bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of G1 Micromixer Structure in Two-Fluid Mixing Based on CFD and Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Qin Liang , Lu Xiaoxia , Li Lei , Han Huan , Chai Mingming , Yan Xiaofang , Chen Shuo , Wang Hongying , Ma Weiting
Published: January 2024

Optimizing the structure of micromixers to improve the mixing efficiency is of great significance for chemical engineering and biology fields. In this study, an optimization of the microchannel in two liquids mixing is carried out based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and response surface methodology. Firstly, CFD simulations were performed to investigate the mixing flow field and mixing efficiency in the microchannel by considering different process and structure parameters (e.g., feed pressure p, microchannel width w). The response surface methodology was adopted to construct a fitting surface by CFD discrete working conditions. Then, an optimized microchannel width w was searched using the parallel particle swarm optimization (PPSO) algorithm from the response surface. Lastly, the searched optimum was validated by CFD simulation again, and the final result showed that the predicted mixing efficiency from the response surface model is well confirmed by CFD simulation. On average, the new optimized microchannel width of 1.634 mm performs higher flow flux and mixing efficiency than the original width of 1.5 mm, increasing 13.51% and 2.45%, respectively.
Thermal Storage Performance of a Shell and Tube Phase Change Heat Storage Unit with Different Thermophysical Parameters of the Phase Change Material
Authors: Meng Fanbin , Che Chunying , Wu Yangyang , Wei Jiachao , Rong Jiancheng , Yang Xinpeng , Li Dong , Yang Ruitong , Wang Zhihua
Published: January 2024

The thermal storage performance of shell and tube phase change heat storage units is greatly influenced by the thermophysical parameters of the phase change material (PCM). Therefore, we use numerical simulations to examine how the thermal storage capability of shell and tube phase change heat storage units is affected by thermophysical parameters such as specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and latent heat of phase change. The findings indicate that while the rate of temperature increase and the rate of the PCM melting both slow down as specific heat capacity increases, the overall heat storage increases. Within the specified range of parameters, the average rate of heat storage increases by approximately 4% for every 50% increase in specific heat capacity. The PCM’s rate of temperature rise slows down and its overall heat storage capacity rises throughout the middle stage of the phase change heat storage process as the latent heat of phase change grows. The average heat storage rate increases by approximately 6% and 22% for every 50% increase in latent heat and thermal conductivity, respectively. Notably, when the thermal conductivity is enhanced by a factor of 1.5, the average heat storage rate experiences an almost 50% increase. The thermal conductivity of the PCM has a negligible impact on total heat storage. The choice and use of the PCM in shell and tube phase change heat storage heat exchangers has a theoretical and empirical foundation thanks to this work.
Status of Research on the Use of Nanomodified Microcapsules in Cement-Based Materials
Authors: Xie Xiaoman , Zhang Sulei , Qi Xiaoqiang , Guo Siyao , Ren Rui
Published: January 2024

Microcapsules have received considerable attention owing to their excellent self-healing properties, and many researchers have attempted to modify their microcapsules’ characteristics to meet the requirements of various applications. Owing to their excellent physical and chemical properties, nanomaterial-modified (nanomodified) microcapsules can be used to protect surface coatings and internal structures of cement-based materials. This paper summarizes the progress in theoretical research and practical application of nanomodified microcapsules in coatings and cement-based materials, focusing on preparation processes and performance enhancements. The advantages and necessity of using nanomaterials are highlighted by clarifying the effects of nanomodified microcapsules on the performances of coatings and cement-based materials. In addition, the bottlenecks in the application of nanomodified microcapsules to coatings and cement-based materials are comprehensively examined, and the challenges and future development directions are specified. This review provides technical guidance for the preparation of smart nanomodified microcapsules and novel ideas for enhancing the functionality of protective coatings and the durability and safety of cement-based materials.
Study on Fracture Propagation Rules of Shale Refracturing Based on CT Technology
Authors: Zhang Jialiang , Wang Xiaoqiong , Xiao Huajian , Ge Hongkui , He Jixiang
Published: January 2024

