bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Value of Bone Marrow Assessment by FDG PET/CT, Biopsy and Aspirate in the Upfront Evaluation of Mantle Cell Lymphoma: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Ródenas Quiñonero Isabel , Marco-Ayala Javier , Chen-Liang Tzu-Hua , de la Cruz-Vicente Fátima , Baumann Tycho , Navarro José-Tomás , Martín García-Sancho Alejandro , Martin-Santos Taida , López-Jiménez Javier , Andreu Rafael , Parra Ester , Usas Andrea , Alonso David , Fernández-González Marta , Palomo Rumschisky Pablo , Frutos Laura , Navarro José Luis , Alvarez-Perez Rosa María , Sarandeses Pilar , Cortes Montserrat , Tamayo Pilar , Uña Jon , Martínez-Lorca Alberto , Ruiz Cristina , Lozano María Luisa , Ortuño Francisco José
Published: December 2024

Background: Assessment of bone marrow infiltration (BMI) is part of the initial staging of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), although BMI evaluated by biopsy (BMB) is not considered significant in the MIPI scales, and standardized recommendations remain lacking. Objectives: To evaluate the accuracy and prognostic impact of BMI assessed by PET/CT and BMB in a large series of MCL patients. Methods: We deconstructed the IPI-NCCN, MIPI, and MIPI-c indices and considered BMI as positive if indicated by a BMB, PET/CT scan, or a combination of both. Results: In the total cohort (n = 148), 110 patients had BMI detected by BMB and 33 by PET/CT. The sensitivity of BMB was higher than that of PET/CT (94.8% vs. 28.4%), as were its negative predictive value (84.2% vs. 27.8%) and accuracy (95.9% vs. 43.9%). In the total cohort, BMI detected by PET/CT showed a significant predictive value for PFS (p = 0.027), while BMB demonstrated independent prognostic value only in combination with PET/CT (p = 0.025). Among intensively treated patients (n = 128), PET/CT had significant clinical impact on PFS (p = 0.030), and when combined with BMB, it provided independent prognostic value for both PFS and OS (p = 0.026 and p = 0.033, respectively). Based on these findings, we propose a prognostic model (MCL-PET-I) that incorporates BMI by PET/CT, allowing for the identification of three groups with distinct clinical outcomes (p < 0.0001 for PFS and p = 0.00025 for OS). Conclusions: In the upfront work of MCL, PET/CT-based BMI has greater prognostic impact, while BMB remains essential for staging. We propose the MCL-PET-I prognostic index, which effectively differentiates between clinical risk groups.
Circulating microRNAs as Diagnostic Biomarkers to Detect Specific Stages of Ovarian Cancer: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kartikasari Apriliana Ellya Ratna , Michel-Lara Paul , Exton Hayden , Tekin-Sari Kaan , Alnefai Ebtesam Motlaq M. , Mitchell Arnan , Sanchez-Huertas Cesar , Plebanski Magdalena
Published: December 2024

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common gynecological cancers [...]
MicroRNA, Myostatin, and Metabolic Rate Depression: Skeletal Muscle Atrophy Resistance in Hibernating Myotis lucifugus
Authors: Ingelson-Filpula W. Aline , Breedon Sarah A. , Storey Kenneth B.
Published: December 2024

