Comprehensive Research Framework Research Articles

Perceived accessibility matters: Unveiling key urban parameters through traditional and technology-driven participation methods

The demand for innovative solutions to address urban complexities, with accessibility being crucial for sustainable environments, is growing globally. As demographic shifts and disability prevalence evolve, understanding spatial dynamics affecting accessibility becomes urgent. The research hypothesis suggests that investigating both physical and perceived accessibility realms reveals critical insights into challenges individuals face in public spaces. This study explores public participation methods of different nature to evaluate their effectiveness and complementarity in portraying perceived accessibility in urban spaces. A multi-method approach, integrating participant observation tools like self-completion questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with non-participant technology-driven data sources like Foursquare, Twitter, and Google Places, was employed. The analysis focused on two areas in Alicante, Spain. Findings emerge in four phases: (1) identifying perceived accessible public spaces via questionnaires, (2) discerning influential parameters from interviews, (3) conducting a comprehensive analysis incorporating quantitative and qualitative methods, and (4) establishing correlations between parameters gathered through the methods. The results underscore the importance of diverse public participation methods in urban planning, offering a comprehensive framework for future research to improve accessibility and inclusivity in urban environments. Understanding the relationship between physical urban features and citizens' perceptions advocates targeted interventions for improved accessibility and socially inclusive environments.

Assessing the Socio-Economic Impacts of Solar Home Systems on Chingad, Surkhet

This study assesses the multifaceted socio-economic impacts of Solar Home Systems (SHS) on the remote community of Chingad, Surkhet. Employing a comprehensive research framework, we investigate the extent to which the adoption of SHS has influenced the livelihoods, economic activities, and social dynamics within the community. Through a combination of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, we analyzed the economic benefits, social empowerment, and environmental sustainability associated with the integration of solar energy. The limitations of the study included its focus on Chindgad-5, Surkhet. This research employed a descriptive-analytic approach within an exploratory research design. In the study area, a total of 386 households were included, with 188 utilizing solar energy in December 2023 AD from field observation. The research focused on a subset of 36 purposely selected solar home system users. Energy consumption patterns varied among ethnic groups and social classes, and universal electricity access was not observed in the study area. The study integrated both descriptive and exploratory elements to comprehensively address its objectives, utilizing a combination of primary and secondary data. For policymakers, development professionals, and other stakeholders engaged in sustainable energy projects in similar circumstances, the findings offer insightful information about the complex relationships that are present between solar technology and the local socioeconomic fabric. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers, energy planners, and development organizations working towards sustainable and inclusive energy solutions in rural Nepal. The successful integration of SHS not only addresses energy needs but also contributes to economic development and improved living conditions in off-grid communities.

Voltage-Dependent Anion Channels in Male Reproductive Cells: Players in Healthy Fertility?

Male infertility affects nearly 50% of infertile couples, with various underlying causes, including endocrine disorders, testicular defects, and environmental factors. Spermatozoa rely on mitochondrial oxidative metabolism for motility and fertilization, with mitochondria playing a crucial role in sperm energy production, calcium regulation, and redox balance. Voltage-dependent anion channels (VDACs), located on the outer mitochondrial membrane, regulate energy and metabolite exchange, which are essential for sperm function. This review offers an updated analysis of VDACs in the male reproductive system, summarizing recent advances in understanding their expression patterns, molecular functions, and regulatory mechanisms. Although VDACs have been widely studied in other tissues, their specific roles in male reproductive physiology still remain underexplored. Special attention is given to the involvement of VDAC2/3 isoforms, which may influence mitochondrial function in sperm cells and could be implicated in male fertility disorders. This update provides a comprehensive framework for future research in reproductive biology, underscoring the significance of VDACs as a molecular link between mitochondrial function and male fertility.

