Efficiency In Different Regions Research Articles

CO2 emissions efficiency and marginal abatement costs of the regional transportation sectors in China

Nowadays, evaluating CO2 emissions efficiency and its marginal abatement cost in transportation sectors has been a hot topic. However, while evaluating the CO2 marginal abatement cost using data envelopment analysis approach, the weak disposability of CO2 may imply positive abatement cost, which undoubtedly violates our common sense. To obtain non-positive marginal abatement cost, CO2 emissions should be treated as an input. To reconcile this contradiction, this paper intends to propose a global, directional distance function model based on previous study to investigate the productivity, economic efficiency, CO2 emissions efficiency, and marginal abatement cost of the China’s regional transportation sectors during 2007–2012. The results show that: (1) the productivity, economic efficiency and CO2 emissions efficiency of different regions differ widely. More specifically, the coastal areas of south China perform better than the other areas in terms of productivity, economic efficiency, and CO2 emissions efficiency. (2) Generally, the economic efficiency is greater than CO2 emissions efficiency, which is relatively low in most areas. (3) A negative correlation is found between CO2 emissions efficiency and itsmarginal abatement cost. For a 1% increase in CO2 emissions efficiency, the CO2 marginal abatement cost declines by 102 Yuan (in 2004 constant price). The results imply that improving CO2 emissions efficiency plays an important role in marginal abatement cost reduction, and it also provides us a new approach to reduce abatement cost besides the technical progress.

Environmental efficiency analysis of China's regional industry: a data envelopment analysis (DEA) based approach

China's economic has got remarkable achievements during the past 30 years, which has brought tremendous pressure on natural resources and serious environmental pollution at the same time. In this paper, we aim to make environmental efficiency analysis of China's regional industry. Data envelopment analysis (DEA) method is incorporated and the slacks-based measure (SBM) model considering undesirable outputs is introduced to measure the environmental efficiency of different regions. Big data theory is introduced in the collection and selection of the input and output data of the regions. Further, we evaluate the environmental efficiencies of China's industry using data from 2008 to 2012. The results show that apart from several developed provinces, the environmental efficiencies of China's industry are generally low. And the environmental efficiencies of the regions did not show any increasing trend through the past 5 years. Additionally, lager differences exist in environmental efficiencies between the regions in China. Finally, we suggest the Chinese government to focus on the low environmental efficiencies and the unbalanced development of its regional industry.

Chinese National Scenic Areas’ Tourism Efficiency: Multi-scale Fluctuation, Prediction and Optimization

The tourism efficiency in scenic areas is influenced by multi-factor joined effects, presenting multi-scale fluctuation characteristics in temporal terms and regional differences in spatial terms. This paper, by adopting the data envelopment analysis (DEA) method and Bootstrap-DEA model, calculates their tourism and decomposition efficiency. Then, based on methods of empirical mode decomposition, wavelet decomposition and Morlet wavelet multi-scale decomposition, the paper reveals the fluctuation characteristics, process and its spatial differentiation of tourism efficiency change in scenic areas from the perspective of the time–frequency domain, quantitatively investigating the important factors influencing its dynamic change, so as to summarize and refine the dynamic evolution models of tourism efficiency. Lastly, the mean generating function method is applied to conduct statistical prediction for scenic areas’ tourism efficiency in different regions, combined with the principal component method for regional integration, which provides an effective way for studying temporal–spatial differentiation characteristics of tourism efficiency change in scenic areas.

Measuring electric energy efficiency in Portuguese households

Purpose – There is a great interest from the European Union in measuring the efficiency of energy use in households, and this is an area where EDP has done research in both data collection and methodology. This paper reports on a survey of electric energy use in Portuguese households, and reviews and extends the analysis of how efficiently households use electrical energy. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate household electrical energy efficiency in different regions using econometric analysis of the survey data. In addition, the same methodology was applied to a time-series data set, to evaluate recent developments in energy efficiency. Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes the application to Portuguese households of a new approach to evaluate energy efficiency, developed by Filippini and Hunt (2011, 2012) in which an econometric energy demand model was estimated to control for exogenous variables determining energy demand. The variation in energy efficiency over time and space could then be estimated by applying econometric efficiency analysis to determine the variation in energy efficiency. Findings – The results obtained allowed the identification of priority regions and consumer bands to reduce inefficiency in electricity consumption. The time-series data set shows that the expected electricity savings from the efficiency measures recently introduced by official authorities were fully realized. Research limitations/implications – This approach gives some guidance on how to introduce electricity saving measures in a more cost effective way. Originality/value – This paper outlines a new procedure for developing useful tools for modelling energy efficiency.

