Sustainability

22 pages, 6660 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy-Efficient and Secure Load Balancing Technique for SDN-Enabled Fog Computing

by Jagdeep Singh, Parminder Singh, El Mehdi Amhoud and Mustapha Hedabou

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12951; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912951 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3456

The number of client applications on the fog computing layer is increasing due to advancements in the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm. Fog computing plays a significant role in reducing latency and enhancing resource usage for IoT users’ tasks. Along with its various [...] Read more.

The number of client applications on the fog computing layer is increasing due to advancements in the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm. Fog computing plays a significant role in reducing latency and enhancing resource usage for IoT users’ tasks. Along with its various benefits, fog computing also faces several challenges, including challenges related to resource overloading, security, node placement, scheduling, and energy consumption. In fog computing, load balancing is a difficult challenge due to the increased number of IoT devices and requests, which requires an equal load distribution throughout all available resources. In this study, we proposed a secure and energy-aware fog computing architecture, and we implemented a load-balancing technique to improve the complete utilization of resources with an SDN-enabled fog environment. A deep belief network (DBN)-based intrusion detection method was also implemented as part of the proposed techniques to reduce workload communication delays in the fog layer. The simulation findings showed that the proposed technique provided an efficient method of load balancing in a fog environment, minimizing the average response time, average energy consumption, and communication delay by 15%, 23%, and 10%, respectively, as compared with other existing techniques. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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21 pages, 5117 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Optimized Clustering Approach to Investigate the Main Features in Predicting the Punching Shear Capacity of Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete

by Shaojie Zhang, Mahdi Hasanipanah, Biao He, Ahmad Safuan A. Rashid, Dmitrii Vladimirovich Ulrikh and Qiancheng Fang

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12950; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912950 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2010

Abstract

We developed an optimized system for solving engineering problems according to the characteristics of data. Because data analysis includes different variations, the use of common features can increase the performance and accuracy of models. Therefore, this study, using a combination of optimization techniques [...] Read more.

We developed an optimized system for solving engineering problems according to the characteristics of data. Because data analysis includes different variations, the use of common features can increase the performance and accuracy of models. Therefore, this study, using a combination of optimization techniques (K-means algorithm) and prediction techniques, offers a new system and procedure that can identify and analyze data with similarity and close grouping. The system developed using the new sparrow search algorithm (SSA) has been updated as a new hybrid solution to optimize development engineering problems. The data for proposing the mentioned techniques were collected from a series of laboratory works on samples of steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC). To investigate the issue, the data were first divided into different clusters, taking into account common features. After introducing the top clusters, each cluster was developed using three predictive models, i.e., multi-layer perceptron (MLP), support vector regression (SVR), and tree-based techniques. This process continues until the criteria are met. Accordingly, the K-means–artificial neural network 3 structure shows the best performance in terms of accuracy and error. The results also showed that the structure of hybrid models with cluster numbers 2, 3, and 4 is higher than the baseline models in terms of accuracy for assessing the punching shear capacity (PSC) of SFRC. The K-means–ANN3-SSA generated a new methodology for optimizing PSC. The new proposed model/procedure can be used for a similar situation by combining clustering and prediction methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reinforced Concrete Structures, Seismic Reliability and Sustainability)

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14 pages, 4427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structural Model of Community Social Capital for Enhancing Rural Communities Adaptation against the COVID-19 Pandemic: Empirical Evidence from Pujon Kidul Tourism Village, Malang Regency, Indonesia

by Gunawan Prayitno, Ainul Hayat, Achmad Efendi, Aidha Auliah and Dian Dinanti

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12949; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912949 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2303

Abstract

Pujon Kidul Village, Pujon District, Malang Regency, is an area with tourism potential that has been developed since 2017 with the concept of agricultural tourism. Throughout the development of tourism villages, Pujon Kidul Village has succeeded in accelerating economic growth and providing jobs [...] Read more.

Pujon Kidul Village, Pujon District, Malang Regency, is an area with tourism potential that has been developed since 2017 with the concept of agricultural tourism. Throughout the development of tourism villages, Pujon Kidul Village has succeeded in accelerating economic growth and providing jobs for the community. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism villages have been severely affected, leading to the temporary closure of tourist attractions and community businesses. This research aimed to identify what indicators form social capital variables and the relationship between social capital variables and community adaptation patterns in dealing with pandemics in the study location. This was quantitative research with confirmatory factor analysis to determine the indicators of forming social capital and structural equation modeling analysis to determine the relationship between the variables. Based on the findings, it is known that trust in forming a social network is 0.468. Furthermore, the social network forms community actions of 0.046 and influences community resilience by 0.007. Therefore, good social capital will make it easier for the community to participate in collective action as a form of caring for each other during the pandemic. This action also influences the community to survive in a pandemic crisis, thus creating an adaptation pattern for the Pujon Kidul Tourism Village community in facing a pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Trends in Tourism under COVID-19 and Future Implications)

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13 pages, 2082 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Scheduling of Hybrid Sustainable Energy Microgrid: A Case Study for a Resort in Sokhna, Egypt

by Ashraf K. Abdelaal, Elshahat F. Mohamed and Attia A. El-Fergany

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12948; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912948 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1930

Abstract

This paper is focused on analyzing, investigating, and designing a hybrid energy system based on sustainable or renewable resources, namely solar and wind energy, in addition to using a diesel generator and battery storage to supply a small resort in Suez, Egypt. The [...] Read more.

This paper is focused on analyzing, investigating, and designing a hybrid energy system based on sustainable or renewable resources, namely solar and wind energy, in addition to using a diesel generator and battery storage to supply a small resort in Suez, Egypt. The resort is located in Sokhna, which is on the Suez gulf and is about 50 km from the Suez governorate and 100 km from Cairo, Egypt. The Sokhna coast has plenty of high solar radiation and wind energy all year. At the same time, the Egyptian government is building many wind and photovoltaic projects there. Thus, it is expected that it will be very economic to use solar and wind energy in that area to supply the resort. The optimal combinations of energy resources to meet the load demand under various scenarios are considered. The optimal mix of sources is investigated with and without the presence of the grid. The cropped outcomes show that the hybrid energy system, which is also in the presence of the grid, is a very economical solution that provides the resort with an acceptable energy cost. The cost of energies (CoEs) is equal to 0.0441 and 0.0443 $/kWh for cases 2 and 4 (with grid), respectively. However, the CoEs are equal to 0.141 and 0.134 $/kWh for cases 1 and 3 (without grid), respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Distributed Generation through Virtual Power Plant)

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14 pages, 1087 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Emissions of Construction Processes on Urban Construction Sites

by Maximilian Weigert, Oleksandr Melnyk, Leopold Winkler and Jacqueline Raab

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12947; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912947 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4167

Abstract

For Europe to achieve “climate neutrality” by 2050, emissions from all economic sectors must be reduced to the absolute minimum. In addition to changes in raw material extraction and building material production, the construction industry must embrace emission-free construction sites. The present paper [...] Read more.

