bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrolyte Imbalance in Acute Traumatic Brain Injury: Insights from the First 24 h
Authors: Săcărescu Alina , Turliuc Mihaela-Dana
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Electrolyte disturbances are common in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), particularly affecting sodium, potassium, chloride, and calcium levels. This study aims to provide insights into these disturbances within the first 24 h post-injury. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 50 TBI patients, excluding those with conditions affecting electrolyte balance. Electrolyte levels were measured, and correlations with demographic data, trauma mechanisms, imaging findings, and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores were analyzed. Results: The results indicated that chloride levels inversely correlated with GCS scores (ρ = −0.515; p = 0.002), suggesting that elevated chloride may indicate severe neurological impairment. Potassium levels were significantly associated with subdural hematoma (p = 0.032) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (p = 0.043), highlighting their potential as markers for severe brain injuries. No significant associations were found between sodium or calcium levels and the studied variables. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of early monitoring of chloride and potassium levels in TBI patients to improve management and outcomes. Future research should focus on larger, multi-center studies to validate these findings and develop comprehensive guidelines for managing electrolyte imbalances in TBI patients.
Research on Identification of Critical Quality Features of Machining Processes Based on Complex Networks and Entropy-CRITIC Methods
Authors: Qu Dongyue , Liang Wenchao , Zhang Yuting , Gu Chaoyun , Zhou Guangyu , Zhan Yong
Published: August 2024

Aiming at the difficulty in effectively identifying critical quality features in the complex machining process, this paper proposes a critical quality feature recognition method based on a machining process network. Firstly, the machining process network model is constructed based on the complex network theory. The LeaderRank algorithm is used to identify the critical processes in the machining process. Secondly, the Entropy-CRITIC method is used to calculate the weight of the quality features of the critical processes, and the critical quality features of the critical processes are determined according to weight ranking results. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the method are verified by taking the medium-speed marine diesel engine coupling rod machining as an example. The results show that the method can still effectively identify the critical quality features in the case of small sample data and provide support for machining process optimization and quality control, thus improving product consistency, reliability, and machining efficiency.
Cutting Force Model of Ultrasonic Elliptical Vibration-Assisted Helical Milling of SiCp/Al Composites
Authors: Liu Ji , Zhou Yunguang , Jia Shiqi , Lu Yize , Zheng Hui , Li Ming
Published: August 2024

SiC particle-reinforced Al metal matrix (SiCp/Al) composites are more and more widely used in the aerospace field due to their excellent properties, and the realization of high-quality drilling of SiCp/Al composites has an important impact on improving the performance of parts. In this paper, ultrasonic elliptical vibration-assisted helical milling (UEVHM) is applied to the machining of SiCp/Al composites. Firstly, the kinematic analysis of UEVHM is carried out, and then the cutting force model is established, which takes into account the interaction between particles and the cutting edge, and calculates the crushing force, pressing force, and debonding force of the particles. Finally, the UEVHM tests are conducted to verify the accuracy of the model and to analyze the influence of process parameters on the cutting force. It was found that the radial and axial forces decreased by 34% and 39%, respectively, when the spindle speed was increased from 2000 r/min to 10,000 r/min; the radial and axial forces increased by 200% and 172%, respectively, when the pitch increased from 0.1 mm to 0.4 mm; and the radial and axial forces increased by 29% and 69%, respectively, when the rotational speed increased from 30 r/min to 70 r/min. The maximum error between the cutting force model and the experimental values is 19.06%, which has a good accuracy. The research content of this paper can provide some guidance for the high-quality hole-making of SiCp/Al composites.
Foundational Models for Pathology and Endoscopy Images: Application for Gastric Inflammation
Authors: Kerdegari Hamideh , Higgins Kyle , Veselkov Dennis , Laponogov Ivan , Polaka Inese , Coimbra Miguel , Pescino Junior Andrea , Leja Mārcis , Dinis-Ribeiro Mário , Fleitas Kanonnikoff Tania , Veselkov Kirill
Published: August 2024

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical diagnostics represents a significant advancement in managing upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer, which is a major cause of global cancer mortality. Specifically for gastric cancer (GC), chronic inflammation causes changes in the mucosa such as atrophy, intestinal metaplasia (IM), dysplasia, and ultimately cancer. Early detection through endoscopic regular surveillance is essential for better outcomes. Foundation models (FMs), which are machine or deep learning models trained on diverse data and applicable to broad use cases, offer a promising solution to enhance the accuracy of endoscopy and its subsequent pathology image analysis. This review explores the recent advancements, applications, and challenges associated with FMs in endoscopy and pathology imaging. We started by elucidating the core principles and architectures underlying these models, including their training methodologies and the pivotal role of large-scale data in developing their predictive capabilities. Moreover, this work discusses emerging trends and future research directions, emphasizing the integration of multimodal data, the development of more robust and equitable models, and the potential for real-time diagnostic support. This review aims to provide a roadmap for researchers and practitioners in navigating the complexities of incorporating FMs into clinical practice for the prevention/management of GC cases, thereby improving patient outcomes.
Morphometric Analysis of the Mandibular Canal and Its Anatomical Variants in a Chilean Subpopulation: Cone Beam Computed Tomography Study
Authors: Guzmán Jacob , Abarca Jaime , Navarro Pablo , Garay Ivonne , Arnabat-Domínguez Josep , Betancourt Pablo
Published: August 2024

