In the evolving landscape of perishable goods management, where the balance between minimizing waste and maximizing profitability is paramount, this work introduces an innovative approach to pricing and inventory decisions for products with limited shelf lives, focusing on vegetables in supermarkets. The contribution lies in its integration of an automated pricing and restocking decision model that leverages autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) forecasting techniques alongside dynamic pricing strategies tailored to the goods’ freshness and remaining shelf life. The study uses a comprehensive sales, spoilage rates, and customer demand dataset to apply ARIMA forecasting for optimal restocking and adjusts prices dynamically based on product freshness, promoting competitive pricing and waste reduction. The results demonstrate the model’s effectiveness, reducing spoilage rates by up to 30% and increasing profitability margins by about 15%, highlighting its practical utility in real-world scenarios. The research highlights the potential for supermarkets to improve perishable goods inventory management, leading to significant economic benefits and reduced food waste. This study contributes to sustainable retail practices aligning with global responsible consumption and production initiatives, offering a scalable economic efficiency and environmental stewardship solution. Full article

The La’erma and Qiongmo Au–Se deposits are characterized by a paragenetic Au–Se association hosted in the siliceous formation of the Cambrian Taiyangding Group in the western Qinling Orogen, central China. The La’erma and Qiongmo Au–Se deposits, which are considered to be the Carlin gold deposits, comprise a variety of selenides, native gold, and stibnite coexisting with baryte. Four stages have been recognized: sage I comprises pyrite and quartz with minor stibnite; stage II is composed mainly of sulfides; stage III is composed mainly of selenides; and stage IV is dominated by quartz–baryte–dickite. Stages II and III are the main metallogenic stages. Based on changes in mineral assemblages, combined with fluid inclusions and thermodynamic data, we evaluated the physicochemical conditions of the main metallogenic stages. The logfS₂ values of ore-forming fluids at stage II ranged between −10.44 and −14.60 with logfSe₂ being less than −10.70. Comparably, during stage III, which is characterized by numerous selenides, the logfS₂ and logfSe₂ ranged from −7.13 to −12.20 and −13.98 to −8.82, respectively. The occurrence of baryte during the mineralization suggests a consistently oxidizing condition, which can effectively remove Au from fluids. More importantly, this study emphasizes that the oxidizing condition was only a fundamental prerequisite for the deposition of selenides, and a high ∑Se/S ratio of the fluid ultimately controlled the precipitation of selenides. In the La’erma and Qiongmo deposits, intense water–rock reactions occurred as ore-forming fluids flowed into the Se-rich siliceous formations, resulting in an increase in the ∑Se/S ratio of the fluid and in the precipitation of selenides. Full article

Photovoltaic (PV) power is subject to variability, influenced by factors such as meteorological conditions. This variability introduces uncertainties in forecasting, underscoring the necessity for enhanced forecasting models to support the large-scale integration of PV systems. Moreover, the presence of missing data during the model development process significantly impairs model performance. To address this, it is essential to impute missing data from the collected datasets before advancing with model development. Recent advances in imputation methods, including Multivariate Imputation by Chained Equations (MICEs), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNNs), and Generative Adversarial Imputation Networks (GAINs), have exhibited commendable efficacy. Nonetheless, models derived solely from a single imputation method often exhibit diminished performance under varying weather conditions. Consequently, this study introduces a weighted average ensemble model that combines multiple imputation-based models. This innovative approach adjusts the weights according to “sky status” and evaluates the performance of single-imputation models using criteria such as sky status, root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute error (MAE), integrating them into a comprehensive weighted ensemble model. This model demonstrates improved RMSE values, ranging from 74.805 to 74.973, which corresponds to performance enhancements of 3.293–3.799% for KNN and 3.190–4.782% for MICE, thereby affirming its effectiveness in scenarios characterized by missing data. Full article

