Search Results (9,154)

Effective governance of informal commercial spaces is a common challenge faced by cities globally. To break through the superficial governance mindset of traditional spatial regulation, this study focuses on clarifying the spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors of such spaces. By integrating the theory of “The right to the city” with the “7D” principles of New Urbanism, and focusing on the Jinxiang Street area in Harbin, a representative zone combining traditional industrial and modern residential communities, this study constructed a multidimensional indicator framework including population factors, functional diversity of facilities, accessibility of the built environment, spatial suitability, and intensity of community management, extracting 17 significant variables. Through spatial autocorrelation analysis (Moran’s I), multiscale geographically weighted regression (MGWR), and geographic detector analysis, the results show that informal commercial spaces exhibit clustered yet uneven characteristics between aging and upscale communities; the MGWR model reveals significant spatial heterogeneity in influencing factors; and geographic detector analysis shows that the interaction between public service facilities’ proximity to main roads and enhanced community management has the most significant explanatory power for heterogeneity (q = 0.85). These findings inform differentiated governance strategies and provide scientific support for sustainable governance of informal commercial spaces. Full article

Short-term load forecasting (STLF) is a core technical support for ensuring the safe and economic operation of power systems and efficient trading in electricity spot markets. To address the limitations of traditional forecasting models in handling the strong nonlinear and non-stationary characteristics of load data under electricity spot market conditions—where load is influenced by the coupling of multiple factors, such as meteorological conditions, electricity price signals, and seasonal patterns—we propose a hybrid forecasting model (VMD-PSO-LSTM-RF) that integrates Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Random Forest (RF), and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to enhance the forecasting accuracy and market adaptability. First, VMD is applied to adaptively decompose the half-hourly power load data of a comprehensive user in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, from July 2024 to June 2025. The original load series was decomposed into three components, effectively avoiding the mode aliasing problem common in traditional decomposition methods and providing high-quality inputs for subsequent forecasting. Simultaneously, meteorological data and temporal features were incorporated to construct a multi-dimensional input feature set, meeting the requirements of electricity spot markets for considering multiple influencing factors. Second, the PSO algorithm was used to optimize the key hyperparameters of LSTM and RF with seasonal differentiation. With the optimization, we aimed to maximize the Coefficient of Determination (R²) on the validation set, ensuring that the model parameters precisely matched the load fluctuation characteristics of each season. Finally, based on the feature differences of various frequency components, LSTM and RF were used to construct sub-models, and the final load value was obtained through weighted integration of the prediction results of each component. The results fully demonstrate that the proposed model can accurately capture the multi-scale fluctuation characteristics of load in electricity spot market environments, with forecasting performance superior to traditional single models and basic hybrid models; furthermore, the proposed model achieves precise extraction of multi-scale load features and in-depth temporal pattern mining, providing reliable technical support for efficient electricity spot market operation, as well as empirical references for formulating scenario-specific forecasting strategies and managing trading risks in electricity markets. Full article

This study presents a systematic literature review of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies applied to the principal constituents of Carbon Fibre Metal Laminates (CFMLs): aluminium, carbon fibres, and epoxy resin. CFMLs are increasingly utilised in aerospace and automotive sectors due to their favourable strength-to-weight ratio; however, their production is resource- and energy-intensive, and their composite structure poses significant challenges for end-of-life (EoL) management. This review maps the diversity of existing LCA approaches, revealing substantial heterogeneity in system boundaries, impact categories, and geographical representativeness. A strong regional focus on Asia, and China in particular, was identified in the case of aluminium, as almost half of the aluminium sources were in this geography. For carbon fibres and epoxy resins, the regional impact was even more pronounced, with 63% and 70% of publications originating from Europe, respectively, hence showing an underrepresentation of certain life cycle geography, such as bauxite mining regions. A key finding is the limited consideration of EoL scenarios, primarily due to difficulties in separating composite layers, which highlights the technical gap and need for a chemically or thermally separable intermediate layer for carbon fibre composites. Furthermore, the study compares traditional keyword-based literature searches with AI-driven tools (Undermind, You.com, Litmaps), demonstrating that AI-assisted methods substantially enhance the efficiency and comprehensiveness of literature retrieval. Notably, although Undermind contributed only 23% of the initial search results, it accounted for 39% of the publications ultimately selected for in-depth analysis. In contrast, the standard Web of Science (WoS) search exhibited the lowest precision, with merely 10% of its results deemed relevant for detailed review. Importantly, 70% of the total WoS search results were excluded following an initial human screening, which underlines the extensive filtering required to identify pertinent studies from broad database outputs. The findings highlight the higher efficiency of AI-supported search strategies in comparison to conventional approaches, underscoring their potential to optimise literature screening processes in LCA research while also revealing shortcomings in reproducibility, which must be addressed to ensure the maintenance of scientific standards. Full article

