bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probability-Based Diagnostic Imaging of Fatigue Damage in Carbon Fiber Composites Using Sparse Representation of Lamb Waves
Authors: Duan Qiming , Ye Bo , Zou Yangkun , Hua Rong , Feng Jiqi , Shi Xiaoxiao
Published: February 2023

Carbon fiber composites are commonly used in aerospace and other fields due to their excellent properties, and fatigue damage will occur in the process of service. Damage imaging can be performed using damage probability imaging methods to obtain the fatigue damage condition of carbon fiber composites. At present, the damage factor commonly used in the damage probability imaging algorithm has low contrast and poor anti-noise performance, which leads to artifacts in the imaging and misjudgment of the damaged area. Therefore, this paper proposes a fatigue damage probability imaging method for carbon fiber composite materials based on the sparse representation of Lamb wave signals. Based on constructing the Lamb wave dictionary, a fast block sparse Bayesian learning algorithm is used to represent the Lamb wave signals sparsely, and the definition of Lamb wave sparse representing the damage factor calculates the damage probability of the monitoring area and then images the fatigue damage of the carbon fiber composite materials. The imaging research was carried out using the fatigue monitoring experiment data of NASA’s carbon fiber composite materials. The results show that the proposed damage factor can clearly distinguish the damaged area from the undamaged area and has strong noise immunity. Compared with the energy damage factor and the cross-correlation damage factor, the error percentages are reduced by at least 58.63%, 28.11%, and 8.43% for signal-to-noise ratios of 6 dB, 3 dB, and 0.1 dB, respectively, after adding noise to the signal. The results can more accurately reflect the real location and area of fatigue damage in carbon fiber composites.
The Innovative Application of Visual Communication Design in Modern Art Design
Authors: Gu Yan , Wang Qi , Gu Wanli
Published: February 2023

In the context of the rapid development of economy and culture, people’s requirements for material and culture are constantly increasing, and the relationship between graphic design and human life is also increasingly close. With the continuous development of Internet of Things technology, information exchange between people and things can be realized by using various sensing devices, and innovative modern art can be established. Therefore, the focus of culture has gradually shifted to the field of visualization. However, in the visual communication design, the product design method of “mainly two-dimensional plan and supplemented by three-dimensional model”, on the one hand, cannot maximize the intuitive effect of three-dimensional modeling, thus affecting the efficiency of design; on the other hand, problems such as information incoordination and resource waste are likely to occur. In short, people’s requirements for design have changed from a two-dimensional plane space to a three-dimensional space, and a two-dimensional plane design can no longer meet people’s growing demand for artistic design. Aiming at tackling these problems, this paper proposed to establish a visual communication system based on artificial intelligence (AI). Through this method, the image can be made clearer and has a larger field of view and magnification. At the same time, the system was applied to modern art design, which is a type of innovation. The experimental results showed that the maximum distortion of the system designed in this paper was approximately 15%, and the maximum distortion of the traditional sample was about 20%. Compared with conventional samples, this system has great advantages in graphics transformation. In addition, the chromatic aberration of the optical system can be corrected to improve the imaging effect.
Energy Conveyor Belt—A Detailed Analysis of a New Type of Hydrokinetic Device
Authors: Solomon Mithran Daniel , Heineken Wolfram , Scheffler Marcel , Birth Torsten
Published: February 2023

Renewable energy technologies can help us combat climate change and hydrokinetic energy conversion systems could play a major role. The simplicity of hydrokinetic devices helps us to exploit renewable sources, especially in remote locations, which is not possible with conventional methods. A new type of hydrokinetic device called the Energy Conveyor Belt was designed, which works on the concept of conveyor belt technology. Numerical simulations are performed on the design of the Energy Conveyor Belt with Ansys FLUENT to optimize its performance. Some of the optimized models produced a maximum power slightly above 1 kW. The numerical results are then compared to the experimental results of other hydrokinetic turbines. The compactness and flexibility of the design give the Energy Conveyor Belt an advantage over other hydrokinetic devices in regions with fluctuating water levels. Further research has to be undertaken into cascading systems to increase the overall power generated by the system.
Policy Analysis of the Challenges to an Effective Switch to Low-Carbon Energy in the Economic Community of West African States
Authors: Mewenemesse Herve Tevenim , Yan Qiang
Published: February 2023

In Africa, switching to renewable energy sources with low carbon emissions is becoming more popular. In the Economic Community of West African states (ECOWAS), the low-carbon energy transition must overcome significant obstacles, including those posed by policies put in place and their implementation. In order to replace the current fossil fuel-driven economy with low-carbon development that also advances the regional aims and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this paper analyzes the current policy landscape in the region. A total of 75 policies from four categories (energy access, energy efficiency, renewable energy, climate change) were chosen for the policy review. Multicriteria decision analysis and a thorough review of the literature have shed light on how well the policies of the ECOWAS countries could promote low-carbon development and what the main challenges to overcome are. The last step was the comparison of the progress of the two key policies in the region: the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) and National Renewable Energy Action Plan (NREAP). The results illustrate the amount of work still needing to be done in the region, with only 26 of the 75 policies receiving a score above 50. However, the prospect of a better energy strategy that adequately considers the difficulties of the energy transition is possible, given the progress made by the region’s nations since the creation of national action plans for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). Our analysis has also shown that countries like Senegal have obtained quite promising results, as evidenced by the best scores of 76.88 and 73.25, respectively, obtained by its NREAP and NEEAP policies.
Hybrid Vibration Reduction System for a Vehicle Suspension under Deterministic and Random Excitations
Authors: Orkisz Paweł , Sapiński Bogdan
Published: February 2023

This paper concerns a hybrid vibration reduction system (HVRS) equipped with a linear electrodynamic motor (LM). The objective of the study was to implement the HVRS in a scaled vehicle suspension and reveal the benefits of its application in the system. First, a mathematical model of a quarter-vehicle suspension with the HVRS was formulated. Next, the dynamic similarity method was employed to conduct numerical simulations of the passive vibration reduction system (PVRS). Subsequently, an algorithm for HVRS controlling was developed. Then, the system was investigated experimentally under deterministic and random excitations. The results confirmed the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed HVRS.
Electromagnetic Design and Analysis in Electrical Power Conversion and Usage
Authors: Duffy Alistair , Zhang Gang
Published: February 2023

Electromagnetics is the hidden ‘glue’ that holds together almost all electrical and electronic engineering applications [...]
A Comprehensive Review of Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Techniques Used in Solar PV Systems
Authors: Katche Musong L. , Makokha Augustine B. , Zachary Siagi O. , Adaramola Muyiwa S.
Published: February 2023

Renewable Energy technologies are becoming suitable options for fast and reliable universal electricity access for all. Solar photovoltaic, being one of the RE technologies, produces variable output power (due to variations in solar radiation, cell, and ambient temperatures), and the modules used have low conversion efficiency. Therefore, maximum power point trackers are needed to harvest more power from the sun and to improve the efficiency of photovoltaic systems. This paper reviews the methods used for maximum power point tracking in photovoltaic systems. These methods have been classified into conventional, intelligent, optimization, and hybrid techniques. A comparison has also been made of the different methods based on criteria such as tracking speed, efficiency, cost, stability, and complexity of implementation. From the literature, it is clear that hybrid techniques are highly efficient compared to conventional methods but are more complex in design and more expensive than the conventional methods. This review makes available useful information that can be exploited when choosing or designing MPPT controllers.
Reconstruction of Lake-Level Changes by Sedimentary Noise Modeling (Dongying Depression, Late Eocene, East China)
Authors: Sun Zhongheng , Jiang Tao , Zhu Hongtao , Feng Xinluo , Wei Pengli
Published: February 2023

The late Eocene succession of the Dongying Depression forms a highly productive hydrocarbon source. However, due to lack of an unambiguous fine chronostratigraphic framework for the late Eocene stratigraphy, it is challenging to understand the paleolake’s evolution and the driven mechanism of lake-level variation, a limitation which hinders hydrocarbon exploration. In this work, high-resolution gamma-ray logging data were analyzed to carry out the cyclostratigraphic analysis of the third member (Es3) of the Shahejie Formation in the Dongying Depression. Significant 405-kyr eccentricity cycles were recognized based on time series analysis and statistical modeling of estimated sedimentation rates. We abstracted ~57 m cycles of the GR data in the Es3 member, which were comparable with the long eccentricity cycles (~405-kyr) of the La2004 astronomical solution, yielding a 6.43 Myr long astronomical time scale (ATS) for the whole Es3 member. The calibrated astronomical age of the third/fourth member of the Shahejie Formation boundary (41.21 Ma) was adopted as an anchor point for tuning our astrochronology, which provided an absolute ATS ranging from 34.78 ± 0.42 Ma to 41.21 ± 0.42 Ma in Es3. According to the ATS, sedimentary noise modeling for the reconstruction of lake-level changes was performed through the late Eocene Es3. The lake-level changes obtained based on sedimentary noise modeling and spectrum analysis reveal significant ~1.2 Myr cycles consistent with global sea level variations which were related to astronomical forcing. Potential driven mechanisms of marine incursion and/or groundwater table modulation were linked to explain the co-variation of global sea level changes and regional lake level changes. Our results suggest global sea level fluctuations may have played an important role in driving the hydroclimate and paleolake evolution of the late Eocene Dongying Depression.
Current Status and Development Direction of Low-Carbon Exploitation Technology for Heavy Oil
Authors: Li Haifeng , Wang Qiang , Wu Yongbin
Published: February 2023

With the strategic goal of “carbon peaking and carbon neutral” in China, new requirements are also put forward for the thermal recovery of heavy oil. In view of the problems of excessive greenhouse gas emission, low steam utilization rate, poor economic efficiency, and limited reservoir application of steam stimulation replacement technology in China, the emerging technologies of medium- and low-temperature thermal fluid, solvent-assisted high-temperature steam injection, solvent-based medium- and low-temperature waterless recovery and in situ electric heating-assisted recovery are discussed in terms of technical principles, technical parameters, experimental/field effects, and technical and economic potential. The technical principles, technical parameters, experimental/field results, and techno-economic potential of low-carbon heavy oil recovery technologies are summarized and future development directions and trends are anticipated. The study’s findings indicate that some of the technologies that have been tested in the field, such as HWVP, EMVAPEX, AH-VAPEX, LASER, and ESEIEH, can be developed by relying on the original well groups for production and can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as CO2, by about 80% and improve crude oil recovery by 5% to 10%, while the technologies concerned have outstanding effects on increasing oil production rate and lowering upfront capital investment. Some of the technologies that have been tested significantly increase oil production rate, lower initial capital expenditure, and enable solvent recycling, among other things. Among them, COBEEOR and N-SOLV technologies can also lower the amount of asphaltene in the output crude oil, enhance the API of the recovered crude oil, and provide strong economic advantages. CSP, CHSI, and hot water solvent injection were tested in indoor two-dimensional and three-dimensional experiments to validate their feasibility, while CO2, propane, and butane solvents were initially screened and some of the technologies’ mechanisms were revealed to lay the groundwork for pilot projects. The executive summary of the research findings will serve as a guide for future low-carbon extraction technology research and development in China.
A Comparative Investigation on Solar PVT- and PVT-PCM-Based Collector Constancy Performance
Authors: Hossain MD Shouquat , Kumar Laveet , Arshad Adeel , Selvaraj Jeyraj , Pandey A. K. , Rahim Nasrudin Abd
Published: February 2023

Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has a lower adoption rate than expected because of different weather conditions (sunny, cloudy, windy, rainy, and stormy) and high material manufacturing costs. To overcome the barriers to adoption, many researchers are developing methods to increase its performance. A photovoltaic–thermal absorber hybrid system may shift its performance, but to become more efficient, the technology could improve with some strong thermal absorber materials. A phase change material (PCM) could be a suitable possibility to enhance the (electrical and thermal) PV performance. In this study, a solar PVT hybrid system is developed with a PCM and analyzed for comparative performance based on Malaysian weather conditions. The result shows PV performance (both electrical and thermal) was increased by utilizing PCMs. Electrical and thermal efficiency measurements for different collector configurations are compared, and PV performance and temperature readings are presented and discussed. The maximum electrical and thermal efficiency found for PVT and PVT-PCM are 14.57% and 15.32%, and 75.29% and 86.19%, respectively. However, the present work may provide extensive experimental methods for developing a PVT-PCM hybrid system to enhance electrical and thermal performance and use in different applications.
A Review of Biomass-Derived UV-Shielding Materials for Bio-Composites
Authors: Kim Tae Hoon , Park Seung Hyeon , Lee Seoku , Bharadwaj A.V.S.L. Sai , Lee Yang Soo , Yoo Chang Geun , Kim Tae Hyun
Published: February 2023

The adverse effects of UV (ultraviolet) radiation on polymeric materials and organic constituents can damage the molecular structure of human skin and polymeric materials, resulting in their degradation. Therefore, additives or reagents for UV-shielding must be used in related applications, including polymer compounds and skin cosmetics. Bio-based polymers have shown great potential as alternatives to conventional metallic and organic materials (e.g., TiO2 and ZnO) in various applications; therefore, natural products have gained attention as a potential resource to overcome UV-induced health and environmental problems. In particular, biomass-derived materials such as lignin, fiber, and silica have been investigated as UV-shielding materials owing to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low carbon emissions. In this review, the UV-shielding effect and potential of various biomass-derived materials, such as silica, nanocellulose, and fibers, are reviewed. Among them, lignin is considered a promising UV-shielding material because of the presence of chromophores and functional groups capable of absorbing UV radiation of all ranges.
A Novel Data-Driven Tool Based on Non-Linear Optimization for Offshore Wind Farm Siting
Authors: Polykarpou Marina , Karathanasi Flora , Soukissian Takvor , Loukaidi Vasiliki , Kyriakides Ioannis
Published: February 2023

One preliminary key step for developing an offshore wind farm is identifying favorable sites. The process of sitting involves multiple requirements and constraints, and therefore, its feasible implementation requires either approximating assumptions or an optimization method that is capable of handling non-linear relationships and heterogeneous factors. A new optimization method is proposed to address this problem that efficiently and accurately combines essential technical criteria, such as wind speed, water depth, and distance from shore, to identify favorable areas for offshore wind farm development through a user-friendly data-driven tool. Appropriate ranks and weighting factors are carefully selected to obtain realistic results. The proposed methodology is applied in the central Aegean Sea, which has a high offshore wind energy potential. The application of the proposed optimization method reveals large areas suitable for developing floating wind energy structures. The algorithm matches the accuracy of the exhaustive search method. It, therefore, produces the optimum outcome, however, at a lower computational expense demonstrating the proposed method’s potential for larger spatial-scale analysis and use as a decision support tool.
Productivity and Characterization of Biomass Obtained from Pruning of Walnut Orchards in México
Authors: Sierra-Zurita Donaji , Santana-Espinoza Saúl , Rosales-Serna Rigoberto , Ríos-Saucedo Julio César , Carrillo-Parra Artemio
Published: February 2023

Walnut tree (Carya illinoensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch) is a plant species showing ecological, social, and economic importance in México. The objective was to determine biomass productivity and to characterize the raw material and biomass briquettes obtained from walnut thinning pruning. The variables evaluated were tree total height (TH), fresh biomass (FB) and dry biomass (DB) per hectare (kg ha−1). Briquettes were made by using the biomass obtained in both orchards. Laboratory tests for original biomass included moisture content (MC), ash content (AC), volatile matter (VM) and fixed carbon (FC), as well as high heating value (HHV). Briquette studies also included diameter (D), weight (W), length (L), volume (V), density (Ds), and HHV. The data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA) under a completely randomized design with factorial arrangement. Thinning pruning in walnut orchards provides 12 kg tree−1 (998 kg ha−1) of dry biomass, with acceptable levels of AC ≤ 5%, FC (75 to 76%), VM (18.7 to 19.7%) and HHV (16.2 to 16.7 MJ kg−1). The briquette international quality standards were fulfilled: MC≤ 10%, AC ≤ 5% and HHV > 18 MJ kg−1. The integrated use of walnut residues reduces the management problems registered during nut production and the sustainable options to generate bioenergy will be expanded.
Design of a Test Section for the Experimental Investigation of the WCLL Manifold Hydraulic Features
Authors: Collaku Aldo , Arena Pietro , Del Nevo Alessandro , Marinari Ranieri , Savoldi Laura
Published: February 2023

A scaled-down test section representative of an Outboard Segment manifold of the Water-Cooled Lithium Lead Breeding Blanket for the European DEMO has been designed for installation and test in a high- mass flow branch of the W-HYDRA facility, under construction at the premises of ENEA Brasimone Research Center. The test section should confirm the flow repartition recently computed in the different breeding units on the full-scale manifold, validating at the same time the computational tools used for the design and analysis. The detailed objectives and requirements of the test section, as well as the scaling rationale and procedure adopted for its design, are presented in the paper. The final design of the test section is discussed. The preliminary analyses of the developed design are also presented and show that it is compliant with the initial objectives.
Effect of Macroscopic Turbulent Gust on the Aerodynamic Performance of Vertical Axis Wind Turbine
Authors: Srinivasan Lakshmi , Ram Nishanth , Rengarajan Sudharshan Bharatwaj , Divakaran Unnikrishnan , Mohammad Akram , Velamati Ratna Kishore
Published: February 2023

Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) have proven to be suitable for changing wind conditions, particularly in urban settings. In this paper, a 2D URANS (Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier Stokes) numerical analysis is employed for an H-Darrieus VAWT. A turbulent domain is created through systemically randomising the inlet velocity to create macro-turbulence in front of the VAWT. The parameters for spatial and temporal randomisation of velocity and its effects on the turbine performance are studied for a mean free stream velocity, U∞ = 10 m/s, and a tip speed ratio (TSR) of 4.1. The mean Coefficient of power (Cp) for randomised fluctuation of 2 m/s and half-cycle randomisation update frequency is 0.411 and for uniform inlet velocity is 0.400. The Cp vs. Tip Speed ratio plot suggests that the optimal tip speed ratio for operation is around 4.1 for this particular wind turbine of diameter 1 m, chord 0.06 m, and NACA 0018 airfoils. The effect of randomisation for tip speed ratio λ = 2.5, 3.3, 4.1, and 5.3 on the performance of the turbine is studied. Turbine wake recovers at a faster rate for macro-turbulent conditions and is symmetric when compared to wake generated by uniform velocity inlet. The maximum velocity deficit for a distance behind the turbine, x/d = 8 at TSR (λ) = 4.1 is 46% for randomised inlet and 64% for uniform inlet. The effect of randomisation for λ = 2.5 to 5.3 on the performance of the turbine is analysed. A time-varying gust based on International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Extreme Operating Gust is used to study the effect of fluctuating wind conditions in a turbulent environment. Since real-time conditions often exceed gust factors mentioned by IEC, winds with large gust factors such as 1.50, 1.64, and 1.80 are analysed. With an increase in gust amplitude, Ugust = 6 m/s to Ugust = 12 m/s on a free stream velocity of U∞ = 10 m/s, the mean Cp decreases from 0.41 to 0.35 since the wind turbine operates under tip speed ratios outside optimal range due to large fluctuations in incoming velocity.
Models for the Multicriteria Selection of Options for Decommissioning Projects for Offshore Oil and Gas Structures
Authors: Khalidov Ibragim , Milovidov Konstantin , Stepin Yury
Published: February 2023

Companies are striving to optimize the decommissioning process of oil and gas facilities in order to reduce overall costs. Various options and criteria for making decisions on the liquidation of objects are considered, which are based on a multicriteria approach that allows optimizing this complex process. The most important characteristics of a reliable model for optimizing options for decommissioning oil and gas facilities are defined as follows: the option should take into account qualitative and quantitative criteria. To minimize the subjectivity of human judgment, a systematic poll of skilled performers should be conducted using a well-structured technique. It is shown that multicriteria decision analysis can be considered as an adequate model for choosing options for decommissioning oil and gas assets. Based on a test case that reflects the practice of decommissioning offshore platforms in the state of California (USA), the logic and algorithm of calculations are reproduced when choosing the best options for decommissioning facilities. The presented calculation scheme is quite universal and can be used at other facilities, including Russian ones. In order to determine the optimal choice, three options for the project model for the decommissioning of oil and gas facilities of offshore structures (platforms) were considered: complete liquidation, partial liquidation, and leaving in place.
The Effect of Salty Environments on the Degradation Behavior and Mechanical Properties of Nafion Membranes
Authors: Madhav Dharmjeet , Shao Changyuan , Mus Jorben , Buysschaert Frank , Vandeginste Veerle
Published: February 2023

The application of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) in maritime transportation is currently in the spotlight due to stringent emissions regulations and the establishment of a carbon trading system. However, salt in the marine environment can accelerate the degradation of proton-exchange membranes (PEM), which are the core component of PEMFCs. In this study, the effect of the NaCl concentration and temperature on the degradation of Nafion, the benchmark PEMFC membrane, was analyzed ex situ by accelerated degradation using Fenton’s test. The membrane properties were studied by mass change, fluoride ion emission, FTIR spectroscopy, and tensile test. The results showed that the degradation of Nafion membranes increased with the increase in temperature and NaCl concentration. Further studies revealed that Nafion produces C=O bonds during the degradation process. Additionally, it was found that sodium ions replace hydrogen ions in degraded Nafion fragments based on analysis of the weight change, and the rate of substitution increases with increasing temperature. A better understanding of the degradation behavior of Nafion in salty environments will lead to the advanced manufacturing of PEM for applications of PEMFCs in maritime transportation.
Scale Effect on Hydraulic Properties of Pore-Fissure Deep Rock Formations and Its Importance for the Mining Shaft-Sinking Process
Authors: Pikuła Maciej , Chudy Krzysztof , Worsa-Kozak Magdalena , Czop Mariusz
Published: February 2023

The problem of hydraulic parameters estimation lies in the depth: the deeper the rock formation, the more expensive and difficult the field tests and samples acquisition, and the more challenging the technical issues. The article assesses the Triassic sandstone’s drainage potential at the stage of shaft sinking. It focuses on parameter analysis in varied scales, from drill-core sample laboratory testing, through a single well drawing test, to long-term pumping and recovery tests in the well with observation piezometers. The obtained results are compared to the values estimated in the past using different methods. Finally, the paper states whether it is reliable to forecast pore-fissure sandstone drainage potential based only on core samples’ laboratory tests. This research proved that lab tests underestimate pore-fissure rocks’ hydraulic parameters (mean hydraulic conductivity k = 9.79 × 10−8 m/s) tenfold more than long-term pumping tests (mean k = 4.45 × 10−7 m/s). However, it can be concluded that the group of so-called “witness samples”, 10% of all core samples with a top value of the hydraulic conductivity tested in the laboratory, can be representative of the aquifer and comparable to the values obtained in pumping tests. With this in mind, we recommend using the highest values of hydrogeological parameters from laboratory tests based on the worst-case scenario. Therefore, it is possible to forecast inflows to the shafts reliably. This methodology is recommended only for rocks of porous and pore-fissure character.
Electrochemical Conversion of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Yan Wen , Ma Ming
Published: February 2023

The excess carbon dioxide emissions generated by the use of fossil fuels cause serious environmental problems and hinder the sustainable development of our society [...]
Leaf Functional Traits of Zanthoxylum planispinum ‘Dintanensis’ Plantations with Different Planting Combinations and Their Responses to Soil
Authors: Li Yitong , Yu Yanghua , Song Yanping
Published: February 2023

Leaf structural and physiological traits, nutrients, and other functional properties reflect the ability of plants to self-regulate and adapt to the environment. Species diversity can positively affect plant growth by improving the habitat, and offers mutual interspecies benefits. Therefore, optimizing the types of plants grown in a specific area is conducive to achieving sustainable development goals for plant growth. In this study, companion planting of Zanthoxylum planispinum ‘dintanensis’ (hereafter Z. planispinum) with Prunus salicina Lindl., Sophora tonkinensis Gagnep., Arachis hypogaea L. and Lonicera japonica Thunb. was investigated, along with a monoculture Z. planispinum plantation. The effect of different planting combinations on the adaptive mechanisms of Z. planispinum and its response to the soil was explored. These results revealed that Z. planispinum preferred the slow growth strategy of small specific leaf area, high leaf water content, and high chlorophyll content after combination with P. salicina. Conversely, after combination with S. tonkinensis, Z. planispinum exhibited a fast growth strategy. Combination with A. hypogaea enabled Z. planispinum to adopt a transition from slow to fast growth. Z. planispinum regulated its economy of growth through multiple functional trait combinations, indicating that planting combinations impacted its adaptive strategies. The adaptability of Z. planispinum in combination with P. salicina, L. japonica, A. hypogaea and S. tonkinensis decreased in turn, with only the adaptability of Z. planispinum + S. tonkinensis lower than that of the pure forest. Leaf functional traits were jointly influenced by soil water content, microbial biomass carbon (MBC), MB nitrogen (N), MB phosphorus (P), available N, total P and available calcium (C:N:P). The main contributors were soil water content, the different component levels and stoichiometry of elements and the MB. The results demonstrated that companion planting can promote or inhibit the growth of Z. planispinum by adjusting its functional traits.
Modeling Climate Change Effects on the Distribution of Oak Forests with Machine Learning
Authors: Mirhashemi Hengameh , Heydari Mehdi , Karami Omid , Ahmadi Kourosh , Mosavi Amir
Published: February 2023

The present study models the effect of climate change on the distribution of Persian oak (Quercus brantii Lindl.) in the Zagros forests, located in the west of Iran. The modeling is conducted under the current and future climatic conditions by fitting the machine learning method of the Bayesian additive regression tree (BART). For the anticipation of the potential habitats for the Persian oak, two general circulation models (GCMs) of CCSM4 and HADGEM2-ES under the representative concentration pathways (RCPs) of 2.6 and 8.5 for 2050 and 2070 are used. The mean temperature (MT) of the wettest quarter (bio8), solar radiation, slope and precipitation of the wettest month (bio13) are respectively reported as the most important variables in the modeling. The results indicate that the suitable habitat of Persian oak will significantly decrease in the future under both climate change scenarios as much as 75.06% by 2070. The proposed study brings insight into the current condition and further projects the future conditions of the local forests for proper management and protection of endangered ecosystems.
Non-Thermal Plasma Treatment Improves Properties of Dormant Seeds of Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.)
Authors: Šerá Božena , Jirešová Jana , Scholtz Vladimír , Julák Jaroslav , Khun Josef
Published: February 2023

This article deals with the breaking down of seed dormancy in black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) seeds. These seeds have a hard testa that is impermeable to water and air. In this investigation, seeds of black locust were treated with non-thermal plasma (NTP) for 0, 5, 10, and 20 min. The testa of the treated seeds had an eroded surface (SEM analysis) and showed an increased oxygen content (EDS) and increased hydrophilicity (contact-angle measurement). The exposed seeds also had a higher water absorption (seed water uptake) than the untreated ones. In seeds treated for 20 min, a significant difference (p < 0.05) was recorded in seed germination (eight times greater than the control set) and in other parameters of initial seedling development, such as the fresh weight of both seedling root and shoot and all three indexes of seedling vitality. The detected changes in the seed surface and changes in germination proved that NTP can partly break dormancy in black-locust seeds.
Allometric Growth of Common Urban Tree Species in Qingdao City of Eastern China
Authors: Yang Jinming , Zhang Mengfan , Zhang Jian , Lu Huicui , Hauer Richard J.
Published: February 2023

Allometric growth equations help to describe the correlation between the variables of tree biological characteristics (e.g., diameter and height, diameter and canopy width) and estimate tree dynamics at a given tree dimension. Allometric models of common tree species within urban forests are also important to relate ecosystem services to common urban tree measurements such as stem diameter. In this study, allometric growth models were developed for common tree species used for urban greening on the streets of seven municipal districts in Qingdao city of eastern China. A sampling survey was constructed on an urban–rural gradient to obtain the data of tree diameter, crown width, height to live crown base, and tree height. From these measurements, the crown volume and crown projection area of tree species were calculated. The allometric relationship between two variables was established using quantile regression models (95%, 50%, and 5%) to explore its correlation and the influence of tree species characteristics on urban tree allometry. Our results showed that the correlation of allometric growth of different tree species varied largely due to their own characteristics, and the allometric growth of the same tree species was significantly different as well under the fitting of different quantiles. We found that the relationship between crown width and diameter was stronger than that between tree height and diameter. Moreover, the allometric relationship between crown projection area–diameter and crown width–diameter showed similar fitting. The allometric relationship analysis provide theoretical models and a way to use common field data to support urban forestry management and for the subsequent evaluation and prediction of tree functions and ecosystem services.
Somatic Embryogenesis Induction and Genetic Stability Assessment of Plants Regenerated from Immature Seeds of Akebia trifoliate (Thunb.) Koidz
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Cao Yunmei , Wang Yida , Cai Xiaodong
Published: February 2023

Akebia trifoliata is a perennial woody plant with considerable potential in nutrition, food, and health, and the production of seedlings with high quality is critical for its economic utilization. Plant regeneration through somatic embryogenesis is a powerful alternative for propagating many plant species. In this study, a simple and practicable protocol was developed for plant regeneration from immature seeds of A. trifoliata via somatic embryogenesis, and the genetic stability of regenerated plants was also assessed. In the somatic embryo (SE) induction stage, the highest frequency of somatic embryogenesis (35.2%) was observed on the WPM medium containing 1.0 mg L−1 of thidiazuron (TDZ) and 1.0 mg L−1 of 6-benzyladenine (6-BA). The concentration of 6-BA was optimized at 1.0 mg L−1 for the proliferation and maturation of the induced SEs, and the combination of 2.0 mg L−1 of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and 0.5 mg L−1 of TDZ was the most responsive for root development and plant growth. The leaf morphological characteristics greatly varied among the established plants, and they could be grouped into three plant types, namely the normal type, Type Ι, and Type ΙΙ. Remarkable differences in the number, size, shape, and color of the leaflets were observed among the three types, while their ploidy level was the same via flow cytometry analysis. The Type ΙΙ and the Type Ι plants had the highest and the lowest net photosynthesis rate, transpiration rate, and stomatal conductance among the three groups, respectively, and both had a smaller size of stomatal guard cells than the normal type. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) analysis detected that 41 bands (43.62%) were different from those observed in the wild, indicating a high degree of polymorphism between the regenerants and their donor parent. The obtained plants might hold potential for future genetic improvement and breeding in A. trifoliata, and the established regeneration protocol might serve as a foundation for in vitro propagation and germplasm preservation of this crop.
Citizen Willingness to Pay for the Implementation of Urban Green Infrastructure in the Pilot Sponge Cities in China
Authors: Zhang Jingyi , Han Yunfan , Qiao Xiu-Juan , Randrup Thomas B.
Published: February 2023

Urban green infrastructure has been widely used to in cities to solve stormwater problems caused by extreme weather events and urbanization around the world. However, the lack of a long-term funding mechanism for performing urban green infrastructure’s functions has limited wider implementation. Factors influencing citizen attitudes and willingness to pay for urban green infrastructure vary from city to city. This study estimated the public’s willingness to pay for urban green infrastructure, as well as compared the selected influencing factors of willingness to pay in different Chinese pilot sponge cities. The results show that 60% to 75% of all respondents in the cities were willing to support the implementation of urban green infrastructure in sponge cities, with those most willing to pay around 0–5 RMB/month (0–0.72 USD/month). The respondents’ educational level was a significant influencing factor for their willingness to pay in all six cities, but age, gender and family monthly income correlated differently with respondents’ willingness to pay in different cities. Previous knowledge of the sponge city concept and sponge city construction in the community were not significantly correlated with residents’ willingness to pay. We conclude that local governments in China need to provide more information to the general public about the multiple ecosystem services, e.g., educational and recreational benefits, that urban green infrastructure can provide. In doing so, it will help a shift to urban green infrastructure as the solution to dealing with urban stormwater problems.
The Need to Establish a Social and Economic Database of Private Forest Owners: The Case of Lithuania
Authors: Perkumienė Dalia , Doftartė Asta , Škėma Mindaugas , Aleinikovas Marius , Elvan Osman Devrim
Published: February 2023

In Lithuania, as in other analyzed countries, greatest attention is concentrated on the protection and monitoring of state forests, while the situation in the private forest sector is quite unclear and uncertain. In most European countries, as well as in Lithuania, there are a lack of socio-economic data, and there are no planned forest monitoring methods and permanent programs. We claim that the problem of achieving sustainability in the forest sector, in the case of the estates of the private forest owners, could be partially solved by implementing the monitoring of social and economic indicators. This study proposes the need for the establishment of a social and economic database of private forest owners in Lithuania. In this article, we have carried out a detailed analysis of scientific sources and selected socio-economic indicators to help the adoption of optimal management solutions for sustainability in the private forest sector. To explore the need to establish a social and economic database of private forest owners in Lithuania, we conducted an empirical study by applying the method of semi-structured interview to a group of experts/specialists in the forestry field. Summarizing the results of the research, it can be concluded that the need for socio-economic information about the owners of private forests in Lithuania is obvious, as it would clarify the most pressing problems that forest owners face when farming in their forest estates. This information would also allow the improvement of policy formulation and implementation, the adoption of legal regulations, and the organization of the necessary changes in private forestry. Therefore, it is necessary to establish criteria and indicators that could ensure more sustainable forest management.
Biocultural Importance of the Chiuri Tree [Diploknema butyracea (Roxb.) H. J. Lam] for the Chepang Communities of Central Nepal
Authors: Uprety Yadav , Asselin Hugo
Published: February 2023

Major socio-economic changes over the last few decades have reduced Indigenous peoples’ engagement in cultural practices, such as harvesting of forest resources. Nevertheless, some species remain important for culture, subsistence and livelihood, such as the chiuri tree (Diploknema butyracea (Roxb.) H. J. Lam) to the Chepang people of Central Nepal. Using the cultural keystone species framework, we conducted interviews within Chepang communities to assess the biocultural importance of the chiuri tree. It is central to the Chepang culture, and no other species could provide the same benefits. It also provides food and habitat for a number of wildlife species, including bats, which are themselves culturally important. Strictly observed tree ownership rules, as well as a cultural ban on tree cutting and branch lopping, have so far contributed to chiuri conservation. However, these rules are increasingly less adhered to. Other threats to chiuri sustainability are excessive flower foraging by bees (reducing pollen production) and bat hunting (reducing pollen transport). Further studies are needed to quantify these threats and to adjust forest and wildlife management practices so that the cultural landscape continues to provide multiple benefits to the Chepang people. Our study of the chiuri case attests to the usefulness of the cultural keystone species framework in landscape assessment for management and conservation.
A Nonlinear Fractional BEM Model for Magneto-Thermo-Visco-Elastic Ultrasound Waves in Temperature-Dependent FGA Rotating Granular Plates
Authors: Fahmy Mohamed Abdelsabour
Published: February 2023

The primary goal of this study is to create a nonlinear fractional boundary element method (BEM) model for magneto-thermo-visco-elastic ultrasound wave problems in temperature-dependent functionally graded anisotropic (FGA) rotating granular plates in a constant primary magnetic field. Classical analytical methods are frequently insufficient to solve the governing equation system of such problems due to nonlinearity, fractional order heat conduction, and strong anisotropy of mechanical properties. To address this challenge, a BEM-based coupling scheme that is both reliable and efficient was proposed, with the Cartesian transformation method (CTM) used to compute domain integrals and the generalized modified shift-splitting (GMSS) method was used to solve the BEM-derived linear systems. The calculation results are graphed to show the effects of temperature dependence, anisotropy, graded parameter, and fractional parameter on nonlinear thermal stress in the investigated plates. The numerical results validate the consistency and effectiveness of the developed modeling methodology.
On Ostrowski–Mercer’s Type Fractional Inequalities for Convex Functions and Applications
Authors: Sahoo Soubhagya Kumar , Kashuri Artion , Aljuaid Munirah , Mishra Soumyarani , De La Sen Manuel
Published: February 2023

This research focuses on the Ostrowski–Mercer inequalities, which are presented as variants of Jensen’s inequality for differentiable convex functions. The main findings were effectively composed of convex functions and their properties. The results were directed by Riemann–Liouville fractional integral operators. Furthermore, using special means, q-digamma functions and modified Bessel functions, some applications of the acquired results were obtained.
An Intelligent Model for Supercapacitors with a Graphene-Based Fractal Electrode to Investigate the Cyclic Voltammetry
Authors: Kati Nida , Ucar Ferhat
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the performance measurement of supercapacitors using the electrochemical properties of cyclic voltammetry (CV). The use of CV is crucial in evaluating the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors and determining the surface area of the catalyst with regard to the fractal properties of the electrode. The study specifically focused on the CV behavior of a supercapacitor formed by a cobalt-doped ceria/reduced graphene oxide (Co-CeO2/rGO) fractal nanocomposite, and its assessment was conducted using a machine learning (ML) model with the enhanced XGBoost. The model was trained using an experimental open-source dataset. The results showed that the proposed XGBoost model had a superior ability to predict the CV behavior of the supercapacitor, with nearly perfect results for the MAE, RMSE, and R-squared metrics, which are effective at evaluating the performance of regression models. With the successful design of the proposed intelligent prediction model, the study is expected to provide valuable insights into forming novel nanocomposite forms with high accuracy and minimal need for experiments.
Significance of Micromorphological Characteristics and Expression of Intermediate Filament Proteins CK7 and CK20 in the Differential Diagnosis of Serrated Lesions of the Colorectum
Authors: Ilić Ivan , Ranđelović Pavle , Mijović Žaklina , Jovičić Milentijević Maja , Radovanović Dinić Biljana , Cvetković Jana
Published: February 2023

Serrated lesions in the colorectum include all epithelial neoplastic lesions, which show a sawtooth-like morphology in the epithelial crypts. Classification systems nosologically divide colon serrated polyps into three different categories, primarily emphasizing their micromorphological growth pattern and cytodifferentiation: (1) hyperplastic polyps, (2) sessile serrated adenomas/polyps and (3) traditional serrated adenomas. Overall, 109 patients with serrated lesions of the colon, who underwent endoscopic or surgical polypectomy/tumorectomy during one or multiple endoscopic or surgical interventions, over a four-year period, were analyzed. The average age of patients was 62.8 ± 11.6 years. The frequency of serrated lesions of the colon in male patients was 2.4 times higher than in females (70.6% vs. 29.4%). All sessile serrated lesions without dysplasia were positive for CK7 and statistically significant compared to other serrated lesions, if this positivity was present in the complete crypt (p = 0.005). CK20 positivity, which is limited to the upper half of the crypt, is a special feature of hyperplastic polyps compared to other serrated lesions, which is statistically significant (p = 0.0078). Whereas, CK20 positivity of complete crypts is a statistically significant feature of traditional serrated adenomas (p < 0.01). Differences in the expression pattern of cytokeratin 7 and 20 in different serrated lesions may indicate different pathways of colorectal carcinogenesis, and be diagnostically and prognostically useful.