Search Results (2,767)

Underground cold storage gives rise to special challenges that require innovative solutions to ensure maximum energy efficiency. Conventional energy systems tend to be based on high energy use, so sustainable solutions are crucial. This study explores the novel idea of biomimetics and how it might be used in the planning and building of underground cold storage facilities as well as other infrastructure projects. Biomimetic strategies, inspired by termite mounds, gentoo penguin feathers, and beehive structures, are applied to minimize reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems. These natural models offer efficient thermal regulation, airflow optimization, and passive cooling mechanisms such as geothermal energy harvesting. The integration of naturally driven convection and ventilation ensures stable internal temperatures under varying conditions. Biomimicry was employed in Revit Architecture, coupled with structural optimization, to eliminate urban space’s limitations and further increase energy efficiency. The analytical work for this paper utilized a set of formulas that represent heat flow, thermal resistance, R-value, thermal transmittance, U-value, solar absorption, and G-value. The results pointed to very good insulation, with exterior walls having an R-value of 10.2 m²K/W and U-value of 0.98 W/m²K. Among the chosen 3-layer ETFE cushion with a U-value of 1.96 W/m²K, with a G-value of 0.50, showed good heat regulation and daylight management. Furthermore, bagasse-cement composites with a very low thermal conductivity of 0.10–0.30 W/m·K provided good insulation. This research proposes a scalable and sustainable approach in the design of underground cold storage by merging modelling based on Revit with thermal simulations. Biomimicry has been demonstrated to have the potential for changing subterranean infrastructure, conserving energy consumption, and creating eco-friendly construction practices. Full article

This study focuses on the spatiotemporal dynamic changes in water retention capacity and the nonlinear research of its influencing factors. By using the InVEST model, the changing trends of water retention capacity in different regions and at various time scales were analyzed. Based on this, the results were further examined using the CatBoost model with SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) analysis and PDP (Partial Dependence Plot) analysis. The results show the following: (1) From 2003 to 2023, the water conservation capacity first increased and then decreased, and spatially, the water conservation capacity of the mountainous area in the west of the Yiluo River Basin and Xionger Mountain in the middle part of the basin increased as a whole. At the same time, the forest land in the basin contributed more than 60% of the water conservation capacity. (2) Precipitation is the most significant driving factor for water conservation in the basin, and plant water content, soil type, and temperature are also the main driving factors for water conservation in the Yiluo River Basin. (3) The interaction between temperature and other influencing factors can significantly improve water conservation. This research not only provides scientific evidence for understanding the driving mechanisms of water conservation but also offers references for water resource management and ecological protection planning. Full article

Identifying ecological distribution responses to climate change is pivotal for preserving biodiversity. Ilex macrocarpa, a deciduous tree of the Aquifoliaceae family, has considerable ecological and medicinal benefits. This study investigated the impact of climate change on the potential distribution of I. macrocarpa using MaxEnt modeling and GIS analysis. We analyzed 562 occurrence records against 19 bioclimatic variables, subsequently refined to 7 key predictors through Pearson correlation analysis (|r| ≤ 0.75). The MaxEnt model demonstrated high predictive accuracy (AUC = 0.902 ± 0.010). Annual precipitation (67.9% contribution) and the minimum temperature of the coldest month (18.4% contribution) emerged as the primary determinants of I. macrocarpa distribution. Currently, suitable habitats occupy 252.97 × 10⁴ km² (26.35%) of the total land area of China, with highly suitable areas (72.82 × 10⁴ km²) predominantly found in southern China. Under future scenarios, substantial distribution shifts are projected: SSP126 shows a 21.7% reduction in suitable area by 2050, followed by a 9.1% recovery by 2090; SSP245 indicates a 13.4% reduction by 2050 with minimal subsequent change; and SSP585 demonstrates the most severe impact, with a 32.0% reduction by 2090. Habitat centroid analysis reveals significant northeastward shifts under SSP126 (116.23 km by 2090), variable movements under SSP245, and southwestern displacement under SSP585 (143.23 km by 2090). These findings suggest differential responses across climate scenarios, with implications for conservation planning and management strategies. Full article

