Saved Queries

This research proposes an adaptation of the quality–loyalty model in which affective commitment is integrated as a key factor in the proposed framework. The study presented a comprehensive framework encompassing 11 hypotheses formulated from an extensive literature review. Empirical data collected from 679 environmentally conscious consumers predominantly residing in Vietnam’s three principal urban centers were employed to evaluate these hypotheses. The assessment was executed utilizing the partial least squares structural equation modeling technique. The results of this research authenticate the appropriateness of the integrated model in studying green consumption, verify the critical role of affective commitment in the newly introduced model, and identify the high impact of affective commitment on green loyalty intention and green purchase behavior. This research also shows that other factors of the quality–loyalty model have significant influences on affective commitment and green loyalty intention. Moreover, this study signifies the crucial role of green perceived quality in fostering affective commitment and green loyalty intention. Green perceived quality was identified as a key factor influencing green loyalty intention and played a crucial role in encouraging customers to purchase environmentally friendly products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Psychology of Sustainability and Sustainable Development)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 13851 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Spatially Aware Machine Learning Method for Locating Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

by Yanyan Huang, Hangyi Ren, Xudong Jia, Xianyu Yu, Dong Xie, You Zou, Daoyuan Chen and Yi Yang

World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(8), 445; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16080445 (registering DOI) - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has driven a strong need for optimizing locations of electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs). Previous methods for locating EVCSs rely on statistical and optimization models, but these methods have limitations in capturing complex nonlinear relationships and spatial dependencies among factors influencing EVCS locations. To address this research gap and better understand the spatial impacts of urban activities on EVCS placement, this study presents a spatially aware machine learning (SAML) method that combines a multi-layer perceptron (MLP) model with a spatial loss function to optimize EVCS sites. Additionally, the method uses the Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) technique to investigate nonlinear relationships embedded in EVCS placement. Using the city of Wuhan as a case study, the SAML method reveals that parking site (PS), road density (RD), population density (PD), and commercial residential (CR) areas are key factors in determining optimal EVCS sites. The SAML model classifies these grid cells into no EVCS demand (0 EVCS), low EVCS demand (from 1 to 3 EVCSs), and high EVCS demand (4+ EVCSs) classes. The model performs well in predicting EVCS demand. Findings from ablation tests also indicate that the inclusion of spatial correlations in the model’s loss function significantly enhances the model’s performance. Additionally, results from case studies validate that the model is effective in predicting EVCSs in other metropolitan cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fast-Charging Station for Electric Vehicles: Challenges and Issues)

19 pages, 784 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Integrative Model Analyzing Revisit Intentions and Behavior in Halal Tourism: Evidence from Indonesia

by Abror Abror, Dina Patrisia, Yunita Engriani, Erly Mulyani, Vanessa Gaffar, Nurman Achmad, Mukhamad Najib, Long Kim and Somnuk Aujirapongpan

Tour. Hosp. 2025, 6(3), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/tourhosp6030151 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence tourist behavior and revisit intentions in the context of halal tourism. The antecedent variables in this study included religiosity, digital halal literacy, halal destination features, contentment, and trust. This is a quantitative study that used travelers that visited halal tourism attractions in West Sumatra, Indonesia, as the sample population. The sample size was 400 respondents. The data were analyzed using the partial least squares–structural equation model (PLS-SEM). We discovered that religiosity is an important predictor of contentment and trust. Satisfaction was achieved through digital halal literacy and halal destination qualities and was found to have a significant influence on trust, tourist behavior, and revisit intentions. Finally, trust was found to have a significant association with intention to revisit and behavior. The results of this research are insightful for managers and policymakers on how to provide halal tourism attributes and analyze tourists’ digital halal literacy that lead to tourist satisfaction. This study also provides further knowledge to policymakers and local authorities on how to promote future tourist participation in halal tourism development in Indonesia; thus, it can help create more tourist returns for further visits to the same location in the future. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 4701 KiB

Open AccessReview

Maternal Lifestyle During Pregnancy and Its Influence on Offspring’s Telomere Length

by Elena Vakonaki, Maria Theodora Vitiadou, Eleftherios Panteris, Manolis Tzatzarakis, Aristides Tsatsakis and Eleftheria Hatzidaki

