Case Study Research Articles

Soil microbial diversity in boreal forests of China: A case study of the Altai Mountains with an emphasis on core microbiomes

Soil microbial diversity in boreal forests of China: A case study of the Altai Mountains with an emphasis on core microbiomes

Modelling and optimization of trajectory deviation for compound directional drilling in coal mines

During the sliding mode of compound directional drilling process in coal mines, the inclined angle and azimuth angle need to be changed to minimize the trajectory deviation between the actual trajectory and the designed trajectory. The inclined angle and azimuth angle can be changed by adjusting the tool face angle. In this article, a modelling and optimization method is proposed to obtain optimal tool face angle for sliding mode. Firstly, the gaussian process regression method is employed to build calculation model of trajectory deviation. The optimization model of trajectory deviation consists of the established calculation model of trajectory deviation and the set constraints. Then, the optimal inclination angle and azimuth angle are obtained by solving the constitutive optimization model using an improved particle swarm optimization algorithm. Next, the calculation model of tool face angle is built to represent the relationship between inclination angle, azimuth angle and tool face angle. The optimal tool face angle is calculated based on optimal inclined angle and azimuth angle. Finally, an industrial case study based on the actual drilling data verifies that the proposed method is beneficial to track designed trajectory during drilling process. The proposed method meets the requirements of on-site construction accuracy and ensures the safety and stability of drilling.

Construction of the Giant Panda National Park corridor and restoration of edible bamboo: A case study of from the Chengdu area region

Construction of the Giant Panda National Park corridor and restoration of edible bamboo: A case study of from the Chengdu area region

Using AHP-Entropy method to explore the influencing factors of spatial demand of EVs public charging stations: A case study of Jinan, China

Using AHP-Entropy method to explore the influencing factors of spatial demand of EVs public charging stations: A case study of Jinan, China

Exploration of non-linear influence mechanisms of traditional courtyard forms on thermal comfort in winter and summer: A case study of Beijing, China

Exploration of non-linear influence mechanisms of traditional courtyard forms on thermal comfort in winter and summer: A case study of Beijing, China

Modeling and economic evaluation of hybrid renewable energy sources for green hydrogen production: A case study for the Mediterranean region

Modeling and economic evaluation of hybrid renewable energy sources for green hydrogen production: A case study for the Mediterranean region

Sustainable Hull maintenance strategies in Baltic Sea region through case studies of RoPax vessels.

Determining optimal maintenance strategies in unique maritime environments like the Baltic Sea is challenging, as it should consider various aspects, including ship characteristics and environmental conditions. This study employs the decision support tool HullMASTER (Hull MAintenance STrategies for Emission Reduction) to assess the life cycle costs of different hull maintenance scenarios for RoPax vessels in the Baltic Sea. Findings indicate that optimal hull management can save operators up to €9.3 million and reduce socio-environmental damage costs by €7.9 million over ten years compared to a less proactive baseline. Notably, biofouling pressure decreases from the high-salinity Skagerrak and Kattegat to the low-salinity Baltic Proper, emphasizing the need for tailored maintenance strategies. Among the coatings analyzed, non-biocide foul-release coatings are the most sustainable choice, reducing emissions to the ocean and the atmosphere. These findings will provide practical guidelines for sustainable hull management strategies, contributing to enhanced operational efficiency and marine environmental protection.

Emergy-based valuation of glacier ecosystem services: A case from the Tibetan Plateau.

Glaciers provide multiple ecosystem services (ES) to human society. Due to the continued global warming, the valuation of glacier ES is of urgent importance because this knowledge can support the protection of glaciers. However, a systematic valuation of glacier ES is still lacking, particularly from the perspective of ES contributors. In this study, we introduce the concept of emergy to establish a methodological framework for accounting glacier ES values, and take the Tibetan Plateau (TP) as a case study to comprehensively evaluate the spatiotemporal characteristics of glacier ES during the early 21st century. The results show that the total glacier ES values on the TP increased from 2.36E+24 sej/yr in the 2000s to 2.40E+24 sej/yr in the 2010s, with an overall growth rate of 1.6%. The values of the various services in the 2010s are ranked in descending order: climate regulation (1.59E+24 sej/yr, 66.1%), runoff regulation (4.40E+23 sej/yr, 18.4%), hydropower generation (1.88E+23 sej/yr, 7.8%). Significantly higher glacier ES values were recorded in the marginal TP than in the endorheic area. With the exception of climate regulation and carbon sequestration, all other service values increased during the study period, partially cultural services, which have experienced rapid growth in tandem with social development. The results of this study will help establish the methodological basis for the assessment of regional and global glacier ES, as well as a scientific basis for the regional protection of glacier resources.