Reactivating oil and gas wells, increasing oil and gas production, and improving recovery provide more opportunities for energy supply especially in the extraction of unconventional oil and gas reservoirs. Due to changes caused by well completion and production in pore pressure around oil and gas wells, subsequently leading to changes in ground stress, and the presence of natural and induced fractures in the reservoir, the process of refracturing is highly complex. This complexity is particularly pronounced in shale oil reservoirs with developed weak layer structures. Through true triaxial hydraulic fracturing experiments on Jimsar shale and utilizing micro-CT to characterize fractures, this study investigates the mechanisms and patterns of refracturing. The research indicates: (1) natural fractures and the stress states in the rock are the primary influencing factors in the fracture propagation. Because natural fractures are widely developed in Jimsar shale, natural fractures are the main influencing factors of hydraulic fracturing, especially in refracturing, the existing fractures have a greater impact on the propagation of secondary fracturing fractures. (2) Successful sealing of existing fractures using temporary blocking agents is crucial for initiating new fractures in refracturing. Traditional methods of plugging the seam at the root of existing fractures are ineffective, whereas extensive injection of blocking agents, forming large “sheet-like” blocking bodies in old fractures, yields better sealing effects, promoting the initiation of new fractures. (3) Moderately increasing the pumping rate and viscosity of fracturing fluid is advantageous in forming “sheet-like” temporary blocking bodies, enhancing the complexity of the network of new fractures in refracturing. (4) When there is a high horizontal stress difference, after sealing old fractures, the secondary hydraulic fractures initiate parallel to and extend from the old fractures. In cases of low horizontal stress difference, the complexity of secondary hydraulic fractures increases. When the horizontal stress changes direction, the secondary hydraulic fractures also change direction. It is recommended to use high-viscosity fracturing fluid and moderately increase the pumping rate, injecting blocking agents to seal old fractures, thereby enhancing the complexity of the network of refracturing. These findings provide important technical guidance for improving the efficiency of shale oil reservoir development.
Credibility Distribution Estimation with Weighted or Grouped Observations
Authors: Pitselis Georgios
Published: January 2024

In non-life insurance practice, actuaries are often faced with the challenge of predicting the number of claims and claim amounts to be incurred at any given time, which serve to implement fair pricing and reserves given the nature of the risk. This paper extends Jewell’s credible distribution in terms of forecasting the distribution of individual risk in cases where the observations are weighted or are grouped in intervals. More specifically, we show how empirical distribution functions can be embedded within Bühlmann’s and Straub’s credibility model. The optimal projection theorem is applied for credibility estimation and more insight into the derivation of the credibility distribution estimators is also provided. In addition, distribution credibility estimators are established and numerical illustrations are presented herein. Two examples of distribution credibility estimation are given, one with insurance loss data and the other with industry financial data.
A Critical Review and Systematic Design Approach for Linkage-Based Gait Rehabilitation Devices
Authors: Paiva Thiago Sá de , Gonçalves Rogério Sales , Carbone Giuseppe
Published: January 2024

This study aims to provide a comprehensive critical review of the existing body of evidence pertaining to gait rehabilitation. It also seeks to introduce a systematic approach for the development of innovative design solutions in this domain. The field of gait rehabilitation has witnessed a surge in the development of novel robotic devices. This trend has emerged in response to limitations observed in most commercial solutions, particularly regarding their high costs. Consequently, there is a growing need to explore more cost-effective alternatives and create opportunities for greater accessibility. Within the realm of cost-effective options, linkage-based gait trainers have emerged as viable alternatives, prompting a thorough examination of this category, which is carried out in this work. Notably, there is a wide heterogeneity in research approaches and presentation methods. This divergence has prompted discourse regarding the standardization of key elements relevant to the proposals of new linkage-based devices. As a result, this study proposes a comprehensive and standardized design process and offers a brief illustration of the application of this design process through the presentation of a potential new design.
A Multisensory Analysis of the Moisture Course of the Cave of Altamira (Spain): Implications for Its Conservation
Authors: Bayarri Vicente , Prada Alfredo , García Francisco , De Las Heras Carmen , Fatás Pilar
Published: January 2024

This paper addresses the conservation problems of the cave of Altamira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, Spain, due to the effects of moisture and water inside the cave. The study focuses on the description of methods for estimating the trajectory and zones of humidity from the external environment to its eventual dripping on valuable cave paintings. To achieve this objective, several multisensor remote sensing techniques, both aerial and terrestrial, such as 3D laser scanning, a 2D ground penetrating radar, photogrammetry with unmanned aerial vehicles, and high-resolution terrestrial techniques are employed. These tools allow a detailed spatial analysis of the moisture and water in the cave. The paper highlights the importance of the dolomitic layer in the cave and how it influences the preservation of the ceiling, which varies according to its position, whether it is sealed with calcium carbonate, actively dripping, or not dripping. In addition, the crucial role of the central fracture and the areas of direct water infiltration in this process is examined. This research aids in understanding and conserving the site. It offers a novel approach to water-induced deterioration in rock art for professionals and researchers.
Performance Assessment of a High-Frequency Radar Network for Detecting Surface Currents in the Pearl River Estuary
Authors: Zhu Langfeng , Lu Tianyi , Yang Fan , Wei Chunlei , Wei Jun
Published: January 2024

