bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super-Transparent Soil for In Situ Observation of Root Phenotypes
Authors: Xie Jinchun , Wu Qiye , Feng Liping , Li Junfu , Zhou Yingjie , Wu Guo-Zhang , Men Yongjun
Published: June 2024

Transparent soil (TS) presents immense potential for root phenotyping due to its ability to facilitate high-resolution imaging. However, challenges related to transparency, mechanical properties, and cost hinder its development. Herein, we introduce super-transparent soil (s-TS) prepared via the droplet method using low acyl gellan gum and hydroxyethyl cellulose crosslinked with magnesium ions. The refractive index of the hydroxyethyl cellulose solution (1.345) closely aligns with that of water (1.333) and the low acyl gellan gum solution (1.340), thereby significantly enhancing the transmittance of hydrogel-based transparent soil. Optimal transmittance (98.45%) is achieved with polymer concentrations ranging from 0.8 to 1.6 wt.% and ion concentrations between 0.01 and 0.09 mol·L−1. After 60 days of plant cultivation, s-TS maintains a transmittance exceeding 89.5%, enabling the detailed visualization of root growth dynamics. Furthermore, s-TS exhibits remarkable mechanical properties, withstanding a maximum compressive stress of 477 kPa and supporting a maximum load-bearing depth of 186 cm. This innovative approach holds promising implications for advanced root phenotyping studies, fostering the investigation of root heterogeneity and the development of selective expression under controlled conditions.
Characterization of Excited-State Electronic Structure in Diblock π-Conjugated Oligomers with Adjustable Linker Electronic Coupling
Authors: Gobeze Habtom B. , Younus Muhammed , Turlington Michael D. , Ahmed Sohel , Schanze Kirk S.
Published: June 2024

Diblock conjugated oligomers are π-conjugated molecules that contain two segments having distinct frontier orbital energies and HOMO-LUMO gap offsets. These oligomers are of fundamental interest to understand how the distinct π-conjugated segments interact and modify their excited state properties. The current paper reports a study of two series of diblock oligomers that contain oligothiophene (Tn) and 4,7-bis(2-thienyl)-2,1,3-benzothiadiazole (TBT) segments that are coupled by either ethynyl (-C≡C-) or trans-(-C≡C-)2Pt(II)(PBu3)2 acetylide linkers. In these structures, the Tn segment is electron rich (donor), and the TBT is electron poor (acceptor). The diblock oligomers are characterized by steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopy, including UV-visible absorption, fluorescence, fluorescence lifetimes, and ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy. Studies are compared in several solvents of different polarity and with different excitation wavelengths. The results reveal that the (-C≡C-) linked oligomers feature a delocalized excited state that takes on a charge transfer (CT) character in more polar media. In the (-C≡C-)2Pt(II)(PBu3)2-linked oligomers, there is weak coupling between the Tn and TBT segments. Consequently, short wavelength excitation selectively excites the Tn segment, which then undergoes ultrafast energy transfer (~1 ps) to afford a TBT-localized excited state.
Green Method Comparison and Optimization of Anthocyanin Recovery from “Sangiovese” Grape Pomace: A Critical Evaluation of the Design of Experiments Approach
Authors: Lianza Mariacaterina , Antognoni Fabiana
Published: June 2024

Grape pomace is the main by-product obtained from wine production that is still enriched in bioactive compounds. Within a framework of waste/by-product reuse through a sustainable approach, various green methods were utilized in this work to recover anthocyanins from the pomace resulting from “Sangiovese” grape vinification. Ultrasound- and Microwave-Assisted Extractions (UAE and MAE) were coupled with the use of green solvents, such as acidified water, an ethanol/water mixture, and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NaDES), and their efficacy was compared with that of a conventional method based on a methanol/acidified water mixture. The Total Anthocyanin Index ranged from 36.9 to 75.2 mg/g DW for UAE, and from 54.4 to 99.6 mg/g DW for MAE, while resulting in 47.1 mg/g DW for conventional extraction. A Design of Experiments (DoE) approach was applied to MAE, the most efficient technique. Temperature, time, and the solid-to-liquid ratio were set as X variables, while malvidin-3-O-glucoside content and antioxidant activity were used as response variables, measured by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode Array Detection (HPLC-DAD) and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, respectively. The correlation between temperature and time and the antioxidant activity of the extract was positive, while it was found to be negative when considering malvidin-3-O-glucoside concentration as a response variable. Thus, the optimal conditions in temperature, time and solid-to-liquid ratio were different depending on the chosen variable. The results underline the importance of selecting an accurate response when using the response surface methodology approach.
Unveiling Conformational States of CDK6 Caused by Binding of Vcyclin Protein and Inhibitor by Combining Gaussian Accelerated Molecular Dynamics and Deep Learning
Authors: Zhao Lu , Wang Jian , Yang Wanchun , Zhao Kunpeng , Sun Qingtao , Chen Jianzhong
Published: June 2024