The aim of this research was to assess the sex-related responses to AgNPs stabilized with citrate (Cit) and glutathione (GSH), relative to silver ions supplied as AgNO₃ in black poplar (Populus nigra L.), a dioecious, woody model species. The impact of the AgNPs-cit-GSH on male and female clones was evaluated by measuring key parameters of oxidative stress. The results showed that exposure to nanosilver resulted in lower Ag accumulation and reduced MDA levels in both genders compared to AgNO₃. The female clone exhibited a dose-dependent response, characterized by an increase in dry weight (DW), along with a reduction in nutrient uptake, protein content, and ATPase activity, as well as an upregulation of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity compared to the control. The male clone displayed a specific treatment response. Exposure to AgNPs-cit-GSH caused a decrease in DW, water content, and nutrient uptake, accompanied by a rise in protein content as well as GST activity. In AgNO₃-treated male cells, the increase in Ag content and MDA levels corresponded to a decrease in DW and a rise in protein, Cu, and Ca content. These findings offer valuable insights into sexual dimorphism in dioecious woody plants, a topic that has been largely understudied yet is critical for sustainable resource management strategies. Full article

Substantial agro-industrial waste is generated by the food industry, including pistachio green hulls (PGH), which can constitute 40% to 60% of the fresh fruit weight. This by-product contains bioactive functional components, especially phenolic compounds (PCs). An overview of research focused on PCs extracted from PGH is presented, highlighting their chemical composition, extraction methods, compound identification, and antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Extraction techniques such as ultrasound, microwave-assisted extraction, and solid-state fermentation are utilized, with mild organic solvents like water, ethanol, methanol, or their mixtures employed. The quantification of PCs is commonly performed using the Folin–Ciocalteu assay, HCl-Butanol technique, and aluminum chloride colorimetric assays. Furthermore, identification of compounds is generally accomplished through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography (GC), often coupled with mass spectrometry or photodiode-array detectors to enhance accuracy and reliability. Gallic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, cyanidin, and catechin are the main PCs identified, with their antioxidant activity validated by ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), and FRAP (ferric-reducing antioxidant power) assays. Antibacterial effectiveness has been demonstrated against bacteria using disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration methods. These findings indicate potential uses of PGH by-products in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, contributing to a circular economy and enhancing agro-industrial waste management. Full article

Excess fertiliser and sub-optimal irrigation threaten soil health in greenhouse vegetable systems on black soils. This study explored how water–fertilizer regimes shape soil aggregate structure, stability, and soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration in a meadow black soil eggplant system in Heilongjiang, China. Using a randomized block design with drip irrigation, three treatments were tested: conventional water and fertilizer (WF), conventional water with 20% fertilizer reduction (W80%F), and 20% water reduction with conventional fertilizer (80%WF). Results showed that 80%WF significantly increased macro-aggregate proportion, improved stability (mean weight diameter, MWD; geometric mean diameter, GMD), enhanced total organic carbon (TOC) content, and strengthened carbon sequestration, whereas W80%F weakened aggregate stability and reduced SOC in deeper layers. Water availability was the dominant factor for aggregate formation and SOC in surface and middle layers, while nutrients were more influential at depth. These findings demonstrate that moderate water reduction is more effective than fertilizer reduction in improving soil structure and carbon sink capacity, providing a scientific basis for precision water–fertilizer management and sustainable greenhouse agriculture in black soil regions. Full article

Metabolic dysfunction–associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is now the leading indication for liver transplantation (LT), reshaping the landscape of transplant hepatology. Its close association with obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and extrahepatic malignancies poses unique challenges throughout the transplant continuum. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence across the pre-, peri-, and post-transplant spectrum, with a focus on practical implications for clinical management. We explore pre-transplant evaluation, focusing on how metabolic comorbidities, frailty, and organ allocation disparities intersect with emerging interventions such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, bariatric surgery, and structured weight loss programs. The increase in pediatric MAFLD, especially its early-onset aggressive form, indicates an evolving and concerning future burden on transplant programs. In the peri-operative and post-transplant periods, we address MAFLD recurrence, cardiometabolic complications, and the rising incidence of new cancers, particularly in relation to calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) exposure. Customized immunosuppression strategies, using mTOR inhibitors and mycophenolate mofetil, are discussed for their role in balancing graft protection with reducing cancer risk. We also review the application of machine perfusion technologies to optimize and expand the pool of steatotic donor livers. Future directions include the development of non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers, precision immunosuppression, and genomics-based risk stratification. Collectively, these insights emphasize the urgent need for multidisciplinary, patient-specific approaches and prospective, multicenter studies to optimize outcomes and equity in the era of MAFLD-driven liver transplantation. Full article

