bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Harnessing Biocontrol Potential of Streptomyces rochei Against Pythium aphanidermatum: Efficacy and Mechanisms
Authors: Johnson Iruthayasamy , Kavitha Rangasamy , Karthikeyan Muthusamy , Paramasivan Mookkan , Priya Dhanabalan Shanmuga , Anandham Rangasamy , Nakkeeran Sevugapperumal
Published: November 2024

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and chilli (Capsicum annuum) are globally significant vegetable crops susceptible to damping‐off disease caused by Pythium aphanidermatum, leading to substantial yield losses. The study aimed to document the biocontrol and plant growth promotion potential of Streptomyces rochei against damping‐off disease in tomato and chilli. The actinobacterial isolates ACS18 followed by ACT30, and AOE12 were accomplished as the most effective antagonists against P. aphanidermatum in vitro. Molecular characterization confirmed these isolates as members of Streptomyces genus, with ASH 18 the top performer identified as S. rochei isolate. Analysis of biomolecule through GC‐MS during ditrophic interaction between pathogen and S. rochei showed the presence of various antifungal metabolites which were directly related to suppression of the pathogen. Subsequently, S. rochei was formulated into a talc‐based preparation and used as seed treatment and soil application against damping‐off. In greenhouse trials, significant reductions in damping‐off incidence were observed, Furthermore, seedlings treated with S. rochei displayed enhanced root and shoot lengths compared to the uninoculated controls. These benefits potentiate S. rochei as a promising biocontrol agent and demonstrating its dual benefits of disease suppression and promotion of seedling growth.
The association of human milk intake and outcomes in biliary atresia
Authors: Tessier Mary Elizabeth M. , Schraw Jeremy M. , Beer Stacey , Harpavat Sanjiv , Kyle Jensen M. , Magee John C. , Ng Vicky , Scheurer Michael E. , Taylor Sarah A. , Shneider Benjamin L.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Human milk intake has many benefits which could influence outcomes in biliary atresia (BA). However, the role of human milk in BA has not been examined. We hypothesized that human milk intake would be associated with improved outcomes in BA.

Methods

We assessed the impact of any human milk (AHM) as compared to formula only (FO) intake before Kasai portoenterostomy (KP) on outcomes in 447 infants with BA using the PROBE database (NCT00061828) post hoc. The primary outcome was clearance of jaundice (COJ = total bilirubin (TB) < 2 mg/dL by 3 months post‐KP). Secondary outcomes included 2‐year survival with native liver (SNL), bilirubin levels, cholangitis, ascites, and growth. We assessed the fecal microbiome (n = 8) comparing AHM versus FO.

Results

At baseline, 211 infants received AHM and 215 received FO. 53.9% of AHM and 50.5% of FO achieved COJ (p = NS). SNL was insignificantly increased in AHM (odds ratio = 1.47, 95% confidence interval: 1.00–2.12, p = 0.053). TB decreased in AHM from 4 weeks to 3 months post‐KP [4.8–4.0 mg/dL (p = 0.01)] unlike the FO group (4.9–4.9 mg/dL, p = 0.4). At 3 months post‐KP, AHM infants had greater weight gain (1.88 ± 0.66 vs. 1.57 ± 0.73 kg, p < 0.001) and mid‐upper arm circumference (12.9 ± 1.4 vs. 12.2 ± 1.7 cm, p < 0.001). Other secondary outcomes were not different. Microbiome differences were seen between AHM and FO.

Conclusions

Human milk intake in infants with BA did not significantly improve COJ or SNL. However, growth parameters were improved, and TB 3 months post‐KP was decreased. Thus, human milk intake should not be discouraged. Prospective studies with detailed assessment of human milk intake are needed.
Debulking Lymphatic Liposuction: Are the Therapeutic Effects Limited to the Treated Limb?
Authors: Lo Shih‐Lun , Salman Melis , Chen Wei F.
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives

Lymphedema treatment has traditionally focused on region‐specific interventions. However, recent evidence suggests otherwise. This study aims to evaluate whether the benefits of liposuction for lymphedema are confined to the treated limb or extend to other areas of the body.

Methods

Patients who underwent liposuction for extremity lymphedema between January and June 2023 at Cleveland Clinic were included in the study. Patients with less than 1‐year follow‐up or incomplete post‐operative tracking studies were excluded. Pre‐ and post‐operative evaluations included patient report, 3D volumetric measurements, and indocyanine green lymphography (ICGL). Liposuction was performed under general anesthesia with circumferential removal of pathological bulk.

Results

Thirty‐eight limbs in 36 patients (33 females, 3 males, mean age 58 years) underwent surgery. All reported marked improvements, with some noting the improvements as “life‐changing.” Improvements in lymphatic functions were observed in all operative limbs (38) and non‐operative contralateral limbs (38), with an average volume reduction of 30.0% and 19.5%, respectively. ICGL further confirmed improved lymphatic drainage in all limbs (76).

