bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variation Analysis of Starch Properties in Tartary Buckwheat and Construction of Near-Infrared Models for Rapid Non-Destructive Detection
Authors: Zhu Liwei , Liu Fei , Du Qianxi , Shi Taoxiong , Deng Jiao , Li Hongyou , Cai Fang , Meng Ziye , Chen Qingfu , Zhang Jieqiong , Huang Juan
Published: August 2024

Due to the requirements for quality testing and breeding Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tartaricum Gaerth), it is necessary to find a method for the rapid detection of starch content in Tartary buckwheat. To obtain samples with a continuously distributed chemical value, stable Tartary buckwheat recombinant inbred lines were used. After scanning the near-infrared spectra of whole grains, we employed conventional methods to analyze the contents of Tartary buckwheat. The results showed that the contents of total starch, amylose, amylopectin, and resistant starch were 532.1–741.5 mg/g, 176.8–280.2 mg/g, 318.8–497.0 mg/g, and 45.1–105.2 mg/g, respectively. The prediction model for the different starch contents in Tartary buckwheat was established using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in combination with chemometrics. The Kennard–Stone algorithm was used to split the training set and the test set. Six different methods were used to preprocess the spectra in the wavenumber range of 4000–12,000 cm−1. The Competitive Adaptive Reweighted Sampling algorithm was then used to extract the characteristic spectra, and the prediction model was built using the partial least squares method. Through a comprehensive analysis of each parameter of the model, the best model for the prediction of each nutrient was determined. The correlation coefficient of calibration (Rc) and the correlation coefficient of prediction (Rp) of the best models for total starch and amylose were greater than 0.95, and the Rc and Rp of the best models for amylopectin and resistant starch were also greater than 0.93. The results showed that the NIRS-based prediction model fulfilled the requirement for the rapid determination of Tartary buckwheat starch, thus providing an effective technical approach for the rapid and non-destructive testing of starch content in the food science and agricultural industry.
Kiwifruit in the Omics Age: Advances in Genomics, Breeding, and Beyond
Authors: Nazir Mian Faisal , Lou Jinpeng , Wang Yu , Zou Shuaiyu , Huang Hongwen
Published: August 2024

The kiwifruit, Actinidia genus, has emerged as a nutritionally rich and economically significant crop with a history rooted in China. This review paper examines the global journey of the kiwifruit, its genetic diversity, and the role of advanced breeding techniques in its cultivation and improvement. The expansion of kiwifruit cultivation from China to New Zealand, Italy, Chile and beyond, driven by the development of new cultivars and improved agricultural practices, is discussed, highlighting the fruit’s high content of vitamins C, E, and K. The genetic resources within the Actinidia genus are reviewed, with emphasis on the potential of this diversity in breeding programs. The review provides extensive coverage to the application of modern omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, which have revolutionized the understanding of the biology of kiwifruit and facilitated targeted breeding efforts. It examines both conventional breeding methods and modern approaches, like marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, mutation breeding, and the potential of CRISPR-Cas9 technology for precise trait enhancement. Special attention is paid to interspecific hybridization and cisgenesis as strategies for incorporating beneficial traits and developing superior kiwifruit varieties. This comprehensive synthesis not only sheds light on the current state of kiwifruit research and breeding, but also outlines the future directions and challenges in the field, underscoring the importance of integrating traditional and omics-based approaches to meet the demands of a changing global climate and market preferences.
Plants Restoration Drives the Gobi Soil Microbial Diversity for Improving Soil Quality
Authors: Wang Lizhi , Ma Junyong , Wu Qifeng , Hu Yongchao , Feng Jinxiao
Published: August 2024

Desertification and salt stress are major causes of terrestrial ecosystem loss worldwide, and the Gobi, representing a salt-stressed area in inland China, has a major impact on the ecosystems and biodiversity of its surrounding environment. The restoration of the Gobi Desert is an important way to control its expansion, but there are few studies on the evaluation of restoration. In this study, soils under different restoration scenarios, namely, soils in restored areas (R1, R2), semi-restored areas (SR1, SR2), and unrestored control areas (C1, C2), were used to investigate differences in microbial diversity and physicochemical properties. The results showed that the soil was mainly dominated by particles of 4–63 μm (26.45–37.94%) and >63 μm (57.95–72.87%). Across the different restoration levels, the soil pH (7.96–8.43) remained basically unchanged, salinity decreased from 9.23–2.26 to 0.24–0.25, and water content remained constant (10.98–12.27%) except for one restored sample in which it was higher (22.32%). The effective Al, Cu, and Zn in the soil increased, but only slightly. Total organic matter (TOM) decreased from 3.86–5.20% to 1.31–1.47%, and total organic nitrogen (TON) decreased from 0.03–0.06% to 0.01–0.02%, but the difference in total organic carbon (TOC) was not significant. High-throughput testing revealed that the bacterial population of the restored area was dominated by A4b (6.33–9.18%), MND1 (4.94–7.39%), and Vicinamibacteraceae (7.04–7.39%). Regarding archaea, samples from the restored areas were dominated by Marine Group II (76.17–81.49%) and Candidatus Nitrososphaera (6.07–9.75%). PCoA showed that the different restoration levels were the main cause of the differences between the samples. Additionally, salinity was the dominant factor that induced this difference, but it was inhibited by the restoration and targeted enrichment of some of these functional genera. Desert restoration should therefore focus on conserving water rather than adding nutrients. Planting salt- and drought-tolerant vegetation will contribute to the initial restoration of the desert and the restoration of the microbiological content of the soil as it migrates over time, creating a cycle of elements. Restoration stimulates and enhances the microbial diversity of the soil via beneficial microorganisms.
Morphological, Physiological, and Photosynthetic Differences of Tartary Buckwheat Induced by Post-Anthesis Drought
Authors: Yuan Hang , Wang Qiang , Qi Anyin , Li Shuang , Hu Yan , Hu Zhiming , Guo Laichun , Liang Chenggang , Li Wurijimusi , Liu Changying , Sun Yanxia , Zou Liang , Peng Lianxin , Xiang Dabing , Liu Cheng , Huang Jingwei , Wan Yan
Published: August 2024

Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum (L.) Gaertn) is a crop of significant interest due to its nutritional value and resilience to drought conditions. However, drought, particularly following flowering, is a major factor contributing to yield reduction. This research employed two distinct Tartary buckwheat genotypes to investigate the effects of post-anthesis drought on growth and physicochemical characteristics. The study aimed to elucidate the response of Tartary buckwheat to drought stress. The findings indicated that post-anthesis drought adversely impacted the growth, morphology, and biomass accumulation of Tartary buckwheat. Drought stress enhanced the maximum photosynthetic capacity (Fv/Fm) and light protection ability (NPQ) of the ‘Xiqiao-2’ genotype. In response to drought stress, ‘Dingku-1’ and ‘Xiqiao-2’ maintained osmotic balance by accumulating soluble sugars and proline, respectively. Notably, ‘Xiqiao-2’ exhibited elevated levels of flavonoids and polyphenols in its leaves, which helped mitigate oxidative damage caused by drought. Furthermore, rewatering after a brief drought period significantly improved plant height, stem diameter, and biomass accumulation in ‘Dingku-1’. Overall, ‘Xiqiao-2’ demonstrated greater long-term tolerance to post-anthesis drought, while ‘Dingku-1’ was less adversely affected by short-term post-anthesis drought.
Shaolinia: A Fossil Link between Conifers and Angiosperms
Authors: Wang Xin , Chen Li-Jun
Published: August 2024

The flowering plants (angiosperms) are the dominant and defining group of the Earth ecosystems today. However, from which group and by what way flowers, especially their gynoecia (the key characteristic organs of angiosperms), are derived have been key questions in botany, and have remained unanswered despite botanists’ efforts over centuries. Such an embarrassing situation can be attributed to the lack of plants with partially enclosed ovules, which are supposed fill a position between gymnosperms and angiosperms. Here, we report a fossil plant that has apparent coniferous vegetative and reproductive characters but has a single seed partially wrapped by the subtending bract. Such a morphology suggests that a carpel of some angiosperms is equivalent to a lateral appendage (a bract plus its axillary seed) of this fossil. Such a non-traditional interpretation of the homology of angiosperm carpels is compatible with various new progresses made in botany and is in line with Tomlinson’s recent hypothesis. Together with other fossil evidence reported recently, it appears that gynoecia in angiosperms are derived in multiple ways.
Agronomic and Technical Evaluation of Herbicide Spot Spraying in Maize Based on High-Resolution Aerial Weed Maps—An On-Farm Trial
Authors: Allmendinger Alicia , Spaeth Michael , Saile Marcus , Peteinatos Gerassimos G. , Gerhards Roland
Published: August 2024

Spot spraying can significantly reduce herbicide use while maintaining equal weed control efficacy as a broadcast application of herbicides. Several online spot-spraying systems have been developed, with sensors mounted on the sprayer or by recording the RTK-GNSS position of each crop seed. In this study, spot spraying was realized offline based on georeferenced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) images with high spatial resolution. Studies were conducted in four maize fields in Southwestern Germany in 2023. A randomized complete block design was used with seven treatments containing broadcast and spot applications of pre-emergence and post-emergence herbicides. Post-emergence herbicides were applied at 2–4-leaf and at 6–8-leaf stages of maize. Weed and crop density, weed control efficacy (WCE), crop losses, accuracy of weed classification in UAV images, herbicide savings and maize yield were measured and analyzed. On average, 94% of all weed plants were correctly identified in the UAV images with the automatic classifier. Spot-spraying achieved up to 86% WCE, which was equal to the broadcast herbicide treatment. Early spot spraying saved 47% of herbicides compared to the broadcast herbicide application. Maize yields in the spot-spraying plots were equal to the broadcast herbicide application plots. This study demonstrates that spot-spraying based on UAV weed maps is feasible and provides a significant reduction in herbicide use.
Improvement of Flowering Stage in Japonica Rice Variety Jiahe212 by Using CRISPR/Cas9 System
Authors: He Dengmei , Zhou Ran , Huang Chenbo , Li Yanhui , Peng Zequn , Li Dian , Duan Wenjing , Huang Nuan , Cao Liyong , Cheng Shihua , Zhan Xiaodeng , Sun Lianping , Wang Shiqiang
Published: August 2024