Background: Tacrolimus is a cornerstone immunosuppressant in kidney transplantation, but its narrow therapeutic index and marked inter-patient variability complicate dose optimization. Conventional therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) relies on empirical adjustments that often overlook individual pharmacokinetics. Machine learning (ML) offers a precision dosing alternative by integrating diverse clinical and biochemical variables into predictive models. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 1351 data points from 87 kidney transplant patients at Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital (April 2019–November 2023). Clinical, demographic, and laboratory information, including tacrolimus trough levels and dosing history, were extracted from electronic medical records. Four predictive models—XGBoost, CatBoost, LightGBM, and a multilayer perceptron (MLP)—were trained to forecast next-day tacrolimus concentrations, and model serum creatinine level performance was evaluated using R-squared (R²), mean absolute error (MAE), and root-mean-squared error (RMSE). An ensemble model with weighted soft voting was applied to enhance predictive accuracy, and model interpretability was assessed using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). Results: The ensemble model achieved the best overall performance (R² = 0.6297, MAE = 1.0181, RMSE = 1.2999), outperforming all individual models, whereas the MLP model showed superior predictive power among single models, reflecting the significance of nonlinear interactions in tacrolimus pharmacokinetics. SHAP analysis highlighted prior tacrolimus levels, cumulative dose, renal function markers (eGFR level, serum creatinine level), and albumin concentration as the most influential predictors. Conclusions: We present a robust ML-based algorithm for tacrolimus dose optimization in hospitalized kidney transplant recipients. By improving predictions of tacrolimus concentrations, the model may help reduce inter-patient dose variability and lower the risk of nephrotoxicity, supporting safer and more individualized immunosuppressive management. This approach advances AI-driven precision medicine in transplant care, offering a pathway to safer and more effective immunosuppression. Full article

The Yellow River Basin serves as a critical ecological barrier and economic corridor in China, playing a pivotal role in national ecological security and sustainable development. This study develops a comprehensive evaluation framework grounded in the Water–Energy–Food–Ecosystem (WEFE) nexus, employing 25 indicators across nine provinces and autonomous regions over the period 2000–2023. Utilizing a multi-method approach—including the entropy weight method, coupling coordination degree model, center of gravity migration analysis, principal component analysis, and obstacle factor diagnosis—the research investigates the coordinated development and dynamic interactions among the WEFE subsystems. Key findings include: (1) the calculated weights of the water, energy, food, and ecological subsystems were 0.3126, 0.1957, 0.1692, and 0.3225, respectively, indicating that ecological and water subsystems exert the greatest influence; (2) distinct growth patterns among subsystems, with the energy subsystem exhibiting the fastest growth rate (212%) and the water subsystem the slowest (4%); (3) a steady improvement in the overall coordination degree of the WEFE system, rising from 0.417 in 2000 to 0.583 in 2023—a 39.8% increase—with Henan (0.739) and Inner Mongolia (0.715) achieving the highest coordination levels in 2023, while Qinghai (0.434) and Ningxia (0.417) remained near imbalance thresholds; (4) complex spatial dynamics reflected by cumulative center of gravity migration distances of 678.2 km (water), 204.9 km (energy), 143.3 km (food), and 310.9 km (ecology) over the study period; and (5) identification of per capita water resources as the principal limiting factor to coordinated WEFE development, with an obstacle degree of 0.1205 in 2023, underscoring persistent water scarcity challenges. This integrated framework advances WEFE nexus analysis and provides robust, evidence-based insights to inform regional policy and resource management strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Superior cerebellar artery (SCA) infarction is a rare but clinically significant subtype of posterior circulation stroke. Extensive swelling in the SCA territory may cause downward brainstem compression and appear as brainstem hypodensity on computed tomography, potentially leading to premature treatment withdrawal. Methods: We report the case of a 50-year-old woman with acute SCA-territory infarction (NIHSS = 7) presenting with vertigo, dysphagia, dysarthria, and diplopia. Initial computed tomography suggested extensive brainstem infarction, prompting withdrawal of treatment. Diffusion-weighted MRI revealed reversible edema with brainstem sparing. The patient underwent suboccipital decompressive craniectomy and ventricular drainage with favorable neurological recovery. In addition, a systematic literature search was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus (studies published since 1 January 2015). Fifteen studies met predefined eligibility criteria. Results: Magnetic resonance imaging findings were decisive in avoiding a falsely dismal prognosis and inappropriate withdrawal of care. Across the literature, infarct volume (>30–35 mL), brainstem involvement and bilateral cerebellar infarction emerged as key predictors of malignant course. Early decompressive surgery was consistently associated with improved survival, though functional outcomes varied. Fast magnetic resonance imaging techniques and volumetric imaging improved risk stratification and surgical decision-making. Conclusions: SCA infarction can mimic brainstem infarction on computed tomography due to secondary compression rather than true ischemia. Magnetic resonance imaging is essential to guide treatment and prevent avoidable mortality. Multimodal imaging combined with interdisciplinary management allows for accurate prognostication and optimized surgical timing in malignant SCA infarction. Full article