Phosphorus speciation in the hyporheic zone and its response to sediment-water quality-biological activity coupling effect.

Different speciation of phosphorus in the hyporheic zone exhibit various release potentials, so as to control the phosphorus content in the overlying water. The process of phosphorus release under the multi-factor coupling of rivers is crucial for understanding the element cycle in complex environments. In this paper, the Weihe River in China was used as a case study to analyze the phosphorus speciation and distribution of overlying water and sediments in the hyporheic zone, and the phosphorus release process of sediments under the coupling of multiple factors. The results showed that the sediment acted as a phosphorus ' sink ' to accept the input of exogenous industrial and agricultural production. Microorganisms could produce complexes through their own metabolism, related enzyme expression, and sulfur reduction process to promote the transformation of phosphorus in sediments to soluble forms. The direct effect of phytoplankton on promoting phosphorus release from sediments is obvious. Water quality and sediment can indirectly promote the release of biological available phosphorus by promoting the proliferation of phytoplankton. As the demand for available phosphorus by phytoplankton increases, phosphorus-related bacterial communities show a stronger ability to decompose phosphorus. The functional genes of microorganisms involved in the phosphorous cycle are also coupled in this system, thus forming a sediment-water quality-biological activity coupling system that plays an important role in promoting sediment phosphorus release. The results of this study provide a theoretical reference for further research on the transformation and circulation of nutrient elements in the complex environment of rivers.

A bi-level framework to analyse the alternative use of FTRs as a long-term risk hedging instrument. Application to a European case study

A bi-level framework to analyse the alternative use of FTRs as a long-term risk hedging instrument. Application to a European case study

A phase 2, multicenter, open-label study of AlloStim combined with anti-PD-L1immunotherapy as 4L therapy in patients with MSS/pMMR metastatic colorectal cancer.

TPS318 Background: Microsatellite stable (MSS)/mismatch repair proficient (pMMR) metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) are immunologically 'cold' tumors that do not respond to immunotherapy. Cold tumors represent a formidable hurdle for checkpoint blockade immunotherapy approaches. Therefore, there is a need for novel strategies that could reprogram mCRC cold tumors to become inflamed hot tumors in a manner that might potentially convert low tumor mutational burden (TMB) tumors into checkpoint blockade responsive tumors. AlloStim is an experimental allogeneic, non-genetically manipulated, Th1-like activated living cell immunotherapy derived from healthy unrelated blood donors. The mechanism of action is designed to convert immunologically cold tumors into inflamed hot tumors. A case study of a single 3L MSS/pMMR mCRC patient primed with AlloStim followed by combination anti-PD-1/anti-CTLA4 checkpoint blockade resulted in a rare objective tumor response (Hirschfeld, et al, Translational Medicine Communications (2024) 9:15). The AlloStim priming results in an abundance of infiltrating interferon-gamma producing Th1 cells. Interferon-gamma has been shown to increase expression of PD-L1 in the TME. Therefore, it is hypothesized that the combination of AlloStim with an anti-PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor might optimally evoke anti-tumor immune responses in this immunotherapy-refractory MSS/pMMR mCRC population. Methods: The study is a phase 2, multicenter, single-arm clinical trial of MSS/pMMR mCRC subjects in 4L that have been previously treated with an oxaliplatin-containing and irinotecan-containing chemotherapy regimen, anti-EGFR (RAS wt and left-sided), anti-VEGF and have progressed on 3L TAS-102 +/- bevacizumab or regorafenib or fruquinitinib. The study is evaluating weekly AlloStim priming from day 0 to day 49 followed by combination of AlloStim IV infusion (q2w) followed a week later by anti-PD-L1 (avelumab 800mg/q2w) from days 63 to day 98. Objective tumor response and disease control rate are the primary end-points. Overall survival is the secondary end-point. Clinically stable patients at day 112 can continue in an expansion phase with another round of combination AlloStim and avelumab from day 119 to day 154. CT scans are conducted at baseline, day 56 after AlloStim priming, day 112 after combination of alternating q2w infusions of AlloStim and avelumab and day 168 in all patients. CT scans will be analyzed by independent central readers using RECIST 1.1. Up to 50 patients will be enrolled with an interim analysis performed to assess efficacy after 20 patients become evaluable. The study is open and has not yet enrolled any patients at time of submission. Clinical trial information: NCT06557278 .

