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Search Results (536)

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Keywords = relative carrying capacity

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22 pages, 4603 KiB  
Article
Root Transcriptome Analysis Identifies Salt-Tolerance Genes in Sweet Corn Chromosome Segment Substitution Lines (CSSLs)
by Zili Zhang, Xuxuan Duan, Pengfei Liu, Qingchun Chen, Wei Sun, Xiaorong Wan, Yixiong Zheng, Jianting Lin, Feng Jiang and Faqiang Feng
Plants 2025, 14(11), 1687; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14111687 - 31 May 2025
Viewed by 38
Abstract
Salt stress severely constrains global crop productivity. However, most sweet corn cultivars exhibit weak tolerance to salt stress. In this study, two sweet corn CSSLs, salt-tolerant line D55 and salt-sensitive line D96, were selected as materials. We conducted comparative phenotyping and physiological profiling [...] Read more.
Salt stress severely constrains global crop productivity. However, most sweet corn cultivars exhibit weak tolerance to salt stress. In this study, two sweet corn CSSLs, salt-tolerant line D55 and salt-sensitive line D96, were selected as materials. We conducted comparative phenotyping and physiological profiling of seedlings under salinity treatment, and transcriptome analysis was carried out by sampling root tissues at 0 h, 4 h, 12 h, and 72 h post-treatment. The results indicated that D55 exhibited enhanced seedling height, root length, fresh weight, relative chlorophyll content, and antioxidant enzyme activities, while showing reduced malondialdehyde accumulation in comparison to D96. Pairwise comparisons across time points (0 h, 4 h, 12 h, 72 h) identified 6317 and 6828 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in D55 and D96. A total of 49 shared DEGs across four time points were identified in D55 and D96, which were enriched in 12 significant Gene Ontology (GO) terms. Only eight DEGs were shared between genotypes across all comparisons. Transcriptomic analysis revealed 1281, 1946, and 1717 DEGs in genotypes D55 and D96 at 4 h, 12 h, and 72 h post-salt treatment, respectively. Genes associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis, phenylpropanoid metabolism, cutin, suberin and wax biosynthesis, and benzoxazinoid synthesis exhibit enhanced sensitivity in the salt-tolerant genotype D55. This leads to an enhanced ROS scavenging capacity and the establishment of a multi-layered defense mechanism. Additionally, brassinosteroid (BR), gibberellin (GA), and abscisic acid (ABA) and auxin-related genes exhibited different responses to salt stress in sweet corn. A hypothetical model, which established a multi-layered salt adaptation strategy, by integrating ROS detoxification, osmotic balance, and phytohormone signaling, was put forward. By integrating transcriptome and differential chromosomal fragment data, our findings identify 14 candidate genes for salt tolerance, providing potential ideal target genes in breeding to improve salt tolerance in sweet corn. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetics, Genomics and Biotechnology)
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14 pages, 2105 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Simulations of Phase-Change Emulsions in Cooling Systems
by Yuting Wang, Jingjing Shao, Jo Darkwa and Georgios Kokogiannakis
Buildings 2025, 15(11), 1873; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15111873 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 121
Abstract
The application of phase change material emulsions (PCMEs) in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is considered to be a potential way of saving energy due to their relatively higher energy storage capacity compared with water. They are now widely used as [...] Read more.
The application of phase change material emulsions (PCMEs) in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is considered to be a potential way of saving energy due to their relatively higher energy storage capacity compared with water. They are now widely used as a heat transfer media, so they are able to reduce the flow rate whilst delivering the same amount of cooling energy. In order to evaluate the energy-saving potential of the integrated PCME air conditioning system, whole-building energy simulation was carried out with the building simulation code TRNSYS. Before simulating the whole system, a mathematical model for a PCME-integrated fan coil unit was first developed and validated. A phase change material emulsion called PCE-10 was used, and the TRNSYS simulation showed that the required volumetric flow rate of phase change material emulsions was 50% less than that of water when providing the same cooling effect, which could contribute to a 7% reduction in total energy consumption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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21 pages, 4062 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Assessment and Obstacle Factor Recognition of Waterlogging Disaster Resilience in the Historic Urban Area
by Fangjie Cao, Qianxin Wang, Yun Qiu and Xinzhuo Wang
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(6), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14060208 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 167
Abstract
As climate change intensifies, cities are experiencing more severe rainfall and frequent waterlogging. When rainfall exceeds the carrying capacity of urban drainage networks, it poses a significant risk to urban facilities and public safety, seriously affecting sustainable urban development. Compared with general urban [...] Read more.
