Search Results (29)

Urban parks are an important component of public urban spaces, which directly impact the living experiences of residents and the urban image. High-quality urban parks are crucial for enhancing the well-being of residents. This study selected Fukuoka, Japan, as the study site. Five urban parks were chosen to evaluate landscape visual quality by using the Scenic Beauty Estimation (SBE) method. The Semantic Differential (SD) method was used to get sample subjective landscape features. Meanwhile, sample objective landscape features were obtained by using semantic segmentation techniques in deep learning and combined with spatial analysis to understand their distribution. A regression model was established, which used the SBE values as the dependent variable and subjective landscape features as the independent variables to analyze the relationship between urban park landscape visual quality and subjective landscape features. The regression analysis revealed that sense of layering, harmony, interestingness, sense of order, and vitality were the core factors influencing visual quality. All five features had a significant positive impact on landscape visual quality. The sense of order was the most influential factor, which would be the key to enhancing the landscape perception experience. Moreover, the XGBoost model and SHAP value from machine learning were used to reveal the nonlinear relationships and significant threshold effects between urban park visual quality and five objective landscape features: openness, greenness, enclosure, vegetation diversity, and Shannon–Wiener diversity index. This study showed that when openness exceeded 0.27, the positive effect was significant. The optimal threshold for the greenness was 0.38. Vegetation diversity and enclosure had to be below 0.82 and 0.58, respectively, to have a positive impact. Meanwhile, the positive influence of the Shannon–Wiener diversity index reached its maximum at a value of 1.37. This study not only establishes a systematic method for diagnosing landscape problems and evaluating landscape visual quality but also provides both theoretical support and practical guidance for urban park landscape optimization. Full article

Nitrous oxide (N₂O) is a potent greenhouse gas with intensive emissions from acidic soil. This study explored the impact of the disruption of the microbial balance from microbial inhibitors (streptomycin and cycloheximide) on soil’s N₂O emission and nitrogen (N) dynamics. Under all the conditions examined, biotic processes accounted for 96–98% of total N₂O emissions. High concentrations of streptomycin (6 and 10 mg g⁻¹) reduced N₂O emissions from 2.24 μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹ to 1.93 μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹ and 2.12 μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹, respectively, whereas lower concentrations (2 and 4.5 mg g⁻¹) increased emissions from 2.24 μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹ to 2.95 μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹ and 3.27 μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹, respectively. Lower cycloheximide (2 and 4.5 mg g⁻¹) significantly enhanced N₂O emissions, reaching 9.15 μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹ and 5.68 μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹, respectively, whereas higher dosages (6 mg g⁻¹ and 10 mg g⁻¹) inhibited N₂O emissions, reducing them to 5.55 μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹ and 4.84 μg kg⁻¹ h⁻¹, respectively. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions generally decreased with increasing inhibitor dosages but significantly increased at 2 mg g⁻¹ and 4.5 mg g⁻¹ streptomycin. The inhibitors also altered soil N and carbon (C) dynamics, increasing ammonium (NH₄⁺-N), dissolved organic nitrogen (DON), and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) levels. Pearson correlation analysis indicated that N₂O emission was negatively correlated with cycloheximide dosage (R = −0.68, p < 0.001), NH₄⁺-N (R = −0.31, p < 0.001) and DOC content (R = −0.57, p < 0.05). These findings highlight the consequences of microbial disruption on N₂O emission and the complex microbial interactions in acidic soils. High concentrations of microbial inhibitors effectively reduce N₂O emissions by suppressing key microbial groups in nitrification and denitrification. Conversely, lower concentrations may prompt compensatory responses from surviving microorganisms, resulting in increased N₂O production. Future research should focus on sustainable management strategies to mitigate N₂O emissions while preserving the soil’s microbial community. Full article

In the present study, liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS) was employed to analyze chlorinated paraffin (CP) homolog distributions and concentrations in household dust from South China and the Midwestern United States. The median levels of short-, medium-, and long-chain CPs (∑SCCPs, ∑MCCPs, ∑LCCPs) in South China were quantified as 23.1, 36.2, and 32.8 μg/g, respectively. Comparatively, the corresponding values in the Midwestern U.S. samples were 9.4, 39.5, and 15.4 μg/g, respectively. Notably, ∑LCCP concentrations in South China significantly exceeded those in the U.S. (p < 0.05), while no difference was found for ∑SCCPs and ∑MCCPs. Additionally, very short-chain CPs (C_≤9) were detected in 13% of samples across both regions. The distribution of CP homologues in the dust samples from the two regions was similar, with C₁₃, C₁₄, and C₁₈ groups as the predominant carbon homologue and Cl_7-8, Cl_7-9, and Cl_9-10 as the predominant chlorine homologue of SCCPs, MCCPs, and LCCPs, respectively. Risk assessment indicated dust ingestion-derived CP intakes for adults and toddlers were 2–5 orders of magnitude below reference doses. However, given other exposure pathways and the combined effects of CP monomers, the potential health risks from exposure via dust should not be underestimated. Full article