The inferior alveolar nerve (IAN), contained within the mandibular canal (MC), is a structure prone to damage in clinical and surgical procedures on the mandible. This study aimed to analyze the MC morphology and its anatomical variants in a Chilean subpopulation using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). In total, 342 images from patients with the following parameters were observed: 120 kV, 9 mA, field of view 12 × 9 MC, and voxel size 0.12 mm. The average length of the MC recorded a mean value of 70.493 ± 4.987 mm on the right side and 70.805 ± 5.177 mm on the left side. The location of the mental foramen (MF) was most frequently found between the mandibular first and second premolar. The greatest bone thickness was found at the level of the basilar border of the 2MPM. The root closest to the MC was distal from the mandibular second molar. The lowest thickness was in the lingual area at 1MM. The prevalence of the anterior loop (AL) (61.5%) and the retromolar canal (RC) (17.5%) showed no significant differences between men and women. The results obtained showed that the morphology of the MC in the Chilean subpopulation can vary.
Differential Functional Changes in Visual Performance during Acute Exposure to Microgravity Analogue and Their Potential Links with Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome
Authors: Iftime Adrian , Tofolean Ioana Teodora , Pintilie Victor , Călinescu Octavian , Busnatu Stefan , Papacocea Ioana Raluca
Published: August 2024

Background: Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS) is a complex pathology threatening the health of astronauts, with incompletely understood causes and no current specific functional diagnostic or screening test. We investigated the use of the differential performance of the visual system (central vs. perimacular visual function) as a candidate marker of SANS-related pathology in a ground-based microgravity analogue. Methods: We used a simple reaction time (SRT) task to visual stimuli, presented in the central and perimacular field of view, as a measure of the overall performance of the visual function, during acute settings (first 10 min) of vertical, bed rest (BR), −6°, and −15° head-down tilt (HDT) presentations in healthy participants (n = 8). We built dose–response models linking the gravitational component to SRT distribution parameters in the central vs. perimacular areas. Results: Acute exposure to microgravity induces detectable changes between SRT distributions in the perimacular vs. central retina (increased mean, standard deviation, and tau component of the ex-Gaussian function) in HDT compared with vertical presentation. Conclusions: Functional testing of the perimacular retina might be beneficial for the earlier detection of SANS-related ailments in addition to regular testing of the central vision. Future diagnostic tests should consider the investigation of the extra-macular areas, particularly towards the optic disc.
Research on the Identification of Wheat Fusarium Head Blight Based on Multispectral Remote Sensing from UAVs
Authors: Dong Ping , Wang Ming , Li Kuo , Qiao Hongbo , Zhao Yuyang , Bacao Fernando , Shi Lei , Guo Wei , Si Haiping
Published: August 2024

Fusarium head blight (FHB), a severe ailment triggered by fungal pathogens, poses a considerable risk to both the yield and quality of winter wheat worldwide, underscoring the urgency for precise detection measures that can effectively mitigate and manage the spread of FHB. Addressing the limitations of current deep learning models in capturing detailed features from UAV imagery, this study proposes an advanced identification model for FHB in wheat based on multispectral imagery from UAVs. The model leverages the U2Net network as its baseline, incorporating the Coordinate Attention (CA) mechanism and the RFB-S (Receptive Field Block—Small) multi-scale feature extraction module. By integrating key spectral features from multispectral bands (SBs) and vegetation indices (VIs), the model enhances feature extraction capabilities and spatial information awareness. The CA mechanism is used to improve the model’s ability to express image features, while the RFB-S module increases the receptive field of convolutional layers, enhancing multi-scale spatial feature modeling. The results demonstrate that the improved U2Net model, termed U2Net-plus, achieves an identification accuracy of 91.73% for FHB in large-scale wheat fields, significantly outperforming the original model and other mainstream semantic segmentation models such as U-Net, SegNet, and DeepLabV3+. This method facilitates the rapid identification of large-scale FHB outbreaks in wheat, providing an effective approach for large-field wheat disease detection.
Bio-Inspired Multimodal Motion Gait Control of Snake Robots with Environmental Adaptability Based on ROS
Authors: Liu Xupeng , Zang Yong , Gao Zhiying
Published: August 2024

