Frontiers in Sustainable Development is a monthly online, international, peer-reviewed journal, dedicated to publish empirical, academic, theoretical and review research articles that contribute to the practice in sustainable development, and related topics. All articles published are rigorously and fast reviewed meeting the Journal Quality standards.
Research and Analysis on Corrosion of a Gas Gathering Station in a Gas Field in Northern Shaanxi
This study focuses on the current corrosion situation of a gas gathering station in northern Shaanxi. Multiple experimental methods are used to conduct a systematic analysis and evaluation of corrosion coupons, aiming to clarify the corrosion behaviors and laws at different positions of the gas gathering station. By analyzing the main corrosion factors and combining the corrosion characteristics of the system, in-depth investigations of the corrosion details at each stage are carried out with the help of methods such as weight loss, scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), line scanning, and pitting degree. The results show that the main elemental compositions of the corrosion products on the surfaces of the coupons in the incoming pipeline, sewage pipeline, and outgoing pipeline are Fe, C, S, O, and elements such as Na, Ba, and Si are also contained. It can be seen that the distribution of deposits on the coupon surfaces is uneven, and the corrosion product films in some areas have fallen off. The main corrosion products on the coupon surfaces are FeCO3 and a small amount of FeS, and the main cause of corrosion is mainly CO2.
Gas Gathering Station; Corrosion Detection; Corrosion Products; Hanging Analysis.
Copyright (c) 2025 Frontiers in Sustainable Development https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Research on Tourism Development in Hengjiang Ancient Town based on Spatial Production Theory
The slow-paced ancient town tourism has become an important choice for tourists to relax and unwind. As a national 4A-level tourist attraction and a key tourism resource town in Yibin City, Hengjiang Ancient Town faces contradictions between tourism space and residents' slow-paced living space amidst rapid tourism development. This paper, framed by spatial production theory, explores the dynamic process of tourism spatial production and the interactive relationships among four main actors – indigenous residents, businesses, tourists, and the government – in Hengjiang Ancient Town. The study reveals that the tourism spatial production in Hengjiang Ancient Town exhibits a "natural space-mental space-social space" tripartite synergy, but is challenged by incomplete functional transformation, insufficient cultural activation, and unequal distribution of interests among stakeholders. Based on these findings, this paper proposes an optimized path for ancient town tourism, encompassing "functional zoning + cultural activation + stakeholder coordination," highlighting that establishing spatial identity and collaborative mechanisms among stakeholders is crucial for promoting the sustainable tourism development of Hengjiang Ancient Town.
Theory of Spatial Production; Hengjiang Ancient Town; Tourism; Tripartite Synergy.
Digital Economy as a Moderator: Examining the Impact of Economic Development on Carbon Emissions
Under the Paris Climate Accord, China has pledged to reduce carbon emissions by 2030 to help limit global temperature rise within 2°C. Using panel data for 2011–2019 and system GMM estimation, this study examines the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) in the Chinese context and identifies both the direct and moderating effects of the digital economy. The results show that (i) the digital economy exerts a direct mitigating effect on carbon emissions, yet its interaction with GDP per capita is positive, indicating that in more digitalized regions the marginal impact of economic growth on emissions is stronger; and (ii) the relationship between GDP per capita and carbon emissions is U-shaped, with most regions situated on the rising limb, which explains the overall increase in emissions associated with GDP growth during the sample period. These findings suggest that the inverted-U EKC is not universally applicable, and that consumption upgrading and urbanization are key mechanisms driving emission dynamics. Therefore, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals requires policies tailored to development stages and regional heterogeneity. Aligning digital transformation with green growth is essential to balance economic advancement, evolving consumption, and environmental sustainability on China’s path to low-carbon development.
GDP Per Capita; Carbon Emission; U-Shaped Environment Kuznets Curve (EKC); Digital Economy; Consumption Upgrade; Urbanization Proces.
Integration of AI with Building Energy Management Systems for Low-Carbon Urban Development
This paper investigates the application of Artificial Intelligence and Building Energy Management Systems (AI-BEMS) to advance low-carbon urban development goals. An extensive 18-month experimental campaign conducted on 27 different case studies has addressed energy, CO2 savings, economic feasibility and operational reliability. The results indicate that the AI-BEMS system successfully realize energy usages reductions, ranging from averaged 28.3% for all types of buildings, to maximum reduction with 31.3% for the residential buildings. Reductions in carbon emissions averaged 32.1%, institutional building had the highest at 34.8%. The economic analysis showed promising results with a mean payback period of 3.3 years and 5 year ROI of 53%. System reliability statistics showed availability and the thermal comfort compliance were at 98.2% and 93.8%, respectively. The percentage of correct AI predictions increased from 78.0% to 95.0% across the operational time frame, indicating the system adapted and learnt. The results of statistical analysis indicated a significant enhancement in all items (p < 0.001). The results indicate that AI-BEMS integration is an established technology solution to attain the urban sustainable targets without forsaking economic feasibility and strong operational performance.
