bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Adaptive Multi-Population Approach for Sphericity Error Evaluation in the Manufacture of Hemispherical Shell Resonators
Authors: Zhao Dongfang , Cui Junning , Bian Xingyuan , Li Zhenghao , Sun Yanxu
Published: February 2024

The performance of a hemispherical resonant gyroscope (HRG) is directly affected by the sphericity error of the thin-walled spherical shell of the hemispherical shell resonator (HSR). In the production process of the HSRs, high-speed, high-accuracy, and high-robustness requirements are necessary for evaluating sphericity errors. We designed a sphericity error evaluation method based on the minimum zone criterion with an adaptive number of subpopulations. The method utilizes the global optimal solution and the subpopulations’ optimal solution to guide the search, initializes the subpopulations through clustering, and dynamically eliminates inferior subpopulations. Simulation experiments demonstrate that the algorithm exhibits excellent evaluation accuracy when processing simulation datasets with different sphericity errors, radii, and numbers of sampling points. The uncertainty of the results reached the order of 10−9 mm. When processing up to 6000 simulation datasets, the algorithm’s solution deviation from the ideal sphericity error remained around −3 × 10−9 mm. And the sphericity error evaluation was completed within 1 s on average. Additionally, comparison experiments further confirmed the evaluation accuracy of the algorithm. In the HSR sample measurement experiments, our algorithm improved the sphericity error assessment accuracy of the HSR’s inner and outer contour sampling datasets by 17% and 4%, compared with the results given by the coordinate measuring machine. The experiment results demonstrated that the algorithm meets the requirements of sphericity error assessment in the manufacturing process of the HSRs and has the potential to be widely used in the future.
1 V Electronically Tunable Differential Difference Current Conveyors Using Multiple-Input Operational Transconductance Amplifiers
Authors: Kumngern Montree , Khateb Fabian , Kulej Tomasz , Langhammer Lukas
Published: February 2024

This paper presents electronically tunable current conveyors using low-voltage, low-power, multiple-input operational transconductance amplifiers (MI-OTAs). The MI-OTA is realized using the multiple-input bulk-driven Metal Oxide Semiconductor transistor (MIBD-MOST) technique to achieve minimum power consumption. The MI-OTA also features high linearity, a wide input range, and a simple Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS). Thus, high-performance electronically tunable current conveyors are obtained. With the MI-OTA-based current conveyor, both an electronically tunable differential difference current conveyor (EDDCC) and a second-generation electronically tunable current conveyor (ECCII) are available. Unlike the conventional differential difference current conveyor (DDCC) and second-generation current conveyor (CCII), the current gains of the EDDCC and ECCII can be controlled by adjusting the transconductance ratio of the current conveyors. The proposed EDDCC has been used to realize a voltage-to-current converter and current-mode universal filter to show the advantages of the current gain of the EDDCC. The proposed current conveyors and their applications are designed and simulated in the Cadence environment using 0.18 μm TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) CMOS technology. The proposed circuit uses ±0.5 V of power supply and consumes 90 μW of power. The simulation results are presented and confirm the functionality of the proposed circuit and the filter application. Furthermore, the experimental measurement of the EDDCC implemented in the form of a breadboard connection using a commercially available LM13700 device is presented.
Fixed-Time-Convergent Sliding Mode Control with Sliding Mode Observer for PMSM Speed Regulation
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li Hongwen , Shao Meng
Published: February 2024

This paper focuses on the speed control of a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) for electric drives with model uncertainties and external disturbances. Conventional sliding mode control (CSMC) can only converge asymptotically in the infinite domain and will cause unacceptable sliding mode chattering. To improve the performance of the PMSM speed loop in terms of response speed, tracking accuracy, and robustness, a hybrid control strategy for a fixed-time-convergent sliding mode controller (FSMC) with a fixed-time-convergent sliding mode observer (FSMO) is proposed for PMSM speed regulation using the fixed-time control theory. Firstly, the FSMC is proposed to improve the convergence speed and robustness of the speed loop, which can converge to the origin within a fixed time independent of the initial conditions. Then, the FSMO is used as a compensator to further enhance the robustness of the speed loop and attenuate sliding mode chattering. Finally, simulation and experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively improve the dynamic performance and robustness of the PMSM speed control system.
The Potential of Diffusion-Based Near-Infrared Image Colorization
Authors: Borstelmann Ayk , Haucke Timm , Steinhage Volker
Published: February 2024