As climate change intensifies, cities are experiencing more severe rainfall and frequent waterlogging. When rainfall exceeds the carrying capacity of urban drainage networks, it poses a significant risk to urban facilities and public safety, seriously affecting sustainable urban development. Compared with general urban built-up areas, they demonstrate greater vulnerability to rainfall-induced waterlogging due to their obsolete infrastructure and high heritage value, making it imperative to comprehensively enhance their waterlogging resilience. In this study, Qingdao’s historic urban area is selected as a sample case to analyze the interaction between rainfall intensity, the built environment, and population and business characteristics and the mechanism of waterlogging disaster in the historic urban area by combining with the concept of resilience; then construct a resilience assessment system for waterlogging in the historic urban area in terms of dangerousness, vulnerability, and adaptability; and carry out a measurement study. Specifically, the CA model is used as the basic model for simulating the possibility of waterlogging, and the waterlogging resilience index is quantified by combining the traditional research data and the emerging open-source geographic data. Furthermore, the waterlogging resilience and obstacle factors of the 293 evaluation units were quantitatively evaluated by varying the rainfall characteristics. The study shows that the low flooding resilience in the historic city is found in the densely built-up areas within the historic districts, which are difficult to penetrate, because of the high vulnerability of the buildings themselves, their adaptive capacity to meet the high intensity of tourism and commercial activities, and the relatively weak resilience of the built environment to disasters. Based on the measurement results, targeted spatial optimization strategies and planning adjustments are proposed. Full article
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13 pages, 624 KiB  
Systematic Review
Effects of Physical Exercise on the Physical and Mental Health of Family Caregivers: A Systematic Review
by Ana Bravo-Vazquez, Ernesto Anarte-Lazo, Juan Jose Gonzalez-Gerez, Cleofas Rodriguez-Blanco and Carlos Bernal-Utrera
Healthcare 2025, 13(10), 1196; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13101196 - 20 May 2025
Viewed by 259
Abstract
The number of family caregivers of dependent older adults is increasing. The adverse effects of the work provided by these caregivers can have a negative impact on their own physical and mental health, so it is necessary to develop strategies that support and [...] Read more.
The number of family caregivers of dependent older adults is increasing. The adverse effects of the work provided by these caregivers can have a negative impact on their own physical and mental health, so it is necessary to develop strategies that support and improve the quality of life and functional capacity of this group. Background/Objectives: The aim of this systematic review is to analyze physical exercise interventions for family caregivers and the effects on their physical and mental health, quality of life and functioning. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in the scientific databases PubMed, Embase, Scopus and CINAHL. Data extraction was carried out from the selected articles, obtaining information about the characteristics of the study subjects, type and characteristics of the intervention and results. Results: A total of 17 studies were selected for the review. All studies were based on physical exercise interventions and reported significant improvements in caregivers’ physical and mental health, as well as an increase in their quality of life and functioning. Most of the study subjects were older adult women relatives. No adverse effects were found to the interventions. Conclusions: Physical exercise seems to be effective in improving the physical and mental health of family caregivers, increasing their quality of life and functional capacity. More future research is needed to make interventions more accessible to family caregivers. Full article
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19 pages, 4310 KiB  
Article
The Calculation and Optimization Methodology of Repairable Elements of a UAV Structure
by Wojciech Skarka, Sergiy Kurennov, Kostiantyn Barakhov, Fedir Gagauz, Olesia Maksymovych and Oleksii Vambol
Aerospace 2025, 12(5), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace12050441 - 16 May 2025
Viewed by 132
Abstract
A novel approach to the calculation and optimization methodology of repairable elements of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) structures using pre-cured composite patches is proposed. These patches are glued to the damaged structure with adhesives filled with short fibers or particulate fillers. Compared with [...] Read more.