For Europe to achieve “climate neutrality” by 2050, emissions from all economic sectors must be reduced to the absolute minimum. In addition to changes in raw material extraction and building material production, the construction industry must embrace emission-free construction sites. The present paper suggests a method to calculate carbon emissions on construction sites by defining all fuel-consuming processes while relying on established European standards. A set of system boundaries is defined to single out emissions that occur in the construction industry sphere. These definitions are essential to calculate savings through the entire construction process. This method is subsequently used to assess the carbon balance of four exemplary construction sites in Austria, which cover the total span of the construction life cycle. Results show that the largest share of emissions is attributed to transport during the construction of new buildings, followed by emissions from demolition and building processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of Construction Management and Engineering)

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25 pages, 1416 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Appropriate Acceleration Lane Length for Safe and Efficient Truck Platooning Operation on Freeway Merge Areas

by Tanvir Uddin Chowdhury, Peter Y. Park and Kevin Gingerich

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12946; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912946 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3655

Abstract

The length of an acceleration lane is one of the dominant freeway geometric design parameters. This length requires new analyses to anticipate the needs of heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) platooning. We evaluated the safety and operational impact of HCV platooning on acceleration lane [...] Read more.

The length of an acceleration lane is one of the dominant freeway geometric design parameters. This length requires new analyses to anticipate the needs of heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) platooning. We evaluated the safety and operational impact of HCV platooning on acceleration lane length for a freeway ramp in Ontario, Canada. This study modified the 2018 AASHTO’s acceleration lane length estimation analytical model. Furthermore, this study used a VISSIM micro-simulation model and surrogated safety assessment model (SSAM) to examine the safety and operational impact on the real-world circumstances of HCV platooning at 0.6 s and 1.2 s headways and different market penetration rates of 0%, 5%, and 10%. The results suggest a minimum acceleration lane length of 600 m for platooned HCVs, which is inadequate compared to American and Canadian design guidelines. An extended acceleration lane length (600 m) will improve safety by reducing conflict by 19.2% and operational performance by reducing 3.9% of 85th percentile merging time for the operation of 5% HCV platooning with 0.6 s headway compared with 350 m acceleration lane length. This study suggests 5% of traffic containing two HCV platoons with 0.6 s headway may be reasonable for operation during certain hours of the day under existing conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resilient, Safe and Sustainable Solutions for Freight Transport and Logistics)

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20 pages, 6135 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Scientometric Analysis of Climate Change Adaptation Studies

by Tiberiu Iancu, Valentina Constanta Tudor, Eduard Alexandru Dumitru, Cristina Maria Sterie, Marius Mihai Micu, Dragos Smedescu, Liviu Marcuta, Elena Tonea, Paula Stoicea, Catalin Vintu, Andy Felix Jitareanu and Luiza Carmen Costuleanu

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12945; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912945 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4015

Abstract

In recent years, climate change has begun to put pressure on humanity and affect natural and human systems. The aim of this paper is to provide an improved understanding of the state of the literature on the impacts of climate change that can [...] Read more.

In recent years, climate change has begun to put pressure on humanity and affect natural and human systems. The aim of this paper is to provide an improved understanding of the state of the literature on the impacts of climate change that can be addressed through measures related to disaster risk reduction, sustainable agricultural practices, and the circular economy. This review also represents a valuable and fundamental reference for both researchers and practitioners in these fields. A total of 74,703 articles (climate change adaptation, 45,030; disaster risk reduction, 5920; sustainable agricultural practices, 7940; circular economy, 15,813) published between 1990 and 2022 were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection, and the links between these areas were mapped using VOSviewer. There has been an increase in the amount of published research on these four topics since 2007, indicating the increasing involvement of researchers to address these topics, influenced by the concerns of national and international bodies to address these changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agricultural Economy)

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22 pages, 927 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards Lean Automation in Construction—Exploring Barriers to Implementing Automation in Prefabrication

by Finn G. Feldmann

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12944; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912944 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3663

Abstract

As a sustainable alternative to conventional cast-in-situ construction, modular construction (MC) offers several promising benefits concerning energy and waste reduction, shorter construction times, as well as increased quality. In addition, given its high degree of prefabrication, MC offers ideal conditions to solve the [...] Read more.

As a sustainable alternative to conventional cast-in-situ construction, modular construction (MC) offers several promising benefits concerning energy and waste reduction, shorter construction times, as well as increased quality. In addition, given its high degree of prefabrication, MC offers ideal conditions to solve the industry’s long-lasting productivity problem by implementing manufacturing concepts such as lean production and automation. However, in practice, the share of automation and robotics in the production process is still relatively low, which is why the potential of this construction method is currently far from being fully exploited. An overview of the particular barriers to implementing automation in the context of MC is still lacking. Therefore, a qualitative study was conducted including eight MC manufacturers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Following a comprehensive literature review, expert interviews were conducted based on an academically proven framework. Thereby, seven barrier dimensions with 21 sub-categories could be identified. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of current barriers to implementing automation in prefabrication and how they can be overcome most effectively. Additionally, recommendations for future research are proposed within a research agenda. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Automation and Digital Fabrication in the Building Construction Process)

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16 pages, 2569 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Effects of Traffic Noise on Innovation through Health Mechanism: A Quasi-Experimental Study in China

by Xiaojia Chen and Wei Xu

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12943; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912943 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1898

Abstract

Noise pollution poses a significant hazard to humans by disrupting the maintenance of the quiet environment that is thought to promote innovation. In this study, the causal relationship between traffic noise and innovation was explored using four models. First, the panel data model [...] Read more.