With the rapid advancement of urbanisation and transit networks, exploring the spatial relationship between metro systems and cultural heritage is crucial for both heritage preservation and sustainable urban development. This study uses the nearest neighbour index, kernel density analysis, and spatial value evaluation to examine the distribution patterns of cultural heritage in Beijing and its spatial interaction with the metro network. The results show that different types of cultural heritage have distinct distribution characteristics: stone inscriptions are widely dispersed due to their need for preservation in natural settings; traditional villages and ancient tombs are shaped by historical and geographical factors; and industrial heritage is concentrated in areas of historical industrial activity, reflecting strong functional zoning traits. The metro network enhances the accessibility of cultural heritage, especially national- and provincial-level sites, which are predominantly clustered near metro stations. However, geographically isolated world heritage sites, such as the Great Wall and the Ming Tombs, remain less connected to the metro network, helping preserve their authenticity and avoid overdevelopment. Furthermore, thematic designs and cultural displays within Beijing’s metro stations successfully bridge the gap between history and modernity, positioning metro stations as key platforms for cultural dissemination. Nevertheless, metro construction presents challenges to heritage conservation, including potential impacts on site stability due to tunnelling and conflicts between modern station design and the aesthetic integrity of historic districts. These findings offer practical insights for cultural heritage preservation and transit planning in Beijing and serve as a reference for the sustainable development of other historic cities worldwide. Full article

Quantifying the dynamic changes and relationships between ecosystem services (ESs) and land use change is critical for sustainable ecosystem management and land use optimization. However, comprehensive discussions on the spatiotemporal variations of ESs and their relationships with land use intensity (LUI) are lacking, particularly in the context of significant climate warming. Systematic analyses of the forestry management unit scale are limited, leading to considerable uncertainty in sustainable ecosystem management, especially in alpine ecosystems of the Northern Hemisphere, where ESs have significantly degraded. The study focuses on the Daxing’anling forest area, Inner Mongolia (DFIAM), a representative sensitive alpine ecosystem and crucial ecological security barrier in Northern China. Utilizing the InVEST model, we analyzed the spatiotemporal variations in land use and four essential ESs, water yield (WY), carbon storage (CS), soil conservation (SC), and habitat quality (HQ), from 2013 to 2018. We also assessed the dynamic relationships between LUI and these ESs using a four-quadrant model. Our findings indicate the following: (1) Land use types in DFIAM remained relatively stable between 2013 and 2018, with forest being the dominant type (approximately 93%). During this period, areas of forest, cropland, impervious surfaces, and bare land increased, while areas of grassland, water, and wetland decreased. Although the overall change of LUI was gentle, a spatial pattern of “high in the southeast and low in the northwest” emerged, with low LUI areas showing slight expansion. (2) WY, SC, and HQ decreased, while CS increased from 2013 to 2018. The spatial distributions of these ESs showed higher values in the center and lower values at the edges, with forests demonstrating a strong capacity to provide multiple ESs. (3) The relationship between LUI and the four ESs from 2013 to 2018 was predominantly negative, primarily situated in Quadrant II, indicating that increased LUI inhibited ES supply capacity. Within Quadrant II, the distribution range of LUI, WY, and HQ decreased, while CS remained stable and SC increased. Furthermore, Quadrant III (positive correlation) accounted for a large proportion (19.23%~42.31%), highlighting the important role of non-anthropogenic factors in ES changes. Overall, most ESs in the DFAIM showed a decline while LUI remained relatively stable, with predominantly negative correlations between LUI and ESs. The increased LUI driven by human activities, and other non-human factors, may have contributed significantly to ES degradation. To improve ESs, we proposed implementing differentiated land use planning and management, systematic ecological protection and restoration strategies, a multi-level ecological early-warning monitoring and evaluation network, ecological corridors and buffer zones, and a collaborative management system with multiple participation. These results provide scientific guidance for the sustainable management of alpine ecosystems, enhancement of ESs, and formulation of land resource protection policies. Full article

Phytoplankton has an essential role as a primary producer in lakes, providing information on environmental conditions and water quality. The objective of this research was to inventory, characterize, and assess the diversity of microalgae in the Quimsacocha lake system in Azuay, Ecuador. Water samples were collected from the two most important Quimsacocha lakes to morphologically characterize the microalgae and evaluate their diversity. The diversity and physicochemical parameters were measured to evaluate and explain differences in community richness and composition using multivariate analysis (NMDS and PERMANOVA). The level of organic pollution in the lakes was estimated using the Pollution Index, and the trophic status was assessed using dominant phytoplankton (AARL-PP Score). Eighty morphospecies were identified within 25 genera, 16 families and 8 classes. The Bacillariophyceae class was the most diverse, represented by five families. The genera Synedra, Chlorella, and Cosmarium were the most abundant, suggesting a moderate level of organic pollution and a mesotrophic state in the lakes. Physicochemical parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen and electrical conductivity were similar in both lakes. Nonetheless, the lake depth was different, varying between 0.9 and 8 m in LQA (with one extreme value of 22 m), compared to LQB, which had depths between 7 and 19 m. Alpha diversity revealed a significant difference (p = 0.0001) in species abundance between the two lakes, while specific richness was similar (p = 0.8213). In terms of beta diversity, a significant difference in species composition was observed (p = 0.001). This study provides base-line information regarding the ecological status of these Andean lakes, being of great help in developing conservation plans to preserve their biodiversity and water quality for human consumption. Full article