Snake robots have broad application potential, but their motion-control and motion-planning problems are extremely challenging due to the high redundancy of degrees of freedom (DoFs), and the lack of complete system tools further hinders the research of snake robots. In this paper, a coordinate system and a kinematic model were established based on the D-H method for snake robots. The rhythm-generation model for multimodal motion gait and a novel sliding-window five-point interpolation-derivative model were proposed based on a bio-inspired central pattern generator (CPG) model. A prototype and simulator were constructed based on the designed snake robot models to achieve the multimodal motion gait for the snake robot and improve its environmental adaptability. Furthermore, a novel structure–drive–perception–control integration snake robot system (SnakeSys) was built based on the robot-operating system (ROS). Finally, the effectiveness, feasibility, and accuracy of the kinematic model and control model in motion control and information perception were verified through simulations and experiments. We open sourced SnakeSys so that relevant researchers or developers can directly utilize or further develop it.
Feature Fusion Image Dehazing Network Based on Hybrid Parallel Attention
Authors: Chen Hong , Chen Mingju , Li Hongyang , Peng Hongming , Su Qin
Published: August 2024

Most of the existing dehazing methods ignore some global and local detail information when processing images and fail to fully combine feature information at different levels, which leads to contrast imbalance and residual haze in the dehazed images. To this end, this article proposes a image dehazing network based on hybrid parallel attention feature fusion, called the HPA-HFF network. This network is an optimization of the basic network, FFA-Net. First, the hybrid parallel attention (HPA) module is introduced, which uses parallel connections to mix different types of attention mechanisms, which can not only enhance the extraction and fusion capabilities of global spatial context information but also enhance the expression capabilities of features and have better dehazing effects on uneven distribution of haze. Second, the hierarchical feature fusion (HFF) module is introduced, which dynamically fuses feature maps from different paths to adaptively increase their receptive field and refine and enhance image features. Experimental results demonstrate that the HPA-HFF network proposed in this article is contrasted with eight mainstream dehazing networks on the public dataset RESIDE. The HPA-HFF network achieves the highest PSNR (39.41) and SSIM (0.9967) and obtains a good dehazing effect in subjective vision.
A Short-Term Power Load Forecasting Method Based on SBOA–SVMD-TCN–BiLSTM
Authors: Yang Mao , Chen Yiming , Fang Guozhong , Ma Chenglian , Liu Yunjing , Wang Jinxin
Published: August 2024

Short-term electricity load forecasting provides a basis for day-ahead energy scheduling. To improve the accuracy of short-term electricity load forecasts and deeply explore the temporal characteristics of load sequences, a method is proposed to extract predictable components of load sequences based on the secretary bird optimization algorithm (SBOA)-optimized successive variational mode decomposition (SVMD). This method decomposes the electricity load sequence into multiple subsequences under different time series. The combined forecasting architecture of the temporal convolutional network (TCN) and the bidirectional long short-term memory network (BiLSTM) is introduced to mine the temporal characteristics of each load component, resulting in short-term load forecasting outcomes. A case study is conducted using the annual electricity load data for the year 2018 from a specific region in Belgium. The experimental results show that the mean absolute error (MAE) of the TCN–BiLSTM model is reduced by 47.8%, 32.8%, and 11.5%, respectively, compared to other models. The root mean square error (RMSE) is reduced by 42.9%, 39.2%, and 11.3%, respectively, and the average goodness of fit R2 is reduced by 9.81%.
System-Level Implementation of a Parallel-Path Hybrid Switched-Capacitor Amplifier with an Embedded Successive Approximation Register for IoT Applications
Authors: Bagheri Asli Javad , Saberkari Alireza , Alvandpour Atila
Published: August 2024

A system-level implementation of a parallel-path hybrid switched-capacitor amplifier is presented in this paper. The proposed parallel-path amplifier incorporates a gain and slew rate-boosting switching path in parallel with an embedded assisted SAR path, aiming for IoT applications. As an alternative concept to the conventional analog topologies, the proposed amplifier combines nonlinear and linear paths to provide coarse and fine amplifications. In the coarse amplification, a high current is provided through a switching path for a fraction of time, which improves the slew rate and open-loop DC gain without adding significant static current. Moreover, high accuracy is achieved through the embedded assisted SAR path, which provides a resolution of 1/2N. In addition, each extra bit of the embedded SAR path improves the total open-loop DC gain by 6 dB. The theory of operation is performed to study how the switching and assisted SAR paths can enhance the amplifier’s settling error. In addition, an existence trade-off between the coarse amplification error and the capacitive digital-to-analog converter’s number of bits is investigated. The theory and system-level simulation show that the gain and slewing restrictions of the conventional topologies, especially in advanced CMOS technology, can be handled much easier by this parallel combination, where the switching path and assisted SAR path combination provides a high slewing capability and high DC open-loop gain.
Flying Capacitor Double Dual Boost DC-DC Converter
Authors: García-Vite Pedro Martín , Rosas-Caro Julio C. , Rebullosa-Castillo Josué Francisco , García-Perales Manuel Alejandro , Pedraza-Barrón Jesús Eduardo , Reyes-García Brenda Lizeth
Published: August 2024

