bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards an Efficient Remote Sensing Image Compression Network with Visual State Space Model
Authors: Wang Yongqiang , Liang Feng , Wang Shang , Chen Hang , Cao Qi , Fu Haisheng , Chen Zhenjiao
Published: January 2025

In the past few years, deep learning has achieved remarkable advancements in the area of image compression. Remote sensing image compression networks focus on enhancing the similarity between the input and reconstructed images, effectively reducing the storage and bandwidth requirements for high-resolution remote sensing images. As the network’s effective receptive field (ERF) expands, it can capture more feature information across the remote sensing images, thereby reducing spatial redundancy and improving compression efficiency. However, the majority of these learned image compression (LIC) techniques are primarily CNN-based and transformer-based, often failing to balance the global ERF and computational complexity optimally. To alleviate this issue, we propose a learned remote sensing image compression network with visual state space model named VMIC to achieve a better trade-off between computational complexity and performance. Specifically, instead of stacking small convolution kernels or heavy self-attention mechanisms, we employ a 2D-bidirectional selective scan mechanism. Every element within the feature map aggregates data from multiple spatial positions, establishing a globally effective receptive field with linear computational complexity. We extend it to an omni-selective scan for the global-spatial correlations within our Channel and Global Context Entropy Model (CGCM), enabling the integration of spatial and channel priors to minimize redundancy across slices. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves superior trade-off between rate-distortion performance and complexity. Furthermore, in comparison to traditional codecs and learned image compression algorithms, our model achieves BD-rate reductions of −4.48%, −9.80% over the state-of-the-art VTM on the AID and NWPU VHR-10 datasets, respectively, as well as −6.73% and −7.93% on the panchromatic and multispectral images of the WorldView-3 remote sensing dataset.
Developing Strategies for Carbon Neutrality Through Restoration of Ecological Spatial Networks in the Thal Desert, Punjab
Authors: Nawaz Tauqeer , Ansari Muhammad Gohar Ismail , Yu Qiang , Avirmed Buyanbaatar , Iftikhar Farhan , Yu Wang , Zhao Jikai , Khan Muhammad Anas , Khan Muhammad Mudassar
Published: January 2025

Carbon neutrality is an important goal for addressing global warming. It can be achieved by increasing carbon storage and reducing carbon emissions. Vegetation plays a key role in storing carbon, but it is often lost or damaged, especially in areas affected by desertification. Therefore, restoring vegetation in these areas is crucial. Using advanced techniques to improve ecosystem structure can support ecological processes, and enhance soil and environmental conditions, encourage vegetation growth, and boost carbon storage effectively. This study focuses on optimizing Ecological Spatial Networks (ESNs) for revitalization and regional development, employing advanced techniques such as the MCR model for corridor construction, spatial analysis, and Gephi for mapping topological attributes. Various ecological and topological metrics were used to evaluate network performance, while the EFCT model was applied to optimize the ESN and maximize carbon sinks. In the Thal Desert, ecological source patches (ESPs) were divided into four modularity levels (15.6% to 49.54%) and five communities. The northeastern and southwestern regions showed higher ecological functionality but lower connectivity, while the central region exhibited the reverse. To enhance the ESN structure, 27 patches and 51 corridors were added to 76 existing patches, including 56 forest and 20 water/wetland patches, using the EFCT model. The optimized ESN resulted in a 14.97% improvement in carbon sink capacity compared to the unoptimized structure, primarily due to better functioning of forest and wetland areas. Enhanced connectivity between components contributed to a more resilient and stable ESN, supporting both ecological sustainability and carbon sequestration.
Diagnosis of Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia and Hydrometra in a Pet Goat
Authors: Nishimura Ryo , Yamashita Masamichi , Murahata Yusuke , Sunden Yuji , Tsuka Takeshi
Published: January 2025

This case report includes the clinical utility of ultrasonography, intrauterine endoscopy (hysteroscopy), and computed tomography (CT) in the preoperative evaluation of hydrometra in a pet goat, which did not completely heal with medical therapy using prostaglandin F2α. Ultrasonography revealed an anechoic liquid within the uterine lumen on a percutaneous scan. CT identified an enlarged uterus and right ovary with a cystic follicle-like structure. Hysteroscopy revealed an accumulation of clear fluids within the uterine lumen and a corrugated, thickened endometrial structure. Plasma estradiol-17β (E2) concentrations were found to be higher (41.9 pg/mL) than normal levels, whereas plasma progesterone (P4) concentrations were at normal levels (0.55 ng/mL) during the follicular phase. Histopathological examination of the endometrium removed by biopsy revealed accelerated mucosal secretion with hyperplasia. Ovariohysterectomy was performed 14 days after the initial diagnosis. Immediately before surgery, plasma E2 and P4 levels were 23.4 pg/mL and 18.34 ng/mL, respectively. Histopathological examination of the surgically removed endometrium revealed cystic endometrial hyperplasia in the uterus and follicular cysts in the ovary. Based on these results, the patient was histologically diagnosed with hydrometra, including cystic endometrial hyperplasia, possibly induced by follicular cysts in the ovary. Ultrasonography and intrauterine endoscopy enabled clear visualization of the secreted mucosa within the uterine lumen, whereas CT enabled an effective visualization of an ovary with a cystic follicle structure. Preoperative observations based not only on ultrasonography but also on evaluations, particularly combined with CT and endoscopy, are useful in diagnosing hydrometra and determining the need for ovariohysterectomy in goats.
Electromigration Separation of Lithium Isotopes with the Benzo-12-Crown-4-Ether (B12C4) System
Authors: Zhao Zhiyu , Mao Lianjing , Zheng Tianyu , Li Xiao , Ye Chunsen , Zhang Pengrui , Li Huifang , Sun Wei , Sun Jinhe
Published: January 2025

