Rapid Expansion Research Articles

100 years of autoclaved aerated concrete

Autoclaved Aerated Concrete [AAC], a revolution in thermal insulation and energy-efficient construction, was invented by Dr Axel Eriksson in Sweden in 1923. He developed a process for curing a special mixture of lime, metal powder, and a substance containing silica. The resulting steam-cured concrete had good thermal insulation, relatively high strength, high fire resistance, and could be produced economically. Carl August Carlén, who ran a family business, was granted a license to produce AAC in 1928. After a successful introduction in Sweden, AAC production became international in 1937. The use of license systems allowed third companies to invest in AAC, leading to rapid international expansion. Germany and Poland became leading centres of expertise and allowed AAC to expand on a global scale. As we approach the era of regulatory measures to meet Europe’s climate change targets AAC plays a significant role. This article presents the history and development of autoclaved aerated concrete over the last 100 years. The most important issues concerning the standardization of the production and use of autoclaved aerated concrete are also discussed.

Analog Sequential Hippocampal Memory Model for Trajectory Learning and Recalling: A Robustness Analysis Overview

The rapid expansion of information systems in all areas of society demands more powerful, efficient, and low‐energy consumption computing systems. Neuromorphic engineering has emerged as a solution that attempts to mimic the brain to incorporate its capabilities to solve complex problems in a computationally and energy‐efficient way in real time. Within neuromorphic computing, building systems to efficiently store the information is still a challenge. Among all the brain regions, the hippocampus stands out as a short‐term memory capable of learning and recalling large amounts of information quickly and efficiently. Herein, a spike‐based bio‐inspired hippocampus sequential memory model is proposed that makes use of the benefits of analog computing and spiking neural networks (SNNs): noise robustness, improved real‐time operation, and energy efficiency. This model is applied to robotic navigation to learn and recall trajectories that lead to a goal position within a known grid environment. The model is implemented on the special‐purpose SNNs mixed‐signal DYNAP‐SE hardware platform. Through extensive experimentation together with an extensive analysis of the model's behavior in the presence of external noise sources, its correct functioning is demonstrated, proving the robustness and consistency of the proposed neuromorphic sequential memory system.

RANCANG BANGUN UI/UX APLIKASI E-COMMERCE BERBASIS FRAMEWORK CODEIGNITER MENGGUNAKAN MODEL LEAN USER EXPERIENCE

In today's era, some people require more specialized marketplaces for selling items such as driving equipment or automotive-related products. Individuals need consignment services to sell their driving gear like helmets, driving jackets, and other related items. Many people face difficulties in finding suitable and secure storage spaces for their belongings. This study explores the rapid expansion of internet usage, which has spurred the emergence of new business models, notably online marketplaces for buying and selling goods. The research focuses on developing a simple yet effective online store platform, particularly tailored for sellers at the Indonesian Helmet Shop. Employing the prototype method, this research constructs the application through various modeling techniques including use case diagrams, class diagrams, activity diagrams, and sequence diagrams. The primary objective is to create a lightweight, web-based marketplace application that enhances the transaction process between consignment providers and consumers. Preliminary findings suggest that the application facilitates efficient user interactions and transactions. However, further development is required in the areas of user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) to ensure greater consumer satisfaction and engagement. This study underscores the potential of tailored digital solutions in optimizing e-commerce platforms, particularly in specialized market sectors.

Edge Computing and Cloud Computing for Internet of Things: A Review

The rapid expansion of the Internet of Things ecosystem has created an urgent need for efficient data processing and analysis technologies. This review aims to systematically examine and compare edge computing, cloud computing, and hybrid architectures, focusing on their applications within IoT environments. The methodology involved a comprehensive search and analysis of peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and industry reports, highlighting recent advancements in computing technologies for IoT. Key findings reveal that edge computing excels in reducing latency and enhancing data privacy through localized processing, while cloud computing offers superior scalability and flexibility. Hybrid approaches, such as fog and mist computing, present a promising solution by combining the strengths of both edge and cloud systems. These hybrid models optimize bandwidth use and support low-latency, privacy-sensitive applications in IoT ecosystems. Hybrid architectures are identified as particularly effective for scenarios requiring efficient bandwidth management and low-latency processing. These models represent a significant step forward in addressing the limitations of both edge and cloud computing for IoT, offering a balanced approach to data analysis and resource management.