Given the current climate change scenario, it is essential to find strategies to reduce environmental risks and obtain economically sustainable agricultural productions. This study investigated the impact of various agronomic treatments on an almond orchard in northeastern Portugal, focusing on their relationships with crop growth/vigour and yield. The experiment was conducted using a factorial design that combined three variables: almond cultivar (Constantí and Vairo), irrigation regime (full and regulated deficit irrigation), and kaolin application (with or without application). These combinations resulted in eight distinct treatments, each replicated across two experimental plots. To monitor the crop physiological status, two drone flights equipped with a multispectral camera were flown during the kernel-filling stage (3 and 30 August 2021). Vegetation indices (VI) derived from the multispectral images were used to assess the crop vigour. In relation to the production data, including kernel and in-shell almond weights, these were collected in 14 representative trees of each treatment. Lastly, parametric and nonparametric regression analyses were performed to better understand relationships between VI and crop yields and derive predictive models. The main results can be summarised as follows: (a) cv. Vairo was more vulnerable to the regulated deficit irrigation strategy with striking repercussions on almond production, translating into an average reduction per tree of 22% and 16% in almond kernel and in-shell almonds compared to full irrigation, respectively; (b) kaolin application did not reflect statistically significant differences in the mean crop yield, as Tukey’s pairwise comparisons involving kaolin as a differentiating factor (e.g., C100+k—C100, V100+K—V100) showed confidence intervals with central value close to zero; and (c) regression analysis using the nonparametric random forest model and individualised treatments demonstrated a better agreement with the observed data (R² > 0.7). This research provided valuable insights into how cultivar selection, irrigation strategy, and kaolin application can influence the almond crop performance. When integrating multispectral aerial monitoring and advanced statistical modelling, it enables an effective assessment of both crop vigour and expected yield, supporting the development of more informed and adaptive management practices to face emerging environmental challenges. Full article

The slab system can account for a substantial portion of the structural cost; an optimized choice is essential for the financial success of a project. Despite its importance, existing research often relies on limited pairwise comparisons or single-criterion analyses (e.g., cost only), failing to provide a holistic framework. A significant gap exists in the application of a formal, quantitative Value Engineering (VE) approach that systematically balances function against cost. This study aims to fill this gap by developing a robust multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model to determine the optimal structural slab system for high-rise buildings based on the principles of Value Engineering. Unlike previous studies limited to pairwise comparisons or single-criterion analyses, this research simultaneously evaluates eight diverse slab alternatives across eight weighted performance criteria, providing a comprehensive value-based framework for systematic slab selection. First, eight key evaluation criteria were identified and weighted using the Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) method, based on input from a panel of industry experts. Subsequently, the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) was used to evaluate the performance of eight distinct slab alternatives, including conventional, voided, and precast systems. The TOPSIS ranking scores were then integrated with normalized cost data to calculate a Value Engineering index, enabling quantitative comparison and final ranking of alternatives. The main finding revealed that the Post-Tension Slab offers the highest value (VE score = 2.467), achieving a superior balance of high performance—particularly in speed and structural efficiency—and low normalized cost. Interestingly, the traditional Solid Slab ranked a close second (VE score = 2.418). Practically, this study provides project managers, developers, and engineers with a transparent, data-driven decision-making tool to justify slab selection beyond mere cost-cutting, ensuring an optimal balance between cost, schedule, and functional performance. The study provides project managers, developers, and engineers with a transparent, data-driven decision-making tool to justify slab selection beyond cost considerations. Full article

