bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ferroelectric Domain Intrinsic Radiation Resistance of Lithium Niobate Ferroelectric Single−Crystal Film
Authors: Li Jiahe , He Jinlong , Niu Liya , Lu Hao , Qiao Xiaojun , Zhong Bo , Xun Mingzhu , Chou Xiujian , Geng Wenping
Published: June 2024

The study of the properties of ferroelectric materials against irradiation has a long history. However, anti−irradiation research on the ferroelectric domain has not been carried out. In this paper, the irradiation of switched domain structure is innovatively proposed. The switched domain of 700 nm lithium niobate (LiNbO3, LN) thin film remains stable after gamma irradiation from 1 krad to 10 Mrad, which was prepared by piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM). In addition, the changing law of domain wall resistivity is explored through different sample voltages, and it is verified that the irradiated domain wall conductivity is still larger than the domain. This domain wall current (DWC) property can be applied to storage, logic, sensing, and other devices. Based on these, a ferroelectric domain irradiation resistance model is established, which explains the reason at an atomic level. The results open a possibility for exploiting ferroelectric materials as the foundation in the application of space and nuclear fields.
Pressure-Driven Responses in Cd2SiO4 and Hg2GeO4 Minerals: A Comparative Study
Authors: Singh Jaspreet , Errandonea Daniel , Kanchana Venkatakrishnan , Vaitheeswaran Ganapathy
Published: June 2024

The structural, elastic, and electronic properties of orthorhombic Cd2SiO4 and Hg2GeO4 were examined under varying pressure conditions using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory employing the Projector Augmented Wave method. The obtained cell parameters at 0 GPa were found to align well with existing experimental data. We delved into the pressure dependence of normalized lattice parameters and elastic constants. In Cd2SiO4, all lattice constants decreased as pressure increased, whereas, in Hg2GeO4, parameters a and b decreased while parameter c increased under pressure. Employing the Hill average method, we calculated the elastic moduli and Poisson’s ratio up to 10 GPa, noting an increase with pressure. Evaluation of ductility/brittleness under pressure indicated both compounds remained ductile throughout. We also estimated elastic anisotropy and Debye temperature under varying pressures. Cd2SiO4 and Hg2GeO4 were identified as indirect band gap insulators, with estimated band gaps of 3.34 eV and 2.09 eV, respectively. Interestingly, Cd2SiO4 exhibited a significant increase in band gap with increasing pressure, whereas the band gap of Hg2GeO4 decreased under pressure, revealing distinct structural and electronic responses despite their similar structures.
Impact of Adjuvant Atezolizumab on Recurrences Avoided and Treatment Cost Savings for Patients with Stage II-IIIA Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in Canada
Authors: Chu Quincy , Sripada Kaushik , Vaselenak Sarah , Jovanoski Nick , Arnold Melina
Published: June 2024

This epidemiological model forecasted reductions in recurrences and recurrence treatment cost savings with adjuvant atezolizumab vs best supportive care among Canadians with stage II-IIIA non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at national and provincial levels. The population had resected, programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1)–high (≥50%), EGFR−, ALK−, stage II-IIIA NSCLC eligible for adjuvant treatment. Patients with recurrence or death and the costs of treating recurrences were estimated for those receiving adjuvant atezolizumab or best supportive care each year (2024–2034). Proportions of patients expected to be event free up to 10 years after treatment initiation were extrapolated with parametric survival analyses. In the base case analysis, 240 fewer recurrences were estimated to occur over 10 years (2024–2034) with adjuvant atezolizumab vs best supportive care across Canada, with 136 (57%) and 104 (43%) fewer locoregional and metastatic recurrences, respectively. Projected costs of treated recurrences were CAD 33.2 million less over 10 years with adjuvant atezolizumab at a national level (adjuvant atezolizumab, CAD 135.8 million; best supportive care, CAD 169.0 million). This model predicts a considerable long-term reduction in recurrences and substantial treatment cost savings with adjuvant atezolizumab vs best supportive care for patients with PD-L1–high early-stage NSCLC in Canada.
Reptile Biodiversity and Vulnerability in Bolivia’s Beni Department: Informing Conservation Priorities in a Neglected Frontier
Authors: Eversole Cord B. , Powell Randy L. , Rivas Luis R. , Lizarro Dennis E.
Published: June 2024

