bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploiting Legal Reserve Compensation as a Mechanism for Unlawful Deforestation in the Brazilian Cerrado Biome, 2012–2022
Authors: Carneiro Bruno Machado , de Carvalho Junior Osmar Abílio , Guimarães Renato Fontes , Evangelista Balbino Antônio , de Carvalho Osmar Luiz Ferreira
Published: November 2024

This research investigates the illegal Vegetation Suppression Authorization (VSA) for Legal Reserve Compensation (LRC) in Tocantins, Brazil, between 2012 and 2014. The VSA is a license issued by state environmental agencies that authorizes the removal or clearing of native vegetation. This infraction resulted from the state environmental agency’s mistaken interpretation of Resolution 07/2005 of the State Environmental Council and the Native Vegetation Protection Law, which operates nationally and takes precedence over state resolutions and laws. The study area focuses on eight municipalities contained in the Formoso, Pium, and Javaés river basins. The methodology examines irregular VSA-LRC cases through geospatial data analysis, multitemporal analysis using remote sensing data, and economic assessments in both the origin and destination areas of the compensatory reserve. The results showed that among the 217 VSA-LRC applications during the period, 93 had corresponding geospatial data, indicating that 57.1% of the geospatial data were missing. This discrepancy between the authorized area and the available geospatial information restricts the oversight capability of the regulatory agency. A decade-long deforestation analysis of VSA-LRCs using remote sensing data considered three phases: 2012–2014 (application and issuance of VSA-LRCs), 2015–2018 (operational issuance), and 2019–2022 (post-expiration of VSA-LRCs). The results revealed a total VSA-LRC area of 343.291 km2 (34,329.10 ha), with 229.1169 km2 (22,911.69 ha) of deforestation. Notably, 54.877 km2 (5487.70 ha) of this deforestation occurred in 2019–2022, after the VSA-LRC had expired. The analysis of the LRC origin and destination areas demonstrates a unidirectional strategy, from economically more valuable areas to less valuable ones, according to land market dynamics. Therefore, this investigation concludes the need for greater administrative transparency, the development of a reliable geospatial data system for monitoring, and policy changes and actions to enhance environmental protection.
The Impact of National Big Data Pilot Zones on the Persistence of Green Innovation: A Moderating Perspective Based on Green Finance
Authors: Liu Ruizhi , Hou Mengwei , Jing Ruifeng , Bauer Alexandra , Wu Mark
Published: November 2024

Enhancing the persistence of corporate green innovation is crucial for promoting sustainable societal development. As big data technologies and related policies advance, digitalization emerges as an effective enabler of green innovation in enterprises. This study, grounded in resource-based theory and corporate ecology theory, examines the impact of national-level big data pilot zone reforms on the persistence of corporate green innovation, utilizing data from China’s A-share-listed companies from 2011 to 2021. It also explores the moderating effect of green finance development. Empirical results indicate that (1) the implementation of national-level big data pilot zones positively influences the persistence of green innovation, with robustness and endogeneity tests confirming these findings. (2) The development of regional green finance positively moderates this relationship. (3) A mediation analysis reveals that national-level big data policies enhance innovation persistence by alleviating financing constraints, promoting talent aggregation, and facilitating industrial upgrading. (4) The heterogeneity analysis shows that the positive impact of these reforms is more pronounced in non-state-owned, non-heavy polluting firms, those receiving high subsidies, and in regions with stringent environmental regulations. This study offers a novel theoretical perspective on and empirical evidence for digital transformation from the angle of national policy, supporting societal green development and contributing to policy enhancement aimed at achieving sustainable growth.
Process Simulation and Technical Evaluation Using Water-Energy-Product (WEP) Analysis of an Extractive-Based Biorefinery of Creole-Antillean Avocado Produced in the Montes De María
Authors: García-Maza Sofía , Herrera-Rodríguez Tamy C. , González-Delgado Ángel Darío
Published: November 2024

