bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Year and Genotype on Benzoxazinoids and Their Microbial Metabolites in the Rhizosphere of Early-Vigour Wheat Genotypes in Southern Australia
Authors: Weston Paul A. , Parvin Shahnaj , Hendriks Pieter-W. , Gurusinghe Saliya , Rebetzke Greg J. , Weston Leslie A.
Published: January 2025

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is grown on more arable acreage than any other food crop and has been well documented to produce allelochemicals. Wheat allelochemicals include numerous benzoxazinoids and their microbially transformed metabolites that actively suppress growth of weed seedlings. Production and subsequent release of these metabolites by commercial wheat cultivars, however, has not yet been targeted by focussed breeding programmes seeking to develop more competitive crops. Recently, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Organisation (CSIRO), through an extensive recurrent selection programme investment, released numerous early-vigour wheat genotypes for commercial use, but the physiological basis for their improved vigour is under investigation. In the current study, we evaluated several early-vigour genotypes alongside common commercial and heritage wheat cultivars to assess the impact of improved early vigour on the production and release of targeted benzoxazinoids by field-grown wheat roots over a two-year period. Using UPLC coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC-MS QQQ), we quantified common wheat benzoxazinoids and their microbially produced metabolites (aminophenoxazinones) in soil collected from the rhizosphere and rhizoplane of wheat plants over two growing seasons in the Riverina region of New South Wales, Australia. The benzoxazolinone MBOA and several aminophenoxazinones were readily detected in soil samples, but actual soil concentrations differed greatly between years and among genotypes. In contrast to 2019, the concentration of aminophenoxazinones in wheat rhizosphere soil was significantly elevated in 2020, a year receiving adequate rainfall for optimal wheat growth. Aminophenoxazinones were detected in the rhizosphere of early-vigour genotypes and also parental lines exhibiting weed suppression, suggesting that improved early vigour and subsequent weed competitiveness may be related to increased root exudation and production of microbial metabolites in addition to changes in canopy architecture or other root-related early-vigour traits. As previously reported, MBOA was detected frequently in both the rhizoplane and rhizosphere of wheat. Depending on the year and genotype, we also observed enhanced biotransformation of these metabolites to several microbially transformed aminophenoxazinones in the rhizosphere of many of the evaluated genotypes. We are now investigating the role of early-vigour traits, including early canopy closure and biomass accumulation upon improved competitive ability of wheat, which will eventually result in more cost-effective weed management.
Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Application Triggers Plant Dehydration but Does Not Accurately Simulate Drought
Authors: Kylyshbayeva Gulnar , Bishimbayeva Nazira , Jatayev Sativaldy , Eliby Serik , Shavrukov Yuri
Published: January 2025

Polyethylene glycol (PEG), especially at high molecular weights, is highly soluble in water, and these solutions have reduced water potential. It is convenient to use PEG in hydroponics (liquid nutrient solution) for experiments with plants. However, some authors have been found to describe the application of PEG to plants incorrectly, such as drought, dehydration, osmotic, or water stresses, which can mislead readers. The presented opinion paper shows our arguments for a terminology in such experiments that is strictly limited to ‘PEG-induced’ or ‘simulated’ or ‘mimicked’ dehydration, and osmotic or water stresses, with the best option being ‘PEG-induced dehydration’. The most popular term, ‘drought’, is inappropriate to be used for hydroponics at all, with or without PEG. Traditionally, drought stress study was related to only plants in soil or other substrates mixed with soil. Based on 139 published papers, the examples presented in our opinion paper can demonstrate differences in gene expression between plants grown in containers with soil and under PEG-induced stress in hydroponics. Researchers can carry out any type of experiments suitable for the purposes of their study. However, clear and correct description of experiments and careful interpretation of the results are strongly required, especially with PEG, to avoid incorrect information. In all cases, at the final stage, results of experiments in controlled conditions have to be verified in field trials with naturally occurring drought.
Wood-Inhabiting Nematode, Bursaphelenchus ussuriensis sp. n. (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae) from David Elm, with Molecular Phylogeny of the Genus Based on Partial Mitochondrial Genomes
Authors: Ryss Alexander Yu. , Álvarez-Ortega Sergio , Efeykin Boris D. , Kerchev Ivan A. , Polyanina Kristina S. , Solovyeva Anna I. , Subbotin Sergei A.
Published: January 2025