Currently, coordinated development in terms of perceived urban quality and function has become a key problem. However, there is an imbalance between the street environment and urban amenities. It is necessary to explore the current status and propose optimization strategies to promote the coordinated development of urban spaces. Dalian, China, was selected as the study area. Based on space syntax, high-accessibility and low-accessibility streets were selected as study sites. An evaluation system was constructed as part of the study. It included the urban function and perceived street quality. Data on the density and diversity of urban amenities were obtained by establishing points of interest (POIs). The subjective and psychological perception of quality was calculated using street view images (SVIs). Then, a coupling analysis based on the urban function and perceived quality was conducted as part of the study. The results indicated that there were differences in the development levels of urban amenities and in regard to spatial quality in Dalian. Specifically, high-accessibility streets and urban amenities were mainly concentrated in the central urban area. The perceived quality of high-accessibility streets was higher than low-accessibility streets. The coupling analysis found that high-accessibility and low-accessibility streets had the highest proportions of advantage streets and opportunity streets. The urban amenities and subjective perception of quality were the highest in regard to advantage streets. The perception of beauty was the lowest in regard to maintenance streets. The psychological perception was the highest among improvement streets. Openness was the highest in regard to opportunity streets. As a result of the coupling analysis, this study not only helps to optimize the layout of urban amenities and improve the quality of the street environment, but also provides practical guidance for future urban design. Additionally, the results of this study will help to promote the coordinated development of street environments and urban amenities and enhance the overall livability and spatial quality of the urban environment. Full article

Purpose: To investigate the causal relationship between type 1 diabetes (T1D) and cataracts and to explore the mediating role of serum metabolites. Methods: This study employed bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) using genetic variants as instrumental variables to infer causality in both directions: from T1D to cataracts and cataracts to T1D. Genetic data for T1D, its complications, and cataracts were sourced from independent genome-wide association study (GWAS) datasets. A two-step multivariable MR combined with mediation analysis was conducted to evaluate the indirect effects of serum metabolites in the causal pathway from T1D to cataracts. Results: The MR analysis demonstrated a significant causal association between T1D and an increased risk of cataracts (OR = 1.01–1.05; p < 0.05). Further analysis showed that patients with T1D complications such as coma, ketoacidosis, nephropathy, and retinopathy exhibited a significantly higher risk of developing cataracts compared to those without complications. Sensitivity analyses upheld the robustness of these findings, with no evidence of heterogeneity or pleiotropy. Additionally, 102 serum metabolites were found to exhibit statistically significant mediation effects on cataract risk, with four (13-HODE + 9-HODE, 2-naphthol sulfate, docosadienoate (22:2n6), and X-12906) showing significant mediation effects. Specifically, 13-HODE + 9-HODE had a protective effect, while the other three metabolites were linked to an increased cataract risk. Conclusions: This study provides strong evidence of a causal link between T1D and cataracts, highlighting the mediating role of specific serum metabolites. These findings underscore the importance of early detection and management of cataracts in patients with T1D and suggest potential therapeutic targets for mitigating cataract risk. Further research should focus on replicating these findings in diverse populations and exploring the underlying metabolic pathways in greater detail. Full article

The serious impact of Alternaria alternata on jujube black spot disease has seriously affected the quality and yield of jujube, constraining the sustainable development of the jujube industry. The purpose of this study was to isolate and screen highly effective biocontrol strains of jujube black spot disease from jujube rhizosphere soil. Thirty-three soil samples were collected from four regions in southern Xinjiang. The strains with antagonistic effects were isolated and screened by the dilution spread method and plate confrontation method and identified by morphological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics, as well as 16S rDNA, gyrB, and rpoB gene sequences. Indoor and field efficacy experiments were conducted to determine their biocontrol effect. A total of 110 strains with antibacterial activity were selected, and one strain, Bacillus velezensis 26-8, with a stable antagonistic effect was further tested. Biological characteristic experiments showed that strain 26-8 could grow at NaCl concentrations of 0.5–10% and pH 4.0–9.0. The biocontrol experiment results showed that Bacillus velezensis 26-8 could achieve an 89.83% control effect against black spot disease. In conclusion, strain 26-8 has good salt and alkali tolerance, exerts a good control effect on jujube black spot disease, and is worthy of further study. Full article