The flowering period of rice significantly impacts variety adaptability and yield formation. Properly shortening the reproductive period of rice varieties can expand their ecological range without significant yield reduction. Targeted genome editing, like CRISPR/Cas9, is an ideal tool to fine-tune rice growth stages and boost yield synergistically. In this study, we developed a CRISPR/Cas9-mediated multiplex genome-editing vector containing five genes related to three traits, Hd2, Ghd7, and DTH8 (flowering-stage genes), along with the recessive rice blast resistance gene Pi21 and the aromatic gene BADH2. This vector was introduced into the high-quality japonica rice variety in Zhejiang province, Jiahe212 (JH212), resulting in 34 T0 plants with various effective mutations. Among the 17 mutant T1 lines, several displayed diverse flowering dates, but most exhibited undesirable agronomic traits. Notably, three homozygous mutant lines (JH-C15, JH-C18, and JH-C31) showed slightly earlier flowering dates without significant differences in yield-related traits compared to JH212. Through special Hyg and Cas marker selection of T2 plants, we identified seven, six, and two fragrant glutinous plants devoid of transgenic components. These single plants will serve as sib lines of JH212 and potential resources for breeding applications, including maintenance lines for indica–japonica interspecific three-line hybrid rice. In summary, our research lays the foundation for the creation of short-growth-period CMS (cytoplasmic male sterility, CMS) lines, and also provides materials and a theoretical basis for indica–japonica interspecific hybrid rice breeding with wider adaptability.
Comparative Studies on the Radiative Heat Transfer in Arc Plasma and Its Impact in a Model of a Free-Burning Arc
Authors: Baeva Margarita , Cressault Yann , Kloc Petr
Published: August 2024

The radiative heat transfer in arc plasma models is considered from the point of view of its description in terms of a net emission coefficient, the method of spherical harmonics in its lowest order, and the discrete ordinate method. Net emission coefficients are computed, applying approximate analytical and numerical approaches and a multi-band representation of the spectral absorption coefficient with three kinds of its averaging and two datasets. Self-consistent access to the radiative heat transfer is applied to a two-dimensional axisymmetric model of a free-burning arc in argon at atmospheric pressure. The results obtained from the models employing the net emission coefficient, the method of spherical harmonics, and the discrete ordinate method are compared.
FTIR Monitoring of Polyurethane Foams Derived from Acid-Liquefied and Base-Liquefied Polyols
Authors: Dulyanska Yuliya , Cruz-Lopes Luísa , Esteves Bruno , Guiné Raquel , Domingos Idalina
Published: August 2024

Polyalcohol liquefaction can be performed by acid or base catalysis, producing polyols with different properties. This study compared the mechanical properties of foams produced using polyols from liquefied Cytisus scoparius obtained by acid and base catalysis and using two different foam catalysts. The differences were monitored using FTIR analysis. Acid-catalyzed liquefaction yielded 95.1%, with the resultant polyol having an OH index of 1081 mg KOH/g, while base catalysis yielded 82.5%, with a similar OH index of 1070 mg KOH/g. Generally, compressive strength with dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL) ranged from 16 to 31 kPa (acid-liquefied polyol) and 12 to 21 kPa (base-liquefied polyol), while with stannous octoate (TIN), it ranged from 17 to 42 kPa (acid) and 29 to 68 kPa (base). Increasing water content generally decreased the compressive modulus and strength of the foams. Higher water content led to a higher absorption at 1670 cm−1 in the FTIR spectrum due to the formation of urea. Higher isocyanate indices generally improved compressive strength, but high amounts led to unreacted isocyanate that could be seen by a higher absorption at 2265 cm−1 and 3290 cm−1. DBTL was shown to be the best foam catalyst due to higher trimer conversion seen in the spectra by a higher absorption at 1410 cm−1. Acid- and base-derived polyols lead to different polyurethane foams with different FTIR spectra, particularly with a higher absorption at 1670 cm−1 for foams from acid-derived liquefaction.
Development and Manufacturing of a Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastic Composite Spar Produced by Oven Vacuum Bagging
Authors: Rocha Helena , Rocha Agnieszka , Malheiro Joana , Sousa Bruno , Vilela Andreia , Carneiro Filipa , Antunes Paulo
Published: August 2024

The limited recyclability of fibre-reinforced thermoset composites has fostered the development of alternative thermoplastic-based composites and their manufacturing processes. The most common thermoplastic-based composites are often costly due to their availability in the form of prepreg materials and to the high pressure and temperatures required for their manufacturing. Yet, the manufacturing of economic and recyclable composites, made of semi-preg composite materials using traditional composite manufacturing technologies, has only been proved at a laboratory scale through the manufacturing of flat plates. This work reports the manufacturing of a real structural part, a wing spar section with complex geometry, made of commingled polyamide 12 (PA12) fibres and carbon fibres (CFs) semi-preg and by oven vacuum bagging (OVB). The composite layup was studied using finite element analysis, and processing simulation assisted in the determination of the PA12/CF preform for OVB. Processing of two forms of semi-preg materials was first evaluated and optimised. The material selection for part manufacturing was mainly defined by the materials’ processability. The spar section was manufactured in two OVB stages and was then mechanically tested. The mechanical test showed a linear strain response of the prototype up to the maximum load and validated the optimised layup configuration of the composite structure.
Hot Embossing to Fabricate Parylene-Based Microstructures and Its Impact on the Material Properties
Authors: Glauche Florian , Selbmann Franz , Guttmann Markus , Schneider Marc , Hengsbach Stefan , Joseph Yvonne , Kuhn Harald
Published: August 2024