Visible, Up-conversion and NIR (~1.5 μm) luminescence studies of Er3+ doped Zinc Alumino Bismuth Borate glasses

Er3+ doped Zinc Alumino Bismuth Borate (ZnAlBiB) glasses with composition 20ZnO+10Al2O3+(10−x)Bi2O3+60B2O3+xEr2O3 (where x=0.1, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0mol%) were prepared by using a melt quenching technique to study their luminescence efficiency in different regions of electromagnetic spectrum using absorption, emission, up-conversion and time resolved photoluminescence spectral studies at room temperature. The Judd–Ofelt (JO) parameters evaluated by applying JO theory to the absorption spectra of Er3+ doped ZnAlBiB glasses were used to calculate the radiative properties such as transition probability (AR), Branching ratios (βR), radiative lifetimes (τR), stimulated emission cross-section (σse), gain band width (σse×ΔλP) and optical gain (σse×τR) parameters for the prominent luminescent levels of Er3+. Visible and near infra-red (NIR) emission spectra have been recorded by exciting the glass samples at 486nm and 980nm respectively. Quantum efficiency (η) values for the prepared glasses were evaluated from the decay curves recorded for the NIR transition 4I13/2→4I15/2. The up-conversion luminescence shown by these glasses were recorded and analysed to understand utility of these glasses as up-conversion lasers by exciting them with 980nm laser diode. The visible, up-conversion and NIR luminescence studies indicate that Er3+ ions doped ZnAlBiB glasses are aptly suitable for solid state lasers and optical amplifiers.

ANÁLISE DA EFICIÊNCIA TÉCNICA NAS LAVOURAS DE ARROZ NO RIO GRANDE DO SUL

This paper evaluates the technical efficiency in rice farms in Rio Grande do Sul (RS). For this, we use the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and the Tobit regression model. The study use the variables available in the Census of the Institute of Irrigated Rice of RS (IRGA, 2006). The study shows that most of the rice farmers are technically inefficient on local terms, and only 5.7% are efficient. In addition, it is possible to observe that the main variables, which increase the level of efficiency in different regions of the state, are technical assistance, education level and growing system. The results show that there are important differences between the rice farms, which depends of the region of RS and of the producer condition (owner or tenant).

Evaluation of efficiency of electricity distribution company. Using modified DEA approach in Fuzzy environment Case study: Electricity Distribution Company of Fars Province

In present research, a modified DEA model has been used to evaluate the efficiency of different regions of Fars electricity distribution company in a Fuzzy environment. This model eliminates the weak points of basic models of data envelopment analysis in calculation of a different collection of selected weights for different units. First, the efficiency of electricity distribution units was measured using classical model of data envelopment analysis, and then this action was performed using modified model. In classic model, 5 electricity distribution units out of 18 were considered as efficient areas (about 28%), while in modified model, only 1 unit (about 5.5%) was efficient. The average of unit efficiency in classical model was 0.74, while in modified model it was 0.36. It indicates that this model not only eliminates the mentioned weak point, but also it increases the differentiation potential of classical models.

Research on Mineral Resources Development and Utilization Efficiency of Different Regions

Based on data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach ,use the 11 prefecture-level city in Hebei Province as the research object, selects indicators of the inputs and outputs categories of the mineral resource development and utilization of the year of 2007 , analyzes mineral resources development utilization efficiency of the prefectural-level city in Hebei, including overall efficiency, technical efficiency and scale efficiency. The results show that: the efficiency in the development and utilization of mineral resources throughout the prefecture-level cities in Hebei exists regional differences. On this basis, made recommendations accordingly.

