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27 pages, 19737 KiB  
Article
Effect of Landscape Architectural Characteristics on LST in Different Zones of Zhengzhou City, China
by Jiayue Xu, Le Xuan, Cong Li, Tianji Wu, Yajing Wang, Yutong Wang, Xuhui Wang and Yong Wang
Land 2025, 14(8), 1581; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14081581 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Abstract
The process of urbanization has intensified the urban heat environment, with the degradation of thermal conditions closely linked to the morphological characteristics of different functional zones. This study delineated urban functional areas using a multivariate dataset and investigated the seasonal and threshold effects [...] Read more.
The process of urbanization has intensified the urban heat environment, with the degradation of thermal conditions closely linked to the morphological characteristics of different functional zones. This study delineated urban functional areas using a multivariate dataset and investigated the seasonal and threshold effects of landscape and architectural features on land surface temperature (LST) through boosted regression tree (BRT) modeling and Spearman correlation analysis. The key findings are as follows: (1) LST exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the strongest urban heat island effect occurring in summer, particularly within industry, business, and public service zones; residence zones experience the greatest temperature fluctuations, with a seasonal difference of 24.71 °C between spring and summer and a peak temperature of 50.18 °C in summer. (2) Fractional vegetation cover (FVC) consistently demonstrates the most pronounced cooling effect across all zones and seasons. Landscape indicators generally dominate the regulation of LST, with their relative contribution exceeding 45% in green land zones. (3) Population density (PD) exerts a significant, seasonally dependent dual effect on LST, where strategic population distribution can effectively mitigate extreme heat events. (4) Mean building height (MBH) plays a vital role in temperature regulation, showing a marked cooling influence particularly in residence and business zones. Both the perimeter-to-area ratio (LSI) and frontal area index (FAI) exhibit distinct seasonal variations in their impacts on LST. (5) This study establishes specific indicator thresholds to optimize thermal comfort across five functional zones; for instance, FVC should exceed 13% in spring and 31.6% in summer in residence zones to enhance comfort, while maintaining MBH above 24 m further aids temperature regulation. These findings offer a scientific foundation for mitigating urban heat waves and advancing sustainable urban development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Adaptation Planning in Urban Areas)
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17 pages, 3193 KiB  
Article
Effects of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Additions on the Stability of Soil Carbon Fractions in Subtropical Castanopsis sclerophylla Forests
by Yunze Dai, Xiaoniu Xu and LeVan Cuong
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1264; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081264 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Abstract
Soil organic carbon (SOC) pool plays an extremely important role in regulating the global carbon (C) cycle and climate change. Atmospheric nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) deposition caused by human activities has significant impacts on soil C sequestration potential of terrestrial ecosystem. To [...] Read more.
Soil organic carbon (SOC) pool plays an extremely important role in regulating the global carbon (C) cycle and climate change. Atmospheric nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) deposition caused by human activities has significant impacts on soil C sequestration potential of terrestrial ecosystem. To investigate the effects of N and P deposition on soil C sequestration and C-N coupling relationship in broad-leaved evergreen forests, a 6-year field nutrient regulation experiment was implemented in subtropical Castanopsis sclerophylla forests with four different N and P additions: N addition (100 kg N·hm−2·year−1), N + P (100 kg N·hm−2·year−1 + 50 kg P·hm−2·year−1), P addition (50 kg P·hm−2·year−1), and CK (0 kg N·hm−2·year−1). The changes in the C and N contents and stable isotope distributions (δ13C and δ15N) of different soil organic fractions were examined. The results showed that the SOC and total nitrogen (STN) (p > 0.05) increased with N addition, while SOC significantly decreased with P addition (p < 0.05), and N + P treatment has low effect on SOC, STN (p > 0.05). By density grouping, it was found that N addition significantly increased light fraction C and N (LFOC, LFN), significantly decreased the light fraction C to N ratio (LFOC/N) (p < 0.05), and increased heavy fraction C and N (HFOC, HFN) accumulation and light fraction to total organic C ratio (LFOC/SOC, p > 0.05). Contrary to N addition, P addition was detrimental to the accumulation of LFOC, LFN and reduced LFOC/SOC. It was found that different reactive oxidized carbon (ROC) increased under N addition but ROC/SOC did not change, while N + P and P treatments increased ROC/SOC, resulting in a decrease in SOC chemical stability. Stable isotope analysis showed that N addition promoted the accumulation of new soil organic matter, whereas P addition enhanced the transformation and utilization of C and N from pre-existing organic matter. Additionally, N addition indirectly increased LFOC by significantly decreasing pH; significantly contributed to LFOC and ROC by increasing STN accumulation promoted by NO3-N and NH4+-N; and decreased light fraction δ13C by significantly increasing dissolved organic C (p < 0.05). P addition had directly significant negative effect on LFOC and SOC (p < 0.05). In conclusion, six-year N deposition enhances soil C and N sequestration while the P enrichment reduces the content of soil C, N fractions and stability in Castanopsis sclerophylla forests. The results provide a scientific basis for predicting the soil C sink function of evergreen broad-leaved forest ecosystem under the background of future climate change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Soil)
