bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Pseudomonas sp. En3, an Endophytic Bacterium from Poplar Leaf Endosphere with Plant Growth-Promoting Properties
Authors: Deng Beiyan , Wu Ling , Xiao Hongju , Cheng Qiang
Published: November 2023

Growth-promoting endophytic bacteria possess substantial potential for sustainable agriculture. Here, we isolated an endophytic bacterium, Pseudomonas sp. En3, from the leaf endosphere of Populus tomentosa and demonstrated its significant growth-promoting effects on both poplar and tomato seedlings. The phosphorus solubilization and nitrogen fixation abilities of strain En3 were confirmed via growth experiments on NBRIP and Ashby media, respectively. Salkowski staining and HPLC-MS/MS confirmed that En3 generated indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). The infiltration of En3 into leaf tissues of multiple plants did not induce discernible disease symptoms, and a successful replication of En3 was observed in both poplar and tobacco leaves. Combining Illumina and Nanopore sequencing data, we elucidated that En3 possesses a circular chromosome of 5.35 Mb, exhibiting an average G + C content of 60.45%. The multi-locus sequence analysis (MLSA) and genome average nucleotide identity (ANI) supported that En3 is a novel species of Pseudomonas and constitutes a distinct phylogenetic branch with P. rhizosphaerae and P. coleopterorum. En3 genome annotation analysis revealed the presence of genes associated with nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, sulfur metabolism, siderophore biosynthesis, synthesis of IAA, and ethylene and salicylic acid modulation. The findings suggest that Pseudomonas sp. En3 exhibits significant potential as a biofertilizer for crop and tree cultivation.
Robotic Platform da Vinci Xi Is Feasible and Beneficial in Both Colon and Rectal Surgery in Short-Term Outcome and Recovery
Authors: Huang Yi-Lin , Chen Ming-Cheng , Chiang Feng-Fan
Published: November 2023

Background: The literature discussed colorectal surgery using a robotic platform, which is mainly the previous da Vinci Si system. The role of the da Vinci Xi surgical system remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the benefits and feasibility of using the robot-assisted method in colorectal surgery. Methods: We retrospectively collected 418 patients undergoing minimally invasive colorectal surgery between March 2020 and December 2021, in a single center. Patients were divided into robotic and laparoscopic groups. Primary outcomes were conversion rates to open surgery, complications, and length of stay (LOS). Secondary outcomes were post-operation functional outcomes. Results: A total of 218 patients received colectomy, while 200 patients received rectum resection. No differences were found in the conversion rate in both groups. A lower complication rate (colectomy: 7.5% vs. 23.2%, p = 0.01, rectum resection: 14.1% vs. 28.7%, p = 0.038) and shorter LOS (5 vs. 8 days, p < 0.001) was found in the robotic group. The robotic approach was associated with good functional outcomes in tolerated solid food and the termination of urinary drainage. Conclusions: The new da Vinci Xi system is safe and feasible both for colonic and rectal surgery, with reduced complications. Shorter LOS and reliable short-term outcomes may reflect both better functional recovery and surgical quality when compared to laparoscopic surgery.
Pharmacogenomics of Dementia: Personalizing the Treatment of Cognitive and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms
Authors: Vuic Barbara , Milos Tina , Tudor Lucija , Nikolac Perkovic Matea , Konjevod Marcela , Nedic Erjavec Gordana , Farkas Vladimir , Uzun Suzana , Mimica Ninoslav , Svob Strac Dubravka
Published: November 2023

Dementia is a syndrome of global and progressive deterioration of cognitive skills, especially memory, learning, abstract thinking, and orientation, usually affecting the elderly. The most common forms are Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and other (frontotemporal, Lewy body disease) dementias. The etiology of these multifactorial disorders involves complex interactions of various environmental and (epi)genetic factors and requires multiple forms of pharmacological intervention, including anti-dementia drugs for cognitive impairment, antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics and sedatives for behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, and other drugs for comorbid disorders. The pharmacotherapy of dementia patients has been characterized by a significant interindividual variability in drug response and the development of adverse drug effects. The therapeutic response to currently available drugs is partially effective in only some individuals, with side effects, drug interactions, intolerance, and non-compliance occurring in the majority of dementia patients. Therefore, understanding the genetic basis of a patient’s response to pharmacotherapy might help clinicians select the most effective treatment for dementia while minimizing the likelihood of adverse reactions and drug interactions. Recent advances in pharmacogenomics may contribute to the individualization and optimization of dementia pharmacotherapy by increasing its efficacy and safety via a prediction of clinical outcomes. Thus, it can significantly improve the quality of life in dementia patients.
Estimation of Genetic Diversity between and within Biparental Clones and Full-Sib Families of the Chinese Pine Using SSR Markers
Authors: Guo Shuai , Ji Penghao , Wang Ju , He Yujiao , Zhang Yongxin , Zhang Feng , Yun Yufei , Zhang Guosheng
Published: November 2023