A novel approach to the calculation and optimization methodology of repairable elements of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) structures using pre-cured composite patches is proposed. These patches are glued to the damaged structure with adhesives filled with short fibers or particulate fillers. Compared with conventional repair procedures (in which composite prepregs or wet lay-up are used), the suggested method allows damaged UAV structures to be repaired relatively quickly in field conditions without the need for a vacuum or special equipment. In most scientific studies on this problem, significant attention is devoted to the investigation of rectangular patches used for reinforcing plates that have defects such as cracks and damage. This study focuses on the potential application of circular patches for reinforcing plates with defects or damage and includes further parametric optimization of the geometric parameters of the patch. A fundamental approach to the topological and structural optimization of adhesive bonding, along with an experimental study of adhesive properties, has been combined into a single model. This model includes the optimization of the shape and structure of patches for bonded repair, allowing for changes in adhesive thickness to restore the load-carrying capacity of the structure. The simulation and analysis of the results of the renovation of damaged structures for double-sided and single-sided repaired elements of the UAV structure were performed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aeronautics)
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23 pages, 10496 KiB  
Article
Synthesis MFI Zeolites Using Alternative Silica Source for CO2 Capture
by Clenildo de Longe, Aryandson da Silva, Anne Beatriz Figueira Câmara, Francisco Gustavo Hayala Silveira Pinto, Lindiane Bieseki, Luciene Santos de Carvalho and Sibele Berenice Castellã Pergher
Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020056 - 16 May 2025
Viewed by 227
Abstract
In recent years, climate change has attracted the attention of the scientific community. These changes are attributed to human action, which is responsible for the emission of polluting gases, mainly through the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes that are responsible [...] Read more.
In recent years, climate change has attracted the attention of the scientific community. These changes are attributed to human action, which is responsible for the emission of polluting gases, mainly through the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes that are responsible for the greenhouse effect. Post-combustion CO2 capture using solid adsorbents is a technology that is currently gaining prominence as an alternative and viable form of capture to other industrial processes used. Zeolites are adsorbents capable of capturing CO2 selectively due to their properties such as textural properties, high surface area, and active sites. In this context, this work developed materials with a zeolite structure with an alternative low-cost silica source from beach sand, called MPI silica, to make the process eco-friendly. Crystallization time studies were carried out for materials containing MFI-type zeolites with MPI silica with a time of 15 h (ZM 15 h) and 3 days (SM 3 d), with relative crystallinities of 92.90% and 111.90%, respectively. The synthesized materials were characterized by several techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), the textural analysis of N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms, absorption spectroscopy in the infrared region with Fourier transform (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermal analysis. The evaluation of the experimental adsorption isotherms showed that the best results were for the zeolites synthesized in the basic medium, namely ZMP 3 d, ZM 10.5 h, and ZM 15 h, with capacities of 3.72, 3.10, and 3.22 mmol/g of CO2, respectively, and in the hydrofluoric medium, namely SP 9 d, SM 3 d, and SM 6 d, with capacities of 3.94, 3.78, and 3.60 mmol/g of CO2, respectively. The evaluation of the mathematical models indicated that the zeolites in the basic medium best fitted the Freündlich model, namely ZMP 3 d, ZM 10.5 h, and ZM 15 h, with capacities of 2.56, 1.68, and 1.87 mmol/g of CO2, respectively. The zeolites in the hydrofluoric medium are adjusted to the Langmuir model (SP 9 d and SM 3 d) and Temkin model (SM 6 d), with capacities of 3.79, 2.23, and 2.11 mmol/g of CO2, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramic Materials for Industrial Decarbonization)
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23 pages, 7958 KiB  
Article
Modeling and Dynamic Characteristic Analysis of a Rigid–Flexible Coupling Multi-Stage Gear Transmission System for High-Power-Density Diesel Engines
by Chenkun Yi, Huihua Feng, Ziqing Zhu, Peirong Ren, Zhongwei Zhang and Qidi Zhou
Machines 2025, 13(5), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13050416 - 15 May 2025
Viewed by 213
Abstract
To investigate the mechanisms of unexpected failures in a multi-stage gear transmission system under a relatively low load, a rigid–flexible coupled multi-body dynamics model with 10 spur gears and 12 helical gears is established. The dynamic condensation theory is applied to improve computational [...] Read more.
