Continued Expansion Research Articles

Addressing Urban Sprawl: is Densification the Solution? A Case Study of Sétif, Algeria

Objectives: The rapid and uncontrolled urban growth in Sétif, northeastern Algeria, has resulted in horizontal densification, continual expansion, and the conversion of agricultural land into urban areas. This transformation highlights the need for effective territorial strategies to manage urban growth sustainably. The primary objective of this study is to promote urban densification through concepts like "inward urbanisation" and "building the city within the city," aiming to optimise land use and counter the negative impacts of urban sprawl. Methods: To address the challenges of urban sprawl and its environmental impacts, the study employs a morphological approach. A Geographic Information System (GIS) is utilised in conjunction with data from the General Census of Population and Housing (RGPH) to analyse spatiotemporal changes in Sétif. This methodological approach enables a detailed examination of the city's morphological and demographic evolution, providing insights into patterns of urban expansion and densification. Results: The findings reveal various strategies for urban development in Sétif, focusing on alternatives to traditional urban density and sprawl. The study identifies and suggests the implementation of new, dense, and hybrid urban forms that align with sustainable development goals. These urban forms are designed to enhance the city’s livability while respecting societal needs and environmental considerations. The strategies proposed address the necessity for adaptable urban designs that support a more compact, resource-efficient city model. Conclusion: This research underscores the importance of rethinking urban planning strategies to manage rapid urbanisation in Sétif. The proposed strategies are essential for transforming Sétif into a dense, sustainable, and appealing urban environment. The study advocates for a shift from expansive urban growth to a densification model that promotes sustainability and aligns with the evolving expectations of the city’s residents.

Two-Stage Locating and Capacity Optimization Model for the Ultra-High-Voltage DC Receiving End Considering Carbon Emission Trading and Renewable Energy Time-Series Output Reconstruction

With the load center’s continuous expansion and development of the AC power grid’s scale and construction, the recipient grid under the multi-feed DC environment is facing severe challenges of DC commutation failure and bipolar blocking due to the high strength of AC-DC coupling and the low level of system inertia, which brings many complexities and uncertainties to economic scheduling. In addition, the large-scale grid integration of wind power, photovoltaic, and other intermittent energy sources makes the ultra-high-voltage (UHV) DC channel operation state randomized. The deterministic scenario-based timing power simulation is no longer suitable for the current complex and changeable grid operation state. In this paper, we first start with the description and analysis of the uncertainty in renewable energy (RE) sources, such as wind and solar, and reconstruct the time-sequence power model by using the stochastic differential equation model. Then, a carbon emission trading cost (CET) model is constructed based on the CET mechanism, and the two-stage locating and capacity optimization model for the UHV DC receiving end is proposed under the constraint of dispatch safety and stability. Among them, the first stage starts with the objective of maximizing the carrying capacity of the UHV DC receiving end grid; the second stage checks its dynamic safety under the basic and fault modes according to the results of the first stage and corrects the drop point and capacity of the UHV DC line with the objective of achieving safe and stable UHV DC operation at the lowest economic investment. In addition, the two-stage model innovatively proposes UHV DC relative inertia constraints, peak adjustment margin constraints, transient voltage support constraints under commutation failure conditions, and frequency support constraints under a DC blocking state. In addition, to address the problem that the probabilistic constraints of the scheduling model are difficult to solve, the discrete step-size transformation and convolution sequence operation methods are proposed to transform the chance-constrained planning into mixed-integer linear planning for solving. Finally, the proposed model is validated with a UHV DC channel in 2023, and the results confirm the feasibility and effectiveness of the model.