This article presents a detailed analysis of a previously introduced boost converter based on cascaded capacitor connections. The analyzed converter maintains the same voltage gain as its conventional double-boost converter counterpart. The main advantage of the redesigned converter is that it requires smaller capacitors, rated to a lower voltage, due to the cascaded connection. This makes it suitable for various applications, including distributed generation and microgrids. This paper conducts the mathematical modeling of the converter with large signal models and the equilibrium operation in continuous conduction mode, employed to implement a control scheme. Even though the individual capacitor voltage ripple reaches high values, for voltage gains above five, the output voltage ripple is lower compared with that of other converters. The analysis also includes a comparative study with the conventional double dual boost converter. Simulations assess the proposed topology’s ability to effectively minimize the switching ripple in the output voltage, even with smaller capacitors. Finally, experimental results are also provided to confirm the functionality of the proposed converters under various operational conditions, which confirm its suitability for low-voltage generator applications.
Evaluation Approach and Controller Design Guidelines for Subsequent Commutation Failure in Hybrid Multi-Infeed HVDC System
Authors: Fang Hui , Xiang Hongji , Lei Zhiwei , Ma Junpeng , Wen Zhongyi , Wang Shunliang
Published: August 2024

Due to the difference in output characteristics between the line-commutated converter-based high-voltage direct current (LCC-HVDC) and voltage-source converter-based high-voltage direct current (VSC-HVDC), the hybrid multi-infeed high-voltage direct current (HMIDC) presents complex coupling characteristics. As the AC side is disturbed, the commutation failure (CF) occurring on the LCC side is the main factor threatening the safe operation of the system. In this paper, the simplified equivalent network model of HMIDC is established by analyzing the output characteristics of VSC and LCC. Hereafter, based on the derived model and the control system of LCC-HVDC, the dynamic equations of the extinction angle are deduced. Consequently, by applying the phase portrait method, the causes of CF occurring in the HMIDC system as well as the impacts of control parameters on the transient stability are revealed. Furthermore, the stabilization boundaries for the reference value of the DC voltage are obtained via the above analysis. Finally, the theoretical analysis is verified by the simulations in the PSCAD/EMTDC.
Performance Analysis and Optimization of Switch Device for VLF Communication Synchronous Tuning System Based on Coupled Inductors
Authors: Wei Shize , Xie Xu , Zuo Hao
Published: August 2024

The very low frequency (VLF) communication system is characterized by a limited transmit bandwidth. Due to the low operating frequency, the dimensions of VLF antennas are significantly smaller than the corresponding wavelength. Therefore, VLF antennas are considered electrically small antennas (ESAs) with high Q values and narrow bandwidth. To achieve broadband VLF communication, synchronous tuning technology is commonly employed. In this study, we focus on analyzing the performance of the switching device in the synchronous tuning system using coupled inductors and IGBT as core components. By considering the equivalent circuit of the controlled source associated with coupled inductors, we propose an adaptive input impedance optimization algorithm based on the variable capacitor (hereinafter referred to as VC-ADIO) to address issues arising from coupling coefficient variations and internal parameters within IGBTs that affect primary loop input impedance. The radiated power of the VLF antenna is improved effectively.
Electric Vehicle Power Consumption Modelling Method Based on Improved Ant Colony Optimization-Support Vector Regression
Authors: Zhang Jiaan , Liu Wenxin , Wang Zhenzhen , Fan Ruiqing
Published: August 2024

Accurate forecasting of electric vehicle (EV) power consumption per unit mileage serves as the cornerstone for determining diurnal variations in EV charging loads. To enhance the prediction accuracy of EV power consumption per unit mileage, this paper proposes a modelling method grounded in an improved Ant Colony Optimization-Support Vector Regression (ACO-SVR) framework. This method integrates the effects of both temperature and speed on the power consumption per unit mileage of EVs. Initially, we analyze the influence mechanism of driving speed and ambient temperature on EV power consumption, elucidating the relationship between power consumption per unit mileage and these factors. Subsequently, we construct an ACO-SVR model utilizing an improved ant colony optimization algorithm, fitting the relationship between power consumption, speed, and temperature to derive the EV power consumption per unit mileage model. Finally, leveraging operational data from EVs in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao as a case study, we validate the energy consumption model of EVs by considering factors such as ambient temperature and driving speed. The results demonstrate that the model proposed in this paper is both accurate and effective.
Experimental Study of the Energy Regenerated by a Horizontal Seat Suspension System under Random Vibration
Authors: Maciejewski Igor , Pecolt Sebastian , Błażejewski Andrzej , Jereczek Bartosz , Krzyzynski Tomasz
Published: August 2024