This study aims to establish and optimize a process for the fabrication of 3D microstructures of the biocompatible polymer Parylene C using hot embossing techniques. The different process parameters such as embossing temperature, embossing force, demolding temperature and speed, and the usage of a release agent were optimized, utilizing adhesive micropillars as a use case. To enhance compatibility with conventional semiconductor fabrication techniques, hot embossing of Parylene C was adapted from conventional stainless steel substrates to silicon chip platforms. Furthermore, this adaptation included an investigation of the effects of the hot embossing process on metal layers embedded in the Parylene C, ensuring compatibility with the ultra-thin Parylene printed circuit board (PCB) demonstrated previously. To evaluate the produced microstructures, a combination of characterization methods was employed, including light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). These methods provided comprehensive insights into the morphological, chemical, and structural properties of the embossed Parylene C. Considering the improved results compared to existing patterning techniques for Parylene C like plasma etching or laser ablation, the developed hot embossing approach yields a superior structural integrity, characterized by increased feature resolution and enhanced sidewall smoothness. These advancements render the method particularly suitable for diverse applications, including but not limited to, sensor optical components, adhesive interfaces for medical wearables, and microfluidic systems.
Effects of Three Different Kinds of Foaming Medium on the Properties of Expanded Thermal Plastic Polyurethane Prepared via Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Foaming
Authors: Li Zhou , Li Yuanyuan , Li Yingru
Published: August 2024

Hot air, water, and glycerol were studied as foaming mediums for the production of ETPU to evaluate their influence on the behavior of the foam and compare the optimal particles for each of the foaming temperatures selected. The results showed that the times of water foaming and glycerol foaming were shorter by about 2/3 than with hot-air foaming. The best foaming temperatures for hot-air foaming, glycerol foaming, and water foaming are 110–115 °C, 75 °C, and 90 °C, respectively. The particles of glycerol foam have a matte appearance and their gloss is not very good. However, the particles in hot-air foaming are light, and the gloss is very satisfactory. The gloss of the surface of water-foaming particles is dim. At the same time, there is a faint matte appearance. Particles made with glycerol foaming and water foaming are more even than those made with hot-air foaming. The density of foaming materials from glycerol foaming, hot-air foaming, and water foaming are raised accordingly, while the hardness of foaming materials from glycerol foaming, water foaming, and hot-air foaming are successively increased.
Analysis of the Impact of Cooling Lubricants on the Tensile Properties of FDM 3D Printed PLA and PLA+CF Materials
Authors: Hozdić Elvis , Hasanagić Redžo
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the impact of infill density on the mechanical properties of fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) and PLA reinforced with carbon fiber (PLA+CF) specimens, which hold industrial significance due to their applications in industries where mechanical robustness and durability are critical. Exposure to cooling lubricants is particularly relevant for environments where these materials are frequently subjected to cooling fluids, such as manufacturing plants and machine shops. This research aims to explore insights into the mechanical robustness and durability of these materials under realistic operating conditions, including prolonged exposure to cooling lubricants. Tensile tests were performed on PLA and PLA+CF specimens printed with varying infill densities (40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%). The specimens underwent tensile testing before and after exposure to cooling lubricants for 7 and 30 days, respectively. Mechanical properties such as tensile strength, maximum force, strain, and Young’s modulus were measured to evaluate the effects of infill density and lubricant exposure. Higher infill densities significantly increased tensile strength and maximum force for both PLA and PLA+CF specimens. PLA specimens showed an increase in tensile strength from 22.49 MPa at 40% infill density to 45.00 MPa at 100% infill density, representing a 100.09% enhancement. PLA+CF specimens exhibited an increase from 23.09 MPa to 42.54 MPa, marking an 84.27% improvement. After 30 days of lubricant exposure, the tensile strength of PLA specimens decreased by 15.56%, while PLA+CF specimens experienced an 18.60% reduction. Strain values exhibited minor fluctuations, indicating stable elasticity, and Young’s modulus improved significantly with higher infill densities, suggesting enhanced material stiffness. Increasing the infill density of FDM 3D-printed PLA and PLA+CF specimens significantly enhance their mechanical properties, even under prolonged exposure to cooling lubricants. These findings have significant implications for industrial applications, indicating that optimizing infill density can enhance the durability and performance of 3D-printed components. This study offers a robust foundation for further research and practical applications, highlighting the critical role of infill density in enhancing structural integrity and load-bearing capacity.
Self-Floating Polydopamine/Polystyrene Composite Porous Structure via a NaCl Template Method for Solar-Driven Interfacial Water Evaporation
Authors: Wang Xiao , Li Zhen , Wu Xiaojing , Liu Bingjie , Tian Tian , Ding Yi , Zhang Haibo , Li Yuanli , Liu Ye , Dai Chunai
Published: August 2024

