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27 pages, 15561 KiB  
Article
Carbon-Negative Nano-TiO2-Modified Photocatalytic Cementitious Composites: Removal of Airborne Pollutants (NOx and O3) and Its Impact on CO2 Footprint
by Maciej Kalinowski, Karol Chilmon and Wioletta Jackiewicz-Rek
Coatings 2024, 14(12), 1607; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14121607 (registering DOI) - 23 Dec 2024
Abstract
This study explores the development and performance of photocatalytic cementitious composites modified with nano-TiO2 to address urban air quality and sustainability challenges. Nine mortar series were prepared, incorporating binders with varying carbon footprints and mass contents across different series. The interplay between [...] Read more.
This study explores the development and performance of photocatalytic cementitious composites modified with nano-TiO2 to address urban air quality and sustainability challenges. Nine mortar series were prepared, incorporating binders with varying carbon footprints and mass contents across different series. The interplay between the fundamental (abrasion resistance) and functional (air purification efficiency) properties of the composites’ surfaces and interfaces was investigated. The photocatalytic removal of airborne pollutants, specifically nitrogen oxides (NOx) and ozone (O3), was evaluated under simulated environmental conditions. The variations in binder composition influenced the composites’ overall initial carbon footprint and air purification efficiency. The assessment revealed a possible net decrease in carbon emissions over the life cycle of the composite due to the removal of ozone (greenhouse gas) and its precursor—NOx, highlighting the potential of photocatalytic cementitious composites for dual environmental benefits in an urban environment, emphasizing the critical role of surface and interface engineering in achieving carbon-negative composites. Full article
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Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Research framework; *—type of binder used in the study, either CEM I 42.5R or CEM II/B-S 42.5R.</p>
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<p>Laboratory setup for determining the efficiency of air purification from NOx and O<sub>3.</sub> * MFM—mass flow controller module.</p>
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<p>A schematic representation of the test procedure for the NOx removal rate.</p>
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<p>A schematic representation of the test procedure for the O<sub>3</sub> removal rate.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Grain size distribution of binders and quartz powder used in the study; (<b>b</b>) TEM micrograph of a quartz filler grain (of regular/angular surface morphology). TEM analysis was performed on copper grids covered with a carbon film. (Microscope: TEM Tecnai TF 20 X-TWIN (FEI Company, Hillsboro, OR, USA). Parameters: EDAX; voltage, 200 kV; the STEM images were collected using the HAADF detector.)</p>
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<p>TEM micrographs of nano-TiO<sub>2</sub> photocatalytic materials (of regular/spherical surface morphology): (<b>a</b>) TiO<sub>2</sub>(P)—first-generation photocatalyst; (<b>b</b>) TiO<sub>2</sub>(K)—second-generation photocatalyst. TEM analysis was performed on copper grids covered with a carbon film. (Microscope: TEM Tecnai TF 20 X-TWIN. Parameters: EDAX; voltage, 200 kV; the STEM images were collected using the HAADF detector.)</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Flexural strength. (<b>b</b>) Compressive strength of mortars investigated in the study after 2 and 28 days of curing as a function of the binder-to-filler ratio and percentage mass content of the CEM II/B-S 42.5R binder.</p>
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<p>The abrasion wear depth of mortars investigated in the study calculated based on abrasion resistance tests conducted on the Bohme disk.</p>
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<p>The photocatalytic removal rate of nitric oxides (NO) and the generation rate of NO<sub>2</sub> under investigated light conditions for mortars investigated in the study; (<b>a</b>)—under visible light; (<b>b</b>) under UV-a light; (<b>c</b>) under combined light.</p>
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<p>The photocatalytic removal rate of nitric oxides (NO) and the generation rate of NO<sub>2</sub> under investigated light conditions for mortars investigated in the study; (<b>a</b>)—under visible light; (<b>b</b>) under UV-a light; (<b>c</b>) under combined light.</p>
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<p>The photocatalytic removal rate of ozone (O<sub>3</sub>) under combined light irradiation conditions calculated for mortars investigated in the study.</p>
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<p>Binarized EDS mappings and corresponding heatmaps illustrating the TiO<sub>2</sub> distribution on the photoactive surfaces of (<b>a</b>) the PCM-3 sample and (<b>b</b>) the PCM-6 sample (Abbreviations: MtiC—Mean TiO<sub>2</sub> coverage).</p>
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<p>Probability density distribution for the log-normal distribution of σ-values in a range adopted in the study, (<b>a</b>)—for σ-values between 0.25 and 2.00; (<b>b</b>)—for σ-values between 3.00 and 10.00.</p>
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<p>Modeled yearly NO<sub>2</sub> and O<sub>3</sub> removal rates according to a log-normal model simulation distribution with four highlighted analyzed model parameters (sum of 4380 simulated hourly removal rates) and histograms of hourly removal rates for (<b>a</b>) favorable environmental conditions (σ = 0.50); (<b>b</b>) normal environmental conditions (σ = 2.25); (<b>c</b>) unfavorable environmental conditions (σ = 5.0); and (<b>d</b>) extremely unfavorable environmental conditions (σ = 10.0).</p>
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<p>Surfaces generated from regression Equations (3)–(6) illustrating the relationship between the content of CEM II/B-S in the binder, the binder-to-filler ratio (b/f), and the Annual Removal Rate under (<b>a</b>) Extremely Unfavorable Conditions, (<b>b</b>) Unfavorable Conditions, (<b>c</b>) Normal Conditions, and (<b>d</b>) Favorable Conditions.</p>
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<p>Surfaces generated from regression Equations (3)–(6) illustrating the relationship between the content of CEM II/B-S in the binder, the binder-to-filler ratio (b/f), and the Annual Removal Rate under (<b>a</b>) Extremely Unfavorable Conditions, (<b>b</b>) Unfavorable Conditions, (<b>c</b>) Normal Conditions, and (<b>d</b>) Favorable Conditions.</p>
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17 pages, 933 KiB  
Systematic Review
Transoral Robotic Surgery for Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Systematic Literature Review of Current Practices
by Stavroula Mouratidou and Konstantinos Chaidas
Life 2024, 14(12), 1700; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14121700 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for tongue base reduction (TBR) and/or epiglottic surgery is an effective treatment option for selected patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). This systematic review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of current practices and challenges associated [...] Read more.
Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for tongue base reduction (TBR) and/or epiglottic surgery is an effective treatment option for selected patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). This systematic review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of current practices and challenges associated with TORS for OSA. PubMed and Embase databases were searched up to December 2022 following PRISMA guidelines. Primary outcome measures were surgical technique, intraoperative measures, postoperative management and complications. A total of 32 articles, including 2546 patients, met the inclusion criteria. TORS was most commonly performed as part of a multilevel surgical approach. Nasotracheal intubation was the preferred method for general anaesthesia. The surgical technique for TORS tongue base and epiglottis did not differ significantly among institutions, although some variations exist. Postoperative management varied, with most authors aiming for immediate postoperative extubation, routine postoperative ward admission and early oral intake initiation. Common postoperative complications were dysphagia and bleeding, with no reported mortality. TORS is established as a safe and feasible surgical option for selected OSA patients, addressing tongue base and/or epiglottic obstruction. However, further studies are required to determine patients’ selection criteria, preferred volume of excised tongue tissue and to assess the necessity for postoperative intensive care unit monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives)
25 pages, 55988 KiB  
Article
Temporal and Spatial Variation in Habitat Quality in Guangxi Based on PLUS-InVEST Model
by Chuntian Pan, Jun Wen and Jianing Ma
Land 2024, 13(12), 2250; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13122250 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Despite Guangxi’s unique ecological diversity and its important role in land-based ecological security and conservation, research on the assessment and prediction of its habitat quality under the influences of rapid urbanization and environmental pressures remains limited. This study systematically analyzes the spatial and [...] Read more.
Despite Guangxi’s unique ecological diversity and its important role in land-based ecological security and conservation, research on the assessment and prediction of its habitat quality under the influences of rapid urbanization and environmental pressures remains limited. This study systematically analyzes the spatial and temporal dynamics of land use and habitat quality in Guangxi from 2000 to 2020 using the PLUS-InVEST model and simulates future scenarios for 2030. These scenarios include the Natural Development (ND) scenario, Urban Development (UD) scenario, and Cropland and Ecological Protection (CE) scenario. The results indicate the following: (1) Over the past two decades, rapid urban and construction land expansions in Guangxi intensified their negative impact on habitat degradation. Additionally, the disproportionate change between rural settlement land and rural population warrants attention. (2) Although ecological restoration measures have played a positive role in mitigating habitat degradation, their effects have been insufficient to counterbalance the negative impacts of construction land expansion, highlighting the need for balanced land use planning and urbanization policies. (3) The expansion of rural residential areas had a greater impact on regional habitat quality degradation than urban and infrastructure expansion. Moderate urbanization may contribute to habitat quality improvement. (4) The CE scenario shows the most significant improvement in habitat quality (an increase of 0.13%), followed by the UD scenario, which alleviates habitat degradation by reducing pressure on rural land. In contrast, the ND scenario predicts further declines in habitat quality. Furthermore, land use planning, restoration measures, and sustainable development policies are key factors influencing habitat quality changes. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating land use strategies with ecological restoration measures to balance economic growth and biodiversity conservation, especially in rapidly urbanizing regions. Full article
21 pages, 2263 KiB  
Article
The Analysis of the Spatial–Temporal Evolution and Driving Effect of Land Use Change on Carbon Storage in the Urban Agglomeration in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River
by Shenglin Li, Peng Shi, Xiaohuang Liu, Jiufen Liu, Run Liu, Ping Zhu, Chao Wang and Yan Zheng
Water 2024, 16(24), 3711; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16243711 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Studying the temporal and spatial variation characteristics and driving factors of carbon reserves in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River urban agglomeration is crucial for achieving sustainable development and regional ecological conservation against the backdrop of the “double carbon” plan. Based on [...] Read more.