Integrated Crop Production Management

Abstract: Integrated Crop Production and Management is an innovative and sustainable approach that combines a variety of farming practices to optimize crop yield, soil health, and environmental sustainability. The approach integrates strategies such as crop rotation, organic fertilization, pest and weed management, water conservation, and soil fertility enhancement into a comprehensive farming system. ICPM would minimize dependency on chemical inputs, promote soil structure, and enhance biodiversity while improving crop tolerance to climatic variability and pests. This paper explores the principles and methodologies behind ICPM, bringing to light how it can promote agricultural productivity and ecological balance at the same time. The paper highlights the potential of IPM, conservation tillage, and agroforestry in promoting farm resilience while reducing environmental degradation. Case studies and field experiments demonstrate the effects of ICPM on crop yield, soil health, and profitability of the farm. The adoption of modern and traditional practices in ICPM not only addresses the immediate needs of crop production but also contributes to long-term sustainability. This research will demonstrate how ICPM can be a viable solution to current challenges in agriculture, such as climate change, food security, and resource depletion, and offer farmers a pathway to more resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.

岭南非物质文化遗产在文创产品开发中的创新与设计研究

通过综述我国岭南非物质文化遗产保育与活化的现状，归纳非遗文创产品开发的概念与模式，并论证文创产品开发对岭南非物质文化遗产传播与活化的积极作用。本文将基于当前非遗保育研究文献，探讨非遗文化在文创产品设计中的传承与创新形式，进一步分析其有效渗透途径。同时，通过案例分析，阐释岭南非遗文创产品开发设计中，如何从文化、形式、功能以及无形产品的情感元素中提取设计创意方法。总结岭南非物质文化遗产元素在文创产品开发与创新中的表达形式及创意手法。基于现代消费者对岭南非物质文化遗产保育与传承的认知态度，分析文化创意产品开发与岭南非物质文化遗产保育之间的互利关系；并从主题、产品、工艺及材料载体四个方面，创新性地提出岭南非物质文化遗产文创开发的有效途径及未来发展方向。Heritage (ICH) in the Lingnan region of China, this paper summarizes the concepts and models of ICH-related cultural and creative product development and demonstrates the positive role of such development in promoting and revitalizing Lingnan ICH. Based on existing research literature on ICH conservation, the paper explores the forms of inheritance and innovation of ICH culture in cultural and creative product design and further analyzes effective penetration methods for integrating ICH culture into such designs. Additionally, through case studies, it illustrates creative design methods for extracting cultural, formal, functional, and emotional elements of intangible products from Lingnan ICH in the development and design of cultural and creative products. The paper summarizes the semantic expression forms and creative approaches of Lingnan ICH elements in cultural and creative product development and innovation. Considering modern consumers' perceptions and attitudes toward the conservation and inheritance of Lingnan ICH, the paper analyzes the mutually beneficial relationship between the development of cultural and creative products and the conservation of Lingnan ICH. It innovatively proposes effective approaches and future development directions for ICH-related cultural and creative product development in Lingnan, focusing on four aspects: themes, products, craftsmanship, and material carriers.