This article introduces a novel regenerative suspension system designed for active seat suspension, to reduce vibrations while recovering energy. The system employs a four-quadrant electric actuator operation model and utilizes a brushless DC motor as an actuator and an energy harvester. This motor, a permanent magnet synchronous type, transforms DC into three-phase AC power, serving dual purposes of vibration energy recovery and active power generation. The system’s advanced vibration control is achieved through the switching of MOSFET transistors, ensuring the suspension system meets operational criteria that contrast with traditional vibro-isolation systems, thereby reducing the negative effects of mechanical vibrations on the human body, while also lowering energy consumption. Comparative studies of the regenerative system dynamics against passive and active systems under random vibrations demonstrated its effectiveness. This research assessed the system’s performance through power spectral density and transmissibility functions, highlighting its potential to enhance energy efficiency and the psychophysical well-being of individuals subjected to mechanical vibrations. The effectiveness of the energy regeneration process under the chosen early excitation vibrations was investigated. Measurements of the motor torque in the active mode and during regenerative braking mode, and the corresponding phase currents of the motor, are presented.
Sherwood (Sh) Number in Chemical Engineering Applications—A Brief Review
Authors: Montagnaro Fabio
Published: August 2024

This paper reviews a series of cases for which the correct determination of the mass transfer coefficient is decisive for an appropriate design of the system and its operating conditions. The cases are of interest for applications in the energy sector, such as the thermoconversion of a fuel particle, processes in pipes, packed and fluidised beds, and corollary unit operations, such as extraction, absorption, and adsorption. The analysis is carried out by examining the expressions for the determination of the Sherwood number (which contains the mass transfer coefficient), and, when possible, generalised relationships (also in graphic form) have been provided, to offer a useful tool to cognoscenti.
Genetic Optimization of Twin-Web Turbine Disc Cavities in Aeroengines
Authors: Guo Yueteng , Wang Suofang , Shen Wenjie
Published: August 2024

Twin-web turbine discs have been the subject of research recently in an effort to lighten weight and boost aeroengine efficiency. In the past, the cooling design of turbine discs was generally constrained to optimizing a single structural parameter, which hindered the enhancement of the optimization impact. Therefore, this article proposes a twin-web turbine disc system with a high radius pre-swirl. Driven by the database produced through the numerical simulation, a backpropagation network surrogate model is constructed, and the angles of the pre-swirl nozzles and receiver holes are optimized by a genetic algorithm to enhance the cooling efficiency of the turbine disc. Evaluation was based on the highest disc temperature, disc temperature uniformity, and Nusselt number. The results demonstrate that the suggested surrogate model effectively optimizes the structural characteristics of the twin-web turbine disc by aiming for the specified cooling performance indexes. The cooling effect of the turbine disc is significantly improved in different operating environments. Specifically, the optimized model produces the largest temperature drop in the disc rim temperature. Both axial and radial temperature uniformity have led to a notable enhancement. The alteration in coolant flow within the cavity results in a notable decrease in the area with low heat transfer efficiency and a substantial increase in the Nusselt number.
Quantifying Uncertainty with Conformal Prediction for Heating and Cooling Load Forecasting in Building Performance Simulation
Authors: Borrotti Matteo
Published: August 2024

Building Performance Simulation extensively uses statistical learning techniques for quicker insights and improved accessibility. These techniques help understand the relationship between input variables and the desired outputs, and they can predict unknown observations. Prediction becomes more informative with uncertainty quantification, which involves computing prediction intervals. Conformal prediction has emerged over the past 25 years as a flexible and rigorous method for estimating uncertainty. This approach can be applied to any pre-trained model, creating statistically rigorous uncertainty sets or intervals for model predictions. This study uses data from simulated buildings to demonstrate the powerful applications of conformal prediction in Building Performance Simulation (BPS) and, consequently, to the broader energy sector. Results show that conformal prediction can be applied when any assumptions about input and output variables are made, enhancing understanding and facilitating informed decision-making in energy system design and operation.
The Process of Winter Reddening Does Not Enhance Cold Resistance in Pinus massoniana Lamb. Seedlings
Authors: He Hongyang , Xu Yingying , Xie Shuangqin , Li Xueying , Wang Haoyun , Zhao Yuanxiang , Wu Feng
Published: August 2024