Enriched lithium isotopes (6Li and 7Li) are essential in the nuclear energy industry, where 6Li is bombarded with neutrons to produce tritium for fusion reactions, while 7Li is used as a core coolant and pH regulator. Separation of 6Li and 7Li by electromigration is a promising method for producing enriched lithium isotopes that fulfill industrial needs. In this work, based on a previously proposed biphasic system electromigration routine, a three-stage system of ‘LiCl aqueous solution (anolyte)|B12C4-[EMIm][NTf2] organic solution|NH4Cl aqueous solution (catholyte)’ was constructed and the rules of lithium isotope separation and lithium-ion migration investigated. It was shown that the isotope enrichment effect of the catholyte was greatly affected by the experimental conditions, while that of the organic solution was less affected. As the B12C4 concentration increased, enhancement of 7Li enrichment in the catholyte and 6Li enrichment in the organic solution was observed, and α(C/O) and α(O/A) reached 0.975 and 1.018 at B12C4 of 0.5 mol/L. With the increase in current, migration time, and LiCl concentration, the isotope that was enriched in the catholyte trended from 7Li to 6Li (about 6 mA, 12 h or LiCl of 5 mol/L). Taking lithium-ion transport efficiency and lithium isotope separation effect into consideration together, a current of at least 6 mA, duration of at least 12 h, LiCl concentration of at least 1 mol/L and B12C4 concentration of 0.2 mol/L are suggested for the electromigration process. The work provides an important reference for system construction and experimental design of a biphasic electromigration separation method, which is expected to be an industrial alternative because of its environmental protection and high efficiency.
LLM Agents for Smart City Management: Enhancing Decision Support Through Multi-Agent AI Systems
Authors: Kalyuzhnaya Anna , Mityagin Sergey , Lutsenko Elizaveta , Getmanov Andrey , Aksenkin Yaroslav , Fatkhiev Kamil , Fedorin Kirill , Nikitin Nikolay O. , Chichkova Natalia , Vorona Vladimir , Boukhanovsky Alexander
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the implementation of LLM agents in smart city management, leveraging both the inherent language processing abilities of LLMs and the distributed problem solving capabilities of multi-agent systems for the improvement of urban decision making processes. A multi-agent system architecture combines LLMs with existing urban information systems to process complex queries and generate contextually relevant responses for urban planning and management. The research is focused on three main hypotheses testing: (1) LLM agents’ capability for effective routing and processing diverse urban queries, (2) the effectiveness of Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) technology in improving response accuracy when working with local knowledge and regulations, and (3) the impact of integrating LLM agents with existing urban information systems. Our experimental results, based on a comprehensive validation dataset of 150 question–answer pairs, demonstrate significant improvements in decision support capabilities. The multi-agent system achieved pipeline selection accuracy of 94–99% across different models, while the integration of RAG technology improved response accuracy by 17% for strategic development queries and 55% for service accessibility questions. The combined use of document databases and service APIs resulted in the highest performance metrics (G-Eval scores of 0.68–0.74) compared to standalone LLM responses (0.30–0.38). Using St. Petersburg’s Digital Urban Platform as a testbed, we demonstrate the practical applicability of this approach to create integrated city management systems with support complex urban decision making processes. This research contributes to the growing field of AI-enhanced urban management by providing empirical evidence of LLM agents’ effectiveness in processing heterogeneous urban data and supporting strategic planning decisions. Our findings suggest that LLM-based multi-agent systems can significantly enhance the efficiency and accuracy of urban decision making while maintaining high relevance in responses.
Violence Perpetrated by Learners and Management Towards Early-Career Educators in South African Township Schools
Authors: Matemane Tryphina Matlale , Chauke Thulani Andrew
Published: January 2025

The reality in South Africa is that township school environments are not safe for early-career educators. According to South Africa’s Constitution in the Bill of Rights, every learner has the right to a free, reputable education. Although educators are obligated to facilitate this free education, the right to education does not supersede the right to safety because, without protection, more rights will be violated. This study aimed to explore forms of violence perpetrated by school management teams and learners against early-career educators in township schools in Soshanguve, South Africa. A qualitative research method was used to access deeper information on the topic. Clarke’s six steps of thematic analysis were used to analyse the data. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather information. The major findings of this study revealed four forms of violence experienced by early-career educators, which included physical and verbal violence, financial violence and sexual violence. This study recommends that parents should make a habit of checking their children’s schoolwork. This will hold learners accountable for their work. Parents should minimise engaging in conflict in the presence of their children, as this can have adverse emotional and psychological effects on them. They should provide a supportive environment for their children, which can foster a positive parent–child relationship. In addition, the community should play a proactive role in combating substance abuse by ensuring that substances are not accessible to children.
The Influence of the Melting and Casting Parameters on the Surface Quality of Deep-Drawn Steel Coils
Authors: Šolc Marek , Markulik Štefan , Małysa Tomasz
Published: January 2025