Actinidia arguta is a cold-resistant fruit tree but intolerant to waterlogging. Waterlogging stress is the major abiotic stress in A. arguta growth, and several pathways are involved in the response mechanisms. Fifteen physiological indices and transcriptome data of two A. arguta cultivars, which showed two forms under waterlogging, were used to identify the major factor following the leaf senescence in waterlogging. Through principal component analysis (PCA) of 15 physiological indices in ‘Kuilv’ and ‘Lvwang’, the hormone contents were selected as the most important principal component (PCA 2) out of four components in response to waterlogging stress. According to the analysis of transcriptome data, 21,750 differentially expressed genes were identified and 10 genes through WGCNA, including hormone metabolism and sucrose metabolism, were screened out on the 6th day of waterlogging. In particular, the ABA signal transduction pathway was found to be closely related to the response to waterlogging based on the correlation analysis between gene expression level and plant hormone content, which may have regulated physiological indicators and morphological changes together with other hormones. Overall, the phenomenon of leaves falling induced by ABA might be a protective mechanism. The results provided more insights into the response mechanism of coping with waterlogging stress in A. arguta. Full article

Urban green spaces play a crucial role in providing social services and enhancing residents’ mental health. It is essential for sustainable urban planning to explore the relationship between urban green spaces and human perceptions, particularly their visual comfort. However, most current research has analyzed green spaces using two-dimensional indicators (remote sensing), which often overlook human visual perceptions. This study combined two-dimensional and three-dimensional methods to evaluate urban green spaces. Additionally, the study employed machine learning to quantify residents’ visual comfort in green-space environments and explored the relationship between green spaces and human visual perceptions. The results indicated that Kitakyushu exhibited a moderate FCV and an extremely low Green View Index (GVI). Yahatanishi-ku was characterized as having the highest visual comfort. Tobata-ku demonstrated the lowest visual comfort. Natural, GVI, openness, enclosure, vegetation diversity, landscape diversity, and NDBI were positively correlated with visual comfort. FCV and ENVI were negatively correlated with visual comfort. Vegetation diversity had the most impact on improving visual comfort. By integrating remote sensing and street-view data, this study introduces a methodology to ensure a more holistic assessment of green spaces. Urban planners could use it to better identify areas with insufficient green space or areas that require improvement in terms of green-space quality. Meanwhile, it could be helpful in providing valuable input for formulating more effective green-space policies and improving overall urban environmental quality. The study provides a scientific foundation for urban planners to improve the planning and construction of healthy and sustainable cities. Full article

Diabetic wounds present significant burdens to both patients and the healthcare system due to their prolonged inflammatory phase and adverse microenvironment. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly Scutellaria baicalensis extract (SE), has shown promise in wound healing. Herein, sesbania gum (SG) was oxidized and formed hydrogel with carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) through the imine bond. Then, SE was loaded into the hydrogel as a wound dressing (CMCS−OSG@SE hydrogel). In vitro experiments demonstrated the mechanical properties and ROS scavenging efficiency of the hydrogel, as well as the release of SE and its biocompatibility. In an vivo study, diabetic mice with S. aureus infection were used, and the CMCS−-OSG@SE hydrogel dressing accelerated wound healing by promoting epidermal regeneration and collagen deposition. This composite polysaccharide hydrogel loaded with SE shows great potential for diabetic wound treatment. Full article

Plague is an endemic infectious disease caused by Yersinia pestis. In this study, we isolated fourteen phages with similar sequence arrangements to phage 186; these phages exhibited different lytic abilities in Enterobacteriaceae strains. To illustrate the phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary relationships between previously designated 186-type phages, we analysed the complete sequences and important genes of the phages, including whole-genome average nucleotide identity (ANI) and collinearity comparison, evolutionary analysis of four conserved structural genes (V, T, R, and Q genes), and analysis of the regulatory genes (cI, apl, and cII) and integrase gene (int). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that thirteen of the newly isolated phages belong to the genus Eganvirus and one belongs to the genus Felsduovirus in the family Peduoviridae, and these Eganvirus phages can be roughly clustered into three subgroups. The topological relationships exhibited by the whole-genome and structural genes seemed similar and stable, while the regulatory genes presented different topological relationships with the structural genes, and these results indicated that there was some homologous recombination in the regulatory genes. These newly isolated 186-type phages were mostly isolated from dogs, suggesting that the resistance of Canidae to Y. pestis infection may be related to the wide distribution of phages with lytic capability. Full article

Organic–inorganic hybrid halides and their analogs that exhibit efficient broadband emission from self-trapped excitons (STEs) offers an unique pathway towards realization of highly efficient white light sources for lighting applications. An appropriate dilution of ns² ions into a halide host is essential to produce auxiliary emissions. However, the realization of ns² cation-based halides phosphor that can be excited by blue light-emitting diode (LED) is still rarely reported. In this study, a zero-dimensional Te-based single crystal (C₈H₂₀N)₂TeCl₆ was synthesized, which exhibits a yellow-orange emission centered at 600 nm with a full width at half maximum of 130 nm upon excitation under 437 nm. Intense electron–phonon coupling was confirmed in the (C₈H₂₀N)₂TeCl₆ single crystal and the light emitting mechanism is comprehensively discussed. The results of this study are pertinent to the emissive mechanism of Te-based hybrid halides and can facilitate discovery of unidentified metal halides with broadband excitation features. Full article

