bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spearmint Extract as a Sustainable Corrosion Inhibitor Through Advanced Spray Coating Applications
Authors: Iglesias Manuela Salazar , Suárez León Maria Valentina , Pineda Hernandez Daniel Alejandro , Arango Arango Pedro José , Jiménez García Francy Nelly , Restrepo Parra Elisabeth
Published: December 2024

In this research, the high efficacy of Mentha spicata L. extract, commonly known as spearmint, as a corrosion inhibitor with an efficacy rate of 86.98% is highlighted. Analytical techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to obtain a detailed morphological view, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to identify the functional groups of flavonoids, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Tafel plots for a corrosion assessment, were employed. This study pioneers a greener alternative to traditional corrosion inhibition methods. The distinctive aspect of this research is the innovative spray coating application method used to deliver the spearmint extract onto structural steel. This method involves the strategic use of an airbrush for spray coating, ensuring the uniform and efficient deposition of the organic inhibitor, thus forming a protective barrier against corrosion. This spray coating technique is emerging as an innovative approach for the industrial application of natural corrosion inhibitors, demonstrating significant advances in the corrosion resistance of coated steel. The results not only corroborate the efficacy of natural inhibitors, but also highlight the critical role that sophisticated application techniques play in improving their industrial viability. This methodological innovation presents a pathway to sustainable practices in corrosion management, prioritizing environmental protection and ecological footprint reduction in the quest for corrosion mitigation.
Finite-Difference Time-Domain Simulation of Double-Ridge Superimposed Structures for Optimizing Light-Trapping Characteristics in Ternary Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Xiaoxiang , Song Jinglin , Tan Weijun , Chen Jing , Chen Mingxin , Li Fen , Li Chang , Yu Zhuoliang
Published: December 2024

The double-ridge superimposed structures (DRSSs), formed by the superposition of a nano-ridged textured ZnO layer and a ternary organic active layer (PTB7:PC70BM:PC60BM) with self-assembled nano-ridged (SANR) structures, have been preliminarily examined experimentally for its positive effects in light-trapping for organic solar cells (OSCs). To obtain DRSSs with higher-performance light-trapping effects and enhance the light absorption of OSCs, the present work carried out prior theoretical simulations of the light-trapping characteristics of the DRSS using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) algorithm. The results show that the DRSS exhibits a significant light-trapping effect, with an active layer absorption peak around 530 nm due to the light-trapping effect. This helps the active layer capture more high-energy photons, significantly enhancing the photon utilization of the DRSS. Interestingly, the intensity of the light-trapping absorption peak is solely dependent on the height or width of the active layer ridges in the DRSS, while the position of the peak is jointly determined by both the ZnO and active layer ridges. By controlling the aspect ratio (W/H) of the dual ridges, the light-trapping absorption peak position can be fine-tuned, enabling precise light-trapping management for specific wavelength bands. It is certain that the outcomes of this work will provide theoretical foundations and practical guidance for the fabrication of light-trapping OSCs.
First Principle Analysis on Elastic and Mechanical Behavior of High-Pressure Hexagonal MgZn2 Phase
Authors: Xiao Chuncai , Yang Baiyuan , Lai Zhangli , Zeng Xianshi , Chen Zhiquan , Zhou Yunzhi , Wu Donglan
Published: December 2024

There is a paucity of previous related studies exploring hexagonal MgZn2 in high-pressure environments. This study systematically analyzes the mechanical behavior of MgZn2 hexagonal alloys under high-pressure conditions using first principle calculations, bridging the gap in research in this area in the field. The results reveal that, with increasing pressure, the crystallite spacing (a/a0,c/c0) and ratio of volumes (V/V0) decrease significantly, indicating the structural condensation of the material under high pressure. Elastic constant analysis showed a notable enhancement in all constants, except for C13. Among them, C11 increased from 87.399 GPa to 311.45 GPa, and C33 increased from 135.279 GPa to 341.739 GPa, showing a faster growth rate, suggesting improved tensile strength in the material along the tensile direction. Mechanical stability assessments confirmed that the alloy remains stable over the 0 to 30 GPa pressure range. Further material characterization indicated that Poisson’s ratio remained above 0.26 at pressures from 0 to 30 GPa, suggesting excellent ductility and agreeing with the ratio of the shear modulus to the bulk modulus. As the pressure increases, both the hardness and sound velocity of MgZn2 increase, while the degree of anisotropy decreases. The present work gives important insights on the mechanical behavior of MgZn2 under high pressure, contributing to its application and property optimization.
Beta Diversity Is Better—Microhabitat Diversity and Multiplet Diversity Offer Novel Insights into Plant Coexistence in Grassland Restoration
Authors: Bartha Sándor , Házi Judit , Purger Dragica , Zimmermann Zita , Szabó Gábor , Guller Zsófia Eszter , Csathó András István , Csete Sándor
Published: December 2024

