Search Results (17,176)

This study examines existing buildings in Haikou in China under tropical island climate conditions. It presents three retrofit design models for greenhouses roofs (GHR), green roofs (GR) and photovoltaic roofs (PVR). The carbon cost of each retrofit roof model is calculated in the production and transportation phases of building materials, construction, and demolition. The changes in electricity consumption, water consumption, and plant carbon reduction are coupled to calculate the carbon reduction generated by each phase of the use of the retrofitted roofs. The carbon reduction per unit area for GHR, GR and PVR over the life cycle (20 years) is then comprehensively calculated. The life cycle carbon reduction per unit area is 262.57 kg·m⁻² for GHR, 127.41 kg·m⁻² for GR and 2567.12 kg·m⁻² for PVR. Among the three retrofit methods, PVR has the greatest potential for reducing carbon emissions. The study can as a guide for implementing carbon reduction measures in tropical island areas. Domestic research on rooftop greenhouses also focuses on technology, yield, and energy consumption, mostly for northern regions with cold winters, and less research on rooftop greenhouses applied to regions with hot summers and warm winters. But domestic and foreign studies on the potential of rooftop greenhouses to reduce emissions have not yet been combined with plant cultivation of hydroelectric carbon emissions and plant carbon sequestration. Full article

The aim of this paper is to study the corrosion mechanism of CaO-MgO-Al₂O₃-SiO₂ (CMAS) powder and CMAS + NaVO₃ (hereafter referred to as CN) mixed powder on a yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) block at different temperatures. In this paper, the CMAS and CN corrosion behavior of YSZ at 1200 °C and 1250 °C was studied. The results show that at 1200 °C, CMAS cannot completely melt, causing limited damage to YSZ. However, CN melts completely at this temperature, partially penetrating the YSZ interior and causing surface corrosion. At 1250 °C, both CMAS and CN melt completely. CMAS, characterized by high viscosity and shallow penetration, seriously damaged the YSZ surface layer. In contrast, CN, with its lower viscosity and enhanced penetration capability, induces internal corrosion of YSZ. Through the analysis of the corrosion mechanisms of CMAS and CN, it is concluded that CN poses a more significant threat to the integrity of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs). Full article

Background: This study aimed to analyze the research progress on the use of a multifocal lens for myopic control throughout the 21st century, utilizing bibliometric analysis. Methods: Publications related to multifocal lenses from 2001 to 2024 were searched on the Web of Science core collection (WoSCC) database. VOSviewer (Version 1.6.19) and Bibliometrix package (Version 4.3.0) were used to perform the bibliometric analysis. Primary information including the publication number per year, country or region, journal, keyword, and title of the literature was extracted and analyzed. Results: A total of 234 articles from 31 countries were retrieved. The number of publications related to multifocal lenses had a rapid growth phase from 2016 to 2024. The United States, Australia, China, and Spain emerged as leading contributors to the research landscape. Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics was the most popular journal in this field, and the most frequently cited article was published in Optometry and Vision Science. Myopic progression was the main topic in this research field as well as the principal keywords of emerging research hotspots. Conclusions: Our bibliometric study provides a pioneering overview of the research trends and evolution in the application of a multifocal lens for myopic control. These findings provide a deep insight into current research frontiers and hot directions, offering a valuable reference for further research. Full article