Artificial Intelligence; Low-Carbon Development; Smart Buildings; Energy Efficiency; Carbon Reduction; Urban Sustainability.
Research Progress on the Effects of Alfalfa on Farmland Runoff Nitrogen in the Arid Northwest Region of China
Water scarcity in the arid northwest region of China, coupled with agricultural non-point source pollution, particularly nitrogen loss via farmland runoff, has become a critical issue threatening regional water environment security. Compared to traditional engineering measures, ecological interception technologies utilizing plant-microbe combined systems show great potential. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), as an important leguminous forage, possesses unique advantages in controlling nitrogen loss due to its strong nitrogen fixation capacity and ecological adaptability. This review aims to systematically elaborate the core mediating role of soil microorganisms in alfalfa's regulation of the farmland nitrogen cycle, with a focus on analyzing how alfalfa achieves dual control effects-"increasing source" and "reducing flow"-on farmland runoff nitrogen in the arid northwest region through biological nitrogen fixation, stimulation of rhizosphere nitrogen transformation, and construction of microbial ecological networks. Finally, the review summarizes the limitations of current research and provides prospects for future research directions, intending to offer a theoretical basis for managing agricultural non-point source pollution and achieving green sustainable development in the arid northwest region.
Alfalfa; Runoff Nitrogen; Nitrogen Cycle; Arid Northwest Region.
Research on the Interactive Relationship between Pre-competition State Anxiety and Peer Support of College Athletes: A Case Study of Zhaoqing University
This study aims to explore the interactive relationship between pre-competition state anxiety and peer support among college athlete-students, using Zhaoqing University as a case for empirical analysis. A questionnaire survey was conducted among 286 athletes from 12 sports teams at Zhaoqing University, using the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2) and the Athlete Peer Support Scale. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted to deepen the quantitative results. The findings indicate that: (1) the overall pre-competition state anxiety among athletes at Zhaoqing University is above the medium level, with the highest score in the somatic anxiety dimension; (2) the overall level of peer support is relatively high, especially in terms of emotional and informational support; (3) correlation analysis shows that peer support and its dimensions have a significant negative correlation with cognitive and somatic state anxiety, and a significant positive correlation with state self-confidence; (4) regression analysis confirms that peer support is an effective variable in predicting pre-competition state anxiety, especially in alleviating cognitive anxiety; (5) there are inter-group differences in anxiety and support among athletes of different sports, genders, and sports levels. Conclusion: High-level peer support is a key protective factor in alleviating pre-competition state anxiety and enhancing state self-confidence among college athlete-students. It is recommended that university sports team managers and coaches systematically build and optimize team support systems, incorporating peer support interventions into daily psychological training programs to promote athletes' mental health and competitive performance.
College Athlete; Pre-Competition State Anxiety; Peer Support; Psychological Intervention.
Examining the Environmental Impact of High-Powered Computing
In parallel with the notable contributions of high-performance computing (HPC) to advancements in research, industry, and digital infrastructure, its surging energy demands and associated carbon footprint have emerged as pressing environmental concerns. Recent projections suggest that, without appropriate intervention, global electricity usage by data centers could surge by up to 160% by 2030, posing a major obstacle to achieving carbon neutrality. To confront this issue, this paper introduces a quantitative and layered assessment framework that evaluates the carbon emissions of HPC systems, factoring in operational intensity, regional deployment patterns, and power grid composition. Furthermore, it integrates water consumption analysis arising from cooling mechanisms to establish a dual-focus environmental indicator system that highlights both carbon and water-related impacts. Simulation results suggest that even under moderate usage rates (e.g., 56.25%), annual carbon emissions could exceed 290 million metric tons, and potentially reach over 500 million tons if energy structures worsen. Hence, accelerating the shift towards renewable and clean energy emerges as a vital trajectory for sustainable HPC development
Carbon Emissions; High-Performance Computing (HPC); Environmental Protection.
Research on the Construction of Accessible Environmental Spaces and the Reform of Training Programs for Environmental Art and Design Professionals
Against the backdrop of an increasingly aging population, the construction of accessible environments has become an important issue for social development. At present, research on accessible design in China is still in its infancy and urgently needs systematic and specialized promotion. This study is based on field research on the construction of barrier free facilities, proposing barrier free planning strategies for indoor and outdoor spaces in buildings, and further exploring the integration of barrier free design concepts into spatial design courses in the training program for environmental art and design professionals. By updating and optimizing course content, we aim to align professional education with social needs and enhance the ability of design talents to serve society and solve real-world problems.