Progress and Hotspot Analysis of Bibliometric-Based Research on Agricultural Irrigation Patterns on Non-Point Pollution

With the constant advancement of irrigation technology and the continuous expansion of irrigation areas, non-point source pollution (NPS) caused by agricultural activities has posed a persistent threat to ecosystems and biological safety. Against this backdrop, it is imperative to lay scientific foundations for green, sustainable, and high-quality agricultural development through a thorough review of the relevant research progress. In this study, bibliometric methods are adopted to comprehensively analyze and visualize the current state and key literature on agricultural irrigation and NPS pollution from 2010 to July 2024. The focus of this study is specifically on summarizing the research hotspots and development trends of different irrigation methods and the mechanisms behind their impacts on NPS pollution. The results indicate that publications from the United States and China account for 63.8% of the total, but the fragmentation of research efforts remains, suggesting a necessity to strengthen international and regional collaboration. There are three institutions with the highest publication output, namely Northwest A&F University, Hohai University, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The subjects identified as the key areas of research on irrigation-related NPS pollution (IRR-NPS) include precision irrigation, rapid water pollution response, spatiotemporal management, interdisciplinary integration, wastewater treatment, and crop models. Regarding future research, it is necessary to focus attention on real-time precision irrigation, standardized crop models, data accuracy, spatiotemporal pollution coordination, pollution purification technology development, interdisciplinary integrated governance, and the innovative applications of soil improvement technologies. In addition to offering theoretical support and practical guidance for the management of agricultural NPS pollution, this study also provides management and technical support for policymakers, which is beneficial for advancing agricultural irrigation technology and environmental preservation.

Predicting the Impact of Climate Change on Corylus Species Distribution in China: Integrating Climatic, Topographic, and Anthropogenic Factors.

This study investigates the impact of climate change on the distribution of Corylus species in China using the MaxEnt model. Key environmental variables, such as Bio6 (mean temperature of the coldest month) and human footprint, emerged as significant determinants of habitat suitability. The study reveals substantial shifts in suitable habitats due to global warming and increased precipitation, with notable expansion towards higher latitudes. Species like Corylus heterophylla Fisch. ex Bess. and Corylus mandshurica Maxim. demonstrate resilience in extreme conditions, highlighting the importance of specific ecological traits for conservation. Future projections under various SSP scenarios predict continued habitat expansion, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation strategies to address the critical role of human activities. This research highlights the complex interplay between climatic, topographic, and anthropogenic factors in shaping Corylus habitats, advocating for integrated adaptive management approaches to ensure their sustainability amid ongoing climate change.

Anthropogenic Effects on Green Infrastructure Spatial Patterns in Kisangani City and Its Urban–Rural Gradient

Urban and peri-urban expansion significantly influences the spatial pattern of cities and surrounding zones. This study examines the spatial changes in green infrastructure components, specifically focusing on mature forests, short forests, and agricultural and grass lands from 1986 to 2021, using satellite imagery. Two landscape ecology indexes, the percentage of landscape (PLAND), and the largest patch index (LPI), were applied. PLAND provides insights into the proportion of habitat types, capturing overall extent, while LPI elucidates their spatial configuration. The research is conducted in a specific context of increasing urbanization and peri-urbanization in Kisangani city, DR Congo. The findings reveal a decline in both mature and short forests, respectively, from 1986 to 2021, and from 2006 to 2021 alongside a continuous expansion of agricultural and grass lands at the landscape scale. Moreover, the spatial pattern of mature and short forests exhibited significant variations across urban, peri-urban, and rural zones. In the context of 2021, in urban and peri-urban zones, mature forests account for less than 1% of the 2.25 km2 plots, against more than 35% in certain rural plots. Similarly, larger patches of mature forest in urban and peri-urban zones cover less than 0.5% of the 2.25 km2 plots, whereas they exceed 20% in rural zones. From 1986 to 2021, both mature and short forests experienced significant decline and fragmentation, particularly in urban and peri-urban zones, while agricultural and grass lands increased significantly in peri-urban and rural zones. These results raise concerns regarding the functions, services, and opportunities provided by mature and short forests in the context of global change. They also highlight the need for urban planning in Kisangani to prioritize green infrastructure preservation, focusing on maintaining forest connectivity and preventing further fragmentation. Policies should promote sustainable land use in peri-urban zones to achieve a balance between urban expansion and the provision of essential ecosystem services, thereby enhancing long-term resilience.