Camera traps, an invaluable tool for biodiversity monitoring, capture wildlife activities day and night. In low-light conditions, near-infrared (NIR) imaging is commonly employed to capture images without disturbing animals. However, the reflection properties of NIR light differ from those of visible light in terms of chrominance and luminance, creating a notable gap in human perception. Thus, the objective is to enrich near-infrared images with colors, thereby bridging this domain gap. Conventional colorization techniques are ineffective due to the difference between NIR and visible light. Moreover, regular supervised learning methods cannot be applied because paired training data are rare. Solutions to such unpaired image-to-image translation problems currently commonly involve generative adversarial networks (GANs), but recently, diffusion models gained attention for their superior performance in various tasks. In response to this, we present a novel framework utilizing diffusion models for the colorization of NIR images. This framework allows efficient implementation of various methods for colorizing NIR images. We show NIR colorization is primarily controlled by the translation of the near-infrared intensities to those of visible light. The experimental evaluation of three implementations with increasing complexity shows that even a simple implementation inspired by visible-near-infrared (VIS-NIR) fusion rivals GANs. Moreover, we show that the third implementation is capable of outperforming GANs. With our study, we introduce an intersection field joining the research areas of diffusion models, NIR colorization, and VIS-NIR fusion.
Impact of Combined Action of Chloride and Carbonation on Cement-Based Materials with Fly Ash
Authors: Malheiro Raphaele , Camões Aires , Meira Gibson , Reis Rui , Nóbrega Aline
Published: February 2024

Integrating waste and industrial by-products into concrete is an alternative way to reduce global cement consumption, enhancing its eco-friendliness. In this context, residues with fly ash have been increasingly utilised. Considering the vulnerability of concrete with fly ash to carbonation and, at the same time, its high resistance to chlorides, it is important to investigate the behaviour of these concretes under their combined actions. For this purpose, an experimental investigation was conducted, studying mortar and concrete specimens with 40% replacement of cement with fly ash. These specimens were subjected to a combination of actions (Cl− and CO2) in two phases: initially through immersion and drying tests, and subsequently through a combination of accelerated tests. Concerning the chloride impact study, free and total chloride profiles were studied. Concerning the impact of carbonation, colourimetric and chemical tests were used. The results demonstrate a significant influence of combined action not only on chloride penetration in cement-based materials with fly ash but also on the development of a carbonation front. Exposure of cement-based materials with fly ash to environments with high Cl− and CO2 content sequentially may lead, on the one hand, to an increase in carbonation resistance. However, on the other hand, it may result in a substantial reduction in chloride penetration resistance.
Pharmacokinetic Simulation Study: Exploring the Impact of Clinical Parameters on Lamotrigine for Different Patient Populations with Implications for Liver Function Assessment and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
Authors: Costa Bárbara , Silva Isabel , Oliveira José Carlos , Reguengo Henrique , Vale Nuno
Published: February 2024

Lamotrigine, widely used for managing epilepsy and bipolar disorder, carries potential side effects, including severe anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome (AHS) or drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), which may lead to hepatotoxicity. Patients with Type 2 Diabetes (TD2) and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) are identified as more susceptible to these adverse reactions. This exploratory analysis aims to identify clinical parameters influencing lamotrigine pharmacokinetics across diverse populations, shedding light on toxicity and therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) considerations. Starting with a retrospective analysis of 41 lamotrigine-treated patients at Hospital Santo António reveals changes or deviations from normal levels in various blood parameters and significant correlations between these parameters. Serum level changes, including creatinine, albumin, gamma-glutamyl transferase, total bilirubin, and Vitamin B12, are observed, with strong negative correlations between Vitamin B12 and creatinine. Then, we used GastroPlus and DILIsym to explore the impact of clinical parameters on lamotrigine for different patient populations. We constructed a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for lamotrigine in GastroPlus, based on ADMET predictions and data from the literature, to simulate the pharmacokinetic variability of lamotrigine in different populations, and we visualized the impact of increasing lamotrigine dose on its plasma concentration–time profiles (200 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, 1200 mg) and reduced bioavailability. At higher doses, it is possible that the saturation of metabolic pathways leads to the formation of toxic metabolites or intermediates. These metabolites may exert inhibitory effects on drug-metabolizing enzymes or disrupt normal physiological processes, thereby impeding the drug’s clearance and potentially lowering its bioavailability. In DILIsym, we investigated lamotrigine’s DILI potential for individuals with diabetes and NAFLD. The results demonstrated an increased risk, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring. This study underscores the importance of understanding lamotrigine’s pharmacokinetics for tailored treatment decisions, improved outcomes, and minimized adverse reactions.
Enhancing Waste-to-Energy and Hydrogen Production through Urban–Industrial Symbiosis: A Multi-Objective Optimisation Model Incorporating a Bayesian Best-Worst Method
Authors: Neri Alessandro , Butturi Maria Angela , Lolli Francesco , Gamberini Rita
Published: February 2024

