , Gao Rong-Yao , Liu Xiao-Jing , Shao Qian-Qian , Hu Ya-Wen , Fu Li-Min , Zhang Jian-Ping
Published: May 2024

In recent years, the adverse effects of nanoplastics (NPs) and pyriproxyfen on aquatic environments have attracted widespread attention. However, research on their combined exposure to aquatic organisms could be more extensive. This work evaluated the acute and chronic toxic effects of polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) and pyriproxyfen on Daphnia magna (D. magna) under their combined exposure conditions. The addition of PS-NPs within 24 h reduced the acute toxicity of pyriproxyfen to D. magna, resulting in an increase in the 24-h EC50 values of pyriproxyfen on D. magna from 0.24 mg/L to 0.35, 0.51, and 1.26 mg/L, respectively when 1, 5, and 10 mg/L of PS-NPs were added. Compared with PS-NPs, pyriproxyfen significantly disturbed the growth and reproduction of D. magna in the chronic toxicity test at 21 days. The adverse effects caused by pyriproxyfen were alleviated when PS-NPs and pyriproxyfen were co-exposed. In addition, it was observed that the addition of pyriproxyfen resulted in less PS-NPs uptake by D. magna using a time-gated imaging technique. These findings provide new insight into the combined toxic effects of NPs and pyriproxyfen on the reproduction and growth of D. magna, and it is important to understand the effects of complex pollutants on aquatic systems. Moreover, it has provided an important scientific basis for environmental protection and sustainable development.
Culturally Informed Technology: Assessing Its Importance in the Transition to Smart Sustainable Cities
Authors: Mutambik Ibrahim
Published: May 2024

Since the idea of the smart city was first introduced, over two decades ago, there has been an increasing focus on sustainability as a core strategic priority. However, as the relevance, importance and even definition of sustainability is a function of cultural context, planners must take account of local and regional cultural factors in the selection and adaption of digital infrastructures, as well as in the management and encouragement of public acceptance. Achieving this is not a sequential process, but a concurrent one, as these factors are interdependent. This raises the question of what factors affect and mediate the technology, choice, and public acceptance of smart sustainable cities. This paper attempts to address this question by proposing a new model which advances our current, and considerable, understanding of Technology Acceptance Modelling—using an analysis based on Structural Equation Modelling. This new model, called the Culturally Informed Technology Acceptance Model, was validated using data from a survey of residents of a variety of Saudi Arabian cities. The proposed model is designed around important factors that can be influenced by cultural context, such as digital literacy, process improvements, cost savings and privacy, and is a useful tool for understanding the role of culture in the public acceptance of smart sustainable technology. This design focus is for a number of reasons, such as helping development bodies ensure that the technologies used align with the socio-cultural context. It will also help in the management of at-scale technology roll out in a way that is resource-efficient. Although the Culturally Informed Technology Acceptance Model has been developed and validated using data from Saudi Arabia, the authors believe that it could be adapted to meet the needs of countries/cities that are looking to implement smart city strategies matched to their own distinct socio-cultural identity.
Aerobic Polishing of Liquid Digestate for Preparation of Hydroponic Fertiliser
Authors: Mathe Lebani Oarabile Joy , Ramsumer Simira , Brink Hendrik Gideon , Nicol Willie
Published: May 2024

Nutrient pollution—mainly nitrogen and phosphorus—caused by organic waste continues to impact the environment. The implementation of a circular economy is integral to alleviating these effects. Liquid digestate, which is a byproduct of anaerobic digestion (a waste-valorising process), is a nutrient-dense organic fertiliser with vast applications in agriculture. Using an aerobic polishing unit, this study developed a viable method for the preparation of a hydroponic fertiliser by investigating the effect of pH on the nutrient recycling capabilities of said system. The heterotrophic bacteria present in the biofilm, identified by 16S gene sequencing, are responsible for 90% of organic carbon (as TOC) removal with minimal ammonium loss. This is ideal for promoting optimal nitrification in hydroponic systems in the absence of organic carbon to ensure plant growth is not affected. Although pH 8 was found to be ideal for batch operation, this pH condition resulted in decreased microbial longevity and, therefore, increased ammonification due to microbial decay. Therefore, continuous operation at pH 7 proved to be a better option owing to the ammonium-rich effluent (>220 mg/L) which was produced, which is on par with the nitrogen concentration of a Hoagland solution. The continuous carbon polishing of liquid digestate provides an efficient way of utilising organic fertilisers in hydroponic systems.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Sustainable Strategies to Bridge the Digital Divide in the Mobility Sector: A Pilot Test in Seoul
Authors: Cho Ahhae , Seo Jihun , Kim Sunghoon , Cho Jungwoo , Kim Youngho
Published: May 2024