Pinus massoniana Lamb. is an evergreen conifer; however, some current-year seedlings exhibit “winter reddening” at the onset of winter. The biological significance of this reddening is unclear. We examine the physiological responses of needles during the reddening process and explore the relationships between physiological traits and seeding cold resistance. Based on needle color, we recognize non-reddened, partially reddened, and fully reddened needle stages. As reddening progresses, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (maximum light energy conversion efficiency of photosystem II (PSII) photochemistry, PSII potential activity, effective photosynthetic quantum yield, non-photochemical and photochemical quenching coefficients, and actual quantum yield of PSII photochemistry) decrease, reducing photosynthetic efficiency. Concurrently, the proportion of regulated energy dissipation in quantum yield of PSII decreases, and that of PSII non-regulated energy dissipation increases. Antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase and peroxidase) and osmoregulatory substances (soluble sugars and proteins and proline) increase, and malondialdehyde levels and relative cell damage at 4 °C and −10 °C gradually increase. Although P. massoniana seedlings adapt to low-temperature environments as their needles redden by increasing antioxidant enzyme activities and osmoregulatory substances and by adjusting photosynthetic efficiency and light energy distribution, cell membrane damage persists. Cold resistance in P. massoniana seedlings is not fully established during winter reddening.
Impact of National Key Ecological Function Areas (NKEFAs) Construction on China’s Economic Resilience under the Background of Sustainable Development
Authors: Wang Yameng , Wang Yimeng , Wu Jing , Ma Linyan , Deng Yuanjie
Published: August 2024

National Key Ecological Functional Areas (NKEFAs) play an important role in forestry restoration, water source conservation, soil and water conservation, windbreak and sand fixation, and biodiversity maintenance. They are the strategic core of ecosystem protection and restoration projects, not only directly related to ecological environment construction, but also profoundly affecting the sustainable development capacity of regional economy. This article selects 1256 ecologically and economically representative counties in China with complete data as research objects. Based on the data of the selected counties from 2007 to 2021, the entropy weight TOPSIS method is used to construct an economic resilience index, and a multi-period difference-in-differences (DID) model is adopted to explore the specific impact of the establishment of national key ecological functional areas on China’s economic resilience. Research has shown that national key ecological functional areas can enhance the resilience of county-level economies by promoting economic agglomeration and factor agglomeration, increasing fiscal expenditure and investment levels, and promoting sustainable development of county-level economies. The establishment of national key ecological functional areas in economically underdeveloped areas has had a positive effect on economic resilience, and the establishment of water source conservation, soil and water conservation, and biodiversity maintenance ecological functional areas has a significant impact on economic resilience. Therefore, national key ecological functional areas have generally promoted the improvement of China’s economic resilience, but in the process of policy implementation, the establishment of national key ecological functional areas should be promoted according to local conditions. This article not only provides empirical evidence for the effectiveness of China’s national key ecological function areas policies, but also provides methodological inspiration for formulating more precise and scientific ecological protection policies, which has reference significance for the implementation of similar policies in other regions around the world.
Environmental and Economic Impacts of Hydroxyapatite Mineralized Wood: LCA and LCC Analysis
Authors: Sitar Matic , Kitek Kuzman Manja , Oblak Leon , Remic Katarina
Published: August 2024

Wood is considered a promising raw material for the circular bioeconomy and has the ability to store biogenic carbon, and this is one reason why we want to extend the service life of the wood. In order to consider the influence of durability in our study, we used two wood species with different lifespans. Beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) belongs to the group of very sensitive wood species, as the durability of the untreated wood is estimated to be around 5 years; meanwhile, pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) belongs to the group of moderately resistant wood species, where the durability of the untreated wood is estimated to be up to 15 years. While toxic chemicals are often used for wood preservation, hydroxyapatite offers an environmentally friendly solution for wood mineralization. This study presents life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle cost (LCC) analyses comparing a novel hydroxyapatite (HAp) mineralization method with a service life of 50 years to a non-mineralized reference alternative. LCA was based on EN ISO 14040 and EN ISO 14044, while LCC was adapted from the European Commission’s LCC tool for public procurement. The results of the LCA show that mineralized wood has a lower overall impact on the environment than surface-treated beech wood but a higher impact than surface-treated pine wood. Most impact categories were determined by electricity consumption with the exception of stratospheric ozone depletion, water consumption, and land use. Water consumption proved to be the category where the mineralization process was problematic due to water consumption during the leaching process. The LCC showed that mineralized wood is the most cost-effective solution for the exterior façade, as all costs, but especially investment costs, were lower. The differences in the LCA and LCC results are mainly due to the different lifetimes of the two alternatives. It can be concluded that if energy-intensive processes and chemicals are used in the production of the material, the extended lifetime must be sufficient to account for the additional impacts that occur during the production phase.
Explosion Shock Dynamics and Hazards in Complex Civil Buildings: A Case Study of a Severe Fuel Explosion Accident in Yinchuan, China
Authors: Hu Qianran , Zhang Ruoheng , Qian Xinming , Yuan Mengqi , Li Pengliang
Published: August 2024