바이오디자인의 변화와 확장 가능성 고찰 - 최근 5년간의 변화에 한정하여

Bio-design is evolving into a significant field of design under the paradigm of sustainability. The methods and types of design in this field are diverse, ranging from designs that utilize scientific knowledge and technologies from biology, to those that adhere to traditional, handcrafted methods using local materials or involving communities. Particularly, there is a wide and rapid expansion of attempts to harness new materials derived from organisms like plants and animals, as well as to apply natural structures, systems, and processes. Now, it is time to address the challenges of moving to the next stage. To this end, this study examines the current trends and future tasks for the expansion of bio-design by synthesizing case analyses of recent changes in the field and the content derived from interviews with experts in this domain. The results of the study reveal various issues and challenges, including the exploration of bio-design as an alternative in daily life beyond mere aesthetics, the initiation of mass production attempts, the emphasis on the meaning or value of design rather than the novelty of materials, the need for government or corporate-driven development, and the necessity for serious consideration of functionality and utility beyond stylistic aspects. This study aims to serve as a foundation for future discussions to ensure that bio-design continues to fulfill its role within the design industry and solidifies its position as a significant branch of industrial design.

Quantifying the Ecological Performance of Migratory Bird Conservation: Evidence from Poyang Lake Wetlands in China.

Protected areas are essential for the conservation of biodiversity. However, the rapid expansion of urbanization and the intensification of human activities have significantly disrupted environmental integrity, leading to a continuous deterioration in both the quantity and quality of large ecological patches. This has further diminished the connectivity among ecological patches, leading to significant consequences for regional biodiversity conservation. Taking Poyang Lake as a case study, which serves as a crucial wintering habitat for migratory birds along the East Asia-Australasia flyway, this research employs ArcMap technology. It considers various factors including land use type, slope, and elevation to evaluate habitat quality and degradation through the application of the InVEST model. Additionally, the study utilizes the minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) model alongside circuit theory to delineate ecological corridors within the area and to establish a comprehensive ecological network system. The research results in this paper are as follows. (i) During the period from 2000 to 2020, there was an overall decline in habitat quality within the study area, indicating a clear trend of habitat degradation. However, it is worth noting that there was an increase in habitat quality in certain local areas within the protected area. (ii) The ecological resistance values in the core area of the migratory bird reserve in Poyang Lake are generally low. However, the ecological resistance values of the habitats have shown a consistent increase from 2000 to 2020. Additionally, there has been a significant decrease in the density of ecological corridors during this time period. (iii) Over the period from 2000 to 2020, both the number and connectivity of ecological corridors decreased and their integrity and functionality degraded. Consequently, this weakened role of the ecological network has had implications for maintaining regional biodiversity and ecosystem service functions. The findings indicate two conclusions. (i) Ecological connectivity is essential for the conservation of migratory bird habitats. Strengthening control measures aimed at expanding ecological corridors can effectively safeguard flagship and umbrella species, thereby promoting biodiversity conservation. (ii) The establishment of ecological corridors can help reconcile conflicts between conservation efforts and development objectives. This reconciliation carries significant theoretical implications for fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and birds in Poyang Lake's migratory bird sanctuary.