The performance of a high-frequency (HF) radar network situated within the Pearl River Estuary from 17 July to 13 August 2022 is described via a comparison with seven acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCPs). The radar network consists of six OSMAR-S100 compact HF radars, with a transmitting frequency of 13–16 MHz and a direction-finding technique. Both the radial currents and vector velocities showed good agreement with the ADCP results (coefficient of determination r2: 0.42–0.78; RMS difference of radials: 11–21.6 cm s−1; bearing offset Δθ: −4.8°–16.1°; complex correlation coefficient γ: 0.62–0.96; and phase angle α: −24.3°–17.8°). For these radars, the Δθ values are not constant but vary with azimuthal angles. The relative positions between the HF radar and ADCPs, as well as factors such as the presence of island terrain obstructing the signal, significantly influence the errors. The results of spectral analysis also demonstrate a high level of consistency and the capability of HF radar to capture diurnal and semidiurnal tidal frequencies. The tidal characteristics and the Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) results measured by the HF radars also resemble the ADCPs and align with the characteristics of the estuarine current field.
A Spatial Downscaling Framework for SMAP Soil Moisture Based on Stacking Strategy
Authors: Xu Jiaxin , Su Qiaomei , Li Xiaotao , Ma Jianwei , Song Wenlong , Zhang Lei , Su Xiaoye
Published: January 2024

Soil moisture (SM) data can provide guidance for decision-makers in fields such as drought monitoring and irrigation management. Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) satellite offers sufficient spatial resolution for global-scale applications, but its utility is limited in regional areas due to its lower spatial resolution. To address this issue, this study proposed a downscaling framework based on the Stacking strategy. The framework integrated extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM), and categorical boosting (CatBoost) to generate 1 km resolution SM data using 15 high-resolution factors derived from multi-source datasets. In particular, to test the influence of terrain partitioning on downscaling results, Anhui Province, which has diverse terrain features, was selected as the study area. The results indicated that the performance of the three base models varied, and the developed Stacking strategy maximized the potential of each model with encouraging downscaling results. Specifically, we found that: (1) The Stacking model achieved the highest accuracy in all regions, and the performance order of the base models was: XGBoost > CatBoost > LightGBM. (2) Compared with the measured SM at 87 sites, the downscaled SM outperformed other 1 km SM products as well as the downscaled SM without partitioning, with an average ubRMSE of 0.040 m3/m3. (3) The downscaled SM responded positively to rainfall events and mitigated the systematic bias of SMAP. It also preserved the spatial trend of the original SMAP, with higher levels in the humid region and relatively lower levels in the semi-humid region. Overall, this study provided a new strategy for soil moisture downscaling and revealed some interesting findings related to the effectiveness of the Stacking model and the impact of terrain partitioning on downscaling accuracy.
Elevation-Dependent Contribution of the Response and Sensitivity of Vegetation Greenness to Hydrothermal Conditions on the Grasslands of Tibet Plateau from 2000 to 2021
Authors: Wu Yatang , Shao Changliang , Zhang Jing , Liu Yiliang , Li Han , Ma Leichao , Li Ming , Shen Beibei , Hou Lulu , Chen Shiyang , Xu Dawei , Xin Xiaoping , Liu Xiaoni
Published: January 2024

The interrelation between grassland vegetation greenness and hydrothermal conditions on the Tibetan Plateau demonstrates a significant correlation. However, understanding the spatial patterns and the degree of this correlation, especially in relation to minimum and maximum air temperatures across various vertical gradient zones of the Plateau, necessitates further examination. Utilizing the normalized difference phenology index (NDPI) and considering four distinct hydrothermal conditions (minimum, maximum, mean temperature, and precipitation) during the growing season, an analysis was conducted on the correlation of NDPI with hydrothermal conditions across plateau elevations from 2000 to 2021. Results indicate that the correlation between vegetation greenness and hydrothermal conditions on the Tibetan Plateau grasslands is spatially varied. There is a pronounced negative correlation of greenness to maximum temperature and precipitation in the northeastern plateau, while areas exhibit stronger positive correlations to mean temperature. Additionally, as elevation increases, the positive correlation and sensitivity of alpine grassland vegetation greenness to minimum temperature significantly intensify, contrary to the effects observed with maximum temperature. The correlations between greenness and mean temperature in relation to elevational changes primarily exhibit a unimodal pattern across the Tibetan Plateau. These findings emphasize that the correlation and sensitivity of grassland vegetation greenness to hydrothermal conditions are both elevation-dependent and spatially distinct.
Levator Scapulae Stiffness Measurement Reliability in Individuals with and without Chronic Neck Pain by Experienced and Novel Examiners
Authors: Varol Umut , Valera-Calero Juan Antonio , Sánchez-Jiménez Elena , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Ortega-Santiago Ricardo , Kobylarz Mateusz D. , Navarro-Santana Marcos José
Published: January 2024