Groundwater pollution by nitrate and salinization in Morocco: a comprehensive review

ABSTRACT Groundwater plays a critical role in supporting a wide range of human activities. However, it faces substantial challenges due to the growing demand for water and reduced precipitation resulting from climate change. Various studies have revealed the high vulnerability of Morocco's groundwater to contamination from multiple anthropogenic sources. This review focuses on assessing nitrate and salinization pollution in Moroccan groundwater, with a specific emphasis on the Gharb region. A comprehensive analysis of research conducted from 2010 to 2023, using reputable databases, underscores the pressing need to address groundwater pollution in Morocco, especially in the Gharb region. The results highlight the significant challenges faced by Morocco's groundwater resources. Agricultural practices and poorly designed irrigation systems are identified as primary contributors to nitrate contamination. Additionally, salinization in the region is influenced by factors such as seawater intrusion, hydrogeological characteristics, and irrigation practices. An integrated approach, combining laboratory analysis, remote sensing, geospatial tools, modeling, and geographic information systems technology, has proven to be effective in addressing the complex issues of assessing groundwater pollution due to nitrate and salinization. This survey presents a comprehensive framework for future research and decision-making processes aimed at achieving sustainable water resource management, preserving the groundwater heritage and safeguarding public health.

Comprehensive evaluation of CCUS technology: A case study of China's first million-tonne CCUS-EOR project

CCUS, an emerging technology for reducing carbon emission, plays a crucial role in achieving the goal of carbon neutrality. CCUS technology exemplified by CO2 enhanced oil recovery (EOR) is gradually progressing from project demonstration to large-scale application. However, the commercial application still faces uncertainties in economic cost, energy efficiency and environmental benefits. This paper takes China's first million-tonne CCUS-EOR project (Qilu Petrochemical-Shengli Oilfield CCUS-EOR project) as an example, and establishes a comprehensive research framework for evaluating CCUS from the three dimensions of energy, environment, and economy, based on economic viability, energy input-output analysis, and carbon input-output analysis. The results demonstrate that during the project lifecycle, when the average oil price is $90/bbl, the project's NPV is $56.09 million, the project's IRR is 13.4 %, the payback period is 8.34 years, and the threshold oil price for the project to be economically profitable is $81.52/bbl. Furthermore, the Energy Return on Investment (EROI) of the project is 9.09, which considerably superior to that of the Shengli Oilfield's non-EOR, and the net energy output is approximately 18,472.57 kilobarrels. The Carbon Return on Investment (CROI) of the project is 4.12, with significant environmental benefits, and the cumulative net carbon emission reduction is approximately 8078.55 kilotonnes. Furthermore, the trends in EROI and CROI of the CCUS-EOR project demonstrate nearly opposite trajectories. The variation trends in EROI emerge N-shaped curve, while that of CROI emerge S-shaped curve. In summary, the Qilu Petrochemical-Shengli Oilfield CCUS-EOR project exhibits notable advantages in terms of energy efficiency and environmental benefits. However, the threshold oil price for triggering economic profitability is relatively high, which may pose certain economic risks to investors during periods of low oil price.

Impact of emotional intelligence on SME employees’ performance: Mediating role of organizational citizenship behavior

This study delves into the intricate correlation between emotional intelligence and employee performance within the dynamic setting of Saudi small and medium enterprises. Acknowledging the increasing importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace, this study examines how emotional intelligence influences employee performance, with particular attention to the mediating role of organizational citizenship behavior. Employing a comprehensive research framework, the study integrates quantitative methods to analyze data collected from 248 employees across various Saudi-based small and medium enterprises. The findings indicate that high emotional intelligence enhances employee performance, with organizational citizenship behavior serving as a crucial mediator, strengthening the positive impact of emotional intelligence on performance. The results demonstrated a robust positive correlation with organizational citizenship behavior (β = 0.719***) and a moderate positive correlation with employee performance (β = 0.314***). In addition, organizational citizenship behavior played a significant positive mediating role between employee intelligence and employee performance (β = 0.397***). This suggests a nuanced interplay among emotional intelligence, organizational citizenship behavior, and overall employee performance within the specific context of Saudi small and medium enterprises. Acknowledgment The authors extend their appreciation to the Deanship of Scientific Research at Northern Border University, Arar, KSA, for funding this research work through project number NBU-FFR- 1502-03.