Fractional-Order Modeling and Stochastic Dynamics Analysis of a Nonlinear Rubbing Overhung Rotor System

To study the nonlinear dynamic behavior and system stability of a rubbing overhung rotor with viscoelastic and memory-effect damping and random uncertain parameters, this paper introduces a fractional-order modeling and stochastic dynamic analysis method for the nonlinear overhung rotor system with frictional impact faults. Firstly, the dynamic equations of the overhung rotor considering friction effect and fractional damping effect are established based on the transfer matrix method and fractional order derivative. Then, the time-domain response of the fractional-order dynamic equations is solved by combining the Runge–Kutta method and the continuous fractional expansion, and the steady-state response characteristics of different fractional damping are analyzed in the deterministic case. Finally, to analyze the response of the system under the effect of stochastic parameters, the sparse grid-based PCE metamodel of the system response is developed. Statistical moments, probability distributions, and sensitivity indices of the response of stochastic systems are revealed. The results of this paper provide a theoretical basis for efficient and accurate prediction of the stochastic response of nonlinear rubbing overhung rotor systems.

Pharmacists in global primary healthcare systems: A comprehensive model for community health empowerment

Pharmacists play an increasingly important role in global primary healthcare systems, evolving from traditional dispensers to active participants in patient-centered care. This paper advocates for the stronger integration of pharmacists into healthcare teams to improve patient outcomes, medication adherence, and overall healthcare delivery. Through a comprehensive review, we examine the evolving role of pharmacists, the key challenges to their full integration, and the substantial opportunities they present, particularly in managing chronic diseases, providing preventative care, and enhancing patient education. We propose a model for empowering pharmacists to contribute more effectively to community health, especially in underserved areas. The paper also highlights the potential global impact of pharmacists in reducing healthcare costs, improving disease management, and promoting public health initiatives. Lastly, recommendations for future policy reforms, education enhancements, and research directions are offered to support the continued expansion of pharmacists' roles in primary healthcare systems worldwide.

Multimodal Operation Data Mining for Grid Operation Violation Risk Prediction

With the continuous expansion of the power grid, the issue of operational safety has attracted increasing attention. In power grid operation control, unauthorized operations are one of the primary causes of personal accidents. Therefore, preventing and monitoring unauthorized actions by power grid operators is of critical importance. First, multimodal violation data are integrated through information systems, such as the power grid management platform, to construct a historical case database. Next, word vectors for three types of operation-related factors are generated using natural language processing techniques, and key vectors are selected based on generalized correlation coefficients using mutual information, enabling effective dimensionality reduction. Independent component analysis is then employed for feature extraction and further dimensionality reduction, allowing for the effective characterization of operational scenarios. For each historical case, a risk score is derived from a violation risk prediction model constructed using the Random Forests (RF) algorithm. When a high-risk score is identified, the K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) algorithm is applied to locate similar scenarios in the historical case database where violations may have occurred. Real-time violation risk assessment is performed for each operation, providing early warnings to operators, thereby reducing the likelihood of violations, and enhancing the safety of power grid operations.

Generic Diagramming Platform (GDP): a comprehensive database of high-quality biomedical graphics.

High-quality schematic illustrations are fundamental to the publication of scientific achievements in biomedical research, which are crucial for effectively conveying complex biomedical concepts. However, creating such illustrations remains challenging for many researchers due to the need to devote a significant amount of time and effort to accomplish it. To address this need, we present the Generic Diagramming Platform (GDP, https://BioGDP.com), a comprehensive database of professionally crafted biomedical graphics (bio-graphics). Currently, GDP houses 7 562 high-quality bio-graphics, meticulously categorized into 10 major and 77 minor categories. To increase the design efficiency, GDP provides 204 customizable templates derived from an extensive review of over 2000 literature and 7 textbooks. With the interactive drawing platform and user-friendly web interface implemented in GDP, these resources can facilitate the efficient generation of publication-ready illustrations for the biomedical community. Additionally, GDP incorporates a collaborative submission system, allowing researchers to contribute their artwork, fostering a growing diagramming ecosystem, and ensuring continuous database expansion. Overall, we believe that GDP will serve as an invaluable platform, significantly enhancing the efficiency and quality of scientific illustration for biomedical researchers.