Industrial production today increasingly prioritizes sustainability, emphasizing not only efficiency but also minimizing environmental and social impacts. Quality control is key in steel production. The continuous casting process is crucial, as early defect detection can lower costs and prevent unnecessary material use, thereby conserving energy and raw materials. Eliminating defects early reduces the need for costly reworking, saving resources and reducing equipment wear. Additionally, this defect prevention supports efficiency in later steps, like rolling, benefiting overall energy and material consumption. During this research, we identified several parameters whose influence we analyzed on the surface quality of deep-drawn steel. The research confirmed that, for example, the casting speed has a significant influence on the occurrence of surface defects, while, for example, the final bubbling had no statistically significant effect on the surface quality. From a sustainability perspective, monitoring and optimizing key production parameters, like the casting speed, is essential, as improper speeds can cause surface defects that risk the functionality of the final products. By optimizing these parameters, it is possible not only to reduce the risk of product failure but also to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the entire production process, reducing waste and fostering a more considerate approach to natural resources.
The Impact of Public Employment Services Efficiency on the Urban Rural Income Gap and Its Spatial Spillover Effect
Authors: Xiong Bin , Li Jia
Published: January 2025

Urban rural integration is an indispensable prerequisite for achieving the objective of regional sustainable development, and exploring the impact of public employment services (PES) efficiency on the urban rural income gap(URIG) and its spatial spillover effect is of great significance for promoting integration in the new era. This study uses provincial panel data from 2011 to 2022 to explore in depth the impact of PES efficiency on the URIG and its spatial spillover effects by measuring and analyzing PES efficiency and its regional differences and dynamic evolution. It is found that the improvement of PES efficiency can significantly reduce the URIG, and the impact of PES efficiency on the URIG has spatial spillover effects. Therefore, in the future, the system of PES should be improved, the bias of PES should be reversed and the model of PES should be innovated in order to reduce the URIG.
Strategies for Multigeneration in Residential Energy Systems: An Optimization Approach
Authors: Delgado Danielle Bandeira Mello , Costa e Silva Neto Iderval , Carvalho Monica
Published: January 2025

With the energy transition, energy supply trends indicate more autonomy for the final consumer, with a more decentralized, intelligent, and low-carbon scenario. Multigeneration technologies offer substantial socioeconomic and environmental advantages by enhancing the efficient utilization of energy resources. The main objective of this study is to develop a flexible, easy-to-use tool for the optimization of multigeneration systems (configuration and operation), focused on obtaining minimal annual costs. C++ was used for the implementation of the optimization problem, which was solved using IBM’s ILOG CPLEX Optimization Studio solver. The case study is a residential consumer center, with energy demands encompassing electricity (including electric vehicles), sanitary hot water, and coolth (air conditioning). The optimal economic solution indicates the installation of 102 photovoltaic modules and the use of biomass to produce hot water. When compared with a conventional solution, where all energy demands are met conventionally (no renewables nor cogeneration), the optimal economic solution reduced annual costs by 27% despite presenting capital costs 42% higher.
Effects and Determinants of Implementing Digital Customer Service Tools in Polish SMEs
Authors: Szwajca Danuta , Rydzewska Alina
Published: January 2025

The article aims to identify the effects and determinants of implementing digital customer service tools in Polish SMEs in terms of digital customer requirements. Quantitative research was conducted among Polish SMEs using a survey. The following statistical methods were used to analyze the survey data: Dunn’s post hoc tests, ANOVA Kruskal–Wallis test, Kendall’s rank correlation coefficient, and Multivariate Adaptive Regression Splines (MARSplines). Research results showed that Polish SMEs demonstrating better preparedness to serve digital customers achieve higher financial results, an increase in the rapidity and agility of customer service, increased customer satisfaction, and improved image. In addition, they gain sustainability benefits in the form of reduced emissions of hazardous substances or waste, recycling of waste, and reduced consumption of water, electricity, and other raw materials. The main determinants of digital transformation in customer service are the type of business (Polish Classification of Activities—PKD), the age of the company, and the educational level of its manager. The article contributes to promoting digitization among SME managers and motivates them to support customer service with digital tools. The identified effects and determinants provide practical guidance and encourage the implementation of digital technologies to meet the demands of digital customers. Using this approach, SMEs can increase their satisfaction and loyalty, resulting in better financial performance and improved competitiveness. This article identifies the economic and sustainability effects and determinants of implementing digital customer service tools in Polish SMEs in the context of digital customer requirements. This study has an original approach to the issue of digital transformation in the SME sector in Poland.
A Study on Sustainability Indicators for Energy Companies in Viet Nam
Authors: Tsai Jung-Fa , Lee Ruey-Chu , Tran Dinh-Hieu , Hoang Minh-Chau , Lin Ming-Hua
Published: January 2025