Conclusions

Liposuction, traditionally considered a region‐specific treatment for lymphedema, exerts therapeutic effects beyond the surgical site, suggesting broader systemic benefits.
L‐Cysteine‐Bonded Polymeric Monolithic Stationary Phase for Enantioseparation of Dansyl Amino Acids in Capillary Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Anggraeni Ayu Rahayu , Lim Lee Wah , Takeuchi Toyohide
Published: November 2024

A chiral monolith stationary phase was fabricated by modifying the monolith surface using L‐cysteine through a thiol‐epoxy click reaction. L‐cysteine‐bonded polymer monolith was characterized by scanning electron microscopy/energy‐dispersive X‐ray and attenuated total reflectance Fourier‐transformed infrared. The monomer content and modification temperature were carefully optimized to create a polymer monolith with excellent mechanical stability and permeability. Our findings revealed that the column morphology depended significantly on the porogen concentration and modification temperature for its morphology and efficiency. Adequate pores and binding sites were formed with the optimal porogen content, while a higher modification temperature improved the modification yield, enhancing peak shapes and increasing separation efficiency. The column demonstrated its capability for enantioseparation of dansyl glutamic acid, dansyl aspartic acid, dansyl methionine, and dansyl phenylalanine using a 60 mM ammonium acetate buffer solution and acetonitrile in a 20:80 v/v ratio. It maintained good mechanical stability and repeatability with no relative standard deviation exceeding 7%. These results indicated that the L‐cysteine‐bonded polymer monolith has excellent potential as a chiral stationary phase.
Responses of Legume‐Associated Rhizobacterial Communities to Plant Diversity and Soil Traits in Alpine Grassland
Authors: Zhang Ming‐Xu , Hu Jin‐Peng , Li Jia‐Lü , Che Zhuo , Li Li , Lü Zhao‐Long , Dong Wan‐Qing , Zhang Jian‐Quan , Yao Tuo , Duan Ting‐Yu , Zhang Jin‐Lin
Published: November 2024

Legume species are essential components of plant diversity and affect soil biodiversity across various ecosystems. Their effect on the diversity and traits of soil bacteria, particularly in degraded grasslands, remains unknown. This study analysed the relationships among plant diversity, soil traits and legume‐associated rhizobacterial communities in Xiahe (XH) and Maqu (MQ) in Gansu Province, Haibei (HB) in Qinghai Province and Hongyuan (HY) in Sichuan Province in the eastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau (QTP). The diversity index values (coverage, richness, Shannon index and evenness) of legume species were positively correlated with plant diversity. Several soil nutrients (ammonia‐nitrogen, nitrate‐nitrogen, total nitrogen, available potassium, available phosphorus and soil organic matter) and enzymes (urease, sucrase, peroxidase and dehydrogenase) were lower in HB and HY than in XH and MQ. The Shannon index for rhizobacterial diversity was higher in HB and HY than in XH and MQ. In contrast, the diversity index values were higher for geographical locations than for sympatric plant species. Additionally, HB and HY showed 50% fewer positive and negative associations with rhizobacteria than XH and MQ. Functional Annotation of Prokaryotic Taxa analysis indicated a higher relative abundance of nitrate reduction occurred in HB and HY than in XH and MQ, whereas nitrogen fixation occurred at a lower level in HB and HY than in XH and MQ. The Simpson index value for bacterial diversity was positively correlated with plant diversity, legume species diversity and soil multifunctionality. However, the Shannon index value was negatively correlated with these parameters. Changes in the composition of legume‐associated rhizobacteria across different geographical locations are strongly influenced by plant diversity and soil nutrients, reflecting the distribution characteristics of legumes in alpine grasslands.
Perforated plate ventilation system and dynamics of infectious respiratory particle transmission
Authors: Song Caiyue , Cheng Mengmeng , Kong Benben , Zeng Zhuo , Yuan Nenglin , Shi Hong
Published: November 2024

With the removal of indoor pollutants and the assurance of air quality emerging as critical research topics, the optimization of the internal environment in offices, where people stay for extended periods, is essential for controlling the spread of infectious respiratory particles. Frequent movements of personnel and the operation of doors and windows within offices significantly impact the mechanisms of droplet transmission, warranting further investigation. This study employs computational fluid dynamics simulations to explore the droplet dispersion characteristics and pollutant removal efficiency of the simplified model of perforated plate ventilation system (PPVS) (the diameter of the air supply openings has been reasonably simplified and uniformly set to 0.02 m) in office settings, as well as the impact of dynamic door operation scenarios on droplet spread and concentrations in breathing zones. To optimize the ventilation system's pollutant removal efficiency, airflow velocities (2.86, 3.18, and 5.00 m/s) are varied, with simulations conducted at the optimal velocity of 3.18 m/s. The effects of continuous door operations, door‐opening directions (towards the office and towards the isolation room), and opening speeds (π/4, π/6, π/8, and π/10 rad/s) are also examined, revealing significant impacts on droplet spread. Results indicate that PPVS effectively reduces indoor pollutant concentrations at all tested airflow velocities, with the optimal speed identified as 3.18 m/s. Additionally, door‐opening direction and speed can significantly influence droplet spread. Opening doors towards isolation rooms at smaller angles (less than 30°) effectively reduces droplet concentrations in personnel breathing zones, thereby mitigating the risk of droplet transmission. Faster door‐opening speeds also contribute to lower droplet concentrations in these zones. This innovative study explores the impacts of PPVS and dynamic door operation dynamics on droplet transmission during respiratory disease outbreaks, providing valuable theoretical insights and technical support for disease prevention and indoor air quality improvement.
Touchscreen Suppliers Refine Legacy Technology for New Challenges
Authors: Dickson Glen
Published: November 2024