The Department of Beni, in the country of Bolivia, is thought to host a significant level of biodiversity as a result of its tropical, moist, and diverse climate and landscape. However, the biodiversity of Beni is also considered poorly known and understudied due to its inaccessible landscapes, socio-economic challenges, and an overall lack of biodiversity infrastructure. This emphasizes the need for comprehensive species inventories and the development of effective conservation policies and strategies. We conducted an assessment of biodiversity, environmental vulnerability, and conservation status of reptiles documented in Beni. We identified 169 reptile species, spanning three orders and twenty-five families that have been officially documented in Beni. Utilizing the Environmental Vulnerability Score (EVS), we classified these species into high (17.8%), medium (68.1%), and low (14.2%) vulnerability categories, while IUCN categorization revealed 1.8% of reptile species in Beni are classified as vulnerable and 0.6% as near threatened. We found significant differences in ecological drivers of vulnerability among species within all categories (high, medium, low), with habitat specificity and human persecution being significantly higher for high and medium-vulnerability species. Our results demonstrate the intricate vulnerabilities of Beni’s reptiles, highlighting the need for comprehensive, species-specific conservation strategies and planning. Most importantly, our results offer a consolidated framework of information on reptile biodiversity and conservation for researchers, conservationists, and policymakers to use and build upon in the future that will facilitate the development of biodiversity infrastructure not only in the Department of Beni but throughout Bolivia and the Neotropics
Clinical Validation of a Deep Learning-Based Software for Lumbar Bone Mineral Density and T-Score Prediction from Chest X-ray Images
Authors: Tseng Sheng-Chieh , Lien Chia-En , Lee Cheng-Hung , Tu Kao-Chang , Lin Chia-Hui , Hsiao Amy Y. , Teng Shin , Chiang Hsiao-Hung , Ke Liang-Yu , Han Chun-Lin , Lee Yen-Cheng , Huang An-Chih , Yang Dun-Jhu , Tsai Chung-Wen , Chen Kun-Hui
Published: June 2024

Screening for osteoporosis is crucial for early detection and prevention, yet it faces challenges due to the low accuracy of calcaneal quantitative ultrasound (QUS) and limited access to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans. Recent advances in AI offer a promising solution through opportunistic screening using existing medical images. This study aims to utilize deep learning techniques to develop a model that analyzes chest X-ray (CXR) images for osteoporosis screening. This study included the AI model development stage and the clinical validation stage. In the AI model development stage, the combined dataset of 5122 paired CXR images and DXA reports from the patients aged 20 to 98 years at a medical center was collected. The images were enhanced and filtered for hardware retention such as pedicle screws, bone cement, artificial intervertebral discs or severe deformity in target level of T12 and L1. The dataset was then separated into training, validating, and testing datasets for model training and performance validation. In the clinical validation stage, we collected 440 paired CXR images and DXA reports from both the TCVGH and Joy Clinic, including 304 pared data from TCVGH and 136 paired data from Joy Clinic. The pre-clinical test yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.940, while the clinical validation showed an AUC of 0.946. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was 0.88. The model demonstrated an overall accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 89.0%, 88.7%, and 89.4%, respectively. This study proposes an AI model for opportunistic osteoporosis screening through CXR, demonstrating good performance and suggesting its potential for broad adoption in preliminary screening among high-risk populations.
Exploring the Susceptibility to Multiple Primary Tumors in Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Valerio Laura , Cantara Silvia , Mattii Elisa , Dalmiglio Cristina , Sagnella Alfonso , Salvemini Antonia , Cartocci Alessandra , Maino Fabio , Castagna Maria Grazia
Published: June 2024

Purpose: It was demonstrated that differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) patients may develop multiple primary tumors (MPT) during follow-up. Many studies showed an association between reduced telomere length and cancer phenotype; in particular, the short telomeres were associated with the development of a primary tumor. However, the role of altered telomere length in MPT development has not yet been demonstrated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible correlation between a short telomere length in blood leukocytes and the risk of developing MPT in DTC patients. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 167 DTC patients followed up for a median of 13.6 years. Our control group was represented by 105 healthy subjects without any thyroid disease or present or past history of tumors. Our study groups, age-matched, were evaluated for the relative telomere length measured in leukocytes of peripheral venous blood. Results: The relative telomere length (RTL) was significantly different in healthy subjects compared to the total group of differentiated thyroid cancer patients [p < 0.0001]. Shorter telomeres length was observed in DTC patients with (n = 32) and without (n = 135) MPT compared to healthy subjects (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0002, respectively). At multivariate analysis, the parameters independently associated with the presence of MPT were RTL [OR: 0.466 (0.226–0.817), p = 0.018] and the familial DTC [OR: 2.949 (1.142–8.466), p = 0.032]. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest a role of the relative telomere length in predicting MPT development in DTC patients. Our results contribute to increasing the knowledge of the genetic mechanisms underlying MPT development in DTC patients, considering relative telomere length as a possible prognostic marker.
Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Aspirin for Primary Cardiovascular Prevention in Asian Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Population-Based and Propensity Score-Matched Study
Authors: Chang Kai-Wei , Huang Jing-Yang , Yang Shun-Fa , Ueng Kwo-Chang
Published: June 2024