Unprecedented mechanical wave energy absorption observed in multifunctional bioinspired architected metamaterials

In practical engineering, noise and impact hazards are pervasive, indicating the pressing demand for materials that can absorb both sound and stress wave energy simultaneously. However, the rational design of such multifunctional materials remains a challenge. Herein, inspired by cuttlebone, we present bioinspired architected metamaterials with unprecedented sound-absorbing and mechanical properties engineered via a weakly-coupled design. The acoustic elements feature heterogeneous multilayered resonators, whereas the mechanical responses are based on asymmetric cambered cell walls. These metamaterials experimentally demonstrated an average absorption coefficient of 0.80 from 1.0 to 6.0 kHz, with 77% of the data points exceeding the desired 0.75 threshold, all with a compact 21 mm thickness. An absorptance-thickness map is devised for assessing the sound-absorption efficiency. The high-fidelity microstructure-based model reveals the air friction damping mechanism, with broadband behavior attributed to multimodal hybrid resonance. Empowered by the cambered design of cell walls, metamaterials shift catastrophic failure toward a progressive deformation mode characterized by stable stress plateaus and ultrahigh specific energy absorption of 50.7 J/g—a 558.4% increase over the straight-wall design. After the deformation mechanisms are elucidated, a comprehensive research framework for burgeoning acousto-mechanical metamaterials is proposed. Overall, our study broadens the horizon for multifunctional material design.

Common molecular basis of aging and cancer dynamics: complex interactions among age, diseases, external stressors, and environmental factors

There are incremental efforts to understand the multifaceted aspects of aging, particularly focusing on its biological interplay with various environmental stressors and diseases such as cancer. The concept of biological age, which is distinct from chronological age, and its importance in predicting disease onset and mortality patterns are emphasized. Furthermore, exploration of the reversible nature of biological aging under different stress conditions, such as surgery, pregnancy, and diseases such as cancer and coronavirus disease 2019, is intriguing. This narrative review attempts to address the potential impact of viral infections such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and the altered landscape of diseases such as cancer on biological aging and their interconnected relationships. Additionally, it also touches upon the influence of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence-driven machines, on aging dynamics, prompting further research in this area. This article may provide insight into a comprehensive framework for interdisciplinary research to better understand the complex interactions among age-related dynamics, diseases, external stressors, and environmental factors, with implications for future interventions and healthcare strategies.

Current status and perspectives in environmental oncology.

Cancer stands as a leading global cause of death, with its etiology characterized by complexity and multifaceted factors. Growing research indicates a strong correlation between environmental factors and cancer incidence, underscoring the critical importance of intervening in environmental risk factors to mitigate cancer occurrence. Despite this, specialized research institutions focusing on the intersection of environment and cancer remain scarce, with global investment in cancer prevention significantly trailing behind efforts in diagnosis and treatment. Against the backdrop of rapid global climate change, industrialization, urbanization, aging populations, and the globalization of lifestyles, we proposed the concept of Environmental Oncology (EO) to address these challenges. We discussed the rationale and necessity of developing EO and presented a comprehensive research framework focusing on cancer prevention and treatment. Future EO research will aim to identify cancer causes and implement early prevention strategies using advanced scientific technologies and methods. By emphasizing multidisciplinary collaboration and integrating molecular biology at the micro level, EO will explore the relationship between external and internal environments and cancer. EO will identify potential therapeutic targets by studying the pathways through which environmental exposures lead to carcinogenesis. EO will develop early warning systems and disseminate research findings by collecting big data, employing robust statistical models, and establishing research centers.

Collaborative governance in disaster management and sustainable development

AbstractThis review article highlights the outcomes of collaborative governance in disaster management and its correlation with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Of particular interests are the origins and emergence of scholarship, core themes discussed under the subject, global contexts reported in the studies, and empirical findings regarding the relationship between collaborative governance in disaster management and the SDGs. The findings indicate that the USA dominates in publications on collaborative governance in disaster management. The most reported areas include COVID‐19, general theory development, the role of nonprofits, policy development frameworks, and other disasters including Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The areas connected with the SDGs are grouped into three sections. The first section describes the study's focus on SDG 17, highlighting partnerships as pivotal for goal attainment; the second section examines the Sendai Framework's alignment with goals such as poverty eradication, urban resilience, climate action, and partnerships; while the third section addresses additional areas connected to foundational SDGs, outlining a comprehensive framework for collaborative governance research. The study concludes by proposing a research agenda for more research from multiple contexts and research on areas under a developmental agenda.

