bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived Leadership Support, Safety Citizenship, and Employee Safety Behavior in the Construction Industry: The Role of Safety Learning
Authors: Kadher Yousef , Alzubi Ahmad , Berberoğlu Ayşen , Öz Tolga
Published: October 2024

The construction industry faces significant challenges in ensuring worker safety, encompassing both physical hazards and mental health concerns. Drawing on Social Exchange Theory (SET), this study explores the impact of perceived leadership support (PLS) on employee safety behavior (ESB) and safety citizenship behavior (SCB), focusing on the mediating role of SCB and the moderating effect of safety learning (SL). A quantitative approach was employed, collecting a sample size of 410 construction workers from various companies within the Turkish construction sector. Data were collected through electronic questionnaires and analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results reveal that PLS positively influences both ESB and SCB. Additionally, SCB mediates the relationship between PLS and ESB, while SL moderates the effect of PLS on both SCB and ESB, further strengthening the positive relationships. This study highlights the critical role of leadership support and safety learning in promoting safer behaviors within the construction industry, suggesting that organizations should cultivate a proactive safety culture to enhance safety outcomes.
Advanced Predictive Structural Health Monitoring in High-Rise Buildings Using Recurrent Neural Networks
Authors: Ghaffari Abbas , Shahbazi Yaser , Mokhtari Kashavar Mohsen , Fotouhi Mohammad , Pedrammehr Siamak
Published: October 2024

This study proposes a machine learning (ML) model to predict the displacement response of high-rise structures under various vertical and lateral loading conditions. The study combined finite element analysis (FEA), parametric modeling, and a multi-objective genetic algorithm to create a robust and diverse dataset of loading scenarios for developing a predictive ML model. The ML model was trained using a recurrent neural network (RNN) with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) layers. The developed model demonstrated high accuracy in predicting time series of vertical, lateral (X), and lateral (Y) displacements. The training and testing results showed Mean Squared Errors (MSE) of 0.1796 and 0.0033, respectively, with R2 values of 0.8416 and 0.9939. The model’s predictions differed by only 0.93% from the actual vertical displacement values and by 4.55% and 7.35% for lateral displacements in the Y and X directions, respectively. The results demonstrate the model’s high accuracy and generalization ability, making it a valuable tool for structural health monitoring (SHM) in high-rise buildings. This research highlights the potential of ML to provide real-time displacement predictions under various load conditions, offering practical applications for ensuring the structural integrity and safety of high-rise buildings, particularly in high-risk seismic areas.
Exploring the Impact of Digital Technologies on Team Collaborative Design
Authors: Yu Rongrong , Gu Ning , Masoumzadeh Soroush
Published: October 2024

This paper presents the results of a protocol study exploring the impact of various digital technologies on team collaborative design processes. Previous studies have suggested that compared to traditional methods such as sketching, digital technologies can provide further benefits for collaborative processes. However, there persists a lack of understanding about the impacts of digital technologies on such processes, particularly in relation to emerging significant digital technologies such as immersive Virtual Reality (VR). Therefore, this study aims to fill that gap by exploring team collaboration behaviours of two groups of professionals working in two digital design environments—desktop 3D modelling with Revit and immersive VR using Hyve-3D—as well as their behaviours during traditional sketching sessions for benchmarking purposes. Utilising protocol analysis method, the think-aloud data of participants was recorded, transcribed and coded using an adapted collaborative practice model. Team collaboration activities are broadly categorised as ‘Content’ or ‘Process’: content referring to design task-based activities, while process refers to activities related to the organising of group processes. The results suggest that during the design collaboration process, designers allocated the majority of their efforts towards process-oriented design activities. Differences between design environments only had a minor impact on the amount of effort expended on process-oriented activities and content-oriented activities. Moreover, traditional sketching design environments were shown to be potentially beneficial for problem-solution and associated negotiation activities. Additionally, immersive environments were associated with a reduction in the designers’ cognitive effort that was expended on exploring the design environment.
Seismic Performance Analysis of RC Frame Structure Beam–Column Joints Based on Strong Column and Weak Beam Method
Authors: Zhang Yikang
Published: October 2024

Based on the design concept of a strong column and weak beam, a new type of reinforced concrete frame structure beam–column joint is proposed. Considering different column end amplification factors (beam–column bending moment ratio), the finite element method (FEA) is used to analyze the parameters that affect the seismic performance of RC frame structure beam–column joints. The reliability verification error is within 4.8% to 11.7%, meeting the requirements of engineering accuracy. Then, through parameter analysis, the effects of different concrete strengths, stirrup diameters, and axial pressures on the seismic performance of the joint are studied. The study results show that enhancing concrete strength has a significant effect on the seismic performance of the structure, especially when the amplification factor is 2.0. Compared with the C20 specimen, the bearing capacity of the C40 specimen increased by 26.88%. However, the increase in stirrup diameter did not significantly improve the performance of the specimen. In addition, a high axial pressure ratio may affect the bearing capacity of the structure. This study provides a new type of beam–column joint that conforms to the design concept of a strong column and weak beam and provides a theoretical basis for its application in engineering.
Novel TSPO Ligand 2-Cl-MGV-1 Can Counteract Lipopolysaccharide Induced Inflammatory Response in Murine RAW264.7 Macrophage Cell Line and Lung Models
Authors: Obeid Fadi , Kahana Meygal , Dahle Baraah , Monga Sheelu , Zohar Yaniv , Weizman Abraham , Gavish Moshe
Published: October 2024