The energy sector is a cornerstone of Viet Nam’s economic growth, providing critical contributions to development and employment. However, ensuring its long-term sustainability remains a pressing challenge. This study leverages the United Nations’ ESG framework to develop a comprehensive structure for sustainable management indicators tailored to Viet Nam’s energy industry. Through expert interviews and systematic analysis using the modified Delphi and DEMATEL methods, the study identified “Cost Management” as the most critical sustainability indicator, influencing other key areas. Additionally, “Innovation Management”, “Renewable Energy”, “Vocational Training”, and “Human Capital Development” emerged as pivotal for driving sustainability. These findings underscore the importance of aligning sustainability practices with operational efficiency and innovation. The study highlights the urgent need for energy companies to adopt targeted solutions such as cost optimization, investments in renewable technologies, and workforce development to foster sustainable growth. By offering actionable insights and a prioritized framework, this research provides energy companies and policymakers with a practical roadmap to enhance Viet Nam’s energy sustainability and support its economic recovery post-COVID-19.
Short-Term Residential Load Forecasting Based on the Fusion of Customer Load Uncertainty Feature Extraction and Meteorological Factors
Authors: Cao Wenzhi , Liu Houdun , Zhang Xiangzhi , Zeng Yangyan , Ling Xiao
Published: January 2025

With the proliferation of distributed energy resources, advanced metering infrastructure, and advanced communication technologies, the grid is transforming into a flexible, intelligent, and collaborative system. Short-term electric load forecasting for individual residential customers is playing an increasingly important role in the operation and planning of the future grid. Predicting the electrical load of individual households is more challenging with higher uncertainty and volatility at the household level compared to the total electrical load at the feeder and regional levels. The previous research results show that the accuracy of forecasting using machine learning and a single deep learning model is far from adequate and there is still room for improvement.
Inflation Rate Determinants in Saudi Arabia: A Non-Linear ARDL Approach
Authors: Albahouth Abdulrahman A.
Published: January 2025

Inflation across the globe after the COVID-19 pandemic has shown some persistence and followed an upward trend well above inflation targets and beyond normal historical movements. The Saudi inflation rate followed similar patterns of global trends, surging significantly and persisting well above the pre-pandemic levels. This paper examines determinants of inflation in Saudi Arabia, considering internal and external factors, and evaluates whether inflation responds to common global shocks or is largely influenced by macroeconomic variabilities within the economy. Findings and analyses in this paper are based on both conventional Auto Regressive Distributive Lag (ARDL) and non-linear ARDL (NARDL) models using quarterly level data to capture short-run dynamics and long-run relationships between inflation rate and examined macroeconomics variables, namely oil prices real effective exchange rate, money supply, and government spending. Reported results reveal an asymmetrical relationship between oil price fluctuations and inflation rate volatilities in Saudi Arabia. Inclines in oil prices lead to higher inflation, while the decline in oil prices does not alleviate inflationary pressures, and these results are consistent both in the short-run and the long run. The influence of pass-through real effective exchange rate is also evident in transmitting global shocks to local consumer prices in the long run, where a depreciation in real effective exchange rate results in a higher cost of imported goods, exerting additional stresses on local inflation. For factors within the economy, findings indicate a substantial long-term inflationary effect of money supply on the inflation rate in Saudi Arabia, where a one percent increase in the money supply led to more than one-third increase in inflation in the long run. On the other hand, while the influence of government spending on inflation was statistically significant, its impact is less pronounced in explaining the inflation rate’s variations. The analysis reveals that the evaluated variables exert a stronger influence on inflation in the long run. This underscores the critical need for policymakers to consider the cumulative effects of these determinants when formulating effective long-term inflation stabilization policies.
Retention of Copper and Zinc from Traffic Area Runoff by Topsoil of Vegetated Infiltration Swales Amended with Recycled Demolition Waste
Authors: Knoll Sebastian , Moritz Janna , Stinshoff Philipp , Helmreich Brigitte
Published: January 2025

