bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Muraine Sutures and Excimer Laser-Assisted Penetrating Keratoplasty for Acute Keratoconus
Authors: Burghardt Marie Elisabeth , Heinzelmann Joana , Stein Marlene , Viestenz Anja , Viestenz Arne
Published: June 2024

Background: Acute keratoconus (acute KC), which affects approximately 1.6–2.8% of keratoconus (KC) patients, is a pathological condition of the cornea characterized by stromal edema due to entry of aqueous humor through a tear in Descemet’s membrane. Methods: We present a novel combination of surgical procedures that allows swifter visual recovery in a consecutive, retrospective case series. The new surgical procedure for acute KC consists of a combination of Muraine corneal sutures to smooth the corneal curvature and Excimer laser-assisted penetrating keratoplasty and was performed in six acute KC patients from 2019 to 2022 at the Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg (UMH), Germany. We monitored data on preoperative status, operative details, intraoperative and postoperative complications and visual outcomes were analyzed. Results: The mean age was 41.5 ± 13.5 years (3 OD, 3 OS). Neurodermatitis was present in 3 patients (50%). All patients received significant visual benefits from the procedure. Preoperative BCVA was hand motion (logMAR 3.0) in all patients; postoperatively, BCVA improved significantly logMAR 0.03 ± 0.09 [range: 0.2–0.4; p < 0.001, FUP 20+/−10 months). Visual acuity remained stable throughout the roughly biannual follow-ups. One patient developed endothelial graft rejection after 2 years. During the last examination, all eyes had clear grafts and stable curvatures, K1 and K2 being 42.43 ± 4.17 D and 44.95 ± 4.07 D, respectively, and mean corneal astigmatism was 2.61 ± 1.74 D. The thinnest corneal thickness was 519 ± 31 µm. A graft size of 8.0 × 8.1 mm was the most beneficial. Conclusions: in patients with acute KC and hydrops, a penetrating keratoplasty with Muraine corneal sutures is successful in terms of graft clarity and visual outcome. Combining the procedures allows quicker visual recovery. Patients with a history of neurodermatitis should have preoperative and postoperative dermatologic treatment and close follow-up for possible complications.
Clinical Updates and Perspectives on Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Authors: Cantone Mariagiovanna
Published: June 2024

Since its introduction nearly 30 years ago, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has increasingly been used to both provide novel insights into the pathophysiology of the neural circuitry that underlies neurological and psychiatric diseases and to manipulate neural activities in a non-invasive manner [...]
Effects of Combined Low-Dose Spironolactone Plus Vitamin E versus Vitamin E Monotherapy on Lipidomic Profile in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Post Hoc Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Semertzidis Anastasios , Mouskeftara Thomai , Gika Helen , Pousinis Petros , Makedou Kali , Goulas Antonis , Kountouras Jannis , Polyzos Stergios A.
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives: Lipid dysmetabolism seems to contribute to the development and progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Our aim was to compare serum lipidomic profile between patients with NAFLD having received monotherapy with vitamin E (400 IU/d) and those having received combination therapy with vitamin E (400 IU/d) and low-dose spironolactone (25 mg/d) for 52 weeks. Methods: This was a post hoc study of a randomized controlled trial (NCT01147523). Serum lipidomic analysis was performed in vitamin E monotherapy group (n = 15) and spironolactone plus vitamin E combination therapy group (n = 12). We employed an untargeted liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry lipid profiling approach in positive and negative ionization mode. Results: Univariate analysis revealed 36 lipid molecules statistically different between groups in positive mode and seven molecules in negative mode. Multivariate analysis in negative mode identified six lipid molecules that remained robustly different between groups. After adjustment for potential confounders, including gender, omega-3 supplementation, leptin concentration and homeostasis model assessment—insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), four lipid molecules remained significant between groups: FA 20:5, SM 34:2;O2, SM 42:3;O2 and CE 22:6, all being higher in the combination treatment group. Conclusions: The combination of spironolactone with vitamin E led to higher circulating levels of four lipid molecules than vitamin E monotherapy, after adjustment for potential confounders. Owing to very limited relevant data, we could not support that these changes in lipid molecules may be beneficial or not for the progression of NAFLD. Thus, mechanistic studies are warranted to clarify the potential clinical significance of these findings.
No Significant Differences between Bisphosphonates and Placebo for the Treatment of Bone Marrow Lesions of the Knee: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Anzillotti Giuseppe , Öttl Felix C. , Franceschi Carlotta , Conte Pietro , Bertolino Enrico Maria , Lipina Marina , Lychagin Alexey , Kon Elizaveta , Di Matteo Berardo
Published: June 2024