Genome-Wide DNA Polymorphisms in Seven Rice Cultivars of Temperate and Tropical Japonica Groups

Elucidation of the rice genome is expected to broaden our understanding of genes related to the agronomic characteristics and the genetic relationship among cultivars. In this study, we conducted whole-genome sequencings of 6 cultivars, including 5 temperate japonica cultivars and 1 tropical japonica cultivar (Moroberekan), by using next-generation sequencing (NGS) with Nipponbare genome as a reference. The temperate japonica cultivars contained 2 sake brewing (Yamadanishiki and Gohyakumangoku), 1 landrace (Kameji), and 2 modern cultivars (Koshihikari and Norin 8). Almost >83% of the whole genome sequences of the Nipponbare genome could be covered by sequenced short-reads of each cultivar, including Omachi, which has previously been reported to be a temperate japonica cultivar. Numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertions, and deletions were detected among the various cultivars and the Nipponbare genomes. Comparison of SNPs detected in each cultivar suggested that Moroberekan had 5-fold more SNPs than the temperate japonica cultivars. Success of the 2 approaches to improve the efficacy of sequence data by using NGS revealed that sequencing depth was directly related to sequencing coverage of coding DNA sequences: in excess of 30× genome sequencing was required to cover approximately 80% of the genes in the rice genome. Further, the contigs prepared using the assembly of unmapped reads could increase the value of NGS short-reads and, consequently, cover previously unavailable sequences. These approaches facilitated the identification of new genes in coding DNA sequences and the increase of mapping efficiency in different regions. The DNA polymorphism information between the 7 cultivars and Nipponbare are available at NGRC_Rices_Build1.0 (http://www.nodai-genome.org/oryza_sativa_en.html).

Modulated reheating and large non-gaussianity in string cosmology

A generic feature of the known string inflationary models is that the same physics that makes the inflaton lighter than the Hubble scale during inflation often also makes other scalars this light. These scalars can acquire isocurvature fluctuations during inflation, and given that their VEVs determine the mass spectrum and the coupling constants of the effective low-energy field theory, these fluctuations give rise to couplings and masses that are modulated from one Hubble patch to another. These seem just what is required to obtain primordial adiabatic fluctuations through conversion into density perturbations through the `modulation mechanism', wherein reheating takes place with different efficiency in different regions of our Universe. Fluctuations generated in this way can generically produce non-gaussianity larger than obtained in single-field slow-roll inflation; potentially observable in the near future. We provide here the first explicit example of the modulation mechanism at work in string cosmology, within the framework of LARGE Volume Type-IIB string flux compactifications. The inflationary dynamics involves two light Kähler moduli: a fibre divisor plays the rôle of the inflaton whose decay rate to visible sector degrees of freedom is modulated by the primordial fluctuations of a blow-up mode (which is made light by the use of poly-instanton corrections). We find the challenges of embedding the mechanism into a concrete UV completion constrains the properties of the non-gaussianity that is found, since for generic values of the underlying parameters, the model predicts a local bi-spectrum with fNL of order `a few'. However, a moderate tuning of the parameters gives also rise to explicit examples with fNL ∼ \U0001d4aa(20) potentially observable by the Planck satellite.

Evaluate the Investment Efficiency by Using Data Envelopment Analysis: The Case of China

Although investment is regarded as a key force of China’s economic growth, little study has been done to measure China’s investment efficiency. The present paper applies the data envelopment analysis (DEA) to Chinese provincial panel data from the year 2003 to 2008 for measuring the investment efficiencies and identifying their trends of Chinese 30 provinces and autonomous regions. A cross-efficient DEA model with considering benevolent formulation is used for providing accurate efficiency scores and completely ranking. The empirical results suggest that the differences of investment efficiency in different regions are distinct but tending to diminish year by year, and the investment efficiencies in some provinces are significantly correlated to their investment rates to the national total investment.

