bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A LoRaWAN Multi-Technological Architecture for Construction Site Monitoring
Authors: Ragnoli Mattia , Colaiuda Davide , Leoni Alfiero , Ferri Giuseppe , Barile Gianluca , Rotilio Marianna , Laurini Eleonora , De Berardinis Pierluigi , Stornelli Vincenzo
Published: November 2022

It is necessary to ensure safety in terms of health and accidents through the real-time monitoring of the construction site environment and workers. This problem has become of great importance due to the economic and social implications. Therefore, a sensor-based approach has been found to be beneficial in Building Information Modeling (BIM). Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) technologies are well-suited for the deployment of monitoring systems. A suitable technical solution for node communication in a WSN is Long Range (LoRa) modulation technology. In this study, an autonomous LoRa-based system for the monitoring of a construction site in Lungro, Calabria, Italy, is presented. The spatial monitoring of working personnel is achieved by employing a tracker device with an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and a Global Positioning System (GPS) device. Accesses of personnel and gear to the site are registered using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags equipped with protective gear. Fixed-position solar-powered sensor nodes are also employed for structural monitoring, i.e., movement sensors are used to monitor the variation of scaffolding, building structures, and under-work housing inclinations. Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) gateways interface with the nodes and the internet for data exchange, enabling an Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm for the monitoring solution. A comprehensive overview of the workers and structural nodes, along with the RFID access management system and LoRaWAN gateway features, is provided in this article. A description of the web interface is also reported.
Focal DETR: Target-Aware Token Design for Transformer-Based Object Detection
Authors: Xie Tianming , Zhang Zhonghao , Tian Jing , Ma Lihong
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we propose a novel target-aware token design for transformer-based object detection. To tackle the target attribute diffusion challenge of transformer-based object detection, we propose two key components in the new target-aware token design mechanism. Firstly, we propose a target-aware sampling module, which forces the sampling patterns to converge inside the target region and obtain its representative encoded features. More specifically, a set of four sampling patterns are designed, including small and large patterns, which focus on the detailed and overall characteristics of a target, respectively, as well as the vertical and horizontal patterns, which handle the object’s directional structures. Secondly, we propose a target-aware key-value matrix. This is a unified, learnable, feature-embedding matrix which is directly weighted on the feature map to reduce the interference of non-target regions. With such a new design, we propose a new variant of the transformer-based object-detection model, called Focal DETR, which achieves superior performance over the state-of-the-art transformer-based object-detection models on the COCO object-detection benchmark dataset. Experimental results demonstrate that our Focal DETR achieves a 44.7 AP in the coco2017 test set, which is 2.7 AP and 0.9 AP higher than the DETR and deformable DETR using the same training strategy and the same feature-extraction network.
Pattern Classification Using Quantized Neural Networks for FPGA-Based Low-Power IoT Devices
Authors: Biswal Manas Ranjan , Delwar Tahesin Samira , Siddique Abrar , Behera Prangyadarsini , Choi Yeji , Ryu Jee-Youl
Published: November 2022

With the recent growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the demand for faster computation, quantized neural networks (QNNs) or QNN-enabled IoT can offer better performance than conventional convolution neural networks (CNNs). With the aim of reducing memory access costs and increasing the computation efficiency, QNN-enabled devices are expected to transform numerous industrial applications with lower processing latency and power consumption. Another form of QNN is the binarized neural network (BNN), which has 2 bits of quantized levels. In this paper, CNN-, QNN-, and BNN-based pattern recognition techniques are implemented and analyzed on an FPGA. The FPGA hardware acts as an IoT device due to connectivity with the cloud, and QNN and BNN are considered to offer better performance in terms of low power and low resource use on hardware platforms. The CNN and QNN implementation and their comparative analysis are analyzed based on their accuracy, weight bit error, RoC curve, and execution speed. The paper also discusses various approaches that can be deployed for optimizing various CNN and QNN models with additionally available tools. The work is performed on the Xilinx Zynq 7020 series Pynq Z2 board, which serves as our FPGA-based low-power IoT device. The MNIST and CIFAR-10 databases are considered for simulation and experimentation. The work shows that the accuracy is 95.5% and 79.22% for the MNIST and CIFAR-10 databases, respectively, for full precision (32-bit), and the execution time is 5.8 ms and 18 ms for the MNIST and CIFAR-10 databases, respectively, for full precision (32-bit).
Monitoring Heart Rate Variability and Its Association with High-Intensity Running, Psychometric Status, and Training Load in Elite Female Soccer Players during Match Weeks
Authors: Santos-García Daniel Juárez , Serrano David Recuenco , Ponce-Bordón José Carlos , Nobari Hadi
Published: November 2022