Life 2025, 15(8), 1250; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081250 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Telomeres are protective DNA sequences located at chromosome ends, essential to maintaining genomic stability. This narrative review examines how maternal lifestyle factors during pregnancy influence fetal telomere length (TL). Positive associations have been identified between offspring’s TL and maternal consumption of nutrients such as vitamins C and D, folate, and magnesium. Additionally, adherence to a Mediterranean diet and regular physical activity during pregnancy are correlated with increased placental TL, supporting fetal genomic integrity. Conversely, maternal dietary patterns high in carbohydrates, fats, or alcohol, as well as exposure to triclosan and sleep-disordered breathing, negatively correlate with offspring’s TL. Maternal infections may also shorten TL through heightened inflammation and oxidative stress. However, evidence regarding the impact of other lifestyle factors—including maternal stress, smoking, caffeine intake, polyunsaturated fatty acid consumption, obesity, and sleep quality—remains inconsistent. Given that shorter telomere length has been associated with cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as certain types of cancer, these findings highlight the vital importance of maternal health during pregnancy in order to prevent potential adverse effects on the fetus. Further studies are required to elucidate the precise timing, intensity, and interplay of these influences, enabling targeted prenatal interventions to enhance offspring health outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Telomere Length as a Marker of Biological Age and Age-Related Diseases)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3586 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Objective Optimization Design of Foamed Cement Mix Proportion Based on Response Surface Methodology

by Kailu Liu, Wanying Qu and Haoyang Zeng

Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2782; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152782 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Foam cement, as a building insulation material, encounters a major problem in practical application, which is the difficulty in achieving a balance between its strength and insulation performance. To achieve multi-objective optimization of foamed cement mix design, this study first determined the optimal ranges of nano-silica aerogel (NSA), foaming agent, and polypropylene (PP) fiber dosage through single-factor experiments. Then, response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to construct a quadratic polynomial regression model, systematically investigating the influence of different NSA contents, foaming agent contents, and PP fibers contents on the thermal conductivity and compressive strength of foamed cement. Finally, the optimal mix ratio was further predicted and experimentally validated. The results demonstrate that the regression model developed using RSM exhibits high accuracy and reliability. The correlation coefficients R² of the regression models established by the response surface method are 0.9756 and 0.9684, respectively, indicating good prediction accuracy. The optimized mix ratio was determined as follows: NSA content, 9.548%; foaming agent content, 0.533%; and PP fiber content, 0.1%. Under this mix, the model predicted a thermal conductivity of 0.123 W/(m·K) and a 28-day compressive strength of 1.081 MPa. Experimental verification confirmed that the errors between predicted and measured values for all performance indicators were within 5%, demonstrating the high reliability of the predictive model. This study provides support for the practical application of foam cement as a thermal insulation material in construction projects and offers guidance for optimizing its mixture composition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3157 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Online Traceability Methods for the Causes of Longitudinal Surface Crack in Continuous Casting Slab

by Junqiang Cong, Qiancheng Lv, Zihao Fan, Haitao Ling and Fei He

Materials 2025, 18(15), 3695; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153695 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

In the casting and rolling production process, surface longitudinal cracks are a typical casting defect. Tracing the causes of longitudinal cracks online and controlling the key parameters leading to their formation in a timely manner can enhance the stability of casting and rolling production. To this end, the influencing factors of longitudinal cracks were analyzed, a data integration storage platform was constructed, and a tracing model was established using empirical rule analysis, statistical analysis, and intelligent analysis methods. During the initial production phase of a casting machine, longitudinal cracks occurred frequently. The tracing results using the LightGBM-SHAP method showed that the relative influence of the narrow left wide inner heat flow ratio of the mold was significant, followed by the heat flow difference on the wide symmetrical face of the mold and the superheat of the molten steel, with weights of 0.135, 0.066, and 0.048, respectively. Based on the tracing results, we implemented online emergency measures. By controlling the cooling intensity of the mold, we effectively reduced the recurrence rate of longitudinal cracks. Root cause analysis revealed that the total hardness of the mold-cooling water exceeded the standard, reaching 24 mg/L, which caused scaling on the mold copper plates and uneven cooling, leading to the frequent occurrence of longitudinal cracks. After strictly controlling the water quality, the issue of longitudinal cracks was brought under control. The online application of the tracing method for the causes of longitudinal cracks has effectively improved efficiency in resolving longitudinal crack problems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Sheet/Bulk Metal Forming)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 1379 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Avant-Texts, Characters and Factoids: Interpreting the Genesis of La luna e i falò Through an Ontology