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21 pages, 10439 KiB  
Article
Camera-Based Vital Sign Estimation Techniques and Mobile App Development
by Tae Wuk Bae, Young Choon Kim, In Ho Sohng and Kee Koo Kwon
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8509; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158509 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 38
Abstract
In this paper, we propose noncontact heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation (SpO2), and respiratory rate (RR) detection methods using a smartphone camera. HR frequency is detected through filtering after obtaining a remote PPG (rPPG) signal and its power spectral density (PSD) is detected [...] Read more.
In this paper, we propose noncontact heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation (SpO2), and respiratory rate (RR) detection methods using a smartphone camera. HR frequency is detected through filtering after obtaining a remote PPG (rPPG) signal and its power spectral density (PSD) is detected using color difference signal amplification and the plane-orthogonal-to-the-skin method. Additionally, the SpO2 is detected using the HR frequency and the absorption ratio of the G and B color channels based on oxyhemoglobin absorption and reflectance theory. After this, the respiratory frequency is detected using the PSD of rPPG through respiratory frequency band filtering. For the image sequences recorded under various imaging conditions, the proposed method demonstrated superior HR detection accuracy compared to existing methods. The confidence intervals for HR and SpO2 detection were analyzed using Bland–Altman plots. Furthermore, the proposed RR detection method was also verified to be reliable. Full article
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23 pages, 698 KiB  
Article
Modelling the Bioaccumulation of Ciguatoxins in Parrotfish on the Great Barrier Reef Reveals Why Biomagnification Is Not a Property of Ciguatoxin Food Chains
by Michael J. Holmes and Richard J. Lewis
Toxins 2025, 17(8), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins17080380 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 205
Abstract
We adapt previously developed conceptual and numerical models of ciguateric food chains on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, to model the bioaccumulation of ciguatoxins (CTXs) in parrotfish, the simplest food chain with only two trophic levels. Our model indicates that relatively low (1 [...] Read more.
We adapt previously developed conceptual and numerical models of ciguateric food chains on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, to model the bioaccumulation of ciguatoxins (CTXs) in parrotfish, the simplest food chain with only two trophic levels. Our model indicates that relatively low (1 cell/cm2) densities of Gambierdiscus/Fukuyoa species (hereafter collectively referred to as Gambierdiscus) producing known concentrations of CTX are unlikely to be a risk of producing ciguateric fishes on the Great Barrier Reef unless CTX can accumulate and be retained in parrotfish over many months. Cell densities on turf algae equivalent to 10 Gambierdiscus/cm2 producing known maximum concentrations of Pacific-CTX-4 (0.6 pg P-CTX-4/cell) are more difficult to assess but could be a risk. This cell density may be a higher risk for parrotfish than we previously suggested for production of ciguateric groupers (third-trophic-level predators) since second-trophic-level fishes can accumulate CTX loads without the subsequent losses that occur between trophic levels. Our analysis suggests that the ratios of parrotfish length-to-area grazed and weight-to-area grazed scale differently (allometrically), where the area grazed is a proxy for the number of Gambierdiscus consumed and hence proportional to toxin accumulation. Such scaling can help explain fish size–toxicity relationships within and between trophic levels for ciguateric fishes. Our modelling reveals that CTX bioaccumulates but does not necessarily biomagnify in food chains, with the relative enrichment and depletion rates of CTX varying with fish size and/or trophic level through an interplay of local and regional food chain influences. Our numerical model for the bioaccumulation and transfer of CTX across food chains helps conceptualize the development of ciguateric fishes by comparing scenarios that reveal limiting steps in producing ciguateric fish and focuses attention on the relative contributions from each part of the food chain rather than only on single components, such as CTX production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Ciguatoxin)
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25 pages, 3631 KiB  
Article
Prebiotic Xylo-Oligosaccharides Modulate the Gut Microbiome to Improve Innate Immunity and Gut Barrier Function and Enhance Performance in Piglets Experiencing Post-Weaning Diarrhoea
by James S. Stanley, Stephen C. Mansbridge, Michael R. Bedford, Ian F. Connerton and Kenneth H. Mellits
Microorganisms 2025, 13(8), 1760; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13081760 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 321
Abstract
During commercial pig production, weaning is a major stressor that disrupts the gut microbiome, compromises intestinal barrier integrity, and increases the susceptibility of piglets to pathogens. This often results in post-weaning diarrhoea (PWD), leading to growth retardation, morbidity, and economic loss. This study [...] Read more.