In order to maximize adaptations to reach high performance, sports coaches must regularly monitor the healing process following competitions or important training sessions and maintain psychometric status. As a result, the objective of this study was to track heart rate variability (HRV) in elite Spanish female soccer players during match weeks and examine its connection to high-intensity running, psychometric status, and training load. Changes in the nocturnal HRV measured along the square root of differences between adjacent RR intervals of 4 h (rMSSD 4 h) during the first phase of slow wave sleep (rMSSD 5 min), resting heart rate (RHR 4 h and RHR 5 min) were recorded with Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 (Firstbeat Technologies, Jyvaskyla, Finland). Training and match loads were recorded with rating perceived exertion and high-intensity running data by using a global positioning system (GPS) device (SPI-Pro X, GPSports). Ultimately, the psychometric test was recorded by a 5-item questionnaire, and all data were analyzed across three weeks of a competitive season. The day of the match found the lowest HRV, while the day following the match found a substantial (p < 0.01) rise in rMSSD 4 h and rMSSD 5 min. Similarly, these variables showed significant differences two days after the match. Similarly, these variables showed significant differences two days after the match. Furthermore, significant differences were found between the RHR 4 h and RHR 5 min (p < 0.01) and rMSSD 4 h and rMSSD 5 min (p < 0.05) and variables after two days with a higher training load. The results gathered from the psychometric tests, and the various HR markers showed significant associations. As a result, HRV, RHR, and psychometric assessments are probably sensitive to changes in load within a microcycle, providing a straightforward and non-invasive technique to assess changes in the recovery/fatigue status of top-level female soccer players.
Analysis of Post-Exercise Acute Hemodynamic Sustainability in Different Training Methods in Paralympic Powerlifting Athletes
Authors: de Jesus Joseane Barbosa , Aidar Felipe J. , de Souza Leite Junior Joilson Alves , Menezes Jainara Lima , Silva Ana Filipa , Carvutto Roberto , Poli Luca , Cataldi Stefania , Messina Giulia , Banja Fernandes Tulio Luiz , Greco Gianpiero , Fischetti Francesco
Published: November 2022

Background: Paralympic powerlifting (PP) is one of the sports modalities that uses strength training with high loads, causing various physiological responses resulting from hemodynamic adaptations. Objective: To evaluate hemodynamic responses after traditional (TT) and eccentric (ET) training sessions in PP athletes. Methods: Twelve national-level PP athletes, aged: (Mean ± SD) 30.8 ± 10.05 years; 70.0 ± 16.1 kg. In the intervention, five sets of five repetitions (5 × 5) of the bench press at 80% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) were used; in the TT and in the ET, 5 × 5 of the bench press with a load in the eccentric phase of 110% and that in the concentric phase of 80% of 1RM were used. Results: Compared to baseline, heart rate was significantly elevated at various times in the ET, between before and 20 min after (p = 0.023), and 40 min after (p = 0.035), but decreased to baseline in 24 h (p = 0.043, η2p = 0.395). In addition, the product pressure rate in the ET had a decrease between the moments before and 60 min after (p = 0.042), and before and 24 h after (p = 0.043). A high effect on myocardial oxygen volume in ET at 24 h was found (p = 0.018; η2p = 0.393). Conclusions: One session of traditional and eccentric training methods can be effective in causing significant changes in the cardiovascular system in PP athletes.
How to Achieve Sustainably Beneficial Uses of Marine Sediments in Colombia?
Authors: González Cano Wendy Tatiana , Kim Kyoungrean
Published: November 2022