Noise pollution poses a significant hazard to humans by disrupting the maintenance of the quiet environment that is thought to promote innovation. In this study, the causal relationship between traffic noise and innovation was explored using four models. First, the panel data model with fixed effects was applied to determine the impact of traffic noise on innovation. Second, the interaction model was used to estimate the health regulatory effect. Third, the regression discontinuity model was used to identify the natural experience of the impact of traffic noise on innovation and further determine the causal effect of the noise threshold. Finally, the difference-in-differences model was used to identify the micro impact of traffic noise on innovation. The results show that from macro and micro perspectives, traffic noise suppresses innovation, and that health has a differential impact on the traffic noise–innovation relationship. In addition, we identified the critical point at which the impact of traffic noise on innovation is favorable owing to the white noise effect, providing a quantitative basis for policy implementation. Our results show that current environmental noise regulations must be re-examined to determine new measures for improving the innovative acoustic environment, promoting innovation, and achieving sustainable economic development. Full article

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33 pages, 2185 KiB

Open AccessReview

Time to Conquer Fungal Infectious Diseases: Employing Nanoparticles as Powerful and Versatile Antifungal Nanosystems against a Wide Variety of Fungal Species

by Ali Jangjou, Zahra Zareshahrabadi, Milad Abbasi, Amirreza Talaiekhozani, Hesam Kamyab, Shreeshivadasan Chelliapan, Ahmad Vaez, Ali Golchin, Lobat Tayebi, Ehsan Vafa, Ali Mohammad Amani and Hossein Faramarzi

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12942; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912942 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 4072

Abstract

The development of novel antifungal agents and, in particular, the widespread use of these medications over the course of the past two decades, has had a significant impact on the treatment of fungal infectious diseases. This has resulted in a complete transformation of [...] Read more.

The development of novel antifungal agents and, in particular, the widespread use of these medications over the course of the past two decades, has had a significant impact on the treatment of fungal infectious diseases. This has resulted in a complete transformation of the treatment of fungal infectious diseases. However, the widespread development of antibiotic resistance has masked the significance of such breakthroughs. Antifungal infection treatment with nanoparticles has been shown to be effective. As a result of their unique characteristics, these substances, in contrast to antibiotics in their purest form, are able to exhibit an increased anti-proliferative capacity while requiring a lower concentration than traditional drugs do in order to achieve the same effect. Decreased drug effectiveness, minimal tissue penetration throughout tissue, restricted tissue penetration, decreased bioavailability, poor drug pharmacokinetics, and low water solubility are some of the major factors contributing to the employment of antifungal medicines in delivery systems. Because of this, one of the primary goals of incorporating antifungal medications into varying sorts of nanoparticles is to reduce the negative effects of the drugs’ inherent qualities. This article provides an overview of the many types of nanoparticles, such as metal, metal oxide, and non-metal oxide nanoparticles, carbon-based nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanofibers, antifungal peptides, composites, and ZnO quantum dots, that can be used as antifungal drug delivery systems, as well as the benefits that these nanomaterials have over purified medications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circular Economy and Clean Technology for a Sustainable Future)

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24 pages, 11118 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Metaheuristic-Based Micro-Grid Sizing Model with Integrated Arbitrage-Aware Multi-Day Battery Dispatching

by Soheil Mohseni and Alan C. Brent

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12941; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912941 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2298

Abstract

Rule-based micro-grid dispatch strategies have received significant attention over the last two decades. However, a recent body of literature has conclusively shown the benefits of operational scheduling optimisation while optimally sizing micro-grids. This is commonly referred to as micro-grid design and dispatch co-optimisation [...] Read more.

Rule-based micro-grid dispatch strategies have received significant attention over the last two decades. However, a recent body of literature has conclusively shown the benefits of operational scheduling optimisation while optimally sizing micro-grids. This is commonly referred to as micro-grid design and dispatch co-optimisation (MGDCO). However, as far as can be ascertained, all the existing MGDCO models in the literature consider a 24-h-resolved day-ahead timeframe for the associated optimal energy scheduling processes. That is, intelligent, look-ahead energy dispatch strategies over multi-day timeframes are generally absent from the wider relevant literature. In response, this paper introduces a novel MGDCO modelling framework that integrates an arbitrage-aware linear programming-based multi-day energy dispatch strategy into the standard metaheuristic-based micro-grid investment planning processes. Importantly, the model effectively extends the mainstream energy scheduling optimisation timeframe in the micro-grid investment planning problems by producing optimal dispatch solutions that are aware of scenarios over three days. Based on the numeric simulation results obtained from a test-case micro-grid, the effectiveness of the proposed optimisation-based dispatch strategy in the micro-grid sizing processes is verified, while retaining the computational tractability. Specifically, comparing the proposed investment planning framework, which uses the formulated 72-h dispatch strategies, with the business-as-usual MGDCO methods has demonstrated that it can reduce the micro-grid’s whole-life cost by up to 8%. Much of the outperformance of the proposed method can be attributed to the effective use of the behind-the-meter Li-ion battery storage, which improves the overall system flexibility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Storage and Demand Response in Sustainable Energy Systems)

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19 pages, 11760 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predicting Lateral Resistance of Piles in Cohesive Soils

by Wiphu Chaonoi, Jim Shiau, Chayut Ngamkhanong, Chanachai Thongchom, Pitthaya Jamsawang and Suraparb Keawsawasvong

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12940; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912940 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2469

Abstract

The ultimate lateral resistance of free- and fixed-headed piles in cohesive soil is examined in this paper using the three-dimensional finite element limit analysis with upper and lower bound theorems. A special concern, and that is the novelty of this study, is devoted [...] Read more.