Little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus) cluster in hibernacula sites over winter, in which they use metabolic rate depression (MRD) to facilitate entrance and exit of hibernation. This study used small RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analyses to identify differentially regulated microRNAs (miRNAs) and to predict their downstream effects on Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) terms in the skeletal muscle of torpid M. lucifugus as compared to euthermic controls. We observed a subset of ten miRNAs whose expression changed during hibernation, with predicted functional roles linked to cell cycle processes, downregulation of protein degradation via ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, downregulation of signaling pathways, including MAPK, p53, mTOR, and TGFβ, and downregulation of cytoskeletal and vesicle trafficking terms. Taken together, our results indicate miRNA regulation corresponding to both widely utilized MRD survival strategies, as well as more hibernation- and tissue-specific roles in M. lucifugus, including skeletal muscle atrophy resistance via myostatin inhibition and insulin signaling suppression.
Neurocognitive Profile and Associated Factors Among Children Affected by Sickle Cell Disease in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Lelo Patricia V. M. , Kitetele Faustin Nd , Kunyu Marcel , Akele Cathy E. , Okitundu Daniel L. , Sam David Lackland , Boivin Michael J. , Kashala-Abotnes Espérance
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Understanding the neurocognitive profile of children with sickle cell disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo is essential, as this condition can significantly affect their development. Our study aims to assess these children’s neurocognitive and developmental profiles and identify related factors. Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study involving 287 children, aged 0 to 68 months, using the Mullen Scales of Early Learning and the Gensini Gavito Scale. We also screened for maternal depression using the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-10. Results: More than half of the participants were boys, with an average age of 4 years. Remarkably, 95.8% (score T < x¯ +2 SD) of children scored below average on the Mullen Scales. Significant associations were found between early neurocognitive development and factors like maternal depression, socioeconomic status, maternal education, age of weaning, and responses to the Ten-Questions Questionnaire (p < 0.005). Conclusion, children with sickle cell disease show below-average cognitive development, with maternal depression being a critical factor. Longitudinal studies are vital to understanding the long-term cognitive effects of sickle cell disease, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where targeted support is urgently needed.
MXene Coatings Based on Electrophoretic Deposition for the High-Temperature Friction Reduction of Graphite for Mechanical Seal Pairs
Authors: Zeng Qunfeng , Sun Shichuan , Gao Siyang , Chen Jianhang , Zhang Fan
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the tribological properties of MXene (Ti3C2Tx) coatings on the surface of impregnated zinc phosphate graphite. MXene coatings were deposited on the surface of the impregnated zinc phosphate graphite by the electrophoretic deposition method at different voltages of 5 V, 10 V, and 15 V. The tribological properties of the MXene coatings were investigated from room temperature to 400 °C in ambient air. The results show that MXene coatings are helpful to improve the tribological properties of the impregnated zinc phosphate graphite at elevated temperatures. The coatings deposited at 5 V have the best anti-friction behaviors among the coatings at the different deposition voltages, which indicates that the MXene coatings deposited at 5 V are suitable for applications in a wide range of temperatures, especially high-temperature environments. The average CoF of the coatings deposited at 5 V is about 0.18 at 200 °C, 0.25 at 300 °C, and 0.21 at 400 °C, respectively. The CoF of the coatings deposited at 15 V is relatively stable with the increase in temperature. Moreover, the high-temperature low-friction mechanism was discussed. The high-temperature low-friction mechanism is attributed to the good self-lubricating behaviors of the impregnated zinc phosphate graphite and the transfer film of the MXene coatings.
Controlled Aggregation of Cobalt and Platinum Atoms via Plasma Treatment for Exceptional Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Activity
Authors: Zhang Guoqing , Li Jiankun , Wang Yixing , Lei Linfeng , Zhuang Linzhou
Published: December 2024

Designing and developing highly active, stable, and cost-effective hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts is crucial in the field of water electrolysis. In this study, we utilize N-doped porous carbon (CoNC) derived from zeolite imidazole metal–organic frameworks (ZIF-67) as support and prepare CoNC-Pt-IM-P via chemical impregnation (CoNC-Pt-IM) and plasma treatment. Systematic analyses reveal that calcined CoNC with pyridinic nitrogen could serve as a robust support to strongly anchor PtCo nanoclusters, while argon plasma treatment could lead to a noticeable aggregation of Co and Pt atoms so as to alter the electronic environment and enhance intrinsic HER catalytic activity. CoNC-Pt-IM-P could exhibit outstanding catalytic activity toward HER, achieving an exceptionally low overpotential of 31 mV at the current density of −10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 36 mV dec−1. At an overpotential of 50 mV, its mass activity reaches 4.90 A mgPt−1, representing enhancements of 1.5 times compared to CoNC-Pt-IM and 12.3 times compared to commercial 20 wt% Pt/C. Furthermore, it could operate stably for over 110 h at a current density of −10 mA cm−2, demonstrating its exceptional durability. This work uses plasma treatment to achieve the controllable aggregation of Co and Pt atoms to enhance their catalytic activity, which has the advantage of avoiding excessive particle aggregation compared to the commonly used method of high-temperature calcination.
Study on Explosion Welding of Titanium–Aluminum Laminated Plates with Different Explosive Charges
Authors: Xie Qinxian , Gao Yonghong , Qiao Yixuan , Zhang Qinghui
Published: December 2024

To explore the effect of different explosive charge height parameters on the bonding interface of titanium–aluminum multilayer composite plates during explosion welding, the smooth particle dynamics method (SPH method) was used to simulate the explosion welding of titanium–aluminum multilayer plates, reproducing the formation process of plasma jet and waveform bonding interface and obtaining the bonding surface conditions at various charge heights. Based on the simulation, experiments were conducted, and the bonding surface quality was verified through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The elemental distribution of the binding interface was analyzed using an energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS). The results show that the welding effect of the plate closer to the explosive is better during explosion welding. Within the weldable window, as the charge height increases, the waviness of the bonding interface transitions towards smaller and more continuous ripples, with continuous small ripples accompanied by vortex-like eddies indicating good welding conditions. When the charge height is too large, the plate may experience a brittle fracture, reducing the strength of the bonding interface. The welding effect is best when the charge height is 24 mm. Under a certain distance between the base and overlay plates, with the increase in charge height, the collision speed of the base plate also increases, increasing the pressure between the plates, causing changes in the shapes of the bonding interface ripples, and expanding the melting zone. Excessive collision speed and pressure also promote the generation of cracks, leading to a decrease in the strength of the composite material.
Design and Development of a Low-Cost Educational Platform for Investigating Human-Centric Lighting (HCL) Settings
Authors: Adam George K. , Tsangrassoulis Aris
Published: December 2024