Core technologies still play a role in smartphones and tablets with further potential in other applications.
Hypoxia combined with radiation reverses migration and invasion of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by remodeling extracellular vesicle‐mediated transfer of miR‐23b‐5p from cancer‐associated fibroblasts
Authors: He Chuanshi , Xie Mingzhe , Zhang Zhimi , Cao Bangrong , Luo Huaichao , Zhu Guiquan , Lu Shun , Li Ling
Published: November 2024

Background

Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the main matrix components in the tumor microenvironment (TME), play a crucial role in tumor progression. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) as main mediators in intercellular communication can be regulated by hypoxia or radiation.

Methods

CAFs were extracted from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tissues and CAF‐derived EVs were collected by ultracentrifugation. Bioinformatics analysis determined the role of poly (U)‐specific endonuclease (ENDOU) on HNSCC progression and confirmed that ENDOU inhibited HNSCC progression by overexpressing ENDOU in HNSCC. Dual‐luciferase activity report assay confirmed that miR‐23b‐5p was involved in the regulation of ENDOU expression. The migration and invasion of HNSCC cells were verified by transwell assay. Furthermore, tumor‐bearing mouse models were used to demonstrate the potential of EVs loaded with miR‐23b‐5p in HNSCC to promote tumor progression.

Results

Our results showed that ENDOU was downregulated in HNSCC and inhibited HNSCC migration and invasion. Hypoxia and radiotherapy reversed CAF‐derived EVs to promote migration and invasion of HNSCC. Mechanically, hypoxia and radiation downregulated miR‐23b‐5p in CAF‐derived EVs and then restored ENDOU expression in HNSCC. Finally, CAF‐derived EVs carrying miR‐23b‐5p promoted the progression of HNSCC cells in vivo by regulating ENDOU expression.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that hypoxia combined with radiation reverses the promoting effect of CAFs on HNSCC migration and invasion by reducing the delivery of miR‐23b‐5p by CAF‐derived EVs to decrease the inhibitory effect of ENDOU expression in HNSCC. The results provide a new perspective for better understanding the role of stromal components in TME in tumor regulation. Furthermore, the results provide a strong basis for the possibility of ENDOU as a biomarker for HNSCC.
Length in assessing status of freshwater fish populations: A review
Authors: Miranda L. E. , Funk H. G. , Palmieri M. , Stafford J. D. , Nichols M. E.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Effective policy formulation regarding the conservation of freshwater fish necessitates an understanding of water-specific prevailing conditions and trends. Assessing fish populations in inland waters is difficult and expensive because there are many independent systems that need to be evaluated. Therefore, numerous freshwater systems are beset by insufficient data and the lack of systematic assessments of their status. To alleviate this deficiency, the objective of this study was to review length-based metrics that may have utility in evaluating the well-being of freshwater fish populations.

Methods

Length measurements can serve as proxies for a range of ecological and population dynamics attributes that are essential for the effective management of fish and associated fisheries. A review of the historical development of length measurements in fish conservation is provided, along with an examination of the potential biases that may arise from the use of lengths in practical contexts. In addition, we examine techniques that enable the spatial and temporal visualization of length data sets, as well as a range of indices and metrics that can be computed using length measurements.

Result

Building populations assessments around length may be a cost-effective strategy that allows a first cut at managing a large number of waters. Length-based assessments can signal if management intervention is necessary, if management policies are yielding the intended outcome, or if surveys beyond mere length are necessary.

Conclusion

Our review indicates that length offers a straightforward and efficient approach to evaluate the status of fish populations in inland systems. We encourage pursuing additional study and to this end propose specific areas for investigation.
The moderating effect of cardiometabolic factors on the association between hepatic and intrapancreatic fat
Authors: Skudder‐Hill Loren , Sequeira‐Bisson Ivana R. , Ko Juyeon , Poppitt Sally D. , Petrov Maxim S.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Previous studies have investigated the association between hepatic fat and intrapancreatic fat deposition (IPFD); however, results have been inconclusive. The presence of cardiometabolic factors in certain subpopulations could explain this discrepancy. The aim of the present study was to use moderation analyses to determine the conditions under which hepatic fat is associated with IPFD.