This study utilized a diverse Capsicum accessions (5658) sourced from various species and geographical regions, deposited at the National Agrobiodiversity Center, Genebank. We employed 19 SNP markers through a Fluidigm genotyping system and screened these accessions against eight prevalent diseases of pepper. This study revealed accessions resistant to individual diseases as well as those exhibiting resistance to multiple diseases, including bacterial spot, anthracnose, powdery mildew, phytophthora root rot, and potyvirus. The C. chacoense accessions were identified as resistant materials against bacterial spot, anthracnose, powdery mildew, and phytophthora root rot, underscoring the robust natural defense mechanisms inherent in the wild Capsicum species and its potential uses as sources of resistance for breeding. C. baccatum species also demonstrated to be a promising source of resistance to major pepper diseases. Generally, disease-resistant germplasm has been identified from various Capsicum species. Originating from diverse locations such as Argentina, Bolivia, and the United Kingdom, these accessions consistently demonstrated resistance, indicating the widespread prevalence of disease-resistant traits across varied environments. Additionally, we selected ten pepper accessions based on their resistance to multiple diseases, including CMV, Phytophthora root rot, potyviruses, and TSWV, sourced from diverse geographical regions like Hungary, Peru, the United States, and the Netherlands. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into disease resistance in Capsicum, crucial for fostering sustainable agricultural practices and advancing crop improvement through breeding strategies. Full article

The use of artificial intelligence within the healthcare sector is consistently growing. However, the majority of deep learning-based AI systems are of a black box nature, causing these systems to suffer from a lack of transparency and credibility. Due to the widespread adoption of medical imaging for diagnostic purposes, the healthcare industry frequently relies on methods that provide visual explanations, enhancing interpretability. Existing research has summarized and explored the usage of visual explanation methods in the healthcare domain, providing introductions to the methods that have been employed. However, existing reviews are frequently used for interpretable analysis in the medical field ignoring comprehensive reviews on Class Activation Mapping (CAM) methods because researchers typically categorize CAM under the broader umbrella of visual explanations without delving into specific applications in the healthcare sector. Therefore, this study primarily aims to analyze the specific applications of CAM-based deep explainable methods in the healthcare industry, following the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) framework. Specifically, we selected 45 articles for systematic review and comparative analysis from three databases—PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Science—and then compared eight advanced CAM-based methods using five datasets to assist in method selection. Finally, we summarized current hotspots and future challenges in the application of CAM in the healthcare field. Full article

There have been no nationwide studies of patient opinions regarding telehealth in Saudi Arabia to identify the factors that might influence patients’ perceptions and satisfaction. This was a prospective cross-sectional study of adults in the general population who last engaged with a healthcare practitioner via a virtual appointment. The participants were recruited by convenience sampling across Saudi Arabia between November 2023 and January 2024, completing a questionnaire that gathered data on (i) basic demographic and virtual consultation information and (ii) telehealth service delivery and technology based on the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire. Of the 916 participants, 53.7% were female, with a mean age of 47.2 (14.1) years. Nearly half attended primary care appointments, with the remainder attending a range of hospital specialties. Over 90% preferred having a virtual appointment over an in-person visit. About half had telephone consultations, while about a third had video calls through hospital-provided platforms; >90% found virtual appointments useful and convenient, easy to use, effective, reliable, and produced a favorable clinical interaction; and 97.4% were satisfied with their remote consultation experience despite the technical interruptions. The individuals who were less happy with their virtual consultation were significantly younger, lived in urban areas, attended specialty clinics, were seen by a psychologist, preferred in-person appointments, and had consultations by telephone. These data provide momentum to continue with and expand telehealth, especially through video calls, supported by educational initiatives. Full article