Objectives: The purpose of the present systematic review and meta-analysis is to summarize the current evidence on the role of bisphosphonates in the treatment of knee bone marrow lesions (BMLs), to understand whether they are truly effective in improving symptoms and restoring the subchondral bone status at imaging evaluation. Methods: A literature search was carried out on PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Potential risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and the ROBINS-I tool for non-randomized studies. Results: A total of 15 studies were included in the present systematic review and meta-analysis. Seven studies were RCTs, two were prospective cohort studies, three were retrospective, and three were case series. Our meta-analysis revealed that bisphosphonates did not significantly improve clinical scores or reduce BML size compared to placebo. Accordingly, the rate of adverse events was also non-significantly higher among bisphosphonate users versus placebo users. Conclusions: The main finding of the present meta-analysis and systematic review is that bisphosphonates show neither significant benefits nor significant adverse events when compared to placebo in the treatment of BMLs of the knee. Level of Evidence: Level IV systematic review of level II–III–IV studies. Level I meta-analysis of level I studies.
Unexpected Genetic Twists in Patients with Cardiac Devices
Authors: Goanta Emilia-Violeta , Vacarescu Cristina , Tartea Georgica , Ungureanu Adrian , Militaru Sebastian , Muraretu Alexandra , Faur-Grigori Adelina-Andreea , Petrescu Lucian , Vătăsescu Radu , Cozma Dragos
Published: June 2024

Objective: To assess the frequency and types of genetic mutations in patients with arrhythmias who underwent cardiac device implantation. Methods: Retrospective observational study, including 38 patients with different arrhythmias and cardiac arrest as a first cardiac event. Treatment modalities encompass pacemakers, transvenous defibrillators, loop recorders, subcutaneous defibrillators, and cardiac resynchronization therapy. All patients underwent genetic testing, using commercially available panels (106–174 genes). Outcome measures include mortality, arrhythmia recurrence, and device-related complications. Results: Clinical parameters revealed a family history of sudden cardiac death in 19 patients (50%), who were predominantly male (58%) and had a mean age of 44.5 years and a mean left ventricle ejection fraction of 40.3%. Genetic testing identified mutations in various genes, predominantly TMEM43 (11%). In two patients (3%) with arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, complete subcutaneous defibrillator extraction with de novo transvenous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation was needed. The absence of multiple associations among severe gene mutations was crucial for cardiac resynchronization therapy response. Mortality in this group was around 3% in titin dilated cardiomyopathy patients. Conclusions: Integration of genetic testing into the decision-making process for patients with electronic devices represents a paradigm shift in personalized medicine. By identifying genetic markers associated with arrhythmia susceptibility, heart failure etiology, and cardiac resynchronization therapy response, clinicians can tailor device choices to optimize patient outcomes.
Effect of Copper Doping in Borate Bioactive Glass on Bacterial Colonization Prevention—An Insight Study on Protein/Carbohydrate Leakage for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Sankaralingam Bharath , Kaliaraj Gobi Saravanan , Rameshbabu Isha , Rajendran Padmapriya , Amirtharaj Mosas Kamalan Kirubaharan
Published: June 2024

Researchers have extensively studied borate bioactive glass (BBG) for bone regeneration and wound healing applications. In the current study, 13-93B3 (54.6% B2O3, 22.1% CaO, 7.9% K2O, 7.7% MgO, 6.0% Na2O, and 1.7% P2O5) was synthesized using a sol–gel technique and doped with different molar concentrations of Cu (0.01, 0.05, and 0.25 M) into BBG for possible biomedical applications. Then, the antibacterial activity was tested against E. coli and S. aureus. The maximum zone of inhibition against S. aureus was achieved at 100 μg/mL of 0.25 M Cu-doped BBG. At 50 μg/mL of 0.25 molar copper concentration, E. coli showed a significant reduction in colony-forming units. Hydroxyl radical production, influenced by the BBG powder, was most effective against S. aureus, followed by E. coli. Protein leakage studies demonstrated significant leakage after treatment with BBG powder, demonstrating a strong effect on bacterial strains. This shows a change in protein synthesis, which is essential for central metabolism and gene transcription, affecting proteins in the periplasm and inner and outer membranes. Furthermore, carbohydrate leakage studies showed that BBG is effective against all three categories of cellular carbohydrate, namely membrane-bound, transmembrane, and intracellular carbs. This study focuses on the diverse antibacterial processes of Cu-doped BBG, which has emerged as a promising contender for biological applications that require strong antibacterial characteristics.
New Mini Neutron Tubes with Multiple Applications
Authors: Leung Ka-Ngo
Published: June 2024

Recent experimental investigations have demonstrated that a substantial amount of H−/D− ions can be formed by thermal desorption processes. Based on these new findings, new mini axial and coaxial-type neutron tubes have been developed for the production of high or low-energy neutrons via the d-d, d-10B, d-7Li or p-7Li nuclear reactions. By operating these mini neutron tubes with a high frequency AC high-voltage supply, short pulses of high intensity neutron beams can be generated. Multiple applications, such as carbon and well logging, neutron imaging, cancer therapy, medical isotope production, fission reactor start-up, fusion reactor material evaluation, homeland security and space exploration can be performed with the subcompact neutron generator system. It is shown that the performance of these new mini neutron tubes can exceed those of the conventional plasma-based neutron sources.
Discovering the Radio and Music Preferences of Generation Z: An Empirical Greek Case from and through the Internet
Authors: Nicolaou Constantinos , Matsiola Maria , Dimoulas Charalampos A. , Kalliris George
Published: June 2024