The annual increase in the world’s population significantly contributes to recent climate change and variability. Therefore, researchers, engineers, and professionals in all fields must integrate sustainability criteria into their decision-making. These criteria aim to minimize the environmental, social, economic, and energy impacts of human activities and industrial processes, helping mitigate climate change. This research focuses on developing scalable technology for the comprehensive use of avocados, adhering to sustainability principles. This work presents the modeling, simulation, and the WEP (Water-Energy-Product) technical evaluation of the process for obtaining bio-oil, chlorophyll, and biopesticide from the Creole-Antillean avocado. For this, the extractive-based biorefinery data related to water, energy, and products are taken from the material balance based on experimental results and process simulation. Then, eight process parameters are calculated, and eleven technical indicators are determined. Later, the extreme technical limitations for every indicator are demarcated, and an evaluation of the performance of the indicators is carried out. Results showed that the process has a high execution in aspects such as fractional water cost (TCF) and energy cost (TCE), as well as solvent reuse during extraction processes (SRI) and production yield, noting that the mentioned indicators are above 80%. In contrast, the metrics related to water management (FWC) and specific energy (ESI) showed the lowest performance. These discoveries support the use of optimization techniques like mass process integration. The energy-related indicators reveal that the process presents both benefits and drawbacks. One of the drawbacks is the energy source due to the high demand for electrical energy in the process, compared to natural gas. The specific energy intensity indicator (ESI) showed an intermediate performance (74%), indicating that the process consumes high energy. This indicator enables us to highlight that we can find energy aspects that require further study; for this reason, it is suitable to say that there is potential to enhance the energy efficiency of the process by applying energy integration methods.
Correction: Sharma et al. Rhizophagus irregularis and Nitrogen Fixing Azotobacter with a Reduced Rate of Chemical Fertilizer Application Enhances Pepper Growth Along with Fruits Biochemical and Mineral Composition. Sustainability 2022, 14, 5653
Authors: Sharma Meenakshi , Sharma Vandana , Delta Anil , Kaushik Prashant
Published: November 2024

In the publication [...]
A Comparative Analysis of the Environmental Impacts of Wood–Aluminum Window Production in Two Life Cycle Assessment Software
Authors: Sečkár Michal , Schwarz Marián , Pochyba Adam , Polgár András
Published: November 2024

In the construction sector, there is a shift towards environmentally conscious practices that prioritize the minimization of environmental burdens. In this study, we dealt with a cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment (LCA) of a wood–aluminum window in two software tools. SimaPro (PRé Sustainability) and Sphera LCA for Experts (formerly known as GaBi) were selected. The results from both software tools were compared to assess the output uniformity of the two selected tools. The results indicate the similarities and differences in the software tools. The most similar results were achieved for impact categories Photochemical Ozone Formation (1.1% difference), Human Toxicity, cancer (total) (3.6% difference), Climate Change (3.7% difference) and for Resource Use, fossils (4.5% difference), respectively. On the other hand, the results were most different in the impact categories Ozone Depletion (84.7% difference), Resource Use, minerals and metals (75% difference), Ecotoxicity, freshwater—inorganics (35.6%) and Ecotoxicity, freshwater (total) (31.2%), respectively. The differences in the LCA results between SimaPro and GaBi were analyzed in-depth and were mainly attributable to using different databases in the transportation process and due to different system boundaries in some processes, with the Ecoinvent data containing significantly more background processes and inconsistencies in the implemented characterization factors.
Screening of Suitable Mixed Grass Species and Seeding Rates of Four Native Grass Seeds in an Alpine Mining Area
Authors: Liu Qingqing , Lv Liangyu , He Miaohua , Cai Zongcheng , Shi Jianjun
Published: November 2024

The targeting of suitable mixed grass species and seeding rates of native grass seed in the process of ecological restoration in alpine mining areas is unclear. Four kinds of native grass seed (Poa pratensis cv. Qinghai, Poa crymophila cv. Qinghai, Puccinellia tenuiflora cv. Tongde and Pedicularis kansuensis) were selected as experimental materials to set up mixed sowing tests in the Muli mining area, which were analyzed for changes in plant coverage, biomass, forage nutrient composition, and soil physicochemical properties under different mixed grass species and seeding rates, aiming to provide a data reference and theoretical basis for the screening of suitable mixed grass species and seeding rates for artificial grassland planting in alpine mining areas. The results showed that the mixed grass species and seeding rate (HF) of Poa pratensis cv. Qinghai + Poa crymophila cv. Qinghai + Puccinellia tenuiflora cv. Tongde + Pedicularis kansuensis had the highest vegetation coverage (97.33%). At the same time, the aboveground biomass of HF was the largest (356.27 g·m−2). The soil organic matter, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and total potassium of HF increased by 37.05%, 28.11%, 34.68%, and 10.14%, respectively, compared with CK, and the difference was significant (p < 0.05). Principal component analysis was carried out on 23 indexes of vegetation and soil. It was found that nine indexes, including coverage, aboveground biomass, belowground biomass, soluble sugar, and soil organic matter content, were the key indexes of evaluation. By sorting the membership functions of the above indicators, it was found that among the 12 mixed grass species and seeding rates, the comprehensive evaluation value of HF was the highest (0.848). In summary, it is recommended that the mixed grass species and seeding rate of Poa pratensis cv Qinghai + Poa crymophila cv. Qinghai + Puccinellia tenuiflora cv. Tongde + Pedicularis kansuensis be adopted for ecological restoration in alpine mining areas; this mixed grass species and seeding rate can effectively promote plant growth and development and improve the physicochemical properties of the soil, which can improve the stability and sustainability of the artificial grassland in the alpine mining area.
Spatiotemporal Variations and Driving Factors of Ecological Sensitivity in the West Qinling Mountains, China, Under the Optimal Scale
Authors: Zhao Qiqi , Liu Xuelu , Wu Yingying , Liu Hongyan , Qu Fei , Zhang Miaomiao , Li Xiaodan
Published: November 2024