During the past decades, to minimize Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and asphalt fumes during the asphalt mix production and construction process, various warm mix asphalt (WMA) additives have been developed and successfully applied. Currently, as production of WMA reaches close to that of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) in the US, the varied definition of WMA is questioned in this paper. Not only are the temperature reduction ranges from HMA defined by various studies too wide, but also the minimum threshold to be classified as WMA is often too small. In this paper, a new category of “Cool Mix Asphalt (CMA)” is proposed to distinguish it from the newly defined WMA based not on the reduction amount from HMA temperature but its actual production temperature. It is proposed that HMA should be defined as asphalt mixtures produced at temperatures between 140 and 160 °C (between 284 and 320 °F), WMA as production temperatures between 120 and 140 °C (between 248 and 284 °F), and CMA as production temperatures between 100 and 120 °C (212 to 248 °F). By defining their actual production temperatures rather than reduction temperatures from HMA, WMA and CMA will be clearly defined. This paper then presents a new Polymer Cool Mix Asphalt (PCMA) additive called “Zero-M”, which was developed to lower the mixing temperature to around 110 °C (203 °F). Recently, test sections using Zero-M were successfully constructed in Korea, Italy and Vietnam, and their laboratory test results of field cores and production and construction experiences are described in this paper. The chemistry and compositions of Zero-M are discussed along with its mechanism to significantly lower the production temperature of PCMA. All test sections constructed in three countries met the in-place compaction density requirements of their respective countries, which were close to or higher than those of the control HMA test sections. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study describes the sequelae, side effects, and toxicities experienced by Canadian breast cancer survivors at a breast cancer survivorship clinic at a tertiary academic cancer centre and identifies potential risk factors which may be associated with increased side effect burden. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed of adult patients treated at the Sunnybrook Breast Cancer Survivorship Clinic from 6 July 2022, to 30 September 2023 (n = 435). Results: Most patients (72.6%) reported at least one side effect impacting their quality of life, and a smaller majority (55.4%) reported two or more side effects. The most common symptoms experienced were anxiety (29.4%), chronic pain (23.9%), hot flashes (21.4%), and fear of recurrence (19.8%). Older age was strongly correlated with a lower likelihood of experiencing greater side effect burden (p < 0.01). Patients who underwent chemotherapy were significantly more likely to experience higher side effect burden than patients who did not. Current smokers were more likely than nonsmokers or past smokers to have a higher burden, for both physical (p < 0.01) and psychological side effects (p < 0.01). The multivariate analysis demonstrated that younger age was strongly associated with greater side effect burden, higher likelihood of psychological and physical symptoms, and greater likelihood of requiring close follow-up. Conclusions: The results highlight the need for survivorship resources tailored to survivors under the age of 55 and the importance of referring smokers to smoking cessation programs. Additional research is required to explore the significant reluctance among patients regarding discharge. Future studies should examine the acute needs of younger breast cancer survivors and investigate the impact of smoking and treatment modalities on the side effect burden. Full article

In this short review, recent findings from both theory and experiment regarding the process of hydration of α-, β-, and γ-cyclodextrins are summarized and critically assessed. Key important questions are addressed, including: What factors govern the number of water molecules entrapped in the internal cavity of the host macrocycle? What is the driving force behind this process? What are the “hot spots” for water entrapment inside the host cavity? What is the underlying mechanism of water hydration and dehydration of cyclodextrins? What is the role of the confined water cluster in determining the outcome of the host–guest complexation between cyclodextrins and molecules of inorganic/organic nature? To what extent does water hydration affect the crystalline structure of the cavitand? Full article

The study examined the corrosion and wear characteristics of hot-dip galvanized steel in complex soil environments. The results showed that hot-dip galvanized steel exhibited improved corrosion resistance characteristics. Additionally, the sliding speed was observed to influence both the coefficient of friction (COF) and the state of the worn surface. Moreover, the corrosion resistance of hot-dip galvanized steel declined as the immersion period increased. Following the incorporation of friction behavior, the galvanized layer is prone to accelerated degradation. The wear of the galvanized layer resulted in the failure of its electrochemical protection, creating a pathway for corrosion to occur on the substrate as a result of the coupling effect of corrosion and wear. The use of hot-dip galvanized steel presents challenges when exposed to a tribocorrosion environment for a prolonged period. This study lays the groundwork for future research on the maintenance cycle of industrial structures constructed primarily with hot-dip galvanized steel. Full article

Phytoremediation, a sustainable approach, is a hot topic, particularly for harsh mining environments. The Baiyin copper mine, a typical example of massive sulfide deposits, retains value as a national park after closure. Our research on it aimed to explore phytoremediation. By studying the plant community’s phyto-sociological attributes, we found that plants maintained long-term stability, with restoration potential. And the top-level dominant species, Lycium chinense and Nitraria tangutorum, were selected as candidate repair plants based on importance value. Then, we assessed soil heavy metals using pollution indices and found that Pb, As, and Cd were the primary contributors, along with Cu and Zn, causing pollution. Next, we determined the repair ability of two candidate repair plants through their accumulation effect and transport efficiency, finding that both had strong tolerance to these heavy metals and accumulated similar amounts, except for Cu, which was slightly lower than expected; however, Lycium compensated for this with its higher Cu conversion rate, leading to its final recommendation. Lycium has an uncommon advantage: during extraction of active ingredients, it can remove heavy metals as impurities, preserving economic value. This discovery provides the idea, theoretical basis, and pioneer plant for the phytoremediation of sulfide deposits like the Baiyin copper mine, particularly in northwestern China’s mining regions. Full article