During commercial pig production, weaning is a major stressor that disrupts the gut microbiome, compromises intestinal barrier integrity, and increases the susceptibility of piglets to pathogens. This often results in post-weaning diarrhoea (PWD), leading to growth retardation, morbidity, and economic loss. This study investigated the effects of dietary xylo-oligosaccharide (XOS) supplementation on the growth performance and gut health of 216 piglets with naturally occurring PWD. Piglets received either 0 (CON), 50 (XOS-50), or 500 (XOS-500) mg XOS/kg feed from weaning at 28 days of age (d1) for 54 days. XOS-500 significantly improved body weight at d22 and d54, but had no effect on average daily gain, daily feed intake (DFI), or feed conversion ratio. The intestinal microbiota alpha-diversity was unaffected by XOS, though jejunal beta diversity differed between CON and XOS-500 groups at d22. Jejunal Chao richness correlated positively with d54 body weight, while ileal Chao richness correlated negatively with DFI. Salmonella was present in all diet groups but did not differ in abundance; however, the levels were negatively correlated with alpha diversity. XOSs increased Lactobacillus (d22, d54) and Clostridium_XI (d22), while reducing Veillonellaceae spp. (d22). XOSs reduced jejunal goblet cell (GC) density at d22 but increased duodenal and jejunal GCs and reduced duodenal crypt depth at d54. XOSs upregulated the genes for the tight junction proteins CLDN2, CLDN3, ALPI, and ZO-1, while downregulating the cytokine IL-8. These findings highlight XOSs’ potential to improve growth and gut health in weaning piglets with naturally occurring PWD, to maintain productivity and enhance welfare. Full article
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16 pages, 3207 KiB  
Article
Determining Vibration Characteristics and FE Model Updating of Friction-Welded Beams
by Murat Şen
Machines 2025, 13(8), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13080653 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 228
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the dynamic characteristics of shafts joined by friction welding and to update their finite element models. The first five bending mode resonance frequencies, damping ratios, and mode shapes of SAE 304 steel beams, friction-welded at three different rotational [...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate the dynamic characteristics of shafts joined by friction welding and to update their finite element models. The first five bending mode resonance frequencies, damping ratios, and mode shapes of SAE 304 steel beams, friction-welded at three different rotational speeds (1200, 1500, and 1800 rpm), were determined using the Experimental Modal Analysis method. This approach allowed for an examination of how the dynamic properties of friction-welded beams change at varying rotational speeds. A slight decrease in resonance frequency values was observed with the transition from lower to higher rotational speeds. The largest difference of 3.28% was observed in the first mode, and the smallest difference of 0.19% was observed in the second mode. Different trends in damping ratios were observed for different modes. In the first, second, and fourth modes, damping ratios tended to increase with increasing rotational speeds, while they tended to decrease in the third and fifth modes. The largest difference was calculated as 52.83% in the third vibration mode. However, no significant change in mode shapes was observed for different rotational speeds. Based on the examined Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC) results, cross-comparisons of the mode shapes obtained for all three different speeds yielded a minimum similarity of 93.8%, reaching up to 99.9%. For model updating, a Frequency Response Assurance Criterion (FRAC)-based method utilizing frequency response functions (FRFs) was employed. Initially, a numerical model of the welded shaft was created using MATLAB-R2015a, based on the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory. Since rotational coordinates were not used in the EMA analyses, static model reduction was performed on the numerical model to reduce the effect of rotational coordinates to translational coordinates. For model updating, experimentally obtained FRFs from EMA and FRFs from the numerical model were used. The equivalent modulus of elasticity and equivalent density of the friction weld region were used as updating parameters. Successful results were achieved by developing an algorithm that ensured the convergence of the numerical model’s FRFs and natural frequencies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Noises and Vibrations for Machines)