Research on Chinas Economic and Trade Pattern under the Internet Technology Era

In the era of the Internet, Chinas economic and trade models have undergone profound and transformative changes, reshaping the landscape of global commerce. This paper aims to explore the critical role that internet technology has played in driving Chinas economic development while also delving into the future directions and possibilities for further growth. By focusing on Alibaba and JD.com as primary case studies, the paper examines how these industry leaders have leveraged advanced technologies such as cloud computing, cross-border e-commerce, and electronic logistics to revolutionize their operations and expand their global reach. The study not only highlights their innovative approaches and development experiences but also addresses the societal challenges that have emerged or been exacerbated by the rapid expansion of internet technology. Understanding these challenges is essential for formulating strategies to mitigate their impact and ensure long-term, sustainable growth. The significance of this research lies in its potential to provide valuable insights and practical references for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China. By learning from the successes and challenges of leading enterprises, SMEs can navigate the complexities of the Internet era more effectively, contributing to the sustainable and healthy development of Chinas economy in an increasingly digital world.

The Economic Impact of High-Speed Rail Development in the Pearl River Delta: A Case Study of Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link

The rapid expansion of high-speed rail (HSR) has become a crucial element of infrastructure, markedly improving regional connectivity and economic integration. This study centers on the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link (XRL), a pivotal project that connects major cities within the Pearl River Delta (PRD) and links Hong Kong to mainland China. The analysis demonstrates that while the XRL has stimulated economic growth by facilitating inter-regional exchanges, it has also presented challenges to local vulnerable sectors, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These challenges stem from heightened competition due to industrial agglomeration. To mitigate these effects, the study proposes enhancing regional economic cooperation by establishing specialized economic zones and developing cross-border trade networks. These strategies aim to capitalize on the benefits of the XRL while enabling SMEs to access new markets and boost their competitiveness. The research underscores the importance of strategically leveraging infrastructure projects like the XRL to promote sustainable economic growth, offering a framework for addressing potential drawbacks.

The Perniciousness and Promise of School-Based Mental Health Service Delivery for Youth.

Rates of child and adolescent mental disorder have risen sharply while access to community-based mental health care options continues to be elusive for many families. Substantial and persistent barriers to community-based mental health care have prompted multiple stakeholders to pursue an approach that emphasizes health promotion and intervention practices within the context of ecologically valid and more accessible environments. The most prominent of these environments has been schools that can serve as local and centralized access points to various services, including mental health care. The rapid expansion of school-based mental health service delivery systems, however, carries both risk of perniciousness as well as significant promise with respect to effective and equitable care. This article summarizes key concerns surrounding school-based mental health service delivery systems, including non-beneficence and harm, support disparities, unsustainable implementation, oppressive school climate, and linkage to punitive and discriminatory practices. Broad-based recommendations to help realize the promise of effective and equitable care for students with mental health and behavioral challenges are also presented vis-à-vis each of these concerns. At the same time, natural tensions between various mandates assigned to schools as well as between schools and their surrounding communities will need to be addressed to reach the full potential of school-based mental health service delivery systems.

A Comprehensive Review of Large Language Models in Cyber Security.

In response to the escalating complexity of cyber threats and the rapid expansion of digital environments, traditional detection models are proving increasingly inadequate. The advent of Large Language Models (LLMs) powered by Natural Language Processing (NLP) represents a transformative advancement in cyber security. This review explores the burgeoning landscape of LLM applications in cyber security, highlighting their significant potential across various threat detection domains. Recent advancements have demonstrated LLMs' efficacy in enhancing tasks such as cyber threat intelligence, phishing detection, anomaly detection through log analysis, and more. By synthesizing recent literature, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of how LLMs are reshaping cyber security frameworks. It also discusses current challenges and future directions, aiming to guide researchers and practitioners in leveraging LLMs effectively to fortify digital defences and mitigate evolving cyber threats

Evaluating the Sufficiency of the data protection act 2023 in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI): A comparative case study of Nigeria and the USA

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) has become a pivotal force in shaping modern society, drawing comparisons to the tech boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s. With AI applications ranging from military and defence systems to corporate tools and household devices, its transformative potential is undeniable. This paper examines the development and regulation of AI on a global scale, focusing on the legislative frameworks in Nigeria and the USA. Specifically, it evaluates the sufficiency of Nigeria's Data Protection Act 2023 in addressing the unique challenges posed by AI. By comparing Nigeria’s approach with that of the USA, the paper highlights key regulatory gaps, the distinction between AI and robotics, and the importance of establishing a legal personality for AI systems. The comparative analysis offers insights into how both countries are preparing for the future of AI, emphasizing the need for early legal intervention to ensure safe and ethical AI integration. Recommendations are provided for policymakers to strengthen regulatory mechanisms in both nations, ensuring they are equipped to handle the rapid evolution of AI technology.