Background: Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is relatively common but challenging to diagnose clinically. Several clinical signs may be used, with unknown performances. We evaluated and compared the diagnostic performance of individual and combined clinical signs (trismus, edema, pharynx immobility, uvula deviation, hot potato voice, and overall clinical impression) assessed by an otolaryngologist and of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) to detect acute PTA. Methods: Prospective study in 133 consecutive adult patients (77 males, mean age = 33 years) with suspected clinical PTA and CT obtained in the emergency setting of a tertiary care hospital between November 2020 and October 2022. The standard of reference consisted of surgically proven pus within 24 h of CT or a favorable clinical evolution at 48 h without surgical intervention. Results: PTA was present in 117/133 (88%) patients, with no difference between mean age or sex distribution between the groups with and without PTA. None of the evaluated clinical signs were associated with PTA (OR = 1.26–5.43, p > 0.05), whereas the CT finding “abscess” was significantly associated with PTA (OR = 67.2, p < 0.0001). The sensitivity of individual clinical signs varied between 19.7% and 73.5%, and the sensitivity of CT was significantly higher for all clinical signs (95.7%, p < 0.0001) except for overall clinical impression (97.4%, p = 0.7266). The specificity of clinical signs varied between 12.5% and 93.8%, and the specificity of CT was significantly higher (75%, p < 0.05) for overall clinical impression and edema. All clinical signs together yielded an area under the curve (AUC) = 0.677. Conclusions: In adults, clinical assessment alone using independent clinical signs and overall clinical impression does not allow a reliable diagnosis of PTA, even when performed by an otolaryngologist. CT is reliable in diagnosing PTA and, whenever available, should be the examination method of choice for diagnosing PTA, especially by a non-specialist. Full article

To obtain sustainable food packaging materials, alternatives to traditional ones must be researched. In this work, two different kinds of zeolites, i.e., a natural one, Clinoptilolite, and a synthetic one, Zeolite Na-X, were mixed with thermoplastic polyurethane for the fabrication of composites. Composite films were prepared via a hot mixing stage and then by means of a hot compression molding process. Several TPU/zeolite composites were produced with a filler concentration ranging from 5% to 10%wt. Finally, the obtained films were characterized by Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (FT-IR, ATR), thermal analysis (TGA and DSC), frequency sweep test, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mechanical tensile test and oxygen permeability test. For both fillers and at all concentrations, the inclusion of zeolites significantly influenced the analyzed properties. In the TPU/zeolite composites, an overall enhancement was observed compared to the neat polymer, attributed to improved processability, superior barrier properties and the potential to create active materials by loading zeolite combined with various chemicals for specific applications. These findings suggest that the resulting composites hold considerable promise for applications in the food packaging sector. Full article

Reproductive traits and plant–pollinator interactions largely depend on seasonal weather conditions, which are species-specific. Turnera ulmifolia is an ornamental plant distributed worldwide. There is little information about plant species’ reproductive ecology and environmental factors’ impact on it. Here, we aimed to examine the effects of seasonal atmospheric factors (e.g., temperature, light, relative humidity, rainfall) and photoperiod on flowering, interactions with flower visitors, and the reproductive success of Turnera ulmifolia in West Bengal, India. Flowering intensity peaked in hot summers and dropped in cold winters, correlating positively with temperature and humidity. Flower opening and closing occurred earlier on hot days, while flower longevity increased in winter, showing a negative correlation with temperature and humidity. Pollen and ovule production were lower in cold weather, positively linked to temperature and humidity. The self-compatible plant was moderately dependent on pollinators and had no pollination deficit in open conditions. Visitor abundance, richness, and diversity varied season-wise, with higher values during spring–summer. Based on pollinating agents, the plant showed multiple pollination modes (e.g., melittophily, myophily, myrmecophily, and psychophily). Effective pollinators were Amegilla zonata, Borbo cinnara, Halictus acrocephalus, Nomia (Curvinomia) strigata, and Tetragonula iridipennis. The fruit set (%) did not differ significantly season-wise, but the seed set remained higher in the hot days of summer than in cold winter. Therefore, it can be concluded that atmospheric factors and photoperiod significantly impact floral traits, plant–pollinator interactions, and plant reproduction. Full article