Quantifying the genetic diversity present in plant populations is crucial for the success of selection of elite plants and breeding programs. The population structure and partition of genetic variance within and between plant populations allows inferences about the distribution and extent of variation available in plant breeding populations. The Chinese pine (Pinus tabuliformis Carriere) is a native species that is ecologically and economically important to Northern China. Studying the genetic variation and partition of P. tabuliformis will be invaluable for its efficient utilization. In this study, we selected 21 pairs of SSR primers to estimate the genetic diversity of 35 clones from four populations and 216 progenies from 22 full-sib families of P. tabuliformis. Our results showed that P. tabuliformis was a typical outcrossing plant (FIS = −0.053/−0.165) containing moderately high genetic diversity (He = 0.542/0.605) both for the clone populations and the progenies produced by the clone crosses via controlled pollination. The genetic differentiation between the clones (FST = 0.076) was lower than that between the full-sib progenies (FST = 0.155). Such diverse FST may be promoted by different gene flows (Nm = 3.881/1.546) due to distinct pollination patterns. The clustering methods showed a lack of significant division of the clone populations, with a similar genetic admixture found for each of the clones. However, two groups were found between the full-sib families with genetic admixture between them. The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that the most plentiful genetic variability exists between the cloned individuals (98%) as well as within the full-sib progenies (89%). Such distribution of genetic variation suggests rich internal variance and thus it is feasible to select the elite plants within each population or family. These results provide genetic materials and theoretical guidance for the selection and breeding of the Chinese pine.
Community-Engaged Research (CEnR) to Address Gaps in Chronic Kidney Disease Education among Underserved Latines—The CARE Study
Authors: Diaz-Martinez Janet , Kallus Laura , Levine Harris Michael , Lavernia Frank , Pierre Aydevis Jean , Mancilla Jessica , Barthe Ale , Duran Carlos , Kotzker Wayne , Wagner Eric , Hospital Michelle M.
Published: November 2023

Ensuring equitable chronic kidney disease (CKD) education for Latine patients with low health literacy and low English proficiency stands as a critical challenge, and the “Caridad Awareness and Education” (CARE) initiative represents our ongoing effort to address this imperative issue. In collaboration with twenty-three patients living with CKD, diabetes and/or hypertension and twelve trained Community Health Workers (CHWs) from diverse Latine subgroups, we conducted a research initiative funded by the National Kidney Foundation. Our primary objective was to co-design and test culturally tailored patient education materials (PEMs) for underserved Latine adults at risk for or diagnosed with CKD. We effectively integrated Community-Engaged Research (CEnR) principles with a Human-Centered Design (HCD) approach to create a range of CKD-PEM prototypes in Spanish. Patient preferences for printed educational materials were clear. They favored printed materials that incorporated visual content with concise text over digital, email, texts, or online resources and personalized phone outreach and the involvement of CHWs. Additionally, patients identified their unwavering commitment to their families as a forceful motivator for caring for their kidney health. Currently, a culturally and linguistically tailored CKD flipchart for one-on-one education, led by CHWs, is undergoing a pilot testing phase involving a sample of one hundred Latine patients at risk for or diagnosed with CKD. This innovative approach signifies a commitment to amplifying the insights and expertise of the Latine community afflicted by kidney health disparities, effectively embracing a CEnR to forge meaningful and impactful CKD-PEMs.
Addressing Key Questions in Organoid Models: Who, Where, How, and Why?
Authors: Gómez-Álvarez María , Agustina-Hernández Marcos , Francés-Herrero Emilio , Rodríguez-Eguren Adolfo , Bueno-Fernandez Clara , Cervelló Irene
Published: November 2023

Organoids are three-dimensional cellular structures designed to recreate the biological characteristics of the body’s native tissues and organs in vitro. There has been a recent surge in studies utilizing organoids due to their distinct advantages over traditional two-dimensional in vitro approaches. However, there is no consensus on how to define organoids. This literature review aims to clarify the concept of organoids and address the four fundamental questions pertaining to organoid models: (i) What constitutes organoids?—The cellular material. (ii) Where do organoids grow?—The extracellular scaffold. (iii) How are organoids maintained in vitro?—Via the culture media. (iv) Why are organoids suitable in vitro models?—They represent reproducible, stable, and scalable models for biological applications. Finally, this review provides an update on the organoid models employed within the female reproductive tract, underscoring their relevance in both basic biology and clinical applications.
Ferromagnetic Fluctuations in the Heavily Overdoped Regime of Single-Layer High-Tc Cuprate Superconductors
Authors: Adachi Tadashi , Kurashima Koshi , Kawamata Takayuki , Noji Takashi , Nakajima Satoru , Koike Yoji
Published: November 2023