The emergence of digital mobility services holds great promise for enhancing efficiency, convenience, and accessibility for passengers. However, these benefits are predominantly accessible to those proficient in utilizing these technologies, which may intensify the disparity in transportation usage. This paper presents plans to alleviate the digital divide in the mobility sector. First, two fundamental approaches were established through a literature review: (1) app usage education and (2) an AI-based Mobility Service App. To substantiate the effectiveness of these approaches, a pilot test was conducted in Seoul. The results of the pilot test showed that the AI-based Mobility Service App was effective for reducing travel time and enhancing the convenience of passage. Accordingly, the Technology Acceptance Model was adopted to derive technology acceptance factors of the AI-based Mobility Service App. Finally, a phased approach with short-term, medium-term, and long-term plans was proposed based on the analysis results to ensure sustainable policies in the mobility sector.
The Economic Feasibility of (Re-)Introducing Tram-Trains in Canada: Okanagan Valley Electric Regional Passenger Rail
Authors: Boray Tye , Hegazi Mohamed , Busche Holger , Lovegrove Gord
Published: May 2024

Population and tourism growth has increased congestion, collisions, climate harming emissions, and transport inequities in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia (B.C.), Canada. Surveys indicate a willingness among residents to switch from cars to public transit featuring better service levels and connections. We conducted an analysis on the economic feasibility of an Okanagan Valley Electric Regional Passenger Rail (OVER PR) powered by zero-emission (ZE) Fuel Cell/Battery Hybrid Rail (Hydrail) technology along a 342-km route between Osoyoos, B.C., at the US Border and Kamloops, B.C., the Canadian VIA rail hub. Hydrail passenger light-rail has operated successfully since 2018 in Germany and was demonstrated in Quebec, Canada, in 2023. Technical analyses have confirmed the feasibility in B.C. on steep Highway (Hwy) 97 grades and mountainous weather, with mode shift forecasts in the range of 30%. OVER PR economic analyses were also favorable, with net present value (NPV) = CAD 40 billion (CDN, base year 2023), benefit–cost ratio (BCR) = 9:1, and Return on Investments (IRR) = 33% over 30 years. Subject to additional stakeholder consultations and final design reviews, these results were tested against risks using Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) and Reference-Class Forecasting (RCF), including worst-case risks such as 70% cost over-runs. OVER PR promises an economic transition to clean energy, sustainable transportation, and more livable communities, benefiting all Valley communities through greater transportation equity.
A Study on the Impact of Hallyu (Korean Wave) on Korea’s Consumer Goods Exports to China: Panel Analysis Using Big Data and Provincial-Level Data
Authors: Jin Furong , Kim Soon-Hong , Choi Yoon-Kyung , Yoo Byong-Kook
Published: May 2024