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15 pages, 3892 KiB  
Article
Zero and Ultra-Short Echo Time Sequences at 3-Tesla Can Accurately Depicts the Normal Anatomy of the Human Achilles Tendon Enthesis Organ In Vivo
by Amandine Crombé, Benjamin Dallaudière, Marie-Camille Bohand, Claire Fournier, Paolo Spinnato, Nicolas Poursac, Michael Carl, Julie Poujol and Olivier Hauger
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5251; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155251 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 222
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Accurate visualization of the Achilles tendon enthesis is critical for distinguishing mechanical, degenerative, and inflammatory pathologies. Although ultrasonography is the first-line modality for suspected enthesis disease, recent technical advances may expand the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This study evaluated [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Accurate visualization of the Achilles tendon enthesis is critical for distinguishing mechanical, degenerative, and inflammatory pathologies. Although ultrasonography is the first-line modality for suspected enthesis disease, recent technical advances may expand the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This study evaluated the utility of ultra-short echo time (UTE) and zero echo time (ZTE) sequences versus proton density-weighted imaging (PD-WI) for depicting the enthesis organ in healthy volunteers. Methods: In this institutional review board (IRB)-approved prospective single-center study, 50 asymptomatic adult volunteers underwent 3-Tesla hindfoot MRI with fat-suppressed PD-WI, UTE, and ZTE between 2018 and 2023. Four radiologists assessed image quality, signal-to-noise ratio, visibility, and abnormal high signal intensities (SIs) of the periost, sesamoid, and enthesis fibrocartilages (PCa, SCa, and ECa, respectively). Statistical tests included Chi-square, McNemar, paired Wilcoxon, and Benjamini–Hochberg adjustments for multiple comparisons. Results: The median age was 36 years (range: 20–51); 58% women were included. PD-WI and ZTE sequences were always available while UTE was unavailable in 24% of patients. PD-WI consistently failed to concomitantly visualize all fibrocartilages. ZTE and UTE visualized all fibrocartilages in 72% and 92.1% of volunteers, respectively, with significant differences favoring ZTE and UTE over PD-WI (p < 0.0001) and UTE over ZTE (p = 0.027). Inter-rater agreement exceeded 80% except for SCa on ZTE (68%, 95%CI: 53.2–80.1). Abnormal SCa findings in asymptomatic patients were more frequent with UTE (23.7%) and ZTE (34%) than with PD-WI (2%) (p = 0.0045). Conclusions: At 3-Tesla, UTE and ZTE sequences reliably depict the enthesis organ of the Achilles tendon, outperforming PD-WI. However, the high sensitivity of these sequences also presents challenges in interpretation. Full article
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24 pages, 3123 KiB  
Article
Investigation of the Effects of Water-to-Cement Ratios on Concrete with Varying Fine Expanded Perlite Aggregate Content
by Mortada Sabeh Whwah, Hajir A Al-Hussainy, Anmar Dulaimi, Luís Filipe Almeida Bernardo and Tiago Pinto Ribeiro
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(8), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9080390 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 359
Abstract
This study investigates the influence of varying water-to-cement (W/C) ratios and fine aggregate compositions on the performance of concrete incorporating expanded perlite aggregate (EPA) as a lightweight alternative to natural sand. A total of eighteen concrete mixes were produced, each with different W/C [...] Read more.