CDK6 plays a key role in the regulation of the cell cycle and is considered a crucial target for cancer therapy. In this work, conformational transitions of CDK6 were identified by using Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics (GaMD), deep learning (DL), and free energy landscapes (FELs). DL finds that the binding pocket as well as the T-loop binding to the Vcyclin protein are involved in obvious differences of conformation contacts. This result suggests that the binding pocket of inhibitors (LQQ and AP9) and the binding interface of CDK6 to the Vcyclin protein play a key role in the function of CDK6. The analyses of FELs reveal that the binding pocket and the T-loop of CDK6 have disordered states. The results from principal component analysis (PCA) indicate that the binding of the Vcyclin protein affects the fluctuation behavior of the T-loop in CDK6. Our QM/MM-GBSA calculations suggest that the binding ability of LQQ to CDK6 is stronger than AP9 with or without the binding of the Vcyclin protein. Interaction networks of inhibitors with CDK6 were analyzed and the results reveal that LQQ contributes more hydrogen binding interactions (HBIs) and hot interaction spots with CDK6. In addition, the binding pocket endures flexibility changes from opening to closing states and the Vcyclin protein plays an important role in the stabilizing conformation of the T-loop. We anticipate that this work could provide useful information for further understanding the function of CDK6 and developing new promising inhibitors targeting CDK6.
Synthesis of Unsymmetrically Condensed Benzo- and Thienotriazologermoles
Authors: Wang Cong-Huan , Adachi Yohei , Ohshita Joji
Published: June 2024

Germoles and siloles unsymmetrically condensed with heteroaromatic units are attracting much interest. In this study, compounds containing a triazologermole core unit condensed with a benzene or thiophene ring were prepared. Thienotriazologermole was subjected to bromination to obtain the bromide, which underwent transformation via the palladium-catalyzed Stille coupling reaction to form triphenylamine-substituted thienotriazolegermole, with an effective extension of conjugation. The electronic states and properties of these triazologermole derivatives are discussed on the basis of optical and electrochemical measurements and density functional theory calculations. Triphenylamine-substituted thienotriazolegermole showed clear solvatochromic properties in photoluminescence measurements, suggesting that intramolecular charge transfer occurs at the photo-excited state. This clearly indicates that the triazologermole unit is useful as an acceptor of donor–acceptor compounds. The potential application of triphenylamine-substituted thienotriazolegermole as a sensing material was also explored.
Defects in Nitrogen-Doped ZnO Nanoparticles and Their Effect on Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Deep Raj , Yoshida Toshiyuki , Fujita Yasuhisa
Published: June 2024

In this study, the effect of defects on the acceptor properties of nitrogen-doped ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) was investigated through the fabrication of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Nitrogen-doped ZnO NPs were synthesized by an arc discharge in-gas evaporation method and post-annealed at 800 °C in an oxygen and nitrogen atmosphere. The annealed ZnO NPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. It was found that the annealing of nitrogen-doped ZnO NPs in a nitrogen environment increased the number of zinc vacancies, while annealing in an oxygen environment increased the number of oxygen vacancies due to nitrogen desorption. The output characteristics of LEDs fabricated with oxygen-annealed NPs were degraded, while those with nitrogen-annealed NPs were significantly improved. From these results, the contribution of zinc vacancies to acceptor formation in ZnO NPs was confirmed for the first time in actual pn junction devices.
The Janus Structure of Graphene Oxide and Its Large-Size Conductive Film Strip Pattern
Authors: Yi Lu , Chen Xiangnan , Su Heng , Zhang Chaocan
Published: June 2024

In this paper, the oxidation–exfoliation process of graphite is studied experimentally by the mixed-solvent method, the oxidation–exfoliation process of graphite is simulated theoretically, and it is found that Graphene Oxide (GO) is a Janus structure with inconsistent oxidation on both surfaces; hydrophilic on one side and hydrophobic on the other side. This layer structure and layer spacing are due to the inconsistent oxidation on both sides which changes with the polarity of different solvent mixtures. We used a two-phase system of benzyl alcohol and water, as well as controlling the polarity of the surface of the substrate, to achieve (using a mixed solution of GO which has a selectivity more inclined to the oil phase when the aqueous phase is present) the preparation of reduced graphene oxide patterns. We also used a complex solution of hydrogen iodide and a sodium–iodide complex solution for secondary reduction to enhance its conductivity to 8653 S/m.
Choline—An Underappreciated Component of a Mother-to-Be’s Diet
Authors: Dymek Agnieszka , Oleksy Łukasz , Stolarczyk Artur , Bartosiewicz Anna
Published: June 2024

The nutritional status of the mother-to-be has a key impact on the proper development of the fetus. Although all nutrients are important for the developing baby, recent research indicates the importance of adequate choline intake during the periconceptional period, pregnancy, and lactation. Choline plays a key role in the biosynthesis of cell membranes, supporting liver function, neurotransmission, brain development, and DNA and histone methylation. Choline participates in the formation of a child’s nervous system, supports its cognitive development, and reduces the risk of neural tube defects. The human body is incapable of producing sufficient choline to meet its needs; therefore, it must be obtained from the diet. Current data indicate that most women in their reproductive years do not achieve the recommended daily intake of choline. The presented narrative review indicates the importance of educating mothers-to-be and thereby increasing their awareness of the effects of choline on maternal and child health, which can lead to a more aware and healthy pregnancy and proper child development.
Cell Culture Evaluation Hints Widely Available HIV Drugs Are Primed for Success if Repurposed for HTLV-1 Prevention
Authors: Kalemera Mphatso D. , Maher Allison K. , Dominguez-Villar Margarita , Maertens Goedele N.
Published: June 2024