A surging demand for sustainable energy and the urgency to lower greenhouse gas emissions is driving industrial systems towards more eco-friendly and cost-effective models. Biogas from agricultural and municipal organic waste is gaining momentum as a renewable energy source. Concurrently, the European Hydrogen Strategy focuses on green hydrogen for decarbonising the industrial and transportation sectors. This paper presents a multi-objective network design model for urban–industrial symbiosis, incorporating anaerobic digestion, cogeneration, photovoltaic, and hydrogen production technologies. Additionally, a Bayesian best-worst method is used to evaluate the weights of the sustainability aspects by decision-makers, integrating these into the mathematical model. The model optimises industrial plant locations considering economic, environmental, and social parameters, including the net present value, energy consumption, and carbon footprint. The model’s functionalities are demonstrated through a real-world case study based in Emilia Romagna, Italy. It is subject to sensitivity analysis to evaluate how changes in the inputs affect the outcomes and highlights feasible trade-offs through the exploration of the ϵ-constraint. The findings demonstrate that the model substantially boosts energy and hydrogen production. It is not only economically viable but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with fossil fuels and landfilling. Additionally, it contributes to job creation. This research has significant implications, with potential future studies intended to focus on system resilience, plant location optimisation, and sustainability assessment.
Use of Magnetic Flux Leakage to Diagnose Damage to a Lift Guide Rails System with Reference to the Sustainability Aspect
Authors: Lonkwic Paweł , Krakowski Tomasz , Ruta Hubert
Published: February 2024

The scientific objective of the conducted experimental research was to find an answer as to whether the application of magnetic flux leakage would be an effective tool for assessing the technical condition of lift guide rails in which the loss of thickness of the guide part is damage resulting from the brake whose operation destructively affects the surface shown. In particular, the scientific objective was to investigate the potential of this method in the context of quantitative assessment of the degree of damage featuring small increments in depth at the level of tenths of a millimetre. The conducted research was also aimed at determining the correlation of the effect of damage type with the nature of the signal recorded. The article presents the results of our own research, obtained from experiments on the use of magnetic flux leakage (MFL) to diagnose damage occurring on lift guide rails. During operation, lift guide rails are exposed to contact with the friction elements of brakes, resulting in the violation of their surfaces. Damage to the working surfaces of guide rails increases the vibration of the device, noise and wear of other components of the lift, such as guide rails. Currently, diagnostics of lift guide rails are not carried out, and their replacement depends on their technical condition. However, from an economic point of view, there are situations wherein their condition allows their use without their replacement with new ones. This was the main factor that guided the authors; we used a diagnostic head of our own design for the tests. The obtained measurement results showed that magnetic flux leakage can be used with great success to diagnose damage to guide rails. The results obtained in the laboratory shall be further developed in the form of research on correlating the signals obtained from magnetic sensors and the size of the damage, which shall eventually allow for a final quantitative assessment of guide rails regarding their technical condition. The conducted research fits into the scope of sustainable development by reducing the need for the consumption of electric energy and the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere in the overall production balance. This will be made possible by implementing the developed head in industrial practice in the context of assessing the need to replace guide rails with new ones. The economic and environmental efficiency that is the basis of sustainable development in the context of lifts can be achieved at the modernisation stage by repeated (further) use of as many components as possible. An example of this is the guide rail system, the reuse of which is possible after a prior assessment of its wear and tear.
The Effects of the Interaction of Pesticides with Humin Fraction as Influencing the Sustainable Development of Agroecosystems
Authors: Mielnik Lilla , Weber Jerzy , Ukalska-Jaruga Aleksandra , Bejger Romualda , Jerzykiewicz Maria , Kocowicz Andrzej , Ćwieląg-Piasecka Irmina , Jamroz Elżbieta , Debicka Magdalena , Bekier Jakub
Published: February 2024

Humin (HUM) is the most stable fraction of the soil organic matter, whose properties determine the soil health and sustainable development of agroecosystems. The aim of the paper was to determine changes in the properties of the HUM after interaction with selected pesticides, which can be visualized using photoluminescence methods. The HUM was isolated from the mollic horizon of Phaeozems arable soils derived from different parent materials in Poland. The isolated and purified HUM were saturated in a batch experiment with selected herbicides and insecticides, then analyzed for chemical composition and spectroscopic properties: Electron Paramagnetic Resonance, fluorescence, and delayed luminescence. The research showed that the interaction of the HUM with selected pesticides caused significant changes in the elemental composition of the HUM; however, no changes in their aromaticity/aliphaticity were found. The impact of pesticides was also marked by a reduction in the concentration of radicals, fluorescence and delayed luminescence intensity and properties. Changes in spectroscopic characteristics and their relationship with soil organic matter (SOM) structure properties require further research so that their results can be used in the management of agroecosystems in accordance with the principles of sustainable development.
Sustainable and Circular Hotels and the Water–Food–Energy Nexus: Integration of Agrivoltaics, Hydropower, Solar Cells, Water Reservoirs, and Green Roofs
Authors: Taghipour Atour , Padash Amin , Etemadi Vahid , Khazaei Moein , Ebrahimi Samira
Published: February 2024