Quantifying within-community variability and understanding the related assembly rules are important in developing and assessing grassland restoration. Beta diversity has great potential, revealing mechanisms behind community-level changes in succession. Here, we introduce two simple beta diversity indices: Microhabitat Diversity is the Shannon diversity of patches formed by the locally dominant species, and Multiplet Diversity is the Shannon diversity of subordinate species richness categories detected at a fine scale. Using null models, we tested the biotic filtering effects of dominants on the distribution of subordinates. Based on long-term vegetation monitoring data, we tested the utility of these models in grassland restoration. Sites sown with seed mixture and developing spontaneously were compared and used as test data for exploring the proposed indices. Microhabitat Diversity was larger at spontaneously developing sites, and its local maxima reflected reorganization in the mosaic structure of the community. Species richness categories with zero or one subordinate species were typical in sown grassland, while small 5 cm × 5 cm microsites where 2, 3, or 4 subordinate species co-occured were more frequent in spontaneous succession. Contrary to expectation, a slight convergence of beta diversity measures was revealed after 15 years of succession between passive and active restorations. Microhabitat Diversity and Multiplet Diversity are simple indices that complement existing methods and provide new insights into grassland restoration.
Opportunistic Screening for Osteoporosis by CT as Compared with DXA
Authors: Chaisen Molaya , Sritara Chanika , Chitrapazt Niyata , Suppasilp Chaiyawat , Chamroonrat Wichana , Promma Sasivimol , Kositwattanarerk Arpakorn , Sakulpisuti Chaninart , Thamnirat Kanungnij
Published: December 2024

Background: Osteoporosis is commonly evaluated using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for bone mineral density (BMD). Non-contrast computed tomography (CT) scans provide an alternative for opportunistic osteoporosis assessment. This study aimed to evaluate screening thresholds for osteoporosis based on CT attenuation values in Hounsfield units (HU) of L1–L4 vertebrae from CT scans of the abdominal region, compared to DXA assessments of the lumbar spine and hips. Methods: Conducted retrospectively over approximately two years, the analysis included 109 patients who had both CT and DXA scans within 12 months, excluding those with metal artifacts affecting the vertebrae. CT attenuation values in the trabecular region of the vertebrae were measured and compared among three groups based on the lowest T-score from DXA. Results: In a predominantly female cohort (mean age 66.3 years), the lowest CT attenuation values for L1–L4 vertebrae showed a moderate correlation with the lowest T-score, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.542 (95% CI: 0.388, 0.667). A HU threshold of ≤142 at the L1 vertebra showed 91.9% sensitivity and 48.4% specificity, while a threshold of ≤160 HU showed 97.3% sensitivity and 31.3% specificity for screening osteoporosis. Conclusions: This study supports the use of non-contrast CT with these HU thresholds as an opportunistic tool for osteoporosis assessment.
Comparison of Vendor-Pretrained and Custom-Trained Deep Learning Segmentation Models for Head-and-Neck, Breast, and Prostate Cancers
Authors: Chen Xinru , Zhao Yao , Baroudi Hana , El Basha Mohammad D. , Daniel Aji , Gay Skylar S. , Yu Cenji , Wang He , Phan Jack , Choi Seungtaek L. , Goodman Chelain R. , Zhang Xiaodong , Niedzielski Joshua S. , Shete Sanjay S. , Court Laurence E. , Liao Zhongxing , Löfman Fredrik , Balter Peter A. , Yang Jinzhong
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: We assessed the influence of local patients and clinical characteristics on the performance of commercial deep learning (DL) segmentation models for head-and-neck (HN), breast, and prostate cancers. Methods: Clinical computed tomography (CT) scans and clinically approved contours of 210 patients (53 HN, 49 left breast, 55 right breast, and 53 prostate cancer) were used to train and validate segmentation models integrated within a vendor-supplied DL training toolkit and to assess the performance of both vendor-pretrained and custom-trained models. Four custom models (HN, left breast, right breast, and prostate) were trained and validated with 30 (training)/5 (validation) HN, 34/5 left breast, 39/5 right breast, and 30/5 prostate patients to auto-segment a total of 24 organs at risk (OARs). Subsequently, both vendor-pretrained and custom-trained models were tested on the remaining patients from each group. Auto-segmented contours were evaluated by comparing them with clinically approved contours via the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and mean surface distance (MSD). The performance of the left and right breast models was assessed jointly according to ipsilateral/contralateral locations. Results: The average DSCs for all structures in vendor-pretrained and custom-trained models were as follows: 0.81 ± 0.12 and 0.86 ± 0.11 in HN; 0.67 ± 0.16 and 0.80 ± 0.11 in the breast; and 0.87 ± 0.09 and 0.92 ± 0.06 in the prostate. The corresponding average MSDs were 0.81 ± 0.76 mm and 0.76 ± 0.56 mm (HN), 4.85 ± 2.44 mm and 2.42 ± 1.49 mm (breast), and 2.17 ± 1.39 mm and 1.21 ± 1.00 mm (prostate). Notably, custom-trained models showed significant improvements over vendor-pretrained models for 14 of 24 OARs, reflecting the influence of data/contouring variations in segmentation performance. Conclusions: These findings underscore the substantial impact of institutional preferences and clinical practices on the implementation of vendor-pretrained models. We also found that a relatively small amount of institutional data was sufficient to train customized segmentation models with sufficient accuracy.
Differences in the Microvascular Arrangement Lead to Improved Clinical Diagnostics of Esophageal Neoplasms: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Minami Ryogo , Noma Eriko , Moriguchi Yoshiaki , Horiguchi Shinichiro , Iizuka Toshiro
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Superficial esophageal cancer is diagnosed by evaluating the vascular architecture, including dilation, tortuosity, caliber change, and shape, of a lesion. However, this diagnosis is subjective and requires extensive experience. Endoscopically distinguishing squamous intraepithelial neoplasia (SIN) from esophageal cancer is difficult. Thus far, only a few studies have described the endoscopic findings of SIN. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate whether endoscopic observation of the vascular architecture of tumors is useful in differentiating SIN from superficial esophageal cancer (SCC). Methods: This study included 141 patients who were histopathologically diagnosed with SIN or SCC between 2007 and 2023. Based on endoscopic images, patients were divided into those with a regular vascular arrangement (regular group) and those with an irregular vascular arrangement (irregular group). After evaluating the clinical characteristics, propensity score matching was used to assess the association between the groups and their pathological diagnoses. Results: Of the 141 patients, 44 and 97 were in the regular and irregular groups, respectively, with a ratio of 1:2. After propensity score matching, 33 and 66 patients were included in the regular and irregular groups, respectively. There were no significant differences between the groups after matching for age, alcohol consumption, smoking status, lesion site, sex, or lesion size. The regular group had significantly more patients with SIN, whereas the irregular group had significantly more patients with esophageal cancer (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The regularity of the vascular architecture may be useful for endoscopically distinguishing between SIN and esophageal cancer.
The Boltzmann Equation and Its Place in the Edifice of Statistical Mechanics
Authors: Werndl Charlotte , Frigg Roman
Published: December 2024