To investigate proposed ferromagnetic fluctuations in the so-called single-layer Bi-2201 and La-214 high-Tc cuprates, we performed magnetization and electrical resistivity measurements using single-layer Tl-2201 cuprates Tl2Ba2CuO6+δ and La-214 La2−xSrxCuO4 in the heavily overdoped regime. Magnetization of Tl2Ba2CuO6+δ and La2−xSrxCuO4 exhibited the tendency to be saturated in high magnetic fields at low temperatures, suggesting the precursor behavior toward the formation of a ferromagnetic order. It was found that the power of temperature n obtained from the temperature dependence of the electrical resistivity is ~4/3 and ~5/3 for Bi-2201 and La2−xSrxCuO4, respectively, and is ~4/3 at high temperatures and ~5/3 at low temperatures in Tl2Ba2CuO6+δ. These results suggest that two- and three-dimensional ferromagnetic fluctuations exist in Bi-2201 and La2−xSrxCuO4, respectively. In Tl2Ba2CuO6+δ, it is suggested that the dimension of ferromagnetic fluctuations is two at high temperatures and three at low temperatures, respectively. The dimensionality of ferromagnetic fluctuations is understood in terms of the dimensionality of the crystal structure and the bonding of atoms in the blocking layer.
Optical Properties of Amorphous Carbon Thin Films Fabricated Using a High-Energy-Impulse Magnetron-Sputtering Technique
Authors: Skowronski Lukasz , Chodun Rafal , Trzcinski Marek , Zdunek Krzysztof
Published: November 2023

This paper reports the results of amorphous carbon thin films fabricated by using the gas-impulse-injection magnetron-sputtering method and differing the accelerating voltage (1.0–1.4 kV). The obtained layers were investigated using Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XRD), and spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE). The analysis of the Raman and XPS spectra point to the significant content of sp3 hybridization in the synthesized materials (above 54–73%). The refractive index of the films is very high—above 2.45 in the infrared spectral range. The band-gap energy (determined using the inversed-logarithmic-derivative method) depends on the discharging voltage and is in the range from 1.58 eV (785 nm) to 2.45 eV (506 nm). Based on the obtained results, we have elaborated a model explaining the a-C layers’ formation process.
Static Strength of Tubular K-Joints Reinforced with Outer Plates under Axial Loads at Ambient and Fire Conditions
Authors: Nassiraei Hossein , Yara Amin
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the effect of the outer reinforcing plate on the initial stiffness, ultimate strength, and failure mechanisms of tubular K-joints under axial load at ambient and different fire conditions is evaluated. In the first phase, a finite element (FE) model was generated and verified by 13 experimental tests. In the next step, 1057 numerical models were generated. In these models, the welds joining the chord and braces were modeled. Using the produced FE models, the structural behavior under ambient and different elevated temperatures (20, 150, 300, 450, 600, 750, and 900 °C) was evaluated. The results showed that the outer plate can enhance the ultimate strength by up to 319% under fire conditions. Despite the considerable effect of the outer plate on the stiffness, ultimate strength, failure modes, and the frequent usage of the K-joints in tubular structures, the static response of the reinforced K-joints at ambient and elevated temperatures has not been studied. Hence, according to the extensive parametric studies, a highly precise practical design equation has been proposed based on the yield volume model for determining the ultimate strength.
Investigating the Photovoltaic Performance in ABO3 Structures via the Nonlinear Bond Model for an Arbitrary Incoming Light Polarization
Authors: Hardhienata Hendradi , Ramdhani Indra , Alatas Husin , Faci Salim , Birowosuto Muhammad Danang
Published: November 2023

ABO3 structures commonly known as perovskite are of high importance in advanced material science due to their interesting optical properties. Applications range from tunable band gaps, high absorption coefficients, and versatile electronic properties, making them ideal for solar cells to light-emitting diodes and even photodetectors. In this work, we present, for the first time, a nonlinear phenomenological bond model analysis of second harmonic generation (SHG) in tetragonal ABO3 with arbitrary input light polarization. We study the material symmetry and explore the strength of the nonlinear generalized third-rank tensorial elements, which can be exploited to produce a high SHG response if the incoming light polarization is correctly selected. We found that the calculated SHG intensity profile aligns well with existing experimental data. Additionally, as the incoming light polarization varies, we observed a smooth shift in the SHG intensity peak along with changes in the number of peaks. These observations confirm the results from existing rotational anisotropy SHG experiments. In addition, we show how spatial dispersion can contribute to the total SHG intensity. Our work highlights the possibility of studying relatively complex structures, such as ABO3, with minimal fitting parameters due to the power of the effective bond vector structure, enabling the introduction of an effective SHG hyperpolarizability rather than a full evaluation of the irreducible SHG tensor by group theoretical analysis. Such a simplification may well lead to a better understanding of the nonlinear properties in these classes of material and, in turn, can improve our understanding of the photovoltaic performance in ABO3 structures.
Pillar Growth by Focused Electron Beam-Induced Deposition Using a Bimetallic Precursor as Model System: High-Energy Fragmentation vs. Low-Energy Decomposition
Authors: Winkler Robert , Brugger-Hatzl Michele , Porrati Fabrizio , Kuhness David , Mairhofer Thomas , Seewald Lukas M. , Kothleitner Gerald , Huth Michael , Plank Harald , Barth Sven
Published: November 2023