Infiltration swales are a prospective key component of water-sensitive urban planning. The utilization of appropriate soil amendments is intended to facilitate the retention of pollutants from the stormwater runoff of traffic areas. Little is known about the possibility of utilizing processed construction and demolition waste (CDW) as an amendment to improve pollutant retention. We conducted batch and field tests to investigate (i) the leaching of metals and other elements from soil substrates containing CDW and (ii) their retention potential for copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) when charged with real traffic area runoff. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the chemical interactions, we (iii) employed sequential extractions using an optimized protocol from treated and untreated soil substrates. In batch tests, the potential of vanadium leaching from technosols amended with brick-dominated CDW was apparent. When charged with traffic area runoff, the retentions of Cu and Zn in the technosols were comparable to those of the control soil without CDW. However, the simulation of high rainfall intensities reduced Cu and Zn retention in the technosols and the control. The results from the subsequent sequential extraction of Cu and Zn imply shifts in the chemical binding in the technosols compared to the control.
Circular Economy for Construction and Demolition Waste in the Santiago Metropolitan Region of Chile: A Delphi Analysis
Authors: Véliz Karina D. , Busco Carolina , Walters Jeffrey P. , Esparza Catalina
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the design and implementation of circular economy (CE) strategies for managing construction and demolition waste (CDW) in the Santiago Metropolitan Region of Chile (SMRC). The research aimed to identify key factors influencing the current and future adoption of CE practices for CDW management related to socio-environmental, technical, financial, and strategic-regulatory aspects, employing the Delphi method to gather expert insights. Findings reveal that the lack of knowledge about sustainable practices and the absence of regulatory frameworks for CDW disposal are the most critical barriers to effective CE implementation. The study recommends enhancing public awareness and environmental education through government and school programs, as well as enacting stricter legislation to combat illegal disposal and encourage sustainable practices and valorization of secondary raw materials within companies. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of designing projects that prioritize waste avoidance and the development of infrastructure, technology, and processes for efficient material separation and recycling. The research also highlights potential challenges such as stagnation in the adoption of sustainable practices, skilled labor shortages, and limited research and innovation. It underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to CDW management that integrates socio-environmental, technical, financial, and regulatory dimensions to promote sustainability at both regional and global levels.
Symmetric Point Sets with Few Intersection Numbers in PG(r,q)
Authors: Innamorati Stefano
Published: January 2025

In 1965, H. Retkin and E. Stein defined a symmetric point set as a set of points with the same intersection numbers. In this paper, we perform a detailed analysis of symmetric point sets of the finite projective space which shows that the class of symmetric sets is very broad including caps, two-character sets and transitive sets. We derive necessary conditions for the existence of such sets. Since the most studied sets are caps and two-character sets and not much seems to be known in the general case of sets, which are different from caps, with more than two intersection numbers, by using incidence-preserving group actions, symmetric point sets with few intersection numbers are provided. The results indicate that any finite projective space contains symmetric sets with few intersection numbers.
Bezier Curves and Surfaces with the Generalized α-Bernstein Operator
Authors: Canlı Davut , Şenyurt Süleyman
Published: January 2025

In the field of Computer-Aided Geometric Design (CAGD), a proper model can be achieved depending on certain characteristics of the predefined blending basis functions. The presence of these characteristics ensures the geometric properties necessary for a decent design. The objective of this study, therefore, is to examine the generalized α-Bernstein operator in the context of its potential classification as a novel blending type basis for the construction of Bézier-like curves and surfaces. First, a recursive definition of this basis is provided, along with its unique representation in terms of that for the classical Bernstein operator. Next, following these representations, the characteristics of the basis are discussed, and one shape parameter for α-Bezier curves is defined. In addition, by utilizing the recursive definition of the basis, a de Casteljau-like algorithm is provided such that a subdivision schema can be applied to the construction of the new α-Bezier curves. The parametric continuity constraints for C0, C1, and C2 are also established to join two α-Bezier curves. Finally, a set of cross-sectional engineering surfaces is designed to indicate that the generalized α-Bernstein operator, as a basis, is efficient and easy to implement for forming shape-adjustable designs.
Exploring Fixed-Point Results Using Random Sehgal Contraction in Symmetric Random Cone Metric Spaces with Applications
Authors: Nasir Mohsin , Din Fahim Ud , Ishtiaq Umar , Kočinac Ljubiša D. R. , Popa Ioan-Lucian
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces a new concept of random Sehgal contraction in the setting of random cone metric spaces. We explore the modern advancements of traditional fixed-point theorems in a random setting, elaborating on the Sehgal–Guseman fixed-point theorem within the realm of random cone metric spaces. A significant aspect of our research is the interplay between symmetry and randomness; while symmetry provides a framework for understanding structural properties, randomness introduces complexity, which can lead to unexpected behaviors. Our research provides a deeper understanding of the classical results and incorporates a detailed example to illustrate our findings. In addition, major random fixed-point results are also established, which could be applied to nonlinear random fractional differential equations (FDEs) and integral equations as well as to random boundary value problems (BVPs) related to homogeneous random transverse bars.
Thermal Profile of Accretion Disk Around Black Hole in 4D Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet Gravity
Authors: Kholmuminov Odilbek , Narzilloev Bakhtiyor , Ahmedov Bobomurat
Published: January 2025