The design of reliable and accurate indoor lighting control systems for LEDs’ (light-emitting diodes) color temperature and brightness, in an effort to affect human circadian rhythms, has been emerging in the last few years. However, this is quite challenging since parameters, such as the melanopic equivalent daylight illuminance (mEDI), have to be evaluated in real time, using illuminance values and the spectrum of incident light. In this work, to address these issues, a prototype platform has been built based on the low-cost and low-power Arduino UNO R4 Wi-Fi BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) board, which facilitates experiments with a new control approach for LEDs’ correlated color temperature (CCT). Together with the aforementioned platform, the methodology for mEDI calculation using an 11-channel multi-spectral sensor is presented. With proper calibration of the sensor, the visible spectrum can be reconstructed with a resolution of 1 nm, making the estimation of mEDI more accurate.
Effect of Pyrolysis Temperature on Microwave Heating Properties of Oxidation-Cured Polycarbosilane Powder
Authors: Hwang Chang-Hun , Beak Jong-Ha , Kim Sang-In , Kim Se-Yun
Published: December 2024

Silicon carbide (SiC) has excellent mechanical and chemical properties and is used in a wide range of applications. It has the characteristic of rapidly heating up to several hundred degrees within one minute when irradiated with microwave radiation at 2.45 GHz. In this study, we investigated the oxidation curing process and microwave heating properties of polycarbosilane (PCS). A PCS disk-shaped green body was fabricated via uniaxial pressure molding. Silicon carbide was prepared by varying the pyrolysis temperature, and the heating characteristics of the microwaves were evaluated. The results showed that the samples pyrolyzed at 1300 °C after oxidation curing for 2 h at 180 °C rapidly heated up to 802 °C within 1 min, and the temperature remained constant for 120 min. The maximum temperature of the samples pyrolyzed at 1500 °C was relatively low, but the rate of heating was the highest. The microstructures and crystal structures of the microwaves as a function of the pyrolysis temperature were investigated.
Effect of Glass Fiber Reinforcement on Marginal Microleakage in Class II Composite Restorations: An In Vitro Pilot Study
Authors: Dudás Csaba , Kardos Emánuel , Székely Melinda , Ádám Lea , Bardocz-Veres Zsuzsanna , Szőllősi Evelyn , Jánosi Kinga Mária , Kerekes-Máthé Bernadette
Published: December 2024

Background: Polymerization shrinkage of composite resins affects the marginal closure of direct dental restorations. It is responsible for developing secondary caries and indirectly affects the survival rate of restorations. This study aims to investigate the null hypothesis, which states that there are no significant differences in the marginal microleakage of Class II restorations when examined in vitro using different dental adhesives, whether the restoration material used is a composite with glass fiber reinforcement or not. Methods: Class II cavities were prepared on both proximal surfaces of thirty-six extracted human molars. A single-component (Universal VivaPen) and a two-component (Futurabond DC) self-etch adhesive system were used for the restorations in the control group (Charisma Classic) and the experimental group (Charisma Classic with Interlig glass fiber strip). An oblique layering technique and a 40-s soft-start light-curing polymerization were used. After selective pre-isolation, the specimens were placed in a 0.2% methylene blue solution and incubated at 37 °C for 24 h. The teeth were sectioned in the mesiodistal direction, and two examiners examined and graded the extent of dye penetration. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Mann–Whitney U and chi-square tests (p < 0.05). Results: All the composite restorations reinforced with glass fiber showed significantly reduced dye infiltration compared to the control group (p < 0.05). A significant difference (p < 0.05) was also observed between the two adhesives. Conclusions: The null hypothesis was rejected. Glass fiber strips significantly reduced composite restoration microleakage regardless of the adhesive. The marginal fit of the restoration was also influenced by the adhesive system used.
Routing Algorithm Within the Multiple Non-Overlapping Paths’ Approach for Quantum Key Distribution Networks
Authors: Kiktenko Evgeniy O. , Tayduganov Andrey , Fedorov Aleksey K.
Published: December 2024

We develop a novel key routing algorithm for quantum key distribution (QKD) networks that utilizes a distribution of keys between remote nodes, i.e., not directly connected by a QKD link, through multiple non-overlapping paths. This approach focuses on the security of a QKD network by minimizing potential vulnerabilities associated with individual trusted nodes. The algorithm ensures a balanced allocation of the workload across the QKD network links, while aiming for the target key generation rate between directly connected and remote nodes. We present the results of testing the algorithm on two QKD network models consisting of 6 and 10 nodes. The testing demonstrates the ability of the algorithm to distribute secure keys among the nodes of the network in an all-to-all manner, ensuring that the information-theoretic security of the keys between remote nodes is maintained even when one of the trusted nodes is compromised. These results highlight the potential of the algorithm to improve the performance of QKD networks.
Microsimulation Analysis of COVID-19 and Inflation Effects on Romanian Household Income Dynamics
Authors: Militaru Eva , Cristescu Amalia , Vasilescu Maria Denisa , Stanila Larisa
Published: December 2024