The levator scapulae muscle is a key structure in the etiopathology of neck and shoulder musculoskeletal pain. Although previous studies used shear-wave elastography (SWE) for characterizing this muscle elasticity, limited evidence assessed the inter-examiner reliability of this procedure. This study aimed to analyze the inter-examiner reliability for calculating Young’s modulus and shear wave speed in a cohort of participants with and without chronic neck pain. A diagnostic accuracy study was conducted, acquiring a set of SWE images at the C5 level in participants with and without neck pain (n = 34 and 33, respectively) by two examiners (one experienced and one novel). After blinding the participants’ identity, examiner involved, and side, the stiffness indicators were calculated by an independent rater in a randomized order. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of measurement, minimal detectable changes, and coefficient of variation were calculated. Both cohorts had comparable sociodemographic characteristics (p > 0.05). No significant levator scapulae elasticity differences were found between genders, sides, or cohorts (all, p > 0.05). Inter-examiner reliability for calculating Young’s modulus and shear wave speed was moderate-to-good for assessing asymptomatic individuals (ICC = 0.714 and 0.779, respectively), while poor-to-moderate in patients with neck pain (ICC = 0.461 and 0.546, respectively). The results obtained in this study support the use of this procedure for assessing asymptomatic individuals. However, reliability estimates were unacceptable to support its use for assessing elasticity in patients with chronic neck pain. Future studies might consider that the shear wave speed is more sensitive to detect real changes in comparison with Young’s modulus.
Label-Free DNA Hybridization Detection Using a Highly Sensitive Fiber Microcavity Biosensor
Authors: Wu Yao , Wang Guiyu , Yu Xiujuan , Fan Yuanji , Chen Xuefeng , Liu Shengchun
Published: January 2024

A novel label-free optical fiber biosensor, based on a microcavity fiber Mach–Zehnder interferometer, was developed and practically demonstrated for DNA detection. The biosensor was fabricated using offset splicing standard communication single-mode fibers (SMFs). The light path of the sensor was influenced by the liquid sample in the offset open cavity. In the experiment, a high sensitivity of −17,905 nm/RIU was achieved in the refractive index (RI) measurement. On this basis, the probe DNA (pDNA) was immobilized onto the sensor’s surface using APTES, enabling real-time monitoring of captured complementary DNA (cDNA) samples. The experimental results demonstrate that the biosensor exhibited a high sensitivity of 0.32 nm/fM and a limit of detection of 48.9 aM. Meanwhile, the sensor has highly repeatable and specific performance. This work reports an easy-to-manufacture, ultrasensitive, and label-free DNA biosensor, which has significant potential applications in medical diagnostics, bioengineering, gene identification, environmental science, and other biological fields.
Lightweight Detection Methods for Insulator Self-Explosion Defects
Authors: Chen Yanping , Deng Chong , Sun Qiang , Wu Zhize , Zou Le , Zhang Guanhong , Li Wenbo
Published: January 2024

The accurate and efficient detection of defective insulators is an essential prerequisite for ensuring the safety of the power grid in the new generation of intelligent electrical system inspections. Currently, traditional object detection algorithms for detecting defective insulators in images face issues such as excessive parameter size, low accuracy, and slow detection speed. To address the aforementioned issues, this article proposes an insulator defect detection model based on the lightweight Faster R-CNN (Faster Region-based Convolutional Network) model (Faster R-CNN-tiny). First, the Faster R-CNN model’s backbone network is turned into a lightweight version of it by substituting EfficientNet for ResNet (Residual Network), greatly decreasing the model parameters while increasing its detection accuracy. The second step is to employ a feature pyramid to build feature maps with various resolutions for feature fusion, which enables the detection of objects at various scales. In addition, replacing ordinary convolutions in the network model with more efficient depth-wise separable convolutions increases detection speed while slightly reducing network detection accuracy. Transfer learning is introduced, and a training method involving freezing and unfreezing the model is employed to enhance the network’s ability to detect small target defects. The proposed model is validated using the insulator self-exploding defect dataset. The experimental results show that Faster R-CNN-tiny significantly outperforms the Faster R-CNN (ResNet) model in terms of mean average precision (mAP), frames per second (FPS), and number of parameters.
Adsorption Performance and Mechanism of H3PO4-Modified Banana Peel Hydrothermal Carbon on Pb(II)
Authors: Bai Tao , Yao Yuhu , Zhao Jiaxin , Tian Laixin , Zhang Luming
Published: January 2024

This study investigated the adsorption performance of hydrothermal carbon derived from banana peel and modified with different concentrations of phosphoric acid solution, then used to adsorb lead ions in an aqueous solution. The surface structure and functional groups of the modified hydrothermal carbon were analyzed using XRD, SEM, FT-IR, elemental analysis, and BET. The results showed that the adsorption capacity of modified hydrothermal carbon derived from banana peel reached 40.64 mg/g at a hydrothermal temperature of 240 °C, a phosphoric acid solution of 2 mol/L, and a solid–liquid ratio of 2 g/L, with a removal efficiency of 82.74%. The adsorption process conformed to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir isotherm equation. The correlation coefficient of 0.99 for fitting the adsorption process using an artificial neural network, indicating that the artificial neural network could be used to predict adsorption. The adsorption of Pb(II) from an aqueous solution by phosphoric acid-modified hydrothermal carbon was dominated by monolayer chemical adsorption, and the adsorption mechanisms included electrostatic attraction, ion exchange, surface complexation, and physical adsorption.
Using Recycled Construction Waste Materials with Varying Components and Particle Sizes for Extensive Green Roof Substrates: Assessment of Its Effects on Vegetation Development
Authors: Jiang Nan , Zou Weina , Lu Yi , Liao Ziman , Wu Lianglong
Published: January 2024