Gas explosion accidents can easily lead to large-scale casualties and economic losses, significantly impeding the urban development. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively review and investigate a significant gas fuel explosion accident in Yinchuan City, China, and to conduct an in-depth discussion on process traceability, failure risk, hazard prevention, and urban development related to the accident. The research found that the accidental failure of double-valve liquefied petroleum gas cylinders and human error were identified as the direct causes of gas leakage. The numerical results indicated that the progression of the accident disaster was chaotic and highly destructive. The maximum explosion overpressure of 92 kPa resulted in severe shock-wave damage to personnel, leading to the complete destruction and collapse of the 0.2 m thick solid brick wall and obstructing the stairway for escape. The rapid change in temperature and oxygen levels caused by the explosion led to the risk of burns and asphyxiation for personnel at the scene. By utilizing the system safety theory, a gas leakage accident control structure system was developed. This system comprised four key levels: the local government, gas management department, gas company, and individual user. The tragedy of 31 deaths was ultimately caused by a serious lack of safety constraints on the behavior of the lower level by the higher level. The research conclusions are of great significance for preventing clean fuel explosion accidents and ensuring sustainable urban development, especially in the face of the negative impact of accidents.
The Nitrate Cellulose Negatives: Degradation Study via Chemometric Methods
Authors: Povolotckaia Anastasia , Kaputkina Svetlana , Grigorieva Irina , Pankin Dmitrii , Borisov Evgenii , Vasileva Anna , Kaputkina Valeria , Dynnikova Maria
Published: August 2024

Photographic artifacts carry important historical and cultural information. Materials used in photography at the turn of the XIXth and XXth centuries tend to degrade both over time and if the temperature and humidity conditions of storage are violated. In this connection, the question arises of determining the safety degree and monitoring the condition of photographic materials. Close attention should be paid to photographic materials that become flammable as a result of decomposition. This class of objects includes photographic films based on cellulose nitrate. This study was aimed at examining 100 negatives and stereonegatives from the collection of Karl Kosse dating from 1902 to 1917 as typical examples of these hazard class objects. The degradation of individual negatives was accompanied by a significant change in color—yellowing. The base of photographic negatives (cellulose nitrate and camphor) was determined by Raman spectroscopy, and the presence of a gelatin layer was determined by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Using chemometric analysis methods based on the RGB components of digital photos of negatives, an approach has been proposed for determining the state of degradation. The use of the support vector machine approach allows for obtaining a decision boundary, which can be later used to analyze a large data array.
Adaptive Reuse of Religious and Sacred Heritage: Preserving Material Traces and Spirit of Place
Authors: Franco Giovanna
Published: August 2024

The theme of adaptive reuse, of great topicality for those who deal with built heritage, has its roots in the recent past, dating back to the end of the last century, when the problem of reuse proved to be competitive, for economic and cultural reasons, with respect to total demolition and reconstruction. Since then, various disciplinary and methodological approaches have been confronted with theories and methods of intervention, on an ever-expanding cultural heritage. This article offers a research perspective, with application of a case study of particular relevance to the city of Genoa, Italy. Adaptive reuse, in the text, is specifically dedicated to religious and sacred heritage that has lost its original function but has retained material traces and intangible values. The methodological approach, shared by several European architectural schools, is multi-disciplinary in nature and stems from the need to preserve material traces but, at the same time, preserve the spirit of the place, according to what is defined by the international community. The methodology and results are applied to the enhancement and reuse work for the former Genoa University Library, formerly the church of the Genoese Jesuit College (17th century).
LvbHLH13 Regulates Anthocyanin Biosynthesis by Activating the LvMYB5 Promoter in Lily (Lilium ‘Viviana’)
Authors: An Wenzhong , Sun Yibo , Gao Zhenhua , Liu Xiaoye , Guo Qi , Sun Shaokun , Zhang Minghui , Han Yutong , Irfan Muhammad , Chen Lijing , Ma Di
Published: August 2024