A new nematode species, Bursaphelenchus ussuriensis sp. n. is described in the bark beetle–elm tree association (Scolytus jacobsoni and Ulmus davidiana var. japonica f. suberosa) in the Asian Pacific region of Russia. The new species belongs to the Hofmanni group of Bursaphelenchus and is closest to B. ulmophilus. Its characteristics are as follows: lateral field with three incisures, body length 497–771 µm, post-uterine sac 3.6–5.4 times vulval body diam, 56 (39–66)% of vulva–anus distance, and spicule length 10.3 (9.5–12.5 µm). The new species differs from all species of the Hofmanni group in the closely situated P3 and P4 male caudal papillae and the GP5 small ‘glandpapillae’ pair on the butterfly-like papillae plate, in the set of P1, P2, P3, P4, GP5; vs. in all other species, the P4 papillae pair is absent in the pattern of P1, P2, P3, GP5. The phylogenetic position of B. ussuriensis sp. n. with other species of the Hofmanni group were reconstructed using the D2–D3 expansion segments of 28S and ITS rRNA gene sequence analysis. Sequences of twelve mitochondrial protein-coding genes of B. cocophilus, B. fraudulentus, B. michalskii, B. ussurensis sp. n., and B. willibaldi were obtained in this study. Phylogenetic relationships among eighteen Bursaphelenchus species based on the analysis of the mtDNA sequence dataset are provided and discussed. A modified diagnosis of the Hofmanni group is proposed.
Adaptation to Climate Change in Viticulture: The Role of Varietal Selection—A Review
Authors: Baltazar Miguel , Castro Isaura , Gonçalves Berta
Published: January 2025

Viticulture faces unprecedented challenges due to the rapidly changing climate, particularly in regions like the Mediterranean Basin. Consequently, climate change adaptation strategies are crucial in viticulture, with short-term strategies being widely used despite increasing concerns about their sustainability, and long-term strategies considered promising, though costly. A promising but understudied strategy is varietal selection, as grapevines exhibit vast intervarietal diversity with untapped potential for climate-resilient varieties. By integrating research across plant physiology, biochemistry, histology, and genetics, we can better understand the traits behind the grapevine’s capability for adaptation. Several traits, including morphological, physiological, and molecular aspects, have been shown to be crucial in adapting to environmental stresses such as drought and heat. By studying the abundant grapevine intervarietal diversity, the potential for viticulture adaptation to climate change through varietal selection is immense. This review article focuses on the potential of varietal selection in the adaptation of viticulture to climate change. For this, we will delve into the research regarding how climate affects grapevine growth and grape quality and how the grapevine responds to stress conditions, followed by a summary of different climate change adaptation strategies of viticulture. Finally, we will focus on varietal selection, discussing and summarizing different studies surrounding grapevine variety behaviour.
Identification of Candidate Genes for Green Rind Color in Watermelon
Authors: Zhou Wei , Yi Licong , Wang Yunqiang , Wang Hongsheng , Li Qingke , Wu Na , Dai Zhaoyi
Published: January 2025

The color of the rind is one of the most crucial agronomic characteristics of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.). Its genetic analysis was conducted to provide the identification of genes regulating rind color and improving the quality of watermelon appearance. In this study, a mapping population of 505 F2 plants, derived from a cross between green (CG058) and light-green (CG265) rinds, along with a high-density genetic linkage (average 0.9 cM distance between bin markers), was used to map and identify possible candidate genes. The green rind trait was determined to be regulated by a single Mendelian locus and was precisely located within a 110 kb genomic site on chromosome nine (Chr 9). In the respective region, two potential genes, Cla97C09G175170 and Cla97C09G175180, were substantially downregulated in the light-green rind in comparison to the green rind. Previous studies revealed that Cla97C09G175170, encoding a two-component response regulator-like protein (APRR2), is possibly involved in the green rind trait in watermelon. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) assay confirmed that ClAPRR2 is a key gene responsible for green rind color. Moreover, qRT-PCR analysis revealed that the transcription levels of multiple key genes in the chlorophyll (Chl) biosynthesis pathway were downregulated in the light-green rind relative to the green rind. The current findings have the potential to clarify the regulatory mechanisms that underlie the color of the watermelon rind. These data would provide valuable insights for the targeted molecular design and development of watermelon rinds.
Efficiency Analysis of the Integrated Application of Hazard Operability (HAZOP) and Job Safety Analysis (JSA) Compared to HAZOP Alone for Preventing Fire and Explosions in Chemical Plants
Authors: Jung Seungho , Kim Hangi , Kang Chankyu
Published: January 2025

Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) is the most widely used safety evaluation method because it systematically reviews the causes and results of all abnormal deviations in chemical plant facilities. However, fires and explosions caused by human error occur frequently. This study combined HAZOP and JSA, a chemical plant risk assessment technique, to determine the effectiveness of preventing significant industrial accidents whereby fires and explosions injure workers. The effectiveness of the 96-step distillation container cleaning process was assessed by identifying risk factors, using three different methods: HAZOP, JSA and HAZOP, and HAZOP and JSA. After completing HAZOP, JSA was used to determine the most severe risk factors. Thirty-seven additional recommendations were discovered using the JSA for the storage container cleaning operation, which was not included in the risk factors identified through the HAZOP work process. For additional risks, factors directly related to fires and explosions were identified. It was concluded that HAZOP and JSA must be combined in high-risk processes to minimize the risk of fires and explosions.
Effect of UV Exposure Time on the Properties of Films Prepared from Biotechnologically Derived Chicken Gelatin
Authors: Martinek Jakub , Polomíková Lucie , Kudláček Michal , Navrátilová Jana , Mokrejš Pavel , Pavlačková Jana , Gál Robert
Published: January 2025