The risk of developing cardiovascular disease is significantly higher for individuals with diabetes compared to those without. Aspirin has been widely used for primary prevention in diabetic patients. However, evidence is limited in the Asian population. We aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of aspirin versus placebo for primary cardiovascular prevention in the Asian population with type 2 diabetes. In this study, we performed propensity score matching with non-aspirin users from January 2006 to December 2015 (n = 37,095 in each group after matching, PSM). We analyzed the incidence risk of all-cause mortality, composite cardiovascular events, and hospitalized major bleeding. The propensity score-matched (PSM) cohort of patients who received aspirin within one year of diabetes diagnosis was compared with the non-aspirin diabetic (DM) cohort. Baseline characteristics were balanced between the two groups. The median follow-up duration was 78 months. Aspirin users exhibited a slightly but significantly lower rate of all-cause mortality (HR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.87 to 0.96). However, they also had a significantly higher composite cardiovascular risk (HR: 1.34; 95% CI: 1.28–1.40), including non-fatal acute myocardial infarction (HR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.18 to 1.50), non-fatal ischemic stroke (HR: 1.38; 95% CI: 1.30 to 1.45), heart failure (HR: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.27), and coronary revascularization (HR: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.73 to 2.17). Aspirin users also faced a significantly higher risk of hospitalized major bleeding (HR: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.14). The presence of one or more additional risk factors did not influence the effectiveness and safety outcomes of aspirin, according to stratified analysis. In conclusion, in this real-world Asian diabetic population, aspirin was associated with a significantly lower mortality risk but also with higher risks of cardiovascular events and hospitalized bleeding. Aspirin may not play a role in the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in such patients, regardless of additional risk factors.
Analysis of the Pulpal Blood Flow Microdynamics during Prosthetic Tooth Preparation Using Diamond Burs with Different Degrees of Wear
Authors: Ciora Edmond , Miron Mariana , Lungeanu Diana , Igna Andreea , Jivanescu Anca
Published: June 2024

Pulpal modifications taking place during prosthetic tooth preparation using worn-out burs may represent a risk for the vitality of the dental pulp. The aim of this in vivo study was to evaluate whether the wear of diamond burs has an influence on the vascular microdynamics at the level of the dental pulp, during vertical preparation for zirconia crowns. The study was performed with a split-mouth design and included 32 vital permanent monoradicular teeth (20 maxillary and 12 mandibular), from six subjects, aged between 20 and 50 years. The teeth were randomly assigned to two study groups of 16 teeth each. For prosthetic preparation, new burs were used in the first group, and burs at their 5th use were used in the second group. Four consecutive determinations of the pulpal blood flow by Laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF—laser Doppler MoorLab instrument VMS-LDF2, Moor Instruments Ltd., Axminster, UK) were taken for each tooth included in the study: before the preparation (control values), immediately, at 24 h, and at 7 days after the prosthetic preparation. A four-way ANOVA statistical analysis was applied to analyze the effect of four considered factors (bur wear degree, time of measurement, tooth number, and tooth location) on the pulpal blood flow (PBF). A significant increase in pulpal blood flow compared to the baseline was recorded immediately after preparation (p < 0.01), at 24 h (p < 0.01), and at 7 days (p < 0.05) in both groups, but more pronounced in the case of burs at the 5th use. The blood flow was significantly higher in upper jaw teeth, irrespective of the measurement time. In conclusion, the use of worn-out diamond burs produces lasting modifications in the pulpal blood flow of teeth that undergo prosthetic crown preparation. ISRCTN registry: ISRCTN49594720.
Diagnosis Aid System for Colorectal Cancer Using Low Computational Cost Deep Learning Architectures
Authors: Gago-Fabero Álvaro , Muñoz-Saavedra Luis , Civit-Masot Javier , Luna-Perejón Francisco , Rodríguez Corral José María , Domínguez-Morales Manuel
Published: June 2024

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. To prevent deaths, regular screenings with histopathological analysis of colorectal tissue should be performed. A diagnostic aid system could reduce the time required by medical professionals, and provide an initial approach to the final diagnosis. In this study, we analyze low computational custom architectures, based on Convolutional Neural Networks, which can serve as high-accuracy binary classifiers for colorectal cancer screening using histopathological images. For this purpose, we carry out an optimization process to obtain the best performance model in terms of effectiveness as a classifier and computational cost by reducing the number of parameters. Subsequently, we compare the results obtained with previous work in the same field. Cross-validation reveals a high robustness of the models as classifiers, yielding superior accuracy outcomes of 99.4 ± 0.58% and 93.2 ± 1.46% for the lighter model. The classifiers achieved an accuracy exceeding 99% on the test subset using low-resolution images and a significantly reduced layer count, with images sized at 11% of those used in previous studies. Consequently, we estimate a projected reduction of up to 50% in computational costs compared to the most lightweight model proposed in the existing literature.
Advanced Primary Frequency Regulation Optimization in Wind Storage Systems with DC Integration Using Double Deep Q-Networks
Authors: Liu Xiaojiang , Zou Peng , You Jin , Wang Yuhong , Wu Jiabao , Zheng Zongsheng , Gao Shilin , Hao Wei
Published: June 2024