To investigate the mechanisms of unexpected failures in a multi-stage gear transmission system under a relatively low load, a rigid–flexible coupled multi-body dynamics model with 10 spur gears and 12 helical gears is established. The dynamic condensation theory is applied to improve computational efficiency. The construction of this model incorporates critical nonlinear factors, ensuring high precision and reliability. Based on the proposed model, four critical dynamic parameters, including acceleration, mesh stiffness, dynamic transmission error, and vibration displacement, are analyzed. This research systematically reveals the nonlinear dynamic mechanism under the multi-gear coupling effect. The spectrum of the gears exhibits prominent low-frequency peaks at 320 Hz and 750 Hz. Notably, alternate load-dominated gears show a shift in prominent low-frequency peaks. The phenomenon of marked oscillations in mesh stiffness suggests a potential risk of localized weakening in the system’s load-carrying capacity. Critically, alternating torques induce periodic double-tooth contact regions in the gear at specific time points (0.115 s and 0.137 s), which are identified as critical factors leading to gear transmission system failures. The variation characteristics of the dynamic transmission error (DTE) demonstrate that the DTE is strongly correlated with the meshing state. The analysis of vibration displacement further indicates that the alternating external loads are the dominant excitation source of vibrations, noise, and failures in the gear transmission system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Machine Design and Theory)
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15 pages, 6634 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Assessment of Coalbed Methane Content Through Integrated Geophysical and Geological Analysis: Case Study from YJP Block
by Kaixin Gao, Suoliang Chang, Sheng Zhang, Bo Liu and Jing Liu
Processes 2025, 13(5), 1401; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13051401 - 4 May 2025
Viewed by 327
Abstract
The study block is located on the eastern edge of the Ordos Basin and is one of the typical medium coalbed methane blocks in China that have previously been subjected to exploration and development work. The rich CBM resource base and good exploration [...] Read more.
The study block is located on the eastern edge of the Ordos Basin and is one of the typical medium coalbed methane blocks in China that have previously been subjected to exploration and development work. The rich CBM resource base and good exploration and development situation in this block mean there is an urgent need to accelerate development efforts, but compared with the current situation for tight sandstone gas where development is in full swing in the area, the production capacity construction of CBM wells in the area shows a phenomenon of lagging to a certain degree. In this study, taking the 4 + 5 coal seam of the YJP block in the Ordos Basin as the research object, we carried out technical research on an integrated program concerning CBM geology and engineering and put forward a comprehensive seismic geology analysis method for the prediction of the CBM content. The study quantitatively assessed the tectonic conditions, depositional environment, and coal seam thickness as potential controlling factors using gray relationship analysis, trend surface analysis, and seismic geological data integration. The results show that tectonic conditions, especially the burial depth, residual deformation, and fault development, are the main controlling factors affecting the coalbed methane content, showing a strong correlation (gray relational value greater than 0.75). The effects of the depositional environment (sand–shale ratio) and coal bed thickness were negligible. A weighted fusion model incorporating seismic attributes and geological parameters was developed to predict the gas content distribution, achieving relative prediction errors of below 15% in validation wells, significantly outperforming traditional interpolation methods. The integrated approach demonstrated enhanced spatial resolution and accuracy in delineating the lateral CBM distribution, particularly in structurally complex zones. However, limitations persist due to the seismic data resolution and logging data reliability. This method provides a robust framework for CBM exploration in heterogeneous coal reservoirs, emphasizing the critical role of tectonic characterization in gas content prediction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coalbed Methane Development Process)
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13 pages, 3748 KiB  
Article
Compact, Broadband, and High-Gain Four-Port MIMO Antenna for Future Millimeter Wave Applications
by Esraa Mousa Ali, Shine Let Gunamony, Mohamad A. Alawad and Turki Essa Alharbi
Micromachines 2025, 16(5), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16050558 - 3 May 2025
Viewed by 340
Abstract
A wideband antenna with a relatively compact size along with a multiple input and multiple output (MIMO) configuration for millimeter wave applications is proposed in this work. The antenna offers a low profile and simple structure. First of all, an antenna is designed [...] Read more.