Increasing the flame retardancy of lignocellulosic materials such as Miscanthus × giganteus can effectively enable their wide use. This study examines the fireproofing process of Miscanthus particles using an eco-friendly process by grafting phytic acid and urea in aqueous solution. Miscanthus particles underwent a steam explosion step before being grafted. Fireproof binderless particle panels were manufactured from miscanthus particles with or without adding olive pomace by hot-pressing. The effect of the steam explosion and/or the flame-retardant treatment on the morphology, chemical composition and thermal stability of the particles, as well as the thermal stability of the panels, was investigated. The results showed that water impregnation followed by a steam explosion at 210 °C for 8 min resulted in particles that were rich in lignin and more homogeneous in size (length and width). Fireproof particles were produced with relatively low P and N contents. The flame retardancy of the binderless particle panels was significantly improved when using miscanthus particles treated with phytic acid and urea, as shown by a reduced heat release (HRR) and an increased time-to-ignition. However, the presence of olive pomace significantly decreased the flame retardancy of the panels. Binderless particle panels prepared from grafted miscanthus particles showed the best fire properties and are considered fireproof. Full article

Nowadays, new data-driven science paradigms have been revolutionizing the way of acquiring knowledge and its derivatives. In addition, understanding the knowledge structure of a specific domain is valuable to the application/transformation of science in practice, especially in the era where biodiversity is given top priority. This study combines both performance analysis and science mapping to detect, quantify, and visualize the predominant themes covered by research on giant pandas and their conservation, collected from the Web of Science during the period of 1929–2022. In total, 1456 publications were analyzed with 2090 valid keywords. Twenty-four main themes were detected using co-word analysis. The most productive themes were WOLONG-NATURE-RESERVE, CLIMATE-CHANGE, CARNIVORA, NATURE-RESERVE, and ECOSYSTEM-SERVICES, according to the number of published documents, and the most impacting ones were WOLONG-NATURE-RESERVE, CARNIVORA, CLIMATE-CHANGE, ECOSYSTEM-SERVICES, DNA, and BACTERIA according to the citations, whereas the h-index indicates that the top six themes were: WOLONG-NATURE-RESERVE, CARNIVORA, CLIMATE-CHANGE, ECOSYSTEM-SERVICES, NATURE-RESERVE, and AILURUS-FULGENS. As a result, this indicates worthwhile prospects for the future study of giant panda conservation, which will focus more on the following hot themes: GUT-MICROBIOTA, ECOSYSTEM-SERVICES, HABITAT, and CLIMATE-CHANGE. Meanwhile, WOLONG still takes center stage in giant panda research. Therefore, by building a more comprehensive conceptual structure of giant panda research, this study contributes to current and future developments in this field. Full article

Powder nickel-based superalloy is the key material for hot-end components such as turbine disks and gas engine disks in aeroengines, and its microstructure uniformity has an important influence on the disks’ service performance. However, thermomechanical treatments make it easy to produce abnormally large grains (ALGs) in powder superalloy disks. In order to investigate the relationship between the hot deformation conditions and ALGs of powder superalloys, isothermal compression experiments under various deformation conditions were carried out and a FE-CA method was constructed to investigate the ALGs formed by the limited recrystallization mechanism. The results indicate a close relationship between the ALGs formed after the supersolvus treatment of this alloy and the equivalent stress after thermal deformation, and the local dissolution of the γ′ phase in supersolvus heat treatment does not produce ALGs. Full article

The thermal and optical behavior of different elements in the urban environment is critical for urban climate regulation and planning. This study investigates the micrometeorological conditions prevailing in an urban green space (UGS) in Greece, during the heatwave of July 2023, addressing the effects of various surface materials on thermal dynamics and the urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon. The research is based on ground surface temperature and albedo measurements on different materials in the UGS, in the morning and at noon, showing great temperature differences between the different types of materials. The findings highlight the complex interaction between high-albedo surfaces and surface temperature values, suggesting that the proper selection of materials can highly affect the optical and thermal behavior of the urban environment. Artificial materials absorb more heat compared to natural vegetation, leading to high surface temperature values, reaching at noon, for example, 58.9 °C for asphalt. For the natural surfaces, dry bare soil presents similar thermal behavior (64.1 °C at noon), while green surfaces had much lower temperatures (e.g., 38.3 °C for grass). Thermal comfort indices revealed that July 2023 experienced extensive “very hot” conditions, imposing the urgent need for strategic urban planning to mitigate heat impacts. The study highlights that in order to create climate-resilient environments and improve thermal comfort, it is crucial to include suitable materials and a variety of vegetation in urban design. Such insights into the complex nature of urban microclimate indicates also the issue of the careful selection of materials and plant species in urban greening initiatives to help cities face the UHI phenomenon. Full article