We assessed the anti-inflammatory activity of the TSPO ligand 2-Cl-MGV-1. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce inflammatory response in a murine RAW264.7 macrophage model (LPS: 100 ng/mL) and a mouse model (C57BL/6) of lung inflammation (LPS: 5 mg/kg). In the macrophage model, the presence of 2-Cl-MGV-1 (25 µM) caused the LPS-induced elevation in nitrite levels to decrease by 70% (p < 0.0001) and interleukin (IL)-6 by 50% (p < 0.05). In the mouse model, 2-Cl-MGV-1, administered 30 min before, or co-administered with, an LPS injection, significantly inhibited the elevation in serum IL-5 levels (both by 65%; p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). 2-Cl-MGV-1 administration to mice 30 min before LPS injection and 1 h thereafter significantly inhibited the elevation in IL-1β serum levels (both by 63%, p < 0.005). IL-6 elevation was inhibited by 73% (p < 0.005) when 2-Cl-MGV-1 was administered 30 min before LPS, by 60% (p < 0.05) when co-administered with LPS, and by 64% (p < 0.05) when administered 1 h after LPS. All cytokine assessments were conducted 6 h post LPS injection. Histological analyses showed decreased leukocyte adherence in the lung tissue of the ligand-treated mice. 2-Cl-MGV-1 administration 30 min prior to exposure to LPS inhibited inflammation-induced open field immobility. The beneficial effect of 2-Cl-MGV-1 suggests its potential as a therapeutic option for inflammatory diseases.
Accelerated Aging Effects Observed In Vitro after an Exposure to Gamma-Rays Delivered at Very Low and Continuous Dose-Rate Equivalent to 1–5 Weeks in International Space Station
Authors: Restier-Verlet Juliette , Ferlazzo Mélanie L. , Granzotto Adeline , Al-Choboq Joëlle , Bellemou Camélia , Estavoyer Maxime , Lecomte Florentin , Bourguignon Michel , Pujo-Menjouet Laurent , Foray Nicolas
Published: October 2024

Radiation impacting astronauts in their spacecraft come from a “bath” of high-energy rays (0.1–0.5 mGy per mission day) that reaches deep tissues like the heart and bones and a “stochastic rain” of low-energy particles from the shielding and impacting surface tissues like skin and lenses. However, these two components cannot be reproduced on Earth together. The MarsSimulator facility (Toulouse University, France) emits, thanks to a bag containing thorium salts, a continuous exposure of 120 mSv/y, corresponding to that prevailing in the International Space Station (ISS). By using immunofluorescence, we assessed DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) induced by 1–5 weeks exposure in ISS of human tissues evoked above, identified at risk for space exploration. All the tissues tested elicited DSBs that accumulated proportionally to the dose at a tissue-dependent rate (about 40 DSB/Gy for skin, 3 times more for lens). For the lens, bones, and radiosensitive skin cells tested, perinuclear localization of phosphorylated forms of ataxia telangiectasia mutated protein (pATM) was observed during the 1st to 3rd week of exposure. Since pATM crowns were shown to reflect accelerated aging, these findings suggest that a low dose rate of 120 mSv/y may accelerate the senescence process of the tested tissues. A mathematical model of pATM crown formation and disappearance has been proposed. Further investigations are needed to document these results in order to better evaluate the risks related to space exploration.
Hydrogen-Rich Syngas Production in a Ce0.9Zr0.05Y0.05O2−δ/Ag and Molten Carbonates Membrane Reactor
Authors: Raya-Colín José A. , Romero-Serrano José A. , Carrera-Figueiras Cristian , Fabián-Anguiano José A. , Balmori-Ramírez Heberto , Ovalle-Encinia Oscar , Ortiz-Landeros José
Published: October 2024

This study proposes a new dense membrane for selectively separating CO2 and O2 at high temperatures and simultaneously producing syngas. The membrane consists of a cermet-type material infiltrated with a ternary carbonate phase. Initially, the co-doped ceria of composition Ce0.9Zr0.05Y0.05O2−δ (CZY) was synthesized by using the conventional solid-state reaction method. Then, the ceramic was mixed with commercial silver powders using a ball milling process and subsequently uniaxially pressed and sintered to form the disk-shaped cermet. The dense membrane was finally formed via the infiltration of molten salts into the porous cermet supports. At high temperatures (700–850 °C), the membranes exhibit CO2/N2 and O2/N2 permselectivity and a high permeation flux under different CO2 concentrations in the feed and sweeping gas flow rates. The observed permeation properties make its use viable for CO2 valorization via the oxy-CO2 reforming of methane, wherein both CO2 and O2 permeated gases were effectively utilized to produce hydrogen-rich syngas (H2 + CO) through a catalytic membrane reactor arrangement at different temperatures ranging from 700 to 850 °C. The effect of the ceramic filler in the cermet is discussed, and continuous permeation testing, up to 115 h, demonstrated the membrane’s superior chemical and thermal stability by confirming the absence of any chemical interaction between the material and the carbonates as well as the absence of significant sintering concerns with the pure silver.
Developmental Profile of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Versus Social Communication Disorder: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dame Clara , Viellard Marine , Elissalde Sara-Nora , Pergeline Hugo , Grandgeorge Pauline , Garie Laure-Anne , Solla Federico , Martino Sonia De , Avenel Elodie , Salle-Collemiche Xavier , Fernandez Arnaud , Poinso François , Jouve Elisabeth , Guivarch Jokthan
Published: October 2024