The hotel industry in Iran faces critical challenges that underscore the urgent need for sustainable practices, specifically in the realms of energy, water, and food. Despite industry growth, a mere three percent of hotels fall into the five- and four-star categories, emphasizing the need for widespread adoption of sustainable practices. Focused on Ramsar in Mazandaran, the study underscores the importance of eco-friendly strategies to tackle challenges related to the food–water–energy nexus. Employing the SCOC, Fuzzy BWM, and Z-MARCOS methods, the research proposes a robust framework for evaluating hotel development strategies. The case study reveals a concentration of hotels in Khorasan Razavi, Mazandaran, and Tehran, urging prioritization of sustainable practices in these regions. Analyzing Ramsar’s climate, the study suggests leveraging solar energy and implementing green roofs, emphasizing an integrated approach to achieve eco-friendly hotel construction. Furthermore, the research provides a prioritized set of strategies based on SCOC, aligning with criteria regarding the water–energy–food nexus. It emphasizes internal strengths, opportunities, and strategic technology partnerships while acknowledging external challenges such as political stability and climate change risks. The discussion introduces an Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA) to guide managerial decisions, presenting an insightful perspective for effective strategy implementation in Iran’s evolving hotel industry.
Does Food Expenditure Decrease after Retirement, and for Whom?
Authors: Kimhi Ayal , Sender Maya
Published: February 2024

This paper examines the decline in food expenditure after retirement by quantiles of the consumption distribution, by gender, and by pre-retirement employment status. The decline in food expenditure after retirement is smaller among those who were employees than among those who were self-employed, but only for females. Males who did not work did not experience a decline in food expenditure when they crossed the official retirement age, while females who did not work decreased their food expenditure in parts of the consumption distribution. These results are consistent with the two common explanations of the decline in consumption after retirement: inadequate savings and substitution of time for money. Public policy should target the inadequate savings phenomenon in order to make food consumption more sustainable during retirement.
Economic Appraisal and Enhanced Efficiency Optimization for Liquid Methanol Production Process
Authors: Khatamijouybari Alireza , Ilinca Adrian
Published: February 2024

The presented study examines the economic viability and optimization of a previously designed integrated process for producing liquid methanol. The annualized cost of the system method is applied for economic analysis. The optimization method includes a robust hybrid approach that combines the NSGA-II multi-objective optimization algorithm with artificial intelligence. Decision variables for the optimization are taken from a sensitivity analysis to optimize the exergy and energy efficiencies and the investment return period. Decision-making methodologies, including LINMAP, fuzzy, and TOPSIS, are utilized to identify the optimal outcomes, effectively identifying points along the Pareto-optimal front. Compared with the original design, the research outcomes demonstrate an over 38% reduction in the process’s investment return period post optimization, as evaluated through the TOPSIS and LINMAP methodologies. Additionally, the highest level of thermal efficiency achieved through optimization stands at 79.9%, assessed using the LINMAP and TOPSIS methods, and 79.2% using the fuzzy Bellman–Zadeh method. The process optimization in the presented research, coupled with the improved economic feasibility, mitigates energy consumption through maximizing efficiency, thereby fostering sustainable and environmentally friendly development.
Research Progress on the Configurations and Performance of Reducing Pollution and Carbon Emissions by Bacterial–Algal Reactor
Authors: Lu Yunxia , An Hao , Li Chao , Wu Xinming , Liu Kang
Published: February 2024

Currently, the water ecological environment is severely polluted and traditional bioreactors have issues with high energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. However, a promising solution is the bacterial–algal reactor, which is a green bioreactor that can simultaneously treat sewage and fix CO2. The main configurations of bacterial–algal reactors, including several types, activated sludge, biofilm, batch biofilm–sludge reactor coupled with activated sludge method, and bacterial–algal open reactor, have been reviewed. The performance of these reactors in reducing pollutants and carbon emissions during wastewater treatment has been investigated. Additionally, the technical advantages of coupling a bacterial–algal symbiosis system with a conventional bioreactor have been analyzed. The interaction mechanism of the bacterial–algal system in various reactors has also been elaborated. The bacterial–algal reactor improves pollutant removal efficiency through assimilation and absorption of pollutants by microalgae, and reduces aeration by releasing oxygen through photosynthesis of microalgae. Finally, the existing problems in the practical application of bacterial–algal reactors have been summarized, and future research directions have been suggested, providing theoretical support for the future application of bacterial–algal reactors and directions for optimal design and development of bacterial–algal symbiotic reactors.
Physics-Based Modeling and Parameter Tracing for Industrial Demand-Side Management Applications: A Novel Approach
Authors: Leherbauer Dominik , Hehenberger Peter
Published: February 2024