It is customary to classify approaches in statistical mechanics (SM) as belonging either to Boltzmanninan SM (BSM) or Gibbsian SM (GSM). It is, however, unclear how the Boltzmann equation (BE) fits into either of these approaches. To discuss the relation between BE and BSM, we first present a version of BSM that differs from standard presentation in that it uses local field variables to individuate macro-states, and we then show that BE is a special case of BSM thus understood. To discuss the relation between BE and GSM, we focus on the BBGKY hierarchy and note the version of the BE that follows from the hierarchy is “Gibbsian” only in the minimal sense that it operates with an invariant measure on the state space of the full system.
My Interests Are (Y)ours? A Multilevel Social Network Analysis of the Co-Evolution of Adolescents’ Interests and Friendships
Authors: Beek Gregorius Johannes , Bronkhorst Larike Henriëtte , Stark Tobias H. , Akkerman Sanne Floor
Published: December 2024

Both interests and peer relations are crucial for adolescents in finding out who they are and want to be as a person. Yet, our knowledge of the co-evolution of friendships and interests is limited to studies focusing on single interest domains and/or practices predetermined by researchers. A total of 1599 Dutch adolescents participated in this study, which employs a unique design to examine the co-evolution of all participant-defined interests and in- and out-of-school friendships. In total, 368 specific interest areas were identified. Multilevel social network analyses (i.e., using multivariate stochastic actor-oriented models) of a subsample of 935 adolescents in seven schools indicate that adolescents are more likely, over time, to have similar interests to their friends. Interests that were reported rarely or very often contributed less to these dynamics. Additionally, being similarly interested increased the likelihood of being friends. Our findings show that social structures are related to interest development and how being interested is mediated by the places and spaces of adolescents’ lives.
KidneyNet: A Novel CNN-Based Technique for the Automated Diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Diseases from CT Scans
Authors: Almuayqil Saleh Naif , Abd El-Ghany Sameh , Abd El-Aziz A. A. , Elmogy Mohammed
Published: December 2024

This study presents KidneyNet, an innovative computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) system designed to identify chronic kidney diseases (CKDs), such as kidney stones, cysts, and tumors, in CT scans. KidneyNet utilizes a convolutional neural network (CNN) structure consisting of eight convolutional layers, three pooling layers, a flattening layer, and two fully connected layers. Small filters enhance computational efficiency by reducing the number of parameters and minimizing the risk of overfitting compared to larger filters. The model captures more complex and abstract features as data move through the layers. The initial layers identify basic patterns, while the deeper layers focus on more intricate representations. KidneyNet aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of kidney disease diagnosis. Additionally, the model incorporates the gradient-weighted class activation mapping (Grad-CAM) algorithm, which helps to pinpoint affected areas in the scans. This feature improves interpretability, allowing clinicians to identify which regions the model deemed significant for detecting abnormalities such as tumors, cysts, or stones. Through extensive testing on a CT kidney dataset, KidneyNet demonstrated impressive performance metrics, with 99.88% accuracy, 99.92% specificity, 99.76% sensitivity, 99.58% precision, and an F1 score of 99.67%, outperforming existing models. This approach alleviates the diagnostic burden on radiologists and promotes early detection, potentially saving lives. This study highlights the critical role of advanced imaging analysis in addressing kidney conditions and emphasizes KidneyNet’s capability to deliver precise and cost-effective diagnoses.
Blood Cell Target Detection Based on Improved YOLOv5 Algorithm
Authors: Song Xuan , Tang Hongyan
Published: December 2024