Biomaterials (films, foils, fibers, coatings) based on proteins are becoming increasingly important due to the growing applications for which pork and beef gelatins are used. Alternative types of gelatins (poultry or fish), which have not yet been sufficiently tested, represent a high potential. This study looks at the effect of different UV exposure times on chicken gelatin films with added glycerol. The gelatin was prepared using a unique enzymatic hydrolysis process. The quality of the UV-exposed films was compared with gelatin films not exposed to UV light. Radiation-induced crosslinking improved the mechanical and physical properties of the films. The UV crosslinked films are stabilized at a degree of swelling from 700 to 900%; moreover, they extend their dissolution to more than 7 days while maintaining their original shape. In contrast, non-crosslinked films swell and dissolve in water faster. Further, the effect of UV radiation on the water vapor permeability and color of the films was monitored. Water vapor permeability decreased by 2.5 times with increasing crosslinking time for 30% and 40% glycerol content, and the yellowness of the irradiated samples increased with exposure time in the interval from 24 to 28. Using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, the differences in the amount of bonding based on irradiation time were analyzed. As a result of crosslinking, the intensity of existing bonds increased. Thermal properties were verified through differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The results proved that chicken gelatin is suitable for preparing films in foods and medicine. Applying UV radiation to crosslink gelatin films is an alternative to traditionally used chemical crosslinkers.
Development of MEA-Based and AEP-Based CO2 Phase Change Absorbent
Authors: Wang Yongyan , Cheng Fanghui , Li Jingsong , Liu Yingshu , Wang Haihong , Li Ziyi , Yang Xiong
Published: January 2025

In energy conservation and low-carbon environmental protection, separating and capturing CO2 from blast furnace gas is a crucial strategy for the steel industry to achieve its dual carbon goals. This study conducts an experimental study on the phase change absorption of carbon dioxide for the low-energy capture of carbon dioxide in blast furnace gas in iron and steel enterprises. The experiment used 30%wt monoethanolamine (MEA) and 30%wt 1-(2-aminoethyl)piperazine (AEP) as a reference to blend different absorbents, and the CO2 absorption effect of the absorbents was tested. The results indicated that the MEA system phase change absorbents have the best absorption effect when the mass ratio of additives to water is 5:5, and the AEP system has the best absorption effect at 7:3. The absorption effect of different phase separators is as follows: n-propanol > sulfolane > isopropanol. AEP/n-propanol/H2O (7:3) has a maximum absorption load of 2.03 molCO2·mol−1 amine, a relatively low rich phase ratio of 0.46, and low regeneration energy consumption. The load capacity of different absorbents was calculated based on the load experiment results, and it was found that the loading capacity of the MEA system was greater than that of the AEP system, with the maximum load capacity of MEA/n-propanol/H2O (5:5) being 4.02 mol/L. Different types of absorbents exhibited an increase in rich phase density with the increase in additive quality. The regeneration performance of the absorbent indicated that at a temperature of 393.15 K, the desorption load of n-propanol aqueous solution rich phase in the absorbent was high, and the desorption speed was the fastest.
Practicing Meta-Analytics with Rectification
Authors: Shanmugam Ramalingam , Singh Karan P.
Published: January 2025

This article demonstrates the necessity of assessing homogeneity in meta-analyses using the Higgins method. The researchers realize the importance of assessing homogeneity in meta-analytic work. However, a significant issue with the Higgins method has been identified. In this article, we explain the nature of this problem and propose solutions to address it. Our narrative in this article is to point out the problem, analyze it, and present it well. A prerequisite to check the consistency of findings in comparable studies in meta-analyses is that the studies should be homogeneous, not heterogeneous. The Higgins I2 score, a version of the Cochran Q value, is commonly used to assess heterogeneity. The Higgins score is an improvement in the Q value. However, there is a problem with Higgins score statistically. The Higgins score is supposed to follow a Chi-squared distribution, but it does not do so because the Chi-squared distribution becomes invalid once the Q score is less than the degrees of freedom. This problem was recently rectified using an alternative method (S2 score). Using this method, we examined 14 published articles representing 133 datasets and observed that many studies declared homogeneous by the Higgins method were, in fact, heterogeneous. This article urges the research community to be cautious in making inferences using the Higgins method.
Hierarchical Clustering and Small Baseline Subset Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (SBAS-DInSAR) for Remotely Sensed Building Identification and Risk Prioritisation
Authors: Hamzaoui Yassir , Civera Marco , Miano Andrea , Bonano Manuela , Fabbrocino Francesco , Prota Andrea , Chiaia Bernardino
Published: January 2025

The conventional Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) framework focuses on individual structures. However, preliminary studies are required at a large territorial scale to effectively identify the most vulnerable elements. This becomes particularly challenging in urban settings, where numerous buildings of varied shapes, ages, and structural conditions are closely spaced from one another. A twofold task is therefore required: the automated identification and differentiation of various structures, coupled with a ranking system based on perceived structural risk, here assumed to be linked to their deformation patterns. It integrates displacement measurements acquired through the Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (DInSAR) technique, specifically employing the full-resolution Small Baseline Subset (SBAS) approach coupled with Hierarchical Clustering. The effectiveness of this method is successfully demonstrated and validated in two selected areas of Rome, Italy, serving as case studies. The results of this vast-area scale monitoring can be used to select the constructions that need a more in-depth assessment.
Design and Testing of MEMS Component for Electromagnetic Pulse Protection
Authors: Li Shiyi , Feng Hengzhen , Lou Wenzhong , Zhao Yuecen , Lv Sining , Kan Wenxing
Published: January 2025