Electron-induced fragmentation of the HFeCo3(CO)12 precursor allows direct-write fabrication of 3D nanostructures with metallic contents of up to >95 at %. While microstructure and composition determine the physical and functional properties of focused electron beam-induced deposits, they also provide fundamental insights into the decomposition process of precursors, as elaborated in this study based on EDX and TEM. The results provide solid information suggesting that different dominant fragmentation channels are active in single-spot growth processes for pillar formation. The use of the single source precursor provides a unique insight into high- and low-energy fragmentation channels being active in the same deposit formation process.
Analysis of Post-COVID-19 Guillain–Barré Syndrome over a Period of One Year in the University Hospital of Split (Croatia)
Authors: Dunkić Niko , Nazlić Marija , Dunkić Valerija , Bilić Ivica
Published: November 2023

The virus SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) is capable of attacking the nervous system in several ways and leading to neurological diseases such as GBS (Guillain–Barré syndrome) through the resulting neurotropism and immune response. The aim of this study is to show the relationship between Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and GBS and to better understand the clinical symptoms to prevent poor outcomes. Data from 15 patients were extracted from the Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Split, Croatia, for the year 2021. The age of the patients ranged from 26 to 89 years, of whom 27% were women. Sixty seven percent of all GBS patients recovered from COVID-19 infection, whereas post-vaccinal polyradiculoneuritis was detected in 6%. Forty four percent of the patients who developed GBS had a severe form of COVID-19 infection. Forty percent of patients were treated with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG), followed by therapeutic plasma exchange (PLEX) in 27%. After the therapy, improvement was observed in 13 patients, while two patients died. The results suggest that SARS-CoV-2 triggers GBS because it follows a similar pattern of infection as the other viral and bacterial agents that contribute to the onset of GBS. There is no evidence that prior infection with COVID-19 worsens the clinical presentation of GBS.
1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Provides Benefits in Vitiligo Based on Modulation of CD8+ T Cell Glycolysis and Function
Authors: Wei Yujia , Wang Tingmei , Nie Xiaoqi , Shi Zeqi , Liu Zhong , Zeng Ying , Pan Ronghua , Zhang Ri , Deng Yunhua , Li Dong
Published: November 2023

Vitiligo is a common autoimmune skin disease caused by autoreactive CD8+ T cells. The diverse effects of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ [1,25(OH)₂D₃] on immune cell metabolism and proliferation have made it an interesting candidate as a supporting therapeutic option in various autoimmune diseases. This study aimed to elucidate the immunomodulatory effects of 1,25(OH)₂D₃ in vitiligo. Cross-sectional relationships between serum 1,25(OH)₂D₃ levels and disease characteristics were investigated in 327 patients with vitiligo. The immunomodulatory and therapeutic effects of 1,25(OH)₂D₃ were then investigated in vivo and in vitro, respectively. We found that 1,25(OH)₂D₃ deficiency was associated with hyperactivity of CD8+ T cells in the vitiligo cohort. In addition, 1,25(OH)₂D₃ suppressed glycolysis by activating the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting the proliferation, cytotoxicity and aberrant activation of CD8+ T cells. Finally, the in vivo administration of 1,25(OH)₂D₃ to melanocyte-associated vitiligo (MAV) mice reduced the infiltration and function of CD8+ T cells and promoted repigmentation. In conclusion, 1,25(OH)₂D₃ may serve as an essential biomarker of the progression and severity of vitiligo. The modulation of autoreactive CD8+ T cell function and glycolysis by 1,25(OH)₂D₃ may be a novel approach for treating vitiligo.
Iron Levels and Markers of Inflammation in a Population of Adults with Severe Obesity, a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Laudisio Daniela , de Alteriis Giulia , Vetrani Claudia , Aprano Sara , Pugliese Gabriella , Zumbolo Francesca , Colao Annamaria , Savastano Silvia
Published: November 2023

Low-grade chronic inflammation linked to obesity can lead to alterations in biomarkers of iron status. The aim of this study was to investigate the primary determinant of serum iron levels among anthropometric measurements, body fat, and serum biomarkers of low-grade chronic inflammation in a group of adult individuals with severe obesity. We enrolled 114 individuals (84 females; 30 males) aged 40.96 ± 12.54 years. Weight and body mass index (BMI) were 121.20 ± 22.33 kg and 44.94 ± 7.29 kg/m2, respectively. Some 30% of individuals had class-II obesity (BMI ≥ 35 ≤ 39.9 kg/m2) and 70% had class-III obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2). A weak, albeit significant, inverse correlation was found between serum iron levels and c-reactive protein (CRP) (r = −0.259, p = 0.008), fibrinogen (r = −0.261, p = 0.006), BMI (r = −0.186, p = 0.04), waist circumference (WC) (r = −0.265, p = 0.004), and fat mass % (r = −0.285, p = 0.003). With multiple linear regression analysis including CRP, fibrinogen, BMI, WC, and fat mass % as independent variables and serum iron levels as dependent variable, WC was entered in the first step (p = 0.001), which was followed by fat mass % (p = 0.047) and CRP (p = 0.047). Grouping the individuals according to the interquartile range of BMI, WC, and fat mass % (Q1–Q4), the lowest serum iron levels were found in Q4 groups of WC and fat mass % (p = 0.02), while no significant differences were found between groups in BMI quartiles. In conclusion, in our study, population serum iron levels were inversely associated with BMI, visceral obesity, fat mass %, CRP, and fibrinogen, but WC was the major negative predictor of serum iron level. These results supported the fact that visceral distribution of body fat, more than obesity per se, was associated with low serum iron levels in adult individuals with severe obesity.
Application of a Core-Shell Structure Nano Filtration Control Additive in Salt-Resistant Clay-Free Water-Based Drilling Fluid
Authors: Wang Gang , Li Wanjun , Qiu Shixin , Liu Jitong , Ou Zhiting , Li Xiaogang , Ji Fei , Zhang Liang , Liu Shanshan , Yang Lili , Jiang Guancheng
Published: November 2023