This study selected the five indicators of soil erosion, climate environment, geological hazards, biodiversity, and human disturbances and uses the entropy weight method to calculate the ecological sensitivity of the West Qinling Mountains from 2000 to 2020. The analysis produced a spatiotemporal distribution of ecological sensitivity over the 20-year period. An equal step size of 500 m was used to progressively increase the spatial scale from 500 m to 6 km. The optimal scale for the spatial differentiation of ecological sensitivity in the West Qinling Mountains was determined by analyzing the characteristics of changes at different scales, response mechanisms, and optimal parameters for geographical detector spatial scale identification. Based on this scale, the change in intensity and pattern and the influencing factors of ecological sensitivity were analyzed. The results show the following: (1) The 5.5 km spatial scale balances the requirements of accuracy, spatial heterogeneity, and data adequacy, making it the optimal scale for analyzing the spatiotemporal variation patterns of ecological sensitivity in the West Qinling Mountains. (2) From 2000 to 2020, the mean ecological sensitivity in the West Qinling Mountains exhibited a decreasing trend, indicating an improvement in the ecological environment. Spatially, the ecological sensitivity of the West Qinling Mountains showed a spatial distribution pattern of “low in the west and high in the east, low in the south and high in the north”. During the study period, the ecological sensitivity in the West Qinling region remained generally stable, with no high-frequency changes observed. (3) Population density is the primary driving factor of spatial differentiation of ecological sensitivity in the West Qinling Mountains, while GDP serves as a secondary factor. Overall, socioeconomic factors have the most significant impact on ecological sensitivity. (4) Over 75% of the ecological sensitivity trends exhibit patterns of perennial unchanged and fluctuating unchanged trends, with areas of fluctuating increase smaller than areas of fluctuating decrease. Regions of perennial high sensitivity are primarily concentrated in the northeastern part of the West Qinling Mountains, while areas with increased fluctuation in ecological sensitivity are mainly located in the western and southern parts of the West Qinling Mountains. Future efforts should focus on these regions.
Vulnerability Comparisons of Various Complex Urban Metro Networks Under Multiple Failure Scenarios
Authors: Meng Yangyang
Published: November 2024

Urban metro networks, characterized by their complex systems of interdependent components, are susceptible to a wide range of operational disturbances and threats. Such disruptions can cascade through the system, leading to service delays, operational inefficiencies, and substantial economic losses. Consequently, assessing and understanding network vulnerabilities have become crucial to ensuring resilient metro operations. While many studies focus on single-failure scenarios, comparative vulnerability analyses of various urban metro networks under multiple or simultaneous failures remain limited. To address this gap, our study introduces a comprehensive analytical framework comprising three key components: quantitative indices operating at both network and node levels, methodological approaches to assess the importance of network components (nodes, edges, and lines), and systematic protocols for evaluating vulnerabilities across multiple failure scenarios (stations, tunnels, lines, and areas). A comparative analysis of the Shenzhen Metro Network (SZMN) and the Zhengzhou Metro Network (ZZMN) validates the proposed methods. The results indicate that the SZMN demonstrates higher connectivity and accessibility than the ZZMN, despite a lower network density. Both networks are disassortative and heterogeneous, with edges connecting multiline transfer stations showing significantly higher edge betweenness centrality compared to those connecting general stations. In the SZMN, 6.63% of node failures and 4.74% of tunnel failures exceed a vulnerability threshold of 0.03, compared to 13.74% and 11.27% in the ZZMN. Failures across different lines and areas yield varying impacts on network performance and vulnerability. This study provides essential theoretical and practical insights, helping metro safety managers identify vulnerable points and strengthen the sustainable development of urban metro systems.
The Influence of Digital Influencers on Generation Y’s Adoption of Fintech Banking Services in Brazil
Authors: Cardoso António , Pereira Manuel Sousa , Silva Amândio , Souza André , Oliveira Isabel , Figueiredo Jorge
Published: November 2024