With the demand for high-safety, high-integration, and lightweight micro- and nano-electronic components, an MEMS electromagnetic energy-releasing component was innovatively designed based on the corona discharge theory. The device subverted the traditional device-level protection method for electromagnetic energy, realizing the innovation of adding a complex circuit system to the integrated chip through micro-nanometer processing technology and enhancing the chip’s size from the centimeter level to the micron level. In this paper, the working performance of the MEMS electromagnetic energy-releasing component was verified through a combination of a simulation, a static experiment, and a dynamic test, and a characterization test of the tested MEMS electromagnetic energy-releasing component was carried out to thoroughly analyze the effect of the MEMS electromagnetic energy-releasing component. The results showed that after the strong electromagnetic pulse injection, the pulse breakdown voltage of the MEMS electromagnetic energy-releasing component increased exponentially in terms of the pulse injection voltage, and the residual pulse current decreased significantly from one-third to one-half of the original, representing a significant protective effect. In a DC environment, the breakdown voltage of the needle–needle structure of the MEMS electromagnetic energy-releasing component was 144 V, and the on-time was about 0.5 ms.
Characterization of Micro-Crack Orientation in a Thin Plate Using Quasi-Static Component Generated by Incident Ultrasonic Lamb Waves
Authors: Zhao Liang , Zhou Jun , Yuan Weifeng , Gu Bin , Deng Mingxi , Xu Caibin , Ding Xiangyan , Qi Zhengpan , Wang Jishuo , Ying Qin
Published: January 2025

The directivity of the quasi-static component (QSC) is quantitatively investigated for evaluating the orientation of a micro-crack buried in a thin solid plate using the numerical simulation method. Based on the bilinear stress–strain constitutive model, a three-dimensional (3D) finite element model (FEM) is built for investigating the nonlinear interaction between primary Lamb waves and the micro-crack. When the primary Lamb waves at A0 mode impinge on the micro-crack, under the modulation of the contact acoustic nonlinearity (CAN), the micro-crack itself will induce QSC. The amplitude of the QSC generated can be used for directly charactering the micro-crack orientation. The finite element simulation results show that the directivity of the QSC radiated by the micro-crack is closely related to the orientation of the micro-crack, allowing for the characterization of micro-crack orientation without the need for baseline signals. The results indicate that the directionality of the QSC can be used for characterizing the orientation of the micro-crack. The amplitude of the QSC is affected by the contact area between two surfaces of the micro-crack. It is demonstrated that the proposed method is a feasible means for the characterization of micro-crack orientation.
Evaluation of the Social Performance of Urban Stormwater Parks: A Case Study in Jinhua, Zhejiang
Authors: Su Yaohui , Shu Lingxiao
Published: January 2025

An urban rain flood park refers to a park built with ecological function as the guide. The aim of this study is to examine the social benefits of urban stormwater landscapes. By establishing an evaluation model, conducting field research and analysis, comparing parks, and applying mathematical model analysis, the feedback from various user groups is assessed. The purpose is to explore whether ecologically oriented urban stormwater parks offer superior social benefits and to provide references for optimizing the benefits of urban stormwater park design. The paper selects Yanweizhou Park, Zhejiang Jinhua, a representative of innovative design practices in an urban rainwater park in China, as a case study for evaluation research and introduces the traditional park, Wuzhou Park, for comparison. The results show that Yanweizhou Park, which is designed based on ecology as the first principle, is still highly evaluated in terms of social performance. People think that ecological parks are more representative of the urban image. The eco-park is more popular with young people and more dispersed in activities. Both types of parks suffer from insufficient infrastructure construction.
A Study on the Impact of a Community Green Space Built Environment on Physical Activity in Older People from a Health Perspective: A Case Study of Qingshan District, Wuhan
Authors: Shen Jie , Fan Junhang , Wu Shi , Xu Xi , Fei Yuanbo , Liu Zhentian , Xiong Shijia
Published: January 2025

(1) Background: In the context of global population aging, how to enhance the health of older people has become a focus of attention in various fields. Although it is widely recognized that the effects of urban green space built environments on physical activity can substantially improve the health of older people, few studies have been conducted to understand the relationship between green spaces, physical activity, and the health of older people at the community level. This research gap has become a key issue hindering the sustainable development of health among the elderly. (2) Methods: This study used survey data from 1989 elderly individuals in Qingshan District, Wuhan, and applied multiple linear regression models to explore the relationship between community green space built environments and the overall intensity of physical activity, as well as the relationship with low, moderate, and high-intensity physical activity levels. (3) Results: The results show that education level, income level, health status, companionship, green view index, road cleanliness, and fitness facilities are positively correlated with the overall intensity of physical activity, while gender, age, self-assessed psychological stress, and road intersection density are negatively correlated with it. Companionship, green view index, road cleanliness, and recreational facilities are positively correlated with low-intensity physical activity levels among the elderly, while gender, income level, and fitness facilities are negatively correlated with them. Companionship, green view index, and road cleanliness are positively correlated with moderate-intensity physical activity among the elderly, while gender is negatively correlated with it. For high-intensity activities, education level and fitness facilities are positively correlated, while gender, self-assessed psychological stress, and road intersection density are negatively correlated. (4) Conclusions: Future research could expand the sample size while incorporating more longitudinal designs, expand the types of influencing factors, conduct more detailed classifications, and carry out broader data collection procedures to comprehensively analyze the effects of the community green space built environment on physical activity among older people, providing a stronger scientific basis for the formulation of healthy city policies.
The Distribution of Rare Earth Elements in Coal Fly Ash Determined by LA-ICP-MS and Implications for Its Economic Significance
Authors: Wang Shuliu , Huang Wenhui , Ao Weihua
Published: January 2025