This study investigates the influence of varying water-to-cement (W/C) ratios and fine aggregate compositions on the performance of concrete incorporating expanded perlite aggregate (EPA) as a lightweight alternative to natural sand. A total of eighteen concrete mixes were produced, each with different W/C ratios and fine-to-coarse aggregate (FA/CA) ratios, and evaluated for workability, compressive strength, flexural and tensile strength, water absorption, density, and thermal conductivity. Perlite was used to fully replace natural sand in half of the mixes, allowing a direct assessment of its effects across low-, medium-, and high-strength concrete formulations. The results demonstrate that EPA can improve workability and reduce both density and thermal conductivity, with variable impacts on mechanical performance depending on the W/C and FA/CA ratios. Notably, higher cement contents enhanced the internal curing effect of perlite, while lower-strength mixes experienced a reduction in compressive strength when perlite was used. These findings suggest that expanded perlite can be effectively applied in structural and non-structural concrete with optimized mix designs, supporting the development of lightweight, thermally efficient concretes. Mixture W16-100%EPS was considered the ideal mix because its compressive strength at the age of 65 days 44.2 MPa and the reduction in compressive strength compared to the reference mix 14% and the reduction in density 5.4% compared with the reference mix and the reduction in thermal conductivity 14% compared with the reference mix. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Composite Construction Materials, Volume II)
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19 pages, 2388 KiB  
Article
Impact of Grassland Management System Intensity on Composition of Functional Groups and Soil Chemical Properties in Semi-Natural Grasslands
by Urška Lisec, Maja Prevolnik Povše, Miran Podvršnik and Branko Kramberger
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2274; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152274 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 259
Abstract
Semi-natural grasslands are some of the most species-rich habitats in Europe and provide important ecosystem services such as biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration and soil fertility maintenance. This study investigates how different intensities of grassland management affect the composition of functional groups and soil [...] Read more.
Semi-natural grasslands are some of the most species-rich habitats in Europe and provide important ecosystem services such as biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration and soil fertility maintenance. This study investigates how different intensities of grassland management affect the composition of functional groups and soil chemical properties. Five grassland management systems were analyzed: Cut3—three cuts per year; LGI—low grazing intensity; CG—combined cutting and grazing; Cut4—four cuts per year; and HGI—high grazing intensity. The functional groups assessed were grasses, legumes and forbs, while soil samples from three depths (0–10, 10–20 and 20–30 cm) were analyzed for their chemical properties (soil organic carbon—SOC; soil total nitrogen—STN; inorganic soil carbon—SIC; soil organic matter—SOM; potassium oxide—K2O; phosphorus pentoxide—P2O5; C/N ratio; and pH) and physical properties (volumetric soil water content—VWC; bulk density—BD; and porosity—POR). The results showed that less intensive systems had a higher proportion of legumes, while species diversity, as measured via the Shannon index, was the highest in the Cut4 system. The CG system tended to have the highest SOC and STN at a 0–10 cm depth, with a similar trend observed for SOCstock at a 0–30 cm depth. The Cut4, HGI and CG systems also had an increased STNstock. Both grazing systems had the highest P2O5 content. A tendency towards a higher BD was observed in the top 10 cm of soil in the more intensive systems. Choosing a management strategy that is tailored to local climate and site conditions is crucial for maintaining grassland stability, enhancing carbon sequestration and promoting long-term sustainability in the context of climate change. Full article
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23 pages, 2173 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Soil Quality and Balancing of Nitrogen Application Effects in Summer Direct-Seeded Cotton Fields Based on Minimum Dataset
by Yukun Qin, Weina Feng, Cangsong Zheng, Junying Chen, Yuping Wang, Lijuan Zhang and Taili Nie
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1763; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081763 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 199
Abstract
There is a lack of systematic research on the comprehensive regulatory effects of urea and organic fertilizer application on soil quality and cotton yield in summer direct-seeded cotton fields in the Yangtze River Basin. Additionally, there is a redundancy of indicators in the [...] Read more.