Solar energy, as a clean and renewable energy source, holds significant promise for addressing water shortages. Utilizing solar energy for water evaporation is seen as an effective solution in this regard. While many existing interfacial photothermal water evaporation systems rely on nanoparticles or graphene as photothermal or support materials, this study introduced polydopamine (PDA) as a photothermal material due to its environmental friendliness and excellent photon absorption characteristics that closely match the solar spectrum. Polystyrene (PS) was also introduced as a support material for its porous structure and density similar to water, enabling it to float on water. The resulting PS-PDA composite porous structure solar evaporator exhibited a photothermal conversion efficiency comparable to nanoparticles (over 75%), yet with lower production costs and minimal environmental impact. This innovative approach offers a scalable solution for water-scarce regions, providing a cost-effective and efficient means to address water scarcity. The use of PDA and PS in this context highlights the potential for utilizing common materials in novel ways to meet pressing environmental challenges.
Polycaprolactone—Vitamin E TPGS Micellar Formulation for Oral Delivery of Paclitaxel
Authors: Binkhathlan Ziyad , Ali Raisuddin , Yusuf Osman , Alomrani Abdullah H. , Badran Mohamed M. , Alshememry Abdullah K. , Alshamsan Aws , Alqahtani Faleh , Qamar Wajhul , Attwa Mohamed W.
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to investigate the potential of polycaprolactone–vitamin E TPGS (PCL-TPGS) micelles as a delivery system for oral administration of paclitaxel (PTX). The PCL-TPGS copolymer was synthesized using ring opening polymerization, and PTX-loaded PCL-TPGS micelles (PTX micelles) were prepared via a co-solvent evaporation method. Characterization of these micelles included measurements of size, polydispersity, and encapsulation efficiency. The cellular uptake of PTX micelles was evaluated in Caco-2 cells using rhodamine 123 (Rh123) as a fluorescent probe. Moreover, an everted rat sac study was conducted to evaluate the ex vivo permeability of PTX micelles. Additionally, a comparative pharmacokinetic study of PTX micelles versus the marketed formulation, Ebetaxel® (a Taxol generic), was performed after a single oral administration to rats. The results demonstrated that the micellar formulation significantly improved PTX solubility (nearly 1 mg/mL). The in vitro stability and release of PTX micelles in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) and simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) demonstrated that PTX micelles remained stable for up to 24 h and significantly slowed the release of PTX in both media compared to Ebetaxel®. The in vitro cellular uptake, ex vivo intestinal permeability, and in vivo pharmacokinetic profile demonstrated that PTX micelles enhanced the permeability and facilitated a rapid absorption of the drug. Conclusively, the PCL7000-TPGS3500 micelles exhibit potential as an effective oral delivery system for PTX.
Effect of Flexible Tank Wall on Seismic Response of Horizontal Storage Tank
Authors: Cui Lifu , Zhu Lijie , Lyu Yuan , Sun Jiangang , Wu Yujian
Published: August 2024

Horizontal storage tanks are integral to the petrochemical industry but pose significant risks during earthquakes, potentially causing severe secondary disasters. Current seismic designs predominantly assume rigid tank walls, which can lead to an underestimation of seismic responses. This study introduces a novel analysis method for assessing the dynamic response of flexible-walled horizontal storage tanks. By separating the liquid velocity potential into convective and impulsive components and integrating these with beam vibration theory, we developed a simplified mechanical model. A parameter analysis and dynamic response research were conducted using numerical methods. Results indicate that flexible tank walls amplify seismic responses, including liquid dynamic pressure peaks, base shear, and overturning bending moments, compared to rigid walls. Additionally, the impact of flexible walls is more pronounced in tanks with larger radii, aspect ratios, diameter–thickness ratios, and H/R ratios. These findings highlight the necessity for revised seismic design approaches that consider wall flexibility to enhance the safety and resilience of horizontal storage tanks.
Mechanism and Prevention of Rock Burst in a Wide Coal Pillar under the Superposition of Dynamic and Static Loads
Authors: Jiang Bangyou , Xu Yanan , Li Wenshuai , Gu Shitan , Ding Mingjun
Published: August 2024

To address the frequent occurrence of rock burst disasters in areas with wide coal pillars during mining in the western mining area of China, the wide coal pillar area of the Tingnan coal mine in Shanxi Province was used as the research background. Theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and field tests were used to establish the mechanical criterion and the energy criterion for the dynamic instability of wide coal pillars. The process and mechanism of wide coal pillar dynamic instability under dynamic and static load disturbances were revealed, and a wide coal pillar rock burst prevention and control scheme was proposed. The results indicated that when the load above a coal pillar reached the stress failure index and the energy failure index was met, the coal pillar reached the critical conditions for rock burst. With increasing static load, the stress, energy, and range of the plastic zone all showed increasing trends on both sides of the coal pillar. Under a given dynamic load, the stress and plastic zone range of the coal pillar significantly increased compared to those without a dynamic load. Under a given static load, the greater the dynamic load, the more likely the coal pillar was to undergo dynamic instability. The evolution of coal pillar dynamic instability was divided into three stages: energy accumulation, local instability, and dynamic instability. When the critical stress and energy conditions for coal pillar dynamic instability are exceeded, rock burst will occur. To reduce the static and dynamic loads of coal pillars, a rock burst prevention and control scheme of energy release and load reduction was proposed and applied onsite. The monitoring results showed that this control plan effectively reduced the stress of the coal pillar and the dynamic load generated by the fracture of the overlying rock layer, indicating safe mining in this area of wide coal pillars.
Hybrid Modeling for On-Line Fermentation Optimization and Scale-Up: A Review
Authors: Albino Mariana , Gargalo Carina L. , Nadal-Rey Gisela , Albæk Mads O. , Krühne Ulrich , Gernaey Krist V.
Published: August 2024