The ultimate lateral resistance of free- and fixed-headed piles in cohesive soil is examined in this paper using the three-dimensional finite element limit analysis with upper and lower bound theorems. A special concern, and that is the novelty of this study, is devoted to the combined effect of the three important dimensionless parameters; namely, the overburden stress factor (n), the pile length-diameter ratio (L/D), and the ratio of eccentric length to diameter (e/D). Numerical results are expressed by using Broms’s horizontal load factor, and comparisons are made with several published solutions. In addition, the associated failure mechanisms are investigated with respect to the three parametric effects. The adopted new technique has been successfully used to study a number of different geo-stability problems. It is thus the aim of this paper to produce accurate and practical results with design equations and charts that can be used by practitioners to predict the undrained lateral capacity of fixed- and free-headed piles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Stability Analysis for Sustainable Development of Infrastructure)

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15 pages, 6808 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Optimal Cross-Sectional Shapes of the PEMFC Endplates by Using a Moment of Inertia and 3D FEM Models

by Zhiming Zhang, Jun Zhang, Yapeng Shang and Tong Zhang

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12939; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912939 - 10 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1647

Abstract

The deflection of the endplate under the clamping force has a vital effect on fuel cell performance. An optimal cross-sectional shape with a high moment of inertia of the endplate is significant to maximize the bending stiffness of the fuel cell stack. Five [...] Read more.

The deflection of the endplate under the clamping force has a vital effect on fuel cell performance. An optimal cross-sectional shape with a high moment of inertia of the endplate is significant to maximize the bending stiffness of the fuel cell stack. Five cross-sectional shapes (rectangular, round, parabolic, rectangular + round, and rectangular + parabolic) of the typical endplates are proposed. An analytical study on the moments of inertia of the endplates is introduced and analyzed. The maximum moments of inertia of the cross-sections are obtained and displayed in a matrix in thickness and length. The statistical results show that the “rectangular + parabolic” cross-section has the advantage of wide dimensional size while maintaining a high moment of inertia. Finally, the analytical studies are validated by a finite element method (FEM) and the corresponding trends are highly agreed upon. The maximum moment of inertia of the parabolic endplate is 85.71% higher than the rectangular endplate with a thickness of 80 mm, and the corresponding contact pressure variance is 6.15% less than the rectangular endplate. The presented analytical study is significant and effective to optimize the cross-sectional shape of the endplate and provide an endplate design direction for a large fuel cell stack. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Technologies in Energy Management of New Energy Vehicle)

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11 pages, 250 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Park Visitation and Physical Activity among Adults in Bangkok, Thailand

by Sigit D. Arifwidodo, Orana Chandrasiri, Niramon Rasri, Wipada Sirawarong, Panitat Rattanawichit and Natsiporn Sangyuan

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12938; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912938 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2172

Abstract

Visiting parks regularly can provide multiple health benefits, including increased physical activity levels. However, empirical evidence connecting park visitation and physical activity in urban settings in Southeast Asia remains scarce. This study explores the association between park visitation and physical activity among adults. [...] Read more.

Visiting parks regularly can provide multiple health benefits, including increased physical activity levels. However, empirical evidence connecting park visitation and physical activity in urban settings in Southeast Asia remains scarce. This study explores the association between park visitation and physical activity among adults. A cross-sectional study using a survey questionnaire of 585 respondents in Bangkok, Thailand was conducted. Two binomial logistic regressions (odds ratio = ORs, 95% confidence interval = CI) with park visitation and physical activity level as the dependent variables were employed. We found that park visitation was influenced by individual and neighborhood environment correlates. People with a healthy lifestyle and who lived near parks were more likely to visit parks. We also found that park visitation was a strong predictor of physical activity. People who visited parks were almost four times more likely to meet the 2020 WHO global recommendation for physical activity of 150 min of medium and vigorous physical activity per week. The findings suggested that parks and green spaces are important settings for physical activity. The results of this study can inform policymakers on how to plan and design active environments that are conducive to physical activity and health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Sustainable Healthy Lifestyles)

20 pages, 3649 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mathematical Models for the Vehicle Routing Problem by Considering Balancing Load and Customer Compactness

by Rodrigo Linfati, Fernando Yáñez-Concha and John Willmer Escobar

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12937; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912937 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3457

Abstract

The vehicle routing problem seeking to minimize the traveled distance and the deviation of the total workload is known as the vehicle routing problem with workload balance (WBVRP). In the WBVRP, several elements are considered: (i) the total distance or driving time, (ii) [...] Read more.

The vehicle routing problem seeking to minimize the traveled distance and the deviation of the total workload is known as the vehicle routing problem with workload balance (WBVRP). In the WBVRP, several elements are considered: (i) the total distance or driving time, (ii) the number of customers to be visited, and (iii) the total weight or amount of delivered goods. We have considered the WBVRP by adding a concept called customer compactness and the visual attractiveness of the routes. The WBVRP allows a similar workload for drivers to improve their well-being and social development. Unbalanced routes could generate high costs due to potential strikes by drivers seeking an equitable workload. We have proposed three mathematical formulations for solving the WBVRP by minimizing the customer compactness and the distance with and without considering workload balancing. The workload balancing is based on the deviation concerning the average load of the routes and considering waiting and driving time. We have tested the efficiency of the proposed models on a synthetic set of instances, analyzing different aspects such as depot location, customer location, and demand. The analysis of the results has been performed considering customer compactness and the visual attractiveness of the obtained solution. Computational experiments on generated random instances show the efficiency of the proposed approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Machine Learning for Sustainable Planning and Modelling in Future Smart Transportation System)

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22 pages, 967 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Customer Repurchase Intention through Cognitive and Affective Experience: An Insight of Food Delivery Applications

by Hadiqa Riaz, Vida Davidaviciene, Hassaan Ahmed and Ieva Meidute-Kavaliauskiene

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12936; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912936 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6014

Abstract

Mobile food order applications have become a phenomenal disruption in the food delivery industry. Customers demand better and more consistent experiences when making most purchases, including in food choices. Food delivery platforms have also been seen as the most convenient feature for customers [...] Read more.