新媒体时代下非遗古城文化传承创新性研究——以揭阳古城为例Innovative research on cultural inheritance of intangible heritage ancient City in the new media era: taking Jieyang Ancient City as an example

本研究聚焦于揭阳古城非遗文化的传承，采用实地调研、案例分析和问卷调查等方法。研究发现，该地区在非遗文化传播方面存在传播方式单一、目标对象不明确、创新性不足以及合作机制不健全等问题。例如，传统宣传手段局限、当地群众认知不足、宣传方式过于保守，与各方合作较少等。针对这些问题，本文提出了构建新媒体矩阵与多元化传播策略，以及以创新思维引领内容创作与运营的建议，例如创意策划、社群互动和文创产品开发。同时，本文还提出了促进古城文化可持续发展的具体措施，包括加强非遗传承保护、完善旅游设施与服务、深化合作交流以及持续监测与评估。此外，对于合作机制不健全的问题，本文建议通过提供线下实体支持和打造本土文创产品的策略加以改善，旨在为揭阳古城非遗文化的传承与发展提供有效路径。This study focuses on the inheritance of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in the ancient city of Jieyang, employing methods such as field research, case studies, and questionnaires. The findings reveal several issues, including a lack of diversity in communication methods, unclear target audiences, insufficient innovation, and underdeveloped collaboration mechanisms. Examples include the limitations of traditional promotional approaches, insufficient public awareness among local residents, conservative communication strategies, and limited cooperation with various stakeholders. To address these challenges, the study proposes constructing a new media matrix and adopting diversified communication strategies, as well as leveraging innovative thinking to guide content creation and operations. Specific suggestions include creative planning, community engagement, and cultural product development. Furthermore, the study outlines measures to promote the sustainable development of the ancient city’s culture, such as strengthening the protection of intangible cultural heritage, improving tourism facilities and services, enhancing collaboration and exchanges, and conducting continuous monitoring and evaluation. In addition, for the issue of underdeveloped collaboration mechanisms, the study recommends providing offline support and developing local cultural and creative products as strategies to improve cooperation. These recommendations aim to offer effective pathways for the inheritance and development of intangible cultural heritage in the ancient city of Jieyang.

Integration of Ideological and Political Education into "Financial Management" Curriculum: Teaching Reform and Practice Research

With the continuous deepening of higher education reform, integrating ideological and political education with professional course teaching has become an important direction for educational innovation. This paper takes the "Financial Management" course as an example to explore the integration strategies, implementation paths of ideological and political education in professional teaching, and its impact on improving teaching quality and students' comprehensive qualities. This paper employs literature analysis, case study, and teaching experimentation methods to construct a teaching model for ideological and political education in financial management courses, proposes specific integration strategies, and validates the effectiveness of these strategies through empirical research. The research results show that the effective integration of ideological and political education can significantly enhance students' professional ethics and social responsibility, while also promoting students' in-depth understanding and application ability of professional knowledge. This paper has certain theoretical and practical significance for promoting higher education curriculum reform and achieving the organic unity of knowledge impartation and value guidance.

Future Prospects of Biodegradable Natural Fiber Composites: Innovations and Enhanced Performance in Roofing and Packaging Applications

This paper explores advancements in sustainable composite materials, focusing on biodegradable fibers, recycling innovations, and enhanced performance for packaging and roofing applications. With growing environmental concerns industries are shifting toward materials that reduce ecological footprints without compromising performance. Biodegradable fibers derived from natural sources such as hemp, jute, and flax have gained attention for their potential to replace synthetic fibers in composite manufacturing. These natural fibers offer environmental benefits including reduced carbon emissions, energy savings, and easier disposal. However, challenges remain in optimizing their mechanical properties to match conventional materials. Recycling innovations also play a critical role in achieving sustainability goals in composite manufacturing. Recent advancements in chemical and mechanical recycling processes allow the reuse of composite waste, reducing landfill dependency and resource depletion. Enhanced recycling methods improve material recovery and retain quality extending product life cycles. This research examines how these processes can be effectively applied in packaging and roofing, two sectors with high material demand and waste output. The study assesses the performance of sustainable composites in terms of durability, thermal stability, and resistance to environmental factors, critical for both packaging and roofing. Through a combination of experimental testing and case studies, this thesis demonstrates that sustainable composites can offer viable alternatives to traditional materials supporting a transition to greener construction and packaging solutions. This paper contributes valuable insights into the practical applications of biodegradable and recyclable composites paving the way for more sustainable material choices in industrial sectors