Coal fly ash represents a potential resource of some critical elements, including rare earth elements (REEs), which are retained and concentrated during coal combustion. Understanding the distribution and modes of occurrence of REEs within fly ash is vital to developing effective recovery methods and enhancing their economic value. Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) was applied to investigate the in situ elemental constituents of coal fly ash phases, including aluminosilicates, Ca-(Fe)-enriched aluminosilicates, Fe-oxides, and SiO2/Quartz, in order to explore the distribution of REEs in combustion products. LA-ICP-MS results show that V, Cr, and Nb are mainly enriched in Ca-Ti-enriched aluminosilicates with trace element concentrations referenced to the original fly ash composition. Lithium is primarily enriched in SiO2 glassy grains, followed by Ca, (Fe)-enriched aluminosilicates. Co, Ni, and Cu present a concomitant distribution in the Fe-enriched phases, such as Fe-oxides and Fe-enriched aluminosilicates. The chondrite normalized REE distribution patterns show characteristics of LREE enrichment and Eu-negative anomalies in most phases, while the REE patterns of SiO2 glassy grains have a distinct positive anomaly in Sm, Gd, and Dy, coupled with a deficiency in LREEs. Compared to feed coal, elements such as Li, V, Cr, Co, Ni, and Nb and REEs are enriched 2~10 times in various phases of fly ash, with REEs notably concentrated six times higher in aluminosilicates and Ca-Ti-enriched aluminosilicates than the original coal. This study further discusses the feasibility, calibration principles, and advantages of using LA-ICP-MS to determine REE distribution, as well as the economic implications of REE extraction from coal fly ash.
Ecosystem Health Assessment of the Zerendy District, Kazakhstan
Authors: Alipbeki Onggarbek , Grossul Pavel , Rakhimov Daniyar , Kupidura Przemyslaw , Alipbekova Chaimgul , Musaif Gauhar , Turekeldiyeva Rimma , Augambaev Kairat , Begaliyeva Maira
Published: January 2025

An ecosystem health assessment (EHA) is essential for comprehensively improving the ecological environment and socio-economic conditions, thereby promoting the sustainable development of a specific area. Most previous EHA studies have focused on urbanized regions, paying insufficient attention to rural areas with urban enclaves and national natural parks. This study employed the Basic Pressure–State–Response methodological approach. The composition of indicators (35) encompassed both spatiotemporal data and socio-economic information. The random forest algorithm was used on the Google Earth Engine platform to classify and evaluate changes in land use and land cover (LULC). In addition, weighting coefficients were calculated, and driving factors were subsequently identified. The analysis revealed that the rural administrative divisions in the central part of Zerendy district, where the city of Kokshetau is situated, exhibited a relatively low level of ecosystem health (EH). The southwestern rural administrative divisions of the studied district, where the national nature park and the reserve territories are located, exhibited a higher level of EH. Other rural administrative divisions located in the eastern parts of the district generally exhibited a moderate level of EH. Interested managers can use the results of our assessment to implement adequate measures aimed at improving the health of the Zerendy district ecosystem.
Metaverse for Manufacturing: Leveraging Extended Reality Technology for Human-Centric Production Systems
Authors: Egbengwu Vivian , Garn Wolfgang , Turner Chris J.
Published: January 2025

As we progress towards Industry 5.0, technological advancements are converging; this movement is realised by the increasing collaboration between humans and intelligent digital platforms and further enabled by the interactive visualisation modes provided by Metaverse technology. This research examines the practical applications and limitations of Metaverse technology providing insights into the transformative possibilities it offers for the manufacturing sector. Specifically, the research was guided by the core objective to trace the evolution of Metaverse technology within manufacturing. This study provides a comprehensive and state-of-the-art analysis of the adoption and impact of Metaverse technologies in the manufacturing sector. While previous research has explored aspects of Industry 4.0 and digital transformation, this study specifically focuses on human-centric manufacturing (human-in-the-loop) applications of Metaverse technology, including augmented reality, virtual reality, digital twins, and cyber-physical robotic systems. Findings from the systematic literature review indicate that Metaverse technologies, primarily augmented reality and virtual reality, have evolved into powerful tools in manufacturing. They are widely adopted across sectors in the industry, transforming processes such as product design, quality control, and maintenance. Augmented reality and virtual reality offer intuitive ways to visualise data and interact with digital twins, bridging the gap between physical and virtual realms in manufacturing. A roadmap and scenarios for the introduction of Metaverse technology in manufacturing are provided with suggested adoption timespans. Furthermore, the systematic literature review identified barriers hindering the wider adoption of Metaverse technology in manufacturing.
Measurement of Underwater Terrain in the Yangtze River Dock Area and Analysis of Its Impact on Bank Slope Stability: A Case Study in the Yangtze River
Authors: Wang Maomei , Fu Xiao , Zhao Gang , Xu Yi , Wang Zhenbing , Gu Chongshi
Published: January 2025