With the gradual increase in wind power installation capacity, the proportion of traditional synchronous generators driven by fossil fuel is gradually declining. Due to the fact that wind turbines are connected to the grid through power electronic converters, which decouple rotor speeds from the system frequency and reduce system inertia levels, inadequate inertia levels can pose a threat to frequency stability when disturbances occur. To address this issue, this paper proposes a frequency regulation optimization strategy for the direct current (DC) transmission of a wind storage system. This strategy incorporates virtual inertia control and virtual droop control to adjust wind power output based on frequency deviation and rate of change. Fuzzy logic control is employed for energy storage, adaptively adjusting active power based on frequency deviation and the rate of change. Additionally, under the context of multi-DC transmission in renewable energy systems, an optimization strategy for proportion and integration (PI) parameters of the frequency limit controller (FLC) is proposed. Considering frequency deviation and DC regulation power simultaneously, the double deep Q-network (DDQN) algorithm is adopted in the simulation model to attain the optimal parameters of FLC. Simulation results conducted using MATLAB/Simulink 2022a indicate that this strategy increases the lowest frequency by 0.28 Hz and decreases the response time by 1.04 s compared with the non-optimized strategy.
Dispatch Optimization Scheme for High Renewable Energy Penetration Using an Artificial Intelligence Model
Authors: Alharbi Mahmood , Altarjami Ibrahim
Published: June 2024

The scientific community widely recognizes that the broad use of renewable energy sources in clean energy systems will become a substantial and common trend in the next decades. The most urgent matter that has to be addressed is how to enhance the amount of renewable energy integration into the system while ensuring system stability in the presence of sudden fluctuations in generation and system faults. This study introduces a methodology that may be applied to any power system to optimize the level of renewable energy sources (RESs) integration. The methodology relies on using a trilayered neural network (TNN), which is a model utilized in the field of artificial intelligence. In order to apply and analyze the outcomes of the proposed optimization technique, the Kundur power system is employed as a case study. The objective of this methodology is to enhance the operation dispatches of a power system to attain a higher level of renewable energy output, specifically photovoltaic (PV) generation, while maintaining the stability of the system. This would enhance the stakeholders’ or utility providers’ capacity to make well-informed judgments on operation dispatch processes. The findings of this study suggest that it is generally recommended to raise the dispatchable power values for the generators in the loading region and lower the dispatchable power values for the generators in the generating area.
Progress in Corrosion Research on Alternative Liquid Fuels
Authors: Jin Chao , Xu Teng , Hu Jingjing , Ding Chenyun , Geng Zhenlong , Li Xiaodan , Dong Juntong , Liu Haifeng
Published: June 2024

In the current context of fossil energy depletion and the requirement for low carbon emissions, the efficient use of energy and a diversified energy mix have become increasingly important. The use of cleaner and low-carbon alternative fuels is rapidly growing. However, corrosion remains a key issue limiting the large-scale application of alternative fuels. This paper describes the corrosion characteristics of different alternative fuels. Also, the mechanisms of fuel corrosion, corrosion measurement methods, and the future of corrosion inhibitor applications are discussed. Corrosion causes changes in material weight and surface morphology and generates electrical signals as it progresses. Although there are well-established methods to characterize corrosion by recognizing these changes, there is still a need to identify a universal standard signal for their detailed description. For the foreseeable future, corrosion in fuels will continue to be mitigated by the addition of corrosion inhibitors. The research on corrosion inhibitors focuses on green corrosion inhibitors and multifunctional corrosion inhibitors. However, further analysis is needed to understand the active ingredients in green corrosion inhibitors, and the mechanism of corrosion inhibition for different types of corrosion inhibitors needs further research.
Research on a Plan of Free Cooling Operation Control for the Efficiency Improvement of a Water-Side Economizer
Authors: Kim Yu-Jin , Kim Kwang-Hee , Ha Ju-Wan , Song Young-Hak
Published: June 2024

The energy reduction in chillers has been considered an important factor in the energy efficiency improvements of cooling systems, and water-side free cooling is regarded as the key of chiller free cooling technology. Therefore, this research aims to develop a control methodology for the extension of the free cooling operation time in order to improve the efficiency of water cooling-type chillers based on a WSE (water-side economizer) system for a data center and review the proper control conditions through an energy usage analysis of the entire system. The suggested methodology is an increase in the chilled water supply and return temperature according to the increase in the CARH (Computer Room Air Handler) fan air flow and a decrease in the chilled water flow. A case study was conducted according to the application of control through an EnergyPlus simulation. The results of the simulation show that energy usage was reduced by 8.1% under 120% CRAH fan capacity and 100% chilled water flow conditions. When applying the control plan, the free cooling period was extended according to the increased CRAH fan capacity and decreased chilled water flow. However, the increase in the CRAH fan energy must be considered. Also, in the case of a reduction in the chilled water flow, it is necessary to consider a point that can guarantee the cooling treatment heat rate in the heat exchanger.
Analysis of Energy Security Based on Level of Alignment with the Goals of Agenda 2030
Authors: Czerwińska Karolina , Pacana Andrzej
Published: June 2024