This study empirically analyzes how the Hallyu (Korean Wave) phenomenon affects Korea’s consumer goods exports to China using Chinese provincial-level panel data covering the period from 2011 to 2020. This paper adopts Baidu Index big data with the keywords “Korean drama”, “Korean movie”, “Korean music”, and “Korean entertainment” as proxy variables for Hallyu. The paper investigates the impact of Hallyu on Korean consumer goods exports by subdividing consumer goods into seven processing steps. In addition to the effect of the composite Hallyu index, the effect of each Hallyu content is also examined. Moreover, this study also investigates the impact of the political issue of the deployment of the THAAD American anti-ballistic missile defense system by dividing the period from 2011 to 2020 into before and after 2016. An export equation that includes income level, the Hallyu index, as well as other variables recognized as factors affecting Korea’s exports in existing studies, is used. Several interesting conclusions have been reached. First, Hallyu in China has a significant impact on Korea’s exports of non-durable consumer goods and processed household food and beverages to China. Second, the political issue of the deployment of THAAD has a negative impact on Korea’s exports of consumer goods to China. Third, among the four types of Hallyu content, dramas, as the most popular content in China, have the greatest influence on Korea’s exports of consumer goods to China.
Unraveling the Sustainability Components of Organizational Value Statements: A Q-Sort Methodology Approach
Authors: Kwok Man Lung Jonathan , Kwong Raymond , Hui Chun , Liu Ken H. K.
Published: May 2024

Many corporations have now revised their value statements to showcase their commitment to sustainable development and green business due to the pressing issues of climate and environmental damage. Despite the importance of value statements that can direct companies to achieve sustainable goals, which kind of values can be perceived as organizational orientations towards sustainability remains unknown. This study explores how the general public views the inclusion of sustainable components in value statements from listed companies in Hong Kong by using Q-sort methodology (n = 30). Analyzing the final sample of 40 value statements extracted from 27 listed companies, we identified three factors related to sustainability, namely, Empowering business process management, Empowering customer-centric excellence, and Empowering sustainable progress. This study provides an additional component to the traditional triple bottom line by suggesting that the internal operation of a company is an emerging idea in understanding corporate sustainability.
The Effects of an Immersive Virtual-Reality-Based 3D Modeling Approach on the Creativity and Problem-Solving Tendency of Elementary School Students
Authors: Chen Shu-Jie , Chen Chuang-Qi , Shan Xiao-Fen
Published: May 2024

Virtual-reality 3D modeling helps primary school students to develop creative thinking and problem-solving skills. Through hands-on practice, students can understand abstract concepts more intuitively, and can realize the combination of theory and practice. However, in conventional virtual 3D modeling teaching, students often lack immersive modeling experience, and the modeling method may not be in line with the cognitive way of thinking of primary school students, which, in turn, causes high cognitive load. Immersive virtual reality (IVR) environments provide students with more immersive and intuitive interactions, which can help promote students’ cognitive, emotional, and social development. Therefore, this study combined IVR with 3D virtual modeling to form an immersive virtual-reality-based 3D modeling approach (IVR-based 3D modeling) and designed a quasi-experiment to compare it with the conventional virtual reality 3D modeling approach (CVR-based 3D modeling) to explore its effectiveness. The results of the study show that the IVR-based 3D modeling approach significantly enhanced elementary school students’ creative thinking, including its sub-dimensions (e.g., challenge, imagination, and curiosity), when compared to the CVR-based 3D modeling approach. The same conclusion was reached for problem-solving skills. IVR-based 3D modeling also reduced students’ cognitive load during the learning process, especially in terms of mental effort. The results of the interviews complement the experimental results, and the learners’ perceptions of the new approach explain the experimental results to some extent.
Integrating Energy and Sustainability into the Educational Curriculum: A Pathway to Achieving SDGs
Authors: Martínez-Borreguero Guadalupe , Maestre-Jiménez Jesús , Mateos-Núñez Milagros , Naranjo-Correa Francisco Luis
Published: May 2024

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of how the concept of energy is addressed in secondary and baccalaureate curricula in Spain, with a focus on alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the promotion of sustainable development. Through a qualitative analysis of recent educational legislation, the research highlights the integration and contextualization of energy in different knowledge domains to promote understanding of current environmental challenges. Using a mixed methodology, the study examines curricular references to energy and categorizes them according to their emphasis on energy sources, consumption, technology, ethical awareness, and sustainability. The findings reveal a significant presence of the topic of energy, highlighting efforts to align educational curricula with the SDGs. Despite the significant focus on energy, the study identifies areas for improvement, including the need for greater interdisciplinary and practical integration that equips students to address energy challenges in innovative and sustainable ways.
Harnessing FinTech for Sustainable Finance in Developing Countries: An Integrated SWOT–Multi-Level Perspective Analysis of Mongolia
Authors: Yang John , Jung Sang-Uk
Published: May 2024