The consumer profile has undergone evolutions and transformations over the years due to the evolution of new generations of individuals, such as Generation Y. Social media has revolutionized the way in which consumers can search and find information about products in general, which has impacted how brands relate to their consumers. In this context, this study tries to understand how digital influencers are being used to influence Generation Y in the consumption of banking services from fintechs in Brazil via social media platforms. The specific objectives include profiling these consumers, identifying the most relevant influencers, and measuring the impact of influencer marketing. The results pointed to Generation Y’s preference for mobile applications and personal recommendations when making decisions to purchase financial products. Fintechs stood out for the agility and autonomy they offered, as well as for being on the forefront in leading practices, innovations, and product offerings that drive sustainability forward. The study concluded that digital influencers play a crucial role in the awareness phase, but additional factors influence Millennial consumption decisions, highlighting the complexity of the decision process.
Sustainable Operations of Online and Offline Restaurants: Focusing on Multi-Brand Restaurants
Authors: Kang Byeongmo , Yoo Seung Ho
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the sustainable operations of a multi-brand restaurant that adopts multiple brands in a store, unlike a typical restaurant that operates only a single brand. We introduce five restaurant operation models, including three traditional single-brand ones (offline, online, and multi-channel) and two recent multi-brand restaurants with a single fixed franchise fee and multiple franchise fees proportional to the number of brands. We then investigate the performance of the models in the changing market and cost environments. Through analytical and numerical analyses, we reveal that adopting a multi-brand restaurant does not always guarantee superior profit performance. Such an adoption is recommended under certain conditions, such as when the potential market base is large, consumers are not very price-sensitive, food and delivery costs are low, an increase in food items does not significantly impact process inefficiency, franchise fees are low, or the relative market power of multiple brands is strong. Otherwise, adopting the traditional single-brand restaurant would guarantee better profit performance. Therefore, for a sustainable multi-brand restaurant adoption, it is important to create a business environment that can lower food prices, and a thorough understanding of the decision dynamics related to the number of brands is required.
Acorns: From an Ancient Food to a Modern Sustainable Resource
Authors: Inácio Leonardo G. , Bernardino Raul , Bernardino Susana , Afonso Clélia
Published: November 2024

Acorns, the seeds of oak trees, are pivotal in the Mediterranean region, historically serving as vital sustenance for wildlife and humans. Although traditionally used for livestock, in times of scarcity, acorns were also used in human diets together with their use in traditional medicine. In this review, we explore and deepen the multifaceted significance of oak species, consolidating nutritional data while emphasizing sustainable practices for modern dietary integration and potential applications in other areas, promoting long-term ecological balance. In the Mediterranean region, notable species are Quercus ilex, Q. faginea, Q. suber, and Q. coccifera, which differ in flavor, texture, and nutritional content. Rich in carbohydrates, acorns can contain up to 50% starch as well as amino acids, proteins, and lipids. This nutritional composition favors the preparation of flour for use in bread doughs or even diverse types of processing such as roasting, which makes it a substitute for coffee. Furthermore, acorn by-products, containing tannins, find applications in leather processing. This review highlights and summarizes in detail the nutritional potential, culinary adaptability, and diverse applications of acorns, emphasizing the need to preserve and utilize natural resources sustainably. In doing so, it sheds light on the often-overlooked value of these humble seeds.
Perspectives on Evaluation of Food Banks
Authors: Chaim Nuria Abrahão , Arraes Nilson Antonio Modesto
Published: November 2024

Food banks have played an important role in reducing food loss and waste and improving the food insecurity of vulnerable people. This study aimed to carry out a systematic review of food bank evaluation studies and bring new perspectives for future research and decision-making. Ninety-three articles were selected and analyzed from a search on the Web of Science and ScienceDirect platforms. Bibliometric analyses and analyses of the evaluation methodologies were performed. The bibliometric results present the evolution of the studies over the period considered (1994–2024) and indicate how peaks of growth in the number of studies may be related to external events. Both the authors and studied organizations are located mainly in high-income countries. The main aspects considered in the evaluation methodologies are related to the dimensions of short-term impacts and results, indicating less interest in the dimension related to internal processes and activities. This study provides important support for researchers and decision-makers: in addition to presenting, in each dimension of the evaluation, the main indicators used, it raises the questions of the extent to which evaluation studies reflect the reality and context of a given country or region and the extent to which they reflect the management processes of food banks.
Optimisation and Composition of the Recycled Cold Mix with a High Content of Waste Materials
Authors: Buczyński Przemysław , Krasowski Jakub
Published: November 2024

This research focuses on a mineral–cement mixture containing bitumen emulsion, designed for cold recycling procedures, the formulation of which includes 80% (m/m) of waste material. Deep cold recycling technology from the MCE mixture guarantees the implementation of a sustainable development policy in the field of road construction. The utilised waste materials include 50% (m/m) reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) from damaged asphalt layers and 30% (m/m) recycled aggregate (RA) sourced from the substructure. In order to assess the possibility of using a significant amount of waste materials in the composition of the mineral–cement–emulsion (MCE) mixture, it is necessary to optimise the MCE mix. Optimisation was carried out with respect to the quantity and type of binding agents, such as Portland cement (CEM), bitumen emulsion (EMU), and redispersible polymer powder (RPP). The examination of the impact of the binding agents on the physico-mechanical characteristics of the MCE blend was performed using a Box–Behnken trivalent fractional design. This method has not been used before to optimise MCE mixture composition. This is a novelty in predicting MCE mixture properties. Examinations of the physical properties, mechanical properties, resistance to the effects of climatic factors, and stiffness modulus were conducted on Marshall samples prepared in laboratory settings. Mathematical models determining the variability of the attributes under analysis in correlation with the quantity of the binding agents were determined for the properties under investigation. The MCE mixture composition was optimised through the acquired mathematical models describing the physico-mechanical characteristics, resistance to climatic factors, and rigidity modulus. The optimisation was carried out through the generalised utility function UIII. The optimisation resulted in indicating the proportional percentages of the binders, enabling the assurance of the required properties of the cold recycled mix while utilising the maximum quantity of waste materials.
Can the Inclusiveness of Foreign Capital Improve Corporate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Performance? Evidence from China
Authors: He Bing , Ma Cancan
Published: November 2024