Generation Z’s members are considered to have a strong preference for streaming and on-demand media only. This article is dedicated to Generation Z and comes to investigate the triptych of attitudes, opinions, and behaviors regarding radio and music preferences of its members in Greece through an Internet survey. The research data were collected through a web-based questionnaire, while for the analysis, descriptive and inductive statistics were applied from and through Internet applications and services. The research results and findings confirm previous empirical studies and research regarding the radio, the genealogical characteristics, habits, and ethos of Generation Z as well as that Generation Z can also be characterized as a sound generation. Finally, these research results and findings are considered encouraging and could be leveraged primarily by the radio media ecosystem with the aim of reorganizing or decentralizing the radio for its future form.
Effects of Electro-Muscle Stimulation Exercise Combined with Mat Pilates on Pain, Anxiety, and Strength in Sedentary Females with Fibromyalgia: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Eseoğlu İsmail , Yılmaz Ali , Anıl Berna , Korkmaz Esra , Akdemir Enes , Yılmaz Coşkun , Kehribar Lokman , Aydın Nur , Ermiş Egemen , Yoldaş Burak , İmamoğlu Osman
Published: June 2024

Background and Objectives: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) is a chronic pain disorder that is ranked as one of the four most common rheumatological diseases in the world. This study aims to investigate the effects of an eight-week mat Pilates and electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) with combined mat Pilates exercises on pain, depression, anxiety, and strength in sedentary women. Methods: This study is a single-blind randomized controlled trial. A total of 30 sedentary female patients (Pilates (n = 15), EMS (n = 15)) diagnosed with FM were included in the study. The patients were subjected to Beck Depression (BDIs) and Anxiety Inventories (BAIs); a Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ); five different Single-Leg Hop Tests (SLHTs); modified push-up (MPU), Handgrip Strength (HGS), Deep Squat (DSQ), V-Sit Flexor, bent-arm hang (BA), sit-up and Biering-Sørensen tests; and anthropometric tests before and after the 8-week exercise program. Results: The eight weeks of mat Pilates exercises combined with mat Pilates and EMS revealed significant results (p < 0.05) in anthropometric data (abdomen, lower abdomen, hips) (p < 0.05) except for the results of chest circumference measurements (p > 0.05). In addition, there were statistically significant positive results in BDIs, BAIs, FIQs, lower extremity (all SLHTs and DSQ), upper extremity (MPU, HGS, BA), and core (V-SIT, sit-up, Biering-Sørensen test) strength test findings (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Combining the mat Pilates exercises with EMS is an effective and reliable method to improve the pain, anxiety, depression, and strength of female patients diagnosed with FM.
The Impact of Land Use on Water Resources in the Gulf Cooperation Council Region
Authors: Helal Basant , Ali Maram , Ali Tarig , Odeleye Idowu Peter , Mortula Maruf , Gawai Rahul
Published: June 2024

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries experience a harsh environment with low precipitation and high evaporation rates. This presents a significant challenge of water scarcity and water quality degradation which is exacerbated by land use practices. Agriculture, urbanization, and industrialization are impacting the management of water resources. This paper examines the state of water resources in the GCC countries and presents the impact of land use practices. A detailed analysis of the relationship between land use and groundwater is conducted with a focus on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), the Sultanate of Oman, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The results indicate a drop in agricultural activities, an increase in bare land and urban areas, depletion of groundwater, and water quality degradation. These changes were attributed to excessive agricultural and industrial uses, climate change, and rapid urbanization. The findings show the need for sustainable land use practices and water resources management. Further research addressing the impact of land use on water in Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain, and evaluating the effectiveness of policy, is essential.
Landslide Detection Using the Unsupervised Domain-Adaptive Image Segmentation Method
Authors: Chen Weisong , Chen Zhuo , Song Danqing , He Hongjin , Li Hao , Zhu Yuxian
Published: June 2024