Using construction waste materials as substrates can reduce the resource consumption of minerals and provide sustainability benefits in green roofs. This research examined the viability of crushed bricks and crushed concrete with varying particle sizes as substrates by conducting a simulated drought experiment and roof experiment. Six composite substrates were prepared, respectively, by mixing peat with small-, medium-, and large-sized crushed bricks and crushed concrete particles (peat-to-inorganic-particle volume ratio of 1:2). The properties of each group were within acceptable parameters, with the crushed brick substrates displaying lower bulk density and higher porosity compared to the crushed concrete substrates. Seldom lineare was selected for the experiments, and the substrate thickness was set at 10 cm. Under the simulated drought conditions, the growth and stress resistance of Seldom lineare in the crushed brick substrates was similar to that in the conventional substrates and poorer in the crushed concrete substrates. Seldom lineare in medium-particle-size brick substrates performed the best, surpassing the traditional group. The growth of Seldom lineare in the small-particle-size concrete substrates was the worst. In the rooftop environment, all groups could support Seldom lineare over 180 days without maintenance, with an overall coverage of more than 60%. The plants in the medium-particle-size brick substrates exhibited the highest cover. In conclusion, the medium-particle-size brick substrate exhibits ideal characteristics in terms of substrate physical properties and plant growth, making it a favorable option.
The Role of Passive Investors in Corporate Governance and Socially Responsible Investing: Evidence from Shareholder Proposals
Authors: Yang Lukai , Huang Xinhui , Song Xiaochuan
Published: January 2024

We study whether the substantial rise in passive ownership reshapes activist shareholders’ behavior in sponsoring shareholder proposals, which shareholders use to address issues they believe are crucial for the sustainable growth of a company. Our findings reveal a positive impact of passive investors on the initiation of governance, socially responsible investing (SRI), and an aggregate of both proposals. Interestingly, we show that managerial ability and board co-option potentially moderate their link. In the subsequent analysis, we note a constructive influence of passive investors on post-initiation outcomes, evidenced by an increase in withdrawal and voting percentage of proposals corresponding to heightened levels of passive ownership. These findings suggest that passive investors foster communication between activists and management and endorse the case even when it progresses to the voting stage. More importantly, the market values these proposals positively as reflected in higher observed buy-and-hold returns. Finally, our results are robust to instrumental variable analysis using Russell reconstitution as an exogenous shock. Taken together, our study offers broad implications that passive investors can indirectly engage in promoting sustainable practices by encouraging activist investors to sponsor governance and socially responsible proposals, a collaborative approach where shareholders contribute to sustainability efforts.
Potential Risk Recognition of Agricultural Land Based on Agglomeration Characteristics of Pollution-Related Enterprises: A Case Study on the Black Soil Region in Northeast China
Authors: Zhao Xiaofeng , Wei Changhe , Liu Jiufen , Liu Xiaohuang , Wan Xiaoming , Lei Mei , Wang Shaobin
Published: January 2024

The black soil region in Northeast China serves as a ballast for food security. However, the presence of scattered polluting enterprises poses a threat to the safety of the surrounding soil and agricultural products. In this study, the distribution patterns and agglomeration features of key industrial enterprises in Northeast China were elucidated through multi-source geographical big data and geographic information system (GIS) spatial analysis. Subsequently, the risk areas were extracted based on their potential impact on the soil environmental quality of the surrounding agricultural lands. The results revealed that pollution-related enterprises were widely distributed but locally clustered in the black soil area. The dominant industries were chemical manufacturing, petroleum processing, coking, and non-ferrous metal mining. The study found that the agricultural land area affected by polluting enterprises was 43,396.13 km2, with the majority being at a low-risk level (83.42%). High-risk areas (1646.62 km2) were mostly aggregated west of Hulunbuir, east of Xilingol, and in most of Chifeng. These areas were primarily affected by the non-ferrous metal mining industry. Other high-risk hotspots were mainly influenced by the chemical manufacturing and metal processing industries. The emissions from industrial and mining enterprises are important heavy metals in the agricultural lands in this region. However, it is important to note that there are other sources of pollution as well. These results may contribute to future investigations on soil environmental quality and pollution source control in the black soil region in Northeast China.
Improvement of the Methodology for the Assessment of the Agro-Resource Potential of Agricultural Landscapes
Authors: Mustafayev Zhumakhan , Medeu Akhmetkal , Skorintseva Irina , Bassova Tatiana , Aldazhanova Gulnar
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was the scientific justification of the concept of assessment of the agro-resource potential of agricultural landscapes and the improvement of the methodology for such assessment, on the basis of knowledge integration principles that allow for the combining of various fields of science in order to create an integrated methodological approach to addressing scientific and practical problems of environmental management. Based on the analysis of modern worldviews and natural scientific ideas on the mechanisms of biomass production in natural systems, we propose a methodology for the assessment of the agro-resource potential of agricultural landscapes that is an integral function of four key components (groups of factors)—agroclimatic resources (ACR), soil–land resources (SLR), agrobiological resources (ABR) and water resources (WR)—and that is based on the laws of nature and the principles of agricultural nature management. The proposed algorithm for predicting the natural state of agricultural landscapes based on agroclimatic, agrochemical and agrobiological integrated indexes allowed us to develop a unified integrated approach to the methodology for the assessment of the agro-resource potential of agricultural landscapes that makes it possible to determine the logical sequence of the trend of changes in the natural process, fully characterizing its state in the space–time scale.
Challenges in Developing Wildfire Understanding from Wildfire Information through Spatial Planning Processes
Authors: Gonzalez-Mathiesen Constanza
Published: January 2024