In an era of a significant pace of economic, technological, and social development, an uninterrupted energy supply is one of the most important variables determining a country’s economic sovereignty, position in international relations, and quality of life. The aim of this study was to develop a method of multifaceted comparative analysis of energy security of neighboring countries (Poland and Slovakia) based on the level of fulfillment of selected goals of Agenda 2030 and related tasks. The analysis of energy security, due to its multifaceted nature, requires an examination of Goal 7 (clean and accessible energy) and the corresponding tasks associated with Goals 8, 9, and 13 of Agenda 2030. The research objective involved the analysis of energy dependence, electricity, diversification of gas supply, terminals and gas storage facilities, and clean energy. The countries studied are in the midst of achieving the goals of Agenda 2030, and the current rate of growth and relevance of the energy measures taken are promising. Further actions are recommended in the areas of diversification of generation capacity, appropriate levels of investment, availability of infrastructure and expertise, increasing the share of renewable energy sources (RES) and natural gas, and increasing efficiency in electricity consumption.
Example of Using Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm with Nelder–Mead Method for Flow Improvement in Axial Last Stage of Gas–Steam Turbine
Authors: Ziółkowski Paweł , Witanowski Łukasz , Głuch Stanisław , Klonowicz Piotr , Feidt Michel , Koulali Aimad
Published: June 2024

This article focuses principally on the comparison baseline and the optimized flow efficiency of the final stage of an axial turbine operating on a gas–steam mixture by applying a hybrid Nelder–Mead and the particle swarm optimization method. Optimization algorithms are combined with CFD calculations to determine the flowpaths and thermodynamic parameters. The working fluid in this study is a mixture of steam and gas produced in a wet combustion chamber, therefore the new turbine type is currently undergoing theoretical research. The purpose of this work is to redesign and examine the last stage of the gas–steam turbine’s flow characteristics. Among the optimized variables, there are parameters characterizing the shape of the endwall contours within the rotor domain. The values of the maximized objective function, which is the isentropic efficiency of the turbine stage, are found from the 3D RANS computation of the flowpath geometry changing during the improvement scheme. The optimization process allows the stage efficiency to be increased by almost 4 percentage points. To achieve high-quality results, a mesh of over 20 million elements is used, where the percentage error in efficiency between the previous and current mesh sizes drops below 0.05%.
Applied Chemical Ecology of Forest Insects
Authors: Allison Jeremy D. , Zhang Qing-He
Published: June 2024

Forests provide diverse and complex services, including contributing directly to the livelihood of more than 1.5 billion people, providing habitat to ca. 80% of terrestrial species and combating climate change. With the continued growth of human populations, the significance of the ecosystem services provided by forests will increase.
Tree-Level Climate Sensitivity Reveals Size Effects and Impending Growth Decline in Silver Fir Affected by Dieback
Authors: Crespo-Antia Juan Pablo , González de Andrés Ester , Gazol Antonio , Camarero Jesús Julio , Linares Juan Carlos
Published: June 2024

Worldwide studies have related recent forest decline and mortality events to warmer temperatures and droughts, as well as pointing out a greater vulnerability to climate changes in larger trees. Previous research performed on silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) suggest an increasing decline and mortality, mainly related to rising water shortages. Here, we investigate these die-off events in two silver fir populations at the rear edge of the species in the western Pyrenees. We used dendrochronology to investigate tree age, size (diameter) and individual climate sensitivity (climate–growth relationships) as predisposing factors related to growth patterns and drought resilience indexes in canopy-level declining and non-declining trees. The regional climate was also investigated, including temperature trends, quantile regression in precipitation and frequency of extreme events in drought indexes (SPEI). The regional climate was characterized by an increase in mean temperatures and a higher frequency of extreme drought events in recent decades, without a decrease in total precipitation. Larger trees were more sensitive to temperature and prone to decline. Declining trees presented decreasing growth trends years ago, providing a robust predisposing trait. Both populations were not different in mean growth, despite the contrasting local climate and management legacies, although we identified a higher resilience to drought in the eastmost stand. A significant regression was found between growth trends and climate sensitivity, supporting that declining trees are more sensitive to warmer temperatures and drought. Hence, the results support a contrasting climate sensitivity related to tree size (but not to tree age), suggesting impending decline and mortality in large trees with higher temperature sensitivity (negative temperature–growth correlations). Nonetheless, contributing factors, such as the legacy of previous logging, should also be accounted for.
Effects of Anthropogenic Disturbance on the Structure, Competition, and Succession of Abies ziyuanensis Communities
Authors: Zhang Huacong , Li Yueqiao , Xu Keqin , Yu Longhua , He Ping , Zeng Suping , Song Yunxia , Liu Ren , Sun Yun
Published: June 2024