Studying the temporal and spatial variation characteristics and driving factors of carbon reserves in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River urban agglomeration is crucial for achieving sustainable development and regional ecological conservation against the backdrop of the “double carbon” plan. Based on three periods of land use data from 2000 to 2020, combined with the InVEST model(Version 3.14.2), the spatiotemporal changes in carbon storage in the urban agglomeration in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River were analyzed. The PLUS model (Version 1.3.5) was used to predict three scenarios of natural development, urban development, and eco-development in the urban agglomeration in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River in 2035 and estimate the carbon storage of the ecosystems under different scenarios, and it used optimal parameter GeoDetectors (Version 4.4.2) to reveal the driving factors affecting the spatiotemporal differentiation of carbon storage. The results show that farmland and construction land area increased and forestland area continued to decrease from 2000 to 2020. Carbon storage decreased by 1 × 106 t, with forestland conversion to farmland and construction land being the main decreasing drivers. The carbon storage of natural and urban developments decreased by 0.26 × 106 t and 0.32 × 106 t, while it increased by 0.16 × 106 under ecological development. The results of the factor detector showed that the NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) had the highest explanatory power on the spatiotemporal variation in carbon storage (q = 0.588), followed by the slope (q = 0.454) and elevation (q = 0.391), and the explanatory power of natural environmental factors on the spatiotemporal variation in of carbon storage was dominant. The interaction detector results showed that the spatiotemporal variation in carbon storage was affected by multiple factors, the interaction intensity between each driving factor was stronger than that of a single factor, and the synergy between the NDVI and slope was the strongest, at q = 0.646. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Urban Water Management)
23 pages, 9787 KiB  
Article
Monitoring Ionospheric and Atmospheric Conditions During the 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquake Period
by Serkan Doğanalp and İrem Köz
Atmosphere 2024, 15(12), 1542; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15121542 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Recent advancements have led to a growing prevalence of studies examining ionospheric and atmospheric anomalies as potential precursors to earthquakes. In this context, the study involved analyzing variations in ionospheric total electron content (TEC), investigating anomalies, assessing space weather conditions, and examining changes [...] Read more.
Recent advancements have led to a growing prevalence of studies examining ionospheric and atmospheric anomalies as potential precursors to earthquakes. In this context, the study involved analyzing variations in ionospheric total electron content (TEC), investigating anomalies, assessing space weather conditions, and examining changes in atmospheric parameters to evaluate potential precursors and post-seismic effects related to the Mw 7.7 and Mw 7.6 earthquakes that struck Kahramanmaraş consecutively in 2023. To compute the total electron content (TEC) values, data from 29 GNSS receivers covering a period of approximately 49 days were processed. In addition, since identical code signals were not available among all receiver stations, the study conducted an analysis of TEC estimations applying different GPS codes. To analyze space weather conditions, which are considered the main source of changes in the ionosphere, variations in sunspot number, solar activity index, magnetic activity indices (Kp and Dst), and geomagnetic field components were examined across the relevant period. To assess the potential presence of a distinct relationship between seismic activity at the Earth’s surface and ionospheric conditions, atmospheric parameters including temperature, relative humidity, and pressure were meticulously monitored and evaluated. As a result of the study, it was determined that TEC anomalies that could be evaluated as earthquake precursors independent of space weather conditions were observed starting from the 3rd day before the earthquake, and high positive TEC anomalies occurred immediately after the earthquakes. In atmospheric parameters, the change in behavior, particularly in temperature value, 10 days before the earthquake, is noteworthy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Observations and Analysis of Upper Atmosphere)
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<p>Study area and GNSS stations.</p>
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<p>CORS-TR stations and LTAU sounding station.</p>
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<p>EKZ1 station GPS–VTEC variation (<b>top</b>) and anomaly (<b>bottom</b>) graphs.</p>
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<p>MAR1 station GPS–VTEC variation (<b>top</b>) and anomaly (<b>bottom</b>) graphs.</p>
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<p>ANTE station GPS–VTEC variation (<b>top</b>) and anomaly (<b>bottom</b>) graphs.</p>
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<p>ONIY station GPS–VTEC variation (<b>top</b>) and anomaly (<b>bottom</b>) graphs.</p>
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<p>Space weather conditions during the earthquake period.</p>
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<p>Temporal cross–correlation patterns between TEC anomalies and space weather conditions. Dark blue lines represent the confidence bounds and red points indicate the value of correlation.</p>
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<p>Atmospheric data from LTAU sounding station (2020–2023).</p>
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<p>Temporal cross–correlation patterns between TEC anomalies and atmospheric parameters. Dark blue lines represent the confidence bounds and red points indicate the value of correlation.</p>
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<p>GPS–VTEC variation (<b>top</b>) and anomaly (<b>bottom</b>) graphs for the stations (MGOS, SILF, MRSI, ADN2, HAT2, BSHM).</p>
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<p>GPS–VTEC variation (<b>top</b>) and anomaly (<b>bottom</b>) graphs for the stations (RAMO, POZA, NIGD, KAY1, FEEK, TUF1).</p>
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<p>GPS–VTEC variation (<b>top</b>) and anomaly (<b>bottom</b>) graphs for the stations (TUBI, GURU, ADY1, MLY1, SIV1, ELAZ).</p>
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<p>GPS–VTEC variation (<b>top</b>) and anomaly (<b>bottom</b>) graphs for the stations (ERGN, ARUC, ZECK, KLS1, AKLE, VIR2, BHR4).</p>
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24 pages, 6287 KiB  
Article
Quantitative Genetic Aspects of Accuracy of Tree Biomass Measurement Using LiDAR
by Haruka Sano, Naoko Miura, Minoru Inamori, Yamato Unno, Wei Guo, Sachiko Isobe, Kazutaka Kusunoki and Hiroyoshi Iwata
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(24), 4790; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16244790 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
The growing focus on the role of forests in carbon sequestration highlights the importance of accurately and efficiently measuring biophysical traits, such as diameter at breast height (DBH) and tree height. Understanding genetic contributions to trait variation is crucial for enhancing carbon storage [...] Read more.