The Sustainable Development Trend, Progress and Challenge of Solar Cells

The current development of solar cells indicates that this field is experiencing rapid technological progress and market expansion. Various types of solar cells, from traditional silicon-based ones to emerging thin-film, dye-sensitized, perovskite, and organic solar cells, are constantly being developed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and meet different application needs. While silicon-based solar cells remain one of the most mainstream types on the market, researchers are exploring third-generation photovoltaic devices such as multi-junction series cells, intermediate band gap cells, multiple exciton-generating cells hot carrier cells thermal-light photovoltaic solar cells to further bolster efficiency and reduce costs. These new solar cell technologies theoretically offer higher conversion efficiency and are anticipated to replace traditional silicon-based ones in the future. Advancements in the technology of solar cells mainly involve continuous progress and innovation in materials' development structural design manufacturing processes-from early silicon-based designs to today's thin-film arrays. Each generation is developed with the goal improving efficiency lowering costs; subsequently leading to recent developments in organic and perovskite arrays currently under exploration creating a final product at a lower price. At present, current attention within development primarily lies towards material components advancement efficiency maximization. Cost reduction strategies large scale production Although faced with certain obstacles; through consistent research proving their overwhelming effectiveness; implications for widespread use suggest performance. Overall prospects within Solar energy appear limitless.

Study on the spatial distribution characteristics of traditional villages and their response to the water network system in the lower yangtze river basin

Traditional villages hold significant historical and cultural value as the precious heritage of China’s agricultural civilization. Currently, against the backdrop of increasing urbanization and rapid expansion of urban construction land, the spatial patterns of traditional villages across various regions in China are being encroached upon and damaged, with protection pressures growing daily. As one of the important cradles of Chinese civilization, the Lower Yangtze River Basin (LYRB) has traditional villages closely linked with its water systems, forming a unique human-land relationship and spatial distribution pattern. However, influenced by the rapid urbanization process, the spatial patterns of traditional villages in this region also face a crisis, and the contradiction between protection and development is becoming increasingly prominent. How to balance this contradiction and ensure the reasonable protection and sustainable development of traditional villages has become an urgent issue to address. Therefore, this study focuses on the LYRB. Using ArcGIS tools and combined with mathematical analysis methods, the spatial distribution characteristics and essential influencing factors of traditional villages in this area were screened and analyzed. The objective was to examine the spatial structural relationship between traditional villages, four water system types, and nine sub-basin units, intending to reveal the unique interdependence between the water system and traditional villages in this area. This would provide scientific support for the formulation of scientific conservation strategies. The research results show that: (1) Traditional villages in The LYRB form two core clusters spatially and exhibit substantial spatial accumulation; (2) Water system characteristics are the main factors affecting the distribution of traditional villages; (3) In the LYRB, the spatial distribution of the nine sub-basins is closely related to the spatial distribution of traditional villages, resulting in typical regional spatial differentiation of traditional villages in this area. This study is based on a watershed perspective, and the results highlight the importance of the water system network in the development of traditional villages, revealing a unique spatial dependency relationship between traditional villages and the water network in the LYRB. In order to ensure the comprehensive protection of the traditional village system in this region, it is essential to adhere to the fundamental principles that govern its spatial configuration. A tripartite collaborative protection system based on the watershed should be formulated from the perspective of the overall distribution relationship between the water network and the traditional villages. This system would serve to protect the overall landscape, the water network pattern, and the traditional villages. Establishing an overall pattern view of integrating the water system network and the traditional villages is essential.