Modeling is a crucial tool in the biomanufacturing industry, namely in fermentation processes. This work discusses both mechanistic and data-driven models, each with unique benefits and application potential. It discusses semi-parametric hybrid modeling, a growing field that combines these two types of models for more accurate and easy result extrapolation. The characteristics and structure of such hybrid models will be examined. Moreover, its versatility will be highlighted, showing its usefulness in various stages of process development, including real-time monitoring and optimization. Scale-up remains one of the most relevant topics in fermentation processes, as it is important to have reproducible critical quality attributes, such as titer and yield, on larger scales. Furthermore, the process still relies on empirical correlations and iterative optimization. For these reasons, it is important to improve scale-up predictions, through e.g., the use of digital tools. Perspectives will be presented on the potential that hybrid modeling has by predicting performance across different process scales. This could provide more efficient and reliable biomanufacturing processes that require less resource consumption through experimentation.
The Changing of Micromechanical Properties of Coal after Water Immersion: The Insight from Nanoindentation Test
Authors: Xiong Wei , Ye Qing , Tan Yuling , Jia Zhenzhen , Cui Guanglei
Published: August 2024

The application of the hydrodynamic method has enhanced the extraction of coal bed methane (CBM). In this method, fracturing fluid rapidly penetrates the coal reservoir, altering its intrinsic pore structure and microscopic mechanical properties. These changes impact the properties of the coal reservoir and CBM depletion. It is, therefore, crucial to explore how these micro-characteristics evolve following water invasion. In this context, using nanoindentation tests, the microscopic characteristics of three coal samples were measured under dry conditions and at water saturations corresponding to 44% and 75% relative humidity. The influence of water immersion on the pore structure was also assessed using mercury injection experiments. Moreover, cluster analysis was used to categorize the extensive measured data into three sub-components: fractures (large pores), inertinite, and vitrinite, to investigate the impact of water saturation on microscopic properties. The findings indicate that cluster analysis is well-suited to these data, showing excellent agreement with porosity and maceral tests. The relationship between the elastic modulus and hardness of dry and wet coal samples varies across the sub-components. There is a notable dependency in the case of vitrinite, whereas water content tends to reduce this dependency. It is also found that water content negatively affects elastic modulus and hardness and reduces the anisotropy ratio. The mechanical properties of inertinite are highly responsive to water immersion, whereas vitrinite exhibits lesser sensitivity. The softening mechanisms of coal when immersed in water, such as calcite phase dissolution, swelling stress fracturing, and weakening of macerals, are identified. This study offers new perspectives on the impact of moisture on the alteration of micromechanical properties in coal.
Model for the Failure Prediction Mechanism of In-Service Pipelines Based on IoT Technology
Authors: Zhang Xiaotian , Xie Xingbing
Published: August 2024

With the rapid increase in pipeline mileage in China, the accurate prediction of corrosion issues in in-service pipelines has become crucial for ensuring safe pipeline operation. Traditional pipeline leakage monitoring methods are significantly limited by human factors and equipment precision, making it challenging to predict and identify leakage points accurately. Therefore, aligned with the trend of intelligent pipeline development, this study aims to construct a failure pressure prediction mechanism model for corroded pipelines based on IoT technology. This model leverages intelligent sensing and prediction to assess the safety status of corroded pipeline sections. Ultrasonic phased array technology detects specific corrosion points and detailed defect parameters within pipeline sections. The parameters are then utilized in the Simdroid domestic finite element analysis model to simulate the ultimate burst pressure of the pipeline. A single-variable approach is employed to analyze the sensitivity of different parameters to the pipeline’s ultimate burst pressure, with the minimum burst pressure point of multi-point corroded sections selected as the overall segment failure pressure. Finite element simulation data are integrated into a neural network database to predict the pipeline failure pressure. The real-time operational data of the pipeline are monitored using negative-pressure wave sensing. The operational pressure of the corroded points is compared with the algorithm-predicted failure pressure; if the values approach a critical threshold, an alarm is triggered. Moreover, the remote control terminals evaluate the pipeline’s self-rescue time, providing a buffer for pipeline leakage self-rescue. The failure prediction mechanism model for in-service pipelines was applied to the Fujian–Guangdong branch of the West–East Gas Pipeline III to verify its accuracy and feasibility. The research results offer technical support for the maintenance and emergency repair of pipeline leakage scenarios, leveraging intelligent pipeline technology to reduce costs and increase the efficiency of pipeline operations, thereby supporting the sustainable development of China’s oil and gas pipelines with theoretical and technical backing.
A Coupling Model of Gas–Water Two-Phase Productivity for Multilateral Horizontal Wells in a Multilayer Gas Reservoir
Authors: He Jun , Zhang Yufeng , Luo Erhui , Xu Anzhu , Chen Yefei , Liu Yunyang , Zeng Xing , Jiang Luyang
Published: August 2024