Lighting intensity (LI) affects broilers’ behavior, circadian rhythms, physiology, and welfare, making it essential in commercial broiler management. This study evaluated the effects of three LIs (50, 20, and 5 lux) on Ross 708 and Cobb 700 broilers from day 8 to 56 in separate trials conducted under identical conditions. Growth performance (body weight (BW), feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR)) and welfare indicators (gait, feather condition, temperature, and footpad dermatitis were assessed biweekly. Ross broilers at 50 lux showed reduced BW on day 42 (p = 0.03), with no BW differences observed on day 56 (p = 0.14). FCR was unaffected by LI for Ross broilers. For Cobb broilers, BW was not affected by LI, though birds under 5 lux exhibited approximately 2.6% lower FCR on day 28 (p = 0.04) and 7.8% lower FCR on day 42 (p = 0.01). LI of 50 lux was associated with increased back temperatures, while bird at 5 lux showed better feather coverage and lower belly temperature (p < 0.01). Ross under 20 lux showed poorer feather cleanliness (p < 0.01), while those under 50 lux had better gait scores on day 56 (p < 0.01). These results demonstrate that production and welfare responded differently to LI, and that these responses also varied between strains. These findings contribute to sustainable poultry production by balancing welfare, efficiency, and growth. Full article

This study investigated the effects of exopolysaccharide (EPS) addition on the formation and stability of water-stable aggregates in rhizosphere and bulk soils. A pot experiment was conducted using soils treated with EPS concentrations of 0.00‰, 0.25‰, 0.50‰, and 1.00‰. Soil aggregates were fractionated into four fractions, namely >2000 μm, 250–2000 μm, 53–250 μm, and <53 μm, and their stability was evaluated using mean weight diameter (MWD), geometric mean diameter (GMD), and fractal dimension (D). Results showed that EPS addition significantly increased the proportions of larger and macro aggregates (>2000 μm and 250–2000 μm) while reducing smaller particles (<53 μm), with rhizosphere soil exhibiting a stronger response compared to bulk soil. Aggregate stability indices (MWD and GMD) improved consistently with increasing EPS concentrations, while D decreased, indicating enhanced aggregates stability. Moderate EPS concentrations (0.25‰ and 0.50‰) were most effective in improving aggregate formation and stability and moderately enhanced plant biomass, particularly root biomass. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that macro-aggregate fractions (>2000 μm and 250–2000 μm) were positively correlated with each other but showed weak or non-significant relationships with plant biomass parameters. In particular, the 250–2000 μm fraction exhibited a weak negative correlation with total biomass (r = −0.37, p ≤ 0.05). These findings highlight the potential of moderate EPS concentrations to enhance soil structure and stability, particularly in rhizosphere soils, providing insights into its application for sustainable soil management. Full article

Flexible pavements using conventional bitumen are prone to suffering severe distress in hot climates, particularly rutting and moisture-induced damage. This study explores synergistic effects of waste-derived High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Bakelite as dual modifiers for asphalt mixtures under Pakistan’s extreme climate, where summer temperatures exceed 45 °C. Modified mixtures were prepared via wet process using HDPE (3%, 6%, 9% by weight of optimum bitumen content) combined with 6% Bakelite, evaluated against control mixtures (60/70 bitumen, NHA Class-B gradation). Performance assessment included indirect tensile strength, moisture susceptibility (TSR), resilient modulus, and Hamburg wheel tracking tests. The optimal 6%HDPE + 6%Bakelite formulation achieved remarkable improvements over control: 24.7% higher dry ITS (0.647 MPa), 48.7% higher conditioned ITS (0.617 MPa), 95.36% TSR (19% above specifications), 43.7% greater resilient modulus (4866 MPa), and 27.4% lower rutting depth (2.38 mm). These enhancements are likely associated with the development of a stiffer polymer resin network between HDPE and rigid Bakelite particles, which appears to provide a favorable balance between mixture flexibility and stiffness. At 9% HDPE, performance degradation in strength and moisture-related properties suggests possible phase separation, although rutting resistance continued improving. This dual-modification strategy provides sustainable, cost-effective enhancement of pavement durability in hot climates while addressing waste management challenges, offering significant potential for reducing maintenance costs and extending service life. Full article