Due to human activities, the evolution of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River is complex, and the underwater terrain near the docks is varied. There may be serious erosion and sedimentation of the bank slope, which will affect the stability and cause engineering accidents. To explore the changes in underwater terrain and their impacts, taking a dock in Jiangsu Province in China as an example, a multi-beam bathymetry system is used to conduct full coverage measurement of the underwater terrain at the front of the dock. A comprehensive analysis method for underwater terrain is proposed from the perspectives of contour lines, cross-sections, etc., in order to monitor the changes in erosion and sedimentation in the dock area. Then, the impact of underwater terrain changes on the bank slope stability is explored by simulating the bank slope soil and the concrete pile foundation. Targeted engineering measures to ensure the stability and safety of the dock and bank slope are proposed. The methods and conclusions proposed in this manuscript, including underwater terrain measurement, analysis of the impact of underwater terrain changes on stability, and recommendations for related engineering measures, will help to ensure the long-term safe operation of docks. This research will be of great significance in reducing water conservancy accidents and promoting sustainable and efficient development of water resources.
Universal Image Vaccine Against Steganography
Authors: Wei Shiyu , Wang Zichi , Zhang Xinpeng
Published: January 2025

In the past decade, the diversification of steganographic techniques has posed significant threats to information security, necessitating effective countermeasures. Current defenses, mainly reliant on steganalysis, struggle with detection accuracy. While “image vaccines” have been proposed, they often target specific methodologies. This paper introduces a universal steganographic vaccine to enhance steganalysis accuracy. Our symmetric approach integrates with existing methods to protect images before online dissemination using the Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE) algorithm. Experimental results show significant accuracy improvements across traditional and deep learning-based steganalysis, especially at medium-to-high payloads. Specifically, for payloads of 0.1–0.5 bpp, the original detection error rate was reduced from 0.3429 to 0.2346, achieving an overall average reduction of 31.57% for traditional algorithms, while the detection success rate of deep learning-based algorithms can reach 100%. Overall, integrating CLAHE as a universal vaccine significantly advances steganalysis.
Dynamic Task Allocation for Collaborative Data Collection: A Vehicle–Drone Approach
Authors: Wu Geng , Lu Jing , Hou Dai , Zheng Lei , Han Di , Meng Haohua , Long Fei , Luo Lijun , Peng Kai
Published: January 2025

In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs, also known as drones) have gained widespread application in fields such as data collection and inspection, owing to their lightweight design and high mobility. However, due to limitations in battery life, UAVs are often unable to independently complete large-scale data collection tasks. To address this limitation, vehicle–drone collaborative data collection has emerged as an effective solution. Existing research, however, primarily focuses on collaborative work in static task scenarios, overlooking the complexities of dynamic environments. In dynamic scenarios, tasks may arrive during the execution of both the vehicle and UAV, and each drone has different positions and remaining endurance, creating an asymmetric state. This introduces new challenges for path planning. To tackle this challenge, we propose a 0–1 integer programming model aimed at minimizing the total task completion time. Additionally, we introduce an efficient dynamic solving algorithm, referred to as Greedy and Adaptive Memory Process-based Dynamic Algorithm (GAMPDA). This algorithm first generates an initial global data collection plan based on the initial task nodes and dynamically adjusts the current data collection scheme using a greedy approach as new task nodes arrive during execution. Through comparative experiments, it was demonstrated that GAMPDA outperforms SCAN and LKH in terms of time cost, vehicle travel distance, and drone flight distance and approaches the ideal results. GAMPDA significantly enhances task completion efficiency in dynamic scenarios, providing an effective solution for collaborative data collection tasks in such environments.
Predicting Earthquake Casualties and Emergency Supplies Needs Based on PCA-BO-SVM
Authors: Wang Fuyu , Xu Huiying , Ye Huifen , Li Yan , Wang Yibo
Published: January 2025