This research paper investigates the potential of FinTech solutions in promoting sustainable finance in Mongolia, an emerging market economy with a burgeoning FinTech landscape. This study explores how Mongolia leverages FinTech innovations to advance sustainable development goals. Utilizing secondary data sourced from Mongolian government agencies, global financial organizations, academic institutions, market research firms, and industry associations, we conducted an integrated SWOT-MLP analysis of Mongolia’s FinTech industry, which includes the FinTech business models, ecosystem, regulatory frameworks, traditional financial institutions, and stakeholders. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the opportunities and challenges facing Mongolia in integrating FinTech into its sustainable finance agenda, and SWOT-based strategies.
Study on Spatialization and Spatial Pattern of Population Based on Multi-Source Data—A Case Study of the Urban Agglomeration on the North Slope of Tianshan Mountain in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhang Yunyi , Wang Hongwei , Luo Kui , Wu Changrui , Li Songhong
Published: May 2024

The urban agglomeration on the north slope of the Tianshan Mountains is a pivotal place in Western China; it is essential for the economic growth of Xinjiang and acts as a critical bridge between China’s interior and the Asia–Europe continent. Due to unique natural conditions, the local population distribution exhibits distinct regional characteristics. This study employs the spatial lag model (SLM) from conventional spatial analysis and the random forest model (RFM) from contemporary machine learning techniques. It integrates traditional geographic data, including land cover data and nighttime light data, with geographical big data, such as POI (points of interest) and OSM (OpenStreetMap), to build a comprehensive indicator database. Subsequently, it simulates the spatial population distribution within the urban agglomeration on the northern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains in 2020. The accuracy of the results is then compared and assessed against the accuracy of other available population raster datasets, and the spatial distribution pattern in 2020 is analyzed. The findings reveal the following: (1) The result of SLM, combined with multi-source data, predicts the population distribution as a relatively uniform and nearly circular structure, with minimal spatial differentiation. (2) The result of RFM, employing multi-source data, better captures the spatial population distribution, resulting in irregular boundaries that are indicative of strong spatial heterogeneity. (3) Both models demonstrate superior accuracy in simulating population distribution. The spatial lag model’s accuracy surpasses that of the GHS and GPW datasets, albeit still trailing behind WorldPop and LandScan. Meanwhile, the random forest model significantly outperforms the four aforementioned population raster datasets. (4) The population spatial pattern in the urban agglomeration on the north slope of the Tianshan Mountains predominantly consists of four distinct circles, illustrating a “one axis, one center, and multiple focal points” distribution characteristic. Combining the random forest model with geographic big data for spatialized population simulation offers robust scientific validity and practicality. It holds potential for broader application within the urban agglomeration on the Tianshan Mountains and across Xinjiang. This study can offer insights for studies on regional population spatial distributions and inform sustainable development strategies for cities and their populations.
Civil Aviation Passenger Traffic Forecasting: Application and Comparative Study of the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average Model and Backpropagation Neural Network
Authors: Gu Weifan , Guo Baohua , Zhang Zhezhe , Lu He
Published: May 2024

With the rapid development of China’s aviation industry, the accurate prediction of civil aviation passenger volume is crucial to the sustainable development of the industry. However, the current prediction of civil aviation passenger traffic has not yet reached the ideal accuracy, so it is particularly important to improve the accuracy of prediction. This paper explores and compares the effectiveness of the backpropagation (BP) neural network model and the SARIMA model in predicting civil aviation passenger traffic. Firstly, this study utilizes data from 2006 to 2019, applies these two models separately to forecast civil aviation passenger traffic in 2019, and combines the two models to forecast the same period. Through comparing the mean relative error (MRE), mean square error (MSE), and root mean square error (RMSE), the prediction accuracies of the two single models and the combined model are evaluated, and the best prediction method is determined. Subsequently, using the data from 2006 to 2019, the optimal method is applied to forecast the civil aviation passenger traffic from 2020 to 2023. Finally, this paper compares the epidemic’s impact on civil aviation passenger traffic with the actual data. This paper improves the prediction accuracy of civil aviation passenger volume, and the research results have practical significance for understanding and evaluating the impact of the epidemic on the aviation industry.
Artificial Intelligence-Driven Multi-Energy Optimization: Promoting Green Transition of Rural Energy Planning and Sustainable Energy Economy
Authors: Peng Xiaoyan , Guan Xin , Zeng Yanzhao , Zhang Jiali
Published: May 2024