In recent years, EU member states have faced two significant crises: the COVID-19 pandemic and high inflation, exacerbated by geopolitical instability. These events have led to a decline in household purchasing power. Our study aims to quantify the impact of these crises on household income dynamics in Romania, using data from the EU Survey on Income and Living Conditions and the EUROMOD tax-benefit microsimulation model. We analyze income changes across demographic segments from 2019 to 2021 (COVID-19 period) and 2021 to 2023 (inflation crisis), focusing on household characteristics such as the presence and number of children, the gender of the household head, and the presence of elderly members. Our findings reveal that while disposable income increased from 2019 to 2021, the poorest 10% experienced the smallest gains. In 2022–2023, inflation eroded these increases, and the lower half of the income distribution struggled with reduced earnings and pensions. Despite this, the Gini coefficient for disposable income decreased from 2019 to 2023, indicating a reduced inequality. Our study highlighted that targeted public policy interventions are essential to support vulnerable households and mitigate the effects of economic shocks.
Developing Talented Children’s Computational Thinking Through Multimodal Literacies in Pop-Up Storybooks: A Case Study in Hong Kong
Authors: Li Jenny Wanyi , Leung Suzannie K. Y. , Wang Melissa Dan , Yuen Mantak
Published: December 2024

Computational thinking (CT) currently has been mainly explored using programming robots and conducted in K12 education. In early childhood education, arts have a significant place in children’s learning, expression and cognitive development. Specifically, creating pop-up storybooks is a child-friendly activity. Our study aimed to explore the combination of CT and art, and to develop talented children’s CT abilities through a multimodal literacies educational approach, which referred to using different skills (i.e., writing, drawing, making, and storytelling) in the art activity. A total of 12 talented children were selected to participate in a pop-up storybook production workshop using a convenience sampling method. We adopted an observation method to capture talented children’s CT behaviors, generating a total of 180 min of activity videos and collecting fieldnotes and the children’s worksheets and artworks for the data analysis. Based on a content analysis, we found that talented children enhanced their CT development in multiple modes and practiced seven CT skills. In conclusion, our study emphasizes the importance of art in children’s education and provides new insights for subsequent research on children’s CT education.
Teaching and Learning Science as a Tool for Human Sustenance: The Non-Science Community’s Expectations for School Science
Authors: Adu-Gyamfi Kenneth , Asaki Isaiah Atewini , Dzidzinyo Abigail Fiona , Otami Charles Deodat
Published: December 2024

The world, through the UN and its agencies, is looking for ways to sustain the environment that we live in via the SDGs. The importance of school science in achieving the SDGs cannot be overstressed. The literature abounds on the need for school science to relate to the interests and expectations of students and the importance of teachers and scientists of school science in finding solutions to sustaining our world. However, little is known about the interests and expectations of other members of our society. Consequently, we studied the expectations of members of the non-science community whose children are learning science in schools and colleges. Using a phenomenological approach, we employed interview schedules to study 15 participants, comprising 5 women and 10 men, on what they thought about science and scientists and their expectations regarding learning science in school in the 21st century, saddled with global pandemics, global warming, flooding, and other natural disasters. The thinking and expectations of the participants were analysed using a thematic analysis with constant comparison procedures to arrive at five views and expectations of school science by the non-science community. Although the participants were grateful to the science community for rising to the challenge of COVID-19, they expected school science teachers to use innovative approaches to prepare their students for future challenges, as the world lost many human lives to the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings will inform science curriculum planners about the content and pedagogies to recommend for schools and colleges.
BSP: Branch Splitting for Unsolvable Path Hybrid Fuzzing
Authors: Qian Cheng , Pang Ling , Kuang Xiaohui , Qin Jiuren , Zang Yujie , Zhao Qichao , Zhang Jiapeng
Published: December 2024

Hybrid fuzzing leverages the result of the concolic executor for a direct exploration of fuzzing, which has been proven to improve coverage during tests significantly.However, some constraints, such as those related to environments or depending on the host’s status, cannot be solved. Despite many performance optimizations on hybrid fuzzing, we observe that repeatedly constraint solving on unsolvable branches causes significant computational redundancies. This paper focuses on eliminating the unsolvable branches in concolic execution. We propose Branch Splitting for Unsolvable Path Hybrid Fuzzing (BSP), which splits unsolvable branches to achieve higher fuzzing coverage. BSP modifies the target program during concolic execution so that the fuzzer can easily cover initially unsolvable branches. Specifically, it changes the condition of unsolvable branches to constant True (or False), which generates multiple variants of the original program. Then, the fuzzer tests these variants instead. This allows BSP to explore more branches with high performance. The experimental results on real-world programs demonstrate that BSP can explore 46.68% more branches than QSYM.
Spatiotemporal Estimation of the Potential Adoption of Photovoltaic Systems on Urban Residential Roofs
Authors: Mejia Mario A. , Macedo Leonardo H. , Pinto Tiago , Franco John F.
Published: December 2024