Accessibility Design; Suitable for Aging; Feedback Teaching; Reform of Personnel Training Program; Course Research.
Regulation of Soil Microbial Diversity on the Stability of Farmland Ecosystem
In this paper, the regulatory effect of soil microbial diversity on the stability of farmland ecosystem under different agricultural management measures was systematically discussed through comparative experimental design. Select typical intensive farmland in major grain producing areas in China, and set up four treatments: conventional management (CON), organic agriculture (ORG), ecological enhancement (ECO), and natural restoration (NAT). Continuously monitor soil physical and chemical properties, microbial community structure, and ecosystem stability indicators. The results showed that ORG and ECO treatments significantly increased soil organic matter, total nitrogen content, and pH value (p<0.05), and significantly enhanced the Shannon Wiener diversity index of bacteria and fungi. The analysis of microbial community structure shows that ecological management measures restore the community to its natural state. The complexity of the microbial co-occurrence network is highest under ECO treatment, and key groups such as Proteobacteria and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are significantly correlated with system stability. Structural equation modeling (SEM) further reveals that microbial diversity is a core factor in regulating ecosystem stability, indirectly optimizing agricultural ecological stability by enhancing soil function and strengthening system resistance and resilience. The study emphasizes that enhancing soil microbial diversity is a key path to achieving sustainable agricultural development, ensuring food security, and ecological balance.
Soil Microbial Diversity; Farmland Ecosystem; Stability.
Pathways for National Audit to Facilitate High-quality County-level Economic Development
High-quality county-level economic development is an inevitable requirement for achieving Chinese modernization. This study argues that national audit, serving as the “immune system” of county-level governance, should strengthen the foundation of digital auditing, foster high-caliber audit professionals, promote research-oriented auditing, and integrate various types of national audit. Through full coverage audit and the establishment of a national audit closed loop, the functions of national audit can be fully leveraged to create value and safeguard the modernization of county-level economic systems. In turn, the pursuit of high-quality county-level economic development in the new era will be inherently consistent with Chinese modernization.
National Audit; County-level Economic Development; Chinese Modernization.
Impact of Geological Hazards on Regional Economic Development: Evidence from the Pacific Ring of Fire
This study examines seismic activity, volcanoes, tsunamis, and related hazards over a 20-year period in order to assess the economic effects of geologic hazards on the regional development trajectories of the Pacific Ring of Fire. Based on empirical data, the region's GDP losses range from 0.5 to 5.9%, contingent on the hazard's characteristics, volume, and potential for local recovery. The analysis shows how initial impacts are multiplied by cross-border spillovers and supply chain disruption cascading effects. Recovery pathways show considerable variation, with insurance density, mitigating infrastructure quality, and institutional strength being the primary correlates of economic strength, according to panel regression with fixed effects estimates. Areas that implement effective and comprehensive disaster risk reduction programs experience recovery times that are as much as 42% shorter. Additionally, the estimates show that ex-ante investments in active risk management can easily outperform ex-post post-disaster reconstruction expenditures, with benefit-cost ratios ranging from 4 to 7:1.
Geological Hazards; Economic Resilience; Regional Development; Pacific Ring of Fire; Disaster Risk Reduction.
Research Status and Development Trends of Contemporary Chinese Medical History and Environmental History in the Context of the Healthy China Strategy
People's health is related to the health of the nation and social stability, and health is one of the ultimate goals pursued by all humanity. The study of medical geography is closely linked with the development of the living environment and is a core aspect of human geography in exploring the human-environment relationship. Currently, academia considers the history of medicine as part of environmental research and temporarily divides the study of medical and health history into four main categories: first, exploring the spatial and temporal distribution and evolutionary mechanisms of diseases in historical periods; second, examining the spread and prevention of diseases in historical periods; third, analyzing the relationship and mechanisms between diseases, ecological environment, and social changes; and fourth, focusing on the game relationship between humans and diseases in historical periods. This paper briefly outlines the representative scholars and their achievements in these four categories and uses CiteSpace software to conduct a literature analysis of contemporary Chinese medical geography, medical history, environmental history, and disaster history, outlining the development trajectory and research directions of contemporary Chinese medical environmental history.
History of Medicine; Environmental HistoryHistorical Health Geography; CiteSpace.