Modelling Multifunctionality, Territorial Development, and Policy Scenarios in Rural Europe: an Alternative Perspective on CAP Reform Debates Modéliser la multifonctionnalité, le développement territorial et les scénarios de politiques dans l’Europe rurale : une autre perspective sur les débats concernant la réforme de la PAC Modellierung von Multifunktionalität, Territorialentwicklung und Politikszenarien im ländlichen Raum Europas: Eine Alternativperspektive zu den Debatten über

summaryModelling Multifunctionality, Territorial Development, and Policy Scenarios in Rural Europe: an Alternative Perspective on CAP Reform DebatesThis article reports an analysis of CAP alternatives using a system dynamics model developed for 11 diverse European rural regions within a recent EU Framework 6 Research Project, TOP‐MARD (Towards a Policy Model of Multifunctional Agriculture and Rural Development). System dynamics, commonly used in ecological and climate change analysis, embodies a range of ‘feedback loops’ and allows the incorporation of a variety of novel indicators. The model includes regional economic sectors, households, a demographic module, and a quality of life module. It explicitly incorporates some of the ‘new’ policy concerns, especially those concerning the rural environment, populations and their quality of life, and territorial rural development. The outputs of the model are economic, social and environmental outcomes estimated for a baseline scenario (current policies) and for reform scenarios, all extended out to 2025. The analysis shows the varying economic, agricultural, social and environmental outcomes from a range of post‐2013 CAP and rural development policy scenarios in different regional contexts. It further indicates variations in policy efficiency in different regions and contexts. The results, although provisional, support the view that policy impacts need to be considered in particular rural contexts. They also support a ‘place‐based’ approach to sustainable development in rural regions.

Experimental investigation of liquid chromatography columns by means of computed tomography

The efficiency of packed chromatographic columns was investigated experimentally by means of computed tomography (CT) techniques. The measurements were carried out by monitoring tracer fronts in situ inside the chromatographic columns. The experimental results were fitted using the equilibrium dispersive model (EDM) and varying the so called apparent axial dispersion coefficient. The additivity of the first and second central moments was exploited to estimate column efficiency in different regions of the column.

The packing density in proteins: standard radii and volumes

The sizes of atomic groups are a fundamental aspect of protein structure. They are usually expressed in terms of standard sets of radii for atomic groups and of volumes for both these groups and whole residues. Atomic groups, which subsume a heavy-atom and its covalently attached hydrogen atoms into one moiety, are used because the positions of hydrogen atoms in protein structures are generally not known. We have calculated new values for the radii of atomic groups and for the volumes of atomic groups. These values should prove useful in the analysis of protein packing, protein recognition and ligand design. Our radii for atomic groups were derived from intermolecular distance calculations on a large number (∼30,000) of crystal structures of small organic compounds that contain the same atomic groups to those found in proteins. Our radii show significant differences to previously reported values. We also use this new radii set to determine the packing efficiency in different regions of the protein interior. This analysis shows that, if the surface water molecules are included in the calculations, the overall packing efficiency throughout the protein interior is high and fairly uniform. However, if the water structure is removed, the packing efficiency in peripheral regions of the protein interior is underestimated, by ∼3.5%.

Mineral Fibre Sampling and Size Selection

Potential health hazards due to fibre inhalation are only evaluated in a limited way by simple optical microscopy examination of the membrane filters on which the fibres have been collected. One must consider the amount of fibres deposited and persisting in the most vulnerable organ compartments. Exposure evaluated in this way must take account of the deposition efficiency and relative clearance efficiency of different regions of the respiratory tract, which depends mainly on the diameter and length distribution of the fibres. The fibre diameter roughly indicates the deposition site in the respiratory tract, while the length is mainly connected with toxicity. For these reasons, at international level, special samplers have been recently proposed, capable of distinguishing the fibre sizes, in order to separate the so-called 'thoracic fraction' (the total fibres which penetrate beyond the larynx) and the 'respirable fraction' (only the fibres reaching the non ciliated respiratory area), which represent the most interesting sizes as far as health effects are concerned. Our purpose in this context is to explore the feasibility of using the Inertial Spectrometer (INSPEC) as a sampler that separates the fibres according to their aerodynamic diameter. The optical and electron microscope observations of the samples demonstrate a satisfactory size separation of the fibres and alignment along the flow lines. Therefore, INSPEC is successful in restricting the microscopic analyses to the potentially noxious fibres and in assessing specific concentrations for each diameter interval.