Amid the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, the living conditions of the population were dramatically altered, with social distancing measures and the looming threat to public health leaving a profound impact on people’s lives. This study aims to assess the influence of COVID-19 on subjective well-being and overall quality of life in Mexico. A structural model with latent variables was used. Data were extracted from the National Self-Reported Well-being Survey (SWLS) from October 2020 and January 2021, featuring a robust sample size of 3615 residents from urban areas in Mexico, all aged 18 and above. Findings revealed that around 38% of the variance in overall life satisfaction in October 2020 and January 2021 could be attributed to Personal well-being (0.231), Personal satisfaction (0.320), Satisfaction with the environment (0.076), and Negative emotional states (−0.116). In comparison, October 2019 to January 2020 saw a lower 20% explained variance, primarily associated with Personal well-being (0.184), Personal satisfaction (0.270), and Satisfaction with the environment (0.052). Reliability assessments, including Cronbach’s Alpha coefficients, Rho_a, and Composite Reliability, all surpassed 0.70 for each subscale. In addition, our study confirmed convergent validity, as the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) consistently exceeded 0.50 across all subscales, while the discriminant coefficient exceeded 0.70. Full article

Allogeneic islet transplantation has become a standard therapy for unstable type 1 diabetes. However, considering the large number of type 1 diabetic patients, the shortage of donors is a serious issue. To address this issue, clinical islet xenotransplantation is conducted. The first clinical islet xenotransplantation was performed by a Swedish team using fetal pancreatic tissue. Thereafter, clinical trials of islet xenotransplantation were conducted in New Zealand, Russia, Mexico, Argentina, and China using neonatal pig islets. In clinical trials, fetal or neonatal pancreata are used because of the established reliable islet isolation methods. These trials demonstrate the method’s safety and efficacy. Currently, the limited number of source animal facilities is a problem in terms of promoting islet xenotransplantation. This limitation is due to the high cost of source animal facilities and the uncertain future of xenotransplantation. In the United States, the first xenogeneic heart transplantation has been performed, which could promote xenotransplantation. In Japan, to enhance xenotransplantation, the ‘Medical Porcine Development Association’ has been established. We hope that xenogeneic transplantation will become a clinical reality, serving to address the shortage of donors. Full article

One of the most important developments in the energy industry is the evolution of smart grids, which record minute details of voltage levels, energy usage, and other critical electrical variables through General Packet Radio Service (GPRS)-enabled meters. This phenomenon creates an extensive dataset for the optimization of the grid system. However, the minute-by-minute energy details recorded by GPRS meters are challenging to store and manage in physical storage resources (old techniques lead to a memory shortage). This study investigates using the distributed file system, replicated Gluster, as a reliable storage option for handling and protecting the enormous volumes of data produced by smart grid components. This study performs two essential tasks. (1) The storage of virtual data received from GPRS meters and load flow analysis of SynerGee Electric 4.0 software from the smart grid (we have extracted electrical data from 16 outgoing feeders, distributed lines, in this manuscript). (2) Tele-trafficking is performed to check the performance of replicated Gluster (RG) for virtual data (electrical data received from the smart grid) storage in terms of User Datagram Protocol (UDP), Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), data flow, and jitter delays. This storage technique provides more opportuni11ty to analyze and perform smart techniques efficiently for future requirement, analysis, and load estimation in smart grids compared to traditional storage methods. Full article

Background: Sustainable closed-loop supply chains have emerged as viable answers to supply chain problems. They can handle environmental damages (e.g., waste) and related social impacts. Closed-loop supply chains (CLSCs) are forward and reverse supply chain networks that have gained popularity in recent years. Recovery options such as reusing, remanufacturing and recycling can be considered in CLSCs. Methods: This paper provides a comprehensive evaluation of CLSC journal papers published between 2020 and the present. This study examines and synthesizes 54 papers from major publications in this area, covering a wide range of themes and approaches. This paper aims to respond to the following key questions: (i) What are the current trends and challenges in CLSC research, and how have they evolved since previous literature review papers? (ii) What key variables and objectives have been studied in recent CLSC research, and how have they been operationalized? (iii) What are the gaps and limitations in current CLSC research? To our knowledge, other literature review papers in this field have covered older papers, and recent papers have been ignored in them. Another research contribution of this paper is the taxonomy of it. Results: This review article highlights some developing themes and research gaps in the CLSC literature and makes recommendations for further study. Conclusions: This paper provides a comprehensive review of papers on closed-loop supply chain networks. Full article