Methods

All participants underwent 3T abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy. Hepatic fat and IPFD were manually quantified by independent raters. Moderation analyses were performed with adjustment for sex and ethnicity.

Results

There were 367 participants included. Adjusted analyses of the overall cohort revealed that age, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), and triglycerides were significant moderators (p < 0.05) of the association between hepatic fat and IPFD. Ranges of significance included age < 61 years, HbA1c < 45 mmol/mol, LDL‐C < 157 mg/dL, HDL‐C > 36 mg/dL, and triglycerides < 203 mg/dL.

Conclusions

The association between hepatic fat and IPFD is generally present in young and middle‐aged adults with good cardiometabolic health, whereas the link between the two fat depots becomes uncoupled in older adults or individuals with cardiometabolic risk factors.

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A Retrospective Study of Cricotracheostomy: Indications, Techniques, and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Nanjo Kana , Ueha Rumi , Dealino Maria A. , Matsumoto Naoyuki , Sato Taku , Goto Takao , Kondo Kenji
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Cricotracheostomy (CT) is a surgical procedure for airway access that can be performed using 2 techniques: excising the cricoid cartilage (CTrach), or by creating an inverted U‐shaped flap from the first tracheal ring (CTrachT). The aims of this study are to clinically evaluate factors such as patient background, complications, and stoma closure status in patients who underwent CT, and to compare the clinical outcomes between CTrach and CTrachT.

Study Design

Retrospective, cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Single‐institution academic center.

Methods

Records of patients who underwent CT at the University of Tokyo Hospital between 2014 and March 2024 were reviewed, detailing their demographics and clinical characteristics. We investigated differences in clinical backgrounds, complication risks for each surgical procedure, and factors contributing to stoma closure and complications after CT.

Results

The median age for patients undergoing CT was 70 years, predominantly male (76%), and most were malnourished. Common indications included low‐lying larynx and obesity. Stoma closure was achieved in 16% of patients. Early complications were surgical site infection (9%) and subcutaneous emphysema (2%), with granuloma formation in 20%. The CTrach group had a significantly higher median age (P = .03), but other factors showed no significant differences. CTrachT was more often performed by board‐certified specialists (P = .04). Stoma closure rates and complications were not significantly influenced by any single factor.

Conclusion

CT presents a viable option with minimal postoperative complications for patients wherein conventional tracheotomy may be more challenging, such as in low‐lying larynx, obesity, advanced age, and poor nutritional status.
Omics Studies in CKD: Diagnostic Opportunities and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Rroji Merita , Spasovski Goce
Published: November 2024

Omics technologies have significantly advanced the prediction and therapeutic approaches for chronic kidney disease (CKD) by providing comprehensive molecular insights. This is a review of the current state and future prospects of integrating biomarkers into the clinical practice for CKD, aiming to improve patient outcomes by targeted therapeutic interventions. In fact, the integration of genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data has enhanced our understanding of CKD pathogenesis and identified novel biomarkers for an early diagnosis and targeted treatment. Advanced computational methods and artificial intelligence (AI) have further refined multi‐omics data analysis, leading to more accurate prediction models for disease progression and therapeutic responses. These developments highlight the potential to improve CKD patient care with a precise and individualized treatment plan
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Preparation of Lipid–Polymer Conjugates by Photoiniferter Polymerization and Application to Cell Surface Modification
Authors: Wang Wenjin , Liu Shengjie , Yu Yijia , Xia Wenjuan , Wu Zhaoqiang , Chen Hong
Published: November 2024

The growing demand for lipid–polymer conjugates (LPCs) in biomedicine highlights the need for efficient synthesis methods. This study presents a novel Y‐type photoiniferter reagent (Lipid‐PIT) with a diethyldithiocarbamate group and a diacylglycerol group. Lipid‐PIT efficiently initiated the polymerization of vinyl monomers such as oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (OEGMA), N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMA), tert‐butyl acrylate (tBA), and n‐butyl acrylate (nBA) under UV irradiation at room temperature, yielding LPCs. Proton NMR confirmed the presence of diethyldithiocarbamate and diacylglycerol moieties at the chain ends. The polymerization kinetics of DMA showed a linear increase in molecular weight (M
n) with time, with a polydispersity (Đ) below 1.50, demonstrating high controllability. Moreover, Lipid‐PIT allows for the creation of block copolymers via secondary chain extension. In vitro assays revealed that LPCs synthesized from OEGMA monomers successfully modified L929 and HeLa cell surfaces and exhibited good biocompatibility. This study offers a rapid, efficient method for LPC synthesis with promising biomedical applications.
Influence of nano‐silica particles on fracture features of recycled aggregate concrete using boundary effect method: Experiments and prediction models
Authors: Nabavian Seyed Rasoul , Fallahnejad Hossein , Gholampour Aliakbar
Published: November 2024