The growing focus on the role of forests in carbon sequestration highlights the importance of accurately and efficiently measuring biophysical traits, such as diameter at breast height (DBH) and tree height. Understanding genetic contributions to trait variation is crucial for enhancing carbon storage through the genetic improvement of forest trees. Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) has been used to estimate DBH and tree height; however, few studies have explored the heritability of these traits or assessed the accuracy of biomass increment selection based on them. Therefore, this study aimed to leverage LiDAR to measure DBH and tree height, estimate tree heritability, and evaluate the accuracy of timber volume selection based on these traits, using 60-year-old larch as the study material. Unmanned aerial vehicle laser scanning (ULS) and backpack laser scanning (BLS) were compared against hand-measured values. The accuracy of DBH estimations using BLS resulted in a root mean square error (RMSE) of 2.7 cm and a coefficient of determination of 0.67. Conversely, the accuracy achieved with ULS was 4.0 cm in RMSE and a 0.24 coefficient of determination. The heritability of DBH was higher with BLS than with ULS and even exceeded that of hand measurements. Comparisons of timber volume selection accuracy based on the measured traits demonstrated comparable performance between BLS and ULS. These findings underscore the po Full article
20 pages, 5108 KiB  
Review
Physio-Biochemical Mechanisms of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Enhancing Plant Resistance to Abiotic Stress
by Dandi Sun, Xiaoqian Shang, Hanwen Cao, Soon-Jae Lee, Li Wang, Yantai Gan and Shoujiang Feng
Agriculture 2024, 14(12), 2361; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14122361 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Agricultural innovations in the past decades have addressed the mounting challenges of food, feed, and biofuel security. However, the overreliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture has exacerbated biodiversity loss, environmental degradation, and soil health deterioration. Leveraging beneficial soil microorganisms, particularly arbuscular [...] Read more.
Agricultural innovations in the past decades have addressed the mounting challenges of food, feed, and biofuel security. However, the overreliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture has exacerbated biodiversity loss, environmental degradation, and soil health deterioration. Leveraging beneficial soil microorganisms, particularly arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, offers an emerging solution to reduce dependence on synthetic agrochemicals in crop production. Understanding the mechanisms can help maximize AM fungi’s benefits in response to abiotic stresses. In this review, we explore the main mechanisms of AM fungi in promoting soil nutrient mobilization and uptake, increasing water absorption, stimulating antioxidative enzyme activities, altering morphophysiological structure, and performing hormonal crosstalk when mycorrhizal plants face an abiotic stressor. Also, we highlight the necessity of innovating practical ways to cope with variations in AM fungal species, diversity in host species, soil, and environmental conditions, as well as difficulties in mass multiplication for commercialization. Understanding the mechanisms and limitations may help explore the biofertilizer potential of AM fungal symbiosis, benefiting crop production while addressing the environment and soil health issues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mycorrhizal Symbiosis in Agricultural Production)
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Figure 1
<p>Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonize root cortical cells through germinating spores, forming hyphal branches, and developing an extraradical mycelium that forms an extensive network in the soil. The initial colonization involves hyphal contact on root surfaces through the outer cortex, the formation of a dense hyphal sheath surrounding the colonized surface (ectomycorrhizas), or the penetration of fungal hyphae into host tissues (endomycorrhizas), establishing the mutual-benefit symbiosis.</p>