There is a lack of systematic research on the comprehensive regulatory effects of urea and organic fertilizer application on soil quality and cotton yield in summer direct-seeded cotton fields in the Yangtze River Basin. Additionally, there is a redundancy of indicators in the cotton field soil quality evaluation system and a lack of reports on constructing a minimum dataset to evaluate the soil quality status of cotton fields. We aim to accurately and efficiently evaluate soil quality in cotton fields and screen nitrogen application measures that synergistically improve soil quality, cotton yield, and nitrogen fertilizer utilization efficiency. Taking the summer live broadcast cotton field in Jiangxi Province as the research object, four treatments, including CK without nitrogen application, CF with conventional nitrogen application, N1 with nitrogen reduction, and N2 with nitrogen reduction and organic fertilizer application, were set up for three consecutive years from 2022 to 2024. A total of 15 physical, chemical, and biological indicators of the 0–20 cm plow layer soil were measured in each treatment. A minimum dataset model was constructed to evaluate and verify the soil quality status of different nitrogen application treatments and to explore the physiological mechanisms of nitrogen application on yield performance and stability from the perspectives of cotton source–sink relationship, nitrogen use efficiency, and soil quality. The minimum dataset for soil quality evaluation in cotton fields consisted of five indicators: soil bulk density, moisture content, total nitrogen, organic carbon, and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, with a simplification rate of 66.67% for the evaluation indicators. The soil quality index calculated based on the minimum dataset (MDS) was significantly positively correlated with the soil quality index of the total dataset (TDS) (R2 = 0.904, p < 0.05). The model validation parameters RMSE was 0.0733, nRMSE was 13.8561%, and the d value was 0.9529, all indicating that the model simulation effect had reached a good level or above. The order of soil quality index based on MDS and TDS for CK, CF, N1, and N2 treatments was CK < N1 < CF < N2. The soil quality index of N2 treatment under MDS significantly increased by 16.70% and 26.16% compared to CF and N1 treatments, respectively. Compared with CF treatment, N2 treatment significantly increased nitrogen fertilizer partial productivity by 27.97%, 31.06%, and 21.77%, respectively, over a three-year period while maintaining the same biomass, yield level, yield stability, and yield sustainability. Meanwhile, N1 treatment had the risk of significantly reducing both boll density and seed cotton yield. Compared with N1 treatment, N2 treatment could significantly increase the biomass of reproductive organs during the flower and boll stage by 23.62~24.75% and the boll opening stage by 12.39~15.44%, respectively, laying a material foundation for the improvement in yield and yield stability. Under CF treatment, the cotton field soil showed a high degree of soil physical property barriers, while the N2 treatment reduced soil barriers in indicators such as bulk density, soil organic carbon content, and soil carbon-to-nitrogen ratio by 0.04, 0.04, 0.08, and 0.02, respectively, compared to CF treatment. In summary, the minimum dataset (MDS) retained only 33.3% of the original indicators while maintaining high accuracy, demonstrating the model’s efficiency. After reducing nitrogen by 20%, applying 10% total nitrogen organic fertilizer could substantially improve cotton biomass, cotton yield performance, yield stability, and nitrogen partial productivity while maintaining soil quality levels. This study also assessed yield stability and sustainability, not just productivity alone. The comprehensive nitrogen fertilizer management (reducing N + organic fertilizer) under the experimental conditions has high practical applicability in the intensive agricultural system in southern China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Green and Efficient Cotton Cultivation)
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16 pages, 4815 KiB  
Technical Note
Preliminary Analysis of a Novel Spaceborne Pseudo Tripe-Frequency Radar Observations on Cloud and Precipitation: EarthCARE CPR-GPM DPR Coincidence Dataset
by Zhen Li, Shurui Ge, Xiong Hu, Weihua Ai, Jiajia Tang, Junqi Qiao, Shensen Hu, Xianbin Zhao and Haihan Wu
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(15), 2550; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17152550 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 220
Abstract
By integrating EarthCARE W-band doppler cloud radar observations with GPM Ku/Ka-band dual-frequency precipitation radar data, this study constructs a novel global “pseudo tripe-frequency” radar coincidence dataset comprising 2886 coincidence events (about one-third of the events detected precipitation), aiming to systematically investigating band-dependent responses [...] Read more.