In the medical field, blood analysis is a key method used to evaluate the health status of the human body. The types and number of blood cells serve as important criteria for doctors to diagnose and treat diseases. In view of the problems regarding difficult classification and low efficiency in blood cell detection, this paper proposes an improved YOLOv5-BS blood cell target detection algorithm. The purpose of the improvement is to enhance the real-time performance and accuracy of blood cell type recognition. The algorithm is based on YOLOv5s as the basic network, incorporating the advantages of both CNN and Transformer architectures. First, the BotNet backbone network is incorporated. Then the YOLOv5 head architecture is replaced with the Decoupled Head structure. Finally, a new loss function SIoU is used to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the model. To detect the feasibility of the algorithm, a comparative experiment was conducted. The experiment shows that the improved algorithm has an accuracy of 92.8% on the test set, an average precision of 83.3%, and a recall rate of 99%. Compared with YOLOv8s and PP-YOLO, the average precision is increased by 3.9% and 1%, and the recall rate is increased by 3% and 2%. This algorithm effectively improves the efficiency and accuracy of blood cell detection and effectively improves the problem of blood cell detection.
Green Public Transport in Poland—Planning the Process of the Electrification of the Bus Fleet of Vehicles
Authors: Chamier-Gliszczynski Norbert , Wyszomirski Adam , Balewski Cezary , Kłodawski Michał
Published: December 2024

The concept of green public transport in Poland is a challenge posed to Polish cities, which reflects the AFIR (Regulation for the Deployment of Alternative Fuels Infrastructure) regulation and the amended Polish Law on Electromobility and Alternative Fuels. The fulfillment of the established prerequisites requires taking steps toward the implementation of the electrification process of the fleet of bus vehicles. The goal of this process is to replace the fleet of buses equipped with internal combustion engines (conventional buses) with zero-emission buses. In the category of zero-emission vehicles, we distinguish between electric-powered buses (electric buses), hydrogen-powered buses (hydrogen buses) and trolleybuses. It is forecast that such exchanges will be spread out over time and may last 16 to 20 years. Thus, an important element in these activities is planning, which, as a process, leads to the establishment of tasks, resources and activities aimed at realizing or achieving the desired goal. It was assumed that the purpose of the article is to present the essence of planning the process of electrification of the bus fleet of vehicles in Polish cities. The content of the article refers to the concept of planning the process of electrification of the bus fleet of vehicles in urban areas, taking into account economic aspects, sources of financing and analysis of the feasibility of this process on the example of a selected Polish city. The planning process was presented using the example of a city integrated with the surrounding nature. The choice of the city is not accidental because the analyzed urban area lies in the green part of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, in the vicinity of which there are four nature reserves. The city is situated on two lakes, which together occupy 11.2% of the city’s area, and there are also numerous green areas in the city. The green nature of the city argued for taking action to reduce local emissions of pollutants generated by public transport. The process of planning the electrification of the bus fleet was carried out based on environmental and economic aspects. In economic terms, an important element is the possibility of obtaining external financing and the analysis of the feasibility of the planned process of electrification of the bus fleet. The conducted research clearly indicated that the presented process of planning the electrification of the bus fleet in the selected urban area allows for a precise interpretation of the considered planning in environmental and economic terms. Such an interpretation is important for the evaluation process of the analyzed planning and the implementation of the concept of green public transport in Polish cities, as well as the transparency of this process to other European cities and beyond.
Drying Kinetics of Leucaena esculenta Seeds Using a Solar Dryer
Authors: Tlatelpa Becerro Angel , Rico Martínez Ramiro , Carbajal Pérez Guillermo Raúl , Navarrete Procopio Miriam , Zezatti Flores Víctor Manuel , Castañeda Magadan Erick Omar , Portillo Contreras Samuel , Avilés López Salvador Israel , López-Vidaña Erick César
Published: December 2024