The aim of this investigation is to assess the impact of using nano‐silica (Na) at varying weight percentages of 0%, 1.5%, 3%, 4.5%, and 6% as partial cement substitute on fracture parameters of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). A servo‐controlled testing system was employed to carry out three‐point flexure tests on 90 notched beams. Boundary effect method was used in order to interpret the fracture features. The results illustrate that adding Na increases the size‐independent fracture energy, fracture toughness and initial fracture energy of RAC by 29%, 32%, and 24% compared to that without Na, respectively. The maximum values of these parameters occur at 4.5% Na. The reference crack length () decreases from 6% to 22% by adding 1.5% to 6% Na. This shows that the RAC gets more brittle by the addition of Na. Moreover, the RAC behavior moves towards linear elastic fracture mechanics criteria by adding Na. Finally, according to the mechanical properties and test variables, multivariable models were suggested for prediction of the fracture parameters of the RAC containing Na. The models predictions were compared with experimental findings of the previous research.
Probabilistic analysis of crack widths associated with quality control procedures
Authors: Stierschneider Elisabeth , Strieder Emanuel , Hilber Raimund , Strauss Alfred , Bergmeister Konrad
Published: November 2024

Existing concrete specifications limit the crack width in order to fulfill the limits of serviceability and durability. The crack width calculation results differ depending on the influences of the variability of the used materials, the geometry, the actions and the uncertainty of the used calculation model itself. In this contribution, the influence of the variability of the input parameters on the calculated crack width is investigated using probabilistic methods in a real case study of a highly loaded tunnel lining cross‐section. The primary objective of this study is a sensitivity analysis to identify the geometric and material‐related input parameters with the most significant influence, which must be particularly controlled during execution for quality control purposes. The study in this article is based on the Eurocode deterministic model for calculating crack width for a stabilized cracking stage in late concrete age.
Secondary science teachers' conceptualizations and modifications to support equitable participation in a co‐designed computational thinking lesson
Authors: Levy Marissa , Peel Amanda , Zhao Lexie , LaGrassa Nicholas , Horn Michael S. , Wilensky Uri
Published: November 2024

Increasing access to computational ideas and practices is one important reason to integrate computational thinking (CT) in science classrooms. While integrating CT into science classrooms broadens exposure to computing, it may not be enough to ensure equitable participation in the science classroom. Equitable participation is crucial because providing students with an environment in which they are able to fully engage and participate in science and computing practices empowers students to learn and continue pursuing CT and science. To foreground equitable participation in CT‐integrated curricula, we undertook a research project in which researchers and teachers examined teacher conceptualizations of equitable participation and how teachers design for equitable participation by modifying a lesson that introduces computational modeling in science. The following research questions guided the study: (1) What are teachers' conceptualizations of equitable participation? (2) How do teachers design for equitable participation through co‐design of a CT‐integrated unit? Our findings suggest that teachers conceptualized and designed for equitable participation in the context of a CT‐integrated curriculum across three primary dimensions: accessibility, inclusion, and relevancy. Our contributions to the field of science teaching and learning are twofold: (1) obtaining an initial understanding of how teachers think about and design for equitable participation is crucial in order to support teachers in their pursuit of creating equitable learning experiences for CT and science learners, and (2) our findings show that we can study teacher conceptualizations and their design choices by examining specific modifications to a CT‐integrated science curriculum. Implications are discussed.
Review on progress in synthesis of CdS‐based composites and their potential applications
Authors: Ta Qui Thanh Hoai , Nhiem Ly Tan , Oanh Doan Thi Yen , Hieu Nguyen Huu , Nguyen Phan Khanh Thinh
Published: November 2024

In recent times, there has been a growing interest among materials communities in functional nanomaterials. This paper aims to explore the fundamental advancements in the role of Cadmium sulfide (CdS) in photoelectrochemical water splitting, CO2 conversion, photocatalytic H2 conversion, photovoltaic devices, and gas sensors. Additionally, we provide a summary of key points and propose avenues for advancing research on CdS‐based composites.
Introduction
Authors: Gárdos-Orosz Fruzsina , Bán-Forgács Nóra
Published: November 2024

The introduction chapter provides an overview of the Hungarian constitutional system from 2010 until today. This system is best characterized by populist constitutionalism. We argue that the resilience of the Hungarian legal system suffered hardly irreplaceable damages from 2010, mostly due to the cumulative effect of external impacts (Coronavirus crisis, financial crises, migration crises, war in Ukraine etc.) coupled with decesive internal factors such as the populist term and its new constitutional order. In our chapter, we mainly focus on the role of emergency powers in the new constitutional order.

We have three central points. First, the entitlement to impose emergency powers has been overused and, by and large, misused in Hungary. Even today, the integrity of the legal system is attacked by subsequently prolonged state of emergency regulations relying on a permanent state of emergency eroding democratic processes.