The transition to sustainable energy sources presents significant challenges for energy distribution and consumption systems. Specifically, the intermittent availability of renewable energy sources and the decreasing usage of fossil fuels pose challenges to energy flexibility and efficiency. An approach to tackle these challenges is demand-side management, aiming to adapt energy consumption and demand. A key requirement for demand-side management is the traceability of the energy flow among individual energy consumers. In recent years, advancements in industrial information and communication technology have provided additional potential for data acquisition. Complementary to acquired data, a physics-based modeling and analysis approach is proposed, which describes the energy consumption with physical parameters. This results in comprehensive options for monitoring actual energy consumption and planning future energy demand supporting energy efficiency and demand-response goals. To validate the proposed approach, a case study with a 3D printer covering approximately 110 h of active printing time is conducted. The medium-term study results indicate a consistent parameter trend over time, suggesting its conceptual suitability for industrial application. The approach helps to monitor energy efficiency among manufacturing assets by identifying peak loads and consumption hotspots, and provides parameters to estimate energy consumption of manufacturing processes. Results indicate up to 50% energy savings when switching the printing material and indicate further potentials.
Exploring the Effects of Multi-Governance Mechanisms throughout the Dynamic Evolution of the Cooperative Innovation Network
Authors: Wang Jiaxin , Xie Qinghong , Geng Xinyu
Published: February 2024

The sustainable evolution of cooperative innovation networks is determined to a great extent by the effectiveness of their governance mechanisms. In this study, we draw from social network and stakeholder theories to emphasize two types of mechanisms that coordinate cooperative innovation: the internal drivers of transitivity and status, which are endogenous mechanisms of network embeddedness, and the external drivers of association autonomy, industrial policy support, and institutional environment establishment, which are the governing effects of external stakeholders. We constructed cooperative innovation networks using a dataset on joint applications for patents in China’s electronics information industry during 2006–2018 and applied a Stochastic Actor-Oriented Model (SAOM) for analytical purposes. The findings show that as networks evolve, the effect of transitivity on cooperative innovation first slightly decreases and then intensifies. The influence of status and industrial policy support intensifies first and then weakens. The impact of association autonomy remains stable, and institutional environment establishment on cooperative innovation intensifies. We also provide theoretical and managerial implications for the dynamic evolution of cooperative innovation networks.
The Impact of Digital Finance on the Green Utilization Efficiency of Urban Land: Evidence from 281 Cities in China
Authors: Zhang Jie , Sun Tao
Published: February 2024

In the era of digital economy, digital finance, as an innovative financial model, plays an important role in driving urban industrial transformation and development, technological innovation, industrial upgrading and sustainable utilization of energy, and has a significant impact on sustainable urban development. At present, in the process of building a new pattern of Chinese-style modernization in China, it is of great significance to improve the green use efficiency of urban land through digital finance and realize the sustainable use of land resources and the sustainable development of the city. The current study employed 281 Chinese cities from 2010 to 2020 as research samples to investigate the effects of technological financing on the productivity of city land green usage. Based on the ideas of responsible growth and efficient urban development, an assessment index system was developed. Comprehensive empirical tests, such as the Super-SBM model, fixed effect model, and mediation effect model, were implemented in the research. The study’s findings indicate that: (1) Throughout the research period, the benchmark model’s regression outcomes demonstrate that digital banking impacts urban land’s green development efficiency, with positive moderating effects offered by environmental legislation; the optimization of industrial structure has not yet played a positive regulating effect. (2) Urban area green usage performance is more clearly impacted by the extent of use and the degree of digitization, according to the regression results of digital financing heterogeneity. The positive effect of online financial services on a city’s green use efficiency occurs mainly in eastern cities and southern cities, given the results of urban development level difference. In light of resource endowment unpredictability, “non-resource cities” stand to gain more from global finance’s encouragement of resource-efficient urban land use than do “resource cities”. The results of the mechanism test indicate that there is a strong mediating influence from digital finance, city land environmental use productivity, and green technological breakthroughs. In consideration of these results, the following measures are suggested in this paper: (1) Persist in advocating for the transformation of traditional finance into online financing. (2) Intensify the impact of significant variables on the environmentally friendly use of urban areas. (3) Encourage technology creativity and execution through the application of technological economics.
Moving towards Sustainable Mobility: A Comparative Analysis of Smart Urban Mobility in Croatian Cities
Authors: Mutavdžija Maja , Kovačić Matija , Buntak Krešimir
Published: February 2024