Evaluating Image Processing Capabilities in the Cloud: A Comparative Study of Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud

Cloud computing is a transformative paradigm that enables the distribution of processing power, application execution, and storage across networks of remote computer systems. This model allows for the flexible allocation and release of IT resources over the internet, offering an affordable solution for both businesses and individuals. Through cloud services, users can access a variety of offerings, such as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), and Desktop as a Service (DaaS), with pricing based on actual usage. In an increasingly competitive market with diverse service options, selecting a long-term cloud provider can be challenging. Dominant providers like Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud lead this market. This paper provides an in-depth evaluation of the image processing services offered by these providers, focusing on Azure Custom Vision, Azure Computer Vision, Azure Cognitive Services, Google Cloud Vision API, and AutoML Vision. The analysis explores the performance and capabilities of these services, emphasizing their strengths and leadership in cloud technology. The primary goal of this study is to offer a comparative analysis of Azure and Google Cloud, helping organizations and users make informed decisions that align with their long-term objectives. In addition, the paper examines the security measures implemented for Integration Platform as a Service (iPaaS) on both platforms, providing a detailed review of their security features and protective mechanisms. The study also highlights key parameters such as performance, scalability, usability, cost, and security to assist organizations in choosing the most appropriate platform for their specific requirements. Case studies and emerging trends in cloud-based image processing are also covered

Enhancing Medical Awareness through Digital Engagement: A Case Study on the HidocDr. Platform

Enhancing Medical Awareness through Digital Engagement: A Case Study on the HidocDr. Platform

Drug Addiction is a Menace for Society: A Case Study on Causes and Awareness among Youth of Udhampur District of Jammu and Kashmir State

Drug addiction has now become a large phenomenon in Udhampur District in the past one decade affecting society. The use of alcohol, tobacco, various drugs is spread continuously among youths. The addiction of psychoactive drugs among youths is an issue of national importance. Drug addiction also called substance use disorder is a major preventable cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Udhampur District of Jammu and Kashmir State is not an exception. The aim of the present study is to know the awareness of drug addiction among people of Udhampur District of Jammu Division. 250 persons 150 male and 100 female selected randomly from different areas of district Udhampur District were asked questions regarding the age at which people start to use drug, their drug habits, their reason for drug etc. The results obtained in our study presents a horrifying picture and a threat for the entire society if the menace is not controlled.

Python交互式学习平台在数字金融教学中的构建与应用

随着数字技术与金融的深度融合，对理论与实践兼备的复合型人才的需求日益增加。传统的金融实验或上机课程受限于时间和软件环境，难以满足学生自主学习的需求。为此，本文设计了一种基于 Python 的交互式数字金融学习平台。该平台将复杂的金融问题分解为循序渐进的学习单元，通过数据可视化、模型构建和代码编辑与执行等功能，使学生能够在真实场景中开展互动学习。以信用卡反欺诈和去中心化货币设计为案例，系统展示了在培养学生数据分析、算法应用和创新思维方面的实践经验。研究结果表明，该平台能够有效提升学生的实践能力和创新思维，为推动数字金融教育改革与创新提供了新的思路。 With the deep integration of digital technology and finance, the demand for interdisciplinary talents who possess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills is growing rapidly. Traditional financial experiments and hands-on courses are often constrained by time and software environments, making it challenging to meet students' needs for autonomous learning. Therefore, this paper introduces an interactive digital finance learning platform based on Python. The platform deconstructs complex financial problems into progressively structured learning units, enabling students to engage in interactive learning through features such as data visualization, model building, and code execution. Using two case studies—credit card fraud detection and decentralized currency design—the platform systematically illustrates how to cultivate students' data analysis, algorithm application, and innovative thinking skills. The research findings indicate that the platform significantly enhances students' practical skills and fosters innovative thinking, providing valuable insights for advancing digital finance education reform and innovation.