With an estimated 10 million people infected, the deltaretrovirus human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is the second most prevalent pathogenic retrovirus in humans after HIV-1. Like HIV-1, HTLV-1 overwhelmingly persists in a host via a reservoir of latently infected CD4+ T cells. Although most patients are asymptomatic, HTLV-1-associated pathologies are often debilitating and include adult T-cell leukaemia/lymphoma (ATLL), which presents in mature adulthood and is associated with poor prognosis with short overall survival despite treatment. Curiously, the strongest indicator for the development of ATLL is the acquisition of HTLV-1 through breastfeeding. There are no therapeutic or preventative regimens for HTLV-1. However, antiretrovirals (ARVs), which target the essential retrovirus enzymes, have been developed for and transformed HIV therapy. As the architectures of retroviral enzyme active sites are highly conserved, some HIV-specific compounds are active against HTLV-1. Here, we expand on our work, which showed that integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) and some nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) block HTLV-1 transmission in cell culture. Specifically, we find that dolutegravir, the INSTI currently recommended as the basis of all new combination antiretroviral therapy prescriptions, and the latest prodrug formula of the NRTI tenofovir, tenofovir alafenamide, also potently inhibit HTLV-1 infection. Our results, if replicated in a clinical setting, could see transmission rates of HTLV-1 and future caseloads of HTLV-1-associated pathologies like ATLL dramatically cut via the simple repurposing of already widely available HIV pills in HTLV-1 endemic areas. Considering our findings with the old medical saying “it is better to prevent than cure”, we highly recommend the inclusion of INSTIs and tenofovir prodrugs in upcoming HTLV-1 clinical trials as potential prophylactics.
In Vitro Assessment of 177Lu-Labeled Trastuzumab-Targeted Mesoporous Carbon@Silica Nanostructure for the Treatment of HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Tunçel Ayça , Maschauer Simone , Prante Olaf , Yurt Fatma
Published: June 2024

This study assessed the effectiveness of a trastuzumab-targeted 177Lu-labeled mesoporous Carbon@Silica nanostructure (DOTA@TRA/MC@Si) for HER2-positive breast cancer treatment, focusing on its uptake, internalization, and efflux in breast cancer cells. The synthesized PEI-MC@Si nanocomposite was reacted with DOTA-NHS-ester, confirmed by the Arsenazo(III) assay. Following this, TRA was conjugated to the DOTA@PEI-MC@Si for targeting. DOTA@PEI-MC@Si and DOTA@TRA/MC@Si nanocomposites were labeled with 177Lu, and their efficacy was evaluated through in vitro radiolabeling experiments. According to the results, the DOTA@TRA/MC@Si nanocomposite was successfully labeled with 177Lu, yielding a radiochemical yield of 93.0 ± 2.4%. In vitro studies revealed a higher uptake of the [177Lu]Lu-DOTA@TRA/MC@Si nanocomposite in HER2-positive SK-BR-3 cells (44.0 ± 4.6% after 24 h) compared to MDA-MB-231 cells (21.0 ± 2.3%). The IC50 values for TRA-dependent uptake in the SK-BR-3 and BT-474 cells were 0.9 µM and 1.3 µM, respectively, indicating affinity toward HER-2 receptor-expressing cells. The lipophilic distribution coefficients of the radiolabeled nanocomposites were determined to be 1.7 ± 0.3 for [177Lu]Lu-DOTA@TRA/MC@Si and 1.5 ± 0.2 for [177Lu]Lu-DOTA@PEI-MC@Si, suggesting sufficient passive transport through the cell membrane and increased accumulation in target tissues. The [177Lu]Lu-DOTA@TRA/MC@Si nanocomposite showed an uptake into HER2-positive cell lines, marking a valuable step toward the development of a nanoparticle-based therapeutic agent for an improved treatment strategy for HER2-positive breast cancer.
Potential Role of Phytochemicals as Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Receptor (GLP-1R) Agonists in the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Abiola Julianah Ore , Oluyemi Ayoola Abidemi , Idowu Olajumoke Tolulope , Oyinloye Oluwatoyin Mary , Ubah Chukwudi Sunday , Owolabi Olutunmise Victoria , Somade Oluwatobi T. , Onikanni Sunday Amos , Ajiboye Basiru Olaitan , Osunsanmi Foluso Oluwagbemiga , Nash Oyekanmi , Omotuyi Olaposi Idowu , Oyinloye Babatunji Emmanuel
Published: June 2024

Currently, there is no known cure for diabetes. Different pharmaceutical therapies have been approved for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), some are in clinical trials and they have been classified according to their route or mechanism of action. Insulin types, sulfonylureas, biguanides, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, thiazolidinediones, meglitinides, sodium–glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitors, and incretin-dependent therapies (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists: GLP-1R, and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors: DPP-4). Although some of the currently available drugs are effective in the management of T2DM, the side effects resulting from prolonged use of these drugs remain a serious challenge. GLP-1R agonists are currently the preferred medications to include when oral metformin alone is insufficient to manage T2DM. Medicinal plants now play prominent roles in the management of various diseases globally because they are readily available and affordable as well as having limited and transient side effects. Recently, studies have reported the ability of phytochemicals to activate glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R), acting as an agonist just like the GLP-1R agonist with beneficial effects in the management of T2DM. Consequently, we propose that careful exploration of phytochemicals for the development of novel therapeutic candidates as GLP-1R agonists will be a welcome breakthrough in the management of T2DM and the co-morbidities associated with T2DM.
Optimal Scanning Pattern for Initial Free-Space Optical-Link Alignment
Authors: Skryja Petr , Barcik Peter
Published: June 2024