by Giuseppe Arena

Humanities 2025, 14(8), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/h14080162 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study introduces the Real-To-Fictional Ontology (RTFO), a structured framework designed to analyze the dynamic relationship between reality and fiction in literary works, with a focus on preparatory materials and their influence on narrative construction. While traditional Italian philology and genetic criticism have distinct theoretical and editorial approaches to avant-text, this ontology addresses their limitations by integrating fine-grained textual analysis with contextual biographical avant-text to enhance character interpretation. Modeled in OWL2, RTFO harmonizes established frameworks such as LRMoo and CIDOC-CRM, enabling systematic representation of narrative elements. The ontology is applied to the case study of Cesare Pavese’s La luna e i falò, with a particular focus on the biographical avant-text of Pinolo Scaglione, the real-life friend who inspired key aspects of the novel. The fragmented and unstable nature of avant-text is addressed through a factoid-based model, which captures character-related traits, states and events as interconnected entities. SWRL rules are employed to infer implicit connections, such as direct influences between real-life contexts and fictional constructs. Application of the ontology to case studies demonstrates its effectiveness in tracing the evolution of characters from preparatory drafts to final texts, revealing how biographical and contextual factors shape narrative choices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Interpretation of Fictional Characters in Literary Texts: History of Literary Criticism, Philosophy and Formal Ontologies)

53 pages, 3243 KiB

Open AccessReview

Shaping Sustainability Through Food Consumption: A Conceptual Perspective

by Juta Deksne, Jelena Lonska, Lienite Litavniece and Tatjana Tambovceva

Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7138; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157138 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

The food consumption stage, the final step in the food supply chain (FSC), where food has already undergone resource-intensive processes, plays a central role in the transition to a sustainable food system. Consumers’ food choices and consumption practices directly influence food demand, production methods, and resource use across the FSC. These factors affect global challenges such as overconsumption, malnutrition, hunger, and food waste (FW)—issues integral to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, this study aims to identify key aspects of the food consumption stage that influence the shift toward sustainability and to develop a conceptual framework to guide this transition. To achieve this, an integrative literature review (ILR), supported by bibliometric analysis and narrative review elements, was conducted to strengthen the conceptual foundation. The results reveal four central aspects: FW and its reduction, the need for dietary shifts, changes in consumer behaviour, and policy reform, highlighting the consumer and their behaviour as the central connecting element. Based on the findings, a framework was developed linking the identified problems with targeted solutions, which can be implemented through various tools that also act as drivers of change, enhancing sustainable food consumption, food system sustainability, and the achievement of global SDGs. Full article

20 pages, 319 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Mass Media on Career Choices of Final-Year High School Students in Brașov County, Romania

by Claudiu Coman, Costel Marian Dalban, Ionela Pitea, Marcel Iordache and Anna Bucs

Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030126 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study examines the influence of mass media on the career choices of high school students from Brașov County, Romania, with a focus on their underlying motivational factors. Employing a quantitative design, it draws on data from a standardized questionnaire completed by 1314 students from local high schools. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used in the analysis. While some students identify mass media as a key source of career guidance, documentaries and career fairs are more frequently cited as trusted sources. Students’ perceptions of mass media are ambivalent: 55.1% see it as manipulative, while 41.7% and 24.7% acknowledge its informative and educational roles. Personal motivation emerges as the most significant influence, with 64.8% guided by individual talents and abilities, compared to a lower influence from family or media role models. Correlational analysis highlights the importance of personal development, creativity, and collaboration in career motivation. This study suggests that mass media indirectly shapes students’ aspirations by reinforcing values like social recognition, mobility, and identity. Finally, it reveals a strong link between career interest and expectations for respectful, stable, and growth-oriented work environments, pointing to a pragmatic orientation toward professional sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies in Communication: Best Practices and Theoretical Frameworks for Professional Success)