A hybrid approach to analysing large scale surveys: individual values, opinions and perceptions

High-dimensional large scale surveys enable broad research capabilities and potential insight. However, when dealing with the intrinsic complexity of social science, the underlying knowledge engineering process may play a critical role and require to consider the characteristics and peculiarities of a given problem in context. This study proposes an analysis framework based on clustering techniques, which have been applied to discover patterns among a number of abstracted features resulting from selected attributes of the World Values Survey (WVS). As an assumption, such features have been softly classified as values, opinions and perceptions, based on their theoretical likelihood to change along the time. From a more philosophical perspective, this work assumes hybrid practices as there is no pre-formulated theory but rather an attempt to discover patterns and new knowledge from data. Given the relatively manageable dimensionality of the input dataset, the feature selection has been performed according to an application-oriented approach (rather than driven by statistical analysis) to establish a more comprehensive and consistent research framework. Among the main findings, a symbiotic relationship between the perception of satisfaction and of financial stability, as well as between the perception of security and of happiness, in addition to more complex patterns involving traditional values (e.g. family and religion), politics and believes with an impact on society. Last but not least, despite its holistic focus, the study has allowed the identification of few research gaps and, therefore, potential further research direction in the broad domain of Social Sciences.

Preprocessing of Iris Images for BSIF-Based Biometric Systems: Binary Detected Edges and Iris Unwrapping.

This work presents a novel approach to enhancing iris recognition systems through a two-module approach focusing on low-level image preprocessing techniques and advanced feature extraction. The primary contributions of this paper include: (i) the development of a robust preprocessing module utilizing the Canny algorithm for edge detection and the circle-based Hough transform for precise iris extraction, and (ii) the implementation of Binary Statistical Image Features (BSIF) with domain-specific filters trained on iris-specific data for improved biometric identification. By combining these advanced image preprocessing techniques, the proposed method addresses key challenges in iris recognition, such as occlusions, varying pigmentation, and textural diversity. Experimental results on the Human-inspired Domain-specific Binarized Image Features (HDBIF) Dataset, consisting of 1892 iris images, confirm the significant enhancements achieved. Moreover, this paper offers a comprehensive and reproducible research framework by providing source codes and access to the testing database through the Notre Dame University dataset website, thereby facilitating further application and study. Future research will focus on exploring adaptive algorithms and integrating machine learning techniques to improve performance across diverse and unpredictable real-world scenarios.

Architecture Preliminary Design and Trade-Off Optimization of Stratospheric Airship Based on MBSE

System architecture design is crucial for forward design in aerostat system engineering, yet a comprehensive research framework has been lacking. This paper presents a new method for stratospheric airship architecture preliminary design and optimization trade-off, grounded in Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) theory. Firstly, a requirement analysis for a stratospheric airship is conducted using SysML, leading to the analysis and acquisition of the airship’s mission architecture design. Additionally, a multidisciplinary coupling simulation platform is developed with MATLAB, and the architecture preliminary design’s Pareto front is derived using the NSGA-II algorithm. Finally, based on the Pareto optimization set, the TOPSIS algorithm is applied to derive the optimal architecture preliminary design scheme for the airship. The optimization results validate the accuracy of the architecture preliminary design obtained from the requirement analysis, the reliability of the multidisciplinary coupling simulation platform, and the feasibility of the optimization algorithms. This comprehensive study spans the requirement analysis to the optimal architecture scheme, providing theoretical reference and design guidance for the forward design of airship systems engineering.

Core competencies for digital leadership development: a perspective from the lens of paradox theory