By integrating EarthCARE W-band doppler cloud radar observations with GPM Ku/Ka-band dual-frequency precipitation radar data, this study constructs a novel global “pseudo tripe-frequency” radar coincidence dataset comprising 2886 coincidence events (about one-third of the events detected precipitation), aiming to systematically investigating band-dependent responses to cloud and precipitation structure. Results demonstrate that the W-band is highly sensitive to high-altitude cloud particles and snowfall (reflectivity < 0 dBZ), yet it experiences substantial signal attenuation under heavy precipitation conditions, and with low-altitude reflectivity reductions exceeding 50 dBZ, its probability density distribution is more widespread, with low-altitude peaks increasing first, and then decreasing as precipitation increases. In contrast, the Ku and Ka-band radars maintain relatively stable detection capabilities, with attenuation differences generally within 15 dBZ, but its probability density distribution exhibits multiple peaks. As the precipitation rate increases, the peak value of the dual-frequency ratio (Ka/W) gradually rises from approximately 10 dBZ to 20 dBZ, and can even reach up to 60 dBZ under heavy rainfall conditions. Several cases analyses reveal clear contrasts: In stratiform precipitation regions, W-band radar reflectivity is higher above the melting layer than below, whereas the opposite pattern is observed in the Ku and Ka bands. Doppler velocities exceeding 5 m s−1 and precipitation rates surpassing 30 mm h−1 exhibit strong positive correlations in convection-dominated regimes. Furthermore, the dataset confirms the impact of ice–water cloud phase interactions and terrain-induced precipitation variability, underscoring the complementary strengths of multi-frequency radar observations for capturing diverse precipitation processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Atmospheric Remote Sensing)
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20 pages, 4420 KiB  
Article
Perception of Light Environment in University Classrooms Based on Parametric Optical Simulation and Virtual Reality Technology
by Zhenhua Xu, Jiaying Chang, Cong Han and Hao Wu
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2585; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152585 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 277
Abstract
University classrooms, core to higher education, have indoor light environments that directly affect students’ learning efficiency, visual health, and psychological states. This study integrates parametric optical simulation and virtual reality (VR) to explore light environment perception in ordinary university classrooms. Forty college students [...] Read more.
University classrooms, core to higher education, have indoor light environments that directly affect students’ learning efficiency, visual health, and psychological states. This study integrates parametric optical simulation and virtual reality (VR) to explore light environment perception in ordinary university classrooms. Forty college students (18–25 years, ~1:1 gender ratio) participated in real virtual comparative experiments. VR scenarios were optimized via real-time rendering and physical calibration. The results showed no significant differences in subjects’ perception evaluations between environments (p > 0.05), verifying virtual environments as effective experimental carriers. The analysis of eight virtual conditions (varying window-to-wall ratios and lighting methods) revealed that mixed lighting performed best in light perception, spatial perception, and overall evaluation. Light perception had the greatest influence on overall evaluation (0.905), with glare as the core factor (0.68); closure sense contributed most to spatial perception (0.45). Structural equation modeling showed that window-to-wall ratio and lighting power density positively correlated with subjective evaluations. Window-to-wall ratio had a 0.412 direct effect on spatial perception and a 0.84 total mediating effect (67.1% of total effect), exceeding the lighting power density’s 0.57 mediating effect sum. This study confirms mixed lighting and window-to-wall ratio optimization as keys to improving classroom light quality, providing an experimental paradigm and parameter basis for user-perception-oriented design. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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10 pages, 2061 KiB  
Article
Controlled Synthesis of Tellurium Nanowires and Performance Optimization of Thin-Film Transistors via Percolation Network Engineering
by Mose Park, Zhiyi Lyu, Seung Hyun Song and Hoo-Jeong Lee
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(14), 1128; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15141128 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 271
Abstract
In this study, we propose a method for systematic nanowire length control through the precise control of the polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) concentration during the synthesis of tellurium nanowires. Furthermore, we report the changes in the electrical properties of thin-film transistor (TFT) devices with different [...] Read more.
In this study, we propose a method for systematic nanowire length control through the precise control of the polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) concentration during the synthesis of tellurium nanowires. Furthermore, we report the changes in the electrical properties of thin-film transistor (TFT) devices with different lengths of synthesized tellurium nanowires used as channels. Through the use of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), it was determined that the length of the wires increased in relation to the amount of PVP incorporated, while the diameter remained consistent. The synthesized long wires formed a well-connected percolation network with a junction density of 4.6 junctions/µm2, which enabled the fabrication of devices with excellent electrical properties, the highest on/off ratio of 103, and charge mobility of 1.1 cm2/V·s. In contrast, wires with comparatively reduced PVP content demonstrated a junction density of 2.1 junctions/µm2, exhibiting a lower on/off ratio and reduced charge mobility. These results provide guidance on how the amount of PVP added during wire growth affects the length of the synthesized wires and how it affects the connectivity between the wires when they form a network, which may help optimize the performance of high-performance nanoelectronic devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanowires: Growth, Properties, and Applications)
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23 pages, 9488 KiB  
Article
Effects of 2D/3D Urban Morphology on Cooling Effect Diffusion of Urban Rivers in Summer: A Case Study of Huangpu River in Shanghai
by Yuhui Wang, Shuo Sheng, Junda Huang and Yuncai Wang
Land 2025, 14(7), 1498; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14071498 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 342
Abstract
The diffusion effect of river cooling is critical for mitigating the urban heat island effect in riverside areas and for establishing an urban cooling network. River cooling effect diffusion is influenced by the two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) urban morphology of surrounding areas. [...] Read more.