The adoption of residential photovoltaic (PV) systems to mitigate the effects of climate change has been incentivized in recent years by government policies. Due to the impacts of these systems on the energy mix and the electrical grid, it is essential to understand how these technologies will expand in urban areas. To fulfill that need, this article presents an innovative method for modeling the diffusion of residential PV systems in urban environments that employs spatial analysis and urban characteristics to identify residences at the subarea level with the potential for installing PV systems, along with temporal analysis to project the adoption growth of these systems over time. This approach integrates urban characteristics such as population density, socioeconomic data, public environmental awareness, rooftop space availability, and population interest in new technologies. Results for the diffusion of PV systems in a Brazilian city are compared with real adoption data. The results are presented in thematic maps showing the spatiotemporal distribution of potential adopters of PV systems. This information is essential for creating efficient decarbonization plans because, while many households can afford these systems, interest in new technologies and knowledge of the benefits of clean energy are also necessary for their adoption.
A Survey of Advanced Materials and Technologies for Energy Harvesting from Roadways
Authors: Chua Yuan Shen , Kim Yongmin , Li Minghui , Aventian Gerarldo Davin , Satyanaga Alfrendo
Published: December 2024

The reduction in the supply of fossil fuel available, combined with global warming’s effects on the atmosphere, has led to the discovery of employing sustainable energy for everyday activities. Road energy harvesting is one example of sustainable energy that can be used, as the majority of people spend a substantial amount of their daily activities commuting from one location to another, and numerous types of transportation generate heat that can be converted into energy. This alternative energy source can be implemented on the road, considering that roads are critical infrastructure that has a significant effect on a country’s economy. Furthermore, road infrastructure has been contributing towards the affordability of urbanization and migration, whether locally or internationally. Currently, researchers are working towards integrating road energy harvesting around the world by incorporating various types of materials and technology connected via a sensing system. Many materials have been attempted, including ceramics, polymers, lead-free, nanomaterials, single crystals, and composites. Other possible sources to generate energy from roadways, such as solar power, thermal energy, and kinetic energy, have been investigated as well. However, many studies available only focused on the disclosure of novel materials or the review of technologies produced for road energy harvesting. There have been limited studies that focused on a comprehensive review of various materials and technologies and their implications for the performance of road energy harvesting. Hence, the main objective of this research is to undertake a thorough and in-depth review in order to identify the best materials and technologies for certain types of application in road energy harvesting. The paper discusses energy-harvesting technology, sensing systems, and the potential network based on them. Comprehensive analyses were conducted to evaluate in-depth comparisons between different materials and technologies used for road energy harvesting. The novelty of this study is related to the appropriate efficient, durable, and sustainable materials and technologies for their relevant potential application. The results of this review paper are original since it is the first of its kind, and, to the best knowledge of the authors’ knowledge, a similar study is not available in the open literature.
Adaptive Navigation Based on Multi-Agent Received Signal Quality Monitoring Algorithm
Authors: Magsi Hina , Shah Madad Ali , Abro Ghulam E. Mustafa , Memon Sufyan Ali , Memon Abdul Aziz , Hussain Arif , Kim Wan-Gu
Published: December 2024