Foreign direct investment (FDI) has become an important factor influencing corporate operational strategies, yet the impact of its inclusiveness on corporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance remains unclear. In this study, the correlation of city-level FDI inclusiveness with corporate-level ESG performance was investigated based on data from 1258 Chinese A-share listed companies between 2011 and 2021. The effects of FDI inclusiveness on corporate ESG performance and its underlying mechanisms were investigated. The findings indicate that an increase in FDI inclusiveness significantly improves corporate ESG performance. Additionally, the moderating role of corporate competitive advantage and urban entrepreneurial vitality was analyzed, and the findings indicate that an increase in urban FDI inclusiveness significantly improves corporate ESG performance. Managerial green attention and corporate innovation capability play intermediary roles in the overall impact, with the total impact being positively moderated by investor attention. Furthermore, the influence of FDI inclusiveness on corporate ESG performance exhibits significant heterogeneity resulting from variations in digital policies, environmental policies, and ownership structures.
Studying the Photoactivity of Ag-Decorated TiO2 Nanotubes with Combined AFM and Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Shinnur Manjunath Veeranna , Menegazzo Marco , Bussetti Gianlorenzo , Duò Lamberto , Pedeferri MariaPia , Diamanti Maria Vittoria
Published: November 2024

The drive for the development of systems that can simultaneously investigate chemical and morphological information comes from the requisite to fully understand the structure and chemical reactivity relationships of materials. This is particularly relevant in photocatalysis, a field ruled by surface interactions. An in-depth understanding of these complex interactions could lead to significant improvements in materials design, and consequently, in photocatalytic performances. Here, we present a first approach to a combined atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Raman spectroscopy characterization of anodic TiO2 nanotubes arrays decorated with Ag nanoparticle electrodeposition from either the same anodizing organic electrolyte or from an aqueous one. Photocatalytic substrates were used in up to 15 consecutive photocatalysis tests to prove their possible deterioration with reuse. Sample aging can, in principle, produce changes in both the morphology and the chemical compounds that characterize the photocatalyst surface. Adopting multiple characterization techniques, such as a combination of AFM and Raman spectroscopy in an original setup, can profitably enable the observation of surface contamination. A significant drop in photocatalytic activity was observed after 10 cycles on samples where silver was deposited from the organic electrolyte, while the others remained stable. Such a drop was ascribed to photocatalyst deactivation. While in other cases, a simple recovery treatment allowed the initial photoactivity to be restored, this deactivation was not restored even after chemical and thermal cleaning treatments.
Enhanced Phosphate Removal by Hydrated Lanthanum Oxide-Modified Quaternized Polyaniline Nanocomposite: Performance and Mechanism
Authors: Ji Enhui , Fang Minglong , Wu Haixia
Published: November 2024

Phosphorus mainly exists in the form of phosphate in water. Excessive phosphorus can cause eutrophication, leading to algae reproduction and the depletion of oxygen in water, destroying aquatic ecology. This study prepared quaternized polyaniline (PN) and quaternized polyaniline with lanthanum hydrate (HLO-PN), and a new nanocomposite for removing phosphate from wastewater was proposed. The results of adsorption experiments show that HLO-PN can effectively remove phosphate in the range of pH 3~7; the maximum adsorption capacity is 92.57 mg/g, and it has excellent anti-interference ability against some common coexisting anions (F−, Cl−, NO3−, SO42−) other than CO32−. After five adsorption–desorption cycles, the phosphate adsorption capacity (60 mg/g) was still 74.28% of the initial adsorption capacity (80.85 mg/g), indicating that the HLO-PN nanocomposites had good reusability and recovery of phosphorus. The characterization results show that phosphate adsorption is realized by electrostatic adsorption and ligand exchange.
Path Algebra-Driven Classification Solution to Realize User-Centric Performance-Oriented Virtual Network Embeddings
Authors: Prekas Stelios , Karkazis Panagiotis A. , Trakadas Panagiotis
Published: November 2024