Second, we argue that populist constitutionalism during the Coronavirus crisis resulted in the lack of legal certainty: the rapidly increasing number of legislations had a counter effect of maintaining the rule of law standards. Thirdly, in this introductory chapter, we argue that rapid, effective, and (often uncensored) lawmaking is not an unheard reaction to international crises. However, when they appear to be only a façade that enables populist constitutionalism to eliminate checks and balances, the rule of law and democracy are at high risk.
The Resilience of the Hungarian Court System Between 2012 and 2020
Authors: Bencze Mátyás
Published: November 2024

In this chapter, I will first outline the political challenges the Hungarian court system has faced since 2010 and also present the characteristics of the organizational setting of the administration of justice, which has been a decisive factor in the response to those challenges. I will then turn to a discussion of how the relationship between the political system and the courts has changed since 2010. Using statistical methods and content analysis, I will prove the hypothesis that sporadic governmental expressions of opinion on certain judicial decisions before 2010 have been replaced by the systematic assertion of the interests of political power in public communication to the courts since the change of government in 2010. I will then describe the reactions of the domestic judicial leadership and use content analysis to identify the extent and nature of the reactions and how the strength of the resistance has changed over time. Finally, I draw conclusions about the factors that influence the preservation of the resilience of the judiciary.
Navigating Shifting Narratives of Terrorism and Resilience: The Spanish Case
Authors: Magazzini Tina , Eleftheriadou Marina , Triandafyllidou Anna
Published: November 2024

Spain was the first European country to suffer a large-scale jihadist attack on its territory—the 2004 train bombings in Madrid claimed by Al-Qaeda. Yet Spanish society’s response at that time, as well as in 2017 following the terrorist attacks in Barcelona, did not embrace a traditional securitised ‘War on Terror’ approach, but rather invested significant resources in engaging civil society in its P/CVE programmes. This chapter investigates why this is so and how we can understand the relatively low polarisation levels in Spain between the institutions, majority society, and Muslim minorities.
A Southern European Exceptionalism? Opening the Debate
Authors: Magazzini Tina , Eleftheriadou Marina , Triandafyllidou Anna
Published: November 2024

This chapter brings the threads of the previous ones together and compares among them. It reflects on how Italy, Greece, and Spain have been exceptional in their own way and the reasons why. Starting with a comparative overview of the different approaches that each country has adopted, we turn to discuss the possible explanations for each type of exceptionalism and weave them together in relation to our analytical framework of factors facilitating or impeding violent radicalisation. In conclusion, we consider the lessons learnt from the southern European dynamics that can contribute to our broader understanding of why and how violent religiously inspired radicalisation develops and how communities can prevent or address it.
Impact of Meteorological Disasters and Climate Change on Agricultural Economic Growth: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Jingyuan , Ji Hongmin , Zhao Jinpeng
Published: November 2024

Existing research findings on how climate disasters and change affect agricultural economic growth are not entirely consistent. In order to explore the general law, more than 600 estimates are incorporated to analyze the sources of bias in the variability of the research results, and summarize the general pattern of climate disasters and change impacts on agricultural economic growth by using Meta-analysis. It is based on five aspects of data, including the caliber of economic statistics, meteorological variations, irrigation situations, adaptive measures adoptions, and regional development situations. The results show that: First, meteorological disasters and climate change have a significant impact on agricultural economy, and publication bias is not significant. Second, whether irrigation has a significant impact on agricultural economy, game theory should be used to plan irrigation facilities reasonably in the context of climate change. Third, extreme weather causes more significant agricultural economic losses than meteorological disasters, and future research can further refine extreme weather data indicators.
Technical Strategies for Low-Cost Adaptive Renovation of Traditional Dong Ethnic Group Residences in Southeast Guizhou
Authors: Xie Sisi , Huang Mei , Zhan Linxin , Wang Zhengyang
Published: November 2024

The Dong ethnic residences in Southeast Guizhou constitute a significant part of China's traditional architectural cultural heritage. As times have progressed, these predominantly wooden structures are facing numerous issues related to the quality of living environments and housing safety performance. The flammability of the original fir wood used in construction, combined with the introduction of modern electrical appliances and non-standardized electrical usage, poses a significant fire hazard. Additionally, inadequate natural lighting, ventilation, sound insulation, and functional layout do not meet the demands of modern life. The emergence of disordered modifications and constructions that disrupt the traditional character of the villages represents a considerable challenge to the preservation of these traditional settlements and rural revitalization. This paper is based on the premise of limited funding for support and aims to address the issues of fire prevention, structural safety, lighting, ventilation, sound insulation, moisture proofing, and functional layout. It considers the common needs of villagers, local resources, and current market conditions to research and develop targeted technical measures for enhancement and renovation. It also summarizes and reflects on the designs implemented in selected demonstrative households to improve the living environment quality for villagers, preserve regional traditional culture, and contribute to the revitalization of rural culture.
Energy Saving of City Road Tunnel Lighting Based on Optimal Luminaire Installation Method
Authors: Cai Xianyun , Jiang Zhengyang , Wu Jiang , Zhang Yuanxu
Published: November 2024