A series of complex horizontal wells have been implemented in challenging gas reservoirs. Multilateral horizontal well technology can be used in multilayer gas reservoirs, facilitating the expansion of the gas drainage area and enhancing productivity. Accurate productivity calculations for multilateral wells in multilayer reservoirs are essential for effective reservoir development. However, there have been few studies in this area. This paper introduces a coupling model for calculating the gas–water two-phase productivity of multilateral wells in multilayer reservoirs, based on the principles of conformal transformation and superposition of potential functions. The accuracy of the model is validated by obtaining the distribution of flow along the horizontal wellbore through numerical simulation cases. The results from the field case and sensitivity analysis indicate that the pressure difference increases nonlinearly from the toe to the heel, and the productivity of multilateral wells decreases as the gas–water ratio increases. The method proposed in this paper is applicable for calculating the productivity of multilateral wells in multilayer reservoirs.
A Study on the Effect of Different Charge Structures on the Permeability Enhancement of Coal Seam Blasting
Authors: Zuo Yunfei , Zhang Jianyu , Yang Lidong , Wang Feiran , Wang Zhengang
Published: August 2024

With the increasing depth of coal mining, the ground stress of coal seams rises, the gas content rises, and the permeability decreases, which is unfavorable to gas extraction and increases the possibility of gas accidents in coal mines. Blasting technology is often used to improve the permeability of coal seams and increase the effect of gas extraction, but it is difficult to control the blasting effect of ordinary flux coils, and the direction of the fissure and the degree of development of randomness, so it is important to study the effect of different flux coil structures on the blasting of coal seams to increase the permeability of the coal seam, in this paper, first of all, through the numerical simulation to analyze the effect of the blasting of the ordinary structure flux coils and the fissure change in the polygonal structure flux coils, and then make the experimental module. Then, we make the test module, build the test platform, and analyze the effect of blasting penetration of different drug coil structures by comparing the strain after blasting and the change in resistivity before and after blasting of two kinds of drug coil structures, and the results show that the polymerized drug coil can play the role of directional fracturing, and compared with the ordinary structure of the drug coil, the polymerized drug shows a better effect of fracturing and penetration increase.
Physicochemical, Functional, Antioxidant, Pasting and FT-IR Spectroscopic Properties of Fermented Acorns and Sorghum Using Traditional Algerian Processes
Authors: Belmouloud Rayene , Bourekoua Hayat , Wójtowicz Agnieszka , Mahroug Hamida , Ayad Radia , Krajewska Marta , Różyło Renata
Published: August 2024

The fermentation of acorns and sorghum is an ancient practice among the inhabitants of northeastern Algeria. This study aimed to establish the traditional fermentation processes of acorns and sorghum through a regional survey conducted in Algeria. Additionally, it investigated the impact of fermentation on the physicochemical, functional, antioxidant, and pasting properties, as well as the FT-IR spectroscopic profiles of the flours derived from these fermented materials. Characteristics of fermented sorghum and acorn flours were compared with those of non-fermented flours. The study included a survey that was carried out in Algeria at the regional level to establish the traditional processes for fermented acorns and sorghum. The key findings reveal the existence of two production methods: the first, the oldest, involves fermentation in underground pits called Matmor, while the second, more recent, is conducted outside the Matmor. Most manufacturers employed the new process outside of the Matmor, usually in various sized and shaped containers to meet market demand. Acorns and sorghum flour, obtained by drying and grinding fermented acorns and fermented sorghum grains according to the process carried out outside the Matmor, are characterized by a unique biochemical, functional, and structural composition. Detailed analysis of the flours showed a significant decrease in their physicochemical properties after fermentation, with a simultaneous overall increase in antioxidant activity. Moreover, FT-IR spectroscopy suggests that fermentation differentially affects protein secondary structure and starch crystallinity.
Psychological and Psychiatric Characteristics of People with Keratoconus
Authors: Florek Szymon , Gościniewicz Piotr , Suszka Magdalena , Mrukwa-Kominek Ewa , Pudlo Robert
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: There are many reports in the literature on the co-occurrence of somatic diseases and psychiatric disorders. Relatively few have addressed the co-occurrence of corneal cone with anxiety, depression, or personality disorders. Materials and Methods: 99 patients with keratoconus (study group) and 92 patients without keratoconus (control group) participated in the entire study, which was conducted in 2015 and 2020–2023. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI) were used to assess depressive symptoms, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) to assess anxiety symptoms, and the DSM-IV Personality Disorder Inventory (IBZO-DSM-IV) to identify personality disorders. Results: In the study group, the severity of depressive and anxiety symptoms correlated with all types of personality disorders. In the control group, these symptoms did not correlate with antisocial and narcissistic personalities. In the comparative analysis, there were more patients with antisocial, schizotypal, obsessive compulsive, schizoid, paranoid, and dependent personality traits in the study group. Conclusions: Patients with keratoconus have increased expressions of antisocial personality traits, but no differences in anxiety and depression symptoms were evident. Further research is needed among patients diagnosed with keratoconus in the short term.
SSANet-BS: Spectral–Spatial Cross-Dimensional Attention Network for Hyperspectral Band Selection
Authors: Cui Chuanyu , Sun Xudong , Fu Baijia , Shang Xiaodi
Published: August 2024