Background: Social Communication Disorder (SCD), introduced in the DSM-5, is distinguished from Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by the absence of restricted and repetitive behaviors or interests (RRBIs). Aim: To compare the adaptive, sensory, communication, and cognitive profiles of children with ASD and SCD. Methods: The assessments of nine children with SCD and ten with ASD were compared with either Fisher’s Exact Test or the Mann–Whitney Test. Assessments included the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), the Short Sensory Profile, Bishop’s Children’s Communication Checklist, a pragmatics evaluation, and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children IV. Results: The total ADOS score and the second subtotal “Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors” were significantly higher (p = 0.022) in the ASD group than in the SCD group. The Vineland standard score for the “Socialization” domain was significantly lower (p = 0.037) in the ASD group (mean: 51 +/− 19) than in the SCD group (mean: 80 +/− 28). The working memory index score was also significantly lower (p = 0.013) in the ASD group compared to the SCD group. Conclusions: While ASD and SCD share similarities in communication and pragmatic difficulties, some distinctions have been identified, e.g. in executive functioning and the impact on socialization, which may be linked to the absence of RRBIs in SCD. These findings highlight the challenges posed by this nosographic separation during diagnostic evaluations due to the scarcity of discriminative tools.
A Multi-Scale Species Distribution Model for Migrating and Overwintering Western Monarch Butterflies: Climate Is the Best Predictor
Authors: Fisher Ashley R. , Bean William T. , Villablanca Francis X.
Published: October 2024

Western Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) migrate from inland breeding ranges to coastal overwintering grounds in California. Given that migratory individuals may make multi-scale habitat selection decisions, we considered a multi-scale species distribution model (SDM) using range-wide climatic and local landscape-level predictors of migratory and overwintering habitat and community-science presence data. The range-wide model output was included as a predictor in the local-scale model, generating multi-scale habitat suitability. The top range-wide predictor was the minimum temperature in December, contributing 83.7% to the model, and was positively associated with presence. At the local scale, the strongest predictors of presence were the range-wide output and percent coverage of low and medium levels of development, contributing > 95%, with 61–63% from the range-wide output, with local-scale suitability coinciding with the California coastal zones. Development’s positive association with overwintering monarch presence was counterintuitive. It is likely that our local-scale model is overfit to these development zones, but it is unclear whether this overfitting resulted from modeler choices, monarchs overwintering close to human development, biased detection near human development, or a combination of these factors. Therefore, alternative approaches to collecting local-scale attribute data are suggested while recognizing the primacy of climate in restricting overwinter sites.
Establishment, Multiplication, and Biochemical Analysis of Embryogenic Lines of the Amazonian Palm Euterpe precatoria Mart. under Suspension Culture
Authors: Vasconcelos Alexandro Dias Martins , Ferreira Jéssica Cristina Barbosa , Meira Rennan Oliveira , Silva-Cardoso Inaê Mariê de Araújo , Neves Joane dos Santos , Souza Anderson Marcos de , Souza André Luís Xavier de , Scherwinski-Pereira Jonny Everson
Published: October 2024

The palm Euterpe precatoria holds great social, cultural, and environmental importance. The heart of palm and the fruit are the main products used for industrialization due to their energetic properties. Thus, the aim of this study was to establish a suspension cultivation protocol for the species using different explant sources. For this, eight lineages of E. precatoria embryogenic calluses were tested, with five in liquid medium Murashige and Skoog (MS) with 5 μM Picloram and three for comparison in semisolid medium MS with 20 μM Picloram and 5 μM 2iP. The growth curve was obtained by weighing the calli from 60 to 180 days of cultivation. The Gompertz model was applied, and growth kinetics were evaluated. At 100 days, the contents of total soluble sugars (TSSs) and total soluble proteins (TSPs) were determined. Principal components (PCA) were measured. According to the analysis of the data, the cultivation of E. precatoria lineages in liquid medium was successfully carried out, and the establishment was achieved. The model can be considered adequate since the R2 values found describe more than 90% of the growth kinetics of the lineages. In the liquid system, lineages L1 (from leaf explants and multiplied in semisolid medium—SM), L2 (from leaf explants and multiplied in SM), and L6 (from zygotic embryo explants and multiplied in liquid medium—LM) showed the shortest time to double the biomass accumulation. Multivariate analysis reveals a significant increase in masses in liquid cultures, represented by lineages L6 and L2. There was statistical difference in the amount of TSSs extracted; the highest TSS levels were observed in lineages cultivated in LM. The protein content found was very low, showing statistical differences among the lineages. In this work, the establishment and multiplication of embryogenic calli of E. precatoria are described for the first time, and they emerge as viable alternatives for the vegetative propagation of the species.
Exploring Distribution and Evolution of Pi-ta Haplotypes in Rice Landraces across Different Rice Cultivation Regions in Yunnan
Authors: Luo Hengming , Lu Lin , Wang Qun , Guo Zhixiang , Liu Lina , He Chi , Shi Junyi , Dong Chao , Ma Qiaoping , Li Jinbin
Published: October 2024