Energy saving strategy of highway tunnel lighting mainly concentrated on shading facilities at tunnel entrances and exits, lighting intelligent control systems and lighting design methods. The contrast revealing coefficient qc is widely recognized as a key index used to assess the quality of tunnel lighting. The optimal values of the contrast revealing coefficient are associated with the optimal visual effecicy in tunnel lighting. This study aimed to give a new energy saving strategy based on optimal luminaire installation methods. Light Emitting Diode lamps (LED) were selected in tunnel lighting simulation experiment. The optimal luminaire installation method was determined by considering both the lighting quality evaluation system and the optimal value of the contrast revealing coefficient. Then, the lighting conditions achieved through the optimal luminaire installation method can be assessed based on the detection distance of small targets. Results showed that lighting environment under optimal luminaire installation method can fulfill the criteria for safe driving and visual comfort. Compared with the original luminaire installation method, the optimal luminaire installation method can save 24.32% of electrical energy.
Enhancing Facade Design to Improve Energy Efficiency of Office Towers in the Hot and Humid Climate Region (Case Study: Bandung, Indonesia)
Authors: Paramita Beta , Nurlette Muhammad Rabbani , Hanissa Aprilia Nurul
Published: November 2024

Performance Based Design (PBD) makes the design process easier to achieve optimal energy efficiency in office towers. Building performance is impacted by various factors, including decisions related to the shape of the building, its orientation, the building envelope, and the building façade. This study aims to determine the building energy consumption by applying the office building's secondary skin during the hottest season in the hot and climate region. A design solution was obtained by utilizing Sefaira with ASHRAE 90.1 – 2013-based parameters for the building performance analysis application. Building in the hot and humid climate region requires energy for cooling due to the long solar durations. The building facade then is the main architectural element that needs to design properly. Facade design, including the building height, orientation, shadowing, and wall window ratio, define the use of electric devices per square meter. The results showed the building's energy use before the special treatment was 126 kWh/m2/yr from the supposed 79 kWh/m2/yr. The design process that responds to the climate will then influence the building form and massing. It is the initial step for building envelope before requiring mechanical assistance to achieve thermal comfort. The design experiment later takes a 3-m-long balcony for all facades, reduce envelope area with compact form have proven to reduce the building energy use. Those experiments later found able to reduce energy use to 57 kWh/m2/yr or 69 kWh/m2/yr obtained.
Impact of Climate Change and Human Activities on Ecosystem Health in the Poyang Lake City Group, China
Authors: Chen Yaoyao , Zheng Xiang , Duo Linghua , Zeng Yi , Guo Xiaofei
Published: November 2024

Ecosystem health refers to a state where the interactions and relationships among the internal components of an ecosystem and its external environment are in a balanced and stable condition. A healthy ecosystem can maintain its structure and functions, possessing the capacity for self-regulation, self-repair, and resilience to external disturbances. This study constructed an assessment framework for ecosystem health based on the PSR model. It evaluated the ecosystem health of the PLCG in 2010, 2015, and 2020, exploring the impacts of climate change and human activities. The results indicate a declining trend in the EHI from 2010 to 2020, with most regions falling into the medium level. Precipitation and land use were identified as dominant factors influencing ecosystem health, and the interactions between any two influencing factors enhanced the variability in ecosystem health. This research contributes to expanding scientific understanding of the Earth's ecosystems, providing a foundation for further developments in the field of ecology. By deeply understanding the influencing factors on ecosystem health, it can accurately identify potential ecological risks and promptly take measures to prevent or mitigate these risks, providing important scientific basis for formulating environmental policies and management strategies.
Measurement and Evaluation Efficiency of Ecological and Economic in the Upstream Region of the Yangtze River
Authors: Wu Silin , Wang Dachuan
Published: November 2024

Ecological and economic efficiency level analysis is an effective means to evaluating and improving energy efficiency and resource utilization, and actively respond to climate change. This research gathered data from the three provinces and one directly-administered municipality in upstream region of the Yangtze River between 2011 and 2020. The data encompassing a total of 33 prefecture-level cities. Subsequently, an index system for evaluating ecological-economic efficiency was established, and the static and dynamic two-dimensional analysis of eco-economic efficiency was carried out by Super-efficiency DEA model and Malmquist index model. Two main conclusions have been found. Firstly, the eco-economic efficiency all below 1, level in the upstream region of the Yangtze River is relatively low, but the trend is increasing. Among them, Sichuan's ecological and economic efficiency is better than that of Chongqing, Yunnan, and Guizhou. Secondly, the average MI index in the upstream region of the Yangtze River is greater than 1, indicating a clear upward shift in ecological and economic efficiency. Technological progress (TC) is the dominant factor in promoting efficiency improvement. Tailoring strategies to local conditions, enhancing technological innovation, can effectively promote the enhancement of ecological economic efficiency, thereby steering development towards a green and low-carbon direction.
Impact of Residential Land Use Function Mix on Residents’ Travel Behavior from the Perspective of Carbon Emissions: A Case Study of Gaoshui District in Mianyang, China
Authors: Zhao Chunrong , Yan Li , Fu Juanlin , Peng Huiyun , He Yanling , Wang Xiaolan , Yi Yanping , Li Jiaxin , Hai Guoyang , Feng Wenyan
Published: November 2024