The intense diversity of the Next-Generation Networking environments like 6G and the forthcoming deployment of immersive applications with varied user-specific requirements transform the efficient allocation of resources into a real challenge. Traditional solutions like the shortest path algorithm and mono-constraint methodologies are inadequate to handle customized user-defined performance parameters and effectively classify physical resources according to these intricate demands. This research offers a new evaluation mechanism to successfully replace the aforementioned traditional path ranking and path selection techniques. Specifically, the proposed framework is integrated with optimization-oriented metrics, each indicating a unique aspect of performance for evaluating candidate network paths. The deployed metrics are then algebraically synthesized to provide a distinctive multidimensional description of the examined substrate resources. These primary and composite metrics adhere to the fundamental monotonicity and isotonicity properties of a Path Algebra; hence, the validity and optimality of the proposed evaluation mechanism is guaranteed by design. To tackle the complexity created by the variety of human-centric customization, a novel methodology that analyzes and determines the weighted influence of the synthesized metrics depending on the characteristics of the served user-centric application is also introduced. The chosen suitable weights address performance-oriented mission-critical tailored objectives for adaptive optimizations. Its innovative algebraic design allows it to successfully describe and rank candidate paths in a versatile way, whether in legacy or modern architectures. The experimental data of the first scenario show that 62.5% and 50% of highlighted path evaluations proposed by the shortest path and unidimensional constraint strategies, respectively, suffer from moderate performance-oriented values compared to the proposed framework. Likewise, the results of the second examined scenario reveal that the proposed composite metric yields more suitable path rankings by 50% in contrast to its traditional counterparts, rendering the contested evaluation mechanisms obsolete.
Motivation-Based Segmentation of Hiking Tourists in Taiwan
Authors: Ng Sai-Leung , Hsu Ming-Chien
Published: November 2024

Hiking is one of the most popular and significant recreational activities in natural settings, yet hiking tourists are often not distinguished from the broader population of nature-based tourists. This study aimed to identify distinct segments of hiking tourists based on their motivations and to explore the relationship between segmentation, motivations, and their satisfaction with the hiking experience. Using a questionnaire survey of 262 hiking tourists in Taiwan and multivariate statistical techniques, four hiking motives—“relaxation”, “social interaction”, “competence and exploration”, and “mental refreshment”—were identified, and four segments of hiking tourists—“mental refreshment seekers”, “social hikers”, “challenge seekers”, and “general purpose hikers”—were classified, respectively. While all segments reported high levels of satisfaction, their satisfaction was influenced by different motives. This study enhances the theoretical understanding of hiking motives and provides practical recommendations for enhancing hiking experiences and nature conservation.
Demystifying the Use of Open-Access Data in Smart Heritage Implementations
Authors: Geng Shiran , Chau Hing-Wah , Jamei Elmira , Vrcelj Zora
Published: November 2024

Smart Heritage, a concept closely linked to Smart Cities and Smart Tourism, is an emerging field focused on enhancing heritage identity, visitor experience, and cultural sustainability. While initial frameworks have been developed, there is a gap in applying Smart Heritage at the precinct level, especially in large-scale heritage sites. This study addresses this gap by examining how open-access data can be utilised in a real-world case study of Chinatown Melbourne, a key urban heritage precinct. Data sources include archival maps, open-access databases, and 3D models provided by the local city council, covering resources such as on-street parking, pedestrian activity, microclimate, and dwelling functionalities. This study employed a structured methodology that transitions from global best practices to local applications, linking these data resources to Smart Heritage applications and identifying opportunities for improving urban management, heritage curation, and the tourism experience within the case study precinct. The findings offer practical insights for researchers and policymakers, demonstrating how data can support the development of culturally sustainable and technologically integrated heritage precincts. Future research should explore additional data types and case studies to further advance the field of Smart Heritage.
Use of a Facebook Support Group for Kidney Transplant Patients
Authors: Yongye Tenzin , Keller Maria , Bandyopadhyay Surjo , Zaaroura Ahmad , Kayler Liise K.
Published: November 2024

Background: Facebook groups have been used to foster social support of transplant patients. Examining the use and content strategies for generating member interactions within transplant-specific groups can inform how we leverage these groups to expand access to social support resources. This study characterizes the use of a closed Facebook group for kidney transplant patient support linked to a hospital in Buffalo, NY to identify the most engaging content. Methods: The sample consisted of 387 individuals (372 patients/family, eight transplant professionals, and seven community advocates) and the administrator. Content analysis was conducted of posts and comments made to the group. Descriptive measures of post content associated with interactions (reactions and comments) were computed. Results: Between 5/2020 and 5/2023, there were 484 posts with 8233 interactions (2793 comments, 5440 reactions). Half of the posts (n = 241) were made by the administrator, 166 (34%) by patients/family, 70 (14%) by community advocates, and 7 (1%) by transplant professionals. Content analysis revealed that post types with the most interactions were personal experiences, monthly transplant volume, and monthly new members added; the least interactions involved posts about holidays, observances, and information. Conclusions: The interaction metrics varied according to the content strategies used by members and provided insights into the types of content members interact with.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients with Different Variants of SARS-CoV-2 in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Thailand
Authors: Hengkrawit Kitchawan , Thananon Juthamas , Telapol Kritakarn , Chiewchalermsri Chirawat
Published: November 2024