When drilling into a reservoir, the drilling fluid containing bentonite is prone to solid phase invasion, causing serious damage to the reservoir, and the conventional API barite suspension stability is poor, which makes it easy to cause sedimentation and blockage. Therefore, in order to avoid accidents, we use ultrafine barite to obtain a good suspension stability. More importantly, the method of modifying zwitterionic polymers on the surface of nano-silica is used to develop a temperature-resistant and salt-resistant fluid loss reducer FATG with a core-shell structure, and it is applied to ultra-fine clay-free water-based drilling fluid (WBDF). The results show that the filtration loss of clay-free drilling fluid containing FATG can be reduced to 8.2 mL, and AV can be reduced to 22 mPa·s. Although the viscosity is reduced, FATG can reduce the filter loss by forming a dense mud cake. The clay-free drilling fluid system obtained by further adding sepiolite can reduce the filtration loss to 3.8 mL. After aging at 220 °C for 15 d, it still has significant salt tolerance, the filtration loss is only 9 mL, the viscosity does not change much, a thinner and denser mud cake is formed, and the viscosity coefficient of the mud cake is smaller. The linear expansion test and permeability recovery evaluation were carried out. The hydration expansion inhibition rate of bentonite can reach 72.5%, and the permeability recovery rate can reach 77.9%, which can meet the long-term drilling fluid circulation work in the actual drilling process. This study can provide guidance for technical research in related fields such as reservoir protection.
A Dexamethasone-Loaded Polymeric Electrospun Construct as a Tubular Cardiovascular Implant
Authors: Kyriakou Stavroula , Acosta Sergio , El Maachi Ikram , Rütten Stephan , Jockenhoevel Stefan
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular tissue engineering is providing many solutions to cardiovascular diseases. The complex disease demands necessitating tissue-engineered constructs with enhanced functionality. In this study, we are presenting the production of a dexamethasone (DEX)-loaded electrospun tubular polymeric poly(l-lactide) (PLA) or poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) construct which contains iPSC-CMs (induced pluripotent stem cell cardiomyocytes), HUVSMCs (human umbilical vein smooth muscle cells), and HUVECs (human umbilical vein endothelial cells) embedded in fibrin gel. The electrospun tube diameter was calculated, as well as the DEX release for 50 days for 2 different DEX concentrations. Furthermore, we investigated the influence of the polymer composition and concentration on the function of the fibrin gels by imaging and quantification of CD31, alpha-smooth muscle actin (αSMA), collagen I (col I), sarcomeric alpha actinin (SAA), and Connexin 43 (Cx43). We evaluated the cytotoxicity and cell proliferation of HUVECs and HUVSMCs cultivated in PLA and PLGA polymeric sheets. The immunohistochemistry results showed efficient iPSC-CM marker expression, while the HUVEC toxicity was higher than the respective HUVSMC value. In total, our study emphasizes the combination of fibrin gel and electrospinning in a functionalized construct, which includes three cell types and provides useful insights of the DEX release and cytotoxicity in a tissue engineering perspective.
Spatial 3D Printing of Continuous Fiber-Reinforced Composite Multilayer Truss Structures with Controllable Structural Performance
Authors: Zhang Daokang , Tian Xiaoyong , Zhou Yanli , Wang Qingrui , Yan Wanquan , Akmal Zia Ali , Wu Lingling , Li Dichen
Published: November 2023

Continuous fiber-reinforced composite truss structures have broad application prospects in aerospace engineering owing to their high structural bearing efficiency and multifunctional applications. This paper presents the design and fabrication of multilayer truss structures with controlled mechanical properties based on continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite 3D printing. Continuous fiber composite pyramid trusses fabricated by 3D printing have high specific stiffness and strength, with maximum equivalent compression modulus and strength of 401.91 MPa and 30.26 MPa, respectively. Moreover, the relative density of a truss structure can be as low as 1.45%. Additionally, structural units can be extended in any direction to form a multilayer truss structure. Structural performance can be controlled by designing the parameters of each layer. This study offers a novel approach for designing a multifunctional multilayer truss structure, a structure with low-density needs and unique load-bearing effects.
Interplay between Shelf Life and Printability of Silica-Filled Suspensions
Authors: Torres Xavier M. , Stockdale John R. , Adhikari Santosh , Legett Shelbie A. , Pacheco Adam , Guajardo Jesus A. , Labouriau Andrea
Published: November 2023