PurposeIn an era marked by artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), this study presents a research paradigm centered on nurturing fundamental skills crucial for effective digital leadership in a paradoxical age where leaders are ambitious as well as skeptical for the adoption of such technologies. This study offers a strategic framework to seamlessly integrate diverse technologies into leadership development; the objective is to bridge the divide between theoretical understanding and practical implementation, especially through the lens of paradox theory.Design/methodology/approachThis conceptual study delineates essential attributes that digital leaders must cultivate, drawing insights from the corpus of literature encompassing leadership, technology and organizational advancement. Synthesizing theoretical perspectives, the study proposes a comprehensive research framework that provides a systematic approach to harnessing the potential of AI, VR and AR to enhance leadership competencies. This conceptual study significantly contributes to paradox theory through method of “theory adaptation” as elaborated in the literature.FindingsThe study unveils a spectrum of foundational proficiencies, including technological acumen, adaptability, strategic acumen, effective communication, collaborative aptitude and ethical acumen, among others. These competencies underscore the multifaceted skill set required of digital leaders. To adeptly traverse the intricate digital terrain, foster innovation and align technological advancements with organizational objectives, these proficiencies are imperative for digital leaders to possess.Originality/valueThe distinctiveness of this study lies in its all-encompassing approach to digital leadership development by offering a paradoxical perspective and hence making a contribution to the body of knowledge for paradox theory. By amalgamating AI, VR and AR into a cohesive framework, the study enhances the comprehension of how these technologies collaboratively nurture leaders capable of cultivating organizational triumph in the digital age. This proposed paradigm serves as a bridge between cutting-edge digital technology usage and leadership proficiency paradox, furnishing pragmatic insights to benefit both academic researchers and industry practitioners.

Transforming E-Commerce Logistics: Sustainable Practices through Autonomous Maritime and Last-Mile Transportation Solutions

The logistics landscape in e-commerce is undergoing a profound transformation toward sustainability and autonomy. This paper explores the implementation of autonomous maritime and last-mile transportation solutions to optimize the entire logistics chain from factory to customer. Building on the lessons learned from the maritime industry’s digital transformation, the study identifies key features and proposes a forward-looking autonomous maritime and last-mile transportation system. Emphasizing the role of geospatial technologies, the proposed system employs GIS-based electronic route optimization for efficient goods delivery, integrating onboard and ashore GIS-based sensors for enhanced location precision. A case study was built to analyze the implementation of autonomous means of transport along the route of a product from factory to customer. The integration of autonomous systems shows substantial improvements in logistics performance. Synchromodal logistics and smart steaming techniques can be utilized to optimize transportation routes, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and emissions. The findings reveal that autonomous maritime and last-mile transport systems can significantly enhance the efficiency, flexibility and sustainability of e-commerce logistics. The study emphasizes the need for advanced technological integration and provides a comprehensive framework for future research and practical applications in the logistics industry.

Unfolding the downloads of datasets: A multifaceted exploration of influencing factors

Scientific data are essential to advancing scientific knowledge and are increasingly valued as scholarly output. Understanding what drives dataset downloads is crucial for their effective dissemination and reuse. Our study, analysing 55,473 datasets from 69 data repositories, identifies key factors driving dataset downloads, focusing on interpretability, reliability, and accessibility. We find that while lengthy descriptive texts can deter users due to complexity and time requirements, readability boosts a dataset’s appeal. Reliability, evidenced by factors like institutional reputation and citation counts of related papers, also significantly increases a dataset’s attractiveness and usage. Additionally, our research shows that open access to datasets increases their downloads and amplifies the importance of interpretability and reliability. This indicates that easy access enhances the overall attractiveness and usage of datasets in the scholarly community. By emphasizing interpretability, reliability, and accessibility, this study offers a comprehensive framework for future research and guides data management practices toward ensuring clarity, credibility, and open access to maximize the impact of scientific datasets.

Logistics and supply chain management in the belt and road initiative: research opportunities and future challenges

ABSTRACT Since the establishment of the BRI in 2013, it has attracted much attention in logistics and supply chain research. Since previous studies were mostly limited to narrow topics such as the economic impact of the BRI, this study has formulated a comprehensive research framework from multiple perspectives. From the Web of Science Core Collection database, 146 articles were selected for a structured literature review, and we perform a descriptive and in-depth content analysis. To promote comprehensive research, we develop a research framework with five categories: transportation planning, sustainable development, global value chain development, infrastructure construction, and subject governance. Then, according to the logic of ‘why–what–how’, we distinguish the advantages, obstacles, and promotional measures in the development of global logistics and supply chains based on the BRI over the past decade, and then present challenges and propose future research agenda.