Background: Rice blast, caused by Magnaporthe oryzae, seriously damages the yield and quality of rice worldwide. Pi-ta is a durable resistance gene that combats M. oryzae carrying AVR-Pita1. However, the distribution of the Pi-ta gene in rice germplasms in Yunnan Province has been inadequately studied. Methods: We analyzed the potential molecular evolution pattern of Pi-ta alleles by examining the diversity in the coding sequence (CDS) among rice varieties. Results: The results revealed that 95% of 405 rice landraces collected from different ecological regions in Yunnan Province carry Pi-ta alleles. We identified 17 nucleotide variation sites in the CDS regions of the Pi-ta gene across 385 rice landraces. These variations led to the identification of 28 Pi-ta haplotypes, encoding 12 novel variants. Among these, 5 Pi-ta haplotypes (62 rice landraces) carried R alleles. The evolutionary cluster and network of the Pi-ta haplotypes suggested that the Pi-ta S alleles were the ancestral alleles, which could potentially evolve into R variants through base substitution. Conclusions: This study suggests that Pi-ta alleles are diverse in the rice landraces in Yunnan, and the Pi-ta sites resistant to blast evolved from the susceptible plants of the rice landraces. These results provide the basis for breeding resistant varieties.
A Methodologic Approach to Study Large and Complex Landslides: An Application in Central Apennines
Authors: Mangifesta Massimo , Aringoli Domenico , Pambianchi Gilberto , Giannini Leonardo Maria , Scalella Gianni , Sciarra Nicola
Published: October 2024

The evaluation of landslide hazards in seismic areas is based on a deterministic analysis, which is unable to account for various uncertainties in the analysis process. This paper focuses on the probabilistic local seismic hazard analysis and extends the results to the landslide hazard analysis to consider both the uncertainties of the ground deformations and the strengths. The work studies the areas between Nibbiano and Sant’Erasmo hamlets in the Camerino municipality located in central Italy, where all constructions present evidence of damage caused by both the seismic sequence of 2016–2017 and the slope instability. An exhaustive geological and geophysical investigation has clarified the geological, geomorphological, and hydrogeological characteristics of the area, enabling a new characterization of material stress-strain behaviour. The study reveals that the low stiffness of the debris covers, and their fair degree of permeability contribute to potential instability scenarios triggered by both intense rainfall and the effects of strong earthquakes. The goal was to utilize the results to support local urban planning because in-depth knowledge of the possible evolutionary scenarios of the slopes is fundamental to the management of the degree of danger for structures, especially for people. Moreover, it was shown once again how a multi-source approach, with different investigation techniques, cannot be ignored for the study of the evolution of complex landslides.
Antenatal Anovaginal Distance, a Potential Indicator of Perineal Damage during Pregnancy
Authors: Villani Federico , Cosmi Erich , Lunardon Zoe , Granci Martina , Panizza Cristina , Mazzucato Barbara , Cavalieri Antonella , Toma Mirela Marioara , Furau Roxana , Furau Cristian
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Perineal injuries, including episiotomies and spontaneous tears, are common complications during childbirth, often leading to significant discomfort and prolonged recovery for women. This retrospective observational cohort study aimed to explore the relationship between antenatal anovaginal distance (AVD) and the incidence of perineal injuries in a cohort of pregnant women evaluated for pelvic floor health at 28 to 32 weeks of gestation. Methods: Conducted at the University Hospital of Padua over 18 months, the study included 416 women who underwent vaginal delivery at term. Based on AVD, the study participants were divided into two groups: AVD-N group, which included 252 patients with AVD ≥ 2 cm, and the AVD-R group, which included 164 with AVD < 2 cm. The results of the pelvic floor assessment and those related to childbirth were then examined in relation to AVD (reduced vs. normal). Results: The study found that women with reduced AVD were more likely to experience perineal injuries. Specifically, the incidence of episiotomy and severe perineal tears (3rd and 4th degree) was significantly higher in the reduced AVD group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a lower AVD was associated with increased perineal muscle hypertonicity and a higher likelihood of operative delivery with episiotomy. Logistic regression analysis confirmed that reduced AVD was an independent risk factor for perineal injuries, regardless of other maternal or neonatal characteristics. Conclusions: These results suggest that AVD measurement during pregnancy may help identify women at higher risk of perineal trauma, enabling more personalized obstetric care to mitigate these outcomes.
Early Effects of Porcine Placental Extracts and Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes on Aging Stress in Skin Cells
Authors: Matsuoka Takaaki , Dan Katsuaki , Takanashi Keita , Ogino Akihiro
Published: October 2024