In this study, we investigate the properties of a thin accretion disk around a static spherically symmetric black hole in 4D Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet gravity, with an additional coupling constant, α, appearing in the spacetime metric. Using the Novikov–Thorne accretion disk model, we examine the thermal properties of the disk, finding that increasing α reduces the energy, angular momentum, and effective potential of a test particle orbiting the black hole. We demonstrate that α can mimic the spin of a Kerr black hole in general relativity up to a≃ 0.23 M for the maximum value of α. Our analysis of the thermal radiation flux shows that larger α values increase the flux and shift its maximum towards the central black hole, while far from the black hole, the solution recovers the Schwarzschild limit. The impact of α on the radiative efficiency of the disk is weak but can slightly alter it. Assuming black-body radiation, we observe that the disk’s temperature peaks near its inner edge and is higher for larger α values. Lastly, the electromagnetic spectra reveal that the disk’s luminosity is lower in Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet gravity compared to general relativity, with the peak luminosity shifting toward higher frequencies, corresponding to the soft X-ray band as α increases.
The Gaussian-Drude Lens: A Dusty Plasma Model Applicable to Observations Across the Electromagnetic Spectrum
Authors: Rogers Adam
Published: January 2025

When radiation from a background source passes through a cloud of cold plasma, diverging lensing occurs if the source and observer are well-aligned. Unlike gravitational lensing, plasma lensing is dispersive, increasing in strength with wavelength. The Drude model is a generalization of cold plasma, including absorbing dielectric dust described by a complex index of refraction. The Drude lens is only dispersive for wavelengths shorter than the dust characteristic scale (λ≪λd). At sufficient photon energy, the dust particles act like refractive clouds. For longer wavelengths λ≫λd, the optical properties of the Drude lens are constant, unique behavior compared to the predictions of the cold plasma lens. Thus, cold plasma lenses can be distinguished from Drude lenses using multi-band observations. The Drude medium extends the applicability of all previous tools, from gravitational and plasma lensing, to describe scattering phenomena in the X-ray regime.
Isolation and Characterization of H1 Subtype Swine Influenza Viruses Recently Circulating in China
Authors: Yan Minghao , Ma Tianxin , Shi Xiaona , Chen Qin , Li Luzhao , Xu Bangfeng , Pan Xue , Teng Qiaoyang , Yuan Chunxiu , Yan Dawei , Zhang Zhifei , Liu Qinfang , Li Zejun
Published: January 2025

Pigs serve as a mixing vessel for influenza viruses and can independently promote the emergence of pandemic strains in humans. During our surveillance of pig populations from 2021 to 2023 in China, 11 H1 subtype swine influenza viruses (SIVs) were isolated. All viruses were reassortants, possessing internal genes of identical origins (PB2, PB1, PA, NP, M: pdm09/H1N1 origin, NS: North American triple reassortant origin). The H1N1 isolates were all the dominant G4 EA H1N1 viruses in China. Two H1N2 isolates carried early human pdm09/H1N1 HA genes, suggesting a possible pig-to-human transmission route. Mutations that dictate host range specificity were identified in all isolates, a phenomenon which may enhance the affinity to human receptors. These H1 subtype viruses effectively replicated both in vivo and in vitro without prior adaptation and exhibited different pathogenicity and growth characteristics. Some of the H1 viruses were even found to cause lethal infections in mice. Taken together, our study indicates that the H1 subtype SIVs recently circulating in China pose a potential threat to human health and emphasizes the importance of continuing to closely monitor their evolution and spread.
Vaccines in Dermatology—Present and Future: A Review
Authors: Goh Eyan , Chavatte Jean-Marc , Lin Raymond T. P. , Ng Lisa F. P. , Rénia Laurent , Oon Hazel H.
Published: January 2025

Dermatological vaccines have emerged as critical tools in preventing and managing a wide spectrum of skin conditions ranging from infectious diseases to malignancies. By synthesizing evidence from existing literature, this review aims to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity of vaccines used in dermatology, including both approved vaccines and those currently being researched. Vaccines discussed in this paper include those targeting dermatoses and malignancies (e.g., acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis, and melanoma); infectious diseases (e.g., human papillomavirus (HPV); varicella zoster virus (VZV); herpes zoster (HZ); warts; smallpox; mpox (monkeypox); hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD); candidiasis and Group B Streptococcus (GBS); and neglected tropical diseases (e.g., Buruli ulcer, leprosy, and leishmaniasis). Through this review, we aim to provide a detailed understanding of the role of vaccines in dermatology, identify knowledge gaps, and propose areas for future research.
Large Language Models (LLMs) as Traffic Control Systems at Urban Intersections: A New Paradigm
Authors: Masri Sari , Ashqar Huthaifa I. , Elhenawy Mohammed
Published: January 2025