The drying kinetics and physical and chemical characteristics of Leucaena esculenta seed drying using a forced convection solar dryer are described. The drying kinetics behavior is examined for three experiments under climate conditions of three different winter days in central Mexico, observing significant effects related to the reported pH levels of the seeds with values of 6.34, 5.98, 5.97, 5.82, and 6.07. The airflow measurements inside the drying chamber were observed, including the geometric dimensions, color, appearance, weight, and moisture loss, and the effective diffusivity coefficient Deff of Leucaena esculenta with values between 1.23 × 10−7 and 8.09 × 10−9 m2s. Solar drying, with the technology used in this study, is a viable alternative to give added value to Leucaena esculenta. This study can be the basis for developing alternatives to preserve seeds for animal and human consumption.
A Comprehensive Multi-Objective Optimization Study on the Thermodynamic Performance of a Supercritical CO2 Brayton Cycle Incorporating Multi-Stage Main Compressor Intermediate Cooling
Authors: Xu Lin , Niu Xiaojuan , Hong Wenpeng , Su Wei
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a supercritical carbon dioxide Brayton cycle incorporating multi-stage main compressor intermediate cooling (MMCIC sCO2 Brayton cycle), and conducts an in-depth investigation and discussion on the enhancement of its thermodynamic performance. With the aim of achieving the maximum power cycle thermal efficiency and the maximum specific net work, this study examines the variation of the Pareto frontier with respect to the number of intermediate cooling stages and critical operational parameters. The results indicate that the MMCIC sCO2 Brayton cycle offers significant advantages in improving power cycle thermal efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and mitigating the adverse effects associated with main compressor inlet temperature increasing. Under the investigated operational conditions, the optimal cycle performance is achieved with four intermediate cooling stages, yielding a maximum power cycle thermal efficiency of 67.85% and a maximum specific net work of 0.177 MW·kg−1. Cycles with two or three intermediate cooling stages also deliver competitive cycle performance, and can be regarded as alternative options. Additionally, increasing the turbine inlet temperature proves more effective for enhancing power cycle thermal efficiency, whereas increasing the turbine inlet pressure can substantially improve the specific net work. This study provides a feasible structural layout approach and research framework to improve the thermodynamic performance of the sCO2 Brayton cycle, offering a robust theoretical foundation and technical guidance for its implementation in power engineering.
Wind Turbine Static Errors Related to Yaw, Pitch or Anemometer Apparatus: Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Related Performance Assessment
Authors: Astolfi Davide , Iuliano Silvia , Vasile Antony , Pasetti Marco , Iacono Salvatore Dello , Vaccaro Alfredo
Published: December 2024

The optimization of the efficiency of wind turbine systems is a fundamental task, from the perspective of a growing share of electricity produced from wind. Despite this, and given the complex multivariate dependence of the power of wind turbines on environmental conditions and working parameters, the literature is lacking studies specifically devoted to a careful characterization of wind farm performance. In particular, in the literature, it is overlooked that there are several types of faults which have similar manifestations and that can be defined as static errors. This kind of error manifests as a static bias occurring from a certain time onward, which can affect the anemometer, the absolute or relative pitch of the blades, or the yaw system. Static or systematic errors typically do not cause the functional failure of the wind turbine system, but they deserve attention due to the fact that they cause power production loss throughout the operation time. Based on this, the first objective of the present study is a critical review of the recent papers devoted to three types of wind turbine static errors: anemometer bias, static yaw error, and pitch misalignment. As a result, a comprehensive viewpoint, enhancing the state of the art in the literature, is developed in this study. Given that the use of data collected by Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems has, up to now, been prevailing for the diagnosis of systematic errors compared to the use of further specific sensors, particular attention in the present study is thus devoted to the discussion of the phenomena which can be observable through SCADA data analysis. Based on this, finally, a rigorous work flow is formulated for detecting static errors and discriminating among them through SCADA data analysis. Nevertheless, methods based on additional information sources (like further sensors or meteorological data) are also discussed. An important aspect of this study is that, for each considered type of systematic error, some previously unpublished results based on real-world SCADA data are reported in order to corroborate the proposed framework. Summarizing, then, the present is the first paper which considers and discusses several types of wind turbine static errors in a unified viewpoint, correctly interprets apparently controversial results collected in the literature, and finally provides guidelines for the diagnosis of this kind of error and for the quantification of the performance drop associated with their presence.
The Influence of Selected Parameters of the Mathematical Model on the Simulation Performance of a Municipal Waste-to-Energy Plant Absorber
Authors: Jurczyk Michał , Banaś Marian , Pająk Tadeusz , Dziedzic Krzysztof , Łapczyńska-Kordon Bogusława , Jewiarz Marcin
Published: December 2024

The primary research aim of this manuscript was to present a simplified absorber model and analyse the simulation results of the absorber model created to which, by design, only water was added and the outlet flue gas temperature was optimal. The obtained simulation results of the simplified absorber model were appropriately compared with the operational results of absorbers operating in professional WtE installations. This study focused on the simulation duration. The primary tool used in the paper is OpenFOAM (v2112). Two solvers were used for the calculations: ReactingParcelFoam and LTSReactingParcelFoam. They ran numerical tests on simplified absorber models. We evaluated the results according to the simulation time. We also examined the difference between the measured and calculated flue gas outlet temperatures. The results will guide further research on the absorber. They will speed up and improve the modelling of chemical processes. The only challenge was to define the chemical reactions and add a calcium molecule to the water droplet model. This work shows that we can simplify the absorber’s geometric model. It kept a low relative error and cuts the compute time. Using a local time step instead of a global one in numerical calculations significantly reduced their run time. It did this without increasing the relative error. The research can help develop complex three-phase flow models in the absorber in the future.
Global Warming and Landscape Fragmentation Drive the Adaptive Distribution of Phyllostachys edulis in China
Authors: Zhang Huayong , Liu Ping , Zhang Yihe , Wang Zhongyu , Liu Zhao
Published: December 2024