A wideband antenna with a relatively compact size along with a multiple input and multiple output (MIMO) configuration for millimeter wave applications is proposed in this work. The antenna offers a low profile and simple structure. First of all, an antenna is designed using Rogers RT/duroid 6002 (Rogers Corporation, Chandler, AZ, USA) with a thickness of 0.79 mm, offering wideband ranges from 21 to 35 GHz. Subsequently, the unit element is converted into a four-port MIMO antenna to improve the capacity of the system, resulting in a high data rate, which is critical for 5G as well as for devices operating in the mm wave spectrum. The proposed work exhibits total dimensions of 24 × 24 mm2 and offers a peak gain of 8.5 dBi, with an efficiency of more than 80%. The MIMO performance parameters are also studied, and the antenna offers exceptional performance in terms of mutual coupling (Sij) without inserting a decoupling structure, envelop correlation coefficient (ECC), and diversity parameters. The proposed MIMO antenna offers a minimum isolation of −25 dBi and an ECC of less than 0.018. All the other MIMO parameter values lie below the acceptable range. The High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS) EM software (v.19) tool is used to analyze the antenna and study its performance. The simulated outcomes are verified by fabricating a prototype, where the result offers a good comparison among both results. Moreover, the contrast in terms of different performance parameters is carried out amongst recent research articles, highlighting the key contribution of the presented design. A compact size antenna with a wideband, simplified structure, and stable performance throughout the working band is achieved; thus, it is a solid contender for mm wave applications and 5G devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microwave Passive Components, 2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 4647 KiB  
Article
Rotary Panoramic and Full-Depth-of-Field Imaging System for Pipeline Inspection
by Qiang Xing, Xueqin Zhao, Kun Song, Jiawen Jiang, Xinhao Wang, Yuanyuan Huang and Haodong Wei
Sensors 2025, 25(9), 2860; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25092860 - 30 Apr 2025
Viewed by 278
Abstract
To address the adaptability and insufficient imaging quality of conventional in-pipe imaging techniques for irregular pipelines or unstructured scenes, this study proposes a novel radial rotating full-depth-of-field focusing imaging system designed to adapt to the structural complexities of irregular pipelines, which can effectively [...] Read more.
To address the adaptability and insufficient imaging quality of conventional in-pipe imaging techniques for irregular pipelines or unstructured scenes, this study proposes a novel radial rotating full-depth-of-field focusing imaging system designed to adapt to the structural complexities of irregular pipelines, which can effectively acquire tiny details with a depth of 300–960 mm inside the pipeline. Firstly, a fast full-depth-of-field imaging method driven by depth features is proposed. Secondly, a full-depth rotating imaging apparatus is developed, incorporating a zoom camera, a miniature servo rotation mechanism, and a control system, enabling 360° multi-view angles and full-depth-of-field focusing imaging. Finally, full-depth-of-field focusing imaging experiments are carried out for pipelines with depth-varying characteristics. The results demonstrate that the imaging device can acquire depth data of the pipeline interior and rapidly obtain high-definition characterization sequence images of the inner pipeline wall. In the depth-of-field segmentation with multiple view angles, the clarity of the fused image is improved by 75.3% relative to a single frame, and the SNR and PSNR reach 6.9 dB and 26.3 dB, respectively. Compared to existing pipeline closed-circuit television (CCTV) and other in-pipeline imaging techniques, the developed rotating imaging system exhibits high integration, faster imaging capabilities, and adaptive capacity. This system provides an adaptive imaging solution for detecting defects on the inner surfaces of irregular pipelines, offering significant potential for practical applications in pipeline inspection and maintenance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors in 2025)
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17 pages, 1311 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Different Irrigation Programs and Nitrogen Doses on Vegetative and Generative Development Characteristics of Cyclamen persicum Mill.
by Cenk Küçükyumuk and Zeliha Küçükyumuk
Horticulturae 2025, 11(4), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11040429 - 17 Apr 2025
Viewed by 212
Abstract
Ornamental plant growing is carried out in relatively small areas compared to other agricultural production areas, but the use of basic inputs such as water and fertilizer is intensive. Quality in cyclamen and for other similar ornamental plants is related to the amount [...] Read more.
Ornamental plant growing is carried out in relatively small areas compared to other agricultural production areas, but the use of basic inputs such as water and fertilizer is intensive. Quality in cyclamen and for other similar ornamental plants is related to the amount and quality of the flowers. Irrigation and fertilization are very effective applications of these parameters. This study was conducted in Türkiye to detect the effects of different irrigation programs and nitrogen doses on Cyclamen persicum Mill. in 2023–2024. There were 12 treatments in total. Three different irrigation programs were used. When 20% (I1), 40% (I2), and 60% (I3) of the available water holding capacity (AWHC) in the mixed soil were used, the irrigation water was applied in each irrigation until the available soil water reached the field capacity. There were four nitrogen doses for each irrigation program: N0: 0, N1: 10 kg N da−1, N2: 20 kg N da−1, and N3: 30 kg N da−1. All the parameters were affected negatively by water stress. The 20 kg da−1 nitrogen doses increased the number of flowers. Increasing water stress levels negatively affected the Pn. The zero nitrogen dose treatments (N0) provided the lowest average Pn with 7.53 μmol m−2 s−1. The I1 (frequency irrigation) irrigation program and N3 nitrogen dose can be applied together to obtain the best vegetative growth. As another option to obtain the most generative growth, the I1 (frequency irrigation) irrigation program and the N2 nitrogen dose can be applied together. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ornamental Plants under Abiotic Stresses)
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21 pages, 9086 KiB  
Article
Effect of Local Strengthening on the Overall Seismic Performance of Reinforced Concrete Frame Structures
by Gengqi Zhao, Chenbo Li, Dapeng Zhao, Qing Li and Huiying Du
Buildings 2025, 15(8), 1326; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15081326 - 17 Apr 2025
Viewed by 284
Abstract
The seismic performance of industrial and civil buildings is severely challenged by natural or man-made actions over a long period of time in service. Local strengthening is often carried out to avoid extensive strength reduction. However, current research primarily focuses on enhancing the [...] Read more.