After a landslide, swift and precise identification of the affected area is paramount for facilitating urgent rescue operations and damage assessments. This is particularly vital for land use planners and policymakers, enabling them to efficiently address hazard mitigation, the resettlement of those affected by the hazards, and to strategize land planning in the impacted regions. Despite the importance, conventional methods of monitoring landslides often fall short due to their restricted scope and the challenges associated with data acquisition. This study proposes a landslide detection method based on unsupervised multisource and target domain adaptive image segmentation (LUDAS) that is capable of achieving robust and generalized landslide mapping across multiple sources and target domains. Specifically, LUDAS consists of two phases. In the first phase, we introduce an unsupervised interdomain translation network to align the styles of multiple source domains to multiple target domains, generating pseudotarget domain data. Our interdomain translation network is capable of style transfer between any two domains. Through careful design of the network structure and loss functions, we ensure effective style transfer while preserving the content structure of the source domain images. In the second phase, the landslide segmentation model is trained in a supervised manner using annotated data from multiple source domains and multiple pseudotarget domains, resulting in a model with strong generalization capabilities that can adapt to multiple source and target domains. Finally, through extensive qualitative and quantitative analysis experiments, our study confirms that the proposed domain-adaptive segmentation model not only achieves exceptional landslide segmentation performance across multiple target domains but also, due to its good generalizability and transferability, has great potential for application in the emergency response to landslide. This capability can provide strong support for post-disaster emergency rescue, disaster assessment, and land planning in areas with scarce data.
Composite Fingerprint Analysis of Sediment Sources in a Watershed Disturbed by Road Construction in Southeastern Tibet
Authors: Li Xin , Zhu Baicheng , Cao Longxi , Li Rui , Bai Chunlian , Wang Xinjun
Published: June 2024

Construction activities such as road projects modify original land uses and intensify soil erosion. Understanding the sediment contributed by these projects and its spatial variation throughout a watershed is critical in terms of guiding conservation. Based on field sampling in a road construction-disturbed watershed in southeastern Tibet, a composite fingerprint analysis was conducted to explore the contributions of different sources to the deposited sediment. The results showed that 10 factors, including Al2O3, TFe2O3, Sn, total phosphorous (TP), Cr, Na2O, Mn, W, SiO2, and Sr, formed an optimum composite fingerprint combination. The multivariate mixed model revealed that the average contribution percentage rates of sediment deposited along the main channel were as follows: bank material (52.52%) > roads (33.02%) > forest and grassland (14.46%). The contribution percentage of road-related sediment fluctuated from the beginning point along the channel and was significantly correlated with factors such as the flow length to the channel (R = −0.6), road segment slope (R = 0.66), and ratio of the road length to the channel length (R = 0.65). The flow length to the channel was the most important factor affecting the road sediment contribution and a decreasing logarithmic function was established to describe the effect. These results have clarified how road construction spatially affects sediment at the watershed scale. They can therefore offer guidance for evaluating the environmental impact of human activities and supporting efforts in watershed soil and water conservation.
Social Media Users’ Visual and Emotional Preferences of Internet-Famous Sites in Urban Riverfront Public Spaces: A Case Study in Changsha, China
Authors: Huang Yuanyuan , Zheng Bohong
Published: June 2024

With the increasing online exposure of urban public spaces, the new concept of “internet-famous sites” has emerged in China. Social media users are the main contributors to this new phenomenon. To fully understand social media users’ preferences in such kinds of public spaces, this article took 27 typical riverfront internet-famous sites (RIFSs) in Changsha City (China) as an example. Through social media platform selection, keyword research, text and image data extraction, visual and emotional symbol coding, and manual calculations of coding frequency, this study investigated social media users’ perception of RIFSs, especially on visual and emotional preferences. The online images and review comments were extracted from the popular Chinese social media platform “Xiaohongshu”. We found that (1) the popularity of each RIFS had a significant head effect and there were far more positive emotions than neutral and negative emotions in review comments. (2) RIFSs in Changsha were divided into five categories: commercial RIFSs, art exhibition RIFSs, historical and cultural RIFSs, ecological recreational RIFSs, and uncultivated RIFSs. Social media users had different visual focuses on each kind of RIFS. (3) Social media users provided specific reasons for their emotional preferences towards different types of RIFSs. This study can provide a new perspective on improving waterfront vitality and offer a targeted and attractive method for waterfront regeneration that is different from traditional methods.
Effect of Soil Moisture Content on Condensation Water in Typical Loess and Sandy Soil
Authors: Jin Cheng , Jia Zhifeng , Li Ge , Zhao Lingke , Ren Yuze
Published: June 2024

Many scholars have used samples of drying soil to observe the amount of soil condensation water, which may have exaggerated the amount of regional condensation water, as the soil water content in the natural state was not considered. To analyze the effect of soil moisture content on soil condensation in the natural state, the soil condensation volume in loess and sandy soil under different gravimetric moisture content conditions was measured in the autumn of 2022 and spring of 2023 using micro-lysimeters combined with the weighing method at the groundwater and environment site of Chang’an University, Guanzhong Basin, China. The results showed that the average daily condensation of loess under 0%, 3%, 7%, 11%, and 15% moisture content conditions was 0.34, 0.09, 0.01, −0.05, and −0.07 mm with the condensation days of 54, 40, 24, 21, and 16, respectively, and that of sandy soil was 0.21, −0.02, −0.28, −0.82, and −1.35 mm with condensation days of 54, 24, 2, 3, and 1, respectively. Under the same moisture content conditions, loess had more condensation and condensation days than sandy soil. Soil condensation water occurred mainly when the water content was less than 7%, and it was negatively correlated with soil water content. The quantity of soil condensation water was positively correlated with relative humidity and negatively correlated with air temperature–dew point differences. Relative humidity exceeding 60% and air temperature–dew point differences below 8 °C were more favorable for the formation of soil condensation water. This study provides a reference for the assessment of soil condensation in the natural state.
Habitat Protection in Urban–Rural Fringes through Coordinated Ecological Network Construction and Territorial Planning
Authors: Xie Yuting , Ying Jiaxin , Zou Jie , Li Ruohao , Zhang Haoxun , Shi Qie , Li Yonghua
Published: June 2024