Global warming and landscape fragmentation significantly affect the spatial distribution pattern of bamboo forests. This study used high-resolution data and an optimized MaxEnt model to predict the distribution of Phyllostachys edulis in China under current and future climatic conditions in three climate scenarios (SSP126, SSP370, SSP585), and analyzed its land use landscape fragmentation using landscape indices. The results indicate that Phyllostachys edulis currently has potentially suitable habitats majorly distributed in East China, Southwest China, and Central South China. The precipitation of the driest month (BIO14) and the precipitation seasonality (BIO15) are the key environmental factors affecting the distribution of Phyllostachys edulis. In the next three scenarios, the adaptive distribution area of Phyllostachys edulis is generally expanding. With an increase in CO2 concentration, the adaptive distribution of Phyllostachys edulis in the 2050s migrates towards the southeast direction, and in the 2070s, the suitable habitat of Phyllostachys edulis migrates northward. In the suitable habitat area of Phyllostachys edulis, cropland and forests are the main land use types. With the passage of time, the proportion of forest area in the landscape pattern of the high-suitability area for Phyllostachys edulis continues to increase. Under SSP370 and SSP585 scenarios, the cropland in the Phyllostachys edulis high-suitability area gradually becomes fragmented, leading to a decrease in the distribution of cropland. In addition, it is expected that the landscape of high-suitability areas will become more fragmented and the quality of the landscape will decline in the future. This research provides a scientific basis for understanding the response of Phyllostachys edulis to climate change, and also provides theoretical guidance and data support for the management and planning of bamboo forest ecosystems, which will help in managing bamboo forest resources rationally and balancing carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation.
Enhancing Autonomous Vehicle Safety with Blockchain Technology: Securing Vehicle Communication and AI Systems
Authors: Iordache Stefan , Patilea Catalina Camelia , Paduraru Ciprian
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the rapid development of autonomous vehicles (AVs) has brought new challenges in terms of data security, privacy, and communication integrity. Our research investigates the potential of blockchain technology to improve the security of AVs by securing vehicle communication systems. By integrating blockchain with AI-based predictive algorithms, this approach aims to secure vehicle peer-to-peer communication, reduce traffic congestion, and improve safety for drivers and pedestrians. Blockchain’s decentralized ledger ensures the integrity of data exchange between vehicles and smart city infrastructure and mitigates the risks of cyberattacks such as data manipulation and identity forgery. This paper also examines recent advances in vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs) and vehicular social networks (VSNs), and it demonstrates how the immutability and cryptographic security of the blockchain can strengthen AV systems. The proposed architecture not only protects user privacy but also decentralizes access to critical data needed for AI-driven decisions, ultimately promoting a safer and more reliable environment for autonomous vehicles.
Unearthing Genetic Treasures: Exploring Lost Autochthonous Vitis vinifera Varieties in Lebanon
Authors: Saliba Carole , Vargas Alba María , Andrés María Teresa de , Lamy Françoise , Boukhdoud Liliane , Kahale Rhea , Robert Thierry , Azzi Rani , Abinader Noel , Bou Dagher Kharrat Magda
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Lebanon, one of the oldest centers of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) cultivation, is home to a rich diversity of local grape varieties. This biodiversity is linked to the country’s unique topography and millennia of cultural history. However, the wine industry primarily utilizes international varieties, putting many local varieties at risk of extinction. Methods: In this study, we analyzed 202 samples from old vineyards, home gardens, and private collections using 21 microsatellite markers to assess their identity and genetic diversity. Results: A total of 67 different genotypes were identified, with 34 not matching any existing profiles in the consulted databases, based on comparisons with the European Vitis Database, the Vitis International Variety Catalogue (VIVC), and the databases established in two previous studies conducted in Armenia and Lebanon. Cluster analyses revealed Lebanon’s rich diversity of local grape varieties, highlighting cases of synonymy, homonymy, and misnaming. All loci were polymorphic, with 228 alleles and an average of 11.4 alleles being detected. The highest number of alleles was observed at the VVIV67 locus (19 alleles), while the lowest was found at the VVIQ52 and VVIN73 loci (5 alleles). The observed heterozygosity was 0.732, slightly below the expected value of 0.757, with gene diversity varying among the markers. Conclusions: Of the 67 genetic profiles identified, 34 are absent from national and international databases, underscoring Lebanon as a hotspot for grapevine genetic diversity. This unique genetic variation, which includes several synonyms due to geographic isolation, could provide valuable opportunities for producing distinctive wines and emphasizes the need for further research and documentation.
Landslide Monitoring and Mapping
Authors: Del Soldato Matteo , Solari Lorenzo , Novellino Alessandro
Published: December 2024

Landslides are a major natural hazard, a worldwide problem with direct and indirect consequences, causing fatalities, colossal socio-economic damage [...]
Snow Avalanche Hazards and Avalanche-Prone Area Mapping in Tibet
Authors: Chu Duo , Liu Linshan , Wang Zhaofeng , Nie Yong , Zhang Yili
Published: December 2024