Mobile food order applications have become a phenomenal disruption in the food delivery industry. Customers demand better and more consistent experiences when making most purchases, including in food choices. Food delivery platforms have also been seen as the most convenient feature for customers during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Although food delivery applications have been widely used, there is only a scarce literature that focuses on the factors that optimize user experience and repurchase intention. The current study attempted to explore customer repurchase intention, driven through cognitive and affective experience, towards food delivery applications. In the current study, we conceptualized and empirically confirmed an integrated model of antecedents for cognitive and affective experience and its influence on application satisfaction and repurchase intention. The model also incorporated situational factors (distance to restaurant and availability of time to visit restaurant) as a moderating variable. To test the proposed model, data were collected from 350 regular users of different food delivery applications. Subsequently, the data were analyzed using partial least square-structural equation modeling where the findings substantially supported the significance of cognitive and affective experience on application satisfaction and repurchase intention towards food delivery applications. In addition, the results of multigroup analysis (MGA) also confirmed the positive impact of situational factors as a moderator between application satisfactions and repurchase intention. The findings of the study provide important insights into how food delivery applications can accelerate cognitive and affective experience and use application satisfaction to encourage repeat buying intention. The results also offer guidance in designing and implementing effective approaches and strategies for food delivery retailers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Twin Transition: Impact, Challenges, Management)

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31 pages, 4868 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Practical Methodology for Building a Municipality-Led Renewable Energy Community: A Photovoltaics-Based Case Study for the Municipality of Hersonissos in Crete, Greece

by Emmanuel N. Efthymiou, Sofia Yfanti, George Kyriakarakos, Panagiotis L. Zervas, Panagiotis Langouranis, Konstantinos Terzis and George M. Stavrakakis

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12935; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912935 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3049

Abstract

This paper presents a practical methodology to facilitate decision-making for the development of a renewable energy community (REC) in the municipality of Hersonissos in Crete, Greece. The impact of energy sharing produced from renewables through direct or indirect citizen participation presents an enormous [...] Read more.

This paper presents a practical methodology to facilitate decision-making for the development of a renewable energy community (REC) in the municipality of Hersonissos in Crete, Greece. The impact of energy sharing produced from renewables through direct or indirect citizen participation presents an enormous opportunity to strengthen energy democracy and to alleviate energy poverty. Triggered by the latter being amongst the most essential goals for implementing policies towards low-carbon economies at the local level, the current study presents a step-by-step methodology to facilitate decision-making for building a municipality-led REC. Initially, potential sites and alternative sittings of photovoltaic (PV) plants are explored for detecting the optimal installation with respect to technical and possible legislative restrictions. The best REC business model is then selected based on a SWOT analysis, complemented with a detailed techno-economic analysis of the foreseen investments. According to the design calculations, the optimal PV plants/business-model option that emerged may achieve impressive environmental and economic benefits, i.e., reducing the municipality’s annual electricity-induced CO₂ emissions and electricity expenses by at least 68.40% and 594,461.54 €, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Sustainable Energy Markets)

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24 pages, 1543 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Inventory Transshipment and Missing-Data Treatment Using Improved Imputation-Level Adjustment for Efficient Cross-Filling

by Hang Thi Thanh Vu and Jeonghan Ko

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12934; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912934 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2208

Abstract

This research investigates an integrated problem of transshipment for cross-filling and imputation for missing demand data. Transshipment for cross-filling has proved effective in mitigating shortages with relatively low inventory, thus reducing resource consumption in inventory management. Although accurate demand data are critical for [...] Read more.

This research investigates an integrated problem of transshipment for cross-filling and imputation for missing demand data. Transshipment for cross-filling has proved effective in mitigating shortages with relatively low inventory, thus reducing resource consumption in inventory management. Although accurate demand data are critical for cross-filling decision making, some demand data are inevitably incomplete. These missing data should be treated for effective transshipment operations. Despite the importance, these missing data issues have not been adequately studied for transshipment problems. This paper addresses how transshipment can be conducted under missing demand conditions. A novel integrated problem is established to combine demand-data imputation processes and transshipment decisions. Imputation strategies and new algorithms suitable for transshipment are developed to handle missing demand data. Diverse demand and transshipment cases are analyzed for cost-effectiveness. The analysis uncovers that conventional straightforward imputation methods result in inferior transshipment decisions. The study also reveals that imputed values should be adjusted to appropriate levels for transshipment to be effective. The strong interplay between imputation processes and shortage prevention is also discovered for transshipment with missing demand. This study demonstrates how inventory transshipment can be carried out successfully with appropriate treatment of missing demand data in practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Operations and Supply Chain Management with Sustainability Considerations)

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16 pages, 1735 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Virtual Field Trips in Binational Collaborative Teacher Training: Opportunities and Challenges in the Context of Education for Sustainable Development

by Caroline Leininger-Frézal and Sandra Sprenger

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12933; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912933 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2630

Abstract

Virtual field trips (VFTs) are a way to overcome travel restrictions and continue to explore distant spaces, foreign issues, and learning opportunities. The intent of this article is to show how VFTs are used in learning geography in the context of education for [...] Read more.

Virtual field trips (VFTs) are a way to overcome travel restrictions and continue to explore distant spaces, foreign issues, and learning opportunities. The intent of this article is to show how VFTs are used in learning geography in the context of education for sustainable development (ESD). The goal is to develop a didactic approach to the use of virtual fieldwork in ESD with geography teachers in pre-service and in-service teacher training at two universities. This article has the following aims. The first is to explain what a VFT is from a theoretical and technical perspective, which raises questions about forms and tools. The second is to explain how a remote intercultural seminar was conceived and implemented to create virtual fieldwork. The third is to present the methodology on which this experimentation is based and to explore the opportunities and limitations of VFTs. The last is to present and discuss the results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Education in Teacher Training in Time of Pandemic)

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16 pages, 6242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study on Prevention and Control of Ground Fissures in Coal Mining Subsidence in Huaibei Plain of China

by Yi Cai, Hu Li, Jiaping Yan, He Huang, Yu Feng and Houxu Huang

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12932; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912932 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1588

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the effective prevention and control method of ground fissures in plain coal mining subsidence. Firstly, the model experiment was carried out, and then two typical working faces, working face A (WF_A) and working [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to explore the effective prevention and control method of ground fissures in plain coal mining subsidence. Firstly, the model experiment was carried out, and then two typical working faces, working face A (WF_A) and working face B (WF_B), in the Huaibei plain mining area were selected for the case study of the moisturization method. Model experimental results show that water content had a significant effect on cohesive soil fissure development, and the results of the case study show that the humidification method could effectively reduce the development degree of ground fissures. Therefore, this study provided a new approach for the effective prevention and control of ground fissures in plain coal mining subsidence. Full article

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20 pages, 2505 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy and Economic Analysis of Power Generation Using Residual Pressure of a Circulating Cooling Water System

by Peng Wang, Xingqi Luo, Jinling Lu, Qiyao Xue, Jiawei Gao and Senlin Chen

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12931; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912931 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1631

Abstract

With rising energy prices and the intensification of environmental problems, researchers have paid increasing attention to the recovery of the residual pressure energy of the industrial circulating cooling water system (CCWS) in hydraulic turbines. Taking the existing CCWS as the research object, this [...] Read more.