In the era of industrial evolution, satellites are being viewed as swarm intelligence that does not rely on a single system but multiple constellations that collaborate autonomously. This has enhanced the potential of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) to contribute to improving position, navigation, and timing (PNT) services. However, multipath (MP) and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) receptions remain the prominent vulnerability for the GNSS in harsh environments. The aim of this research is to investigate the impact of MP and NLOS receptions on GNSS performance and then propose a Received Signal Quality Monitoring (RSQM) algorithm. The RSQM algorithm works in two ways. Initially, it performs a signal quality test based on a fuzzy inference system. The input parameters are carrier-to-noise ratio (CNR), Normalized Range Residuals (NRR), and Code–Carrier Divergence (CCD), and it computes the membership functions based on the Mamdani method and classifies the signal quality as LOS, NLOS, weak NLOS, and strong NLOS. Secondly, it performs an adaptive navigation strategy to exclude/mask the affected range measurements while considering the satellite geometry constraints (i.e., DOP≤2). For this purpose, comprehensive research to quantify the multi-constellation GNSS receiver with four constellation configurations (GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS, and Galileo) has been carried out in various operating environments. This RSQM-based GNSS receiver has the capability to identify signal quality and perform adaptive navigation accordingly to improve navigation performance. The results suggest that GNSS performance in terms of position error is improved from 5.4 m to 2.3 m on average in the complex urban environment. Combining the RSQM algorithm with the GNSS has great potential for the future industrial revolution (Industry 5.0), making things automatic and sustainable like autonomous vehicle operation.
Fuzzy Logic Approach for Evaluating Electromobility Alternatives in Last-Mile Delivery: Belgrade as a Case Study
Authors: Lazarević Dragan , Popović Đorđe , Çodur Muhammed Yasin , Dobrodolac Momčilo
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a methodology based on the fuzzy approach, which provides decision-making support to the organizer of last-mile delivery (LMD) in selecting sustainable delivery models for a specific territory. Solving this task is essential to ensure that the delivery process is efficient and aligned with all three dimensions of sustainable development. The goal is to select the most suitable electromobility alternative for delivery implementation based on the characteristics of the requirements and the current circumstances. The proposed methodology involves the creation of a mechanism consisting of a series of fuzzy logic systems that will model expert opinions and produce a preference value as the output, defining the suitability of applying a particular LMD model. A specific methodological contribution is the creation of harmonized membership functions for fuzzy variables as a result of comparing symmetric and asymmetric membership functions aimed at achieving the most valid results. The results guide the delivery organizer in making the best decision when choosing from the analyzed models. The applicability and adequacy of the methodology are demonstrated through the results and analysis of a case study focused on the evaluation of electromobility alternatives in last-mile delivery in a part of the city of Belgrade. The obtained preference values, which range from 0 to 1 for all tested variants, are as follows within the interval: [0.481, 0.776] for e-motorcycles, [0.376, 0.564] for e-cargo bikes, and [0.5, 0.624] for e-scooters. The specific values of these indicators aim to support decision-makers in selecting a delivery model for a defined task based on the given constraints.
The Role of Financial Markets in Energy Transitions
Authors: Zioło Magdalena , Bąk Iwona , Spoz Anna
Published: December 2024

This review organizes the current state of knowledge on the role of financial markets in energy transition. The originality of the study lies in the delimitation of its scope and diagnosis of research trends concerning the role of financing, innovation, and financial development sources. The study sets out to identify the role of the financial market in the energy transition process and present the state-of-the-art and main research focuses. For this purpose, a literature review was carried out based on the search results from the Web of Science database and using VOSViewer software, version 1.6.20. The analysis of 54 papers in the final sample allowed us to pinpoint the key links between financial markets and energy transition. Capital markets support green initiatives, with green bonds as a primary funding source. Blockchain and fintech technologies also significantly contribute to transition by offering innovative solutions. Additionally, a range of papers examine the costs associated with energy transition and the role of financial instruments in managing these. Regulatory challenges are another significant focus. This comprehensive analysis underscores the multifaceted relationship between financial markets and energy transition, providing insights into the current trends and the critical role of finance in fostering a sustainable future.
Economic Optimal Dispatch of Distribution Networks Considering the Stochastic Correlation of Wind and Solar Energy
Authors: Qian Haiya , Qi Shuntao , Xu Min , Li Feng
Published: December 2024

The traditional optimization scheduling of distribution networks has often only considered the volatility and randomness of wind and solar output. When estimating the prediction errors of wind and solar output, wind turbines and photovoltaics are typically considered separately, overlooking the correlation between them. Accurate modeling of wind and solar output prediction errors is crucial for enhancing the reliability and economy of distribution network scheduling. To address this, this paper proposes a new modeling method. First, based on the volatility and randomness of wind and solar output, it considers the characteristic that wind and solar outputs in the same region at the same time are correlated. A multivariate nonparametric kernel density estimation is introduced to fit the joint prediction error distribution of wind and solar output using historical data. Next, the impact of joint prediction errors on system scheduling costs is considered by introducing a penalty cost in the economic objective function for the errors caused by wind and solar predictions. Additionally, energy storage devices are integrated into the system to smooth power fluctuations, thereby constructing an economically optimized scheduling model for wind–solar–storage distribution networks based on stochastic correlations. Finally, testing is conducted using an improved IEEE-33 node system. The results indicate that the model considering the correlation between wind and solar output significantly improves the fitting accuracy of prediction errors compared to traditional models that only consider randomness. It also enhances the utilization rate of wind and solar energy and improves the economic performance of the distribution network.
Exploring the Effects of Renewable Energy, Energy Consumption, and Industrial Growth on Saudi Arabia’s Environmental Footprint: An Autoregressive Distributed Lag Analysis
Authors: Mohammed Mwahib Gasmelsied Ahmed , Abdel-Gadir Sufian Eltayeb Mohamed , Alsulami Faizah , Mannai Sonia , Arfaoui Lamia , Alharbi Khalid , Qassim Amal Abdulmajeed , Alsafy Mahmoud Mokhtar
Published: December 2024