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by abnormalities in structure and function of the brain. However, how ASD affects the relationship between fiber-bundle microstructures and functional connectivity (FC) remains unclear. Here, we analyzed structural and functional images of 26 high-functioning adult males with ASD, alongside 26 age-, gender-, and full-scale IQ-matched typically developing controls (TDCs) from the BNI dataset in the ABIDE database. We utilized fixel-based analysis to extract microstructural information from fiber tracts, which was then used to predict FC using a multilinear model. Our results revealed that the structure–function relationships in both ASD and TDC cohorts were strongly aligned in the primary cortex but decoupled in the high-order cortex, and the ASD patients exhibited reduced structure–function relationships throughout the cortex compared to the TDCs. Furthermore, we observed that the disrupted relationships in ASD were primarily driven by alterations in FC rather than fiber-bundle microstructures. The structure–function relationships in the left superior parietal cortex, right precentral and inferior temporal cortices, and bilateral insula could predict individual differences in clinical symptoms of ASD patients. These findings underscore the significance of altered relationships between fiber-bundle microstructures and FC in the etiology of ASD. Full article

Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. is an important medicinal plant in northeast China. Cutting propagation is an effective method for the rapid propagation of many tree species. This research aimed to determine a suitable growing medium and appropriate root hormone type, concentration and treatment time through the utilization of different substrates and hormones to treat one-year-old branches of S. chinensis. The optimal treatment achieved a rooting rate of 60% with 225 ppm ABT and 75 ppm NAA for 2.5 h. The substrate of vermiculite/perlite = 1:1 (urea+potassium) was beneficial to the adventitious root formation, which reached 79%. The adventitious root primordium of S. chinensis originated from the junction of the xylem and cambium. ABT and NAA treatments altered the peak timing of POD, PPO and IAAO in S. chinensis cuttings. During the adventitious root formation of S. chinensis cuttings, the high endogenous IAA concentration promoted the occurrence of adventitious roots in the early stage and the lower endogenous IAA and GA₃ concentrations promoted the elongation and growth of adventitious roots in the later period. Low ABA and ZR concentrations enabled adventitious root formation and elongation. An efficient cutting propagation system would enable the mass propagation of S. chinensis seedlings. Full article

In this work, a chemical modification method was used to prepare silicone grease with high thermal conductivity. We report two preparation methods for thermal conductive fillers, which are hydroxylated boron nitride-grafted carboxylic silicone oil (h-BN-OH@CS) and amino boron nitride-grafted carboxylic silicone oil (h-BN-NH₂@CS). When h-BN-OH@CS and h-BN-NH₂@CS were filled with 30 wt% in the base grease, the thermal conductivity was 1.324 W m⁻¹ K⁻¹ and 0.982 W m⁻¹ K⁻¹, which is 6.04 and 4.48 times that of the base grease (0.219 W m⁻¹ K⁻¹), respectively. The interfacial thermal resistance is reduced from 11.699 °C W⁻¹ to 1.889 °C W⁻¹ and 2.514 °C W⁻¹, respectively. Inorganic filler h-BN and organic filler carboxylic silicone oil were chemically grafted to improve the compatibility between h-BN and the base grease. The covalent bond between functionalized h-BN and carboxylic silicone oil is stronger than the van der Waals force, which can reduce the viscosity of the silicone grease. Full article

An integrated dual-signal bioassay was devised to fulfil thrombin (TB) ultrasensitive detection by integrating visualization with the photoelectrochemical technique based on G-quadruplex/hemin. During the process, branched sheet embedded copper-based oxides prepared with illumination and alkaline condition play a vital role in obtaining the desirable photocurrent. The switchover of photoelectrochemical signal was realized by the adjustable distance between electron acceptor G-quadruplex/hemin and interface materials due to dissociation of the Cu/Mn double-doped cerium dioxide (CuMn@CeO₂)/DNA caused by the addition of TB. Then, CuMn@CeO₂ transferred onto visual zones triggered catalytic reactions under the existence of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine and hydrogen peroxide, making a variation in color recognized by the naked eye and providing visual prediction. Under optimized conditions, this bioassay protocol demonstrated wide linear ranges (0.0001–50 nM), high selectivity, stability, and reproducibility. More importantly, the proposed visual/photoelectrochemical transduction mechanism platform exhibits a lower background signal and more reliable detection results, which also offers an effective way for detecting other proteins and nucleic acids. Full article