We introduce a hybrid quantum-classical vision transformer architecture, notable for its integration of variational quantum circuits within both the attention mechanism and the multi-layer perceptrons. The research addresses the critical challenge of computational efficiency and resource constraints in analyzing data from the upcoming High Luminosity Large Hadron Collider, presenting the architecture as a potential solution. In particular, we evaluate our method by applying the model to multi-detector jet images from CMS Open Data. The goal is to distinguish quark-initiated from gluon-initiated jets. We successfully train the quantum model and evaluate it via numerical simulations. Using this approach, we achieve classification performance almost on par with the one obtained with the completely classical architecture, considering a similar number of parameters. Full article

Landslides, resulting from disturbances in slope equilibrium, pose a significant threat to landscapes, infrastructure, and human life. Triggered by factors such as intense precipitation, seismic activities, or volcanic eruptions, these events can cause extensive damage and endanger nearby communities. A comprehensive understanding of landslide characteristics, including spatio-temporal patterns, dimensions, and morphology, is vital for effective landslide disaster management. Existing remote sensing approaches mostly use either optical or synthetic aperture radar sensors. Integrating information from both these types of sensors promises greater accuracy for identifying and locating landslides. This study proposes a novel approach, the ML-LaDeCORsat (Machine Learning-based coseismic Landslide Detection using Combined Optical and Radar Satellite Imagery), that integrates freely available Sentinel-1, Palsar-2, and Sentinel-2 imagery data in Google Earth Engine (GEE). The approach also integrates relevant spectral indices and suitable bands used in a machine learning-based classification of coseismic landslides. The approach includes a robust and reproducible training and validation strategy and allows one to choose between five classifiers (CART, Random Forest, GTB, SVM, and Naive Bayes). Using landslides from four different earthquake case studies, we demonstrate the superiority of our approach over existing solutions in coseismic landslide identification and localization, providing a GTB-based detection accuracy of 87–92%. ML-LaDeCORsat can be adapted to other landslide events (GEE script is provided). Transfer learning experiments proved that our model can be applied to other coseismic landslide events without the need for additional training data. Our novel approach therefore facilitates quick and reliable identification of coseismic landslides, highlighting its potential to contribute towards more effective disaster management. Full article

The phenomenon of bone metastases presents a significant challenge within the context of advanced cancer treatments, particularly pertaining to breast, prostate, and lung cancers. These metastatic occurrences stem from the dissemination of cancerous cells into the bone, thereby interrupting the equilibrium between osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Such disruption results in skeletal complications, adversely affecting patient morbidity and quality of life. This review discusses the intricate interplay between cancer cells and the bone microenvironment, positing the bone not merely as a passive recipient of metastatic cells but as an active contributor to cancer progression through its distinctive biochemical and cellular makeup. A thorough examination of bone structure and the dynamics of bone remodeling is undertaken, elucidating how metastatic cancer cells exploit these processes. This review explores the genetic and molecular pathways that underpin the onset and development of bone metastases. Particular emphasis is placed on the roles of cytokines and growth factors in facilitating osteoclastogenesis and influencing osteoblast activity. Additionally, this paper offers a meticulous critique of current diagnostic methodologies, ranging from conventional radiography to advanced molecular imaging techniques, and discusses the implications of a nuanced understanding of bone metastasis biology for therapeutic intervention. This includes the development of targeted therapies and strategies for managing bone pain and other skeletal-related events. Moreover, this review underscores the imperative of ongoing research efforts aimed at identifying novel therapeutic targets and refining management approaches for bone metastases. It advocates for a multidisciplinary strategy that integrates advancements in medical oncology and radiology with insights derived from molecular biology and genetics, to enhance prognostic outcomes and the quality of life for patients afflicted by this debilitating condition. In summary, bone metastases constitute a complex issue that demands a comprehensive and informed approach to treatment. This article contributes to the ongoing discourse by consolidating existing knowledge and identifying avenues for future investigation, with the overarching objective of ameliorating patient care in the domain of oncology. Full article