Snow avalanche is one of the major natural hazards in the mountain region, yet it has received less attention compared to other mountain hazards, such as landslides, floods, and droughts. After a comprehensive overview of snow avalanche hazards in Tibet area, the spatial distribution and main driving factors of snow avalanche hazards in the high mountain region in Tibet were presented in the study first. Snow avalanche-prone areas in Tibet were then mapped based on the snow cover distribution and DEM data and were validated against in situ observations. Results show that there are the highest frequencies of avalanche occurrences in the southeastern Nyainqentanglha Mountains and the southern slope of the Himalayas. In the interior of plateau, avalanche development is constrained due to less precipitation and much flatter terrain. The perennially snow avalanche-prone areas in Tibet account for 1.6% of the total area of the plateau, while it reaches 2.9% and 4.9% of the total area of Tibet in winter and spring, respectively. Snow avalanche hazards and fatalities appear to be increasing trends under global climate warming due to more human activities at higher altitudes. In addition to the continuous implementation of engineering prevention and control measures in pivotal regions in southeastern Tibet, such as in the Sichuan–Tibet highway and railway sections, enhancing monitoring, early warning, and forecasting services are crucial to prevent and mitigate avalanche hazards in the Tibetan high mountain regions, which has significant implications for other global high mountain areas.
Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) in Healthcare—A Mixed-Methods Assessment of Health SWAps in Nepal and Bangladesh
Authors: Flessa Steffen
Published: December 2024

Background: The sector-wide approach (SWAp) is an instrument of cooperation between external development partners (EDPs) and the government of a country. Its main purpose is the coordination, alignment and harmonisation of activities between EDPs and between EDPs and the respective government by covering the entire sector with one major programme. Methods: The main objective of this paper is to analyse the performance of the SWAps in two countries and draw conclusions about the appropriateness of SWAps as financing instruments in the healthcare sector under certain conditions. This paper analyses the development and achievements of the SWAp in healthcare of Bangladesh and Nepal in order to gain insights into the development and relevance of SWAps in the healthcare sectors of low- and lower-middle-income countries in general. We scrutinised the respective documents and conducted qualitative interviews with key stakeholders of the country’s sectors. The design of the questionnaires and the analysis of the interviews were built utilising a framework model reflecting the DAC criteria of development cooperation and the principles of the Declarations of Paris and Accra. Findings: The SWAps in Nepal and Bangladesh began rather early and cover about 20 years of cooperation. The components and interventions of SWAps were quite relevant for the health of the population, and their implementation was effective and efficient. The cohesion between partners strongly improved. However, for both countries, the interview partners do not perceive SWAps as the future of healthcare financing. Conclusions: SWAps were an appropriate instrument of cooperation between the respective governments and EDPs for almost two decades. However, as the share of government budgets in the sector finance has strongly increased and the management capacity of the respective ministries has gone up, there will come a point in time where EDPs can focus more on financing and implementing innovations instead of standard care.
Under-5 Malaria and Fever Morbidities as Correlates of Anaemia in Niger: A Heteroscedasticity-Consistent Ordered Probit Approach
Authors: Molelekoa Thonaeng Charity , Oyekale Abayomi Samuel
Published: December 2024

Background: The relationship between malaria/other febrile infections and anaemia among under-5 children is a subject of significant policy relevance among African health policy makers. The international significance of addressing anaemia is prominently underscored in the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). This paper therefore analysed the effect of malaria/other febrile infections and other maternal and child’s demographic variables on the prevalence of anaemia in Niger. Methods: We utilized the under-5 children’s module of the Malaria Indicator Survey (MIS) for 2021, which was collected from women of reproductive age (15–49) in selected households. The data were analysed with heteroscedasticity-consistent ordered probit regression model. Results: The results showed that 73.73% of the children was anaemic, while malaria and other febrile infections were present in 14.00% and 33.87%, respectively. Anaemia was highest in the Tillaberi and Dosso regions, where 84.12% and 79.12% of the children were anaemic. The ordered probit regression revealed that anaemia was promoted by malaria, other febrile infections, being a male child, second of multiple birth, and birth order, while wealth index, age, urban residence, and access to newspaper and television reduced it. Conclusions: Anaemia remains a major public health problem among under-5 children in Niger. A comprehensive healthcare intervention to address the problem should consider regional, sectoral, and gender differences in the incidences, with drastic efforts towards prevention of malaria and other fever-inducing illnesses. In addition, interventions to promote households’ economic status, reduce maternal fertility, and facilitate preventive practices through nutrition enhancement and health-related media programs hold some promise.
Do Medical Graduates from a Rural Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship Work in Similar Rural Communities?
Authors: Beattie Jessica , Fuller Lara , Binder Marley J. , Gray Laura , Versace Vincent L. , Rogers Gary D.
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: Medical graduates who have undertaken longitudinal rural training have consistently been found to be more likely to become rural doctors and work in primary care settings. A limitation of such findings is the heterogeneous nature of rural medical education and contested views of what constitutes ‘rurality’, especially as it is often reported as a binary concept (rural compared to metropolitan). To address the identified gaps in workforce outcomes for rural medical training and to demonstrate accountability to the communities we serve, we investigated whether Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship (LIC) graduates are practicing in communities with similar rural classification to those where they trained. Within an LIC, students learn the curriculum in an integrated, simultaneous manner. (2) Material and Methods: A retrospective cohort study analysing variables associated with working in smaller rural communities. (3) Results: LIC graduates who undertook an additional year of rural training were five times more likely to work in communities of similar rurality to the program’s training footprint. (4) Conclusions: The duration of rural training alone did not lead to optimal rural workforce outcomes. However, graduates who had trained in a combination of rural settings, an LIC, and block rotation were the most likely to practice in communities of similar rurality to the clerkship’s training footprint. This highlights the impact of both the training duration and setting inclusive of an LIC on fostering positive rural workforce outcomes and the need to develop innovative solutions to expand these models of training in smaller rural communities.
Protective Effect of Silver Nanoparticles Against Cytosine Arabinoside Genotoxicity: An In Vivo Micronucleus Assay
Authors: Castañeda-Yslas Idalia Yazmin , Torres-Bugarín Olivia , Arellano-García María Evarista , Ruiz-Ruiz Balam , García-Ramos Juan Carlos , Toledano-Magaña Yanis , Pestryakov Alexey , Bogdanchikova Nina
Published: December 2024