Although fumed silica/siloxane suspensions are commonly employed in additive manufacturing technology, the interplay between shelf life, storage conditions, and printability has yet to be explored. In this work, direct ink writing (DIW) was used to print unique three-dimensional structures that required suspensions to retain shape and form while being printed onto a substrate. Suspensions containing varying concentrations of hydrophobic and hydrophilic silica were formulated and evaluated over a time span of thirty days. Storage conditions included low (8%) and high (50%) relative humidity and temperatures ranging from 4 °C to 25 °C. The shelf life of the suspensions was examined by comparing the print quality of pristine and aged samples via rheology, optical microscopy, and mechanical testing. Results showed a significant decrease in printability over time for suspensions containing hydrophilic fumed silica, whereas the printability of suspensions containing hydrophobic fumed silica remained largely unchanged after storage. The findings in this work established the following recommendations for extending the shelf life and printability of suspensions commonly used in DIW technology: (1) higher fumed silica concentrations, (2) low humidity and low temperature storage environments, and (3) the use of hydrophobic fumed silica instead of hydrophilic fumed silica.
N-Halamine-Based Polypropylene Melt-Blown Nonwoven Fabric with Superhydrophilicity and Antibacterial Properties for Face Masks
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Zhao Qinghua , Chen Jiahui , Mei Tao , Wang Wenwen , Li Mufang , Wang Dong
Published: November 2023

Polypropylene melt-blown nonwoven fabric (PP MNF) masks can effectively block pathogens in the environment from entering the human body. However, the adhesion of surviving pathogens to masks poses a risk of human infection. Thus, embedding safe and efficient antibacterial materials is the key to solving pathogen infection. In this study, stable chlorinated poly(methacrylamide-N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide) polypropylene melt-blown nonwoven fabrics (PP-P(MAA-MBAA)-Cl MNFs) have been fabricated by a simple UV cross-link and chlorination process, and the active chlorine content can reach 3500 ppm. The PP-P(MAA-MBAA)-Cl MNFs show excellent hydrophilic and antibacterial properties. The PP-P(MAA-MBAA)-Cl MNFs could kill all bacteria (both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) with only 5 min of contact. Therefore, incorporating PP-P(MAA-MBAA)-Cl MNF as a hydrophilic antimicrobial layer into a four-layer PP-based mask holds great potential for enhancing protection and comfort.
The Impact of Dam Construction on Downstream Vegetation Area in Dry Areas Using Satellite Remote Sensing: A Case Study
Authors: Almalki Raid , Khaki Mehdi , Saco Patricia M. , Rodriguez Jose F.
Published: November 2023

The assessment of ecosystem quality and the maintenance of optimal ecosystem function require understanding vegetation area dynamics and their relationship with climate variables. This study aims to detect vegetation area changes downstream of the Hali dam, which was built in 2009, and to understand the influence of the dam as well as climatic variables on the region’s vegetation areas from 2000 to 2020. The case study is located in an arid area with an average rainfall amount from 50 to 100 mm/year. An analysis of seasonal changes in vegetation areas was conducted using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and supervised image classification was used to evaluate changes in vegetation areas using Landsat imagery. Pearson correlation and multivariate linear regression were used to assess the response of local vegetation areas to both hydrologic changes due to dam construction and climate variability. The NDVI analysis revealed a considerable vegetation decline after the dam construction in the dry season. This is primarily associated with the impoundment of seasonal water by the dam and the increase in cropland areas due to dam irrigation. A significantly stronger correlation between vegetation changes and precipitation and temperature variations was observed before the dam construction. Furthermore, multivariant linear regression was used to evaluate the variations in equivalent water thickness (EWT), climate data, and NDVI before and after the dam construction. The results suggested that 85 percent of the variability in the mean NDVI was driven by climate variables and EWT before the dam construction. On the other hand, it was found that only 42 percent of the variations in the NDVI were driven by climate variables and EWT from 2010 to 2020 for both dry and wet seasons.
Automatic Identification for the Boundaries of InSAR Anomalous Deformation Areas Based on Semantic Segmentation Model
Authors: Liang Yiwen , Zhang Yi , Li Yuanxi , Xiong Jiaqi
Published: November 2023

Interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) technology has become one of the mainstream techniques for active landslide identification over a large area. However, the method for interpreting anomalous deformation areas derived from InSAR data is still mainly manual delineation through human–computer interaction. This study focuses on using a deep learning semantic segmentation model to identify the boundaries of anomalous deformation areas automatically. We experimented with the delineation results based on an InSAR deformation map, hot spot map, and different combinations of topographic datasets to build the optimal model. The result indicates that the hot spot map, aspect, and Google Earth image as input features based on the U-Net model can achieve the best performance, with the precision, recall, F1 score, and intersection over union (IoU) being 0.822, 0.835, 0.823, and 0.705, respectively. Our method promotes the development of identifying active landslides using InSAR technology automatically and rapidly at a regional scale. Moreover, applying a new method for automatically and rapidly identifying potential landslides in susceptible areas is necessary for landslide hazard mitigation and risk management.
Co-Planning Port–City 2030: The InterACT Approach as a Booster for Port–City Sustainable Development
Authors: Ettorre Benedetta , Daldanise Gaia , Giovene di Girasole Eleonora , Clemente Massimo
Published: November 2023

Port–city ecosystems face pressing challenges, such as land regeneration and environmental conservation, while striving to foster conscientious governance models among stakeholders. An innovative solution to address these issues lies in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), acknowledged by sustainability frameworks as essential for sustainable urban development. Although ICT is regularly employed by ports for logistics and traffic management, its untapped potential for urban planning is substantial. Starting from studies conducted on port planning and management and the use of ICT as a decision support system, this research seeks to explore the feasibility of devising an innovative model to facilitate deliberative decision-making for the regeneration of port–city interaction areas. This study adopts the InterACT approach to support planning efforts by constructing an open and implementable Geographic Information System (GIS). This approach has been tested on the Port of Naples in Italy to provide the Port System Authority (AdSP) of the Central Tyrrhenian Sea with strategic guidance as part of their efforts to draft a new Port Master Plan. The initial achievements encompass the establishment of an operational database to facilitate stakeholders within the Port, in conjunction with the implementation of a deliberative decision-making process enriched by ICT. Additionally, a tool was devised to seamlessly combine visualization and spatial data integration, thus fostering engagement and collaboration between port and urban stakeholders.
Optimization of Exterior Wall Cladding Materials for Residential Buildings Using the Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGAII) Based on the Integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for Energy Consumption: A Case Study
Authors: Atashbar Hossein , Noorzai Esmatullah
Published: November 2023

In today’s construction industry, a topic of paramount importance is reducing energy consumption within buildings. This study endeavors to combine Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) through a multi-objective optimization algorithm to enhance the environmental efficiency of buildings. The core objective is the optimization of materials used in the building’s outer shell to effectively curtail operational energy consumption. To achieve this, we employed BIM modeling, parametric simulations with the Energy Plus engine, and Athena to assess the embodied energy in materials. The multi-objective optimization algorithm NSGAII was harnessed to determine the most suitable materials. The results derived from the LCA and BIM analyses illustrate that the selection of optimal materials for residential building facades in Iran can lead to a remarkable 40% reduction in annual average energy consumption. Furthermore, this approach contributes significantly to mitigating global warming potential (GWP). Experts and architects can apply this method to evaluate and select the best materials for various building components, especially in high-rise buildings.
A Scientometric Analysis of Payments for Ecosystem Services Research: Mapping Global Trends and Directions
Authors: Song Changsu , Liu Yuqing , Liu Longqing , Xian Chaofan , Wang Xuan
Published: November 2023

Payment for ecosystem services (PES) is an innovative economic intervention to mitigate the decline of ecosystem services and biodiversity; it plays a key role in harmonizing protection and development. Based on numerous PES practices worldwide, PES has emerged as a research hotspot in the field of sustainability. This paper presents a comprehensive scientometric analysis of PES academic publications between 1987 and 2022. The study aims to characterize the intellectual landscape of PES by identifying and visualizing the evolution of the collaboration network, the co-citation network, and emerging research trends. The findings reveal a rapid increase in publications of this field, indicating its growing importance as an interdisciplinary research subject. In particular, PES has gained significant attention from numerous researchers since 2007. Environmental sciences and ecology (50.77%) have been the core subjects, followed by business economics (11.04%) and biodiversity conservation (9.58%). Engineering (3.52%) and water resources (3.40%) have emerged as new fields in recent years. Notably, productive authors and institutions in this domain are primarily located in the United States, China, and the United Kingdom. However, fewer stable collaborations were found between China and European countries. Regarding the keywords, the most popular keywords of this topic were “ecosystem service” (1423), “conservation” (1324), and “biodiversity” (1029). By synthesizing the literature, this paper identifies pressing topics related to the effectiveness of PES, including the evaluation of effectiveness, efficiency assessment, and equity. Through an in-depth analysis, this paper elucidates global trends and directions in PES research. It is important to create a fair and efficient market that boosts the motivation and initiative of society to engage in PES initiatives, to increase investment in comprehensive PES projects, which helps improve the efficiency of fund utilization, especially concerning climate change mitigation. It is proposed to integrate natural sciences and social sciences to comprehensively assess the effectiveness of climate-friendly PES, which contributes to the sustainable development of PES research and application.
Building Sustainable Virtual Communities of Practice: A Study of the Antecedents of Intention to Continue Participating
Authors: González-Anta Baltasar , Pérez de la Fuente Isabel , Zornoza Ana , Orengo Virginia
Published: November 2023