Attention to habitat dynamics in subtropical mid-mountain forest plant communities containing endangered vegetation is critical for understanding the responses of ecosystems to global climate change and for their effective conservation. This study examines the species composition, structure, and interspecies competition within endemic and endangered Abies ziyuanensis (Abies ziyuanensis L.K.Fu and S.L.Mo) communities in China, comparing undisturbed and anthropogenically disturbed conditions. The survey recorded a total of 71 plant species across 39 families and 60 genera. PERMANOVA analysis highlighted significant disparities in species composition between the two forest community conditions. Communities impacted by anthropogenic disturbances showed a higher diversity of shrub and herbaceous species compared to those that were undisturbed, coupled with a significant increase in the number of Abies ziyuanensis seedlings, suggesting a greater potential for self-renewal. Nonetheless, the distribution of diameter class structures in these two community conditions indicates a declining trend in population numbers. In undisturbed Abies ziyuanensis communities, the Weighted Hegyi Competition Index (WCI) for Abies ziyuanensis was 6.04, below the average WCI of 12.24 for all trees within these communities. In contrast, within communities affected by anthropogenic disturbances, the WCI for Abies ziyuanensis reached 7.76, higher than the average WCI of 7.43 for all trees, indicating that Abies ziyuanensis in disturbed communities face heightened competitive pressure compared to undisturbed settings. These findings underscore that previous anthropogenic disturbances have altered the community composition, competition dynamics, growth environment, and succession trends of Abies ziyuanensis communities. While these disturbances promote the regeneration of Abies ziyuanensis, they also reduce its current dominance as a target species.
Rethinking Productivity Evaluation in Precision Forestry through Dominant Height and Site Index Measurements Using Aerial Laser Scanning LiDAR Data
Authors: Raigosa-García Iván , Rathbun Leah C. , Cook Rachel L. , Baker Justin S. , Corrao Mark V. , Sumnall Matthew J.
Published: June 2024

Optimizing forest plantation management has become imperative due to increasing forest product demand, higher fertilization and management costs, declining land availability, increased competition for land use, and the growing demands for carbon sequestration. Precision forestry refers to the ability to use data acquired with technology to support the forest management decision-making process. LiDAR can be used to assess forest metrics such as tree height, topographical position, soil surface attributes, and their combined effects on individual tree growth. LiDAR opens the door to precision silviculture applied at the tree level and can inform precise treatments such as fertilization, thinning, and herbicide application for individual trees. This study uses ALS LiDAR and other ancillary data to assess the effect of scale (i.e., stand, soil type, and microtopography) on dominant height and site index measures within loblolly pine plantations across the southeastern United States. This study shows differences in dominant height and site index across soil types, with even greater differences observed when the interactions of microtopography were considered. These results highlight how precision forestry may provide a unique opportunity for assessing soil and microtopographic information to optimize resource allocation and forest management at an individual tree scale in a scarce higher-priced fertilizer scenario.
Evaluation of the Functional Connectivity between the Mangomarca Fog Oasis and the Adjacent Urban Area Using Landscape Graphs
Authors: Amaya Pedro , Vega Violeta , Esenarro Doris , Cuya Oscar , Raymundo Vanessa
Published: June 2024

The present research aimed to measure the degree of connectivity and create a map of the ecological connectivity that highlights the real or potential presence of green, ecological, or ecotourism circuits integrating the green infrastructure of San Juan de Lurigancho and the Mangomarca hills using graph theory applications implemented in the Graphab 2.8 software. Mangomarca and Huiracocha Park were selected for this study. In terms of the methodology, a simple approach based on landscape metrics, which are easy to interpret, was proposed to measure the connectivity of the mosaic of patches in the designated area. The IndiFrag software was used to obtain landscape metrics for the structural connectivity analysis. The Graphab software was employed for the functional connectivity analysis. Both tools proved effective in identifying vegetation gaps or the intensity of the greenery. Landsat 8 images from 8 July 2021 and 4 October 2021 were selected for this research due to the lower amount of cloud cover. Concerning the structural connectivity, the TMCl (patch size), NobCl (number of patches), and PerimCl (perimeter) metrics were effective in distinguishing the mosaic of urban landscape patches from the hill landscape. These indices confirm that the urban landscape patches have a higher number of fragments but are smaller in size compared to the hill landscape. Regarding the functional connectivity, it is evident that the patches are connected at lower-cost distances, averaging 7 cost units (210 m) during the wet season and 23 cost units (410 m) during the less humid season. However, these distances are too extensive and do not form ecological corridors. A survey of the population’s perception of the maximum separation distances between patches of vegetation cover that could still be considered a green corridor was included. The results indicate that a third of the sample (36%) prefer to walk down a hallway with a maximum separation distance of 10 m, while almost two-thirds (68%) would prefer a maximum separation distance of 50 m. Therefore, city planning should consider actions to reduce these distances and enable ecological connectivity in the area. It is recommended to continue researching the functional connectivity and determining the green corridors in the city to establish monitoring guidelines for the ecological connectivity of the city.
The Growth and Non-Structural Carbohydrate Response Patterns of Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila) under Salt Stress with Different Intensities and Durations
Authors: Jiang Peipei , Yang Cheng , Zhang Xuejie , Tong Boqiang , Xie Xiaoman , Li Xianzhong , Fan Shoujin
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Soil salinity is one of the major abiotic stresses that limits plant growth and production. However, the response patterns of plant growth and carbon metabolism to salt stress are still unclear. (2) Methods: We measured the relative growth rate, non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) concentrations and pool size across organs, the leaf mass area (LMA), root-to-shoot ratio, midday leaf water potential (Ψmd), and photosynthetic characteristics of elm seedlings planted in the field under different salt stress intensities and durations. (3) Results: Salt stress can reduce the photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, and Ψmd and inhibit the growth of elm species. LMA increased with the degree and duration of salt stress, indicating an increase in leaf carbon investment to resist salt stress. The root-to-shoot ratio decreased under salt stress to reduce salt absorption by the roots. In the early stage of stress, the concentrations of starch and total NSCs in all organs increased to improve stress resistance and the survival of plants. In the late stage of stress, the concentration of NSCs in the root decreased, which could restrict root growth and water uptake. The relationships between NSC concentration and growth in different organs were contrasting. Meanwhile, the pool size of NSCs had a more significant impact on growth than their concentration. Moreover, the pool size of NSCs in below-ground organs is more closely related to growth than that of above-ground organs. (4) Conclusions: Our research elucidates the carbon allocation mechanism across organs under different salt stress intensities and durations, providing theoretical support for understanding the relationship between tree growth and carbon storage under salt stress.
Chemical and Microbial Differences of Root and Rhizosphere Soil among Different Provenances of Fokienia hodginsii
Authors: Liu Hao-Lan , Zhu Tengfei , Wen Xinyi , Zhao Qing , Chen Yao , Wang Yun-Zi , Li Jian , Su Shunde
Published: June 2024