With rising energy prices and the intensification of environmental problems, researchers have paid increasing attention to the recovery of the residual pressure energy of the industrial circulating cooling water system (CCWS) in hydraulic turbines. Taking the existing CCWS as the research object, this study analyzes the feasibility of the transformation of the power generation using residual pressure from the perspectives of energy and economy. The energy flow analysis of the system reveals that the hydraulic optimization of the system should be carried out first to obtain the minimum total energy consumption of the pump and the turbine. Then, combined with the advantages of the traditional hydraulic optimization regulation strategy of the water supply network, a synchronous regulation strategy of the pipeline and the pump station is proposed. On the basis of the synchronous regulation strategy of the pipeline and the pump station, this research proposes a method for a comprehensive feasibility analysis of the CCWS’s power generation using residual pressure. Finally, taking a CCWS as an example, the simulation and comparison experiments of four transformations of the power generation using residual pressure are designed. The experiments not only prove the application value of the comprehensive analysis proposed in this research, but also prove the conclusion of the energy flow analysis mentioned above to be correct. Full article

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16 pages, 28955 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Land Use/Cover Change on Soil Wind Erosion in the Yellow River Basin since the 1990s

by Wenfeng Chi, Yuetian Wang, Yuxin Lou, Ya Na and Qiancheng Luo

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12930; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912930 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1656

Abstract

“Ecological conservation and high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin” is one of the fundamental national strategies related to national food security and ecological security in China. Evaluating the impact of land use/cover change (LUCC) on soil erosion is valuable to improving regional [...] Read more.

“Ecological conservation and high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin” is one of the fundamental national strategies related to national food security and ecological security in China. Evaluating the impact of land use/cover change (LUCC) on soil erosion is valuable to improving regional ecological environments and sustainable development. This study focused on the Yellow River Basin and used remote sensing data, the soil wind erosion modulus (SWEM) calculated with the revised wind erosion equation (RWEQ), to analyze the impact of regional scale LUCC from 1990 to 2018 on soil wind erosion. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) The total area of cultivated land, grass land, and unused land decreased, with a total reduction of 11,038.86 km²; total areas of forest land and built-up areas increased, increased by 2746.61 and 8356.77 km², respectively, with differences within the region in these LUCC trends at different periods. From 1990 to 2000, the area of cultivated land increased by 1958.36 km² and built-up land area increased by 1331.90 km². The areas of forestland, grass land, water area, and unused land decreased. From 2000 to 2010, the area of cultivated land and grass land decreased by 4553.77 and 2351.39 km², respectively, whereas the areas of forestland and built-up land significantly increased. From 2010 to 2018, the area of cultivated land and grass land continued to decrease, and the area of built-up land continued to increase. (2) Since the 1990s, the SWEM has generally declined (Slope_1990–2018 = −0.38 t/(ha·a)). Total amount of wind erosion in 2018 decreased by more than 50% compared with the amount in 1990. During this period, the intensity of wind erosion first increased and then decreased. In terms of the SWEM, 90.63% of the study area showed a decrease. (3) From 1990 to 2018, LUCC reduced the total amount of soil wind erosion by 15.57 million tons. From 1990 to 2000, the conversion of grass land/forest land to cultivated land and the expansion of desert resulted in a significant increase in soil wind erosion. From 2000 to 2018, the amount of soil wind erosion decreased at a rate of about 1.22 million tons/year, and the total amount of soil wind erosion decreased by 17.8921 million tons. During this period, the contribution rate of ecological programs (e.g., conversion of cultivated land to forest land and grass land, ecological engineering construction projects, etc.) to reduction of regional soil wind erosion was 59.13%, indicating that ecological programs have a positive role in reducing soil wind erosion intensity. The sustainable development of the ecological environment of the Yellow River Basin should be continued through strengthening ecological restoration and protection, to further consolidate gains made in this fragile ecosystem. This study provides scientific and technological support and relevant policy recommendations for the sustainable development of the Yellow River ecosystem under global change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Desertification Control and Sustainable Land Management)

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29 pages, 2479 KiB

Open AccessHypothesis

Satisfaction Measurement in the Blended Learning System of the University: The Literacy Mediated-Discourses (LM-D) Framework

by Muharman Lubis, Muhammad Azani Hasibuan and Rachmadita Andreswari

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12929; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912929 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2900

Abstract

Effective incorporation of new technologies into the education system has become a basic need in today’s globalized world, especially in adapting life to the new normal, which is seen by an increase in online learning. Thus, a blended learning system (BLS) becomes the [...] Read more.

Effective incorporation of new technologies into the education system has become a basic need in today’s globalized world, especially in adapting life to the new normal, which is seen by an increase in online learning. Thus, a blended learning system (BLS) becomes the alternative solution to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the online learning system by adding certain characteristics from the traditional approach to the online learning system. Therefore, the educational institution still has reluctance to adopt this kind of system as a means to deliver knowledge to the student due to several reasons, such as remote effects, learning progress assessment, alignment of the course roadmap to learning strategy, self-paced environment support, retaining lecturer authenticity, quantifying informal learning, and engagement of the student community. Thus, this study wants to investigate factors that influence the satisfaction of students in terms of using mediated communication consisting of the modules, the channels, and the lecturers as the component to evaluate the understanding of literacy within offline and online classes. In fact, satisfaction is a threshold target for the BLS contribution in bringing the discourses aligned with the demands as well as delivering necessary value for the related users. Interestingly, the results showed Computer Self-Efficacy and Expectation of Quality have valid and reliable value as well significancy within the proposed model. Full article

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18 pages, 744 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Soil Properties, Growth Yield, and Physiochemical Properties of Sunflower Seeds and Oils

by Nurah M. Alzamel, Eman M. M. Taha, Abeer A. A. Bakr and Naglaa Loutfy

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12928; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912928 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 6811

Abstract

Sunflower is the most important source of edible oil and fourth-largest oilseed crop in the world. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of using two organic fertilizers from various sources (compost coupled with biofertilizer (CCB), filter mud cake (FMC)) [...] Read more.