Band selection (BS) aims to reduce redundancy in hyperspectral imagery (HSI). Existing BS approaches typically model HSI only in a single dimension, either spectral or spatial, without exploring the interactions between different dimensions. To this end, we propose an unsupervised BS method based on a spectral–spatial cross-dimensional attention network, named SSANet-BS. This network is comprised of three stages: a band attention module (BAM) that employs an attention mechanism to adaptively identify and select highly significant bands; two parallel spectral–spatial attention modules (SSAMs), which fuse complex spectral–spatial structural information across dimensions in HSI; a multi-scale reconstruction network that learns spectral–spatial nonlinear dependencies in the SSAM-fusion image at various scales and guides the BAM weights to automatically converge to the target bands via backpropagation. The three-stage structure of SSANet-BS enables the BAM weights to fully represent the saliency of the bands, thereby valuable bands are obtained automatically. Experimental results on four real hyperspectral datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of SSANet-BS.
Land Cover Mapping in a Mangrove Ecosystem Using Hybrid Selective Kernel-Based Convolutional Neural Networks and Multi-Temporal Sentinel-2 Imagery
Authors: Seydi Seyd Teymoor , Ahmadi Seyed Ali , Ghorbanian Arsalan , Amani Meisam
Published: August 2024

Mangrove ecosystems provide numerous ecological services and serve as vital habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna. Thus, accurate mapping and monitoring of relevant land covers in mangrove ecosystems are crucial for effective conservation and management efforts. In this study, we proposed a novel approach for mangrove ecosystem mapping using a Hybrid Selective Kernel-based Convolutional Neural Network (HSK-CNN) framework and multi-temporal Sentinel-2 imagery. A time series of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) products derived from Sentinel-2 imagery was produced to capture the temporal behavior of land cover types in the dynamic ecosystem of the study area. The proposed algorithm integrated Selective Kernel-based feature extraction techniques to facilitate the effective learning and classification of multiple land cover types within the dynamic mangrove ecosystems. The model demonstrated a high Overall Accuracy (OA) of 94% in classifying eight land cover classes, including mangrove, tidal zone, water, mudflat, urban, and vegetation. The HSK-CNN demonstrated superior performance compared to other algorithms, including random forest (OA = 85%), XGBoost (OA = 87%), Three-Dimensional (3D)-DenseNet (OA = 90%), Two-Dimensional (2D)-CNN (OA = 91%), Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP)-Mixer (OA = 92%), and Swin Transformer (OA = 93%). Additionally, it was observed that the structure of the network, such as the types of convolutional layers and patch sizes, affected the classification accuracy using the proposed model and, thus, the optimum scenarios and values of these parameters should be determined to obtain the highest possible classification accuracy. Overall, it was observed that the produced map could offer valuable insights into the distribution of different land cover types in the mangrove ecosystem, facilitating informed decision-making for conservation and sustainable management efforts.
Optimization of Remote-Sensing Image-Segmentation Decoder Based on Multi-Dilation and Large-Kernel Convolution
Authors: Liu Guohong , Liu Cong , Wu Xianyun , Li Yunsong , Zhang Xiao , Xu Junjie
Published: August 2024

Land-cover segmentation, a fundamental task within the domain of remote sensing, boasts a broad spectrum of application potential. We address the challenges in land-cover segmentation of remote-sensing imagery and complete the following work. Firstly, to tackle the issues of foreground–background imbalance and scale variation, a module based on multi-dilated rate convolution fusion was integrated into a decoder. This module extended the receptive field through multi-dilated convolution, enhancing the model’s capability to capture global features. Secondly, to address the diversity of scenes and background interference, a hybrid attention module based on large-kernel convolution was employed to improve the performance of the decoder. This module, based on a combination of spatial and channel attention mechanisms, enhanced the extraction of contextual information through large-kernel convolution. A convolution kernel selection mechanism was also introduced to dynamically select the convolution kernel of the appropriate receptive field, suppress irrelevant background information, and improve segmentation accuracy. Ablation studies on the Vaihingen and Potsdam datasets demonstrate that our decoder significantly outperforms the baseline in terms of mean intersection over union and mean F1 score, achieving an increase of up to 1.73% and 1.17%, respectively, compared with the baseline. In quantitative comparisons, the accuracy of our improved decoder also surpasses other algorithms in the majority of categories. The results of this paper indicate that our improved decoder achieves significant performance improvement compared with the old decoder in remote-sensing image-segmentation tasks, which verifies its application potential in the field of land-cover segmentation.