This study introduces a novel approach for traffic control systems by using Large Language Models (LLMs) as traffic controllers. The study utilizes their logical reasoning, scene understanding, and decision-making capabilities to optimize throughput and provide feedback based on traffic conditions in real time. LLMs centralize traditionally disconnected traffic control processes and can integrate traffic data from diverse sources to provide context-aware decisions. LLMs can also deliver tailored outputs using various means such as wireless signals and visuals to drivers, infrastructures, and autonomous vehicles. To evaluate LLMs’ ability as traffic controllers, this study proposed a four-stage methodology. The methodology includes data creation and environment initialization, prompt engineering, conflict identification, and fine-tuning. We simulated multi-lane four-leg intersection scenarios and generated detailed datasets to enable conflict detection using LLMs and Python simulation as a ground truth. We used chain-of-thought prompts to lead LLMs in understanding the context, detecting conflicts, resolving them using traffic rules, and delivering context-sensitive traffic management solutions. We evaluated the performance of GPT-4o-mini, Gemini, and Llama as traffic controllers. Results showed that the fine-tuned GPT-mini achieved 83% accuracy and an F1-score of 0.84. The GPT-4o-mini model exhibited a promising performance in generating actionable traffic management insights, with high ROUGE-L scores across conflict identification of 0.95, decision making of 0.91, priority assignment of 0.94, and waiting time optimization of 0.92. This methodology confirmed LLMs’ benefits as a traffic controller in real-world applications. We demonstrated that LLMs can offer precise recommendations to drivers in real time including yielding, slowing, or stopping based on vehicle dynamics. This study demonstrates LLMs’ transformative potential for traffic control, enhancing efficiency and safety at intersections.
Strength Properties and Water-Blocking Stability of Hydrophobically Modified Silty Clay
Authors: Guo Jiale , Li Xu , Shi Shuo , Wu Yongkang
Published: January 2025

In this study, Qinghai silty clay was hydrophobically modified, and its engineering properties, including water-blocking performance, strength characteristics, and durability, were investigated under varying hydrophobic agent contents and compaction degrees. The findings reveal that: (a) The prepared hydrophobic soil exhibits excellent water repellency, significantly exceeding the threshold for extreme hydrophobicity. When the hydrophobic agent content reaches approximately 13%, the water droplet infiltration time peaks, and the moisture content after immersion remains at a relatively low level. (b) The hydrophobic soil barrier layer effectively blocks the upward migration of groundwater driven by capillary action. In the column test, after 15 days of capillary water action, the water content in the upper soil layer remains nearly unchanged, and the hydrophobic soil layer retains its dryness and excellent water-blocking performance. (c) Under optimal hydrophobic agent content, the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of hydrophobic soil increases by approximately 48% to 68% compared to ordinary soil. Moreover, the strength improvement becomes more significant with higher compaction degrees. (d) Hydrophobic soil is most sensitive to alkaline environments, while its strength reduction rate in acidic and saline environments is slightly higher than in water environments. (e) It is recommended to maintain the hydrophobic agent content between 13% and 15.5% for Qinghai silty clay to achieve a balance between hydrophobicity, strength performance, and economic feasibility.
The Analysis of Hydrometeorological Characteristics in the Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin
Authors: Liu Xiangwei , Li Yilong , Wang Li , Gong Junfu , Sheng Yihua , Li Zhijia
Published: January 2025

Understanding the hydrometeorological processes of the Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin, located on the “Third Pole” Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, is crucial for effective water resource management and climate change adaptation. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the basin’s hydrometeorological characteristics using long-term observational data from six representative stations across the upper, middle, and lower reaches. We examined trends, periodicity, variability, and correlations of key elements—precipitation, temperature, evaporation, and discharge—employing methods such as linear regression, Mann–Kendall tests, wavelet analysis, and Kendall rank correlation coefficient tests. The results indicated that precipitation and discharge exhibited non-significant upward trends, with fluctuations across decades, while temperature showed a significant increase of 0.39 °C per decade, surpassing the national and global rates. Evaporation generally decreased with increasing precipitation; however, at Lazi Station, evaporation significantly increased due to low precipitation and rising temperatures causing decreased relative humidity. Periodic analysis revealed cycles at multiple temporal scales, particularly at 2–5 years, 10 years, and over 20 years. Correlation analysis demonstrated a strong positive relationship between precipitation and discharge, and a negative correlation between evaporation and discharge. The hydrometeorological characteristics are significantly influenced by climatic factors, especially precipitation and temperature, with the warming trend potentially affecting water’s availability and distribution. These findings offer valuable insights for water resource management and highlight the need for continuous monitoring to understand hydrological responses to climatic and anthropogenic changes in this critical region.
The Effect of the Reservoir Regulation Ability on the Water Consumption Rate During the Hydro–Wind–Photovoltaic Integration
Authors: Li Guanghui , Yang Tingxuan , Ma Yiyang , Yang Shutong , Wang Xianxun
Published: January 2025

The combined operation of hydropower and renewable energy impacts the hydropower operation efficiency, which exhibits different effects while the reservoir is deployed various regulation abilities. This study attempts to investigate the effect of reservoir regulation storage on the average daily water consumption rate. A case study of the integration of hydro–wind–photovoltaic located in Western China shows the differences mentioned above and explains the mechanism of the effect on the daily water consumption rate. It was concluded that (1) with increasing penetrations of renewable energy (from 0 to 90%), the daily water consumption rate mostly displays a trend of descent and then ascent; (2) with the increasing regulation ability of the reservoir (from 0.8 to 5.35 × 108 m3), the water consumption rate increases in the dry season but decreases in the flood season; (3) the hydropower output and net water head are two factors that cause the water consumption rate to rise and fall; and (4) a balance point between the net water head rise and the output reduction is pointed out. The findings of this study provide technique support for the research of water utilization efficiency during the renewable energy mix.
Mechanical Properties and Energy Evolution Laws of Rocks Under Freeze–Thaw
Authors: Yue Xiaopeng , Liu Ting , Wen Tao , Jia Wenjun , Wu Yajuan
Published: January 2025