This research contributes to the overarching objectives of achieving carbon neutrality and enhancing environmental governance by examining the role of artificial intelligence-enhanced multi-energy optimization in rural energy planning within the broader context of a sustainable energy economy. By proposing an innovative planning framework that accounts for geographical and economic disparities across rural regions, this study specifically targets the optimization of energy systems in X County of Yantai City, Y County of Luoyang City, and Z County of Lanzhou City. Furthermore, it establishes a foundation for integrating these localized approaches into broader national carbon-neutral efforts and assessments of green total factor productivity. The comparative analysis of energy demand, conservation, efficiency, and economic metrics among these counties underscores the potential of tailored solutions to significantly advance low-carbon practices in agriculture, urban development, and industry. Additionally, the insights derived from this study offer a deeper understanding of the dynamics between government and enterprise in environmental governance, empirically supporting the Porter hypothesis, which postulates that stringent environmental policies can foster innovation and competitiveness. The rural coal-coupled biomass power generation model introduced in this work represents the convergence of green economy principles and financial systems, serving as a valuable guide for decision-making in decisions aimed at sustainable consumption and production. Moreover, this research underscores the importance of resilient and adaptable energy systems, proposing a pathway for evaluating emission trading markets and promoting sustainable economic recovery strategies that align with environmental sustainability goals.
Impacts of Low-Carbon City Pilot Policy on Urban Land Green Use Efficiency: Evidence from 283 Cities in China
Authors: Zheng Lingyan , Chen Jiangping
Published: May 2024

On the global scale, the low-carbon city pilot policy (LCCPP) has important significance for and influence on the study of urban land green use efficiency (ULGUE). Based on the panel data of 283 cities in China from 2007 to 2019, this study uses the super-SBM model, multi-period DID model, spatial econometric model, intermediary effect model, and heterogeneity analysis methods to deeply explore the specific impact mechanism of LCCPP on ULGUE. The results show the following: (1) During the study period, the average ULGUE of the selected samples increased by 11.71 percentage points overall and showed a certain spatial agglomeration effect. (2) LCCPP has a significant promoting effect on the improvement of ULGUE, and there is a positive spatial spillover effect. (3) The impact of LCCPP on ULGUE is mainly achieved through two paths: reducing energy utilization intensity and improving urban innovation level. (4) In cities with different levels of land green use efficiency, geographical location, and resource endowment, there are significant differences in policy effects. This paper puts forward countermeasures and suggestions to comprehensively promote the sustainable development of global cities and the improvement of land green use efficiency.
Network Effects in Global Carbon Transfer: New Evidence from a Carbon-Connectedness Network Centered on China
Authors: Huang Xiaowu , Zhao Xin , Jiao Ao , Zheng Jianming
Published: May 2024

There is plenty of evidence to suggest that global carbon emission transfer has evolved into a mutually related system, where a realistic and complex network is formed. To profile the structures and features in the global carbon emission transfer network, a carbon-connectedness network model is adapted and combined with the multiregional input–output analysis framework, on the basis of massive and multi-layer global carbon flow data. This study formulates the topological features, spatio-temporal features, dynamic features and core–periphery features from a brand-new perspective on China. Meanwhile, this study identifies the network effects in the global carbon transfer network, including spillover, spillin and spillback effects. In general, an increase in China’s carbon emission transfer would lead to significant spillover effects on most economies worldwide, especially on developing economies and those with weaker tertiary industry or situated at the upstream of the global value chain. Simultaneously, China itself would also face substantial spillback effects. Spillovers and spillbacks underscore a broader negative impact that exceeds its initial magnitude. Focused on the connectedness network centered on China, this study is complementary to traditional insights, helping to comprehend the connections and relationships of carbon emissions among economies. This understanding is of substantive significance for the formulation of multi-national mitigation strategies and fostering global climate governance cooperation.
Novel, Fast, Strong, and Parallel: A Colored Image Cipher Based on SBTM CPRNG
Authors: Al-Daraiseh Ahmad , Sanjalawe Yousef , Fraihat Salam , Al-E’mari Salam
Published: May 2024