BP-CNN-Based Study on the Hierarchical Classification of Soil Nematode Communities in Tea Gardens of the Qinba Mountains
To achieve efficient and precise classification of nematode community distribution in tea garden soils of the Qinba Mountains, this study integrated a backpropagation neural network (BP-NN) with a convolutional neural network (CNN) to construct a BP-CNN model, which was applied to assess soil health in tea gardens within this region. Multiple gradient sampling points were established in typical tea gardens across the Qinba Mountains. Samples were collected at varying altitudes and soil types to obtain nematode community species composition, abundance, and environmental factor data. Using nematode community characteristics as input and soil health grades as output, the BP-CNN model was constructed. CNN extracted deep features from the data, while BP-NN performed classification predictions. The model was validated against standalone BP-NN and CNN models. Results indicate the BP-CNN model achieved a grading accuracy of [XX%], significantly outperforming single models. Tea garden soil nematode communities in the Qinba Mountains can be classified into [X] grades, each corresponding to specific soil physicochemical properties and elevation ranges. The abundance of dominant groups such as bacteriophagous nematodes and fungivorous nematodes serves as a core indicator for grading. This study demonstrates that the BP-CNN model can effectively classify nematode communities in tea garden soils within this region, providing a tool for intelligent soil health assessment. Its classification results also offer scientific basis for tea garden soil management.
Tea Garden Soil; Soil Nematode Community; BP-CNN; Soil Health Assessment; Qinba Mountains.
Research on the Legalization of Living Will Systems
The living will system, which safeguards patients' dignity and medical freedom, has received increasing attention from the public. Many people are calling for the protection of their medical freedom and right to die under the regulation of legal systems. The first part of this article introduces the connotation of the advance directive system and traces its origin and development; the second part discusses the legislative basis of the advance directive system in our country; the third part provides a detailed overview of the current situation of the advance directive system in our country; the fourth part examines the potential issues that may arise from implementing the advance directive system in our country; and the final part summarizes the suggested improvements to address these issues. This article aims to provide recommendations for the implementation of the advance directive system in our country to better protect patients' autonomy in medical decisions and their dignity.
Living Will; Patient Autonomy; Legislation.
Institutional Constraints and Reform Pathways for the Revitalization of Chinese Women’s Football
To address the developmental challenges hindering the revival of Chinese women's football, this study employs documentary analysis and interviews to investigate the underlying factors from an institutional perspective. The findings reveal that the core issues stem from the dual failure of the state-led "whole-nation system" and the market mechanism. These are manifested through four institutional dilemmas: ambiguous division of responsibilities among governance bodies, a fractured youth training system, a pseudo-professional league structure, and inadequate athlete support mechanisms. These factors are intertwined, creating a path-dependent cycle that perpetuates systemic inefficiencies. Accordingly, the study proposes institutional reconstruction as the fundamental solution, encompassing: 1) establishing a polycentric governance model with shared responsibilities; 2) deepening the integration of sports and education to rebuild talent pipelines; 3) advancing genuine commercial operation of leagues; and 4) strengthening athlete protection and incentive systems.
Chinese Women 's Football; Institutional Dilemma; Development Path; Institutional Mechanisms.
Research on the Measurement Index System for the High-Quality Development Level of Urban Gas Enterprises
This study developed a systematic measurement framework to evaluate the high-quality development of urban gas enterprises. Drawing on the current status of China’s gas industry and guided by five development principles-innovation-driven, coordinated, green, open, and inclusive development-a comprehensive and multi-dimensional indicator system is constructed. The CRITIC–entropy combined weighting method is employed to determine indicator weights objectively, and the TOPSIS model is used to assess the overall development level of enterprises. The results indicate a steady upward trend in development quality across sectors. Through obstacle degree analysis, this study further identifies the main factors constraining progress, offering theoretical and empirical references for decision-making and performance improvement in urban gas enterprises.
Urban Gas; High-quality Development; Evaluation System; Obstacle Factors.
Research on Aquatic Animal Behavior and Environmentally Friendly Fishing Techniques
The research on “Aquatic Animal Behavior and Environmentally Friendly Fishing Techniques” aims to achieve sustainable fisheries development by understanding the behavioral patterns of aquatic animals during fishing operations and designing fishing gear and methods with high selectivity and minimal environmental impact. This research, grounded in fish behavioral responses to external stimuli like sound, light, and electricity, has been pursued internationally for decades. Advances in observation technology have led to the development of various devices (e.g., TEDs, BRDs) that reduce bycatch and protect juvenile fish. Current research has identified key factors affecting post-capture fish survival rates (e.g., entrapment duration, hook type) and explored leveraging behavioral differences (e.g., using ultrasound to deter dolphins) to enhance selectivity. However, existing studies are largely confined to single-stimulus experiments, with limited understanding of deeper mechanisms such as multi-factor interactions in complex marine environments, fish schooling communication, and behavioral perception. Future research must transition from single-factor analysis to comprehensive multi-factor studies, delving deeper into fish behavioral mechanisms. On one hand, this foundation should drive the development of novel eco-friendly fishing gear and establish a theoretical framework for resource conservation. On the other hand, economically viable and easily scalable fishing solutions must be proposed. Through pilot demonstrations, these efforts should tangibly enhance the ecological efficiency and sustainable development of China's coastal and offshore fishing industries.