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<p>Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonize roots to form a mutually beneficial symbiosis that induces upward nutrient flow and downward carbon flow in the plant–soil–rhizosphere continuum. AM fungi require C sources from host plants for spore propagation and extraradical hyphal development. In contrast, AM fungi produce a network of extraradical mycelium, spreading from host roots into the surrounding soil and establishing belowground interconnections to supply plant-required nutrients like P, N, Zn, Cu, and Mg. These functioning features occur in the hyphosphere with hyphal exudates and other enzymes involved in the nutrient flow process. While the plant–AM fungi symbiotic relationship is a nutrient trade-off, the mutually beneficial association can enhance plant ability to acquire essential minerals, which is crucial for enhancing soil health through the contribution of hyphosphere microbiomes to nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and soil aggregation.</p>
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<p>Physiological mechanisms of osmotic adjustment at the (a) cellular, (b) whole plant, and (c) system scale in a typical dryland agroecosystem. It is typical that a water–carbon linear correlation occurs in plant scale, whereas at the ecosystem scale water–carbon correlation becomes nonlinear. Abbreviations: intercellular CO<sub>2</sub> concentration (ci), ambient stomatal CO<sub>2</sub> concentration (ca), conductance (gs), seasonal air temperature (Ta), relative humidity (Rh), vapor pressure deficit (VPD), soil water content (SWC), leaf area index (LAI), water use efficiency (WUE), and seasonal total evapotranspiration (ET), transpiration (T), soil evaporation (E), net ecosystem exchange (NEE), and gross primary productivity (GPP).</p>
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<p>Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi enhance plant resistance to abiotic stress, which is through increasing photosynthesis, improving root-to-stem ratio, increasing nutrient uptake, increasing root surface areas, promoting metabolisms, balancing hormones, stimulating enzyme activities, and interacting with other microbiomes in the hyphosphere.</p>
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23 pages, 5047 KiB  
Article
Framework for Monitoring the Spatiotemporal Distribution and Clustering of the Digital Society Index of Indonesia
by I Gede Nyoman Mindra Jaya, Said Mirza Pahlevi, Argasi Susenna, Lidya Agustina, Dita Kusumasari, Yan Andriariza Ambhita Sukma, Dewi Hernikawati, Anggi Afifah Rahmi, Anindya Apriliyanti Pravitasari and Farah Kristiani
Sustainability 2024, 16(24), 11258; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162411258 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Digital disparities remain a significant challenge in Indonesia, particularly across its diverse regions, with uneven access to digital infrastructure, skills, and economic opportunities. This study aims to map these digital disparities at the district level, analyze the spatial distribution and clustering of digital [...] Read more.
Digital disparities remain a significant challenge in Indonesia, particularly across its diverse regions, with uneven access to digital infrastructure, skills, and economic opportunities. This study aims to map these digital disparities at the district level, analyze the spatial distribution and clustering of digital transformation using the Digital Society Index of Indonesia (IMDI), and investigate the key drivers of digital inequality across four core pillars: Infrastructure and Ecosystem, Digital Skills, Empowerment, and Jobs. To measure the IMDI, primary data were collected from the industrial sector and the general population over three years (2022–2024), combined with secondary data on internet usage and service standards. A multistage random sampling approach ensured representativeness, considering demographic variations and industrial segments. The analysis employed spatiotemporal methods to capture temporal trends and spatial clustering. The results revealed a significant IMDI increase from 37.80 in 2022 to 43.18 in 2023, followed by stability at 43.34 in 2024. The hotspots of digital transformation remain concentrated on Java Island, while low spots persist in eastern Indonesia. This study provides critical insights into Indonesia’s digital readiness, identifying priority areas for targeted interventions to bridge the digital divide and foster equitable digital development. Full article
17 pages, 609 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Plyometric Training on the Performance of Three Types of Jumps and Jump Shots in College-Level Male Basketball Athletes
by Wei-Yang Huang, Cheng-En Wu and Hsuan Huang
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(24), 12015; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142412015 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that lower-limb plyometric training can effectively enhance muscle strength and explosiveness, which are particularly important for improving jumping ability. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of plyometric training on vertical, lateral, and horizontal jumping abilities, [...] Read more.