Smartphones, digital cameras, and other imaging devices generate vast amounts of high-resolution colored images daily, stored on devices equipped with multi-core central processing units or on the cloud. Safeguarding these images from potential attackers has become a pressing concern. This paper introduces a set of six innovative image ciphers designed to be stronger, faster, and more efficient. Three of these algorithms incorporate the State-Based Tent Map (SBTM) Chaotic Pseudo Random Number Generator (CPRNG), while the remaining three employ a proposed modified variant, SBTMPi. The Grayscale Image Cipher (GIC), Colored Image Cipher Single-Thread RGB (CIC1), and Colored Image Cipher Three-Thread RGB (CIC3) showcase the application of the proposed algorithms. By incorporating novel techniques in the confusion and diffusion phases, these ciphers demonstrate remarkable performance, particularly with large colored images. The study underscores the potential of SBTM-based image ciphers, contributing to the advancement of secure image encryption techniques with robust random number generation capabilities.
Tomographic Background-Oriented Schlieren for Axisymmetric and Weakly Non-Axisymmetric Supersonic Jets
Authors: Jia Tong , Li Jiawei , Wu Jie , Xiong Yuan
Published: May 2024

The Schlieren technique is widely adopted for visualizing supersonic jets owing to its non-invasiveness to the flow field. However, extending the classical Schlieren method for quantitative refractive index measurements is cumbersome, especially for three-dimensional supersonic flows. Background-oriented Schlieren has gained increasing popularity owing to its ease of implementation and calibration. This study utilizes multi-view-based tomographic background-oriented Schlieren (TBOS) to reconstruct axisymmetric and weakly non-axisymmetric supersonic jets, highlighting the impact of flow axisymmetry breaking on TBOS reconstructions. Several classical TBOS reconstruction algorithms, including FDK, SART, SIRT, and CGLS, are compared quantitatively regarding reconstruction quality. View spareness is identified to be the main cause of degraded reconstruction quality when the flow experiences axisymmetry breaking. The classic visual hull approach is explored to improve reconstruction quality. Together with the CGLS tomographic algorithm, we successfully reconstruct the weakly non-axisymmetric supersonic jet structures and confirm that increasing the nozzle bevel angle leads to wider jet spreads.
Ricci Solitons on Spacelike Hypersurfaces of Generalized Robertson–Walker Spacetimes
Authors: Alshehri Norah , Guediri Mohammed
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we investigate Ricci solitons on spacelike hypersurfaces in a special Lorentzian warped product manifold, the so-called generalized Robertson–Walker (GRW) spacetimes. Such spacetimes admit a natural form of symmetry which is represented by the conformal vector field f∂t, where f is the warping function and ∂t is the unit timelike vector field tangent to the base (which is here a one-dimensional manifold). We use this symmetry to introduce some fundamental formulas related to the Ricci soliton structures and the Ricci curvature of the fiber, the warping function, and the shape operator of the immersion. We investigate different rigidity results for Ricci solitons on the slices, in addition to the totally umbilical spacelike supersurfaces of GRW. Furthermore, our study is focused on significant GRW spacetimes such as Einstein GRW spacetimes and those which obey the well-known null convergence condition (NCC).
BRDF-Based Photometric Modeling of LEO Constellation Satellite from Massive Observations
Authors: Lu Yao
Published: May 2024