The seismic performance of industrial and civil buildings is severely challenged by natural or man-made actions over a long period of time in service. Local strengthening is often carried out to avoid extensive strength reduction. However, current research primarily focuses on enhancing the mechanical performance of individual strengthened members, with little attention to the impact of local strengthening on the overall structure. In this study, the effect of layout symmetry on the overall seismic performance of a six-story reinforced concrete (RC) frame when locally strengthened by the strengthening bonding method is investigated by means of finite element analysis. Four strengthening schemes are considered: single-corner asymmetric, single-end asymmetric, quadrilateral symmetric, and central symmetric strengthening. The modal analysis confirms the enhanced stiffness in the strengthened structure. Asymmetric schemes yield uneven stiffness distributions, leading to pronounced vertical vibrations in higher modes. Conversely, symmetrical strengthening minimizes stiffness disparities through an optimized layout, yielding superior stiffness enhancements. The pushover analysis reveals a 53.6% increase in the lateral load-bearing capacity relative to the original configuration. Increasing the strengthening layers in symmetrical schemes further improves the lateral stiffness and performance reserve. However, when the number of strengthening layers exceeds four, the benefits become limited, and asymmetric strengthening significantly increases the inter-story drift ratio compared to its symmetric counterpart. Additionally, asymmetric strengthening leads to substantial lateral displacement discrepancies, thereby diminishing the overall structural coordination. Therefore, practical applications should adopt a holistic approach by favoring symmetrical strengthening and selecting an optimal number of strengthening layers to maximize the benefits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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38 pages, 3320 KiB  
Article
Rural Tourism: A Factor of Sustainable Development for the Traditional Rural Area of Bucovina, Romania
by Cristina Simeanu, Vasile-Cosmin Andronachi, Alexandru Usturoi, Mădălina Alexandra Davidescu, Olimpia-Smaranda Mintaș, Gabriel-Vasile Hoha and Daniel Simeanu
Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3604; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083604 - 16 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 632
Abstract
This paper explores an important issue, namely rural tourism, by analyzing the supply and demand of tourism in three rural regions (Gura Humorului, Câmpulung Moldovenesc, and Dorna) in Bucovina, Suceava County, as an alternative economic development for rural areas. The statistical data on [...] Read more.
This paper explores an important issue, namely rural tourism, by analyzing the supply and demand of tourism in three rural regions (Gura Humorului, Câmpulung Moldovenesc, and Dorna) in Bucovina, Suceava County, as an alternative economic development for rural areas. The statistical data on tourist traffic in the three regions of Suceava County were taken from the website of the National Institute of Statistics of Romania and analyzed over a period of 10 years (2014–2023). The analysis of the total number of tourist accommodation facilities recorded increases of over 200% in all three regions analyzed. Dynamic analysis of the accommodation capacity in operation, the number of tourists and overnight stays, and the average length of stay was carried out by calculating the absolute and relative indicators with fixed and chained base and average indicators. Despite the increase in the number of tourists and overnight stays, the average length of stay remains relatively low. The calculation of the net utilization rate of the accommodation capacity in operation shows an efficient use of the accommodation facilities in the three regions analyzed. The importance of the research and the originality of this research are closely related to understanding the dynamics of tourism in the rural regions analyzed for the formation of future strategies for sustainable rural development in Bucovina. Full article
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26 pages, 3530 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Assessment of Water Resource Carrying Capacity Based on Improved Matter–Element Extension Modeling
by Juqin Shen, Yong Nie, Xin Huang and Meijing Ma
Water 2025, 17(8), 1197; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17081197 - 16 Apr 2025
Viewed by 257
Abstract
The evaluation of water resource carrying capacity (WRCC) is crucial for guiding regional water management. This study established a WRCC evaluation index system and standards for the middle and lower Yangtze River, covering four subsystems: water resources, and social, economic, and ecological dimensions. [...] Read more.