This study explores the long-run relationship among the environmental footprint (EnF), renewable energy consumption, energy use, industrial growth, and urbanization in Saudi Arabia from 1990 to 2023, employing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, alongside Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS), Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS), and Canonical Cointegrating Regression (CCR) for robustness checks. Results indicate a significant long-term relationship among the variables, with renewable energy adoption emerging as a crucial factor in reducing carbon emissions. The ARDL bounds test confirms the existence of cointegration, revealing the dynamic interplay among renewable energy, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. The findings show that renewable energy consumption significantly reduces the environmental footprint (CO2 emissions), supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification and sustainable development. However, industrial expansion, while critical for economic growth, still contributes to increased emissions, underscoring the need for further investment in clean technologies. The study also highlights the role of urbanization, which, while essential for development, poses challenges for environmental sustainability. Short-term dynamics, represented by the Error Correction Model, indicate a fast adjustment speed toward equilibrium, with deviations corrected by approximately 52% each period. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers aiming to balance industrial growth with environmental protection, emphasizing the need for strategic investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. This research contributes to the understanding of energy–economy–environment interactions in oil-rich economies, providing a foundation for future studies to explore the impact of advanced technologies and policy interventions on sustainable development
Strategy and Performance of Biomethane Production Through Woody Biomass Gasification, Electrolysis and Methanation: A Case Study for Kočevje Region in Slovenia
Authors: Bahč Gregor , Prebilič Vladimir , Zupančič Matevž , Mihelič Igor , Golobič Iztok
Published: December 2024

Increasing energy demand and limited non-renewable energy resources have raised energy security concerns within the European Union. With the EU’s commitment to becoming the first climate-neutral continent, transitioning to renewable energy sources has become essential. While wind and solar energy are intermittent, consistent and reliable green energy sources, such as biogas and biomethane, offer promising alternatives. Biogas and biomethane production from biomass address key challenges, including grid stability (“supply on demand”), decentralized energy production, energy density, and efficient storage and transportation via existing natural gas infrastructure. This study examines technologies for converting woody biomass into biomethane and proposes a conceptual design utilizing the best available technologies. The system, situated in Slovenia’s Kočevje region—one of Europe’s richest forest habitats—was scaled based on the availability of low-quality woody biomass unsuitable for other applications. Combining biomass gasification, catalytic methanation, and biomethanation, supplemented by hydrogen from electrolysis, provides an effective method for converting wood to biomethane. Despite the system’s complexity and current technological limitations in energy efficiency, the findings highlight biomethane’s potential as a reliable energy carrier for domestic and industrial applications.
Microclimate Comparison Between Different Growth Forms at the Treeline Ecotone of Jiaozi Mountain, China
Authors: Wang Wenli , Yao Fenjie , Yang Ziyu , Zhang Shiyu , Lin Lin
Published: December 2024

Climatic conditions strongly control the geographic distribution of treelines; long-term in situ climatic measurements at the treeline are still rare. While microclimatic differences between trees and shrubs at treeline ecotones are already well established and explained, supporting empirical data remain limited. In this study, we compared in situ microclimate measurements in the canopy, stem, and root zones of tree and shrub plots of Juniperus squamata Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don at the treeline ecotone of Jiaozi Mountain, Yunnan, China, in 2022. Although the shrubs experienced higher wind speeds compared to the trees at the treeline ecotone, the short stature of shrubs created warm stem and soil temperatures that are more suitable for plant growth and survival. Shrub distribution at higher elevations may be due to higher soil temperatures. The inability of shrubs to grow upright may be attributed to the fact that their canopy is limited by lower temperatures above the canopy during the frost season. This can provide new insights into the mechanisms of treeline formation.
The Changes of Acoustic Vibration Properties of Spruce Wood During the Multi-Layered Alcohol Varnish Coating Process
Authors: Zhou Jing , Wang Xinrui , He Lan , Wan Ke , Guo Yaqing , Zhang Juncheng , Miao Yuanyuan , Liu Zhenbo
Published: December 2024

The multi-layered and multi-material structures of a violin’s surface varnish film make it more challenging to comprehensively understand the patterns of sound quality changes during the coating process. Using an alcohol varnish coating technique on one or both sides of the wood, along with a combination of micro-morphology, material characterization, and vibration signal processing, this study traced and analyzed the changes in the acoustic vibration properties of Norway spruce wood during the coating process. The results showed that the acoustic characteristics of the coated wood tended to change in an unfavorable direction throughout the coating process, and the specific dynamic elastic modulus (Esp) of the final single- and double-sided coating varied by −1.77% and −6.07%, respectively. The loss angle tangent (tanδ) had the opposite trend, with rates of change of 20.76% and 30.42%. The sizing and priming treatments in the pretreatment stage had some positive effects on the acoustic properties of the wood specimens. Additionally, significant changes in acoustic vibration performance parameters began to be highlighted at the color paint stage (p < 0.05). These insights provide reference data for the improvement of violin acoustic performance and the simplification of the coating process.
Vegetation Restoration Effectiveness in Mianshan Abandoned Mine, Dongzhi County, China: Considering Habitat Diversity and Critical Drivers
Authors: Gao Chenglong , Min Aoyun , Zhang Wen , Long Yiyi , Zhang Dandan , Wu Hongmiao , Wu Boren , Zhang Zhen , Xiong Peifeng
Published: December 2024

Vegetation restoration in abandoned mines is crucial for ecosystem recovery and sustainable development. However, the assessment of restoration effectiveness and long-term sustainability through appropriate methods remains a significant challenge. This study aims to evaluate the vegetation restoration effectiveness of the Mianshan abandoned mine in Dongzhi County, China, three years after the completion of the restoration project, using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE) methods. Drone oblique photography and field survey transects were applied to determine vegetation growth and geological conditions across different habitats, including the base, terrace, and slope behind the terrace. An evaluation indicator system was developed to assess restoration effectiveness. Results indicated that the overall vegetation restoration was moderately effective, with vegetation coverage and recovery rate (restored-to-native vegetation coverage ratio) of 62.0% and 66.7%, respectively. The terrace habitat exhibited the highest, while the base and slope showed fair restoration effectiveness. Vegetation coverage was the highest on the terrace, but species diversity was the lowest. The base had lower coverage but greater species diversity, with more planted species and invasive species. The slope exhibited low coverage and species diversity, with poor growth of planted species. The terrace had more conservative species than the base and slope. Key factors influencing vegetation restoration effectiveness across habitats included topography (e.g., slope gradient), soil texture (clay or gravelly soil), soil moisture, species selection, and planting strategies. This study evaluated vegetation restoration effectiveness in the Mianshan mine using AHP and FCE methods, highlighting the influence of topography, soil conditions, and species selection on restoration outcomes across diverse habitats.
Differences in Public Perceptions of Recovery in Different Urban Forests Based on Birdsong
Authors: Yi Kaiyuan , Zhang Jinyu , Zhang Zhe , Shi Xiaoyan , Du Wenhao , Yang Linghua , Wei Meng
Published: December 2024

Urban forests are important public recreation sites and play an important function in urban biodiversity conservation. Recent studies have found that urban forests have a beneficial effect on public physiological and psychological health. Birdsong in urban forests has good physiological and psychological recovery benefits and is also the most frequent natural sound. In this paper, a blank group, visual perception, and audiovisual perception were studied by investigating birds in five kinds of urban forests and simulating their birdsong environment. The results showed the following: (1) The visual perception and audiovisual perception of urban forests are restorative to the public’s physiology and psychology. Forests and urban parks with higher natural elements have relatively strong physiological and psychological recovery benefits, and roadside green spaces with higher artificial elements have relatively weak recovery benefits. However, both natural and artificial urban forests can show better recovery. (2) Birdsong perception preference has a mediating effect on the recovery benefit of heart rate and a moderating effect on the recovery benefit of skin conductance, which can affect the recovery benefits of urban forests on public physiology and psychology. (3) Because people’s perceptions of the timbre of birdsong vary, the benefits of birdsong on recovery are not always favorable. The richness and pleasantness of birdsong in the forest environment are significant contributors to the recovery advantages and the likability and comfort of birdsong in the rest of the setting. Based on differences in the composition of birds in different urban forest environments, this study simulated the birdsong environment with birds based on field research and studied the public perception recovery of the urban forest visual environment and the urban forest and birdsong audiovisual environment in order to explore the influence of birdsong on the public health recovery properties of urban forests. This study provides an optimal strategy for the selection and construction of forest healing functions and promotes the development of urban ecosystems and biodiversity.
A Comprehensive Analysis of the Laccase Gene Family of Pinus densiflora Reveals a Functional Role of PdeLAC28 in Lignin Biosynthesis for Compression Wood Formation
Authors: Nguyen Tram Thi Thu , Kim Min-Ha , Pyo Seung-Won , Jang Hyun-A , Kim Hak-Jun , Kim Dong-Gwan , Ko Jae-Heung
Published: December 2024

In conifers, compression wood (CW) with a high lignin content forms at the base of the stem or branch in response to gravity, which is a good model system for studying lignin-rich wood formation. In this study, we identified and characterized the laccase gene family (PdeLAC) in Korean red pine (Pinus densiflora), which is integral to monolignol polymerization. Phylogenetic analysis of 54 PdeLAC genes with those from gymnosperms (i.e., Pinus taeda and Picea abies) and angiosperms (i.e., Populus trichocarpa, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Oryza sativa) revealed their categorization into five groups, highlighting distinct evolutionary relationships compared to angiosperms. Gene structure and motif analysis showed conserved copper-binding loops and variable substrate-binding loops, suggesting functional diversity. Expression profiling indicated that 23 PdeLAC genes, including three (PdeLAC28, PdeLAC1, and PdeLAC31) homologous to AtLAC17, were upregulated in developing xylem during the growing season, particularly in CW. Transgenic poplars overexpressing PdeLAC28 exhibited increased xylem area, cell wall thickness, and Klason lignin content, underscoring its role in lignin biosynthesis and CW formation. This study provides valuable insights into the molecular regulation of lignin biosynthesis in CW of P. densiflora, setting a foundation for advancing our understanding of wood formation mechanisms in gymnosperms.