Congenital facial weakness (CFW) encompasses a heterogenous set of rare disorders presenting with decreased facial movement from birth, secondary to impaired function of the facial musculature. The aim of the present study is to provide an analysis of subject-reported oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in congenital facial weakness (CFW) disorders. Forty-four subjects with CFW and age- and sex- matched controls were enrolled in an Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved study. Demographic data, medical and surgical history, comprehensive oral examination, and the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) were obtained. Compared to unaffected controls, subjects with CFW had higher OHIP-14 scores overall (mean $\pm$ SD: 13.11 $\pm$ 8.11 vs. 4.46 $\pm$ 4.98, p < 0.0001) and within five of seven oral health domains, indicating decreased OHRQoL. Although subjects with Moebius syndrome (MBS) were noted to have higher OHIP-14 scores than those with Hereditary Congenital Facial Paresis (HCFP), there was no significant correlation in OHIP-14 score to age, sex, or specific diagnosis. An increase in OHIP-14 scores in subjects was detected in those who had undergone reanimation surgery. In conclusion, subjects with CFW had poorer OHRQoL compared to controls, and subjects with MBS had poorer OHRQoL than subjects with HCFP. This study provides better understanding of oral health care needs and quality of life in a CFW cohort and suggests that guidelines for dental treatment are required. Full article

Gut microbes thrive by utilising host energy and, in return, provide valuable benefits, akin to a symbiotic relationship. Here, metagenomic sequencing was performed to characterise and compare the community composition, diversity and antibiotic resistance of the gut microbiota of Relict gull (Larus relictus) and Anatidae species. Alpha diversity analysis revealed that the intestinal microbial richness of L. relictus was significantly lower than that of Anatidae, with distinct differences observed in microbial composition. Notably, the intestines of L. relictus harboured more pathogenic bacteria such as clostridium, which may contribute to the decline in their population and endangered status. A total of 117 strains of Escherichia coli were isolated, with 90.60% exhibiting full susceptibility to 21 antibiotics, while 25.3% exhibited significant biofilm formation. Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database data indicated that glycopeptide resistance genes were the most prevalent type carried by migratory birds, alongside quinolone, tetracycline and lincosamide resistance genes. The abundance of resistance genes carried by migratory birds decreased over time. This metagenomic analysis provides valuable insights into the intestinal microbial composition of these wild bird species, offering important guidance for their conservation efforts, particularly for L. relictus, and contributing to our understanding of pathogen spread and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Full article

Greg Lemke’s laboratory was one of the pioneers of research into the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). Not only was Tyro3 cloned in his laboratory, but his group also extensively studied mice knocked out for individual or various combinations of the TAM RTKs Tyro3, Axl, and Mertk. Here we primarily focus on one of the paralogs—MERTK. We provide a historical perspective on rodent models of loss of Mertk function and their association with retinal degeneration and blindness. We describe later studies employing mouse genetics and the generation of newer knockout models that point out incongruencies with the inference that loss of MERTK-dependent phagocytosis is sufficient for severe, early-onset photoreceptor degeneration in mice. This discussion is meant to raise awareness with regards to the limitations of the original Mertk knockout mouse model generated using 129 derived embryonic stem cells and carrying 129 derived alleles and the role of these alleles in modifying Mertk knockout phenotypes or even displaying Mertk-independent phenotypes. We also suggest molecular approaches that can further Greg Lemke’s scintillating legacy of dissecting the molecular functions of MERTK—a protein that has been described to function in phagocytosis as well as in the negative regulation of inflammation. Full article