The evaluation of water resource carrying capacity (WRCC) is crucial for guiding regional water management. This study established a WRCC evaluation index system and standards for the middle and lower Yangtze River, covering four subsystems: water resources, and social, economic, and ecological dimensions. The study improved the matter–element extension model by introducing triangular fuzzy numbers. The enhanced model was then used to assess the WRCC of seven provinces in the middle and lower Yangtze (2015–2023). Furthermore, GIS was used to examine the spatiotemporal variations and driving factors of WRCC. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) from 2015 to 2023, the evaluated level of WRCC in the Yangtze River’s middle and lower reaches remained stable and improved overall. Among them, the WRCC of Shanghai rose most significantly, from level III to level I. Zhejiang’s WRCC remained stable at level II, while Hubei and Hunan remained stable at level III, but with a trend toward improvement. Jiangsu’s WRCC fluctuated significantly. (2) The evaluation values of the subsystems in each region show a certain level of volatility. The water resource subsystem remained relatively stable in most regions, the social subsystem showed some variability, and both the economic and ecological subsystems developed well, showing positive effects in economic development and ecological protection in various regions. (3) The water resource subsystem had the greatest influence on WRCC. Per capita water resources, the urbanization rate, the greening coverage rate in built-up areas, and per capita GDP have the most significant impact on the WRCC in the Yangtze River’s middle and lower reaches. Full article
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15 pages, 663 KiB  
Systematic Review
Salvage of the Mastectomy Pocket in Infected Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction Using Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy with Instillation and Dwell: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Laura De Pellegrin, Isabel Zucal, Giorgio Treglia, Corrado Parodi, Riccardo Schweizer, Marco De Monti and Yves Harder
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2730; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082730 - 16 Apr 2025
Viewed by 357
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer, irrespective of gender, stands as the most prevalent cancer globally, with an annual estimate of 2.3 million new cases. Surgical intervention, including therapeutic mastectomy (excluding prophylactic procedures), is performed on approximately 28% of patients, necessitating subsequent breast reconstruction. Although implant-based [...] Read more.
Background: Breast cancer, irrespective of gender, stands as the most prevalent cancer globally, with an annual estimate of 2.3 million new cases. Surgical intervention, including therapeutic mastectomy (excluding prophylactic procedures), is performed on approximately 28% of patients, necessitating subsequent breast reconstruction. Although implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) is frequently employed due to its relative ease compared to autologous methods, it presents a notable risk for complications at mid-term such as peri-prosthetic infections. These complications can lead to implant loss and the eventual compromise of the mastectomy pocket. To address these complications, negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell (NPWTi-d) emerges as a promising rescue intervention, known for its capacity to significantly reduce bacterial load and potentially salvage compromised soft tissues. However, the evidence supporting its effectiveness in infected pockets after mastectomy is currently insufficient. This study aims at investigating the efficacy of NPWTi-d in the management of peri-prosthetic mastectomy pocket infection. Methods: A thorough literature search has been concluded through PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases up until 18th March 2025 on evaluating NPWTi-d’s ability to manage peri-prosthetic infections and preserve mastectomy pockets for subsequent reconstruction. Furthermore, a meta-analysis on the salvage rate of the mastectomy pocket was carried out, while for other outcomes, a descriptive analysis was applied. Results: Nine studies (n = 230 patients) were included, investigating whether the us NPWTi-d was successful in treating peri-prosthetic infection and preserving the mastectomy pocket for subsequent reconstruction by expander or implant. The pooled salvage rate of the implant-based BR due to the use of NPWTi-d was 86.1% (95%CI: 80.6–91.6%). Preservation of the skin envelope avoided secondary reconstruction after a defined time interval, reducing number and complexity of surgeries and related costs. Conclusions: This innovative surgical approach should be considered in selected cases of infected implants after breast reconstruction in breast cancer centers. However, the actual low level of evidence is based on case series, and it is not possible to define generally accepted recommendations for the use of NPWTi-d to save the mastectomy pocket. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Progress of Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Surgery)
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