This paper aims to explore the elements that condition and limit spatial planning processes for developing wildfire understanding from wildfire information. The central argument of this paper is that spatial planning’s ability to develop wildfire understanding from new evidence and experience is critical for improving spatial planning systems to better integrate wildfire considerations to promote settlements’ resilience to wildfires. The research involved using an inductive qualitative research approach for two case studies: Victoria (Australia) and Chile’s spatial planning processes for developing wildfire understanding from wildfire information. Based on the analysis of the case studies and cross-case synthesis, key elements that challenge planning processes were identified, and herein, they are discussed in terms of four general categories of the process of knowledge development: (a) identification; (b) ‘co-generation’; (c) reframing; and (d) implementation. The study identifies that the Victorian and Chilean spatial planning systems often fail to give spatial planning meaning to new and dynamic wildfire information due to key elements that constrain the processes of knowledge development. This implies that new wildfire information often does not translate into improvements in the planning system, which in turn entails missing the opportunity to promote settlements’ resilience to wildfires.
Hydrochemical Evolution and Nitrate Source Identification of River Water and Groundwater in Huashan Watershed, China
Authors: Li Xue , Lin Jin , Zhang Lu , Han Jiangbo , Dai Yunfeng , Min Xing , Wang Huirong
Published: January 2024

The combined hydrochemical analysis, factor analysis, and isotopic signals of water and nitrate were applied to explore the hydrochemical origin and identify the sources and transformation of nitrate in river water and groundwater in the Huashan watershed. Additionally, a Bayesian isotope mixing model (SIAR) was employed for quantitative assessment of the nitrate sources. The results indicated that both river water and groundwater were dominated by HCO3-Ca and HCO3-Ca·Mg types; both originated from precipitation and were influenced by evaporation. The main constituent ions in the river water and groundwater primarily originated from carbonate and silicate dissolution, with the presence of cation exchange in the groundwater. The water chemistry of river water was greatly influenced by physicochemical factors, while that of groundwater was mainly controlled by water–rock interaction. NO3− in river water was mainly influenced by soil nitrogen (SN) and manure and septic wastes (MSWs), while NO3− in groundwater was jointly affected by ammonium fertilizers (AF), SN, and MSWs. With the exception of denitrification observed in the groundwater at the watershed outlet, denitrification was absent in both groundwater in the piedmont area and in river water. The SIAR model results demonstrated that the contribution rates of atmospheric precipitation (AP), AF, SN, and MSWs to river water were 12%, 21%, 25%, and 42%, respectively, while to groundwater, they were 16%, 27%, 10%, and 47%, respectively. Overall, MSWs were the main sources of nitrate in the river water and groundwater. It is necessary to prevent the leakage of MSWs when managing water resources.
Mapping Renewable Energy among Antarctic Research Stations
Authors: de Witt Magnus , Chung Changhyun , Lee Joohan
Published: January 2024

This paper presents an overview of current electricity generation and consumption patterns in the Antarctic. Based on both previously published and newly collected data, the paper describes the current status of renewable-energy use at research stations in the Antarctic. A more detailed view of electricity systems is also presented, demonstrating how different types of resources may be used and combined. The paper will serve as a guide to various renewable-energy generation technologies, highlighting well-established praxis, lessons learned, and potential ideas for improvement. Several renewable electricity generation technologies that have proven effective for use in the Antarctic environment are described. as well as those that are currently in use. Finally, the paper summarizes the major lessons learned to support future projects and close the knowledge gap. The use of renewable-energy sources has the potential to reduce research stations’ greenhouse gas emissions, making research in Antarctica more sustainable. The availability of high-quality energy is crucial for survival and to allow scientists to conduct meaningful research at research stations under harsh Antarctic conditions.
Unveiling the Seismic Performance of Concentrically Braced Steel Frames: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Issa Anas , Stephen Steffi , Mwafy Aman
Published: January 2024