Background: Total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy via minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has emerged as the standard of care for early-stage endometrial cancer (EC). Prior systematic reviews and meta-analyses have focused on outcomes reported solely from randomised controlled trials (RCTs), overlooking valuable data from non-randomised studies. This inaugural systematic review and network meta-analysis comprehensively compares clinical and oncological outcomes between MIS and open surgery for early-stage EC, incorporating evidence from randomised and non-randomised studies. Methods: This study was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020186959). All original research of any experimental design reporting clinical and oncological outcomes of surgical treatment for endometrial cancer was included. Study selection was restricted to English-language peer-reviewed journal articles published 1 January 1995–31 December 2021. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted. Results: A total of 99 studies were included in the network meta-analysis, comprising 181,716 women and 14 outcomes. Compared with open surgery, laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery demonstrated reduced blood loss and length of hospital stay but increased operating time. Compared with laparoscopic surgery, robotic-assisted surgery was associated with a significant reduction in ileus (OR = 0.40, 95% CrI: 0.17–0.87) and total intra-operative complications (OR = 0.38, 95% CrI: 0.17–0.75) as well as a higher disease-free survival (OR = 2.45, 95% CrI: 1.04–6.34). Conclusions: For treating early endometrial cancer, minimal-access surgery via robotic-assisted or laparoscopic techniques appears safer and more efficacious than open surgery. Robotic-assisted surgery is associated with fewer complications and favourable oncological outcomes. Full article

High-speed submerged marine vehicles, such as torpedoes, traveling at velocities of an order of 100 m/s and above, require powerful propulsion to overcome the tremendous hydrodynamic drag. This paper aims to investigate a marine hybrid-propellant water-breathing ram rocket (marine ramjet or ducted rocket) under various underwater cruise conditions. At high underwater cruise speeds, the ram rocket outperforms regular rocket motors, substantially increasing its specific impulse and thrust. This investigation utilized a unique test facility capable of dynamically testing the marine ramjet. Over 20 dynamic experiments have been conducted, revealing the submerged motor characteristics at different cruise speeds, water-to-propellant mass ratios, and oxidizer-to-fuel mass ratios, thereby creating a performance map of the marine ramjet. The results were compared with static firing data and theoretical calculations, showing a good agreement with standard specific impulse improvement of about 55% compared to a regular hybrid rocket, reaching a maximum value of 380 s. The significant increase in performance demonstrates the potential of the water-breathing ramjet for propelling high-speed underwater vehicles. Full article

Oil/water (O/W) emulsions were prepared using the complex of quarternized cellulose nanofiber (QCNF) and octanoyl gelatin (OC−Gel) as an emulsifier, and the effect of pH value on their stability was investigated. OC−Gel was prepared through a condensation reaction, confirmed by ¹H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT−IR) spectroscopy. It reduced air/water interfacial tension more effectively than unmodified gelatin. The complexation degree of OC−Gel and QCNF, measured by optical density, showed its maximum at a QCNF/OC−Gel mass ratio of 1/8 when the pH value of the medium was 7.4, and it increased in a saturated manner with increasing pH value. The signals of QCNF were found in the FT−IR and X−ray diffraction spectra of the complex, suggesting that the positively charged CNF were included in the OC−Gel−based complex. The complex formed a rough surface with smooth debris because the surface roughness of the complex aggregation reflected that of both QCNF and OC−Gel aggregation. QCNF could stabilize oil droplets to form a Pickering O/W emulsion. The complex of QCNF/OC−Gel was also a good emulsifier. QCNF and the complex were as potent as OC−Gel in emulsifying mineral oil in water. Most of the droplets fell within 5–25 µm, regardless of what the emulsifier was. The emulsion stabilized with OC−Gel increased in its oil droplet size more than two times in 20 days at all the pH vales tested (pH 3, 5, 7.4, 9), whereas the emulsion stabilized with QCNF remained almost constant in size during the same period regardless of the pH values. The droplet size of emulsion stabilized with the QCNF/OC−Gel complex did not change appreciably when the pH value was 5, 7.4, and 9. The complex seemed to act as a capsule wall and prevent the coalescence of the droplets. However, it increased dramatically due to the coalescence at pH 3, possibly because the complex could be dissolved under a strong acidic condition. Full article