Modeling the brightness of satellites in large Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations can not only assist the astronomical community in assessing the impact of reflected light from satellites, optimizing observing schedules and guiding data processing, but also motivate satellite operators to improve their satellite designs, thus facilitating cooperation and consensus among different stakeholders. This work presents a photometric model of the Starlink satellites based on the Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) using millions of photometric observations. To enhance model accuracy and computational efficiency, data filtering and reduction are employed, and chassis blocking on the solar array and the earthshine effect are taken into account. The assumptions of the model are also validated by showing that the satellite attitude is as expected, the solar array is nearly perpendicular to the chassis, and both the solar array pseudo-specular reflection and the chassis earthshine should be included in the model. The reflectance characteristics of the satellites and the apparent magnitude distributions over station are finally discussed based on the photometric predictions from the model. In addition to assessing the light pollution and guiding the development of response measures, accurate photometric models of satellites can also play an important role in areas such as space situational awareness.
COVID-19 Serum Drives Spike-Mediated SARS-CoV-2 Variation
Authors: Yu Yuanling , Zhang Mengyi , Huang Lan , Chen Yanhong , Wu Xi , Li Tao , Li Yanbo , Wang Youchun , Huang Weijin
Published: May 2024

Neutralizing antibodies targeting the spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2, elicited either by natural infection or vaccination, are crucial for protection against the virus. Nonetheless, the emergence of viral escape mutants presents ongoing challenges by contributing to breakthrough infections. To define the evolution trajectory of SARS-CoV-2 within the immune population, we co-incubated replication-competent rVSV/SARS-CoV-2/GFP chimeric viruses with sera from COVID-19 convalescents. Our findings revealed that the E484D mutation contributes to increased viral resistant against both convalescent and vaccinated sera, while the L1265R/H1271Y double mutation enhanced viral infectivity in 293T-hACE2 and Vero cells. These findings suggest that under the selective pressure of polyclonal antibodies, SARS-CoV-2 has the potential to accumulate mutations that facilitate either immune evasion or greater infectivity, facilitating its adaption to neutralizing antibody responses. Although the mutations identified in this study currently exhibit low prevalence in the circulating SARS-CoV-2 populations, the continuous and meticulous surveillance of viral mutations remains crucial. Moreover, there is an urgent necessity to develop next-generation antibody therapeutics and vaccines that target diverse, less mutation-prone antigenic sites to ensure more comprehensive and durable immune protection against SARS-CoV-2.
Reverse Genetics of Murine Rotavirus: A Comparative Analysis of the Wild-Type and Cell-Culture-Adapted Murine Rotavirus VP4 in Replication and Virulence in Neonatal Mice
Authors: Kawagishi Takahiro , Sánchez-Tacuba Liliana , Feng Ningguo , Greenberg Harry B. , Ding Siyuan
Published: May 2024

Small-animal models and reverse genetics systems are powerful tools for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying viral replication, virulence, and interaction with the host immune response in vivo. Rotavirus (RV) causes acute gastroenteritis in many young animals and infants worldwide. Murine RV replicates efficiently in the intestines of inoculated suckling pups, causing diarrhea, and spreads efficiently to uninoculated littermates. Because RVs derived from human and other non-mouse animal species do not replicate efficiently in mice, murine RVs are uniquely useful in probing the viral and host determinants of efficient replication and pathogenesis in a species-matched mouse model. Previously, we established an optimized reverse genetics protocol for RV and successfully generated a murine-like RV rD6/2-2g strain that replicates well in both cultured cell lines and in the intestines of inoculated pups. However, rD6/2-2g possesses three out of eleven gene segments derived from simian RV strains, and these three heterologous segments may attenuate viral pathogenicity in vivo. Here, we rescued the first recombinant RV with all 11 gene segments of murine RV origin. Using this virus as a genetic background, we generated a panel of recombinant murine RVs with either N-terminal VP8* or C-terminal VP5* regions chimerized between a cell-culture-adapted murine ETD strain and a non-tissue-culture-adapted murine EW strain and compared the diarrhea rate and fecal RV shedding in pups. The recombinant viruses with VP5* domains derived from the murine EW strain showed slightly more fecal shedding than those with VP5* domains from the ETD strain. The newly characterized full-genome murine RV will be a useful tool for dissecting virus–host interactions and for studying the mechanism of pathogenesis in neonatal mice.
Integrin-Targeting Strategies for Adenovirus Gene Therapy
Authors: Nemerow Glen R.
Published: May 2024