Sunflower is the most important source of edible oil and fourth-largest oilseed crop in the world. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of using two organic fertilizers from various sources (compost coupled with biofertilizer (CCB), filter mud cake (FMC)) and comparing them to conventional inorganic fertilizers in their effect on the quality of sunflower seeds, sunflower oil, and soil properties. The data showed that the highest value of dry weight, plant height, disk dry weight in addition to chlorophyll content, and phenolic secondary metabolites in oil was measured after the application of inorganic fertilizer, while the use of organic fertilizer contributed to a substantial increase in the production yield of sunflower seeds, oil, and a high stalk yield compared with inorganic treatment. Oils produced from organic fertilizer (CCB and FMC) gave higher blue color values than inorganic ones and the most transparent oil was inorganic while the organic treatments produced darkest oils. The results for chemical composition of sunflower seeds showed nonsignificant differences for protein and ash among all treatments while a significant difference with regard to oil content was recorded, in which the FMC recorded the highest oil content followed by compost (CCB), and finally came the inorganic treatment. Organic fertilizers are a valuable source of organic material and nutrients essential for plants and can be safely used for soil, crops, and the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Bioactives and Ingredients from Agri-Food Wastes)

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17 pages, 1076 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study of the Relationship between Marketing and Investment in Technology Development in Transport Company

by Darius Bazaras, Margarita Išoraitė and Kristina Vaičiūtė

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12927; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912927 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2036

Abstract

The article examines road transport technological development processes through the prism of marketing. Technological development alternatives of road transport companies were analysed and evaluated according to the influence of marketing on the development and competitiveness of the company’s services. During the structural and [...] Read more.

The article examines road transport technological development processes through the prism of marketing. Technological development alternatives of road transport companies were analysed and evaluated according to the influence of marketing on the development and competitiveness of the company’s services. During the structural and technological development analysis, the marketing factors determining the components of the technological development process were determined. The analysis of scientific literature sources revealed the level of scientific problem research, which is associated with the notion that technology development is influenced by consumer demand, digital transformation, data availability, and complex processes in the logistics supply chain. When compiling the expert evaluation questionnaire, the criteria of the influence of marketing factors on the development of road transport technologies and the quality of the transport company’s vehicles were singled out. The research reveals that elements of the marketing strategy of transportation companies are elastically related to personalised customer expectations and automated customer choice tracking capabilities. The results can also include quick response to troubleshooting, CO₂ reduction measures, ensuring process continuity, improved safety, and demand planning. The article’s scientific novelty has been achieved by determining new elements of interaction between marketing and technology development in the transport company. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Intersection of Product Quality and Consumer Behavior)

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22 pages, 12521 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Financial Stability and Economic Activity in China: Based on Mixed-Frequency Spillover Method

by Xuan Lv, Menggang Li and Yingjie Zhang

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12926; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912926 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1871

Abstract

To improve financial sustainability and promote economic stability, it is important to understand the intricate relationship between finance and macroeconomy. Thus, focusing on financial stress and macroeconomic sectors, this paper investigates macro-financial spillovers in China. First, we develop a high-frequency financial stress index [...] Read more.

To improve financial sustainability and promote economic stability, it is important to understand the intricate relationship between finance and macroeconomy. Thus, focusing on financial stress and macroeconomic sectors, this paper investigates macro-financial spillovers in China. First, we develop a high-frequency financial stress index based on eight daily financial indicators to measure the stability of China’s financial markets. Through event identification, we find that China’s Financial Stress Index can effectively reflect the stress situation of China’s financial market. Then, given that the traditional co-frequency method fails to deal with financial stress index and macroeconomic data with different frequencies, we employ the mixed-frequency spillover method to evaluate macro-financial spillovers to examine the connectedness between China’s financial market and the real side of the economy. We find that financial stress is the leading net risk output and primarily affects the loan sector; deterioration of economic conditions can lead to more apparent fluctuations in spillover effects, with spillovers from financial stress to others being the most susceptible; within the sample, the 2015 stock crash, U.S.–China trade friction, and COVID-19 have the most impact on macro-financial spillover effects. In addition, we track the results of different risk events on spillover effects across sectors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Macroprudential Policy, Monetary Policy, and Financial Sustainability)

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17 pages, 1349 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Sustainable Development and Strategic Approaches for Contemporary Higher Education

by Ming-Yuan Hsieh

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12925; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912925 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 1844

Abstract

Due to the increasing appearance of global contagious diseases such as COVID-19, the goal of this research is to directly and explicitly advance the learning motivation, interests, and performance of online course participants into developing sustainable development and strategic approaches to discover the [...] Read more.

Due to the increasing appearance of global contagious diseases such as COVID-19, the goal of this research is to directly and explicitly advance the learning motivation, interests, and performance of online course participants into developing sustainable development and strategic approaches to discover the effective solution of the research question: how to provide the most effective online courses of sustainable development strategy for contemporary higher education in order to advance the student’s learning motivation, confidence, and desires? This is accomplished by integrating the three briefest analytical aspects of the Social Learning Theory, the main theoretical philosophies of Learning Community, and 10 core technological features to determine the most critical core determinants. Beyond the complex measured results, the most valuable conclusions were: (1) the highest Standardized Comparative Weight Scales (SCWS) was located in the Publicity Philosophy for contemporary online higher education sustainable development strategy, which meant the first hypothesis was accepted and the second and third hypotheses were denied. Hence, the Publicity Philosophy (PP) of the learning community directly and effectively advanced the contemporary online higher education sustainable development strategy for educational institutions as the best solution to the research question in order to achieve the main research objective. (2) Continuously, in detail, the PP of the learning community was directly and effectively enforced by the Professionalization Technology Feature of Course Function. This directly indicated that most online course participants focus on the professionalized technological features in the system operation, such as friendly operational platforms for easy uploads, convenient downloads of online course information, and real-time news during online courses at higher education institutions. Significantly, the aggregated technology in group discussions or teamwork assignments and the complete and fair evaluation of online course technological system can facilitate collaborative lesson preparation and lesson observation of the PP of the learning community in order to advance online course interests and learning performance to be the sustainable development strategic approach in contemporary higher education era. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Approach and Policy in Higher Education for Sustainability)

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17 pages, 2471 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Osmosis and Thermo-Priming on Salinity Stress Tolerance in Vigna radiata L.

by Saqib Ali, Sami Ullah, Muhammad Nauman Khan, Wisal Muhammad Khan, Sarah Abdul Razak, Sana Wahab, Aqsa Hafeez, Sajid Ali Khan Bangash and Peter Poczai

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12924; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912924 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 2837

Abstract

A plant’s response to osmotic stress is a complex phenomenon that causes many abnormal symptoms due to limitations in growth and development or even the loss of yield. The current research aimed to analyze the agronomical, physiological, and biochemical mechanisms accompanying the acquisition [...] Read more.