This paper explores the intersection of tourism and environmental theories, highlighting how sustainability serves as a critical bridge between the two disciplines. Tourism theories such as Butler’s Tourism Area Life Cycle (TALC) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) provide insights into destination development and tourist behavior but often lack an ecological perspective. The environmental framework, including Ecological Modernization Theory (EMT) and Common-Pool Resource (CPR) Theory, emphasizes sustainable resource management and the interconnectedness of human activities and natural systems. This paper examines common concepts such as carrying capacity, sustainable development, and behavioral insights while also identifying tensions between economic growth and environmental preservation. Case studies from Costa Rica, Hawaii, and Thailand illustrate practical applications of these theories in real-world settings, revealing how tourism can be both a threat and a tool for conservation. My paper concludes that integrating environmental impact assessment (EIA) and community-based tourism (CBT) models into tourism planning can lead to better long-term resource management. It recommends the adoption of stricter regulations on tourism development in fragile ecosystems, the implementation of eco-certifications, and the promotion of locally governed tourism initiatives. These strategies will ensure the sustainability of both tourism activities and the ecosystems on which they depend. Full article

Intelligent vehicles are expected to yield significant benefits in traffic safety, traffic efficiency, energy conservation, and carbon emission reduction. As the collaborative intelligence technology route becomes an industry consensus, intelligent vehicles will generate greater social benefits under the empowerment of roadside intelligence infrastructure. At the same time, the introduction of roadside intelligence infrastructure also adds corresponding deployment costs and operation and maintenance costs. Currently, assessments of the comprehensive social benefits and cost inputs associated with the application of vehicle–road collaborative intelligence systems remain unclear, making it difficult to provide effective references for industry development. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the multi-dimensional benefits generated by collaborative intelligence systems and the incremental costs. This study constructs a social value assessment model for vehicle–road collaborative intelligence systems, which includes three benefit sub-models for safety, efficiency, and carbon emission reduction, as well as two cost sub-models for vehicle-side networking and roadside intelligence infrastructure. Beijing is selected for case analysis. The social benefits and social incremental cost inputs of different intelligence deployment scenarios are scientifically evaluated and analyzed. The study indicates that by deploying roadside intelligence infrastructure and in-vehicle networking terminals as planned in Beijing, an accumulated safety benefit of 925.6 billion RMB, a traffic efficiency benefit of 628.9 billion RMB, and a carbon emission reduction benefit of 2.66 billion RMB are expected to be generated from 2024 to 2050. The cumulative cost investment of 28.8 billion RMB in roadside intelligence infrastructure and vehicle networking terminals is projected to yield approximately 20.8 times the increment in social comprehensive benefits. The deployment progress of roadside intelligence infrastructure and the loading progress of fleet networking terminals should be fully coordinated to maximize the social value of the system. The corresponding research findings can provide references for city managers in decision-making on intelligent road deployment, and for the coordination of vehicle manufacturers in equipping vehicle networking terminals. Full article

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major cause of ill health and one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with about 1.25 million deaths estimated in 2023. Control measures have focused principally on early diagnosis, the treatment of active TB, and vaccination. However, the widespread emergence of anti-tuberculosis drug resistance remains the major public health threat to progress made in global TB care and control. Moreover, the Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine, the only licensed vaccine against TB in children, has been in use for over a century, and there have been considerable debates concerning its effectiveness in TB control. A multi-epitope vaccine against TB would be an invaluable tool to attain the Global Plan to End TB 2023–2030 target. A rational approach that combines several B-cell and T-cell epitopes from key lipoproteins was adopted to design a novel multi-epitope vaccine candidate. In addition, interactions with TLR4 were implemented to assess its ability to elicit an innate immune response. The conservation of the selected proteins suggests the possibility of cross-protection in line with the One Health approach to disease control. The vaccine candidate was predicted to be both antigenic and immunogenic, and immune simulation analyses demonstrated its ability to elicit both humoral and cellular immune responses. Protein–protein docking and normal-mode analyses of the vaccine candidate with TLR4 predicted efficient binding and stable interaction. This study provides a promising One Health approach for the design of multi-epitope vaccines against human and livestock tuberculosis. Overall, the designed vaccine candidate demonstrated immunogenicity and safety features that warrant further experimental validation in vitro and in vivo. Full article