Cancer treatments have harmful side effects, including genotoxic ones. Our previous research discovered that a specific silver nanoparticle (AgNPs) formulation could reduce the genotoxic effects of an alkylating agent, cyclophosphamide. This study aims to evaluate if this protective effect is observed against an antimetabolite anticancer agent, cytosine arabinoside (Ara-C). An erythrocyte micronucleus assay was conducted on BALB/c mice. A most significant effect was observed after the application scheme, including three doses of Ara-C and three subsequent doses of AgNPs, resulting in a 3.7 and 2.0-fold decrease in the frequency of micronucleated reticulocytes and accumulated erythrocytes, respectively. Current and previous studies reveal that AgNPs could be used as a genoprotector against the genotoxic damage produced by the currently used antineoplastic antimetabolites and alkylating agents. It was revealed that AgNPs could be considered a new class of promising synthetic antineoplastic genoprotectants along with the known class of derivatives from natural sources.
The Gut–Heart Axis: Effects of Intestinal Microbiome Modulation on Cardiovascular Disease—Ready for Therapeutic Interventions?
Authors: Sagmeister Alexandra , Matter Christian M. , Stähli Barbara E. , Scharl Michael
Published: December 2024

Recent reports demonstrate an association between distinct bacteria or bacteria-derived metabolites originating from the gut microbiome and the onset or progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This raises the opportunity to modulate the gut microbiome to prevent or treat CVD. To investigate whether intestinal microbiome modulation can prevent or treat CVD, this systematic literature review includes all randomized clinical trials on microbiome modulation and its effects on CVD risk published between August 2018 and August 2023. Within this review, we report the modulation of the gut microbiome by a variety of interventions and their effects on CVD, focusing on cardiovascular risk factors and risk markers of CVD. Beneficial effects were observed upon lifestyle intervention and probiotics use. The most promising diets for reducing risk factors of CVD were the Mediterranean diet, high-fiber diets, polyphenol-rich diets, and diets containing polyunsaturated fatty acids. Among drug interventions, only empagliflozin showed beneficial effects on CVD risk factors. Many dietary interventions were less conclusive because of the heterogeneity of study populations, small sample sizes, and short intervention windows or follow-up. Diet, lifestyle, probiotics, or drug interventions can modulate the gut microbiome and decrease risk markers or risk factors related to CVD. Yet, their effects on clinical endpoints remain to be determined.
Exploring Protein Functions of Gut Bacteriome and Mycobiome in Thai Infants Associated with Atopic Dermatitis Through Metaproteomic and Host Interaction Analysis
Authors: Chantanaskul Thanawit , Patumcharoenpol Preecha , Roytrakul Sittirak , Kingkaw Amornthep , Vongsangnak Wanwipa
Published: December 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD), a prevalent allergic skin condition in children, has been closely associated with imbalances in the gut microbiome. To investigate these microbial alterations and their functional implications, we investigated protein expression, functions and interactions of the gut bacteriome and mycobiome as well as the human proteome in Thai infants with AD using integrative metaproteomic and host interaction analysis. As we observed, probiotic species, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bacteroides salyersiae, were reduced in abundance in the AD group while key pathogenic bacteria and fungi, such as Streptococcus constellatus and Penicillium chrysogenum, increased in abundance. Additionally, the functional analysis of expressed proteins was enriched in response to stress and DNA repair in the bacteriome and ribosome biogenesis-related processes in the mycobiome of the AD group, potentially associated to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), intestinal inflammation, fungal growth and microbial dysbiosis. Further, a protein–protein interactions (PPIs) network analysis incorporating the human proteome revealed 10 signature proteins related to stress and immune system processes associated with AD. Our findings propose the interactions of the key species and signature protein functions between the gut microbes and the human host in response to AD in Thai infants. To our knowledge, this study serves as the first framework for monitoring bacteriome–mycobiome–human gut studies associated with AD and other allergic diseases in infants.