Aims: Fokienia hodginsii is a threatened conifer tree species, known as the dominant nursery-grown species capable of colonizing the challenging woodland environments in southern China due to its strong root penetrating ability. The ecological phenotype of Fokienia hodginsii is not well documented during its breeding process, which limits the potential planting area and its ecological function. This study aims to understand how Fokienia hodginsii associates with microbes to conduct its key ecological function and provide a theoretical basis for further improving the forest nursery management of Fokienia hodginsii. Methods: This study explored the ecological traits of 11 main Fokienia hodginsii provenances in a homogeneous garden experiment by analyzing their nutrient utilization strategies and associated microbial features in the rhizosphere soil and roots. Results: The study found that the paramount difference in the rhizosphere soil among provenances is in Ca and Fe content. Some microbial communities, namely Crenarchaeota, Verrucomicrobiota, and Desulfobacterota, were positively correlated with the amounts of the soil nutrient elements, whereas Abditibacteriota and Dependentiae were negatively correlated. The abundance of N- and Fe-related bacteria in the Fu Jian Chang Ting (FJCT) provenance was significantly higher than that in other provenances, while the C-, P-, K-, and Mg-related fungal communities, respectively, had higher abundances in the FJCT, Fu Jian Long Yan (FJLY), Fu Jian Gu Tian (FJGT), and Fu Jian Xian You (FJXY) provenances than the others. The impacts of the Gui Zhou Li Ping (GZLP), Hu Nan Dao Xian (HNDX), Jiang Xi Shang Yao (JXSY), and Guang Dong Shi Xing (GDSX) provenances on the rhizosphere soil are similar, but the differences in nutrient utilization arise from the plant itself. Conversely, the root nutrient contents of the FJCT, Fu Jian You Xi (FJYX), Fu Jian An Xi (FJAX), FJLY, Fu Jian De Hua (FJDH), FJGT, and FJXY provenances are highly correlated with soil nutrient features. Conclusions: For the native provenances, their economic traits are better than the exotic provenances. The native provenances are more sensitive to local soil conditions, so they should benefit more from human interventions, rendering them more suitable for artificial cultivation. The growth of the exotic provenances is less affected by the soil environment, making them better suited for the ecological transformation of forest stands and soil improvement.
Evaluating the Ecological Restoration Effectiveness of Poverty Alleviation Relocation through Carbon Storage Analysis: Insights from Karst Regions
Authors: Feng Qing , Zhou Zhongfa , Chen Quan , Zhu Changli , Zhang Lu
Published: June 2024

The Poverty Alleviation Relocation (PAR) policy is widely regarded as an effective approach for breaking the cycle of ecological vulnerability and poverty. However, quantitative research on the ecological restoration effectiveness of PAR lacks sufficient experimental data support. This study focuses on the karst region and employs analysis methods such as volume-derived biomass and correlation analysis to evaluate the impact of PAR on carbon storage in forest ecosystems using on-site experimental data. The objective is to enhance and broaden the research framework for assessing PAR’s ecological restoration effectiveness. The findings reveal that, compared to the pre-PAR implementation period in 2015, the study area experienced an 8.16% increase in forest land area and a 6.57% increase in carbon storage after six years of PAR implementation in 2021. Following PAR implementation, carbon storage in the stone desertification area surged by 14.31%, indicating a significant correlation between PAR households and carbon storage variables. In the karst area, carbon storage increased by 4.34%, exhibiting a significant correlation between the two variables. Conversely, in the non-karst area, carbon storage rose by 5.01%, but no significant correlation was observed between the variables. Furthermore, post-PAR implementation, there is a discernible trend of stronger carbon storage enhancement with increasing distance from the relocated PAR households.
Enhancing Efficiency and Security in Unbalanced PSI-CA Protocols through Cloud Computing and Homomorphic Encryption in Mobile Networks
Authors: Tan Wuzheng , Du Shenglong , Weng Jian
Published: June 2024