The different strains of SARS-CoV-2 were detected and labeled in 2021. Each strain differs in both clinical symptoms and severity. Previous studies found different clinical symptoms and treatment outcomes between outbreak waves; however, data in Southeast Asia were limited. This study collected data of hospitalized COVID-19 patients from a Tertiary hospital in Thailand between January 2020 and December 2023 and analyzed patients’ data in each outbreak wave using Pearson’s chi-square. A total of 1084 inpatients were included for analysis. The median age was 64 (IQR, 0.4–100) years. The patients were hospitalized in predominantly Alpha (22.78%), Delta (21.68%), and Omicron (5.07%) periods of the virus outbreak. The largest age group was elderly (over 65 years old) in all three variant of concern (VOC) periods; 82.65% of the patients had comorbidities, including 58.5% hypertension, 46.5% dyslipidemia, and 42.0% diabetes mellitus (DM). The study found pneumonia at 67.53%, septic shock at 4.61%, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) at 2.86%, and congestive heart failure at 0.83% in all age groups with no significant difference between outbreak periods. The overall mortality rate was 16.14%. A total of 75% of deaths occurred in patients over 65 years old. The mortality rates in each VOC period were 20.0% Delta, 19.83% Alpha, and 13.23% Omicron. In the elderly group, the mortality rates were Delta 15.32%, Alpha 11.75%, and Omicron 10.88%. The Omicron VOC was less severe than other variants, particularly in the elderly (≥65 years). There were no significant differences in the younger (<65 years) age group. The elderly still had more severe symptoms and the highest mortality rates in every wave of outbreak.
Fractal Analysis of Mining Wastewater Time Series Parameters: Balkhash Urban Region and Sayak Ore District
Authors: Biloshchytskyi Andrii , Kuchanskyi Oleksandr , Neftissov Alexandr , Andrashko Yurii , Biloshchytska Svitlana , Kazambayev Ilyas
Published: November 2024

The population life and health quality are significantly reduced due to water resources pollution caused by heavy metals, especially in urban agglomerations located close to metal ore mining and processing facilities. The greatest environmental pollution occurs during the extraction of Cu, Zn, and Pb. In this study, a fractal R/S analysis of wastewater discharge indicators time series from a metal ore mining facility located in the Sayak ore district in the Republic of Kazakhstan (turbidity, electrical conductivity, flow magnitude, and pH level) was carried out. A sharp increase in the flow rate was recorded from 10 to 15 July 2024 and an increase in the electrical conductivity from 4 to 26 July 2024. However, the latest type of indicator assessment does not exceed the critical level for life. The presence of electrical conductivity indicators time series long-term memory and persistence was also recorded (the Hurst exponent for the electrical conductivity time series is fixed in the 0.56 to 0.59 range and does not go below the threshold value for randomness according to the Anis-Lloyd formula). Thus, the value-changing process is controlled and stable, and minor changes in turbidity indicate that these releases do not significantly harm the environment. Despite this, the results obtained do not allow for a comprehensive analysis of the state of releases as the data from all deposits is not available. Therefore, due to the time constraints of the data provided for analysis, it is difficult to fully assess the impact of specific metal ore mining facilities on the environmental safety of the Balkhash urban region. In addition, many studies indicate very high risks of chronic diseases for the population living in this region. The findings of this study enable us to conclude that the application of fractal analysis and the calculation of fractal characteristics for time series of emissions can serve as an indicator of the environmental status within the given area. This information can be used by environmental services to build reliable environmental pollution monitoring systems.
Machine Learning Based Inversion of Water Quality Parameters in Typical Reach of Rural Wetland by Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Images
Authors: Zeng Na , Ma Libang , Zheng Hao , Zhao Yihui , He Zhicheng , Deng Susu , Wang Yixiang
Published: November 2024