Marine sediments may easily accumulate contaminants, posing a high risk to human health and biota. Beneficial use applications exist for natural sediments and sediments contaminated with organic and inorganic pollutants. In this research, the term marine sediments (MSs) was used to refer to all marine sediments, which could be clean, natural marine sediments, as well as contaminated marine sediments and dredged materials, as the main focus of this research. Sediment remediation often involves costly and time-consuming processes. Assessment frameworks are essential for selecting suitable remediation alternatives for MSs. This research aims to provide regulatory frameworks for the sustainable beneficial use of all marine sediments. No studies have been reported on this issue in Colombia until now. The current states of marine sediments on the Colombian Caribbean Coast were mainly investigated. Concentrations of specific harmful heavy metals (HHMs) in Colombia’s sediments were higher than the environmental standards of various nations. Ex situ remediation technologies were evaluated through cost–benefit analysis and environmental feasibility to be adopted in Colombia. The results identified solidification/stabilization (S/S) as promising technologies. Sustainable remediation of MSs may offer ample opportunities for environmental enhancement and economic benefits. Continuous research and adopting appropriate environmental regulations, such as the London Protocol 1996, would contribute to effectively managing all marine sediments in Colombia. More innovative and cost-effective remediation technologies with beneficial uses would still be needed. Decision makers may use the proposed frameworks to select optimal remediation alternatives and implement sustainable MSs management by achieving their beneficial uses.
Specification and Classification of Pelletised Dried Sewage Sludge: Identifying Its Key Properties as a Renewable Material for Enabling Environmentally Non-Harmful Energy Utilisation
Authors: Mislej Vesna , Novosel Barbara
Published: November 2022

Renewable active sludge is a smart material for wastewater treatment and the protection of surface water bodies. The generated pellets (dried and pelletised dehydrated anaerobically stabilised excess sludge) are produced in a quantity of 31.4 ± 5.6 g dry matter (DM) per one Population equivalent (PE) calculated to COD (PECOD) in one day. As pellets are combustible material, their energy utilisation must reach the sustainable development goals (SDGs)—a bridge must be created between “treated sewage sludge as the tool to remove pollutants and nutrients from wastewater” and “preparation of the valuable material as a solid recovered fuel (SRF) that meets customer-specific requirements”. Technical Report CEN/TR 15508 and Technical Standard EN ISO 21640 set up methods for specifying and classifying pellets as an SRF. In the last eleven years (2010–2021), pellets’ net calorific value (NCV) is 13.0 ± 0.7 MJ kg−1 as received (ar). In 2021, the 80th percentile of the Hg/NCV ratio was 0.079 mg Hg MJ−1. In 2010–2021, the annual amount of Hg transferred to stakeholders reduced by 64.3% m/m—from 10.1 kg to 3.67 kg. The halogen contents of the pellets do not threaten corrosion to the incineration facility. Stable pellets’ energy potential and perspective ash composition for critical raw materials recovery qualify pellets as a specific waste stream and a renewable material for SRF production.
A Review on the Impact of High-Temperature Treatment on the Physico-Mechanical, Dynamic, and Thermal Properties of Granite
Authors: Paul Soumen , Chattopadhyaya Somnath , Raina A. K. , Sharma Shubham , Li Changhe , Zhang Yanbin , Kumar Amit , Tag-Eldin Elsayed
Published: November 2022

Temperature changes have significant effects on rock properties. The changes in properties vary for different rocks with different temperature ranges. Granite is an igneous type of rock that is common in India and is frequently used for construction and domestic purposes. Granite is mainly composed of quartz and feldspar and shows a considerable response to temperature changes and is the subject of this paper. A comprehensive review of the published literature has been conducted in this paper. Comparison of the findings of such works in terms of the impact of temperature changes on basic mechanical, physical, and thermal properties of granite, viz. thermal damage, density, p-wave velocity, compressive strength, peak stress, peak strain, and Young’s modulus from room temperature to 1000 °C has been conducted. The published data of different researchers have been utilized for such comparison. The study revealed that there is a significant departure in response to the rock recorded by various researchers, which may be due to the constitution of the rocks analyzed or experimental procedures. This points to the standardization of such tests. The main reason for changes in the properties of granite has also been discussed. Consequently, the findings of this state-of-the-art demonstrate that the heating effects of granite on its physical and mechanical properties become increasingly pronounced with increasing pick temperatures. The purpose of this article is to provide readers with an extremely well-structured, seamless environment that facilitates a critical assessment of granite in order to determine its thermal profile.
The Impact of Urbanization on Carbon Emissions and Spatial–Temporal Differentiation Based on Meta-Analysis in China
Authors: Li Ang , Li Xiaofan , Li Yi , Wang Hui , Zhang Hong
Published: November 2022