The prediction of casualties in earthquake disasters is a prerequisite for determining the quantity of emergency supplies needed and serves as the foundational work for the timely distribution of resources. In order to address challenges such as the large computational workload, tedious training process, and multiple influencing factors associated with predicting earthquake casualties, this study proposes a Support Vector Machine (SVM) model utilizing Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Bayesian Optimization (BO). The original data are first subjected to dimensionality reduction using PCA, with principal components contributing cumulatively to over 80% selected as input variables for the SVM model, while earthquake casualties are designated as the output variable. Subsequently, the optimal hyperparameters for the SVM model are obtained using the Bayesian Optimization algorithm. This approach results in the development of an earthquake casualty prediction model based on PCA-BO-SVM. Experimental results indicate that compared to the GA-SVM model, the BO-SVM model, and the PCA-GA-SVM model, the PCA-BO-SVM model exhibits a reduction in average error rates by 12.86%, 9.01%, and 2%, respectively, along with improvements in average accuracy and operational efficiency by 10.1%, 7.05%, and 0.325% and 25.5%, 18.4%, and 19.2%, respectively. These findings demonstrate that the proposed PCA-BO-SVM model can effectively and scientifically predict earthquake casualties, showcasing strong generalization capabilities and high predictive accuracy.
Assessing the Feasibility of Using a Multiplex Serological Assay to Conduct Serosurveillance for Malaria Exposure in Deployed Military Personnel
Authors: Chaudhury Sidhartha , Bolton Jessica S. , Kamau Edwin , Bergmann-Leitner Elke S.
Published: January 2025

Reproducibly assessing malaria exposure is critical for force health protection for military service members deployed to malaria-endemic regions as well as for civilians making public health decisions and evaluating malaria eradication efforts. However, malaria disease surveillance is challenged by under-reporting, natural immunity, and chemoprophylaxis, which can mask malaria exposure and lead to an underestimation of malaria prevalence. In this study, we determined the feasibility of using a serosurveillance-based approach to measure Anopheles vector exposure, Plasmodium sporozoite exposure, and blood-stage parasitemia using a multiplex serological panel. We tested post-deployment samples obtained from U.S. service members returning from regions with malaria risk to assess the potential of this serosurveillance panel. The results identified that some service members had anti-CSP antibody levels comparable to those found in endemic populations, suggesting exposure to sporozoites while those individuals were on chemoprophylaxis. We also observed isolated cases of anti-MSP1 levels that were as high as those observed in endemic populations and in CHMI studies, suggesting possible cases of clinical or subclinical parasitemia. The study demonstrated the feasibility of implementing a multiplex serology approach for conducting serosurveillance for Anopheles vector exposure and Plasmodium parasite exposure in samples collected following military deployments and its potential to support public health policies.
Sporopollen-Algae Assemblage and Its Paleoenvironmental Significance for the Kongdian Formation of Eocene Strata in Bohai Bay Basin, China
Authors: Yu Yongzhao , Wei Wenyan , Yao Yaqin , Qiu Kunqi , Yang Jilei , Ji He , Pei Xinrui , Zhang Zhenqing
Published: January 2025

Paleoenvironmental insights gleaned from geological history are profoundly important for the discovery and exploitation of mineral resources. In China’s Bohai Bay Basin, the Kongdian Formation represents the principal oil-bearing stratum from the Eocene Epoch. However, a comprehensive understanding of its paleoenvironmental evolution and stratigraphic division has been hindered by the paucity of paleontological data. To address this gap, three sedimentary cores were meticulously collected from the southern extremity of the Liaoxi Uplift within the Bohai Bay. These cores underwent a thorough sporopollen-algae analysis to elucidate their stratigraphic division and to reconstruct the associated paleoenvironmental conditions. The analysis yielded the identification of three distinct sporopollen-algae assemblages of the regional Kongdian Formation: (1) The assemblage of Divisisporites longilaesuratus-Betulaepollenites-Tiliaepollenites microreticulatus is indicative of the lower submember of the Kongdian Formation Ek2; (2) The assemblage of Polypodiaceaesporites-Alnipollenites indicates the upper submember of the Ek2; (3) The assemblage of Pterisisporites undulatus-Taxodiaceaepollenites-Ephedripites corresponds to the Kongdian Formation Ek1. These assemblages reflect a significant evolutionary trajectory of the regional plant communities throughout the Kongdian Formation. Initially, there were evergreen arbor-shrub mixed forests, which transitioned to green algae-herb-evergreen broadleaved biota and finally evolved into evergreen conifer-shrub mixed forests. This botanical evolution mirrors shifts in the paleoclimate, which experienced a progression from conditions of high temperature and high humidity through a phase of warm, semi-humid environments to eventually high temperature and semi-arid conditions.
Analysis of Soil Moisture Dynamics and Its Response to Rainfall in the Mu Us Sandy Land
Authors: Ran Bin , Xing Zhenguo , Fang Jie , Yang Yingming , He Yunlan , Li Xuejia , Liu Xiaoqing , Liu Gang
Published: January 2025

Soil moisture is key in maintaining surface energy balance and the hydrological cycle. However, the patterns of soil moisture change at different altitudes and their response to rainfall are not fully understood. The aim of this study is to analyze the changes in soil moisture at different altitudes in the Mu Us Sandy Land, assess the soil moisture response to various rainfall events, and evaluate the factors affecting this response. To achieve this, we set up two soil moisture and precipitation monitoring systems in the Ejin Horo Banner, located at the northern edge of the Mu Us Sandy Land. Results show that the annual precipitation at the site was 342.6 mm, with most rain falling between July and September. The region experiences soil drought from June to October. At the lower X1 test site, the increase in soil moisture in the 0–90 cm layer during rainfall was greater than the amount of precipitation, suggesting that lateral water flow from higher areas influences soil moisture at lower positions. This study used Grey Relational Analysis to identify the key factors influencing soil moisture changes; the result showed that the initial soil moisture and total precipitation have the strongest correlation with changes in soil moisture, making them the main factors controlling soil moisture response at the site. These findings enhance our understanding of soil moisture dynamics and provide a foundation for vegetation restoration in semi-arid sandy areas and ecosystem rehabilitation.
Parameter Analysis and Optimization of a Leakage Localization Method Based on Spatial Clustering
Authors: Huang Wending , Huang Xinrui , Chen Zanxu , Zhan Jian , Yang Hongwei , Li Xin
Published: January 2025