Study on the strength influence mechanism and cracking mechanism of stone powder-cement floor grouting materials

Underground grouting is a concealed project, and it is difficult to test the strength of grouting stones in engineering practice. Aiming at the problems of high confined water pressure and strong water-richness of the roadway floor, a pressure filtration test device was developed, and a PFC2D uniaxial compression model was established to study the variation law of stone strength and crack evolution mechanism of grouting materials under different grouting pressures. The results show that with the increase of pressure filtration value, the amount of slurry dehydration increases, the pore water pressure dissipates, the pores between particles are tightly compressed, the contact force between particle skeletons increases, and the strength of stone body increases. Under the condition of the same cement powder ratio (mass ratio of cement to stone powder) or stone powder particle size, the strength of stone body of stone powder-cement grouting material increases with the increase of pressure filtration value. The stress-strain curves of the stone body with different pressure filtration values all experienced three stages: continuous elasticity, fracture expansion and strength failure. Before the peak, the number of cracks increases slowly; after reaching the peak, the micro-cracks extend rapidly and the number increases rapidly, resulting in the final tensile failure of the specimen. This study can provide a basis for the selection of grouting engineering material ratio and grouting pressure parameters.

A Heuristic Attribute-Reduction Algorithm Based on Conditional Entropy for Incomplete Information Systems

With the continuous expansion of databases, the extraction of information has been an urgent research topic in many fields. As an effective method to remove redundant attributes, attribute reduction demonstrates extraordinary ability in simplifying information systems. This paper applies a novel form of conditional entropy to investigate the attribute reduction in incomplete information systems. Firstly, a novel definition of conditional entropy is introduced based on tolerance relation. Additionally, in order to reduce time complexity, we propose a binsearch heuristic attribute-reduction algorithm with conditional entropy as heuristic knowledge. Furthermore, two examples are used to illustrate the feasibility and validity of the reduction algorithm.

The landscape of RNA binding proteins in mammalian spermatogenesis.

Despite continuous expansion of the RNA binding protein (RBP) world, there is a lack of systematic understanding of RBPs in the mammalian testis, which harbors one of the most complex tissue transcriptomes. We adapted RNA interactome capture to mouse male germ cells, building an RBP atlas characterized by multiple layers of dynamics along spermatogenesis. Trapping of RNA-cross-linked peptides showed that the glutamic acid-arginine (ER) patch, a residue-coevolved polyampholytic element present in coiled coils, enhances RNA binding of its host RBPs. Deletion of this element in NONO (non-POU domain-containing octamer-binding protein) led to a defective mitosis-to-meiosis transition due to compromised NONO-RNA interactions. Whole-exome sequencing of over 1000 infertile men revealed a prominent role of RBPs in the human genetic architecture of male infertility and identified risk ER patch variants.

Transcendence and Normality of Complex Numbers via Hurwitz Continued Fractions

Abstract We study the topological, dynamical, and descriptive set-theoretic properties of Hurwitz continued fractions. Hurwitz continued fractions associate an infinite sequence of Gaussian integers to every complex number that is not a Gaussian rational. The resulting space of sequences of Gaussian integers $\Omega $ is not closed. Using an iterative procedure, we show that $\Omega $ contains a natural subset whose closure $\overline{\textsf{R}}$ encodes continued fraction expansions of complex numbers that are not Gaussian rationals. We prove that $(\overline{\textsf{R}}, \sigma )$ is a subshift with a feeble specification property. As an application, we determine the rank in the Borel hierarchy of the set of Hurwitz normal numbers with respect to the complex Gauss measure. We also construct a family of complex transcendental numbers with bounded partial quotients.