In high-altitude mountainous areas, the phenomenon of rock frost damage under repeated freeze–thaw cycles are pronounced, with the deformation and failure processes of rock often accompanied by energy dissipation. To elucidate the energy evolution mechanism of rocks under freeze–thaw cycles, triaxial compression tests and numerical simulation tests were conducted under different freeze–thaw cycles. Results from indoor tests indicate that successive freeze–thaw cycles deteriorate the mechanical properties of rocks. Compared to conditions without freeze–thaw cycles, after 40 freeze–thaw cycles, the peak stress of the rock decreased by 42.8%, the elastic modulus decreased by 64%, and, with increasing confining pressure, the rate of decrease lessened, indicating that confining pressure can inhibit the decline in the mechanical properties of rocks. As the freeze–thaw cycles increase, the total absorption energy (TAE) of rocks gradually decreases. Meanwhile, with increasing confining pressure, the TAE, elastic strain energy (ESE) and dissipated energy (DE) of rocks all gradually increase. However, as the confining pressure increases, the TAE increases by 781%, the ESE increases by 449%, and the DE increases by 6381%. Numerical simulation results reveal that with an increase in the freeze–thaw cycles, shear failure phenomena gradually decrease while tensile failure phenomena gradually increase. During the compression process, the evolution of internal cracks in rocks demonstrates a trend of slow–steady–rapid development, with the number of cracks produced being positively correlated with the freeze–thaw cycles. The performance can provide valuable insights into the degradation mechanism of the mechanical properties of rocks and failure analysis in high-altitude mountainous areas.
Treatment Performance and Characteristics of Biofilm Carriers in an Aerobic Waterwheel-Driven Rotating Biological Contactor
Authors: Cheng Helai , Li Wenhua , Gong Ziao , Wen Cangxiang , Zhang Chong , Lu Xiwu
Published: January 2025

Rotating biological contactors (RBCs) are widely utilized in aerobic wastewater treatment due to their high stability, efficiency, and ease of maintenance. The choice of disc carrier material for biofilm formation is a critical factor influencing treatment performance. In the context of rural domestic wastewater treatment, the biofilm carriers must balance cost-effectiveness and high efficiency. This study focuses on the aerobic unit of a combined anoxic denitrification–deodorization filter–aerobic RBC system, specifically, the waterwheel-driven aerobic RBC, and evaluates three types of biofilm carrier media: felt, carbon felt, and nonwoven fabric. The study compares their pollutant removal performance and biofilm enrichment characteristics to identify the optimal material. The results indicate that RBCs using nonwoven fabric as the biofilm carrier exhibit superior nitrification efficiency and biocompatibility compared to the other materials, achieving average removal rates of 84.3% for CODCr and 80.5% for ammonia nitrogen. While the addition of nonwoven fabric slightly reduced the driving efficiency of the waterwheel-driven aerobic RBC, it significantly enhanced oxygen transfer efficiency, which explained the enhanced organic degradation and ammonia nitrification. During the biofilm stable phase, the two-stage waterwheel-driven RBC with a nonwoven fabric carrier achieved average CODCr and ammonia nitrogen removal rates of 86.76 ± 0.85% and 92.15 ± 1.49%, respectively. Nonwoven fabric demonstrates significant potential as a biofilm carrier for aerobic rotating biological contactors.
Study of Seepage Laws of Deep Rock Mass Under Different Water Temperatures Based on Porous Media
Authors: Qiu Heming , Zhu Shuyun , Fang Han , Lu Xiangcheng
Published: January 2025

Deep coal mining is faced with high temperature, high seepage pressure, and high ground stress, and there is a complex nonlinear coupling relationship between the temperature of water in deep rock mass and its seepage. Based on the background of deep mining in Zhaolou Coal Mine in Shandong Province, China, the hydraulic conductivity of artificial rock samples with similar materials was tested indoors under different water temperatures of 30~80 °C. On the basis of deep rock samples collected in the field, the hydraulic conductivity has a nonlinear positive correlation with the rise of water temperature. The difference in hydraulic conductivity at the highest and lowest temperatures is two to three times. By means of multi-physics coupling finite element software (COMSOL Multiphysics, COMSOL Inc., Stockholm, Sweden), combined with the actual geological background, the regularity was found to be consistent with the laboratory experiment and further proves that the inlet pressure has no effect on the hydraulic conductivity. Subsequent analyses revealed that the influence of temperature on the seepage field is mainly reflected in the change of fluid kinematic viscosity with temperature, which causes the change in the hydraulic conductivity. According to the formula, the hydraulic conductivity of the rock at 80 °C is 2.31 times higher than its hydraulic conductivity at 30 °C, which is matched by the indoor test results. The engineering performance is that as the temperature of the deep rock body increases, the ability of water to penetrate rocks increases, and the water inflow of the working face increases. The results can be applied to the prevention of water hazard threats in deep coal mining.