The initial efficacy of placental extracts (Pla-Exts) and human mesenchymal stem-cell-derived exosomes (hMSC-Exo) against aging-induced stress in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) was examined. The effect of Pla-Ext alone, hMSC-Exo alone, the combined effect of Pla-Ext and hMSC-Exo, and the effect of hMSC-Exo (Pla/MSC-Exo) recovered from cultures with Pla-Ext added to hMSC were verified using collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid synthase mRNA levels for each effect. Cells were subjected to photoaging (UV radiation), glycation (glycation end-product stimulation), and oxidation (H2O2 stimulation) as HDF stressors. Pla-Ext did not significantly affect normal skin fibroblasts with respect to intracellular parameters; however, a pro-proliferative effect was observed. Pla-Ext induced resistance to several stresses in skin fibroblasts (UV irradiation, glycation stimulation, H2O2 stimulation) and inhibited reactive oxygen species accumulation following H2O2 stimulation. Although the effects of hMSC-Exo alone or the combination of hMSC-Exo and Pla-Ext are unknown, pretreated hMSC-Exo stimulated with Pla-Ext showed changes that conferred resistance to aging stress. This suggests that Pla-Ext supplementation may cause some changes in the surface molecules or hMSC-Exo content (e.g., microRNA). In skin cells, the direct action of Pla-Ext and exosomes secreted from cultured hMSCs pretreated with Pla-Ext (Pla/MSC-Exo) also conferred resistance to early aging stress.
Prosthetic Joint Infection Research Models in NZW Rabbits: Opportunities for Standardization—A Systematic Review
Authors: van Agtmaal Julia L. , van Hoogstraten Sanne W. G. , Arts Jacobus J. C.
Published: October 2024

Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a major complication following total arthroplasty. Rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to antibiotics will further increase therapeutic insufficiency. New antibacterial technologies are being developed to prevent PJI. In vivo models are still needed to bridge the translational gap to clinical implementation. Though rabbit models have been used most frequently, there is no consensus about methodology and measured outcomes. The PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases were searched for literature on PJI in rabbit models. Data extraction included bias control, experimental design, and outcome measures of the NZW rabbit models in the articles. A total of 60 articles were included in this systematic literature review. The articles were divided into six groups based on the PJI intervention: no intervention used (21%), revision surgery (14%), prevention with only antibiotics (21%), prevention with surface modifications (7%), prevention with coatings (23%), and others (14%). Despite the current availability of guidelines and recommendations regarding experimental design, bias control, and outcome measures, many articles neglect to report on these matters. Ultimately, this analysis aims to assist researchers in determining suitable clinically relevant methodologies and outcome measures for in vivo PJI models using NZW rabbits to test new antimicrobial technologies.
Research on the Influencing Factors of Art Intervention in the Environmental Graphics of Rural Cultural Tourism Space
Authors: Zhang Jingchun , Liu Xiaodong , Feng Zhiyu , Feng Xinqun
Published: October 2024

In the development of rural revitalization, the art intervention in rural cultural tourism has become a hot topic recently. With the advent of the new media era, it is particularly important to study the factors that affect the artistic value of environmental graphic design. This study proposes six dimensions of environmental graphic design for rural cultural tourism through literature analysis and experience summary, which are refined into 21 impact indicators. It is based on the case of the environmental graphic publicity of cultural tourism in Chongqing Nanshan Cattle Village, using the SBE beauty evaluation method to evaluate the influencing factors, while using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to measure each indicator. The consistency of the two evaluation methods verifies the feasibility of the influencing factors, and this study found the influence of visuality, cultural nature, artistic nature, interactivity, spatiality, and communicativeness on aesthetic value. Moreover, the core of environmental graphic design lies in information transmission, in which artistic nature occupies an important position, while cultural nature, although it has a relatively small weight in aesthetic value, cannot be ignored in social media communication. In terms of visual design, a reasonable layout of equipment significantly enhances visual appeal, while spatial adaptability is considered a key factor. This paper emphasizes the integration of art principles into design to promote sustainable development, while also pointing out that the identification of rural cultural symbols can enhance visitors’ cultural experience. In terms of interactivity, it is crucial to encourage visitors to actively participate and share their experiences, while communication emphasizes the important impact of exposure to rural scenes on brand communication. This research provides systematic theoretical support and practical guidance for the environmental graphic design of rural cultural tourism.
The House-Scale Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Italian Property Market
Authors: Morano Pierluigi , Di Liddo Felicia , Tajani Francesco
Published: October 2024