Leakage in water distribution systems (WDSs) causes a waste of water resources and increased carbon emissions. Rapid and accurate leakage localization to reduce the waste of water resources caused by leakages is an important way to overcome the problem. Using spatiotemporal correlation in monitoring data forms the basis of a leakage localization method proposed in a previous study. It is crucial to acknowledge that the chosen parameter settings significantly influence the localization performance of this method. This paper primarily seeks to optimize three essential parameters of this method: localization metrics weight (LMW), score threshold (ST), and the indicator of detection priority (IDP). LMW evaluates the similarity between simulated and measured pressure residuals. ST determines the size of the datasets involved in the spatial clustering, and IDP quantifies the likelihood of a true leakage within the candidate region. The leakage localization method is tested on a realistic full-scale distribution network to assess leakage flow rates and sensor noise. The results show that the optimized parameter settings could improve the efficiency and accuracy of leakage localization. Further, the findings indicate that the optimized parameter settings can enhance the effectiveness and precision of leakage localization.
Solar-Powered Freeze-Melting Desalination Model for Water and Simultaneous Cooling Applications
Authors: Castillo-Téllez Beatriz , Castillo Téllez Margarita , Romero Rosenberg J.
Published: January 2025

Freeze-melting (F/M) desalination presents a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to conventional desalination methods. In this study, we evaluated two solar-powered refrigeration systems, using BaCl2–NH3 and NH3–LiNO3 sorbent–refrigerant pairs, for seawater desalination and cooling applications. The NH3–LiNO3 system demonstrated a superior performance, achieving evaporator temperatures below −3 °C and producing up to 8 kg/day of ice. The system operated with a significantly lower energy consumption than the 3–6 kWh/m3 required by reverse osmosis (RO). Practical tests confirmed the dual functionality of the system, providing cooling for food preservation (maintaining 4 °C for 5 h) and climate control while producing desalinated water with total dissolved solids (TDS) levels of 3650 k/m3. Although the TDS remained above the WHO potable water standard, the output is suitable for irrigation and livestock watering. These results highlight the F/M desalination system’s potential to address water scarcity and cooling needs in resource-limited, off-grid regions, contributing to sustainable desalination technologies powered by renewable energy.
The Role and Promise of Governing Boards
Authors: Bohley, Jr. John P. , Spears Larry C.
Published: January 2025

The Role and Promise of Governing Boards
Servant-Leadership: Forgiving Others in the Restoration of Community
Authors: Schmidt Ryan , Dailey Kelly (Sasha)
Published: January 2025

Servant-Leadership, Feminism, and Gender Well-Being (Song et al., 2022) serves as a source of inspiration and hope when engaging with the complexities of the modern world, one marked by a growing division between people and an increased entrenchment of ideals. In looking to servant-leadership as a guide for navigating the emotional and deeply personal rhetoric pervading public forums, learnings can be found beyond the established dominant-group ideologies and mainstream reasonings. The purpose of this article is to explore how servant-leadership, an emerging leadership theory that acknowledges one’s natural feeling to serve others’ highest priority needs (Greenleaf 1977/2002), can provide a roadmap for the restoration of healthy communities through the acceptance and demonstration of love. In commenting on the themes of freedom, responsibility, and healing, this article ultimately argues that in opening one’s heart to forgiveness, one can rise above the individualistic need to be right and instead begin to mend societies’ wounds.
An Examination of Followers’ Motivation to Serve as an Antecedent of Servant-Leadership in UK Organisations
Authors: Ukeni Ijeoma G.
Published: January 2025

Motivation to serve is conceptualised as an antecedent of servant-leadership but is mostly studied from the leaders’ perspective. Yet, as in any dyadic relationship, exploring the followers’ perspective is crucial, particularly as servant-leadership is an acclaimed follower-centric leadership theory. Hence, this quantitative study is a departure from the norm with a focus on the followers’ motivation to serve (MTS). Premised on the social learning theory, data was collected from 208 respondents in UK private and public organisations using existing and adapted questionnaire surveys that were statistically analysed. The results show a correlation between motivation to serve and servant-leadership but suggest that followers’ motivation to serve is independent of their experience of servant-leadership. It also shows that some followers have a higher or natural congruence to serve than others. Practically, highly motivated followers can be potential candidates for development into servant-leadership roles. Other implications, recommendations and areas for future investigation are discussed.
Response to Phelan & Cirino
Authors: Vanderwoerd James
Published: January 2025

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