Mineral Fibre Sampling and Size Selection

Potential health hazards due to fibre inhalation are only evaluated in a limited way by simple optical microscopy examination of the membrane filters on which the fibres have been collected. One must consider the amount of fibres deposited and persisting in the most vulnerable organ compartments. Exposure evaluated in this way must take account of the deposition efficiency and relative clearance efficiency of different regions of the respiratory tract, which depends mainly on the diameter and length distribution of the fibres. The fibre diameter roughly indicates the deposition site in the respiratory tract, while the length is mainly connected with toxicity. For these reasons, at international level, special samplers have been recently proposed, capable of distinguishing the fibre sizes, in order to separate the so-called thoracic fraction (the total fibres which penetrate beyond the larynx) and the respirable fraction (only the fibres reaching the non ciliated respiratory area), which represent the most interesting sizes as far as health effects are concerned. Our purpose in this context is to explore the feasibility of using the Inertial Spectrometer (INSPEC) as a sampler that separates the fibres according to their aerodynamic diameter. The optical and electron microscope observations of the samples demonstrate a satisfactory size separation of the fibres and alignment along the flow lines. Therefore, INSPEC is successful in restricting the microscopic analyses to the potentially noxious fibres and in assessing specific concentrations for each diameter interval.

Process optimization for production of sub-20 nm soft x-ray zone plates

We report here the optimization of processes for producing sub-20 nm soft x-ray zone plates, using a general purpose electron beam lithography system and commercial resist technologies. We have critically evaluated the failure point of the various process steps and where possible chosen alternate methods, materials, or otherwise modified the process. Advances have been made in most steps of the process, including the imaging resist, pattern conversion for electron beam exposure, and pattern transfer. Two phase shifting absorber materials, germanium and nickel, were compared. Zone plates with 30 nm outer zones have been fabricated in both germanium and nickel with excellent quality using polymethyl methyl accrylate and zones as small as 20 nm have been fabricated in nickel using the calixarene resist. The total efficiency as well as the efficiency of different regions of the zone plates were measured. All zone plates have demonstrated good efficiencies, with nickel zone plates performing better than germanium zone plates.

STOMATAL MOVEMENT AND PHOTOSYNTHESIS IN PELARGONIUM. I. EFFECTS OF LIGHT AND CARBON DIOXIDE

The old hypothesis that light induces stomatal opening through its photosynthetic activity has been variously tested in a number of recent investigations. The results are strangely contradictory. First, reference may be made to tests based on the relative efficiency of different regions of the spectrum in promoting stomatal opening, though these tests are not very recent. The only systematic studies in which strictly quantitative methods have been used to equalize light intensity are those of Paetz (11), Sierp (15), and Harms (?). Paetz found that the order of activity was red light > blue > green, whereas Sierp and Harms found that red light was regularly the least active and that in most species green light was as active as blue. It has long been known that a reduction in the normal C02 content of the air tends to induce stomatal opening and an increase in CO2, up to a point, above normal has the opposite effect. It has, however, only recently been demonstrated (Heath, 7, 9) that the sensitivity of stornata to small changes in C02 concentration below normal is such that stomatal response to variations in light intensity could conceivably be due primarily to the effect of the latter on C02 concentration within the leaf. The only investigation in which measurement of photosynthesis rate has been combined with estimation of stomatal aperture is that of Wilson (18). Approaching the problem from various angles, he obtained results which seem quite opposed to the photosynthetic theory. Both in the behavior of plants in the open and under certain artificial conditions, stomatal opening and photosynthesis often showed no correlation, while complete absence of chlorophyll from leaves, including guard cells, did not entirely prevent stomatal response to light. On the other hand, regarding the long unsettled question of whether guard cells are capable of photosynthesis, the most