Virtual communities are essential in contemporary social and organizational domains. Their sustainability is largely propelled by members’ contributions, and yet the mechanisms for achieving significant participation remain ambiguous. Grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model, our primary objective is to identify the factors that may predict the intention to participate in a virtual community of practice; secondly, we aim to detect the most influential predictor(s) and the best model. In this paper, we conduct a cross-sectional study with a sample of 114 virtual community participants. Our multiple and weighted regression analyses reveal that technological, personal, and motivational factors sway participation intentions. Nevertheless, a combination of specific factors, interactivity, self-efficacy, and identification, are the most closely related to participation intention. This research offers valuable insights for organizations and community promoters, enhancing member retention and interaction stimulation and thereby constructing sustainable virtual environments through effective community design and management.
Influence of Some Key Parameters on the Efficiency of Flocculation–Solidification–Filter Press Combined Method for Sustainable Treatment of Waste Mud Slurry
Authors: Han Chao , Xie Hongping , Bai Bin , Li Shuai , Zhang Rongjun , Huang Yue
Published: November 2023

The flocculation–solidification–filter-press combined method is a new type of method for treating waste slurry that combines flocculation and chemical curing with a mechanical filter press. Among these processes, the mechanical filter-press process is key to the efficient disposal of waste engineering slurries by the flocculation–solidification–filter-press combined method. In the mechanical filter-press process, parameters including the initial thickness of filtration mud, the magnitude of filtration pressure, and the duration of press filtration have important impacts on the dewatering and strength after subsequent curing. In this work, a series of laboratory tests were conducted to study the influence of filter-press parameters on flocculated–solidified mud by measuring the properties of treated and cured mud. The test results showed that the initial mud bag thickness is an important factor in the mud treatment effect. As the initial mud bag thickness increases, the greater the water content of the mud at the end of the filter-press process after applying the same amount of time and the same amount of pressure, the lower the post-conservation strength will be. The increase in filtration pressure and filtration time within a certain range can reduce the water content of the mud brick after filtration and significantly improve its shear strength. In the actual process of filtering in the project, the thickness of the initial mud bag should be no more than 140 mm, the filtration pressure is about 0.35 MPa, and the filtration time is suitable for 2 min.
Study on the Spatiotemporal Evolution of the Ecological Landscape and Construction of an Ecological Network: A Case Study of Hebei Province
Authors: Gu Shijie , Li Shuhuan , Wu Shuai , Tian Bing , Hu Yincui , Cui Minmin , Sun Mingze
Published: November 2023

Research on the establishment of a regional ecological network can provide a scientific basis and valuable guidance for the protection of regional animals and plants, water conservation, sustainable resource utilization, and optimization of land use patterns. This study investigated the impacts of land use changes on the ecological security pattern using morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA), the minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) model, and the analysis of spatiotemporal changes and fragmentation of land use types. The results indicate that from 2000 to 2020, the dominant trend in land use types was the expansion of cultivated land, grass land, and wood land. Although the proportion of cultivated land was the largest and was concentrated in the southern part of Hebei Province, the total area of cultivated land showed a decline. Landscape index calculations revealed an increase in fragmentation of the overall landscape ecological patches, while the spatial and quantitative distribution of landscape types gradually became more uniform. Furthermore, 52 patches with the highest landscape index were identified as ecological sources, mainly located in northern Hebei Province in 2020. MSPA calculations showed that elevation, slope, and land use type contributed significantly to the comprehensive resistance surface. Using the MCR model, an ecological network for Hebei Province was constructed, consisting of 114 ecological corridors and 28 ecological nodes. The ecological corridors exhibited a distribution pattern of high density in the north and low density in the south, while the ecological nodes enhanced overall ecological connectivity in the region. Based on the current ecological environment, it is recommended to increase the number of ecological corridors and ecological nodes to enhance ecosystem stability.
Experimental Research on the Output Performance of Scroll Compressor for Micro Scale Compressed Air Energy Storage System
Authors: Fang Juan , Xu Yonghong , Zhang Hongguang , Yang Zhi , Wan Jifang , Liu Zhengguang
Published: November 2023

Micro compressed air energy storage systems are a research hotspot in the field of compressed air energy storage technology. Compressors and expanders are the core equipment for energy conversion, and their performance has a significant impact on the performance of the entire compressed air energy storage system. Scroll compressors have the advantages of small size, low noise, light weight, low vibration, long service life, continuous and stable gas transmission, and reliable operation. This article builds a micro compressed air energy storage system based on a scroll compressor and studies the effects of key parameters such as speed, torque, current, and storage tank pressure on the temperature difference, pressure ratio, energy consumption, and efficiency of the scroll compressor. The experimental results indicate that the power consumption of the scroll compressor shows an increasing trend with the increase in current, torque, and gas storage tank pressure. The isentropic efficiency of a scroll compressor shows a decreasing trend with increasing current, torque, and storage tank pressure. The maximum values of power consumption and isentropic efficiency of the scroll compressor are 3427 W and 90.8%, respectively.