Influence of solvent selection and RESS processing conditions on formation of a praziquantel-malonic acid cocrystal in supercritical CO2

Praziquantel (PZQ) is an anthelmintic drug with low solubility, therefore cocrystallization and particle size reduction is desirable to improve bioavailability. In this study, a PZQ-malonic acid cocrystal was micronized by rapid expansion of supercritical solution (RESS). Due to low solubility in scCO2, four cosolvents were screened as RESS modifiers. While addition of acetone or THF yielded mixtures of PZQ and its cocrystal, MeOH and EtOH produced pure cocrystal. Impact of pressure (15–30 MPa), temperature (35–55 °C), and cosolvent loading (3–10 volumes) on phase-purity, yield, and particle size were investigated. Adding cosolvent to RESS facilitated dissolution of cocrystal formers in scCO2 and crystallization of the cocrystal with yields up to 68.5 wt% and particle size as low as 600 nm. Results show that for APIs with low solubility in scCO2, cosolvent-modified RESS is a suitable approach for simultaneous crystallization and micronization.

Color Matters: A Study Exploring the Influence of Packaging Colors on University Students’ Perceptions and Willingness to Pay for Organic Pasta

The organic food market’s rapid expansion necessitates an understanding of factors influencing consumer behavior. This paper investigates the impact of packaging colors on perceptions and willingness to pay (WTP) for organic foods, utilizing an experimental auction among university students. Drawing on previous research, we explore how colors influence perceived healthiness, premiumness, trust, and sustainability. The results indicate nuanced responses to different colors, emphasizing the need for businesses to adopt tailored packaging strategies. White and green dominate organic food packaging, aligning with associations of freshness and health. However, the study uncovers varied consumer responses, suggesting a more intricate relationship between color, trust, premiumness, and healthiness perceptions. Demographic factors such as age, gender, income, and residence areas influence WTP for organic foods with different colors, emphasizing the importance of diverse consumer segments in marketing strategies. Trust and perceived premiumness significantly influence WTP, highlighting their pivotal role in consumer valuation. The results highlight that green packaging builds trust among non-organic buyers, while organic buyers are influenced by a broader range of colors that emphasize premiumness and healthiness. The study concludes that businesses in the organic food market should carefully consider color choices in branding and packaging to effectively communicate product qualities and align with consumer values.

Amplifying concerns: An exploration of community noise levels in rural communities impacted by wood pellet production

Wood pellets are increasingly promoted as a renewable and sustainable energy source, driving the global wood pellet market to a projected value of $16 billion by 2026. However, the rapid expansion of this industry disproportionately affects predominantly Black and low-income communities in the rural South, where approximately 100 pellet manufacturing plants are currently located in the United States. From August 2023 to March 2024, we conducted a noise exposure assessment in Gloster, Mississippi, a community affected by pellet production, and compared it to Mendenhall, a nearby community without industrial activity. In collaboration with a local organization, we measured noise metrics and found significantly higher A-weighted, C-weighted, and Z-weighted sound levels in Gloster, along with elevated decibels at multiple center frequencies. These findings suggest that wood pellet manufacturing can severely alter the soundscape of rural communities, raising environmental justice concerns. Our findings underscore the importance of investigating the cumulative health impacts of noise and other environmental burdens on these vulnerable communities to better inform policy.

Molecular Dynamics Simulation of PAHs Generated from Rubber Pyrolysis

The rapid expansion of the automotive industry has posed challenges for the waster tire rubber sector. Pyrolysis, as a prominent method for waster rubber treatment, inevitably produces polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which serve as precursors to dioxins and exhibit high toxicity. This study utilizes molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the thermal decomposition of rubber macromolecules and the subsequent formation of PAHs. Initially, an overall simulation of the pyrolysis process is conducted to analyze the evolution of pyrolysis products. The pyrolysis of rubber involves sequential decomposition and polymerization, with the evolutionary analysis of the decomposition products with various numbers of carbon atoms used to validate this process. Subsequently, the factors influencing PAH formation are examined and assessed. Temperature elevation enhances rubber pyrolysis, while the maturity of PAH molecules is linked to oxygen levels. The introduction of hydrogen or hydroxyl groups can partially impede PAH generation. This investigation elucidates the mechanisms governing PAH generation during rubber pyrolysis, with the goal of aiding in the effective regulation of PAHs in waster rubber pyrolysis.