Recent studies have shown that lower-limb plyometric training can effectively enhance muscle strength and explosiveness, which are particularly important for improving jumping ability. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of plyometric training on vertical, lateral, and horizontal jumping abilities, and their subsequent impact on basketball shooting performance and sports injury prevention. A quasi-experimental design was used, recruiting 30 male college-level basketball players from Taiwan, who were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 15) and a control group (n = 15). Both groups participated in 2 h of basketball training daily, while the experimental group additionally engaged in plyometric training twice a week. The results revealed significant improvements in the experimental group in several key areas, including rate of force development (RFD), ground reaction force (GRF), jump height, jump distance, and both horizontal and vertical forces, across vertical, lateral, and horizontal jumps. Specifically, vertical jumps required the highest ground reaction force, followed by lateral jumps, with horizontal (step-back) jumps requiring the least. The optimal angles for the resultant force during take-off were found to be between 66.1° and 66.8° for lateral jumps, and between 56.2° and 57.2° for step-back jumps, while vertical jumps did not show significant variation in take-off angle. In terms of basketball performance, the experimental group demonstrated significantly better post-test results in all three types of jump shots, with the highest accuracy observed in the vertical jump shot, followed by the lateral jump shot, and the lowest in the step-back jump shot. Furthermore, the experimental group experienced a substantial reduction in sports injury rates, with the injury rate decreasing to 6%. These findings indicate that plyometric training not only enhances jumping performance, but also contributes to injury prevention by strengthening lower-limb muscles. This study provides a theoretical basis for coaches to develop comprehensive training programs that improve athletic performance and reduce injury risk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Advances in Performance Analysis and Technologies for Sports)
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Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Average numbers of goals scored in the pre- and post-tests for the three types of jump shots. EG is the experimental group, and CG is the control group. * There is a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test in the experimental group.</p>
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19 pages, 1670 KiB  
Article
Subclinical Mastitis in Lacaune Sheep: Etiologic Agents, the Effect on Milk Characteristics, and an Evaluation of Infrared Thermography and the YOLO Algorithm as a Preprocessing Tool for Advanced Analysis
by Marios Lysitsas, Georgios Botsoglou, Dimitris Dimitriadis, Sofia Termatzidou, Panagiota Kazana, Grigorios Tsoumakas, Constantina N. Tsokana, Eleni Malissiova, Vassiliki Spyrou, Charalambos Billinis and George Valiakos
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(12), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11120676 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the incidence of subclinical mastitis (SCM), the implicated pathogens, and their impact on milk quality in dairy sheep in Greece. Furthermore, we preliminarily evaluated infrared thermography and the application of AI tools for the early, non-invasive diagnosis of [...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate the incidence of subclinical mastitis (SCM), the implicated pathogens, and their impact on milk quality in dairy sheep in Greece. Furthermore, we preliminarily evaluated infrared thermography and the application of AI tools for the early, non-invasive diagnosis of relevant cases. In total, 660 milk samples and over 2000 infrared thermography images were obtained from 330 phenotypically healthy ewes. Microbiological investigations, a somatic cell count (SCC), and milk chemical analyses were performed. Infrared images were analyzed using the FLIR Research Studio software (version 3.0.1). The You Only Look Once version 8 (YOLOv8) algorithm was employed for the automatic detection of the udder’s region of interest. A total of 157 mammary glands with SCM were identified in 122/330 ewes (37.0%). The most prevalent pathogen was staphylococci (136/160, 86.6%). Considerable resistance was detected to tetracycline (29.7%), ampicillin (28.6%), and sulfamethoxazole–trimethoprim (23.6%). SCM correlated with high total mesophilic count (TMC) values and decreased milk fat, lactose, and protein content. A statistically significant variation (p < 0.001) was identified in the unilateral SCM cases by evaluating the mean temperatures of the udder region between the teats in the thermal images. Finally, the YOLOv8 algorithm was employed for the automatic detection of the udder’s region of interest (ROI), achieving 84% accuracy in defining the ROI in this preliminary evaluation. This demonstrates the potential of infrared thermography combined with AI tools for the diagnosis of ovine SCM. Nonetheless, more extensive sampling is essential to optimize this diagnostic approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology)
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<p>Overview of the procedures carried out in this study.</p>
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<p>Evaluation of thermal images: (<b>a</b>) manual drawing of L lines for each mammary gland (grayscale); (<b>b</b>) lines on a thermal image of a gland using a rainbow high-contrast filter.</p>
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<p>Teat detection in thermal images, including line drawings. Analysis of four thermal image instances (confidence levels produced by the model for detecting the teats are displayed).</p>
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14 pages, 1856 KiB  
Review
Application of Original Prostate Cancer Progression Model Interacting with Fibroblasts in Preclinical Research
by Kenichiro Ishii, Kazuhiro Iguchi, Chise Matsuda, Yoshifumi Hirokawa, Yoshiki Sugimura and Masatoshi Watanabe
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(24), 7837; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13247837 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a heterogeneous disease that exhibits androgen sensitivity and responsiveness to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). However, ADT induces only temporary remission, and the majority of PCa cases eventually progress to castration-resistant PCa (CRPC). During the development and progression of CRPC, [...] Read more.