Background: Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are high-risk cerebrovascular anomalies that can lead to devastating complications, especially when associated with intracranial aneurysms. Their coexistence poses unique challenges in diagnosis and management due to heightened hemodynamic stress and rupture risks. This case presents a 35-year-old woman with a giant unruptured left frontal AVM and a bilobed posterior communicating artery (PComA) aneurysm, highlighting the critical role of advanced imaging, meticulous surgical planning, and individualized care in addressing complex cerebrovascular conditions. Methods: The patient presented with a generalized tonic–clonic seizure, her first-ever neurological event. Advanced imaging, including digital subtraction angiography and 3D rotational imaging, revealed a 3–4 cm AVM supplied by the left middle and anterior cerebral arteries, with venous drainage into the superior sagittal sinus. Additionally, an unruptured bilobed PComA aneurysm was identified. Given the AVM’s large size, high-flow dynamics, and significant rupture risk, surgical resection was prioritized. The aneurysm, being stable and anatomically distinct, was managed conservatively. Microsurgical techniques were employed to ensure complete AVM resection while preserving critical vascular and neurological structures. Results: Postoperative angiography confirmed the complete removal of the AVM without residual nidus or abnormal vascular connections. The patient recovered without complications, achieving seizure freedom and preserved neurological function. At the three-month follow-up, imaging showed a stable resection cavity and a hemodynamically stable aneurysm. Conclusions: This case demonstrates the power of multidisciplinary care and advanced neurosurgical techniques in achieving curative outcomes for complex cerebrovascular anomalies. It underscores the importance of risk-prioritized strategies and highlights emerging directions for the field, including AI-integrated imaging, hybrid treatment approaches, and long-term studies on hemodynamic stability post-resection. This case contributes valuable insights into optimizing outcomes for patients with coexisting AVMs and aneurysms, offering hope for those facing similarly challenging diagnoses. Full article

Tongzhou District is designated as a city sub-center with 33.3% forest cover, representing significant ecological value for Beijing. However, this extensive forest area has lacked detailed conservation measures, leading to inefficient resource utilization over the years. Therefore, determining the various maintenance measures for the different areas is very important. This study focused on exploring the relationship between the soil nutrient structure and vegetation indices in the area to develop a more precise plan for forest maintenance. This study collected 163 sample points in the four zones of Tongzhou district, including electrical conductivity, acidity and alkalinity, bulk density, soil organic matter, total nitrogen, available nitrogen, total phosphorus, total potassium, available potassium, available phosphorus, as well as vegetation characteristics such as richness, coverage, and height. The normalized difference vegetation index, difference vegetation index, ratio vegetation index, green light vegetation index, and soil-adjusted vegetation index were calculated by remote sensing images. To test the spatial distribution of soil nutrient construction and the relationship between soil and vegetation indices using the spatial interpolation method and Pearson correlation analysis, the results showed that: (1) The soil organic matter and total nitrogen were extremely low (1.282 and 0.461 g/kg). In contrast, the available and total potassium was extremely high (227.994 mg/kg and 16.866 g/kg); (2) High-value areas of available and total potassium are in the northern area, the available and total phosphorus in the central area, and the pH in the northeast area, with overall neutral-to-alkaline conditions; (3) The mean of coverage is 72.120, with high-value areas concentrated in northern parts of the central areas. While the overall coverage is extensive, height varies significantly (3.300–479.867), and high-density vegetation is limited to the northern part of the central area; (4) Vegetation height shows a significant negative correlation with total potassium and a significant positive correlation with pH values. We suggest that it is necessary to properly retain fallen leaves and dead grass in the forest to increase the organic matter content of the soil, apply more organic fertilizers, and supplement nitrogen fertilizers. In Tongzhou District, potassium fertilizer application should be reduced, particularly in the northeast and northern areas, to prevent excess fertility. In the central area, phosphorus fertilizer application should also be controlled, while in alkaline areas, fertilizer use should be optimized, and lime should be added to improve pH. Compost or humic acid can improve the soil’s ability to absorb and release phosphorus, thereby enhancing plant phosphorus uptake and increasing vegetation height and coverage. This study only analyzed spatial changes without further examining soil layer differences at varying depths and the effects of soil microorganisms. In the future, soil fertility in various depths and the functionality and diversity of soil microorganisms are worth further exploring. Full article