Increased precipitation has not enhanced the carbon sequestration of afforestation in Northwest China

Concerns have been raised about the sustainability of large-scale afforestation in semi-arid regions due to potential water constraints. This study investigated whether increased humidity in the semi-arid regions of northwest China could sustain the continued expansion of afforestation efforts. Using multi-source remote sensing data, we found that between 2012 to 2020, annual cumulative precipitation increased by 2.5 millimeters per year, while annual average carbon sequestration in afforested areas declined by 0.002 kilograms of carbon per square meter per year, indicating asynchronous trends. This disparity was primarily attributed to the trade-off between vegetation photosynthesis and transpiration in response to external water conditions, which led to a decline in the water use efficiency of afforested vegetation. The effect of water use efficiency on carbon sequestration was driven by gross primary productivity, rather than evapotranspiration. These findings underscore the importance of targeted afforestation in semi-arid regions, considering local water resource sustainability.

Comparing The Effectiveness Of Multiple-Answer And Single-Answer Multiple-Choice Questions In Assessing Student Learning

ABSTRACT Driven by technological innovations, continuous digital expansion has transformed fundamentally the landscape of modern higher education, leading to discussions about evaluation techniques. The emergence of generative artificial intelligence raises questions about reliability and academic honesty regarding multiple-choice assessments in online education. In this context, this study investigates multiple-answer questions (MAQs) versus traditional single-answer questions (SAQs) in online higher-education assessments. A mixed-methods study involving quantitative field experiments and qualitative interviews was conducted with students enrolled in an online Marketing M.Sc. program. The students were divided randomly and assessed using either SAQs or MAQs, and the impacts on test performance of variables such as grade averages, study times, perceived workload, and difficulty were evaluated using independent-sample t-tests and ordinary least-squares regression analysis. The results show that although grades were lower and MAQs were perceived as being more difficult, study times and perceived workload did not differ significantly between the two formats. These findings suggest that despite their challenge, MAQs can promote deeper understanding and greater learning retention. Furthermore, even with their higher perceived difficulty and impact on performance, MAQs hold potential for dealing with academic-integrity concerns related to artificial intelligence.

A Simulation-Based Prediction of Land Use Change Impacts on Carbon Storage from a Regional Imbalance Perspective: A Case Study of Hunan Province, China

Land use imbalances are a critical driving factor contributing to regional disparities in carbon storage (CS). As a significant component of China’s Yangtze River Economic Belt, Hunan Province has undergone substantial shifts in land use types, resulting in an uneven distribution of ecosystem CS and sequestration capacity. Therefore, within the framework of the “dual carbon” strategy, examining the effects of land use changes driven by regional resource imbalances on CS holds practical importance for advancing regional sustainable development. This study focuses on Hunan Province, utilizing the PLUS-InVEST model to assess the spatiotemporal evolution of CS under land use changes from 1990 to 2020. Additionally, multiple scenario-based development modes were employed to predict county-level CS. The results indicate the following: (1) From 1990 to 2020, Hunan Province experienced continuous urban expansion, with forest land and cultivated land, which are core ecological land types, being converted into construction land. (2) Over these 30 years, the province’s total CS increased by 2.47 × 108 t, with significant spatial differentiation. High-value zones were concentrated in bands along the province’s borders, while lower values were observed in the central and northern regions. The highest CS values were recorded in forested areas at the province’s periphery, whereas the lowest values were observed in the northern water bodies. (3) The scenario-based predictions revealed notable differences, with the ecological protection scenario demonstrating a substantial carbon sink effect. By prioritizing forest and cultivated land, CS could be maximized. This research provides valuable insights for enhancing CS and optimizing land use structures in regions facing resource imbalances.