Fish Behavior; Fishing Methods; Bycatch; Sustainable Development.
Vulnerability Assessment of the Natural Gas Financial Market Against the Backdrop of the European Energy Crisis
The European energy crisis revealed the fragility between energy markets and the financial system. The Russia–Ukraine conflict and supply cuts drove extreme volatility in natural gas prices, with Germany, the most dependent on Russian gas, facing severe shocks. Uniper, the country’s largest gas importer, suffered soaring procurement costs while price controls limited revenues, leading to a liquidity crisis and eventual state takeover. This study reviews the causes of the crisis and applies a modified Z-score model with Monte Carlo simulation to Uniper’s financial data from 2019–2023 to assess the impact of price regulation on debt-servicing capacity. Results indicate that price shocks and policy intervention jointly weakened financial health, as cash flow deficits and worsening leverage became key risk drivers. The modified model better reflects the fragility of energy firms under regulation compared to the traditional model, while Monte Carlo simulation shows a persistent probability of high-risk outcomes even after government rescue. The findings confirm financial fragility theory, suggesting that interventions may delay but cannot eliminate risks, and offer insights for balancing energy security with financial stability in China.
Energy Crisis; Price Control; Financial Fragility; Z-Score Model; Monte Carlo Simulation; Uniper.
Controlling Factors on Reservoir Quality of the Miocene in the Northern Yinggehai Area, Yinggehai Basin
With the increasing maturity of exploration in proven areas and main pay zones of the Yinggehai Basin, frontier zones and new formations have progressively become the focus of attention. The Northern Yinggehai area, situated on the northern margin of the Yinggehai Depression, possesses significant exploration potential; however, it remains under-explored, and systematic studies on its depositional systems and reservoir development are still lacking. Based on core observations, thin-section petrography, well-logging and mud-logging data, and geochemical analyses, reservoir characteristics of the HK2 and LG35 blocks were investigated to elucidate the principal controls on reservoir development. The results indicate that late-stage high-temperature and rapid burial compaction, together with authigenic clay minerals and carbonate cementation, represent the dominant factors governing reservoir quality evolution.
Yinggehai Basin; Northern Yinggehai Area; Reservoir-controlling Factors; Diagenesis.
Transformation and Transformation of Accounting Professional Talent Training in the Era of Digital Intelligence
As human society enters the 21st century, the world economy is entering a period of development dominated by digital intelligence technology, especially China, which is at the forefront of the world in the development and application of digital intelligence technology. In the era of digital intelligence, the accounting environment has become more volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. Digital intelligence technology has brought unprecedented impact and shock to accounting theory and higher accounting education. The social demand for accounting talents has also changed, and the demand for high-end accounting talents will increase significantly. In order to meet the demand for high-end accounting talents in the era of digital intelligence, Anhui University of Finance and Economics has opened an experimental class for intelligent accounting micro majors, which has conducted a beneficial exploration of the transformation and transformation of accounting professional talent cultivation. There are also many problems in this process, mainly reflected in the mismatch between the training mode and social needs, the imperfect curriculum system, and the inability of the teaching staff to meet the requirements of the times. Finally, the article proposes countermeasures and suggestions for the transformation and transformation of accounting professional talent cultivation.
Era of Digital Intelligence; Big Data; Artificial Intelligence; High End Accounting Talents; Talent Cultivation.
Review and Outlook on Simulation Studies of Fracture Propagation in Segmented Multi-Cluster Fracturing of Coal Seam Roofs
As a clean and efficient unconventional natural gas resource, coalbed methane serves as a vital safeguard for China's energy transition and coal mine safety. Over 95% of China's high-gas mines face technical bottlenecks in low-permeability coalbed methane extraction efficiency, where conventional underground extraction technologies struggle to meet development demands in deep, fragmented, and soft coal seams. The horizontal top-wall multi-cluster fracturing technology for coal seams-involving horizontal well placement in the roof and multi-cluster segmented fracturing-induces fractures to penetrate and extend into the coal seam, forming complex fracture networks that enhance gas migration pathways. This has become one of the core technologies for efficient development of low-permeability coalbed methane. The fracture propagation patterns-including initiation locations, propagation paths, fracture network morphology, and interlayer penetration capabilities-directly determine fracturing effectiveness. Numerical simulation has become a core research tool in this field due to its ability to quantify coupled geological-engineering factors and dynamically reproduce fracture propagation processes.