Urban–rural fringes (URFs) are crucial for biodiversity yet often neglected in conservation efforts. This study refines URF habitat evaluation and integrates it into a coordinated ecological network (EN) and territorial planning framework. Using Qingpu District, Shanghai as a case study, we defined its URF via k-means clustering of night-time light data and applied the InVEST model, MSPA, Integrated Habitat Value, Patch Importance, and Betweenness Centrality analyses to identify high-value URF habitats. Furthermore, we constructed the EN using circuit theory and evaluated the impact of URF sources on network connectivity and construction costs. Our findings reveal that integrating URF sources increased connectivity indices significantly (α by 127.18%, β by 47.00%, and γ by 33.4%) and decreased construction costs (CR index by 0.07). Despite these benefits, under China’s “Three Zones and Three Lines” policy, 78.18% of Qingpu’s URF sources remain unprotected, with 56.78% at risk of conversion to construction land. Our study proposes a comprehensive evaluation system for URF habitats and strategic recommendations for their incorporation into regional ENs, thus informing policy making and planning for more inclusive ecological conservation.
Construction and Optimization Strategy of Ecological Security Pattern in County-Level Cities under Spatial and Temporal Variation of Ecosystem Services: Case Study of Mianzhu, China
Authors: Xiang Keming , Chen Liang , Li Wenyu , He Zhengwei
Published: June 2024

Climate change and human activities are seriously affecting the ecological level and economic development of county-level cities. Mianzhu City is a typical county-level city located within the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle and the Yangtze River Economic Belt. The study selected primary ecological sources by analyzing high-level ecosystem service functions over time, using Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA). Ecological resistance surfaces were constructed using natural factors to address ecological risks associated with future urbanization. The construction of the ecological security pattern (ESP) followed the source–corridor–node paradigm, incorporating changes in ecosystem service risks. From 2010 to 2020, ecosystem service functions and values in Mianzhu City declined overall, with significant spatial variations. Human activities increased in ecologically fragile areas, aggravating exposure to ecological risks from climate change and urban expansion. Ecological protection and restoration zones were identified, with nature reserves in the north and the southern center as the core. In 2020, 19 ecological sources and 46 ecological corridors were identified, with a spatial distribution pattern of “more length and short resistance in the north, less length and long resistance in the south”. Additionally, 41 ecological pinch points and 16 ecological barrier points were determined. Considering the spatial distribution of the core areas of ecosystem services and lands with human-intensive activities, setting up the general idea of the ecological restoration pattern centered on forests, river corridors, and natural and artificial landscapes. The study provides new insights into constructing and optimizing the ESP, offering crucial references for the rapid urbanization of ecological restoration and development planning in urban regions.
Interaction Effect of Carbon Emission and Ecological Risk in the Yangtze River Economic Belt: New Insights into Multi-Simulation Scenarios
Authors: Qu Hongjiao , Wang Weiyin , You Chang , Guo Luo
Published: June 2024

The scientific quantification of the ecological effects of carbon emissions, the reduction of ecological risk (ER), and the evaluation of the interaction effect between carbon emissions and ER are the pivotal measures for ensuring the longevity and continuity of sustainability. However, a dearth of comprehensive and macro-level evaluations exist pertaining to the ER and carbon emissions within the entirety of the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB). We have constructed four distinct simulated scenarios within the YREB, which include natural development (ND), cultivated land protection (CLP), ecological conservation (EC), and low carbon (LC) scenarios. Based on the consideration of future uncertainty, we predicted LUCEs and ERI under different scenarios, and analyzed the spatial interaction effects of LUCEs and ERI from the dual perspectives of the spatial spillover effect and spatial coupling effect. The results showed that under the four outlined scenarios, encompassing diverse parameters, conversion possibilities, and areas subject to restrictions, the land utilization patterns of the YREB in 2030 have unveiled pronounced disparities. The LUCEs in the YREB showed significant spatial heterogeneity under the four scenarios; the maximum value was 6.65 under the CLP scenario and the minimum value was 4.65 under the LC scenario. The ER has the highest value under the ND scenario and the lowest value under LC scenario. Construction land is the largest contributor to increased LUCEs, and forest land is the form of terrestrial utilization that reduces the impact of LUCEs. In different scenarios, LUCEs have a significant negative spillover effect on ER, while the bidirectional spatial coupling effect between LUCEs and ERI presents significant differences. Under the LC scenario, land with a strong carbon sequestration capacity increased significantly, the fragmentation of water bodies was alleviated, and the CCD was the highest. This study offers scientific counsel for the sustainable development of various regions within the YREB, thereby fostering the achievement of a harmonious coexistence between the ecological milieu and economic development.
Competition for Land: Equity and Renewable Energy in Farmlands
Authors: Cunningham Mary Ann , Seidman Jeffrey
Published: June 2024