Since free-space optical links (especially fully photonic ones) are very challenging to accurately align; scanning algorithms are used for the initial search and alignment of the transceivers. The initial alignment aims to intercept the optical beam so that it hits a position-sensitive detector. However, this operation can be very time-consuming (depending on the system parameters, such as transceiver parameters, distance between transceivers, divergence of the transmitter, angle of view of the receiver, etc.). A spiral scan is used as the most widespread pattern for scanning. This article examines the effects of system parameters (e.g., global navigation satellite systems and compass accuracy) on the angular area of uncertainty that must be scanned to find the optical beam. Furthermore, several types of spiral pattern are compared depending on the time of the scan execution and the required number of points for scanning the given uncertainty area. The cut hexagonal spiral scan achieved the best results as it required 18.1% less time than the common spiral scan for the presented transceiver.
Multi-Objective Optimization of a Two-Stage Helical Gearbox with Second Stage Double Gear-Sets Using TOPSIS Method
Authors: Dinh Van-Thanh , Tran Huu-Danh , Bui Thanh-Danh , Vu Duc-Binh , Vu Duong , Vu Ngoc-Pi , Truong Thi-Thu-Huong
Published: June 2024

The multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method was applied in a novel way in this study to the multi-objective optimization problem (MOOP) of designing a two-stage helical gearbox with double gear-sets in the second stage. Finding the best fundamental components to increase gearbox efficiency and decrease gearbox cross-section area was the aim of this study. Three main design factors were chosen for investigation in this work: the first stage gear ratio and the first and second stage coefficients of wheel face width (CWFW). Phase 1 solves the single-objective optimization problem to reduce the gap between variable levels, and phase 2 solves the MOOP to determine the optimal critical design factors. This additionally splits the MOOP into two phases. Additionally, the TOPSIS method was used as an MCDM approach to address the multi-objective optimization issue, and the entropy approach was used to compute the weight criteria. In this study, gearbox efficiency is calculated by considering power losses during idle motion. The multi-objective optimization of a helical gearbox with second stage double gear-sets is addressed using the TOPSIS technique for the first time.
Semantic-Aware Fusion Network Based on Super-Resolution
Authors: Xu Lingfeng , Zou Qiang
Published: June 2024

The aim of infrared and visible image fusion is to generate a fused image that not only contains salient targets and rich texture details, but also facilitates high-level vision tasks. However, due to the hardware limitations of digital cameras and other devices, there are more low-resolution images in the existing datasets, and low-resolution images are often accompanied by the problem of losing details and structural information. At the same time, existing fusion algorithms focus too much on the visual quality of the fused images, while ignoring the requirements of high-level vision tasks. To address the above challenges, in this paper, we skillfully unite the super-resolution network, fusion network and segmentation network, and propose a super-resolution-based semantic-aware fusion network. First, we design a super-resolution network based on a multi-branch hybrid attention module (MHAM), which aims to enhance the quality and details of the source image, enabling the fusion network to integrate the features of the source image more accurately. Then, a comprehensive information extraction module (STDC) is designed in the fusion network to enhance the network’s ability to extract finer-grained complementary information from the source image. Finally, the fusion network and segmentation network are jointly trained to utilize semantic loss to guide the semantic information back to the fusion network, which effectively improves the performance of the fused images on high-level vision tasks. Extensive experiments show that our method is more effective than other state-of-the-art image fusion methods. In particular, our fused images not only have excellent visual perception effects, but also help to improve the performance of high-level vision tasks.
Construction and Application of Energy Footprint Model for Digital Twin Workshop Oriented to Low-Carbon Operation
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhuang Cunbo , Tian Ying , Yao Mengqi
Published: June 2024

To address the difficulty of accurately characterizing the fluctuations in equipment energy consumption and the dynamic evolution of whole energy consumption in low-carbon workshops, a low-carbon-operation-oriented construction method of the energy footprint model (EFM) for a digital twin workshop (DTW) is proposed. With a focus on considering the fluctuations in equipment energy consumption and the correlation between multiple pieces of equipment at the workshop production process level (CBMEatWPPL), the EFM of a DTW is obtained to characterize the dynamic evolution of whole energy consumption in the workshop. Taking a production unit as a case, on the one hand, an EFM of the production unit is constructed, which achieved the characterization and visualization of the fluctuations in equipment energy consumption and the dynamic evolution of whole energy consumption in the production unit; on the other hand, based on the EFM, an objective function of workshop energy consumption is established, which is combined with the tool life, robot motion stability, and production time to formulate a multi-objective optimization function. The bee colony algorithm is adopted to solve the multi-objective optimization function, achieving collaborative optimization of cross-equipment process parameters and effectively reducing energy consumption in the production unit. The effectiveness of the proposed method and constructed EFM is demonstrated from the above two aspects.
Solidification Mechanism of Bayer Red Mud under the Action of Calcium Hydroxide
Authors: Song Zhiwei , Ke Guoju , Qin Pengju , Han Suli , Guo Xiuhua , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: June 2024