Coal Seam Roof; Staged Multi-Cluster Fracturing; Fracture Propagation; Numerical Simulation.
AI Empowerment and Measurement: Reconstructing the Enterprise Digital Maturity Model and its Implications for Service Ecosystem
In the current context of artificial intelligence driving economic digital transformation, enterprise digital maturity has become a critical foundation for creating shared value and enhancing competitiveness within service ecosystems. Existing maturity models often fail to adequately reflect the fundamental changes brought about by AI technology, necessitating that enterprises continuously adjust their business strategies to align with the requirements of service ecosystem development and value co-creation. Digital maturity measures a company's capabilities in integrating digital technologies, data-driven decision-making, and process optimization, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and market responsiveness while connecting consumers, partners, and the entire ecosystem network. This study constructs an AI-enabled digital maturity model encompassing three dimensions: people enhancement, product-driven innovation, and marketing empowerment. It focuses on analyzing the underlying mechanisms through which value co-creation drives a company's competitive advantage. This direction will approach the topic from a theoretical perspective, focusing on how AI technology reshapes the connotations and measurement standards of AI-driven digital maturity: AI-Enhanced People capability, AI-Driven Product Innovation,and AI-Enabled Marketing Empowerment: AI-Enhanced People capability focuses on leveraging AI technologies such as user profiling, behavioral modelling, and social vitality to achieve deep user insights, ecosystem construction, and intelligent interaction capabilities, while emphasizing the use of privacy computing technologies like federated learning to establish a balance between data development and privacy protection; AI-Driven Product Power emphasizes the intelligence of products and adaptive service capabilities enabled by embedded AI functionalities; AI-Enabled Marketing Empowerment focuses on the effectiveness of ultra-personalised customer insights, precise targeting, and automated interaction based on AI algorithms, and how to upgrade 'AI-Enabled Marketing Empowerment' from traditional broad coverage to 'precise targeting and value prediction capabilities' centred on data intelligence.
Artificial Intelligence (AI); Digital Maturity; Value Co-creation; Competitive Advantage; Service Ecosystem.
Analysis of Ethical Dilemmas and Avoidance Strategies in the Application of Artificial Intelligence in International Chinese Language Education
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into International Chinese Language Education (ICLE) heralds a paradigm shift, offering unprecedented opportunities for personalized learning, resource accessibility, and pedagogical efficiency. However, this technological advancement is not without its perils. This paper provides a comprehensive conceptual analysis of the multifaceted ethical dilemmas emerging from the application of AI in the ICLE domain. It eschews quantitative analysis in favor of a deep theoretical exploration of the inherent challenges. The core ethical predicaments are identified and categorized into four principal domains: (1) algorithmic bias and the perpetuation of cultural hegemony, which risk marginalizing linguistic and cultural diversity; (2) data privacy infringements and the potential for pervasive learner surveillance, which compromise learner autonomy and security; (3) pedagogical dehumanization and the erosion of the educator's humanistic role, threatening the socio-affective dimensions of language acquisition; and (4) the opacity of AI systems, leading to critical issues of accountability and transparency. In response to these challenges, this paper formulates a corresponding framework of proactive avoidance and mitigation strategies. These strategies advocate for the cultivation of algorithmic fairness through diverse data stewardship, the establishment of robust data governance protocols grounded in ethical design, the reaffirmation of humanistic pedagogy through a "human-in-the-loop" model, and the enhancement of systemic transparency and accountability. The paper concludes that a technologically deterministic approach is untenable. Instead, a critically reflective and ethically grounded integration of AI is imperative to ensure that its deployment in ICLE serves to enrich, rather than undermine, the fundamental humanistic goals of language education and intercultural communication.
Artificial Intelligence (AI); International Chinese Language Education (ICLE); Ethical Dilemmas; Algorithmic Bias; Data Privacy; Humanistic Pedagogy; AI Ethics; EdTech Governance.