Numerous human adenovirus (AdV) types are endowed with arginine–glycine–aspartic acid (RGD) sequences that enable them to recognize vitronectin-binding (αv) integrins. These RGD-binding cell receptors mediate AdV entry into host cells, a crucial early step in virus infection. Integrin interactions with adenoviruses not only initiate receptor-mediated endocytosis but also facilitate AdV capsid disassembly, a prerequisite for membrane penetration by AdV protein VI. This review discusses fundamental aspects of AdV–host interactions mediated by integrins. Recent efforts to re-engineer AdV vectors and non-viral nanoparticles to target αv integrins for bioimaging and the eradication of cancer cells will also be discussed.
Universal and Expanded Screening Strategy for Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection: Is Pool Testing by a Rapid Molecular Test in Saliva a New Choice in Developing Countries?
Authors: Izquierdo Giannina , Guerra Carolina , Reyes Roberto , Araya Leslie , Sepulveda Belén , Cabrera Camila , Medina Pamela , Mardones Eledier , Villavicencio Leonel , Montecinos Luisa , Tarque Felipe , Acevedo William , Barraza Marlon , Farfán Mauricio , Mendez Jocelyn , Torres Juan Pablo
Published: May 2024

Background: Several screening strategies for identifying congenital CMV (cCMV) have been proposed; however, the optimal solution has yet to be determined. We aimed to determine the prevalence of cCMV by universal screening with saliva pool testing and to identify the clinical variables associated with a higher risk of cCMV to optimize an expanded screening strategy. Methods: We carried out a prospective universal cCMV screening (September/2022 to August/2023) of 2186 newborns, analyzing saliva samples in pools of five (Alethia-LAMP-CMV®) and then performed confirmatory urine CMV RT-PCR. Infants with risk factors (small for gestational age, failed hearing screening, HIV-exposed, born to immunosuppressed mothers, or <1000 g birth weight) underwent expanded screening. Multivariate analyses were used to assess the association with maternal/neonatal variables. Results: We identified 10 infants with cCMV (prevalence: 0.46%, 95% CI 0.22–0.84), with significantly higher rates (2.1%, 95% CI 0.58–5.3) in the high-risk group (p = 0.04). False positives occurred in 0.09% of cases. No significant differences in maternal/neonatal characteristics were observed, except for a higher prevalence among infants born to non-Chilean mothers (p = 0.034), notably those born to Haitian mothers (1.5%, 95% CI 0.31–4.34), who had higher odds of cCMV (OR 6.82, 95% CI 1.23–37.9, p = 0.04). Incorporating maternal nationality improved predictive accuracy (AUC: 0.65 to 0.83). Conclusions: For low-prevalence diseases such as cCMV, universal screening with pool testing in saliva represents an optimal and cost-effective approach to enhance diagnosis in asymptomatic patients. An expanded screening strategy considering maternal nationality could be beneficial in resource-limited settings.
Improving the Detection and Understanding of Infectious Human Norovirus in Food and Water Matrices: A Review of Methods and Emerging Models
Authors: Chandran Sahaana , Gibson Kristen E.
Published: May 2024

Human norovirus (HuNoV) is a leading global cause of viral gastroenteritis, contributing to numerous outbreaks and illnesses annually. However, conventional cell culture systems cannot support the cultivation of infectious HuNoV, making its detection and study in food and water matrices particularly challenging. Recent advancements in HuNoV research, including the emergence of models such as human intestinal enteroids (HIEs) and zebrafish larvae/embryo, have significantly enhanced our understanding of HuNoV pathogenesis. This review provides an overview of current methods employed for HuNoV detection in food and water, along with their associated limitations. Furthermore, it explores the potential applications of the HIE and zebrafish larvae/embryo models in detecting infectious HuNoV within food and water matrices. Finally, this review also highlights the need for further optimization and exploration of these models and detection methods to improve our understanding of HuNoV and its presence in different matrices, ultimately contributing to improved intervention strategies and public health outcomes.