The development of renewable energy in agricultural landscapes has led to new debates about siting solar, wind, and other energy projects. Concerns for protecting food production and prime agricultural soils are often leading points of resistance to renewable energy projects. This resistance has grown, even as the urgency of transitioning away from fossil fuels has increased. The economic stakes are high, particularly for farmers seeking to diversify and stabilize farm income with renewables, but few studies have examined the likely magnitude of effects, either on food production or on farm incomes, implied by expanding renewables. How extensively are hosting communities likely to be impacted, and what do farmers stand to gain, or lose, in these debates? Focusing on a portion of New York State (NYS), with its aggressive solar development goals, we evaluated the effects of state solar targets on farmland and the economic potential for farmers leasing land. In comparison to current income from leading crops, land leasing alone would imply an increase of $42 million per year in local revenue, while affecting less than 12 percent of non-food producing, non-prime soils within the study area. The areal impacts are larger in our imaginations than in the real landscapes, and the debate has far-reaching implications for policy beyond farming areas.
Polyvinyl Acetate Binders Undermine the Effectiveness of Biochar-Based Seed Coatings
Authors: Thomas Sean C. , Liu Yudong , Tang Esther
Published: June 2024

Pyrolyzed organic matter, commonly referred to as biochar, generally has positive effects on plant growth and can enhance early seedling development. Biochar-based seed coatings may thus be beneficial, specifically under adverse soil conditions such as high soil salinity. Using a series of lab and greenhouse experiments, we evaluated germination and early plant development in radish (Raphinus sativa) seeds coated with conifer-feedstock slow-pyrolysis biochar. Following the precedent of prior studies, polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) was used as the binding agent. Biochar-based seed coatings reduced germination rates and radicle extension in Petri dish trials; however, leaching of coated seeds largely eliminated this effect. PVAc applied in solution inhibited seed germination to a similar extent, suggesting that toxicity of PVAc or chemical products derived from it is the main mechanism for germination inhibition. A meta-analysis of published literature also indicates negative effects of biochar-based seed coatings using PVAc. In greenhouse trials, the same biochar seed coatings improved aspects of plant growth and physiological status relative to controls, specifically enhancing root development. We conclude that biochar-based seed coatings have promise in promoting early seedling growth and potentially in combating salinity stress in agronomic and restoration applications. However, our findings contraindicate PVAc use as a binding agent. Further research is needed to test non-phytotoxic, readily biodegradable binding agents and to optimize biochars and seed coating processes for specific applications in agronomy and ecological restoration.
Sustainable Agriculture and Its Impact on the Rural Development in EU Countries: A Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Herman Emilia
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to highlight the interrelationship between the environmental, social, and economic pillars of agricultural sustainability and their impact on rural development in EU countries. By considering the cumulative influence of 15 social, economic, and environmental indicators, the study clustered the EU countries into five homogeneous groups using principal component analysis and cluster analysis. The research findings confirm that there is a significant trade-off between the three dimensions of sustainability, particularly between the environmental dimension, on the one hand, and the socio–economic dimension, on the other. Thus, the main real challenges identified for the countries included in cluster 5 (Bulgaria, Greece, Croatia, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Romania, and Hungary) are related to the socio–economic pillar of sustainability. Moreover, for four EU countries (Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, and Ireland), included in two different clusters, achieving environmental goals such as reducing agricultural emissions (SDG 2.60) and increasing area under organic farming (SDG 2.40) represents a significant issue in sustainable agriculture. The results highlighted specific challenges to sustainability in agriculture for EU countries that can hinder its effects on rural development. Therefore, tailored measures should be designed to efficiently address these specific issues.
Understanding Active Photoprotection: DNA-Repair Enzymes and Antioxidants
Authors: Garcia-Mouronte Emilio , Pérez-González Luis Alfonso , Naharro-Rodriguez Jorge , Fernández Guarino Montserrat
Published: June 2024

The detrimental effects of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on human skin are well-documented, encompassing DNA damage, oxidative stress, and an increased risk of carcinogenesis. Conventional photoprotective measures predominantly rely on filters, which scatter or absorb UV radiation, yet fail to address the cellular damage incurred post-exposure. To fill this gap, antioxidant molecules and DNA–repair enzymes have been extensively researched, offering a paradigm shift towards active photoprotection capable of both preventing and reversing UV–induced damage. In the current review, we focused on “active photoprotection”, assessing the state-of-the-art, latest advancements and scientific data from clinical trials and in vivo models concerning the use of DNA-repair enzymes and naturally occurring antioxidant molecules.
A Review of the Rheological Consistency of Materials
Authors: Gurt Alan , Khonsari Michael
Published: June 2024