A plant’s response to osmotic stress is a complex phenomenon that causes many abnormal symptoms due to limitations in growth and development or even the loss of yield. The current research aimed to analyze the agronomical, physiological, and biochemical mechanisms accompanying the acquisition of salt resistance in the Vigna radiata L. variety ‘Ramzan’ using seed osmo- and thermopriming in the presence of PEG-4000 and 4 °C under induced salinity stresses of 100 and 150 mM NaCl. Seeds were collected from CCRI, Nowshera, and sowing was undertaken in triplicate at the Department of Botany, Peshawar University, during the 2018–2019 growing season. Rhizospheric soil pH (6.0), E.C (2.41 ds/m), field capacity, and moisture content level were estimated in the present study. We observed from the estimated results that the agronomic characteristics, i.e., shoot fresh weight and shoot dry weight in T9 (4oC + 150 mM NaCl), root fresh weight and root dry weight in T4 (PEG + 100 mM NaCl), shoot moisture content in T5 (PEG + 100 mM NaCl), and root moisture content in T6 (PEG + 150 mM NaCl) were the highest, followed by the lowest in T1 (both shoot and root fresh weights) and T2 (shoot and root dry weights). Similarly, the shoot moisture content was the maximum in T5 and the minimum in T6, and root moisture was the highest in T6. We observed from the estimated results that agronomical parameters including dry masses (T4, T6, T4), leaf area index, germination index, leaf area, total biomass, seed vigor index under treatment T9, and relative water content and water use efficiency during T5 and T6 were the highest. Plant physiological traits such as proline, SOD enhanced by T1, carotenoids in treatment T2, and chlorophyll and protein levels were the highest under treatment T4, whereas sugar and POD were highest under treatments T7 and T8. The principal component analysis enclosed 63.75% of the total variation among all biological components. These estimated results confirmed the positive resistance by Vigna radiata during osmopriming (PEG) and thermopriming (4 °C) on most of the features with great tolerance under a low-saline treatment such as T4 (PEG), T5 (PEG + 100 mM NaCl), T7 (4 °C), and T8 (4 °C + 100 mM NaCl), while it was susceptible in the case of T6 (PEG + 150 mM NaCl) and T9 (4 °C + 150 mM NaCl) to high salt application. We found that the constraining impact of several priming techniques improved low salinity, which was regarded as economically inexpensive and initiated numerous metabolic processes in plants, hence decreasing germination time. The current study will have major applications for combatting the salinity problem induced by climate change in Pakistan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mitigate Hunger through Enhancing Plant Resistance to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses)

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14 pages, 683 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 Lockdown Stress and the Mental Health of College Students: A Cross-Sectional Survey in China

by Ziao Hu, Jun Li, Ling Pan and Xiaoying Zhang

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12923; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912923 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2562

Abstract

To prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, countries around the world adopted varying degrees of lockdown. The lockdowns restricted the freedom of college students, which led to stress and mental health issues. This study constructed a mediating model to explore the relationship [...] Read more.

To prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, countries around the world adopted varying degrees of lockdown. The lockdowns restricted the freedom of college students, which led to stress and mental health issues. This study constructed a mediating model to explore the relationship between COVID-19 lockdown stress and Chinese college students’ mental health; the mediating role of fear of missing out (FoMO) was also investigated. A 7-item COVID-19 student stress questionnaire (CSSQ), a 6-item mental health scale, and a 10-item FoMO scale were distributed among 695 college students who experienced lockdown in China. The results showed that COVID-19 lockdown stress was significantly and negatively correlated with mental health, significantly and positively correlated with FoMO, and FoMO was significantly and negatively correlated with mental health. COVID-19 lockdown stress significantly and negatively influenced Chinese college students’ mental health directly and indirectly via the complementary partial mediating effect of FoMO. The results intensify our comprehension of the influence of COVID-19 lockdown stress and mental health problems in Chinese college students and also provide practical suggestions for college educators to address such scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health in the Remote Work Era)

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18 pages, 3032 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect and Mechanism of Economic Circulation in the Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yellow River: Multiregional Input–Output Model and Industrial Complex Network Approaches

by Chong Yin, Yingxin Cui and Yue Liu

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12922; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912922 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2233

Abstract

China has implemented the Yellow River strategy, and the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River (MLYR) play an important role in promoting the sustainable economic growth of China. However, the economic circulation of the MLYR is constricted by the imbalance and [...] Read more.

China has implemented the Yellow River strategy, and the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River (MLYR) play an important role in promoting the sustainable economic growth of China. However, the economic circulation of the MLYR is constricted by the imbalance and heterogeneity in the economy in the regions, and it is necessary to explore how economic circulation and sustainable development in the MLYR can be improved. In this study, based on the multiregional input–output tables for 2012 and 2017, we developed a MLYR multiregional input–output model; applied indicators, such as intraregional multiplier, interregional feedback, and spillover, to measure economic circulation effects; further developed the industrial circular network; and designed indicators of cycle length distribution, average cycle correlation, influence of the industrial cycle, and interactions of the weighted cycle to analyze the industrial circulation mechanism in the MLYR. We also analyzed the spatial and industrial structures of the economic circulation flows. The results show that economic linkages have been strengthened to a certain extent, but the imbalance in economic circulation is still prominent, and the imbalanced circular effects are determined by the characteristics of the cycles in the MLYR. The empirical findings contribute to several aspects of the theory of imbalanced economic development and provide an important perspective on, and feasible path for, achieving economic development. We suggest that policymakers should build a multi-dimensional innovation cooperation system, improve the digital connectivity of regions, and promote the green and low-carbon development of industry and the application of new energy technologies to achieve balanced, common, and sustainable economic development in the MLYR. Full article

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