Most modern urban areas strive to realize a sustainable and smart urban mobility system. In the Republic of Croatia, no study has provided an analysis of the state of urban mobility therefore, the main purpose of this paper is to determine the level of smart urban mobility in the cities of the Republic of Croatia. Based on the indicators provided by ISO standards (ISO 37120:2018 and ISO 37122:2019), the state of smart urban mobility in the Republic of Croatia was evaluated and a comparative analysis of small, medium-sized, and large cities was conducted. Moreover, correlations were found between individual indicators, within the categories of small, medium, and large cities, to determine whether there is a connection between individual indicators. The obtained results show that the state of smart urban mobility in the territory of the Republic of Croatia is at a very low level. The highest level of smart urban mobility was achieved by large cities, but it was not significantly different from the level in small and medium-sized cities. The correlation between the indicators also highlights the strong links between individual elements in the city. Therefore, to achieve smart urban mobility, it is necessary to manage all elements in an integrated manner.
A New Method for the Analysis of Broadband Oscillation Mode of New Energy Stations
Authors: Guo Cheng , Yang Lingrui , Dai Jianbo , Chen Bo , Yin Ke , Dai Jing
Published: February 2024

The accurate identification of the broadband oscillation mode is the premise of solving the resonance risk of new energy stations. Reviewing the traditional Prony algorithm, the problems of the high model order and poor noise immunity in broadband oscillation mode are identified. The accuracy and running time of the Variational mode decomposition (VMD) is a symmetric trade-off problem. An improved strategy based on VMD is proposed. Firstly, the optimal value of the number of modes and penalty factors obtained by a particle swarm optimization algorithm is input into VMD to decompose the signal into multiple modes. Then, combined with the energy threshold method, the denoising and signal reconstruction of each mode component after decomposition are carried out. Finally, the Prony algorithm is used to identify the oscillation mode of the original signal and the reconstructed signal, respectively. The Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and model order are compared and analyzed. Through the analysis of the example and simulation data, it is shown that the proposed method effectively solves the problem of poor engineering adaptability of the traditional Prony algorithm. It also can accurately obtain the time-domain characteristics of broadband oscillation, which has a promising future in the engineering application.
NMR Untargeted and HPLC-MS/MS Targeted Metabolomic Approaches for Evaluating Styrene Exposure in the Urine of Shipyard Workers
Authors: Giampaoli Ottavia , Sciubba Fabio , Tranfo Giovanna , Sisto Renata , Pigini Daniela , De Rosa Michele , Patriarca Adriano , Miccheli Alfredo , Fetoni Anna Rita , Tricarico Laura , Spagnoli Mariangela
Published: February 2024

Due to its chemical properties, styrene is largely employed in the manufacturing of several products including rubber, polymers and resins, and it is particularly suitable for shipbuilding industry purposes. In this context, the main exposure to styrene occurs in occupational settings. Despite its widespread use, its long-term effects on human health at the occupational level are still unclear. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate changes in styrene exposure biomarkers related to the metabolic and oxidative stress profiles in the urine of seventeen shipyard workers and seventeen non-exposed subjects. Urinary metabolites were assessed by means of NMR spectroscopy, including mandelic and phenylglyoxylic acids; four oxidative stress biomarkers, namely 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine, 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanosine, and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine and 3-nitrotyrosine, were evaluated via HPLC-MS/MS. The metabolic profiles of exposed workers showed both long- and short-term metabolic responses to styrene exposure compared to non-exposed subjects. From the comparison between non-exposed and before-shift workers, only 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine levels were significantly different (long term exposure response). At the same time, comparing the non-exposed group with after-shift workers, we observed lower levels of pseudouridine and 1-methylnicotinamide and higher glutamine levels in after-shift workers. The comparison between before-shift and after-shift workers showed that 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine significantly increased after the shift, suggesting its involvement in the exposure to styrene (short-term exposure response). The obtained results, although preliminary, allow us to lay the basis for further human studies aimed at establishing a global understanding of styrene metabolism.
Advancing Endocrine Disruptors via In Vitro Evaluation: Recognizing the Significance of the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development and United States Environmental Protection Agency Guidelines, Embracing New Assessment Methods, and the Urgent Need for a Comprehensive Battery of Tests
Authors: Fouyet Sophie , Ferger Marie-Caroline , Leproux Pascale , Rat Patrice , Dutot Mélody
Published: February 2024