Globally, ecosystem services face significant degradation due to land use and land cover change (LULC) driven by human development. Despite numerous habitat quality assessments, comprehensive studies in high-mountain equatorial region basins remain scarce. This research addresses assessing habitat quality in Ecuador’s sub-basins of the Aguilán and Tabacay Rivers, with projections extending to 2050. This study considered anthropogenic threats and examined two land use change scenarios. The “Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs” (InVEST) model was used for the evaluation. A habitat quality index (HQI) was developed and categorized into five classes. The results showed that in 2018, over 50% of the study area had medium, high, and very high habitat quality levels, partly due to implementing policies, such as Reciprocal Water Agreements, developed by local initiatives. However, future projections suggest a declining trend, particularly in urban and cropland areas, highlighting the need to reinforce proactive policies. The findings of this study contribute to addressing existing gaps in habitat quality research in high-mountain regions, providing key scientific evidence to support conservation strategies, land use planning, and watershed management. Full article

The Santa Faz Pilgrimage, with over 600 years of history and as Spain’s second most significant pilgrimage, is at a critical point due to urbanization and inadequate planning. This study explores revitalizing and enhancing the historical Santa Faz routes, integrating cultural tourism, environmental sustainability, and socioeconomic benefits. Recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, the pilgrimage impacts Alicante’s cultural landscape yet faces pressure from modern urban development. Using a multidisciplinary approach aligned with the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, the study proposes alternative routes, such as a “green route” through ancient paths and water routes, a Villafranqueza route, and one from the former Monastery of Los Ángeles. These paths would be revived through local reforestation, sustainable tourism infrastructure, and rest areas for pilgrims. The restoration of the Santa Faz paths is seen as vital for cultural heritage conservation, sustainable tourism, and job creation, with both opportunities and challenges in integrating these routes into the Council of Europe’s Cultural Routes. The study advocates modifying the urban plan and promoting employment in heritage and tourism management, emphasizing the need for ongoing research and cross-disciplinary collaboration to secure the long-term preservation and development of these culturally significant spaces. Full article

The advent of digital transformation has redefined the preservation of cultural heritage and historic sites through the integration of Digital Twin technology. Initially developed for industrial applications, Digital Twins are now increasingly employed in heritage conservation as dynamic, digital replicas of physical assets and environments. These systems enable detailed, interactive approaches to documentation, management, and preservation. This paper presents a detailed framework for implementing Digital Twin technology in the management of heritage buildings. By utilizing advanced methods for data collection, processing, and analysis, the framework creates a robust data hub for Digital Twin Heritage Buildings (DT_HB). This architecture enhances real-time monitoring, improves accuracy, reduces operational costs, and enables predictive maintenance while minimizing invasive inspections. Focusing on Bab Al-Mansour Gate in Meknes, Morocco, a significant cultural landmark, this research outlines the workflow for developing a Bab Al-Mansour DT_HB platform. The platform monitors structural health and detects damage over time, offering a dynamic tool for conservation planning. By integrating innovative technologies with data-driven solutions, this study provides a replicable model for preserving heritage sites, addressing critical gaps in real-time monitoring, resource optimization, and environmental risk mitigation. Full article

Objectives: We aimed to evaluate management strategies for female urinary incontinence, specifically stress urinary incontinence (SUI), and anterior vaginal prolapse (pelvic organ prolapse, POP), emphasizing diagnostic methods, treatment options, and factors influencing surgical outcomes. Methods: We conducted a thorough literature review examining diagnostic tools, including physical examinations, urodynamic testing, and pessary evaluations, alongside treatment options for SUI and POP. Both surgical interventions, such as mid-urethral sling placement and anterior colporrhaphy, and non-surgical methods, including pelvic floor exercises, were analyzed. This review assesses these approaches’ efficacy, complications, and outcomes, incorporating current clinical guidelines and evidence-based practices. Results: Evidence indicates that SUI frequently coexists with POP, with a notable proportion of cases being occult until a prolapse is reduced. Diagnostic methods such as pessary testing and urodynamic evaluations are essential in identifying masked SUI, though their predictive accuracy varies. Surgical techniques such as using mid-urethral slings are highly effective but pose risks, including voiding dysfunction and lower urinary tract injury. Long-term data emphasize the need for personalized treatment strategies, with combined procedures showing superior outcomes for the concurrent management of POP and SUI in select cases. Conclusions: Effective management of SUI and POP requires a personalized approach, factoring in the severity of a prolapse and the likelihood of postoperative incontinence. While conservative treatments are practical initial options, surgical solutions, such as mid-urethral slings and apical suspension procedures, offer robust, lasting results for advanced cases. Preoperative diagnostics, collaborative decision-making, and tailored treatment plans are essential to optimize success and minimize complications. Future research should prioritize enhancing diagnostic precision and refining surgical methods to further advance patient care. Full article