Because of the strong alkalinity of red mud, it is difficult to recycle, and the long-term accumulation of red mud causes environmental pollution. The study shows that the solidification characteristics of bayer red mud (RM) under the action of Ca(OH)2 (CH) are obvious. The mechanical properties of Bayer RM paste with different amounts of CH at different ages were tested. The strength of RMCH gradually increases with the increase in CH content and age, reaching a turning point in strength at 26.4% content of CH, with the highest strength at 28 days, reaching 2.73 MPa. The solidification products were characterized by XRD, FTIR, TG-DTG, and SEM-EDS. The results show that under the action of CH, the main solidification products of RM are C-(A)-S-H, hemicarboaluminate, and monocarboaluminate. In the solidification process, hydroxysodalite and faujasite-Na react with CH to generate C-S-H, Al(OH)4−, and Na+, then react to generate hemicarboaluminate, monocarboaluminate and C-(A)-S-H, among which hemicarboaluminate is transformed into monocarboaluminate in the presence of calcite, and further monocarboaluminate decomposes to generate calcite. It provides a basis for the study of the interaction mechanism between a single substance and RM and provides a research basis for the sustainable utilization of red mud.
Spatial Distribution Characteristics of Fugitive Road Dust Emissions from a Transportation Hub City (Jinan) in China and Their Impact on the Atmosphere in 2020
Authors: Li Xiangyang , Wang Nana , Qu Xinyue , Jiang Baodong
Published: June 2024

Road silt loading (sL) directly affects the fugitive road dust (FRD) emission factor, which is an important parameter in the study of FRD emissions. In this study, an improved collection method combined with the AP−42 method was newly developed to estimate the sL of asphalt roads in Jinan, China. The characteristics of sL in Jinan followed the order National highway (NH) > Branch road (BR) > Provincial highway (PH) > Country highway (CH) > Minor arterial (MiA) > Major arterial (MaA) > Urban expressway (UE) with 3.9 ± 2.5, 3.9 ± 1.9, 3.8 ± 2.8, 3.8 ± 0.9, 2.1 ± 1.4, 1.7 ± 1.2, and 1.4 ± 1.2 g/m2, respectively. The size orders of PM2.5 and PM10 emission factors are consistent with total suspended particulate (TSP). The characteristics of the TSP emission factor of FRD followed the order NH > PH > CH > Expressway (EW) > MiA > BR > MaA > UE with 27.3, 23.4, 19.4, 13.7, 7.7, 7.4, 6.2, and 3.0 g/VKT (vehicle kilometers traveled), respectively. The annual emissions of TSP, PM10, and PM2.5 from FRD in Jinan in 2020 were about 985.2, 209.8, and 57.8 kt, respectively. Laiwu, Jiyang, and Licheng districts show the top three TSP emissions of FRD; the sum of their emissions accounts for 44.7% of the TSP emissions from FRD in Jinan. TSP emissions from municipal roads and administrative roads accounted for about 29.2% and 70.8% of the total emissions in Jinan, respectively, of which emissions from MiA accounted for the largest proportion of TSP emissions from municipal roads, contributing about 37.9%, while TSP emissions from NH made the largest contribution to TSP emissions from administrative roads, with a contribution of about 35.8%. Based on Monte Carlo simulation results using Crystal Ball, the uncertainty range of the emission inventory of FRD in Jinan ranged from −79.9 to 151.8%. In 2020, about 985,200 tons of road particulate matter in Jinan City entered the atmosphere, having an adverse effect on air quality and human health.
Assessing the Impact of Urban Expansion on the Urban Environment in Riyadh City (2000–2022) Using Geospatial Techniques
Authors: Alajizah Shaykhah Mohammed , Altuwaijri Hamad Ahmed
Published: June 2024

The assessment of the urban environment is a crucial area of interest for the international community, particularly for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Achieving environmental sustainability is among the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Riyadh has recently witnessed urban expansion due to population growth, which can cause negative environmental effects unless this growth is accompanied by the development of appropriate environmental regulations and controls. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the city of Riyadh’s urban environment and its relationship to urban expansion over time. The Thermal Environmental Index (TEI), consisting of five indicators (vegetation index, urban index, moisture index, dry index, and temperature index) was constructed utilizing geospatial techniques. Pearson’s correlation analysis was performed to determine the relationship between urban expansion and urban environmental conditions. The main results show that the size of Riyadh’s urban clusters doubled by 2022, increasing by 106% compared to in 2000. The results also show that, in 2000, 2013, and 2022, areas of poor environmental conditions were mainly distributed in urban areas, whereas areas with excellent and good environmental conditions were located outside of urban areas in the northern and western parts of Riyadh. Areas with good environmental conditions continued to decline, whereas areas poor environmental conditions increased from 4%, or 240 km2, in 2000 to 11% in 2022, reaching 658 km2. The correlation analysis clearly showed a very strong relationship between urban expansion and the deterioration in urban environmental conditions.
The Groundwater Management in the Mexico Megacity Peri-Urban Interface
Authors: Ríos-Sánchez Karen Ivon , Chamizo-Checa Silvia , Galindo-Castillo Eric , Acevedo-Sandoval Otilio Arturo , González-Ramírez César Abelardo , Hernández-Flores María de la Luz , Otazo-Sánchez Elena María
Published: June 2024