The present research aims at identifying any changes in the market appreciations of the residential segment in Italy caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With reference to the first half of 2023 (phase III, “post-COVID-19”), in the paper, a logical–operational methodology is implemented: a sample of properties sold in the two-month period January–February 2023 is collected and an econometric analysis is applied for determining (i) the most influential factors on selling prices and (ii) the functional links between prices and each selected explanatory variable. Furthermore, the findings obtained are compared with those related to the phases I, “ante-COVID-19”, and II, “COVID-19 in itinere” (by recalling a previous study of the same authors), to highlight the variations between the periods and provide useful guidelines for the design of domestic spaces in different Italian geographical contexts. In addition, this work conducts a comparison of the outputs derived from the econometric analysis starting from the real estate data collected on the reference markets (revealed preferences) with the results of a direct survey carried out on a sample of individuals through the administration of an ad hoc developed questionnaire and aimed at investigating the opinions of potential buyers of residential properties (stated preferences). The use of the “twin” approach (an analysis of perceptions via the direct survey integrated by the implementation of an econometric technique) allows us to verify the consistence of the real dynamics of market (expressed by the interviewees) with the mathematical model results for investigating the house-scale effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in the considered cities.
Performance Evaluation for the Expansion of Multi-Level Rail Transit Network in Xi’an Metropolitan Area: Empirical Analysis on Accessibility and Resilience
Authors: Zhao Yulin , Li Linkun , Zhang Zhishuo , Sun Daniel (Jian)
Published: October 2024

As the main form of new urbanization, the coordinated development of cities in metropolitan areas requires reliable and efficient rail transit skeleton support. However, in the rapid development of metropolitan areas, the layout and analysis of multi-level rail transit systems have a certain lag. Taking the Xi’an metropolitan area as an example, this study analyzes the comprehensive accessibility and resilience of the multi-level rail transit network, and proposes an expansion plan accordingly. The traffic analysis zone (TAZ) is divided by towns and streets, and the relationship between points of interest (POIs) and the regional average level is analyzed using DEA. The improved weighted average travel time model is built with the analysis results as regional weights; a site selection model based on multiple construction influencing factors is proposed, and four expansion plans, namely, economic optimal, environmental optimal, transport optimal, and integrated optimal, are designed. The peak passenger flow scenario and the “failure–reparation” scenario during the entire operation period are designed to analyze the resilience of four plans, and the resilience is quantified by the elasticity curve of the maximum connected subgraph ratio (MCSR) changing over time. The research results show that the transport optimal plan has the best comprehensive accessibility and resilience, reducing travel costs in Houzhenzi Town, which has the worst accessibility, by 34%. The expansion model and evaluation method in this study can provide an empirical example for the development of other metropolitan areas and provide a reasonable benchmark and guidance for the development of multi-level rail transit networks in future urban areas.
Study of Weight Quantization Associations over a Weight Range for Application in Memristor Devices
Authors: Kim Yerim , Noh Hee Yeon , Koo Gyogwon , Lee Hyunki , Lee Sanghan , Choi Rock-Hyun , Lee Shinbuhm , Lee Myoung-Jae , Lee Hyeon-Jun
Published: October 2024

The development of hardware-based cognitive computing systems critically hinges upon the integration of memristor devices capable of versatile weight expression across a spectrum of resistance levels while preserving consistent electrical properties. This investigation aims to explore the practical implementation of a digit recognition system utilizing memristor devices with minimized weighting levels. Through the process of weight quantization for digits represented by 25 or 49 input signals, the study endeavors to ascertain the feasibility of digit recognition via neural network computation. The integration of memristor devices into the system architecture is poised to streamline the representation of the resistors required for weight expression, thereby facilitating the realization of neural-network-based cognitive systems. To minimize the information corruption in the system caused by weight quantization, we introduce the concept of “weight range” in this work. The weight range is the range between the maximum and minimum values of the weights in the neural network. We found that this has a direct impact on weight quantization, which reduces the number of digits represented by a weight below a certain level. This was found to help maintain the information integrity of the entire system despite the reduction in weight levels. Moreover, to validate the efficacy of the proposed methodology, quantized weights are systematically applied to an array of double-layer neural networks. This validation process involves the construction of cross-point array circuits with dimensions of 25 × 10 and 10 × 10, followed by a meticulous examination of the resultant changes in the recognition rate of randomly generated numbers through device simulations. Such endeavors contribute to advancing the understanding and practical implementation of hardware-based cognitive computing systems leveraging memristor devices and weight quantization techniques.
Evolution of Tribotronics: From Fundamental Concepts to Potential Uses
Authors: He Yue , Tian Jia , Li Fangpei , Peng Wenbo , He Yongning
Published: October 2024