Private Set Intersection Cardinality (PSI-CA) is a cryptographic method in secure multi-party computation that allows entities to identify the cardinality of the intersection without revealing their private data. Traditional approaches assume similar-sized datasets and equal computational power, overlooking practical imbalances. In real-world applications, dataset sizes and computational capacities often vary, particularly in Internet of Things and mobile scenarios where device limitations restrict computational types. Traditional PSI-CA protocols are inefficient here, as computational and communication complexities correlate with the size of larger datasets. Thus, adapting PSI-CA protocols to these imbalances is crucial. This paper explores unbalanced scenarios where one party (the receiver) has a relatively small dataset and limited computational power, while the other party (the sender) has a large amount of data and strong computational capabilities.This paper, based on the concept of commutative encryption, introduces Cuckoo filter, cloud computing technology, and homomorphic encryption, among other technologies, to construct three novel solutions for unbalanced Private Set Intersection Cardinality (PSI-CA): an unbalanced PSI-CA protocol based on Cuckoo filter, an unbalanced PSI-CA protocol based on single-cloud assistance, and an unbalanced PSI-CA protocol based on dual-cloud assistance. Depending on performance and security requirements, different protocols can be employed for various applications.
Epigenetic and Genomic Hallmarks of PARP-Inhibitor Resistance in Ovarian Cancer Patients
Authors: Senturk Kirmizitas Tugce , van den Berg Caroline , Boers Ruben , Helmijr Jean , Makrodimitris Stavros , Dag Hamit Harun , Kerkhofs Marijn , Beaufort Corine , Kraan Jaco , van IJcken Wilfred F. J. , Gribnau Joost , Garkhail Pakriti , Boer Gatske Nieuwenhuyzen-de , Roes Eva-Maria , van Beekhuizen Heleen , Gunel Tuba , Wilting Saskia , Martens John , Jansen Maurice , Boere Ingrid
Published: June 2024

Background: Patients with advanced-stage epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) receive treatment with a poly-ADP ribose-polymerase (PARP) inhibitor (PARPi) as maintenance therapy after surgery and chemotherapy. Unfortunately, many patients experience disease progression because of acquired therapy resistance. This study aims to characterize epigenetic and genomic changes in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) associated with PARPi resistance. Materials and Methods: Blood was taken from 31 EOC patients receiving PARPi therapy before treatment and at disease progression during/after treatment. Resistance was defined as disease progression within 6 months after starting PARPi and was seen in fifteen patients, while sixteen patients responded for 6 to 42 months. Blood cfDNA was evaluated via Modified Fast Aneuploidy Screening Test-Sequencing System (mFast-SeqS to detect aneuploidy, via Methylated DNA Sequencing (MeD-seq) to find differentially methylated regions (DMRs), and via shallow whole-genome and -exome sequencing (shWGS, exome-seq) to define tumor fractions and mutational signatures. Results: Aneuploid cfDNA was undetectable pre-treatment but observed in six patients post-treatment, in five resistant and one responding patient. Post-treatment ichorCNA analyses demonstrated in shWGS and exome-seq higher median tumor fractions in resistant (7% and 9%) than in sensitive patients (7% and 5%). SigMiner analyses detected predominantly mutational signatures linked to mismatch repair and chemotherapy. DeSeq2 analyses of MeD-seq data revealed three methylation signatures and more tumor-specific DMRs in resistant than in responding patients in both pre- and post-treatment samples (274 vs. 30 DMRs, 190 vs. 57 DMRs, Χ2-test p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our genome-wide Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) analyses in PARPi-resistant patients identified epigenetic differences in blood before treatment, whereas genomic alterations were more frequently observed after progression. The epigenetic differences at baseline are especially interesting for further exploration as putative predictive biomarkers for PARPi resistance.
Conservative Evaluation of Fault Displacement Hazard for a Nuclear Site in Case of Insufficient Data on the Fault Activity
Authors: Katona Tamás János
Published: June 2024

The safety regulations require periodic reviews of the site hazards when operating nuclear power plants. If any indications of Quaternary fault activity are revealed, the fault displacement hazard should be evaluated. Signs of paleo-liquefaction were recently found at the nuclear site of Paks, Hungary, indicating the late-Pleistocene activity of the fault crossing the site. Except for this, there are no historical or instrumental records of earthquakes at the fault, and the micro-seismic and GPS monitoring results do not indicate activity either. Despite a thorough site investigation of over 40 years, the indications are uncertain and insufficient for defining the fault activity, as required for a probabilistic fault displacement hazard analysis. This paper develops and applies a simplified conservative hazard evaluation method of average fault displacement that allows an in-time decision regarding the safety relevance of the hazard. Geometrical simplification is possible since the fault crosses the site. The fault’s activity is evaluated using magnitude–frequency relations of the area sources developed for probabilistic seismic hazard analysis. The total probability theorem is applied, and different strike-slip fault scaling relations are considered while calculating the probability of non-zero surface displacement, fault rupture length, and average displacement. The fault displacement hazard curve is defined and compared with earlier studies for the same site. Since the late recognition of active faults cannot be excluded at several operating plant sites, the methodology can be applied in the future beyond a single application for the Paks site in Hungary.