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a heterogeneous disease that exhibits androgen sensitivity and responsiveness to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). However, ADT induces only temporary remission, and the majority of PCa cases eventually progress to castration-resistant PCa (CRPC). During the development and progression of CRPC, androgen sensitivity and androgen receptor (AR) dependency in PCa cells are often deceased or lost due to ADT or spontaneously arising AR variants even before starting ADT. To prevent CRPC, a clinical PCa model derived from an AR-positive cancer cell line with weak or no androgen sensitivity is required. The human prostate LNCaP cell line is a good model for PCa because of its androgen sensitivity and AR dependency in terms of cell growth and gene expression. Notably, LNCaP cells are heterogeneous cells comprising different clones with natural variations in androgen sensitivity and AR dependency resulting from spontaneously occurring changes. In our group, to obtain androgen-insensitive or weakly sensitive clones spontaneously derived from parental LNCaP cells, we performed a limiting dilution of parental LNCaP cells and obtained several sublines with varying levels of androgen sensitivity and AR dependency. In addition, we established an androgen-insensitive subline from parental LNCaP cells by continuous passage under hormone-depleted conditions. This article provides a unique perspective on our original PCa progression model interacting with fibroblasts and its application in preclinical research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)
21 pages, 6323 KiB  
Article
An Analysis of the Spatial Variations in the Relationship Between Built Environment and Severe Crashes
by Onur Alisan and Eren Erman Ozguven
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2024, 13(12), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi13120465 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Traffic crashes significantly contribute to global fatalities, particularly in urban areas, highlighting the need to evaluate the relationship between urban environments and traffic safety. This study extends former spatial modeling frameworks by drawing paths between global models, including spatial lag (SLM), and spatial [...] Read more.
Traffic crashes significantly contribute to global fatalities, particularly in urban areas, highlighting the need to evaluate the relationship between urban environments and traffic safety. This study extends former spatial modeling frameworks by drawing paths between global models, including spatial lag (SLM), and spatial error (SEM), and local models, including geographically weighted regression (GWR), multi-scale geographically weighted regression (MGWR), and multi-scale geographically weighted regression with spatially lagged dependent variable (MGWRL). Utilizing the proposed framework, this study analyzes severe traffic crashes in relation to urban built environments using various spatial regression models within Leon County, Florida. According to the results, SLM outperforms OLS, SEM, and GWR models. Local models with lagged dependent variables outperform both the global and generic versions of the local models in all performance measures, whereas MGWR and MGWRL outperform GWR and GWRL. Local models performed better than global models, showing spatial non-stationarity; so, the relationship between the dependent and independent variables varies over space. The better performance of models with lagged dependent variables signifies that the spatial distribution of severe crashes is correlated. Finally, the better performance of multi-scale local models than classical local models indicates varying influences of independent variables with different bandwidths. According to the MGWRL model, census block groups close to the urban area with higher population, higher education level, and lower car ownership rates have lower crash rates. On the contrary, motor vehicle percentage for commuting is found to have a negative association with severe crash rate, which suggests the locality of the mentioned associations. Full article
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<p>Study area and census block groups.</p>
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<p>Spatial modeling framework.</p>
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<p>Spatial indicators of crashes.</p>
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<p>Correlation matrix of independent variables.</p>
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<p>Spatial variation in coefficients.</p>
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<p>Spatial variation in coefficients.</p>
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15 pages, 2203 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Analysis of Physicochemical Properties and Sensory Attributes of Original-Cut Potato Chips in the Chinese Market
by Guangcan Cui, Ting Wang, Zeyu Cai, Jianglin Liu, Yutong Hu, Qingguo Wang and Tengfei Liu
Foods 2024, 13(24), 4158; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13244158 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the Chinese market’s physicochemical properties and sensory attributes of 14 original-cut potato chip brands. Color characteristics, compositional analysis, sugar content, acrylamide levels, and textural properties were examined alongside sensory evaluations. Significant variations were observed across all the parameters. Color analysis [...] Read more.
This study investigates the Chinese market’s physicochemical properties and sensory attributes of 14 original-cut potato chip brands. Color characteristics, compositional analysis, sugar content, acrylamide levels, and textural properties were examined alongside sensory evaluations. Significant variations were observed across all the parameters. Color analysis revealed diverse L*, a*, and b* values, with total color difference (ΔE) strongly correlating with sensory scores (r = 0.73, p < 0.01). A compositional analysis showed substantial differences in protein (5.19–8.51%), fat (27.91–40.16%), and moisture (0.67–3.78%) contents. Acrylamide levels varied widely (166.7–1101.78 mg/kg), positively correlating with the sucrose content (r = 0.57, p < 0.05). A textural analysis demonstrated significant variations in hardness (379.38–1103.6 gf) and fracturability (167.5–857.77 gf), with fracturability negatively correlating with sensory scores (r = −0.75, p < 0.01). A sensory evaluation revealed distinct brand preferences, with the total scores ranging from 65 to 85. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between the physicochemical properties and consumer perception of potato chips in the Chinese market and offers potential directions for product optimization and quality control in the snack food industry, inspiring hope and innovation among industry professionals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Physics and (Bio)Chemistry)
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<p>Visual representation of 14 original-cut potato chip brands (<b>A</b>–<b>N</b>) in the Chinese market. <b>Top panel</b>: Individual potato chip samples. <b>Bottom panel</b>: Crushed samples for color measurement.</p>
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<p>Sensory evaluation scores for 14 original-cut potato chip brands (A–N) available in the Chinese market. The scores are presented for appearance, color, odor, texture, taste, and total sensory evaluation on a 25-point scale (1 = poor, 25 = excellent). All the values are indicated as mean ± SD (<span class="html-italic">n</span> = 30). Different letters above bars indicate significant differences (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) between the brands for each attribute.</p>
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<p>Correlation matrix heatmap of sensory scores and physicochemical properties of 14 original-cut potato chip brands in the Chinese market. The color intensity and size of the circles represent the strength of the correlation. Positive correlations are displayed in red, and negative correlations in blue. The numbers in each cell represent the correlation coefficient and its corresponding <span class="html-italic">p</span>-value in parentheses. Asterisks indicate statistical significance: * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05; ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01.</p>
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12 pages, 2784 KiB  
Article
Surface Enhancement of Titanium Ti-3Al-2.5V Through Laser Remelting Process—A Material Analysis
by Esmaeil Ghadiri Zahrani, Babak Soltani and Bahman Azarhoushang
Micromachines 2024, 15(12), 1526; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15121526 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Abstract: This study evaluates the effects of laser parameters on the surface remelting of the Ti-3Al-2.5V alloy. A ms-laser equipped with a coaxial gas-pressure head integrated into a Swiss-type turning machine is used for the laser remelting process of cylindrical parts. The [...] Read more.