Noncontact Perception of Thin-Film Transistors by the Synergy of Both Capacitive and Electrostatic Induction Mechanisms.

In recent years, the rapid expansion of research and application of the Internet of Things and wearable electronics has prompted the development of a variety of sensors to perceive physical or chemical information from both the human body and the environment, among which the proximity sensor is a kind of noncontact sensor used to detect the approach of a target and thus exhibits promising applications in human-machine interactions. Thin-film transistors are one type of key components in modern electronics and have been further developed as electrostatic-induction-type proximity sensors to perceive the approach of electrically charged objects. However, they are immune to the approach of a zero-potential object. Capacitive-induction-type proximity sensors are capable of detecting the approach of conductive targets while being less sensitive to insulated ones. Integration of both electrostatic and capacitive induction mechanisms into one proximity sensor is highly expected to broaden its perception to a variety of targets. Here, an interdigital electrode was introduced as an extended gate into an amorphous metal oxide thin-film transistor to construct proximity sensors that combine both electrostatic and capacitive induction mechanisms and therefore can sensitively perceive the approach of a variety of objects that were electrically charged, grounded, or floated. Besides proximity sensing, remote velocity measurement and positioning of an invasive object were also realized, which further extended its functions as a kind of interdigital-electrode gate transistor.

The Situation of Counterfeited and Mislabeled Commercialized Edible Mushrooms in China and the Development of Possible Controls

Edible mushroom products, encompassing both cultivated and wild varieties, are highly favored by consumers due to their rich nutritional profiles, including significant levels of proteins and amino acids. These mushrooms have extensive applications across the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, making the edible mushroom industry a vital component of global poverty alleviation efforts. Taking China as an example, the country produces over 45 million tons of edible mushrooms annually, accounting for 94.01% of the world’s total production, thereby establishing itself as the leading global producer of edible mushrooms. However, alongside the rapid expansion of this industry, concerns have emerged regarding counterfeit products and incidents of poisoning resulting from the consumption of toxic wild mushrooms. As follows, to advance the development and integrity of the mushroom production and processing industry: (1) This study presents the situation of counterfeit edible mushrooms and elucidates the factors contributing to the production of fraudulent products from both subjective and non-subjective perspectives. (2) We provide a detailed introduction to 22 varieties of freshly cultivated edible mushrooms and commonly encountered wild edible mushrooms in the Chinese consumer market, proposing the application of DNA barcoding, environmental DNA analysis, and other technologies for the future authentication of counterfeit mushroom products. (3) Concurrently, we present an overview of mushroom poisoning incidents in China from 2010 to 2023, emphasizing the challenges in mitigating the risks associated with wild mushroom consumption and preventing food poisoning, thereby necessitating heightened consumer caution. (4) Finally, we offer four recommendations aimed at ensuring the healthy, stable, and sustainable growth of the edible mushroom industry.

Examining two different models for developing teachers new to computer science: lessons from a CS4All district

Because of the rapid expansion of computer science (CS) education, educational leaders must consider how to recruit, prepare, and support teachers who typically do not have a background in CS. This study examines two professional development (PD) approaches used to introduce CS education to non-CS teachers. We aim to understand if/how each model promoted teacher agency in CS—conceptualized as the interactions between individual teacher confidence and broader conditions of support and constraints. Drawing on both survey data and qualitative data, we found that teachers who participated in a curriculum-based PD benefited from more practical applications of CS versus focusing on the theoretical principles of CS education. These findings carry important implications for other districts aiming to develop non-CS teachers to deliver CS instruction.