Despite the ubiquity and prevalence of rheological consistency across a wide range of industries, there is no clear consensus on its meaning or on one particular technique for quantifying it. Instead, there exist various definitions of “consistency” that are each specific to a given context, and each industry has its own procedure for measuring it. This paper organizes the many subjects and terminologies associated with consistency, providing a comprehensive guide of fundamental mechanics, fundamental properties, modeling techniques, and standardized tests that describe consistency. This includes outlining the rheological models that describe the behavior of viscoelastic and non-Newtonian materials as well as the identification of numerous parameters that can be individually evaluated to comprehensively understand and quantify consistency. Such an understanding of consistency and its underlying mechanical properties encourages the refinement of current consistency test methods and development of new ones.
Prediction of the Behaviour from Discharge Points for Solid Waste Management
Authors: De-la-Mata-Moratilla Sergio , Gutierrez-Martinez Jose-Maria , Castillo-Martinez Ana , Caro-Alvaro Sergio
Published: June 2024

This research investigates the behaviour of the Discharge Points in a Municipal Solid Waste Management System to evaluate the feasibility of making individual predictions of every Discharge Point. Such predictions could enhance system management through optimisation, improving their ecological and economic impact. The current approaches consider installations as a whole, but individual predictions may yield better results. This paper follows a methodology that includes analysing data from 200 different Discharge Points over a period of four years and applying twelve forecast algorithms found as more commonly used for these predictions in the literature, including Random Forest, Support Vector Machines, and Decision Tree, to identify predictive patterns. The results are compared and evaluated to determine the accuracy of individual predictions and their potential improvements. As the results show that the algorithms do not capture the individual Discharge Points behaviour, alternative approaches are suggested for further development.
Q-Sorting: An Algorithm for Reinforcement Learning Problems with Multiple Cumulative Constraints
Authors: Huang Jianfeng , Lu Guoqiang , Li Yi , Wu Jiajun
Published: June 2024

This paper proposes a method and an algorithm called Q-sorting for reinforcement learning (RL) problems with multiple cumulative constraints. The primary contribution is a mechanism for dynamically determining the focus of optimization among multiple cumulative constraints and the objective. Executed actions are picked through a procedure with two steps: first filter out actions potentially breaking the constraints, and second sort the remaining ones according to the Q values of the focus in descending order. The algorithm was originally developed upon the classic tabular value representation and episodic setting of RL, but the idea can be extended and applied to other methods with function approximation and discounted setting. Numerical experiments are carried out on the adapted Gridworld and the motor speed synchronization problem, both with one and two cumulative constraints. Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed Q-sorting in that cumulative constraints are honored both during and after the learning process. The advantages of Q-sorting are further emphasized through comparison with the method of lumped performances (LP), which takes constraints into account through weighting parameters. Q-sorting outperforms LP in both ease of use (unnecessity of trial and error to determine values of the weighting parameters) and performance consistency (6.1920 vs. 54.2635 rad/s for the standard deviation of the cumulative performance index over 10 repeated simulation runs). It has great potential for practical engineering use.
Multi-Soliton, Soliton–Cnoidal, and Lump Wave Solutions for the Supersymmetric Boussinesq Equation
Authors: Wei Peng-Fei , Zhang Hao-Bo , Liu Ye , Lin Si-Yu , Chen Rui-Yu , Xu Zi-Yi , Wang Wan-Li , Ren Bo
Published: June 2024

Based on the bosonization approach, the supersymmetric Boussinesq equation is converted into a coupled bosonic system. The symmetry group and the commutation relations of the corresponding bosonic system are determined through the Lie point symmetry theory. The group invariant solutions of the coupled bosonic system are analyzed by the symmetry reduction technique. Special traveling wave solutions are generated by using the mapping and deformation method. Some novel solutions, such as multi-soliton, soliton–cnoidal interaction solutions, and lump waves, are given by utilizing the Hirota bilinear and the consistent tanh expansion methods. The methods in this paper can be effectively expanded to study rich localized waves for other supersymmetric systems.
The ασ-Approximation Property and Its Related Operator Ideals
Authors: Kim Ju Myung
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we study the σ-tensor norm (ασ), the absolutely τ-summing operator and the σ-nuclear operator. We characterize the ασ-approximation property in terms of some density of the space of absolutely τ-summing operators. When X* or Y*** has the approximation property, we prove that an operator T from X to Y is σ-nuclear if the adjoint of T is σ-nuclear.
A Hybrid Approach for the Multi-Criteria-Based Optimization of Sequence-Dependent Setup-Based Flow Shop Scheduling
Authors: Yigit Fatih , Basilio Marcio Pereira , Pereira Valdecy
Published: June 2024