11 pages, 671 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Mattress Use on Sacral Interface Pressure in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

by Hye Young Lee, In Sun Jang, Jung Eun Hong, Je Hyun Kim and Seungmi Park

Geriatrics 2025, 10(4), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics10040107 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Pressure injuries are a significant concern among older adults, particularly in community-based long-term care settings where prolonged immobility is prevalent. This study aimed to identify factors influencing sacral interface pressure in community-dwelling older adults, with an emphasis on support surface usage and clinical risk indicators. Methods: A total of 210 participants aged 65 years and older, all receiving long-term care services in South Korea, were enrolled in this study. Sacral interface pressure was measured in the supine position using a portable pressure mapping device (Palm Q7). General characteristics, Braden Scale scores, Huhn Scale scores, and mattress usage were assessed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic regression. Results: Mattress non-use was identified as the strongest predictor of elevated sacral interface pressure (OR = 6.71, p < 0.001), followed by Braden Scale scores indicating moderate risk (OR = 4.8, p = 0.006). Huhn Scale scores were not significantly associated with interface pressure. These results suggest that support surface quality and skin condition have a stronger impact on interface pressure than mobility-related risk factors. Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of providing high-quality pressure-relieving mattresses and implementing standardized nursing assessments to reduce the risk of pressure injuries. Integrating smart technologies and expanding access to advanced support surfaces may aid in developing tailored preventive strategies for vulnerable older adults. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1278 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Main Influencing Factors and Variation Patterns of Basal Area Increment (BAI) of Pinus massoniana

by Zhuofan Li, Cancong Zhao, Jun Lu, Jianfeng Yao, Yanling Li, Mengli Zhou and Denglong Ha

Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7137; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157137 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

Understanding the environmental drivers of radial growth in the Pinus massoniana (lamb.) is essential for improving forest productivity and carbon sequestration in subtropical ecosystems. This study used the basal area increment (BAI) as an indicator of radial growth to investigate the main factors affecting the radial growth rate of P. massoniana and the changes in BAI with these factors. A total of 58 high quality tree ring series were analyzed. Six common methods were used to comprehensively analyze the importance of nine factor variables on the BAI, including tree age, competition index, average temperature, and so on. Generalized additive models (GAMs) were developed to explore the nonlinear relationships between each selected variable and the BAI. The results revealed the following: (1) Age and Competition Index was identified as the primary driving force; (2) BAI increased with Age when tree age was below 69 years; (3) from the overall trend, the BAI of P. massoniana decreased with the increase in the Competition Index. These findings provide a scientific basis for developing management plans for P. massoniana forests. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Technological Applications in Agriculture for the Development of the Circular Bioeconomy)

23 pages, 5773 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Seasonal Risk Assessment of Hydrogen Leakage, Diffusion, and Explosion in Hydrogen Refueling Station

by Yaling Liu, Yao Zeng, Guanxi Zhao, Huarong Hou, Yangfan Song and Bin Ding

Energies 2025, 18(15), 4172; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154172 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

To reveal the influence mechanisms of seasonal climatic factors (wind speed, wind direction, temperature) and leakage direction on hydrogen dispersion and explosion behavior from single-source leaks at typical risk locations (hydrogen storage tanks, compressors, dispensers) in hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs), this work established a full-scale 1:1 three-dimensional numerical model using the FLACS v22.2 software based on the actual layout of an HRS in Xichang, Sichuan Province. Through systematic simulations of 72 leakage scenarios (3 equipment types × 4 seasons × 6 leakage directions), the coupled effects of climatic conditions, equipment layout, and leakage direction on hydrogen dispersion patterns and explosion risks were quantitatively analyzed. The key findings indicate the following: (1) Downward leaks (−Z direction) from storage tanks tend to form large-area ground-hugging hydrogen clouds, representing the highest explosion risk (overpressure peak: 0.25 barg; flame temperature: >2500 K). Leakage from compressors (±X/−Z directions) readily affects adjacent equipment. Dispenser leaks pose relatively lower risks, but specific directions (−Y direction) coupled with wind fields may drive significant hydrogen dispersion toward station buildings. (2) Southeast/south winds during spring/summer promote outward migration of hydrogen clouds, reducing overall station risk but causing localized accumulation near storage tanks. Conversely, north/northwest winds in autumn/winter intensify hydrogen concentrations in compressor and station building areas. (3) An empirical formula integrating climatic parameters, leakage conditions, and spatial coordinates was proposed to predict hydrogen concentration (error < 20%). This model provides theoretical and data support for optimizing sensor placement, dynamically adjusting ventilation strategies, and enhancing safety design in HRSs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electric and Hydrogen Vehicles in Urban Transport Systems: The Current State, Plans, and Technical Requirements)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 398 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analyzing Regional Disparities in China’s Green Manufacturing Transition

by Xuejuan Wang, Qi Deng, Riccardo Natoli, Li Wang, Wei Zhang and Catherine Xiaocui Lou

Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7127; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157127 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

China has identified the high-quality development of its green manufacturing transition as the top priority for upgrading their industrial structure system which will lead to the sustainable development of an innovation ecosystem. To assess their progress in this area, this study selects the panel data of 31 provinces in China from 2011 to 2021 and constructs an evaluation index system for the green transformation of the manufacturing industry from four dimensions: environment, resources, economy, and industrial structure. This not only comprehensively and systematically reflects the dynamic changes in the green transformation of the manufacturing industry but also addresses the limitations of currently used indices. The entropy value method is used to calculate the comprehensive score of the green transformation of the manufacturing industry, while the key factors influencing the convergence of the green transformation of the manufacturing industry are further explored. The results show that first, the overall level of the green transformation of the manufacturing industry has significantly improved as evidenced by an approximate 32% increase. Second, regional differences are significant with the eastern region experiencing significantly higher levels of transformation compared to the central and western regions, along with a decreasing trend from the east to the central and western regions. From a policy perspective, the findings suggest that tailored production methods for each region should be adopted with a greater emphasis on knowledge exchanges to promote green transition in less developed regions. In addition, further regulations are required which, in part, focus on increasing the degree of openness to the outside world to promote the level of green manufacturing transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Management)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 877 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Longitudinal Study of Perceived Brand Globalness: The Dynamic Effects of Ethnocentrism and Purchase Intentions from 2021 to 2024

by Mehmet Yaman Öztek, Munise Hayrun Sağlam and Elif Türk

Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7132; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157132 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

This longitudinal study examines how perceived brand globalness (PBG) influenced sustainable purchase intentions (SPI) between 2021 and 2024, incorporating factors such as perceived brand quality (PBQ), perceived brand prestige (PBP), brand–cause fit (BCF), and the moderating effect of consumer ethnocentrism (CE). Using survey responses from 415 participants, the study employed partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS4. The findings reveal that CE emerged as significant in 2024, while PBP’s impact on SPI weakened—suggesting a growing consumer association of prestige with sustainability. Heightened post-pandemic ethical awareness further underscores the importance of brand values. Contrary to earlier research indicating low CE in developing markets, the 2024 results demonstrate an unexpected rise in CE, highlighting its evolving significance. Overall, the study emphasizes the necessity for global brands to adopt sustainable, locally attuned strategies to succeed in developing countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Brand Management and Consumer Perceptions (2nd Edition))

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 715 KiB

Open AccessReview

Public Perceptions and Social Acceptance of Renewable Energy Projects in Epirus, Greece: The Role of Education, Demographics and Visual Exposure

by Evangelos Tsiaras, Stergios Tampekis and Costas Gavrilakis

World 2025, 6(3), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/world6030111 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

The social acceptance of Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) is a decisive factor in the successful implementation of clean energy projects. This study explores the attitudes, demographic profiles, and common misconceptions of citizens in the Region of Epirus, Greece, toward photovoltaic and wind energy installations. Special attention is given to the role of education, age, and access to information—as well as spatial factors such as visual exposure—in shaping public perceptions and influencing acceptance of RES deployment. A structured questionnaire was administered to 320 participants across urban and rural areas, with subdivision between regions with and without visual exposure to RES infrastructure. Findings indicate that urban residents exhibit greater acceptance of RES, while rural inhabitants—especially those in proximity to installations—express skepticism, often grounded in esthetic concerns or perceived procedural injustice. Misinformation and lack of knowledge dominate in areas without visual contact. Statistical analysis confirms that younger and more educated participants are more supportive and environmentally aware. The study highlights the importance of targeted educational interventions, transparent consultation, and spatially sensitive communication strategies in fostering constructive engagement with renewable energy projects. The case of Epirus underscores the need for inclusive, place-based policies to bridge the social acceptance gap and support the national energy transition. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Error

Oops... you haven't selected anything for export.

Displaying article 1-50 on page 1 of 1347.

Go to page 1 2 3 4 5

Search Results (67,314)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI