bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the Salvia miltiorrhiza Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) Family in Response to Multiple Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Chen Junyu , Ying Yuxin , Yao Lingtiao , Xu Zhangting , Yu Zhenming , Kai Guoyin
Published: February 2024

Salvia miltiorrhiza is a plant commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its material bases for treating diseases are tanshinones and phenolic acids, including salvianolic acids. Histone deacetylase proteins (HDACs) are a class of specific functional enzymes that interact with acetylation groups on the N-terminal lysine of histone proteins further regulate gene transcription through structural changes at the chromatin level. HDACs involved in the growth and development of various plants, and induced by plant hormones to regulate the internal environment of plants to resist stress, at the same time affect the accumulation of some secondary metabolites. However, the role of SmHDACs on the accumulation of salvianolic acid in S. miltiorrhiza remains unclear. In this study, 16 SmHDACs genes were identified from the high-quality S. miltiorrhiza genome, their physicochemical properties were predicted. In phylogenetic trees co-constructed with HDACs proteins from other plants, SmHDACs was divided into three subfamilies, each with similar motif and conserved domain composition. The distribution of the three subfamilies is similar to that of dicotyledonous plants. Chromosome localization analysis showed that SmHDACs genes were randomly located. Cis-acting element analysis predicted that SmHDACs gene expression may be related to and induced by various phytohormones, such as MeJA and ABA. By combining the expression pattern and co-expression network induced by phytohormones, we speculate that SmHDACs may further influence the synthesis of salvianolic acid, and identified SmHDA5, a potential functional gene, then speculate its downstream target based on the co-expression network. In summary, we analyzed the SmHDACs gene family of S. miltiorrhiza and screened out the potential functional gene SmHDA5. From the perspective of epigenetics, we proposed the molecular mechanism of plant hormone promoting salvianolic acid synthesis, which filled the gap in the subdivision of histone deacetylase in S. miltiorrhiza research, provided a theoretical basis for the culture and transformation of S. miltiorrhiza germplasm resources.
Mechanical Performance of Extensive Restorations Made with Short Fiber-Reinforced Composites without Coverage: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies
Authors: Jakab András , Palkovics Dániel , T. Szabó Veronika , Szabó Balázs , Vincze-Bandi Eszter , Braunitzer Gábor , Lassila Lippo , Vallittu Pekka , Garoushi Sufyan , Fráter Márk
Published: February 2024

In recent years, composite resin materials have been the most frequently used materials for direct restorations of posterior teeth. These materials have some clinically relevant limitations due to their lack of fracture toughness, especially when used in larger cavities with high volume factors or when utilized as direct or indirect overlays or crown restorations. Recently, short-fiber-reinforced composite materials have been used in bi-structure restorations as a dentine substituting material due to their superior mechanical properties; however, there is no scientific consensus as to whether they can be used as full restorations. The aim of our review was to examine the available literature and gather scientific evidence on this matter. Two independent authors performed a thorough literature search using PubMed and ScienceDirect up until December 2023. This study followed the PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was assessed using the QUIN tool. The authors selected in vitro studies that used short-fiber-reinforced composite materials as complete restorations, with a conventional composite material as a comparison group. Out of 2079 potentially relevant articles, 16 met our inclusion criteria. All of the included studies reported that the usage of short-fiber-reinforced composites improved the restoration’s load-bearing capacity. Fifteen of the included publications examined the fracture pattern, and thirteen of them reported a more favorable fracture outcome for the short-fiber-reinforced group. Only one article reported a more favorable fracture pattern for the control group; however, the difference between groups was not significant. Within the limitations of this review, the evidence suggests that short-fiber-reinforced composites can be used effectively as complete restorations to reinforce structurally compromised teeth.
Numerical Modelling of the Thermoforming Behaviour of Thermoplastic Honeycomb Composite Sandwich Laminates
Authors: Minupala Varun Kumar , Zscheyge Matthias , Glaesser Thomas , Feldmann Maik , Altenbach Holm
Published: February 2024

Lightweight component design is effectively achievable through sandwich structures; many past research studies in the aerospace and racing sectors (since the 1920s) have proven it. To extend their application into the automotive and other transport industries, manufacturing cycle times must be reduced. This can be achieved by sandwich materials made of continuous fibre-reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) cover layers and thermoplastic honeycomb cores. To widen the application of flat thermoplastic-based sandwich panels into complex parts, a novel forming technology was developed by the Fraunhofer Institute of Microstructure of Materials and Systems (IMWS). Manufacturing defects like wrinkling and surface waviness should be minimised to achieve high reproducibility of the sandwich components. Studying different manufacturing parameters and their influence on the final part is complex and challenging to analyse through experiments, as it is time-consuming. Therefore, a finite element (FE) modelling approach is implemented to reduce such efforts. Initially, a thermoforming model is developed and validated with experimental results to check its reliability. Further, different simulations are performed to optimise the novel sandwich-forming process. In this study, a thermoplastic sandwich made of polypropylene (PP) honeycomb core and polypropylene glass fibre (PP/GF) cross-ply as cover layers was used, and its numerical model was executed in LS-DYNA software release R11.2.1.
Performance Degradation Modeling and Continuous Worktime Assessment of Ultrasonic Vibration Systems
Authors: Wang Ruoyu , You Lei , Hu Xiaoping
Published: February 2024

In order to assess the stable operating duration of an ultrasonic vibration system, a reliability-based analysis method for the stability of the ultrasonic vibration system is proposed. Firstly, the failure mechanisms of the ultrasonic vibration system are analyzed, and the resonant frequency and amplitude are selected as two degradation features of the system. Subsequently, accelerated degradation experiments under different force loads were conducted, and the degradation model of the ultrasonic vibration system was established by comparing experimental data with degradation, distribution, and acceleration models. Finally, Copula functions were introduced to connect the two degradation features, resonant frequency, and amplitude, and lifetime curves were plotted under the influence of univariate and bivariate degradation factors. Through the analysis of the lifetime curves, the conclusion is drawn that the decay of amplitude is the primary indicator of system lifetime, and it is predicted that the developed ultrasonic vibration system can operate continuously and stably for 26.69 h. This research is of great significance for enhancing the reliability and lifespan management of ultrasonic vibration systems.
Extensometry Study of the Most Appropriate Position and Arrangement of Stress-Breaker Bridges with Pier Abutment
Authors: Barletta del Campo Carolina , Gracia Rodríguez Javier , Fidalgo Valverde Gregorio , Sánchez Lasheras Fernando
Published: February 2024

The arrangement of a stress breaker in the pier abutment of a fixed-mobile bridge affects the deformations that may occur in its supports. This article aims to study the most appropriate position and arrangement of a stress breaker. To verify the established objectives, an experimental “in vitro” study was carried out with five different bridge designs: one with rigid connectors and four with non-rigid connectors (interlocks), placed on the distal and mesial surface of the intermediate abutment, and combining the retention stop at cervical and occlusal positions. The strain level at the support ground of each bridge was measured with strain gauges. The statistical analysis was performed with the help of the Kruskal–Wallis test and a linear regression model. Initial results show that the model with the highest average value of maximum strain is the non-rigid bridge with the interlock on the distal surface of the pier abutment and the occlusal retention stop. In any case, the presence of an intermediate abutment, with or without interlock, influences the maximum tension supported by the abutment, especially in relation to the intermediate abutment.
Plato, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien Using Literary and Philosophical Texts to Navigate Post-Pandemic and Political Teaching Challenges
Authors: Schultz Anne-Marie , Maples C. D.
Published: February 2024

We examine how Plato, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R Tolkien responded to tumultuous times that included the ongoing reality of death through wars and plagues and social unrest. More specifically, we draw upon the historical backdrop of Plato’s dialogues, C.S. Lewis’s essay, “Learning in War-time”, and Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings to bring to light important social and psychological dimensions of the learning process that may help students and educators navigate these tumultuous times that cause confrontation with death. We argue for a middle ground between emphasizing the “unprecedented” nature of events like COVID-19, the politically divisive state of affairs in America, the war in Ukraine, the devastation of earthquakes in Syria and Turkey, and the desire to find a new normal in the midst of world-wide turmoil. We first reflect on our experiences with pandemic teaching and learning. Then, we address some contemporary research on pandemic learning. Third, we turn to the historical backdrop of Plato’s dialogues, specifically the Plague, The Peloponnesian War, the rule of “The Thirty”, the restoration of democracy, and the Reconciliation Agreement in Athens. Fourth, we consider some of the effects of the first and second world wars for both C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Finally, we suggest that Gandalf emerges as a model of the middle ground we aim for in our pedagogical relationships.
Self-Prompting Tracking: A Fast and Efficient Tracking Pipeline for UAV Videos
Authors: Wang Zhixing , Zhou Gaofan , Yao Jinzhen , Zhang Jianlin , Bao Qiliang , Hu Qintao
Published: February 2024

In the realm of visual tracking, remote sensing videos captured by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have seen significant advancements with wide applications. However, there remain challenges to conventional Transformer-based trackers in balancing tracking accuracy and inference speed. This problem is further exacerbated when Transformers are extensively implemented at larger model scales. To address this challenge, we present a fast and efficient UAV tracking framework, denoted as SiamPT, aiming to reduce the number of Transformer layers without losing the discriminative ability of the model. To realize it, we transfer the conventional prompting theories in multi-model tracking into UAV tracking, where a novel self-prompting method is proposed by utilizing the target’s inherent characteristics in the search branch to discriminate targets from the background. Specifically, a self-distribution strategy is introduced to capture feature-level relationships, which segment tokens into distinct smaller patches. Subsequently, salient tokens within the full attention map are identified as foreground targets, enabling the fusion of local region information. These fused tokens serve as prompters to enhance the identification of distractors, thereby avoiding the demand for model expansion. SiamPT has demonstrated impressive results on the UAV123 benchmark, achieving success and precision rates of 0.694 and 0.890 respectively, while maintaining an inference speed of 91.0 FPS.
Towards Improved Satellite Data Utilization in China: Insights from an Integrated Evaluation of GSMaP-GNRT6 in Rainfall Patterns
Authors: Wang Zunya , Li Qingquan
Published: February 2024

To improve the utilization of satellite-based data and promote their development, this analysis comprehensively evaluates the performance of GSMaP Near-real-time Gauge-adjusted Rainfall Product version 6 (GSMaP_GNRT6) data in depicting precipitation over China from 2001 to 2020 by comparing four precipitation indices—accumulated precipitation, number of rainy days and rainstorm days, and precipitation maxima—with daily precipitation data from 2419 stations across China on monthly and annual time scales. The results show that the GSMaP-GNRT6 data effectively capture the overall spatial pattern of the four precipitation indices, but biases in the spatial distribution of the number of rainy days from July to September and the precipitation maxima during the wintertime are evident. A general underestimation of GSMaP-GNRT6 data is observed in the average for China. The annual precipitation amount, the number of rainy days and rainstorm days, and the precipitation maxima based on the GSMaP-GNRT6 data are 17.6%, 35.5%, 31.6% and 11.8% below the station observations, respectively. The GSMaP-GNRT6 data better depict the precipitation in eastern China, with the errors almost halved. And obvious overestimation of the number of rainstorm days and precipitation maxima occurs in western China, reaching up to 60%. Regarding the accumulated precipitation, the number of rainstorm days and the precipitation maxima, the GSMaP-GNRT6 data show an almost consistent interannual variation and increasing trends that are consistent with the station observations. However, the magnitude of the increasing trend based on the GSMaP-GNRT6 data is larger, especially at the beginning of the 21st century. Conversely, a considerable discrepancy in the annual variation and an almost opposite trend can be observed in the number of rainy days between the GSMaP-GNRT6 data and the station observations.
Intricacies of Opening Geometry Detection in Terrestrial Laser Scanning: An Analysis Using Point Cloud Data from BLK360
Authors: Jung Jinman , Kim Taesik , Min Hong , Kim Seongmin , Jung Young-Hoon
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the use of terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) in urban excavation sites, focusing on enhancing ground deformation detection by precisely identifying opening geometries, such as gaps between pavement blocks. The accuracy of TLS data, affected by equipment specifications, environmental conditions, and scanning geometry, is closely examined, especially with regard to the detection of openings between blocks. The experimental setup, employing the BLK360 scanner, aimed to mimic real-world paving situations with varied opening widths, allowing an in-depth analysis of how factors related to scan geometry, such as incidence angles and opening orientations, influence detection capabilities. Our examination of various factors and detection levels reveals the importance of the opening width and orientation in identifying block openings. We discovered the crucial role of the opening width, where larger openings facilitate detection in 2D cross-sections. The overall density of the point cloud was more significant than localized variations. Among geometric factors, the orientation of the local object geometry was more impactful than the incidence angle. Increasing the number of laser beam points within an opening did not necessarily improve detection, but beams crossing the secondary edge were vital. Our findings highlight that larger openings and greater overall point cloud densities markedly improve detection levels, whereas the orientation of local geometry is more critical than the incidence angle. The study also discusses the limitations of using a single BLK360 scanner and the subtle effects of scanning geometry on data accuracy, providing a thorough understanding of the factors that influence TLS data accuracy and reliability in monitoring urban excavations.
Scale Modular Test Platform for the Characterization of PD Measuring Systems Using HFCT Sensors
Authors: Arcones Eduardo , Álvarez Fernando , Khamlichi Abderrahim , Garnacho Fernando
Published: February 2024

Today, online partial discharge (PD) measurements are common practice to assess the condition status of dielectrics in high-voltage (HV) electrical grids. However, when online PD measurements are carried out in electrical facilities, several disadvantages must be considered. Among the most important are high levels of changing electrical noise and interferences, signal phase couplings (cross-talk phenomena), and the simultaneous presence of various defects and difficulties in localizing and identifying them. In the last few decades, various PD-measuring systems have been developed to deal with these inconveniences and try to achieve the adequate supervision of electrical installations. In the state of the art, one of the main problems that electrical companies and technology developers face is the difficulty in characterizing the measuring system’s functionalities in laboratory setups or in real-world facilities, where simulated or real defects must be detected. This is mainly due to the complexity and costs that the laboratory setups entail and the fact that the facilities are permanently in service. Furthermore, in the latter scenario, owners cannot assign facilities to carry out the tests, which could cause irreversible damage. Additionally, with the aforementioned installations, a comparison of results over time in various locations is not possible, and noise conditions cannot be controlled to perform the characterizations in a correct way. To deal with the problems indicated, in this article, an affordable scale modular test platform that simulates an HV installation is presented, where real on-site PD measuring conditions are simulated and controlled. In this first development, the HV installation comprises a cable system connected at both ends to a gas-insulated substation (GIS). As the most common acquisition technique in online applications is based on the placement of high-frequency current transformer (HFCT) sensors in the grounding cables of facilities, the test platform is mainly adapted to carry out measurements with this type of sensor. The designed and developed test platform was validated to assess its features and the degree of convergence with a real installation, showing the convenience of its use for the appropriate and standardized characterization of PD-measuring systems.
Black Phosphorus–Tungsten Oxide Sandwich-like Nanostructures for Highly Selective NO2 Detection
Authors: Zheng Canda , Shi Yunbo , Tang Bolun , Zhang Jianhua
Published: February 2024

Modern chemical production processes often emit complex mixtures of gases, including hazardous pollutants such as NO2. Although widely used, gas sensors based on metal oxide semiconductors such as WO3 respond to a wide range of interfering gases other than NO2. Consequently, developing WO3 gas sensors with high NO2 selectivity is challenging. In this study, a simple one-step hydrothermal method was used to prepare WO3 nanorods modified with black phosphorus (BP) flakes as sensitive materials for NO2 sensing, and BP-WO3-based micro-electromechanical system gas sensors were fabricated. The characterization of the as-prepared BP-WO3 composite through X-ray diffraction scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the successful formation of the sandwich-like nanostructures. The result of gas-sensing tests with 2–14 ppm NO2 indicated that the sensor response was 1.25–2.21 with response–recovery times of 36 and 36 s, respectively, at 190 °C. In contrast to pure WO3, which exhibited a response of 1.07–2.2 to 0.3–5 ppm H2S at 160 °C, BP-WO3 showed almost no response to H2S. Thus, compared with pure WO3, BP-WO3 exhibited significantly improved NO2 selectivity. Overall, the BP-WO3 composite with sandwich-like nanostructures is a promising material for developing highly selective NO2 sensors for practical applications.
Distributed MIMO Measurements for Integrated Communication and Sensing in an Industrial Environment
Authors: Nelson Christian , Li Xuhong , Fedorov Aleksei , Deutschmann Benjamin , Tufvesson Fredrik
Published: February 2024

Many concepts for future generations of wireless communication systems use coherent processing of signals from many distributed antennas. The aim is to improve communication reliability, capacity, and energy efficiency and provide possibilities for new applications through integrated communication and sensing. The large bandwidths available in the higher bands have inspired much work regarding sensing in the millimeter-wave (mmWave) and sub-THz bands; however, the sub-6 GHz cellular bands will still be the main provider of wide cellular coverage due to the more favorable propagation conditions. In this paper, we present a measurement system and results of sub-6 GHz distributed multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) measurements performed in an industrial environment. From the measurements, we evaluated the diversity for both large-scale and small-scale fading and characterized the link reliability. We also analyzed the possibility of multistatic sensing and positioning of users in the environment, with the initial results showing a mean-square error below 20 cm on the estimated position. Further, the results clearly showed that new channel models are needed that are spatially consistent and deal with the nonstationary channel properties among the antennas.
Towards Efficient Risky Driving Detection: A Benchmark and a Semi-Supervised Model
Authors: Cheng Qimin , Li Huanying , Yang Yunfei , Ling Jiajun , Huang Xiao
Published: February 2024

Risky driving is a major factor in traffic incidents, necessitating constant monitoring and prevention through Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). Despite recent progress, a lack of suitable data for detecting risky driving in traffic surveillance settings remains a significant challenge. To address this issue, Bayonet-Drivers, a pioneering benchmark for risky driving detection, is proposed. The unique challenge posed by Bayonet-Drivers arises from the nature of the original data obtained from intelligent monitoring and recording systems, rather than in-vehicle cameras. Bayonet-Drivers encompasses a broad spectrum of challenging scenarios, thereby enhancing the resilience and generalizability of algorithms for detecting risky driving. Further, to address the scarcity of labeled data without compromising detection accuracy, a novel semi-supervised network architecture, named DGMB-Net, is proposed. Within DGMB-Net, an enhanced semi-supervised method founded on a teacher–student model is introduced, aiming at bypassing the time-consuming and labor-intensive tasks associated with data labeling. Additionally, DGMB-Net has engineered an Adaptive Perceptual Learning (APL) Module and a Hierarchical Feature Pyramid Network (HFPN) to amplify spatial perception capabilities and amalgamate features at varying scales and levels, thus boosting detection precision. Extensive experiments on widely utilized datasets, including the State Farm dataset and Bayonet-Drivers, demonstrated the remarkable performance of the proposed DGMB-Net.
Design and 3D Electrical Simulations for a Controllable Equal-Gap Large-Area Silicon Drift Detector
Authors: Zhao Jun , Long Tao , Wang Mingyang , Liu Manwen , Tang Minghua , Li Zheng
Published: February 2024

In this study, a controllable equal-gap large-area silicon drift detector (L-SDD) is designed. The surface leakage current is reduced by reducing the SiO2-Si interface through the new controllable equal-gap design. The design of the equal gap also solves the problem whereby the gap widens due to the larger detector size in the previous SDD design, which leads to a large invalid area of the detector. In this paper, a spiral hexagonal equal-gap L-SDD of 1 cm radius is selected for design calculation, and we implement 3D modeling and simulation of the device. The simulation results show that the internal potential gradient distribution of the L-SDD is uniform and forms a drift electric field, with the direction of electron drift pointing towards the collecting anode. The L-SDD has an excellent electron drift channel inside, and this article also analyzes the electrical performance of the drift channel to verify the correctness of the design method of the L-SDD.
Convolutional Neural Networks for Raw Signal Classification in CNC Turning Process Monitoring
Authors: Stathatos Emmanuel , Tzimas Evangelos , Benardos Panorios , Vosniakos George-Christopher
Published: February 2024

This study addresses the need for advanced machine learning-based process monitoring in smart manufacturing. A methodology is developed for near-real-time part quality prediction based on process-related data obtained from a CNC turning center. Instead of the manual feature extraction methods typically employed in signal processing, a novel one-dimensional convolutional architecture allows the trained model to autonomously extract pertinent features directly from the raw signals. Several signal channels are utilized, including vibrations, motor speeds, and motor torques. Three quality indicators—average roughness, peak-to-valley roughness, and diameter deviation—are monitored using a single model, resulting in a compact and efficient classifier. Training data are obtained via a small number of experiments designed to induce variability in the quality metrics by varying feed, cutting speed, and depth of cut. A sliding window technique augments the dataset and allows the model to seamlessly operate over the entire process. This is further facilitated by the model’s ability to distinguish between cutting and non-cutting phases. The base model is evaluated via k-fold cross validation and achieves average F1 scores above 0.97 for all outputs. Consistent performance is exhibited by additional instances trained under various combinations of design parameters, validating the robustness of the proposed methodology.
Does Grappling Combat Sports Experience Influence Exercise Tolerance of Handgrip Muscles in the Severe-Intensity Domain?
Authors: Junior Rubens Correa , Barreto Renan Vieira , Oliveira Anderson Souza , Greco Camila Coelho
Published: February 2024

Successful performance in grappling combat sports (GCS) can be influenced by the fighter’s capacity to sustain high-intensity contractions of the handgrip muscles during combat. This study investigated the influence of GCS experience on the critical torque (CT), impulse above CT (W′), tolerance, and neuromuscular fatigue development during severe-intensity handgrip exercise by comparing fighters and untrained individuals. Eleven GCS fighters and twelve untrained individuals participated in three experimental sessions for handgrip muscles: (1) familiarization with the experimental procedures and strength assessment; (2) an all-out test to determine CT and W′; and (3) intermittent exercise performed in the severe-intensity domain (CT + 15%) until task failure. No significant differences were found in CT and neuromuscular fatigue between groups (p > 0.05). However, GCS fighters showed greater W′ (GCS fighters 2238.8 ± 581.2 N·m·s vs. untrained 1670.4 ± 680.6 N·m·s, p < 0.05) and exercise tolerance (GCS fighters 8.38 ± 2.93 min vs. untrained 5.36 ± 1.42 min, p < 0.05) than untrained individuals. These results suggest that long-term GCS sports training can promote increased tolerance to severe-intensity handgrip exercise and improved W′ without changes in CT or the magnitude of neuromuscular fatigue.
Drivers of Pro-Ecological Behaviour Norms among Environmentalists, Hunters and the General Public
Authors: Konietzny Colette , Konietzny Jirka , Caruana Albert
Published: February 2024

The processes of industrialisation and urbanisation have substantially severed our connection with nature, causing detrimental effects on our ecosystems that underline the urgent necessity for sustainability-driven transformations. However, the dedication to sustainable practices depends on various factors and differs among different groups. This study employs the Value–Belief–Norm Theory of Environmentalism to investigate the impact of the New Ecological Paradigm (NEP), Connectedness to Nature (CNS), agricultural land stewardship, age and gender identity on pro-ecological personal norms. Data collection took place in Malta, an island state characterised by competing pressures over its land use. To encompass diverse group viewpoints, purposive sampling techniques were utilised, engaging environmentalists, hunters, and representatives from the general public. The findings obtained from hierarchical multiple regression analysis highlight a noteworthy positive impact of NEP, CNS, agricultural land stewardship, and age, which collectively explain 40% of the variance in pro-ecological personal norms. The identification of these drivers can provide directions for facilitating the implementation of educational, environmental and legislative policies that can help nurture and foster a sustainable relationship between humans and nature.
Tracing Water Recharge and Transport in the Root-Zone Soil of Different Vegetation Types in the Poyang Lake Floodplain Wetland (China) Using Stable Isotopes
Authors: Xu Xiuli , Zhao Jun , Wu Guangdong , Li Yunliang , Hou Lili
Published: February 2024

Background: root-zone water transport is crucial in the water transformation from precipitation to groundwater, directly influencing soil moisture distribution and resource acquisition for wetland plants. Methods: This study investigated the movement mechanism of root-zone (0–80 cm) soil water in the Poyang Lake wetland, China, during a dry year. Hydrological observation and stable isotopes (δ18O and δD) were utilized. Results: The root-zone soil water content was low (2.9–12.6%) at the high site covered by Artemisia capillaris, while it remained high (25.2–30.2%) at the median and low sites covered by Phragmites australis and Carex cinerascens, respectively. The isotopic values of shallow soil water (0–40 cm) in the A. capillaris site followed the seasonal pattern of rainfall isotopes, indicating predominantly rainfall recharge. Rainfall was primarily transported by piston flow, with an infiltration depth of approximately 60 cm. Conversely, depleted water isotopes measured at certain depths in P. australis and C. cinerascens sites closely resembled those of rainfall, suggesting that preferential flow dominated. The average groundwater contribution proportions in root-zone soil water were 65.5% and 57.4% in P. australis and C. cinerascens sites, respectively, while no contribution was detected in A. capillaris site. Conclusions: Preferential flow and groundwater recharge occurred in the P. australis and C. cinerascens sites. They enhance the hydrological connection at the profile scale and are useful for maintaining a favorable root-zone moisture environment for wetland ecosystems in dry years. However, the hydrological connectivity between root-zone soil and groundwater was found to be obstructed in the A. capillaris site. This might be the main reason for vegetation degradation at high elevations in the Poyang Lake wetland.
A Critical Approach to Existing Management Perspectives in Scuba Diving: A Step in Defining Ecological Carrying Capacity
Authors: Hipólito Cláudia , Lopes Fernando , Gonçalves Jorge , Calado Helena
Published: February 2024

There are a considerable number of studies reporting the negative impacts of recreational diving and their causes, yet there is a gap in the information regarding the aspects of activity management. This paper presents a systematic approach to the management measures found in the literature. A large part of the measures identified address stakeholders’ awareness, data on the activity, and implementing adapted management measures. Stakeholders need to be integrated into the entire process of managing the activity because they are the target for correcting actions. A knowledge gap of the evaluation of the “ecological carrying capacity” of dive sites exists, along with a lack of methods for its assessment. This study informs future steps on the development of an integrated management and monitoring model that encompasses the assessment of ecological carrying capacity in further research. It also brings a vision of sustainable management of the recreational diving activity by advancing the conceptual framework of scuba diving and tourism integrated management.
Analysis of Multinational Builders’ Corruption Based on Evolutionary Game from the Perspective of International Reputation
Authors: Haiyirete Xuekelaiti , Wang Jian , Tuluhong Ayiguzhali , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2024

Transnational cooperation in international corporations has become an important force in promoting the economic development of countries, and corruption in cross-cultural business has an important impact on the sustainable development of international cooperation. Based on the construction field, this study applies evolutionary game theory to the microlevel to investigate the corrupt behavior of international corporations from reputation perspectives, taking into account their reputation and cooperation behaviors. The findings indicate that the sensitivity of each party involved in the corruption behavior differs concerning international reputation, and a heightened reputation of the supervisory company can effectively curb the corrupt behavior of subcontracting. Additionally, the behavior of the general contracting company shows a sense of inertia, while the three main parties—general contracting company, supervisory company, and subcontracting company—exhibit multistage decision-making characteristics as their international reputation gradually improves. Through the lens of multinational enterprise cooperation and the development of the construction industry, this study aims to address the constraints faced by the construction industry in various countries and identify potential solutions. Furthermore, it provides insights into key issues related to international engineering corruption governance.
Simultaneous Removal of Arsenate and Fluoride Using Magnesium-Based Adsorbents
Authors: Sugita Hajime , Morimoto Kazuya , Saito Takeshi , Hara Junko
Published: February 2024

In this study, arsenate, As(V), and fluoride (F) were simultaneously removed from contaminated water using MgO, Mg(OH)2, and MgCO3 as Mg-based adsorbents, as existing studies only focus on their individual removal. The removal performance of As(V) and F followed the order MgCO3 < Mg(OH)2 < MgO. Under the test conditions, MgO and Mg(OH)2 met the environmental standards for As and F (0.01 and 0.8 mg/L, respectively), but MgCO3 did not. The As(V) removal performance was not significantly affected by an increase in the initial F concentration. It was concluded that As(V) was adsorbed and removed more preferentially than F by Mg-based adsorbents because a considerable amount of F remained even when the majority of As(V) was removed. Most arsenic (As)-adsorption data for MgO fit the Langmuir and Freundlich models, whereas those for Mg(OH)2 did not fit either model well. Additionally, the As-adsorption data for MgCO3 fit the Freundlich model but not the Langmuir model. Most of the F-adsorption data for the Mg-based adsorbents fit the Langmuir and Freundlich models. The removal mechanisms of As(V) and F using Mg-based adsorbents were assumed to be predominantly caused by ion-exchange and chemical-adsorption reactions on the adsorbent surface because no magnesium arsenate, magnesium fluoride, or magnesium hydroxide fluoride species were observed in the X-ray diffraction analysis. This research advances the sustainable As–F simultaneous treatment method using inexpensive adsorbents.
Sustainable Supply Chain Management in the Oil and Gas Industry in Developing Countries as a Part of the Quadruple Helix Concept: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Atstāja Dzintra , Mukem Kevin Wilclif
Published: February 2024

Sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) has become a hot topic on which eminent researchers are working on a daily basis. A lack of clarity in the fundamental differences between SSCM and green supply chain management (GSCM) is being observed in this field of research. However, it is regrettable to note that there is a huge deficit of research in the oil and gas (OG) industry, mainly in developing countries (DCs), where this sector of activity is the most lucrative and polluting. The purpose of this research is to present the practices of SSCM in the framework of the quadruple helix approach in the oil and gas industry in specific geographical areas of developing countries by conducting a systematic literature review (SLR) of papers published from 2012 to 2024 focused on both the OG industry and DCs. As part of this study’s findings, the authors highlight the distinction between SSCM and GSCM by building a conceptual framework that applies the triple bottom line of SSCM to the OG industry and demonstrates that GSCM, which is more related to environmental issues, is a part of SSCM. Therefore, in order to be more efficient and to have a great impact on their performances, OG companies in DCs should apply SSCM practices, which are close to circular business rather than GSCM practices, especially because their implementation can be influenced by certain barriers and pressures that involve the use of the QHC.
Macroinvertebrate Community in a Mediterranean Mountain River: Relationship with Environmental Factors Measured at Different Spatial and Temporal Scales
Authors: García-García Cristóbal , Gilbert Juan Diego , Guerrero Francisco
Published: February 2024

The macroinvertebrate community, physical–chemical water variables and hydromorphological indices were studied in the Turón River (Málaga, Southern Spain). Our study aims to improve the knowledge of the most influential environmental factors at different spatial and temporal scales in Mediterranean rivers, in order to establish better management of Mediterranean river ecosystems. To this end, in this work, seasonal sampling was carried out for one year to evaluate the effect of the characteristics of the drainage basin (i.e., geology, topography, land use) on the macroinvertebrate community. To this end, the environmental variables of the catchment basins were evaluated at three different scales: (i) watershed level, (ii) valley segment level and (iii) local level. The results showed that 13 environmental variables, 3 at the watershed scale, 5 at the valley segment scale and 5 at the local scale, influenced the macroinvertebrate community. Land use is the main explanatory variable at the watershed scale, while stream channel curvature is the most common variable at the valley segment scale, and the habitat assessment index is the variable with the strongest influence at the local scale. The influence of different spatial scales presented a seasonal variation. During spring, autumn and winter, the watershed scale exhibited the highest resolution (adjusted R2 = 0.20–0.29), while in summer, the local scale became the most significant in explaining the presence of macroinvertebrate taxa (adjusted R2 = 0.17). The obtained results emphasize the significance of temporal and spatial scales in Mediterranean rivers for adequate river ecosystem management.
Building Sustainable and Connected Communities by Addressing Public Transportation’s First-Mile Problem: Insights from a Stated Preference Survey in El Paso, Texas
Authors: Li Wei , Lee Chanam , Towne Samuel D. , Zhong Sinan , Bian Jiahe , Lee Hanwool , Lee Sungmin , Zhu Xuemei , Noh Youngre , Song Yang , Ory Marcia G.
Published: February 2024

Public transportation is an essential component of building sustainable communities. However, its ridership remains low in most cities in the United States. Among the major barriers is the long distance to the bus stops, called the first-mile problem. Using a stated preference survey among 1056 residents of El Paso, Texas, this study addresses this problem by estimating additional transit trips that can be expected from the implementation of hypothetical, free shuttles between one’s home and the closest bus stops. Participants reported 7.73 additional transit trips per week (469% increase from the current baseline), including 3.03 additional trips for work, 1.94 for daily errands, 1.64 for leisure or social, and 0.93 for exercise or sports. The percentage of transit non-users dropped from 77.6% (baseline) to 38.2%. With the free shuttle service, respondents would favor bus rapid transit more than regular buses (4.72 vs. 3.00 additional trips). Residents identifying as an existing transit user, being Hispanic/Latino, owning at least one automobile, living within 1 mile of a transit stop, and feeling safe while riding the bus would make significantly more transit trips due to the service. This study suggests that programs to address/reduce the first-mile problem could increase transit demand and, therefore, contribute to creating sustainable and more connected communities.
Maximizing Four-Wave Mixing in Four-Subband Semiconductor Quantum Wells with Optimal-Shortcut Spatially Varying Control Fields
Authors: Stefanatos Dionisis , Paspalakis Emmanuel
Published: February 2024

In the present article, we derive optimal spatially varying control fields, which maximize the four-wave mixing efficiency in a four-subband semiconductor asymmetric double quantum well, following analogous works in atomic systems. The control fields coherently prepare the medium, where a weak probe pulse is propagated and eventually converted to a signal pulse at the output. The optimal fields, which maximize the conversion efficiency for a given propagation length, are obtained by applying optimal control theory to a simplified form of propagation equations but are tested with numerical simulations using the full set of Maxwell–Schrödinger equations, which accurately describe the propagation of light pulses in the medium. For short propagation distances, the proposed optimal scheme outperforms a simpler spatially changing control protocol that we recently studied, while for larger distances, the efficiency of both protocols approaches unity. The present work is expected to find application in frequency conversion between light beams, conversion between light beams carrying orbital angular momentum, and nonlinear optical amplification.
An Improved Public Key Cryptographic Algorithm Based on Chebyshev Polynomials and RSA
Authors: Zhang Chunfu , Liang Yanchun , Tavares Adriano , Wang Lidong , Gomes Tiago , Pinto Sandro
Published: February 2024

Due to its very desirable properties, Chebyshev polynomials are often used in the design of public key cryptographic systems. This paper discretizes the Chebyshev mapping, generalizes the properties of Chebyshev polynomials, and proposes an improved public key encryption algorithm based on Chebyshev chaotic mapping and RSA, i.e., CRPKC−Ki. This algorithm introduces alternative multiplication coefficients Ki, the selection of which is determined by the size of TrTdxmod N=TdTrxmod N, and the specific value selection rules are shared secrets among participants, overcoming the shortcomings of previous schemes. In the key generation and encryption/decryption stages, more complex intermediate processes are used to achieve higher algorithm complexity, making the algorithm more robust against ordinary attacks. The algorithm is also compared with other RSA-based algorithms to demonstrate its effectiveness in terms of performance and security.
Based Copula Reliability Estimation with Stress-Strength Model for Bivariate Stress under Progressive Type II Censoring
Authors: Wang Junrui , Yan Rongfang
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the dependence between stress and component strength in a stress–strength model with bivariate stresses by incorporating a specialized Archimedean copula, specifically the 3-dimensional Clayton copula. Diverging from prior research, we consider a scenario where two stresses simultaneously influence the component strength, enhancing the realism of our model. Initially, dependent parameter estimates were obtained through moment estimation. Subsequently, maximum likelihood estimation and Bayesian estimation were employed to acquire point and interval estimates for the model parameters. Finally, numerical simulations and real-world data analysis were conducted to validate the accuracy and practicality of our proposed model. This research establishes a foundation for further exploration of general dependence structures and multi-component stress–strength correlation issues.
HIV–TB Coinfection: Current Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Interactions
Authors: Navasardyan Inesa , Miwalian Rita , Petrosyan Aelita , Yeganyan Stephanie , Venketaraman Vishwanath
Published: February 2024

The co-occurrence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) infection poses a significant global health challenge. Treatment of HIV and TB co-infection often necessitates combination therapy involving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV and anti-TB medications, which introduces the potential for drug–drug interactions (DDIs). These interactions can significantly impact treatment outcomes, the efficacy of treatment, safety, and overall patient well-being. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the DDIs between anti-HIV and anti-TB drugs as well as potential adverse effects resulting from the concomitant use of these medications. Furthermore, such findings may be used to develop personalized therapeutic strategies, dose adjustments, or alternative drug choices to minimize the risk of adverse outcomes and ensure the effective management of HIV and TB co-infection.
Two Novel Betarhabdovirins Infecting Ornamental Plants and the Peculiar Intracellular Behavior of the Cytorhabdovirus in the Liana Aristolochia gibertii
Authors: Ramos-González Pedro Luis , Alexandre Maria Amelia Vaz , Potsclam-Barro Matheus , Duarte Lígia Maria Lembo , Michea Gonzalez Gianluca L. , Chabi-Jesus Camila , Ramos Alyne F. , Harakava Ricardo , Lorenzi Harri , Freitas-Astúa Juliana , Kitajima Elliot Watanabe
Published: February 2024

Two novel members of the subfamily Betarhabdovirinae, family Rhabdoviridae, were identified in Brazil. Overall, their genomes have the typical organization 3′-N-P-P3-M-G-L-5′ observed in mono-segmented plant-infecting rhabdoviruses. In aristolochia-associated cytorhabdovirus (AaCV), found in the liana aristolochia (Aristolochia gibertii Hook), an additional short orphan ORF encoding a transmembrane helix was detected between P3 and M. The AaCV genome and inferred encoded proteins share the highest identity values, consistently < 60%, with their counterparts of the yerba mate chlorosis-associated virus (Cytorhabdovirus flaviyerbamate). The second virus, false jalap virus (FaJV), was detected in the herbaceous plant false jalap (Mirabilis jalapa L.) and represents together with tomato betanucleorhabdovirus 2, originally found in tomato plants in Slovenia, a tentative new species of the genus Betanucleorhabdovirus. FaJV particles accumulate in the perinuclear space, and electron-lucent viroplasms were observed in the nuclei of the infected cells. Notably, distinct from typical rhabdoviruses, most virions of AaCV were observed to be non-enclosed within membrane-bounded cavities. Instead, they were frequently seen in close association with surfaces of mitochondria or peroxisomes. Unlike FaJV, AaCV was successfully graft-transmitted to healthy plants of three species of the genus Aristolochia, while mechanical and seed transmission proved unsuccessful for both viruses. Data suggest that these viruses belong to two new tentative species within the subfamily Betarhabdovirinae.