The diffusion effect of river cooling is critical for mitigating the urban heat island effect in riverside areas and for establishing an urban cooling network. River cooling effect diffusion is influenced by the two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) urban morphology of surrounding areas. However, the characteristics of 2D/3D urban morphology that facilitate efficient river cooling effect diffusion remain unclear. This study establishes a technical framework to analyze river cooling effect diffusion resistance (RCDR) across different urban morphologies, using the Huangpu River waterside area in Shanghai as a case study. Seven urban morphology indicators, derived from both 2D and 3D dimensions, were developed to characterize the river cooling effect diffusion resistance. The relative contributions and marginal effects were analyzed using the Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) model. The study found that (1) river cooling effect diffusion was heterogeneous, with four typical patterns; (2) the Landscape Shape Index (LSI) and Blue-green Space Ratio (BGR) significantly impacted cooling effect diffusion; and (3) optimal cooling effect diffusion occurred when the blue-green space occupancy ratio exceeded 20% and building density ranged from 0.1 to 0.3. This study’s technical framework offers a new perspective on river cooling effect diffusion and heat island mitigation in riverside spaces, with significant practical value and potential for broader application. Full article
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15 pages, 918 KiB  
Article
Effects of Conservation Tillage and Nitrogen Management on Yield, Grain Quality, and Weed Infestation in Winter Wheat
by Željko Dolijanović, Svetlana Roljević Nikolić, Srdjan Šeremešić, Danijel Jug, Milena Biljić, Stanka Pešić and Dušan Kovačević
Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1742; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071742 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 285
Abstract
Choosing appropriate tillage methods and nitrogen application are important steps in the management of wheat production for obtaining high-yield and high-quality products, as well as managing the level of weed infestation. The aim of this research was to examine the impacts of three [...] Read more.
Choosing appropriate tillage methods and nitrogen application are important steps in the management of wheat production for obtaining high-yield and high-quality products, as well as managing the level of weed infestation. The aim of this research was to examine the impacts of three different tillage practices (conventional tillage—CT, mulch tillage—MT, and no tillage—NT), and two top dressing fertilization nitrogen levels (rational—60 kg ha−1 and high—120 kg ha−1) on the grain yield and quality of winter wheat, as well as on weed infestation. The present study was carried out in field experiments on chernozem luvic type soil at the Faculty of Agriculture Belgrade-Zemun Experimental field trial “Radmilovac”, in the growing seasons of 2020/2021–2022/2023. The C/N ratio in the soil was also assessed on all plots. The results showed that the number of weeds and their fresh and air-dry weights were higher on the MT and NT plots, compared to the CT plots. Therefore, the CT system has better effects on the yield (5.91 and 5.36 t ha−1) and the protein content (13.3 and 13.1%). Furthermore, the grain weight per spike and the 1000-grain weight were higher in the wheat from the CT system (41.83 and 42.75 g) than from the MT (40.34 and 41.49 g) and NT (40.26 and 41.08 g) systems. Also, the crops from the CT system had higher values of grain density and grain uniformity compared to the crop from the MT and NT systems. Fertilization with a high nitrogen level (120 kg ha−1) causes higher grain yield and more weediness compared with the rational level (60 kg ha−1). Top dressing fertilization in each tillage system resulted in an increase in the number of weeds, but, at the same time, it also resulted in stronger competitive ability of the wheat crop against weeds. The most favorable C/N ratio occurred on the NT plots, and the least beneficial one on the CT ones. A correlation analysis showed strong negative correlations of number (r = −0.82) and fresh weed mass (r = −0.72) with yield. It is concluded that the conventional tillage practice with a low nitrogen dose manifests its superior performance in minimizing weed infestation and maximizing crop productivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Innovative Cropping Systems)
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