Megacities boost peri-urban socioeconomic development but fulfill their high natural resource demands by overexploitation, yielding irreversible environmental damage in surroundings that turn into sacrifice zones. This study reports the effects on the Cuautitlán-Pachuca Valley, the Mexico City main expansion zone at the northeast of the metropolitan area on the Central Mexico plateau, the trend scenarios from 2020 to 2050, and the actions to mitigate the growing water demand that will worsen its aquifer overexploitation. We designed a conceptual archetype to apply the Water Evaluation and Planning System (W.E.A.P.) mathematical model calibrated with 2013–2014 data to calculate groundwater volume demand in future scenarios. The demand output for the international airport and agriculture was less than 5%. The local climate change effect up to 2050 will slightly reduce the infiltration. The most crucial water demand increase (195% in 2050) is due to the population and industrial growth of the Mexico City northern municipalities (89% of the total groundwater extraction volume), and the aquifer will have a notable −2192.3 hm3 accumulated deficit in 2050, while urban sprawl will decrease water infiltration by 2.3%. Mitigation scenarios such as rainwater harvesting may reduce the urban water supply only by 9%, and a leak cutback will do so by 24%, which is still insufficient to achieve sustainable water management in the future. These outcomes emphasize the need to consider other actions, such as importing water from near aquifers and treating wastewater reuse to meet the future water demand.
Enhancing Water Ecosystem Services Using Environmental Zoning in Land Use Planning
Authors: Anjinho Phelipe da Silva , Barbosa Mariana Abibi Guimarães Araujo , Peponi Angeliki , Duarte Gonçalo , Branco Paulo , Ferreira Maria Teresa , Mauad Frederico Fábio
Published: June 2024

Land use and land cover (LULC) changes alter the structure and functioning of natural ecosystems, impacting the potential and flow of ecosystem services. Ecological restoration projects aiming to enhance native vegetation have proven effective in mitigating the impacts of LULC changes on ecosystem services. A key element in implementing these projects has been identifying priority areas for restoration, considering that resources allocated to such projects are often limited. This study proposes a novel methodological framework to identify priority areas for restoration and guide LULC planning to increase the provision of water ecosystem services (WESs) in a watershed in southeastern Brazil. To do so, we combined biophysical models and multicriteria analysis to identify priority areas for ecological restoration, propose environmental zoning for the study area, and quantify the effects of LULC changes and of a planned LULC scenario (implemented environmental zoning) on WES indicators. Previous LULC changes, from 1985 to 2019, have resulted in a nearly 20% increase in annual surface runoff, a 50% increase in sediment export, a 22% increase in total nitrogen (TN) export, and a 53% increase in total phosphorus (TP) export. Simultaneously, they reduced the provision of WESs (baseflow −27%, TN retention −10%, and TP retention −16%), except for sediment retention, which increased by 35% during the analyzed period. The planned LULC scenario successfully increased the provision of WESs while reducing surface runoff and nutrient and sediment exports. The methodology employed in this study proved to be effective in guiding LULC planning for improving WES. The obtained results provide a scientific foundation for guiding the implementation of WES conservation policies in the studied watershed. This method is perceived to be applicable to other watersheds.
CO2 Capture Capacity Measurement Using Multitemporal Analysis and Biophysical Variables in a Tropical Humid Forest in the Colombian Andes
Authors: Vega Lina Patricia , Garcia Diego Felipe , Sierra-Parada Ronal , Pirazan Iván
Published: June 2024

This study analyzed the CO2 capture potential for the Parque Natural Regional Serrania de las Quinchas buffer area in Colombia. For this purpose, multitemporal analysis for land covering for the years 1989, 2000, 2006, 2011, 2017 and 2021 was performed using the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) for each cover and land cover (LC) methodology. In the same way, aboveground biomass (AGB) was measured for representative parcels by measuring tree diameters and heights and applying adequate allometric models; carbon content in soils was measured too. The results showed that carbon content in soils is higher than that in aboveground biomass. Average values for the tree parcels were above 2 times the value recorded for average tropical humid forests, and one of them had a value 7 times this value. A very interesting potential for existing forest recovery was found for this area. Strategies for this include the development of sustainable practices, land use management, biodiversity preservation and the participation and leading of the local communities.
Tools and Frameworks for Sustainable Business Model Innovation for German Steel, Cement, and Chemical Industries
Authors: Kolasch Hannes , Mais Franziska
Published: June 2024

In the decarbonization of the steel, cement, and chemical industries in Germany, green hydrogen is expected to play a crucial role. The utilization of green hydrogen in the production processes of said industries requires organizations to modify their business model, requiring sustainable business model innovation (SBMI). Numerous tools and frameworks that support organizations in the process of SBMI have been proposed in the literature in recent years. However, the applicability of these tools and frameworks for steel, cement, and chemical companies that intend to utilize green hydrogen to produce their goods remains unexplored. This paper aims to assess the suitability of SBMI tools and frameworks for steel, cement, and chemical companies planning to use green hydrogen in their production. It conducts a systematic literature review on SBMI tools and frameworks, reviews current green hydrogen projects in these industries, and evaluates the identified tools and frameworks using an evaluation matrix. Based on the evaluation, the Cambridge Business Model Innovation Process (CBMIP) was identified as the most suitable SBMI framework.
Sustainable Value-Sharing Mechanisms of the Industrial Internet of Things Platforms: A Case Study of Haier’s Service-Oriented Transformation
Authors: Shi Xiaojie , Zhang Yufeng , Wang Zhuquan
Published: June 2024