No Evolution Without Revolution: Historical Revelations for LIS Education

As the field evolves and adapts to emerging technologies and societal changes, the rich historical context and radical changes that have shaped libraries and information systems risks being overshadowed. This SIG panel presentation will feature presentations ranging from understanding the role of caucuses in the LIS field, using creative storytelling to illuminate LIS history, and how AI will impact our ability to tell, know, and make history. Following the presentations, we expect to have a conversation about how we preserve and share LIS history in the face of technological change. National Associations of Librarians of Color Provides Historical Context to Teach Social Justice Work - Long Before DEI and social justice were integrated into statements, core principles, standards, or competencies for LIS education, there were efforts conducted by BIPOC library leaders who moved the needle in the profession by establishing professional associations that represented their communities. This presentation makes the connection between diversity efforts in LIS history and LIS pedagogy, by proposing the use of the specific historical context of social movements to substantiate and inform the social justice work that current LIS graduates will encounter. Demystifying the Past to Examine the Present and Shape the Future: Historical Research and Creative Storytelling in LIS Education - Ely-Ledesma Unpacking the complicated history of libraries in the United States, and recognizing historical threads that connect past to present, is vital as the profession continually adapts to emerging technologies and societal changes. When considering implementing historical perspectives into LIS education, we must ask a basic question: How can we infuse historical perspectives into LIS courses in an effective way? Historical research and creative storytelling are one way to address this question. To this end, I propose a three-step process for a project suitable for foundational courses or courses on library history. Teaching the History and the Evolution of the Information and Knowledge Profession - Hawamdeh According to Marcus Garvey “A person without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots." Understanding the LIS history, evolution and the radical changes is a key to the continued transformation of the information and knowledge profession. The continued expansion, evolution, and the emergence of concepts such as knowledge management, data science and generative AI are raising questions like how these concepts are related to LIS, how can they be woven into LIS curriculum, and how historical perspectives can be used to shape the future of the information and knowledge profession.

Our Exploration of Countermeasures against the Abuse of Unilateral Sanctions by the United States

Currently, the international landscape is undergoing changes, with unilateralism on the rise. Of which, economic sanctions are the most common form. Due to the lack of effective specialized international rules in the current international rule system, unilateral sanctions are increasingly frequently used by individual countries. The abuse of unilateral sanctions has impacted the normal operation of international mechanisms. Unilateral sanctions were originally used in a country’s domestic law, but now some countries, such as the United States, expand their own laws’ extraterritorial application through the continuous expansion of connection points, thereby giving their sanctions against foreign entities a cloak of legitimacy, which goes against the principles of international law and the basic norms of international relations (Bai, 2018). From a legal perspective, the implementation of illegal unilateral sanctions is achieved through the improper interpretation and application of international treaty exception clauses. From international custom, unilateral sanctions beyond countermeasures refer to those imposed by states other than the injured state, who deliberately legalize countermeasures related to sanctions, which greatly contributes to the abuse of unilateral sanctions. In this context, China should accelerate the construction of its anti-sanctions legal system to effectively counter the threats and damages caused by unilateral sanctions and firmly safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests.

Using Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) in UAS development

In the dynamic world of aeronautical technology, the development of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) is an area of continuous expansion and innovation. Technological progress in this sector can be measured by the Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) Scale, which provides a standardized framework for assessing the technological maturity of a product or system. The TRL scale is widely used in industry and research to guide the systematic development of new technologies from concept and initial research to operational implementation and commercialization. This scale can also be successfully used in the research, development, and deployment of an uncrewed aircraft system.

Factors Influencing Consumers' Brand Loyalty to Chinese Tea Drinks in Bangkok, Thailand

Tea drinks have always been a consumer favorite beverage because of the variety of product types that appeal to a wide customer base. In recent years, with the continuous expansion of China’s beverage market, some brands are looking to expand into overseas markets. They determine the brand’s overseas development strategy by investigating the factors that impact consumer brand loyalty to identify the local target market and group. This study investigates the impact of demographic factors, consumer perception in 7ps, and consumer satisfaction on brand loyalty. An online questionnaire was used to survey Chinese tea drink consumers who lived in Bangkok for over a month. Four hundred valid data were selected and analyzed using SPSS software. The research results show that most consumers will have different degrees of consumer brand loyalty based on consumer perception of the 7ps and consumer satisfaction. Products incorporating cultural attributes were found to be more attractive to consumers. Each of these factors, demographic, consumer satisfaction, and consumer perception in 7ps, impact consumer brand loyalty. Keywords: tea consumers, consumers brand loyalty, thailand, chinese tea drink