On the Measurement and Improvement Strategies of New Quality Productivity in Chinese Rural Areas
Based on the dialectical relationship between productive forces and production relations, economic base and superstructure in Marxist political economy, this article constructs an indicator system that includes five dimensions: rural new quality workers, labor materials, labor objects, rural governance, and rural culture. Using entropy weight method, Dagum Gini coefficient, and obstacle degree model, the development level of rural new quality productive forces at the provincial level in China from 2012 to 2022 is measured and analyzed. Research shows that the overall productivity of rural areas in China is on the rise, with an average annual growth rate of about 20%. However, the overall level is still relatively low, and there is a non-equilibrium pattern of "eastern>central ≈ western>northeast" among regions; The obstacle level of rural governance is the highest (0.3856), becoming the core constraint factor, followed by insufficient quality of workers and low level of digitalization of labor materials. Differential decomposition indicates that regional differences are the main source of overall differences, and structural barriers are mainly reflected in weak rural e-commerce ecosystems, low agricultural production efficiency, and insufficient cultural resource transformation. Based on this, it is proposed to systematically promote the cultivation of new quality workers, the digital upgrading of labor materials, the diversified expansion of labor objects, the innovation of rural governance mechanisms, and the construction of rural cultural ecology. Differentiated regional strategies should be implemented to promote the comprehensive improvement of new quality productive forces, help rural revitalization and common prosperity.
New Quality Productive Forces; Marxist Political Economy; Rural Governance; Rural Culture; Entropy Weight Method.
Research Progress and Prospects of Intelligent Well Completion Technology
Intelligent well completion technology, as a key means to enhance the efficiency of oil and gas field development, has evolved from its early exploratory phase into a mainstream solution encompassing three major technical types: hydraulic control, electric control, and electro-hydraulic composite control. The core of this technological system lies in the integration of key elements such as downhole monitoring, downhole control, data transmission, and the surface control center. Through its large-scale application in numerous oil fields worldwide, it has significantly improved oil and gas recovery rates and extraction efficiency. In recent years, research has focused on improving the system's long-term operational stability, control precision, and the integration of data acquisition systems. However, the field still faces key challenges, including the long-term reliability of hydraulic systems, bottlenecks in electric flow control technology, and optimization of complex electro-hydraulic composite control systems. This review aims to systematically outline the development trajectory of intelligent well completion technology from its initial exploration to the current multi-type approach, analyze its application outcomes and frontier trends, and deeply examine the practical challenges it faces, with the goal of providing industry decision-makers with a comprehensive technical evolution map, clarifying future development trends, and identifying potential technological breakthroughs.
Intelligent Well Completion Technology; Hydraulic-Controlled Intelligent Well Completion; Electric-Controlled Intelligent Well Completion; Electro-Hydraulic Composite Intelligent Well Completion; Current Status of Technology.
Research on the Impact of the Opening of the China-Europe Freight Train on the Internationalization of Chinese Enterprises
Basedon the data of Chinese listed companies from 2000 to 2022, this paper systematically investigates the impact effect and mechanism of the opening of China-Europe trains on the internationalization of enterprises by using the multi-period double difference method (DID) and Heckman selection model, taking 2007-2019 as the main sample, and making robust expansion from 2000 to 2022. The results show that the opening of the China-Europe Express has significantly promoted the internationalization process of enterprises along the route, increased the probability of foreign direct investment by 18.7%, and increased the proportion of sales in overseas markets by an average of 23.5%. The mechanism analysis shows that the China-Europe freight train mainly promotes the internationalization of enterprises by reducing logistics costs, expanding market scope and optimizing supply chain layout. Heterogeneity analysis shows that the China-Europe Express plays a more significant role in promoting the internationalization of enterprises, small and medium-sized enterprises and manufacturing enterprises in inland areas. This study provides micro evidence for the economic effects of infrastructure construction under the Belt and Road Initiative, and also provides a new perspective for enterprise internationalization strategy formulation.
China-Europe Freight Train; Enterprise Internationalization; Belt and Road; Logistics Cost.