Steel braced frames resist earthquake ground motion by undergoing several cycles of inelastic deformation. These deformations include elongation under tension and buckling in compression. To facilitate an understanding of the inelastic response of concentrically braced steel members under cyclic loading, several experimental, numerical, and analytical studies have been carried out by various researchers around the world. To overcome buckling, one of the primary failure mechanisms in Concentrically Braced Frames (CBFs), different bracing systems with recently developed mechanisms were implemented to tackle this phenomenon. The main features of these systems are to dissipate the earthquake-induced energy effectively, with minimum damage to buildings and infrastructure. Such systems still have some drawbacks, such as weight, price and specific performance issues. This work comprehensively studies CBFs, including concept, design, seismic behavior and performance for conventional, modern, and self-centering bracing systems. It summarizes 27 test programs for conventional CBFs, highlighting the different alternatives and approaches used by various researchers. Several additional studies incorporating self-centering bracing systems are also emphasized. The work finally highlights the advancements and challenges in achieving more sustainable solutions for the built environment.
Unraveling the Knowledge Roadmap of Building Policy Mixes: A Scientometric Analysis
Authors: Xu Zhuo , Li Xiaohu , Ma Lie , Lu Yuehong , Liu Guo
Published: January 2024

Improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions from buildings are crucial for achieving sustainable development. To realize these goals, it is essential to adopt a policy mix. However, despite much effort in this field, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding on building policy mixes (BPMs), which challenges building sustainability. To address this research gap, this study attempted to uncover the knowledge landscape of BPM through scientometric analysis. By employing methods such as keywords co-occurrence analysis, clustering analysis, co-citation analysis, and research trend analysis, this study systematically examined the current status, hot topics, underlying knowledge framework, knowledge domains, and frontiers of BPM research. The findings revealed that the existing BPM research primarily focuses on various aspects, including policy-related topics such as building energy efficiency policies and policy instruments, as well as topics like green affordable housing, hindering factors, carbon pricing, use obligation, construction waste reduction, and sustainable construction methods. Furthermore, the analysis identified research frontiers in BPM, encompassing policy considerations (e.g., building efficiency policy, split incentive, carbon tax, and carbon pricing), energy-related aspects (e.g., consumption, green transition), political dimensions (e.g., governance, management), building-related factors (e.g., green building, retrofitting), the innovation system, and the evolutionary game. Based on these findings, this study suggests that future research in BPM can deepen insight into interdisciplinary policy mixes by focusing on policy strategies, processes, and features. This study contributes to a holistic understanding of BPM and offers insightful guidance for both researchers and practitioners seeking to advance sustainable practices in the building sector.
Photovoltaic Modeling: A Comprehensive Analysis of the I–V Characteristic Curve
Authors: Olayiwola Tofopefun Nifise , Hyun Seung-Ho , Choi Sung-Jin
Published: January 2024

The I–V curve serves as an effective representation of the inherent nonlinear characteristics describing typical photovoltaic (PV) panels, which are essential for achieving sustainable energy systems. Over the years, several PV models have been proposed in the literature to achieve the simplified and accurate reconstruction of PV characteristic curves as specified in the manufacturer’s datasheets. Based on their derivation, PV models can be classified into three distinct categories: circuit-based, analytical-based, and empirical-based models. However, an extensive analysis of the accuracy of the reconstructed curves for different PV models at the maximum power point (MPP) has not been conducted at the time of writing this paper. The IEC EN 50530 standard stipulates that the absolute errors within the vicinity of MPP should always be less than or equal to 1%. Therefore, this review paper conducts an in-depth analysis of the accuracy of PV models in reconstructing characteristic curves for different PV panels. The limitations of existing PV models were identified based on simulation results obtained using MATLAB and performance indices. Additionally, this paper also provides suggestions for future research directions.
Evaluating the Role of Requirements Engineering Practices in the Sustainability of Electronic Government Solutions
Authors: Alzayed Asaad
Published: January 2024

The efficacy of electronic government (E-Government) initiatives relies significantly on requirements engineering (RE). Every government wants sustainable solutions in the implementation of E-Government projects. The current research has adopted a mix of research methods. After conducting a comprehensive systematic literature review (SLR), the author conducted a case study to evaluate the proposed model. This research conducts an SLR of the contemporary literature on the success and failure factors of E-Government projects. Additionally, there is an association between the failure factors and the utilization of RE practices. A comprehensive search of electronic databases yielded a total of 71 pertinent articles. After meticulous screening and quality assessment, the data were extracted for analysis. A total of 62 papers were eventually selected. The SLR addressed the distinct hurdles encountered by government bodies. The findings indicated a positive relationship between the utilization of RE practices and the attainment of project success. Various aspects, such as project management practices, stakeholder engagement, and effective communication, were identified as factors that can reduce failures in E-Government projects. The deficiencies observed in E-Government initiatives were linked to inadequacies in implementing RE practices. The other issues identified were insufficient requirement elicitation, limited stakeholder involvement, and inadequate validation and verification of requirements. This study also presented a conceptual framework illustrating the difficulties in E-Government and the practices of RE. Statistical data analysis techniques were employed to examine this conceptual framework. This study suggests that managers examine and evaluate their E-Government project failure reasons and factors on a periodic basis to sustain and continuously enhance E-Government project success.
Quetiapine-Related Deaths: In Search of a Surrogate Endpoint
Authors: Šoša Ivan
Published: January 2024