Exploring the Nature and Evolution of Communication Design: Perspectives from China

The concept of communication design has emerged as a focal point of discussion within the design discourse in China, prompting diverse perspectives on its essence and scope. Within this discourse, divergent viewpoints have surfaced, with some advocating for the classification of communication design as a distinct methodology within the broader framework of design studies, while others advocate for its recognition as an interdisciplinary domain, bridging diverse realms of design expertise.At the crux of this ongoing debate lies the fundamental question of whether communication design primarily concerns the 'design of communication' or the 'communication of design.'? This conceptual ambiguity underscores the complexity inherent in defining and delineating the parameters of communication design within the Chinese context. Against this backdrop, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of the evolving discourse on communication design, examining its current manifestations, and speculating on future trajectories. This paper delves into the evolving discourse on communication design, despite the foundational contributions, communication design remains relatively uncharted territory in the Chinese academic landscape, lacking a universally accepted definition and comprehensive research framework. This paper underscores the imperative of clarifying the contours of communication design within the Chinese academic sphere, emphasizing its potential to enrich the discourse on design theory and practice. By elucidating its unique attributes and theoretical underpinnings, this study contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the evolution and consolidation of communication design as a distinct discipline in China.

A Water–Energy–Carbon–Economy Framework to Assess Resources and Environment Sustainability: A Case Study of the Yangtze River Economic Belt, China

Developing a comprehensive research framework that integrates the water–energy–carbon (WEC) system with economic development is crucial to fostering sustainable development. However, common evaluation indicators for sustainable development fail to cover the most up-to-date climate objectives and policies comprehensively and also lack a decoupling analysis between various subsystems and economic development. By incorporating the Tapio model and the coupling coordination degree model (CCDM), we introduce a novel water–energy–carbon–economy (WECE) framework to evaluate the sustainability of regional resources and the environment. Taking the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) as an example, we have constructed a comprehensive water–energy–carbon (WEC) indicator system that aligns with China’s sustainable development objectives and its most recent carbon emission reduction strategies. Employing the indicator system, we conducted an assessment of the sustainable development within the YREB from 2010 to 2019. The results reveal that the YREB has yet to achieve full decoupling between water use, energy consumption, carbon emissions, and economic development, with a prevailing trend towards weak decoupling (WD). The WEC system within the YREB exhibited coordination from 2010 to 2019. Notably, only the WEC system in Sichuan attained good coordination in 2019, indicating the imperative for more extensive initiatives in resource and environmental development to realize sustainable objectives. Finally, we delve into the driving mechanism of the coupling coordination degree (CCD) of the WEC system. Our findings suggest that, from the perspective of system collaborative management, the integrated approach of the WEC system offers superior benefits compared to individual management components. Consequently, it is imperative to bolster collaboration and institute a comprehensive set of policies to ensure sustainable development within the region.

Comparative Analysis of Impulse Buying Behaviour Across Retail Channels: A Study of Physical Stores, E-commerce Websites and Mobile Shopping Apps

"The nuanced dynamics of impulse buying behaviour across diverse retail channels unveil a fascinating interplay between consumer psychology and the unique attributes of physical stores, e-commerce platforms, and mobile shopping apps. Delving into the intricate landscape of impulse buying behaviour across three prominent retail channels, namely physical brick-and-mortar stores, e-commerce websites, and mobile shopping applications, sheds light on how retail environments shape and influence impulsive buying behaviours. Employing a comprehensive research framework that encompasses the realms of behavioural psychology, astute marketing strategies and the nuanced analysis of digital interfaces unveils the underpinnings that drive impulsive purchases in each distinct retail environment. By means of meticulous data collection and rigorous scrutiny, this research discerns the unique determinants of impulsive buying behaviour, encompassing consumer motivations, environmental cues and the pivotal role of technology becomes apparent. The comparative analysis not only enriches understanding of the impulse buying phenomenon but also provides actionable insights for retailers and marketers keen on creating bespoke strategies tailored to the specific attributes of each retail channel. Presenting realistic implications for businesses seeking to optimize consumer engagement and bolster sales in today’s multifaceted retail landscape, the recognition of the varied triggers behind impulse buying across different platforms empowers retailers to cultivate precision-targeted approaches that deeply resonate with their intended audience, thereby amplifying the efficacy of their marketing endeavours. Undertaking an exhaustive comparative analysis of impulsive buying behaviour"