Sedimentary Facies Characteristics and Hydrocarbon Accumulation Model of the Chang 2 Member in the Antaolin Area, Ordos Basin
The Chang 2 Member of the Triassic Yanchang Formation is an important oil-bearing interval in the Ordos Basin, and it serves as one of the key targets for tight oil exploration and development in China. The Antaolin area, located in the central part of the northern Shaanxi slope, exhibits relatively low well control but demonstrates good hydrocarbon potential based on drilling and testing results. In this study, core, well logging, thin section, and experimental data were comprehensively integrated to analyze the stratigraphic division, sedimentary facies, reservoir petrology and physical properties, and hydrocarbon accumulation characteristics of the Chang 2 Member in the Antaolin area. The results indicate that the Chang 2 Member was deposited during the stage of lake basin shrinkage and extinction, dominated by a delta depositional system, particularly the delta front subfacies. Subfacies types mainly include subaqueous distributary channels, mouth bars, interdistributary bays, and sheet sands, with sand bodies trending NE–SW. Subaqueous distributary channel and mouth bar sand bodies serve as the major reservoir units. Lithologically, the reservoirs are dominated by feldspathic sandstones, with cementation mainly by calcite and chlorite. Pore types include intergranular residual pores, dissolution pores, moldic pores, and microfractures. Reservoir properties are characterized by low porosity and low permeability, with strong heterogeneity. Hydrocarbon accumulation is controlled by the “source below, reservoir above” assemblage, with structural–lithological composite traps serving as the main trap type. Multiple charging events occurred, with late-stage charging playing a dominant role in accumulation. Based on the integration of depositional, structural, and diagenetic characteristics, a hydrocarbon accumulation model for the Chang 2 Member in the Antaolin area was established, providing a geological basis for future exploration and development.
Ordos Basin; Antaolin Area; Chang 2 Member; Sedimentary Facies; Hydrocarbon Accumulation.
The Impact of "Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastics" on Carbon Emissions under the Background of the Digital Economy
Against the backdrop of global climate change, worsening plastic pollution, and China’s advancement of the "Dual Carbon" strategy, "bamboo substitution for plastics" has become a green path with both ecological and economic value, while the digital economy provides key support for its efficient implementation. Based on panel data from 92 bamboo-rich counties in the Yangtze River Basin from 2015 to 2023, this study employs SARAR spatial econometric model, cost-benefit analysis (CBA), panel regression, and a green development indicator system to explore the mechanism and carbon emission reduction effect of the digital economy empowering "bamboo substitution for plastics".
Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastics; Digital Economy; Carbon Emission Reduction; Panel Data; SARAR Model.
Research on the Enhancement Path of Enterprises' Green Innovation Capability from an Adaptive Structuration Perspective
Tariff wars and decoupling policies have triggered profound adjustments in global supply chains. As the core entities within these supply chains, manufacturing enterprises play a crucial role in addressing global sustainable development challenges through their green innovation capabilities. This paper employs Adaptive Structuration Theory as the theoretical analytical framework. Focusing on 89 automotive manufacturing enterprises from 2019 to 2023, it utilizes the dynamic Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) method to explore the enhancement paths driving the green innovation capability of these enterprises from a configurational perspective. The results indicate that: (1) No single antecedent condition can constitute a necessary condition for enhancing enterprises' green innovation capability on its own; (2) Achieving high-level green innovation capability requires specific configurations, where ESG culture is a key factor and the allocation of green attention is an important factor. Specifically, there are five paths leading to high-level green innovation capability, which can be categorized into three driving modes: "Technology-Organization Mutual Construction," "Organization-Led Adaptation," and "Tripartite-Structure Synergy"; (3) The time effect is not significant in the configurations for high-level green innovation capability, while the case effect is significant in some configurations. This research contributes to understanding the complex relationships involved in enhancing corporate green innovation capability and offers theoretical and practical value for automotive manufacturing enterprises striving to achieve green development.
Green Innovation Capability; Adaptive Structuration Theory; Dynamic QCA; Automotive Manufacturing Enterprises.
Research on the Inter-Provincial Horizontal Benefit Compensation Mechanism for Grain Production and Sales Areas under the Background of National Food Security
Food security is a major concern that relates to the national economy and people's livelihoods. Food production is the foundation for ensuring food security and guaranteeing national safety. The effective establishment and implementation of a benefit compensation mechanism for food production and sales regions not only pertains to an in-depth assessment of the effectiveness of national fiscal transfer payment means but also involves the stability of international food security, the construction of a new regional development pattern, the coordinated development of food production and sales areas, and the reasonable compensation for the interests of major food-producing areas. This paper analyzes the four major pain points facing inter-provincial horizontal benefit compensation in food production and sales areas: unclear compensation subjects, insufficient compensation intensity, lack of precision in compensation, an imperfect market mechanism, a single mode of production and sales cooperation, and a lack of scientific top-level system design. Meanwhile, it designs a benefit compensation mechanism for food production and sales areas from four aspects: scientifically determining compensation intensity, constructing a market framework to establish a national-level trading platform and rule system, exploring multi-dimensional cooperation models in food production and sales areas, and establishing a system framework of 'clear rights and responsibilities for central and local entities with multi-subject co-governance.' The aim is to provide feasible suggestions and policy references for promoting the coordinated development of food production and sales regions and ensuring national food security.
National Food Security; Market Mechanism; Benefit Compensation; Top-level System Design.