Ensuring fairness and equity in value distribution is crucial for the sustainability of platform ecosystems. However, existing approaches to distributing benefits among cooperative entities often find it difficult to accurately assess each stakeholder’s contributions. This paper tackles this challenge through a case study of the Haier COSMOPlat IIoT platform. By analyzing its value creation and value distribution processes, the research uncovers how platform enterprises can overcome existing limitations by quantifying and revealing intangible customer relationships alongside financial metrics. This revised value-sharing mechanism encourages a shift from “post-event value-sharing” to “mid-event adjustment”, promoting a fair and equitable profit distribution framework that motivates stakeholders toward sustainable value co-creation.
Use of Social Media in Disaster Management: Challenges and Strategies
Authors: Seneviratne Krisanthi , Nadeeshani Malka , Senaratne Sepani , Perera Srinath
Published: June 2024

Studies on social media (SM) and disaster management (DM) have mainly focused on the adaptation, application, and use of SM in each stage of DM. With the widespread availability and use of SM, the effective utilisation of SM in DM is impeded by various challenges but not yet comprehensively researched. Therefore, this paper aims to identify the challenges as well as the strategies to overcome the challenges and categorises them into a classified model. This study adopts a systematic literature review to present and analyse the challenges and strategies for using SM in DM. Utilising prominent databases, 72 publications were carefully selected and analysed qualitatively using content analysis. The findings revealed four key challenges to its users: the spread of misinformation; insufficient human resources to manage SM use; the lack of trust in information and authorities; and the poor information quality and content of messages. This study identified several strategies to overcome challenges, which can be classified into three sectors of the SM community: individuals, organisations, and SM companies. These findings contribute to enhancing the effective utilisation of SM in DM by community practitioners. Furthermore, this study provides insight into the current status of knowledge and identifies the research gaps around SM in DM for future research.
Dynamical Analysis and Synchronization of Complex Network Dynamic Systems under Continuous-Time
Authors: Yang Rui , Tian Huaigu , Wang Zhen , Wang Wei , Zhang Yang
Published: June 2024

In multilayer complex networks, the uncertainty in node states leads to intricate behaviors. It is, therefore, of great importance to be able to estimate the states of target nodes in these systems, both for theoretical advancements and practical applications. This paper introduces a state observer-based approach for the state estimation of such networks, focusing specifically on a class of complex dynamic networks with nodes that correspond one-to-one. Initially, a chaotic system is employed to model the dynamics of each node and highlight the essential state components for analysis and derivation. A network state observer is then constructed using a unique diagonal matrix, which underpins the driver and response-layer networks. By integrating control theory and stability function analysis, the effectiveness of the observer in achieving synchronization between complex dynamic networks and target systems is confirmed. Additionally, the efficacy and precision of the proposed method are validated through simulation.
A Knowledge-Guided Multi-Objective Shuffled Frog Leaping Algorithm for Dynamic Multi-Depot Multi-Trip Vehicle Routing Problem
Authors: Zhao Yun , Shen Xiaoning , Ge Zhongpei
Published: June 2024

Optimization algorithms have a wide range of applications in symmetry problems, such as graphs, networks, and pattern recognition. In this paper, a dynamic periodic multi-depot multi-trip vehicle routing model for scheduling test samples is constructed, which considers the differences in testing unit price and testing capacity of various agencies and introduces a cross-depot collaborative transport method. Both the cost and the testing time are minimized by determining the optimal sampling routes and testing agencies, subjecting to the constraints of vehicle capacity, number of vehicles, and delivery time. To solve the model, a knowledge-guided multi-objective shuffled frog leaping algorithm (KMOSFLA) is proposed. KMOSFLA adopts a convertible encoding mechanism to realize the diversified search in different search spaces. Three novel strategies are designed: the population initialization with historical information reuse, the leaping rule based on the greedy crossover and genetic recombination, and the objective-driven enhanced search. Systematic experimental studies are implemented. First, feasibility analyses of the model are carried out, where effectiveness of the cross-depot collaborative transport is validated and sensitivity analyses on two parameters (vehicle capacity and proportion of the third-party testing agencies) are performed. Then, the proposed algorithm KMOSFLA is compared with five state-of-the-art algorithms. Experimental results indicate that KMOSFLA can provide a set of non-dominated schedules with lower cost and shorter testing time in each scheduling period, which provides a reference for the dispatcher to make a final decision.
Improving the Robustness of the Theil-Sen Estimator Using a Simple Heuristic-Based Modification
Authors: Bal Artur
Published: June 2024