Abstract: This study evaluates the effects of laser parameters on the surface remelting of the Ti-3Al-2.5V alloy. A ms-laser equipped with a coaxial gas-pressure head integrated into a Swiss-type turning machine is used for the laser remelting process of cylindrical parts. The influence of different pulse frequencies, as well as varying intensities, is investigated. The results reveal that surface micro-cracks can be eliminated through laser remelting. Increasing the input laser intensity also increases the size of the melting pool. A similar effect is observed with higher pulse frequencies. The metallurgical microstructure and the size of the heat-affected zone of the remelted surface at different input laser energy levels are also examined. The results indicate that input laser energy influences phase transformation in the metallurgical microstructure, which correspondingly results in variations in micro-hardness within the heat-affected zone. The variations in laser fluence lead to a surface hardness improvement of approximately 15%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Micro/Nano Fabrication, Second Edition)
13 pages, 2036 KiB  
Article
Soil Organic Carbon Storage and Stratification in Land Use Types in the Source Area of the Tarim River Basin
by Qin Zhang, Chunfang Yue, Pujia Yu, Hailiang Xu, Jie Wu and Fangyu Sheng
Sustainability 2024, 16(24), 11255; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162411255 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
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Abstract
Accurate analysis of soil organic carbon (SOC) under different land uses in ecologically fragile arid zones is essential for effective regulatory measures and improvement of ecological quality. This study selected the ecologically fragile Tarim River source area as an example, aiming to quantitatively [...] Read more.
Accurate analysis of soil organic carbon (SOC) under different land uses in ecologically fragile arid zones is essential for effective regulatory measures and improvement of ecological quality. This study selected the ecologically fragile Tarim River source area as an example, aiming to quantitatively assess the SOC content, storage, carbon sequestration potential, and stratification ratio (SR) of different ecological land use types. Soil depths from 0–50 cm were determined and analyzed using the K2Cr2O7-H2SO4 oxidation method, the equivalent soil mass method and mathematical statistics. Forest, shrubland, and grassland ecological land types were included. The results show the following: (1) Both SOC content and storage showed a decrease with increasing soil depth. The total SOC content and storage sequence from high to low were natural forest, grassland, and shrubland. (2) There are variations in the SOC sequestration potential among the different ecological land types and shrubland (40.64 Mg C ha−1) > grassland (37.69 Mg C ha−1). (3) The SRs of the SOC in the forest were significantly greater than those in the shrubland and grassland. The different ecological land types had significant impacts on SR2, SR3, and SR4. SR2 could serve as a reliable index for assessing the impact of management practices on soil quality. The study area has a high potential for soil carbon sequestration in the future under these ecological conservation and management measures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land Use/Cover Change and Its Environmental Effects: Second Edition)
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<p>Map of the study area and the sampling sites.</p>
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<p>Land use classification map of the study area for (<b>a</b>) 2015, (<b>b</b>) 2020.</p>
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<p>Mean values (±standard error) of SOC content at five depths in soils of different ecological land types. The bars represent standard errors. Values with the same capital letters (ecological land type) and lowercase letters (soil depths) indicate no significant difference at <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Mean values of total SOCs at five depths in the different ecological land use types. The bars represent standard errors. Values with the different capital letters (ecological land type) indicate significant difference at <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05. (<b>b</b>) The carbon sequestration potential of SOC under the different ecological land use types.</p>
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<p>The SR of the SOC content under the different ecological land types. The bars represent standard errors. Values with the different capital letters (ecological land type) indicate significant difference at <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05. F and <span class="html-italic">p</span> values are the ANOVA results at the same soil depth.</p>
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