Quetiapine is a second-generation antipsychotic drug available for two and half decades. Due to increased misuse, prescription outside the approved indications, and availability on the black market, it is being encountered in medicolegal autopsies more frequently. For instance, it has been linked to increased mortality rates, most likely due to its adverse effects on the cardiovascular system. Its pharmacokinetic features and significant postmortem redistribution challenge traditional sampling in forensic toxicology. Therefore, a systematic literature review was performed, inclusive of PubMed, the Web of Science—core collection, and the Scopus databases; articles were screened for the terms “quetiapine”, “death”, and “autopsy” to reevaluate each matrix used as a surrogate endpoint in the forensic toxicology of quetiapine-related deaths. Ultimately, this review considers the results of five studies that were well presented (more than two matrices, data available for all analyses, for instance). The highest quetiapine concentrations were usually measured in the liver tissue. As interpreted by their authors, the results of the considered studies showed a strong correlation between some matrices, but, unfortunately, the studies presented models with poor goodness of fit. The distribution of quetiapine in distinct body compartments/tissues showed no statistically significant relationship with the length of the postmortem interval. Furthermore, this study did not confirm the anecdotal correlation of peripheral blood concentrations with skeletal muscle concentrations. Otherwise, there was no consistency regarding selecting an endpoint for analysis.
Correction: De Jesus et al. Body Temperature Drop as a Humane Endpoint in Snake Venom-Lethality Neutralization Tests. Toxins 2023, 15, 525
Authors: De Jesus Rosa , Tratner Adam E. , Madrid Alanna , Rivera-Mondragón Andrés , Navas Goy E. , Lleonart Ricardo , Britton Gabrielle B. , Fernández Patricia L.
Published: January 2024

In the original publication [...]
Functional Comparison of Three Chitinases from Symbiotic Bacteria of Entomopathogenic Nematodes
Authors: Son Da-Jeong , Kim Geun-Gon , Choo Ho-Yul , Chung Nam-Jun , Choo Young-Moo
Published: January 2024

Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus, bacterial symbionts of entomopathogenic nematodes Steinernema and Heterorhabditis, respectively, have several biological activities including insecticidal and antimicrobial activities. Thus, XnChi, XhChi, and PtChi, chitinases of X. nematophila, X. hominickii, and P. temperata isolated from Korean indigenous EPNs S. carpocapsae GJ1-2, S. monticolum GJ11-1, and H. megidis GJ1-2 were cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 to compare their biological activities. Chitinase proteins of these bacterial symbionts purified using the Ni-NTA system showed different chitobiosidase and endochitinase activities, but N-acetylglucosamidinase activities were not shown in the measuring of chitinolytic activity through N-acetyl-D-glucosarmine oligomers. In addition, the proteins showed different insecticidal and antifungal activities. XnChi showed the highest insecticidal activity against Galleria mellonella, followed by PtChi and XhChi. In antifungal activity, XhChi showed the highest half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) against Fusarium oxysporum with 0.031 mg/mL, followed by PtChi with 0.046 mg/mL, and XnChi with 0.072 mg/mL. XhChi also showed the highest IC50 against F. graminearum with 0.040 mg/mL, but XnChi was more toxic than PtChi with 0.055 mg/mL and 0.133 mg/mL, respectively. This study provides an innovative approach to the biological control of insect pests and fungal diseases of plants with the biological activity of symbiotic bacterial chitinases of entomopathogenic nematodes.
Sequential Immunizations with Influenza Neuraminidase Protein Followed by Peptide Nanoclusters Induce Heterologous Protection
Authors: Song Wen-Wen , Wan Mu-Yang , She Jia-Yue , Zhao Shi-Long , Liu De-Jian , Chang Hai-Yan , Deng Lei
Published: January 2024

Enhancing cross-protections against diverse influenza viruses is desired for influenza vaccinations. Neuraminidase (NA)-specific antibody responses have been found to independently correlate with a broader influenza protection spectrum. Here, we report a sequential immunization regimen that includes priming with NA protein followed by boosting with peptide nanoclusters, with which targeted enhancement of antibody responses in BALB/c mice to certain cross-protective B-cell epitopes of NA was achieved. The nanoclusters were fabricated via desolvation with absolute ethanol and were only composed of composite peptides. Unlike KLH conjugates, peptide nanoclusters would not induce influenza-unrelated immunity. We found that the incorporation of a hemagglutinin peptide of H2-d class II restriction into the composite peptides could be beneficial in enhancing the NA peptide-specific antibody response. Of note, boosters with N2 peptide nanoclusters induced stronger serum cross-reactivities to heterologous N2 and even heterosubtypic N7 and N9 than triple immunizations with the prototype recombinant tetrameric (rt) N2. The mouse challenge experiments with HK68 H3N2 also demonstrated the strong effectiveness of the peptide nanocluster boosters in conferring heterologous protection.