The intelligent sensing network is one of the key components in the construction of the Internet of Things, and the power supply technology of sensor communication nodes needs to be solved urgently. As a new field combining tribo-potential with semiconductor devices, tribotronics, based on the contact electrification (CE) effect, realizes direct interaction between the external environment and semiconductor devices by combining triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) and field-effect transistor (FET), further expanding the application prospects of micro/nano energy. In this paper, the research progress of tribotronics is systematically reviewed. Firstly, the mechanism of the CE effect and the working principles of TENG are introduced. Secondly, the regulation theory of tribo-potential on carrier transportation in semiconductor devices and the research status of tribotronic transistors are summarized. Subsequently, the applications of tribotronics in logic circuits and memory devices, smart sensors, and artificial synapses in recent years are demonstrated. Finally, the challenges and development prospects of tribotronics in the future are projected.
Effects of Different Additives and Ratios on Broom Sorghum Straw Silage Characteristics and Bacterial Communities
Authors: Sheng Panjie , Bai Baochao , Liu Mingjian , Ma Weiqin , Liu Jianliang , Song Chaoran , Du Shuai , Ge Gentu , Jia Yushan , Wang Zhijun
Published: October 2024

As a large agricultural country, China produces a large number of agricultural and sideline products while harvesting agricultural products every year. Crop straw is one of them. Broom sorghum is a traditional crop in China, which produces a large amount of straw resources every year. These straw resources are placed in the field and cannot be used efficiently. The purpose of this study was to solve the problem of straw utilization of Broom sorghum, one of the main food crops in arid and semi-arid areas of northern China. Broom sorghum is not only a nutritious food crop, its straw is also rich in crude fiber and mineral elements, which has high utilization value. However, due to the high content of lignocellulose in straw, the texture is hard, which limits its digestion and utilization efficiency as feed. In this study, the broom sorghum straw was used as the research object, and the straw raw materials were treated with Lactobacillus plantarum, cellulase and xylanase, respectively. After silage fermentation for 30 d and 60 d, the bags were opened to determine the nutritional quality, fermentation quality, microbial community structure and other indicators. The best fermentation time and additives for broom sorghum straw silage were comprehensively screened to improve the nutritional value of straw and animal production performance. The results showed that the nutritional quality of silage straw increased with the extension of fermentation time. Compared with silage straw after 30 days of fermentation, the nutritional quality and fermentation quality of straw were significantly improved after 60 days of fermentation. Lactobacillus plantarum, cellulase and xylanase could improve the silage performance of broom sorghum straw by improving the microbial community structure in straw, and the effect of cellulase was the best. When cellulase was used in straw at the standard of 20 U/g FM, the content of water-soluble carbohydrates could be significantly increased to 31.35 g/kg FM, and the concentration of lactic acid was also significantly increased to 23.79 g/kg FM. Therefore, in actual production, it is recommended to use cellulase at a dose of 20 U/g FM in broom sorghum silage and open the bag after 60 days of silage fermentation. The results of this study provided a scientific basis for the efficient utilization of broom sorghum straw as feed.
The Electrical Properties of Dacite Mixed with Various Pyrite Contents and Its Geophysical Applications for the High-Conductivity Duobaoshan Island Arc
Authors: Wang Mengqi , Sun Tong , Hong Meiling , Hu Ziming , Yin Qichun , Dai Lidong
Published: October 2024

In this work, a series of electrical conductivities of pyrite-bearing dacite were measured under 10−1–106 Hz, 573–973 K, 1.0–3.0 GPa, and different pyrite contents ranging from 0 vol.% to 20 vol.%) using a Solartron–1260 A impedance analyzer. For the dacite sample with 5 vol.% pyrite, the electrical conductivity of the dacite increased with temperature but slightly decreased when the pressure was increased from 1.0 GPa to 3.0 GPa. In the temperature range of 573–973 K, the bulk electrical conductivity of the pyrite-bearing dacite gradually increased with increasing pyrite percentage from 0 vol.% to 20 vol.% at 1.0 GPa. Thus, a positive correlation between the electrical conductivity of the sample and the pyrite content was typically observed. In light of the significant enhancement in the electrical conductivity of the interconnected pyrite in the dacite, the value of the percolation threshold was determined as 7 vol.%. Furthermore, the dominant conduction mechanism of the small polaron for pyrite-bearing dacite was proposed from our obtained results on the chemical compositions and activation enthalpies under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. A comprehensive consideration of our constructed electrical conductivity–depth profile based on the electrical conductivity of the pyrite-bearing dacite, can provide a good constraint on the volume of pyrite in dacite for high-conductivity Duobaoshan island arc. In conclusion, the presence of pyrite in dacite can provide a reasonable explanation for the high-conductivity anomaly observed in the region of Duobaoshan island arc.
Correction: More et al. Indirect Freeze Crystallization—An Emerging Technology for Valuable Resource Recovery from Wastewater. Minerals 2024, 14, 427
Authors: More Kagiso S. , Maree Johannes P. , Mahlangu Mlungisi
Published: October 2024

Johannes P [...]
Genesis of the Wuchiapingian Formation Tuffs and Their Relationship with the Tectonic Background of the Kaijiang–Liangping Trough in the Northern Sichuan Basin
Authors: Qin Limin , Lan Xiaodong
Published: October 2024