Efforts are being made globally to improve the evaluation and understanding of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Recognition of their impact on human health and the environment has stimulated attention and research in this field. Various stakeholders, including scientists, regulatory agencies, policymakers, and industry representatives, are collaborating to develop robust methodologies and guidelines for assessing these disruptors. A key aspect of these efforts is the development of standardized testing protocols and guidelines that aim to provide consistent and reliable methods for identifying and characterizing endocrine disruptors. When evaluating the potential endocrine-disrupting activity of chemicals, no single test is capable of detecting all relevant endocrine-disrupting agents. The test battery approach is designed to reduce the risk of false negative results for compounds with toxic potential. A weight-of-evidence approach is therefore necessary for endocrine disruptor evaluation. This approach considers various types of data from multiple sources, assessing the overall strength, consistency, and reliability of the evidence. OECD guidelines are highly regarded for their scientific rigor, transparency, and consensus-based development process. It is crucial to explore and develop new methodologies that can effectively evaluate the risks associated with potential endocrine disruptors. Integrating these methods into a comprehensive weight-of-evidence framework will enhance risk assessments and facilitate informed decisions regarding the regulation and management of these substances, ensuring the protection of human health and the environment from their adverse effects.
Pre-Emptive Kidney Retransplantation from Deceased Donors
Authors: Franco Esteve Antonio , Mas-Serrano Patricio , Marco Fransico Manuel , Garin Cascales Eduardo , Perez Contreras Francisco Javier
Published: February 2024

There is uncertainty about the best approach to replacement treatment for kidney transplant recipients with chronic terminal graft dysfunction, since a retransplant could be performed before the resumption of dialysis, thus avoiding this treatment and the dilemma of whether or not to suspend immunosuppressive therapy. However, there is limited experience in pre-emptive repeat transplantations, and none from deceased donors. This study aims to assess the results of a pre-emptive retransplantation program with brain-dead deceased donors. We designed a retrospective matched cohort study, including 36 recipients in the pre-dialysis group and 36 controls who were already on dialysis, matched for donor age and transplant date, which could not differ by more than 7 days between pairs. The variables used to standardize the cohorts were donor and recipient age and sex, blood group, duration of the first graft, time on the waitlist to receive the second graft, cold ischemia time, induction and maintenance of immunosuppression, and HLA antibodies (-) prior to retransplantation. The efficacy variables were early graft loss, acute rejection, delay in graft function, renal function at the end of follow-up, survival time, and recipient and graft survival at 24 and 48 months’ follow-up. The pre-dialysis group presented a significantly shorter waitlist time, lower immunization status, and a significantly longer duration of the first graft than the control group. The percentage of recipients who presented early graft loss, delayed renal function, or acute rejection was similar between groups. No significant differences were observed in kidney function or in the survival of the recipient or graft. Retransplantation yields good outcomes in patients with terminal chronic dysfunction, helping to avoid recurrence to dialysis, shortening the time spent on the waitlist, reducing the risk of producing antibodies, and resolving the dilemma of whether or not to stop immunosuppression.
The NDV-MLS as an Immunotherapeutic Strategy for Breast Cancer: Proof of Concept in Female Companion Dogs with Spontaneous Mammary Cancer
Authors: Sánchez Diana , Cesarman-Maus Gabriela , Romero Laura , Sánchez-Verin Rogelio , Vail David , Guadarrama Marina , Pelayo Rosana , Sarmiento-Silva Rosa Elena , Lizano Marcela
Published: February 2024

The absence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes negatively impacts the response to chemotherapy and prognosis in all subtypes of breast cancer. Therapies that stimulate a proinflammatory environment may help improve the response to standard treatments and also to immunotherapies such as checkpoint inhibitors. Newcastle disease virus (NDV) shows oncolytic activity, as well as immune modulating potential, in the treatment of breast cancer in vitro and in vivo; however, its potential to enhance tumor-infiltrating immune cells in breast cancer has yet to be evaluated. Since spontaneous canine mammary tumors represent a translational model of human breast cancer, we conducted this proof-of-concept study, which could provide a rationale for further investigating NDV-MLS as immunotherapy for mammary cancer. Six female companion dogs with spontaneous mammary cancer received a single intravenous and intratumoral injection of oncolytic NDV-MLS. Immune cell infiltrates were evaluated by histology and immunohistochemistry in the stromal, intratumoral, and peritumoral compartments on day 6 after viral administration. Increasing numbers of immune cells were documented post-viral treatment, mainly in the peritumoral compartment, where plasma cells and CD3+ and CD3-/CD79- lymphocytes predominated. Viral administration was well tolerated, with no significant adverse events. These findings support additional research on the use of NDV-MLS immunotherapy for mammary cancer.
A mRNA Vaccine for Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus Expressing Non-Fusion GnGc Using NSm Linker Elicits Unexpected Immune Responses in Mice
Authors: Chen Tong , Ding Zhe , Li Xuejie , Li Yingwen , Lan Jiaming , Wong Gary
Published: February 2024

Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), caused by Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic virus (CCHFV), is listed in the World Health Organization’s list of priority diseases. The high fatality rate in humans, the widespread distribution of CCHFV, and the lack of approved specific vaccines are the primary concerns regarding this disease. We used microfluidic technology to optimize the mRNA vaccine delivery system and demonstrated that vaccination with nucleoside-modified CCHFV mRNA vaccines encoding GnNSmGc (vLMs), Gn (vLMn), or Gc (vLMc) induced different immune responses. We found that both T-cell and B-cell immune responses induced by vLMc were better than those induced by vLMn. Interestingly, immune responses were found to be lower for vLMs, which employed NSm to link Gn and Gc for non-fusion expression, compared to those for vLMc. In conclusion, our results indicated that NSm could be a factor that leads to decreased specific immune responses in the host and should be avoided in the development of CCHFV vaccine antigens.
Objective Function Distortion Reduction in Identification Technique of Composite Material Elastic Properties
Authors: Ragauskas Paulius , Jasevičius Raimondas
Published: February 2024

In studies of structural mechanics, modal analysis, presented in this paper, is an important tool for analyzing the vibration of an object and its frequencies. In modal analysis, different modes of vibration and the frequencies that generate them are considered. The study covers the nondestructive identification of the elastic characteristics of materials, which involves stochastic algorithms and the application of reverse engineering (i.e., the comparison of reference eigenfrequencies with the results of mathematical models). Identification is achieved by minimizing the objective function—the smaller the value of the objective function, the higher the identification accuracy obtained. By changing the parameters of a material’s mathematical model during identification, certain (usually higher order) modes can change places in a natural frequency spectrum. This leads to the comparison of different order eigenfrequencies, slow convergence and poor accuracy of the identification process. The technique involved in this work is the mode-shape recognition of a specimen of material with an “incorrect” set of elastic properties. The results prove that the identification accuracy of a material’s elastic properties can be increased if an “incorrect” set of elastic properties is removed from the identification process. The research covers only numerical research, with a physical experiment simulation.
Toxic Element Contamination Sources in the Surface and Groundwater of the Elbrus Region: Geochemistry and Health Risks
Authors: Chelnokov George , Lavrushin Vasilii , Ermakov Aleksandr , Guo Qinghai , Aidarkozhina Altyn , Kharitonova Natalia , Bragin Ivan , Pavlov Andrey
Published: February 2024

The region surrounding the Elbrus volcano in the Great Caucasus is a popular tourist destination, home to native people and an area of the richest ore mineral resources. Based on the chemical composition of surface water, mineral, and groundwater in the Elbrus area, as well as statistical and thermodynamic calculations, waters with high concentrations of Mn, Cu, Zn, Mo, Ba, W, Pb, and As were identified, possible mineral phases that may lead to these metal concentrations in water were estimated, and risks to human health were assessed. Two main sources of surface water pollution have been identified: (1) water from tailings that are enriched due to oxidation of sulfide minerals is considered a source of As (181 µg/L) and Mo (2070 µg/L) pollution in the area of the Tyrnyauz W-Mo deposit; and (2) CO2-rich waters of deep horizons discharge on the earth surface with high concentrations of As (828 µg/L) and W (504 µg/L). It has been shown that compared to all toxic elements studied, only Mo and As have adverse non-carcinogenic effects on adult health. The estimated carcinogenic risk of As in the mine area was 1.7 × 10−3 and exceeded the generally accepted range of 10−4 to 10−6. In order to minimize the health risks, regular monitoring of water quality is required when mining activities on the Tyrnyauz W-Mo deposit are renewed.
Rice Terraces Enhanced the Hydrological Stability of Small Watershed with LUCC—A Case Study of Xinhua Basin
Authors: Deng Chuxiong , Li Yaqun , Liu Yaojun , Liu Changchang , Zhang Guangjie
Published: February 2024

Rice terraces are crucial for agriculture in China’s southern mountainous regions. Land use and land cover change (LUCC) in these areas impact hydrology, but our understanding is limited. In this study, we applied the hydrological assessment tool SWAT to a selected small watershed in the rice terrace-dense area of central Hunan province, China. This study covered four LUCC periods over the past 40 years and was simulated at annual and monthly scales. The results showed that from 1980 to 2020, the areas of paddy fields and drylands decreased by 4.19% and 5.76%, respectively, while the areas of forests and construction land increased by 1.14% and 92.48%, respectively. During the past period, LUCC led to a decrease of 1.77% and 2.49% in runoff and infiltration, respectively, and an increase of 1.03% in ET. However, the water yield remained almost unchanged, indicating that the rice terrace plays a positive role in maintaining stable watershed water yield under LUCC. The results of the sub-basin analysis indicated that the transformation of paddy fields and forests directly determines the trend of hydrological changes. Land use type had the most significant impact on the runoff of the rice-terrace watershed, with the proportions of paddy fields and forests being the most influential factors. Paddy fields significantly influenced the stability of runoff at the watershed scale, suggesting that a high paddy field ratio doesn’t ensure sustainability. This study offers valuable insights for managing small watershed terraces, land use planning, and achieving sustainable development in the watershed.