One of the most widely used robust regression methods for solving simple linear regression problems is the Theil-Sen (TS) estimator. This estimator has some notable advantages; however, it does not belong to the most robust estimation methods (called high-breakdown estimators) and is prone to outliers whose distribution is highly asymmetric with respect to the correct data points. This paper presents a modification of the TS estimator, the Robustified Theil-Sen (RTS) estimator. The new method uses a heuristic-based selection procedure to reduce the number of initial estimates of the regression function parameters computed with at least one outlier, thereby improving the regression results. The use of this heuristic procedure only slightly increases the computational time required for using the RTS estimator compared to the TS estimator. Preliminary results of two numerical experiments presented in the paper show that the RTS estimator outperforms other comparable estimators, i.e., the TS estimator and the repeated median estimator, in terms of robustness. The results presented also suggest that the breakpoint value (which is a measure of the robustness of estimators) of the RTS estimator is higher than the breakpoint value of the TS estimator and equal to the breakpoint value of the high-breakpoint estimators.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in the Aquatic Environment and Bivalves: The State of the Art
Authors: Pires Pedro , Pereira André M. P. T. , Pena Angelina , Silva Liliana J. G.
Published: June 2024

In recent years, contaminants of emerging concern have been reported in several environmental matrices due to advances in analytical methodologies. These anthropogenic micropollutants are detected at residual levels, representing an ecotoxicological threat to aquatic ecosystems. In particular, the pharmacotherapeutic group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) is one of the most prescribed and used, as well as one of the most frequently detected in the aquatic environment. Bivalves have several benefits as a foodstuff, and also as an environment bioindicator species. Therefore, they are regarded as an ideal tool to assess this issue from both ecotoxicological and food safety perspectives. Thus, the control of these residues in bivalves is extremely important to safeguard environmental health, also ensuring food safety and public health. This paper aims to review NSAIDs in bivalves, observing their consumption, physicochemical characteristics, and mechanisms of action; their environmental occurrence in the aquatic environment and aquatic biota; and their effects on the ecosystem and the existent legal framework. A review of the analytical methodologies for the determination of NSAIDs in bivalves is also presented.
The Use of Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies (bNAbs) in HIV-1 Treatment and Prevention
Authors: Thavarajah Jannifer Jasmin , Hønge Bo Langhoff , Wejse Christian Morberg
Published: June 2024

Background: Although antiretroviral therapy (ART) effectively halts disease progression in HIV infection, the complete eradication of the virus remains elusive. Additionally, challenges such as long-term ART toxicity, drug resistance, and the demanding regimen of daily and lifelong adherence required by ART highlight the imperative need for alternative therapeutic and preventative approaches. In recent years, broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) have emerged as promising candidates, offering potential for therapeutic, preventative, and possibly curative interventions against HIV infection. Objective: This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the passive immunization of bNAbs in HIV-1-infected individuals. Main findings: Recent findings from clinical trials have highlighted the potential of bNAbs in the treatment, prevention, and quest for an HIV-1 cure. While monotherapy with a single bNAb is insufficient in maintaining viral suppression and preventing viral escape, ultimately leading to viral rebound, combination therapy with potent, non-overlapping epitope-targeting bNAbs have demonstrated prolonged viral suppression and delayed time to rebound by effectively restricting the emergence of escape mutations, albeit largely in individuals with bNAb-sensitive strains. Additionally, passive immunization with bNAb has provided a “proof of concept” for antibody-mediated prevention against HIV-1 acquisition, although complete prevention has not been obtained. Therefore, further research on the use of bNAbs in HIV-1 treatment and prevention remains imperative.
Human Cytomegalovirus Dysregulates Cellular Dual-Specificity Tyrosine Phosphorylation-Regulated Kinases and Sonic Hedgehog Pathway Proteins in Neural Astrocyte and Placental Models
Authors: Egilmezer Ece , Hamilton Stuart T. , Lauw Glen , Follett Jasmine , Sonntag Eric , Schütz Martin , Marschall Manfred , Rawlinson William D.
Published: June 2024

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the leading non-genetic cause of congenital malformation in developed countries, causing significant fetal injury, and in some cases fetal death. The pathogenetic mechanisms through which this host-specific virus infects then damages both the placenta and the fetal brain are currently ill-defined. We investigated the CMV modulation of key signaling pathway proteins for these organs including dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinases (DYRK) and Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) pathway proteins using human first trimester placental trophoblast (TEV-1) cells, primary human astrocyte (NHA) brain cells, and CMV-infected human placental tissue. Immunofluorescence demonstrated the accumulation and re-localization of SHH proteins in CMV-infected TEV-1 cells with Gli2, Ulk3, and Shh re-localizing to the CMV cytoplasmic virion assembly complex (VAC). In CMV-infected NHA cells, DYRK1A re-localized to the VAC and DYRK1B re-localized to the CMV nuclear replication compartments, and the SHH proteins re-localized with a similar pattern as was observed in TEV-1 cells. Western blot analysis in CMV-infected TEV-1 cells showed the upregulated expression of Rb, Ulk3, and Shh, but not Gli2. In CMV-infected NHA cells, there was an upregulation of DYRK1A, DYRK1B, Gli2, Rb, Ulk3, and Shh. These in vitro monoculture findings are consistent with patterns of protein upregulation and re-localization observed in naturally infected placental tissue and CMV-infected ex vivo placental explant histocultures. This study reveals CMV-induced changes in proteins critical for fetal development, and identifies new potential targets for CMV therapeutic development.