Anthocyanins, constituents of flavonoid compounds prevalent in plants, possess significant value in both plant development and human nutrition. The regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis primarily involves the orchestration of MYB, bHLH, and WD40 transcription factors. Consequently, the bHLH family assumes a pivotal role in modulating plant developmental processes. In the present investigation, a transcription factor, denoted as LvbHLH13, was identified as a positive regulator of anthocyanin pigmentation in lily petals. LvbHLH13 is classified within the IIId subgroup of Arabidopsis bHLH proteins. Functional analyses involving the transient expression and gene silencing of LvbHLH13 revealed its capacity to enhance and diminish anthocyanin accumulation, respectively, by modulating the LvMYB5 expression, thereby influencing the downstream structural gene expression. The overexpression of LvbHLH13 resulted in an increase in the expression of the downstream structural genes related to anthocyanin synthesis, whereas silencing of LvbHLH13 correspondingly decreased the expression. Yeast one-hybrid and EMSA assays demonstrated the interaction between LvbHLH13 and the LvMYB5 promoter, leading to the activation of anthocyanin biosynthesis. A further luciferase (LUC) analysis corroborated the stimulatory effect of LvbHLH13 on the LvMYB5 promoter sequence. Consequently, LvbHLH13 assumed a crucial role in lily-petal pigmentation. A yeast two-hybrid analysis revealed that LvbHLH13 diverged from typical bHLH transcription factor behavior as it did not form a complex with MYB to regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis. This discrepancy could be attributed to the deletion of the N-terminal conserved sequence of LvbHLH13. This study provides a new bHLH candidate and bHLH-MYB partner to explore the anthocyanin regulatory network in further research and provides new opportunities for breeding lilies with various anthocyanin contents. These findings lay a theoretical foundation for subsequent investigations into lily flower coloring mechanisms.
Efficacy of Postharvest Application of Aureobasidium pullulans to Control White Haze on Apples and Effect on the Fruit Mycobiome
Authors: Remolif Giulia , Schiavon Giada , Garello Marco , Spadaro Davide
Published: August 2024

White haze, an emerging disorder caused by extensive fungal growth on the apple surface, results in a compromised fruit quality and decreased marketability. The use of biological control agents could be an interesting tool to reduce its development. This work aimed to test the efficacy of two Aureobasidium pullulans strains (AP2 and PL5) in controlling white haze on stored apples. An in vivo trial was conducted by inoculating fruits with white haze causal agents (Entyloma belangeri, Golubevia pallescens, Tilletiopsis washingtonensis) and treating them with the antagonistic yeasts. Three commercial biofungicides were also included in the trial. Both A. pullulans strains, along with the Metschnikowia fructicola-based product, reduced white haze incidence after 110 days of storage at 1 ± 1 °C and after 7 days of shelf life. Furthermore, the effect of A. pullulans application on the fruit fungal microbiome was assessed. A significant impact of apple matrix and treatment on the mycobiome composition was observed. Analyses showed a good colonization of A. pullulans on the treated apples, both epiphytically and endophytically. A decrease in white haze-related fungi abundance was observed in the treated fruits. Additionally, a reduction of Ramularia spp. and modifications in the abundance of other fungal genera were detected after storage and shelf life.
The Impacts of COVID-19 Lockdowns on Road Transport Air Pollution in London: A State-Space Modelling Approach
Authors: Hajmohammadi Hajar , Salehi Hamid
Published: August 2024

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 led to the implementation of legal restrictions on individual activities, significantly impacting traffic and air pollution levels in urban areas. This study employs a state-space intervention method to investigate the effects of three major COVID-19 lockdowns in March 2020, November 2020, and January 2021 on London’s air quality. Data were collected from 20 monitoring stations across London (central, ultra-low emission zone, and greater London), with daily measurements of NOx, PM10, and PM2.5 for four years (January 2019–December 2022). Furthermore, the developed model was adjusted for seasonal effects, ambient temperature, and relative humidity. This study found significant reductions in the NOx levels during the first lockdown: 49% in central London, 33% in the ultra-low emission zone (ULEZ), and 37% in greater London. Although reductions in NOx were also observed during the second and third lockdowns, they were less than the first lockdown. In contrast, PM10 and PM2.5 increased by 12% and 1%, respectively, during the first lockdown, possibly due to higher residential energy consumption. However, during the second lockdown, PM10 and PM2.5 levels decreased by 11% and 13%, respectively, and remained unchanged during the third lockdown. These findings highlight the complex dynamics of urban air quality and underscore the need for targeted interventions to address specific pollution sources, particularly those related to road transport. The study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of lockdown measures and informs future air quality management strategies.
Theory-Based Determinants of Stopping Drowsy Driving Behavior in College Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Akhter Md Sohail , Kapukotuwa Sidath , Dai Chia-Liang , Awan Asma , Odejimi Omolola A. , Sharma Manoj
Published: August 2024

Drowsy driving among college students is a critical public health issue due to its significant impact on road safety. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the determinants of stopping drowsy driving behavior among college students using the multi-theory model (MTM) of health behavior change. Data for this study were collected from September to October 2023 via a 42-item psychometric valid, web-based survey disseminated via Qualtrics, involving 725 students from a large southwestern university. Nearly half of the participants (49.38%) reported drowsy driving in the past month. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that participatory dialogue (p = 0.0008) and behavioral confidence (p < 0.0001) significantly predicted the initiation of refraining from drowsy driving, with the final model explaining 36.4% of the variance. Similarly, emotional transformation (p < 0.0001) and practice for change (p = 0.0202) significantly predicted the sustenance of behavior change, with the final model accounting for 40.6% of the variance. These findings underscore the importance of targeted MTM-based interventions focusing on enhancing students’ awareness and confidence in managing drowsiness to mitigate drowsy driving, ultimately improving road safety and student well-being.