Pervious planting concrete (PPC) is in line with the concept of ecological environmental protection. However, due to its own porous structure, it is difficult to obtain excellent mechanical properties and water permeability at the same time, which hinders its promotion and application. In this paper, natural gravel (NG), ordinary Portland cement (OPC), polyvinyl alcohol latex powder (PVAP) and polycarboxylate superplasticizer (PS) were used to prepare the PPC, and its mechanical properties and water permeability were studied. Three kinds of plants were planted in the PPC and their planting properties were studied. At the same time, the effect of Bacillus on the planting properties was studied. The results show that when the water–binder ratio (W/B) was 0.28 and the PVAP content was 0.8%, both the mechanical properties and water permeability of the PPC were optimal. The compressive strength and permeability coefficient were 14.2 MPa and 14.48 mm/s, respectively. The mechanical properties and water permeability of PPC prepared with 10~20 mm NG were better than those prepared with 5~10 mm NG. Among the three plants, the germination rate and growth of Elymus dahuricus Turcz (EDT) were the best. The incorporation of Bacillus can optimize its planting properties and promote the effective combination between plants and the PPC substrate. Full article

This study investigated the influence of high silicon (4.2 wt%) and varying aluminum (3.5–4.8 wt%) content on the high temperature oxidation behavior and thermophysical properties of SiMoAl vermicular graphite cast iron for hot-end exhaust components. Isothermal oxidation tests at 800 °C and nonisothermal oxidation tests in a dry-air atmosphere were conducted on SiMo nodular iron, along with two SiMoAl vermicular graphite cast iron variants alloyed with 3.5 wt% Al and 4.8 wt% Al. The investigations revealed the formation of a thin duplex layer of oxide scale, consisting of an iron-rich external oxide layer and continuous aluminum oxide at the metal/oxide interface. Although aluminum oxide acted as a protective barrier by impeding the solid-state diffusion of oxygen, severe subsurface oxidation was observed due to the interconnected vermicular graphite covered by aluminum oxides after decarburization. Furthermore, based on nonisothermal oxidation experiments, the effective activation energy of oxidation was found to be significantly increased by the addition of aluminum, even though the oxidation activation energies of SiMoAl samples exhibited small changes in comparison to each other. Additionally, thermophysical analysis demonstrated a substantial decrease in the thermal conductivity and a slight increase in the thermal expansion with the addition of aluminum. Full article

As climate change accelerates, urban areas are becoming increasingly inhospitable, with rising heat island effects and overall unhealthy environmental conditions. In this context, historic villages, due to their proximity to nature and lower population density, can represent a valuable alternative to unsustainable urban areas, providing better quality of life (i.e., through healthier environment, better work–life balance). They are “populated” by historic buildings characterized by high cultural value but are often in a state of abandonment. Nowadays, the adaptive reuse of cultural heritage represents an efficient strategy to adapt it to new needs/requirements and, at the same time, to preserve its historical and intrinsic values for present and future generations. In this framework, this study proposes a multidimensional evaluation framework for assessing cultural heritage adaptive reuse projects, covering all sustainability dimensions and capturing both tangible and intangible values. This framework, consisting of multiple criteria and multidimensional indicators, has been applied to evaluate alternative scenarios related to the regeneration of the abandoned Seminary in Sant’Agata de’ Goti (historic village), Benevento, Italy. In particular, three different scenarios have been evaluated by the SOCRATES (SOcial multi Criteria Assessment of European policies) method, a multicriteria decision method developed by the Joint Research Center (JRC) of the European Commission. Full article