A key challenge in production management and operational research is the flow shop scheduling problem, characterized by its complexity in manufacturing processes. Traditional models often assume deterministic conditions, overlooking real-world uncertainties like fluctuating demand, variable processing times, and equipment failures, significantly impacting productivity and efficiency. The increasing demand for more adaptive and robust scheduling frameworks that can handle these uncertainties effectively drives the need for research in this area. Existing methods do not adequately capture modern manufacturing environments’ dynamic and unpredictable nature, resulting in inefficiencies and higher operational costs; they do not employ a fuzzy approach to benefit from human intuition. This study successfully demonstrates the application of Hexagonal Type-2 Fuzzy Sets (HT2FS) for the accurate modeling of the importance of jobs, thereby advancing fuzzy logic applications in scheduling problems. Additionally, it employs a novel Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) approach employing Proportional Picture Fuzzy AHP (PPF-AHP) for group decision-making in a flow shop scheduling context. The research outlines the methodology involving three stages: group weight assessment through a PPF-AHP for the objectives, weight determination using HT2FS for the jobs, and optimization via Genetic Algorithm (GA), a method that gave us the optimal solution. This study contributes significantly to operational research and production scheduling by proposing a sophisticated, hybrid model that adeptly navigates the complexities of flow shop scheduling. The integration of HT2FS and MCDM techniques, particularly PPF-AHP, offers a novel approach that enhances decision-making accuracy and paves the way for future advancements in manufacturing optimization.
Risk Transmission in Low-Carbon Supply Chains Considering Corporate Risk Aversion
Authors: Chen Tingqiang , Zhu Ruirui , Wang Lei
Published: June 2024

In order to study the impact of risk aversion characteristics of enterprises on supply chain risk transmission, the risk aversion utility function is introduced, and the risk elasticity coefficient is used to construct a supplier-dominated low-carbon supply chain risk transmission model. Simulation analysis is conducted to investigate the transmission of emission reduction and revenue risks caused by internal and external contingent risk factors. The study reveals that under conditions of market demand uncertainty, the risk transmission effect is unaffected by the risk aversion characteristics of members in the low-carbon supply chain. While the risk-aversion characteristics of suppliers can decrease their own profit risk, they have a negative effect on the profit risk of manufacturers and the emission reduction risk of supply chain nodes. There exists a critical threshold for the impact of the risk-aversion degree of suppliers on their own emission reduction risk transmission effect. When this threshold is exceeded, the emission reduction risk decreases with increasing risk aversion intensity of suppliers, and vice versa. The risk aversion characteristics of manufacturers can weaken the negative effect of supplier risk aversion on the fluctuation risk of manufacturer profits, but they exacerbate the emission reduction risk transmission effect of manufacturers under asymmetric information influence. The findings have important theoretical and practical implications for supply chain risk management.
Last Word in Last-Mile Logistics: A Novel Hybrid Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Model for Ranking Industry 4.0 Technologies
Authors: Veljović Miloš , Tadić Snežana , Krstić Mladen
Published: June 2024

The complexity, increasing flow number and volumes, and challenges of last-mile logistics (LML) motivate or compel companies, authorities, and the entire community to think about ways to increase efficiency, reliability, and profits, reduce costs, reduce negative environmental impacts, etc. These objectives can be met by applying Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies, but the key question is which one. To solve this task, this paper used an innovative method that combines the fuzzy analytic network process (fuzzy ANP) and the fuzzy axial-distance-based aggregated measurement (fuzzy ADAM) method. The first was used for determining criteria weights and the second for selecting the best variant. The best solution is e/m-marketplaces, followed by cloud-computing-supported management and control systems and blockchain. These results indicate that widely adopted and implemented technologies are suitable for last-mile logistics. Newer technologies already producing significant results have serious potential for further development in this area. The main novelties and contributions of this paper are the definition of a new methodology based on multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods, as well as its application for ranking I4.0 technologies for LML.
IoT-Driven Transformation of Circular Economy Efficiency: An Overview
Authors: Turskis Zenonas , Šniokienė Violeta
Published: June 2024

The intersection of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the circular economy (CE) creates a revolutionary opportunity to redefine economic sustainability and resilience. This review article explores the intricate interplay between IoT technologies and CE economics, investigating how the IoT transforms supply chain management, optimises resources, and revolutionises business models. IoT applications boost efficiency, reduce waste, and prolong product lifecycles through data analytics, real-time tracking, and automation. The integration of the IoT also fosters the emergence of inventive circular business models, such as product-as-a-service and sharing economies, offering economic benefits and novel market opportunities. This amalgamation with the IoT holds substantial implications for sustainability, advancing environmental stewardship and propelling economic growth within emerging CE marketplaces. This comprehensive review unfolds a roadmap for comprehending and implementing the pivotal components propelling the IoT’s transformation toward CE economics, nurturing a sustainable and resilient future. Embracing IoT technologies, the authors embark on a journey transcending mere efficiency, heralding an era where economic progress harmonises with full environmental responsibility and the CE’s promise.