Controversy surrounds the forming time and tectonic background of the Kaijiang–Liangping Trough in the northern Sichuan Basin. The Wuchiapingian Formation, surrounding this Late Permian trough, contains tuffs, and industrial gas reservoirs have been discovered. However, the genesis of these tuffs, revealed by the drilling wells, remains unclear. In the present work, we analyzed the samples of sedimentary tuff from the core of the study area by macroscopic and microscopic analysis, combined with whole-rock major and trace element analysis, zircon U-Pb dating, and zircon trace element analysis, defining the genesis of the Wuchiapingian Formation tuffs around the Kaijiang–Liangping Trough, in an attempt to describe the initial tectonic context of the trough. The U-Pb ages of the tuffs measured in this study range from 255 to 259 Ma. They are slightly later than the activity of the Emeishan Large Igneous Province. Considering the trough’s distance from the center of the Emeishan Large Igneous Province and its location in the outer zone, it is more likely associated with acidic volcanic eruptions of the island arc. The arc was formed by the subduction activity of the Mianlue Ocean beneath the northern Yangtze Plate. In terms of the timing of activity and the tectonic position of the subduction zone, the Kaijiang–Liangping trough in the northern Sichuan Basin is more closely related to the closing of the Mianlue Ocean.
Virtual Instruments for Peak-Overlapping Studies to Determine Low- and High-Concentration Components with Ion Chromatography: Potassium and Sodium
Authors: Gros Nataša
Published: October 2024

We developed the LabVIEW-based virtual instruments (VIs) to bridge a gap in commercial software and to enable systematic peak-overlapping studies to recognise the concentration levels enabling reliable simultaneous determination of major and minor constituents in samples with wide concentration proportions. The VIs were applied to a case study of the ion chromatographic determination of potassium as minor and sodium as a major ion with an IonPac CS12A column and 50 μL injection loop. Two successive studies based on multilevel two-factorial response surface experimental designs, (1) a model peak-overlapping study based on single-ion injections, and (2) an accuracy and precision study, provided guidelines for real sample analyses. By adjusting sample dilutions so that the sodium mass concentration was set to 340 mg/L, the simultaneous determination of potassium in the presence of sodium was possible in samples with sodium over potassium concentration ratios between 14 and 341. The relative expanded uncertainty associated with potassium ion determination was between 0.52 and 4.4%, and the relative bias was between −3.8 and 1.9%. We analysed Ringer’s physiologic solutions, standard sea, trisodium citrate anticoagulant, and buffered citrate anticoagulant solutions. We confirmed that the VI-supported peak-overlapping studies contributed to the quality of results by enabling the evidence-based choices of concentration levels adjusted by a dilution.
Recent Progress in Terrestrial Biota Derived Antibacterial Agents for Medical Applications
Authors: Vladkova Todorka G. , Smani Younes , Martinov Boris L. , Gospodinova Dilyana N.
Published: October 2024

Conventional antibiotic and multidrug treatments are becoming less and less effective and the discovery of new effective and safe antibacterial agents is becoming a global priority. Returning to a natural antibacterial product is a relatively new current trend. Terrestrial biota is a rich source of biologically active substances whose antibacterial potential has not been fully utilized. The aim of this review is to present the current state-of-the-art terrestrial biota-derived antibacterial agents inspired by natural treatments. It summarizes the most important sources and newly identified or modified antibacterial agents and treatments from the last five years. It focuses on the significance of plant- animal- and bacteria-derived biologically active agents as powerful alternatives to antibiotics, as well as the advantages of utilizing natural antibacterial molecules alone or in combination with antibiotics. The main conclusion is that terrestrial biota-derived antibacterial products and substances open a variety of new ways for modern improved therapeutic strategies. New terrestrial sources of known antibacterial agents and new antibacterial agents from terrestrial biota were discovered during the last 5 years, which are under investigation together with some long-ago known but now experiencing their renaissance for the development of new medical treatments. The use of natural antibacterial peptides as well as combinational therapy by commercial antibiotics and natural products is outlined as the most promising method for treating bacterial infections. In vivo testing and clinical trials are necessary to reach clinical application.
Perspectives in Aptasensor-Based Portable Detection for Biotoxins
Authors: Li Congying , Zhu Ziyuan , Yao Jiahong , Chen Zhe , Huang Yishun
Published: October 2024

Biotoxins are pervasive in food and the environment, posing significant risk to human health. The most effective strategy to mitigate the risk arising from biotoxin exposure is through their specific and sensitive detection. Aptasensors have emerged as pivotal tools, leveraging aptamers as biorecognition elements to transduce the specificity of aptamer-target interactions into quantifiable signals for analytical applications, thereby facilitating the meticulous detection of biotoxins. When integrated with readily portable devices such as lateral flow assays (LFAs), personal glucose meters (PGMs), smartphones, and various meters measuring parameters like pH and pressure, aptasensors have significantly advanced the field of biotoxin monitoring. These commercially available devices enable precise, in situ, and real-time analysis, offering great potential for portable biotoxin detection in food and environmental matrices. This review highlights the recent progress in biotoxin monitoring using portable aptasensors, discussing both their potential applications and the challenges encountered. By addressing these impediments, we anticipate that a portable aptasensor-based detection system will open new avenues in biotoxin monitoring in the future.