Residential areas, as the main places for urban population activities, are the basic spatial units for reducing carbon emissions. The mix of residential land use functions is closely related to residents’ daily travel. This paper takes the Gaoshui district of Mianyang city as an example, uses carbon emissions as a measurement tool, constructs a family travel carbon emission quantitative estimation model and a land use function mix calculation model, compares and analyzes the differences in residents’ travel behavior in each sample area, and uses a linear regression model to analyze the impact of function mix on residents’ travel behavior. The results show that there are spatial differences in residents’ shopping, entertainment, medical treatment, commuting and other travel behaviors in the 12 sample areas; the function mix has no significant impact on family commuting carbon emissions, but has a significant negative impact on non-commuting carbon emissions, and mixed development of residential areas has a positive significance for reducing carbon emissions.
Study on Vertical Greening Technology for Enhancing Environmental Performance of Existing Public Buildings in High-Density Mountainous Cities
Authors: Wu Jing , Cheng Xiang , Dong Lili
Published: November 2024

To enhance the applicability of stereoscopic greening technology for the renovation of existing public buildings in high-density mountainous urban areas, this study conducted on-site investigations in a typical high-density mountainous urban area of Chongqing. This study collected data on the application of vertical greening technology in urban public buildings and analyzed the suitability of various vertical greening technologies for the renovation of public buildings. The results indicate that modular vertical greening is currently more suitable for the renovation of public buildings in such cities; however, further optimization is needed in terms of the overall compatibility, stability of modular units, and adaptability of modular plants to the local environment. This study can provide a theoretical basis for the feasibility of adopting vertical greening retrofitting for public buildings in high-density mountainous cities, and provide a reference for the planning and sustainable development of such cities.
Thermal Comfort in Pedestrian Spaces of Mountain Cities in Humid and Cold Environments
Authors: Xiong Ke , Attia Shady , He Bao-Jie
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to explore the microclimate and outdoor thermal comfort characteristics of pedestrian spaces in mountain cities under humid and cold conditions. It focused on rainy and cloudy winter days in a typical mountain city (Chongqing), employing a combination of onsite thermal environment measurements and survey questionnaires. The research analyzed the Thermal Sensation Votes (TSV), thermal comfort evaluation indices (Universal Thermal Climate Index—UTCI, Physiological Equivalent Temperature—PET), and thermal environment parameters at representative sites. The findings revealed that firstly, outdoor thermal comfort and perception on cloudy winter days was minimally influenced by the microclimate. In contrast, on rainy winter days, it was significantly impacted by black globe temperature and wind speed. Secondly, the correlation between PET and Mean Thermal Sensation Vote (MTSV) was found to be higher than that between UTCI and MTSV, indicating that PET might be more aligned with the local climate and pedestrian activities. Lastly, the study determined the neutral PET range for different weather conditions in the area and compared it with existing research to identify discrepancies. This paper offers a reference for the neutral thermal comfort range in pedestrian spaces in regions with hot summers and cold winters under humid and cold winter climates, providing theoretical support for urban planning and design, with an emphasis on the results being presented in the past tense to reflect completed experiments.
Evaluation of High-Resolution Model Heavy Rainfall Forecast Under Different Weather Systems
Authors: Liu Jing , Ren Chuan , Zhao Ziqi , Dong Wei , Wang Yue , Ren Hao , Zhang Shuai
Published: November 2024

Using hourly rainfall data from the meteorological big data cloud platform and based on the fuzzy verification neighborhood method, the forecast performance of the China Meteorological Administration's North China Numerical Forecast Model System (CMA-BJ), China Meteorological Administration's Mesoscale Weather Numerical Forecast System (CMA-MESO), and the Ruitu Northeast Numerical Forecast Model System (CMA-DB) during the rainfall process in the main flood season of Liaoning from 2022 to 2023 was evaluated. The results show that without considering the bias within a radius of 40 km, the average hit rate of the model forecast during the Northeast cold vortex rainfall process is below 0.8%, with a maximum of 3.94%. The success rate of the three models’ 12-h forecasts is higher than 24 h, with an average of 14.5%. During the subtropical high rainfall process, the hit rate and TS score of all times of the three models are below 9%, with a maximum of 8.2%. The forecast effect during the typhoon rainstorm process is significantly better than the Northeast cold vortex and subtropical high rainstorm, with an average hit rate of 3.2%, and the false alarm rate of short-term heavy rainfall forecast at the near moment is high. When short-term heavy rainfall is caused by the influence of systems such as the upper trough, the average hit rate of the model forecast is only 1.54%. In all types of rainfall processes, a comprehensive analysis of indicators such as the success rate of the forecast shows that the CMA-MESO model forecast effect is better than the other two models.