Rural wetlands are complex landscapes where rivers, croplands, and villages coexist, making water quality monitoring crucial for the well-being of nearby residents. UAV-based imagery has proven effective in capturing detailed features of water bodies, making it a popular tool for water quality assessments. However, few studies have specifically focused on drone-based water quality monitoring in rural wetlands and their seasonal variations. In this study, Xiangfudang Rural Wetland Park, Jiaxin City, Zhejiang Province, China, was taken as the study area to evaluate water quality parameters, including total nitrogen (TN), total phosphors (TP), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and turbidity degree (TUB). We assessed these parameters across summer and winter seasons using UAV multispectral imagery and field sample data. Four machine learning algorithms were evaluated and compared for the inversion of the water quality parameters, based on the situ sample survey data and UAV multispectral images. The results show that ANN algorithm yielded the best results for estimating TN, COD, and TUB, with validation R2 of 0.78, 0.76, and 0.57, respectively; CatBoost performed best in TP estimation, with validation R2 and RMSE values of 0.72 and 0.05 mg/L. Based on spatial estimation results, the average COD concentration in the water body was 16.05 ± 9.87 mg/L in summer, higher than it was in winter (13.02 ± 8.22 mg/L). Additionally, mean TUB values were 18.39 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU) in summer and 20.03 NTU in winter. This study demonstrates the novelty and effectiveness of using UAV multispectral imagery for water quality monitoring in rural wetlands, providing critical insights into seasonal water quality variations in these areas.
Integrated Application of Innovative Technologies for Oil Spill Remediation in Gran Tarajal Harbor: A Scientific Approach
Authors: Cisneros-Aguirre Jesús , Afonso-Correa María
Published: November 2024

This study examines recovery efforts at Gran Tarajal Harbor following a significant oil spill, employing a combination of innovative technologies tailored to enhance oil spill remediation. Cleanup operations incorporated advanced absorbent sponges with high reusability, absorbent granulates for targeted hydrocarbon capture, bioremediation techniques using allochthonous microorganisms to accelerate natural degradation processes, and the integration of newly designed oil containment barriers coupled with sponges. These technologies were instrumental in effectively mitigating environmental damage, as evidenced by a reduction in hydrocarbon concentrations in sediments from nearly 60,000 mg/kg to under 1600 mg/kg within seven months. Notably, advanced absorbent sponges demonstrated superior capacity for repeated use, optimizing the cleanup process and contributing to the sustainability of the response efforts. The most important finding of this research is the demonstrated efficacy of integrated approach in not only reducing hydrocarbon contamination but also in promoting ecological recovery. Heavy metal analyses revealed that lead and copper concentrations were primarily associated with routine port activities, while mercury levels, attributed to the spill, decreased significantly over time. Tissue analysis of local organisms showed minimal contamination, and assessments of biological communities indicated signs of ecological recovery. This work highlights the necessity of introduce new disruptive technologies in contingency plans.
FPGA-Based High-Frequency Voltage Injection Sensorless Control with Novel Rotor Position Estimation Extraction for Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
Authors: Ferdiansyah Indra , Hanamoto Tsuyoshi
Published: November 2024

This study developed a realization of sensorless control for a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) using a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Both position and speed were estimated using a high-frequency (HF) injection scheme. Accurate estimation is essential to ensure the proper functioning of sensorless motor control. To improve the estimation accuracy of the rotor position and reduce the motor speed ripple found in conventional methods, a new extraction strategy for estimating the rotor position and motor speed is proposed. First, signal modulation compensation was applied to expand the information of the error function in order to provide more accurate data to the tracking loop system for rotor position extraction. Second, to minimize the motor speed ripple caused by the HF injection, motor speed estimation was performed after obtaining the rotor position information using a differential equation with a low-pass filter (LPF) to avoid the direct effect of the injected signal. Verified experimentally, the results showed that the rotor position error did not exceed 10 el.deg, so these methods effectively reduce the rotor position estimation error by about 30%, along with the motor speed ripple. Therefore, better performance in sensorless PMSM control can be achieved in motor control applications.
An Exploration of the Barriers and Facilitators Shaping Vaping Cessation Among Australian Young Adults
Authors: Rahman Nicola , Sebar Bernadette , Sofija Ernesta
Published: November 2024

This study of 18–24-year-old young adults (YAs) in Australia who use, or used to use, nicotine vape products (NVPs) sought to explore their experiences when attempting to quit vaping to understand the barriers and identify facilitators of cessation. We analysed data from a survey (n = 532) of 422 YAs who vape and 110 YAs who used to vape, as well as interactive workshops (n = 12) and semi-structured interviews (n = 3), which included 7 YAs using and 8 no longer using NVPs. Social Cognitive Theory informed the data collection, with open-ended questions exploring how personal, environmental and behavioural factors shaped vaping cessation. Qualitative analyses revealed 11 themes shaping vaping cessation, including the normalisation of vaping, easy access and a desire to fit in. Vaping cessation was complicated by using NVPs to manage symptoms of mental ill-health. Additionally, former vapers reported using combustibles to replace vaping, highlighting the risk of health impacts from smoking. Potential support sources included friends and general practitioners, or family doctors. Support service development must consider de-normalising vaping, addressing underlying mental health issues and providing effective campaigns around the health risks of vaping and smoking. The findings highlight the need to invest in vaping cessation, and they can inform the design of vaping cessation programs to better support those trying to quit and ensure the success of their quit attempts.