Urbanization and carbon emissions have received more attention in the context of “double carbon”, but the existing research on the relationship between the two has not reached a consistent conclusion. By introducing meta-regression analysis, based on the existing research results, this paper retests the relationship between urbanization and carbon emissions, and discusses the reasons for the differences in previous research results from the perspectives of publication bias and research heterogeneity. The results show that (1) urbanization in China has a strong positive impact on carbon emissions and meets the inverted U-shaped Kuznets curve relationship, and (2) there are significant temporal and spatial differences in the impact of urbanization on carbon emissions in China. Temporally, the positive impact is the strongest in the first decade of the 21st century, and in regional terms, the positive impact is the strongest in the eastern region. In addition, the selection of indicators will not interfere with the measurement of the impact of urbanization on carbon emissions.
Sewage Sludge Biorefinery for Circular Economy
Authors: Cecconet Daniele , Capodaglio Andrea G.
Published: November 2022

Sewage sludge processing and disposal have a significant weight on the energy and economic balances of wastewater treatment operations and contribute substantially to greenhouse gas emissions related to wastewater processing. Despite this, sewage sludge contains substantial recoverable resources in the form of energy and useful molecules. The current challenge, other than reducing the environmental and economic impacts of its disposal, is to recover energy and materials from this waste stream, implementing a biosolid-centered circular economy with the greatest possible added value. A number of options along these lines exist, and others are being investigated, ranging from biological processes, thermochemical technologies, bioelectrochemical processing, biorefineries and others. Recoverable resources comprise biogas from sludge fermentation, liquid and solid end products (e.g., biodiesel and biochar) and valuable nutrients (N and P). This paper presents a state of the art of biorefinery, with emphasis on recent developments in non-conventional resource recovery from EBSS streams for sludge-based circular economy implementation. Expectations and limitations, including technological readiness, of these technologies are discussed.
Research on the Impact of the Digital Economy on China’s New-Type Urbanization: Based on Spatial and Mediation Models
Authors: Chen Linxiong , Zhong Changbiao , Li Chong
Published: November 2022

In the context of sustainable development, how the digital economy affects the development of new-type urbanization is a matter of concern. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2011 to 2020, this article empirically explores the effect of the digital economy on the quality of new-type urbanization development. The results show the following. (1) The digital economy can significantly improve the development quality of new-type urbanization, which is still significantly valid after a series of robustness tests. (2) The mechanism analysis shows that the upgrading of industrial structures is an important transmission path for the digital economy to improve the quality of new-type urbanization development. (3) The spatial effect analysis shows that the development of the digital economy can not only significantly improve the quality of new-type urbanization development in this region, but also improve the quality of new-type urbanization development in surrounding areas through spillover effects. (4) The heterogeneity analysis shows that the development of the digital economy in the central and western provinces of China and in the big data pilot provinces plays a greater role in promoting the quality of new-type urbanization development. It is clear that the construction of new-type urbanization should fully consider the development trend of the digital economy, seize the policy and the technological dividends brought about by the digital economy, and explore more development opportunities.
Transformative Change Needs Direction
Authors: Jacobs Sander , Santos-Martín Fernando , Primmer Eeva , Boeraeve Fanny , Morán-Ordóñez Alejandra , Proença Vânia , Schlaepfer Martin , Brotons Lluis , Dunford Robert , Lavorel Sandra , Guisan Antoine , Claudet Joachim , Harmáčková Zuzana V. , Liekens Inge , Hauck Jennifer , Kok Kasper , Zinngrebe Yves , Pedde Simona , Czúcz Bálint , Solidoro Cosimo , Cantele Matthew , Rixen Christian , Heck Anna , Desair Jomme , Plieninger Tobias , Harrison Paula A.
Published: November 2022

Comparing the impacts of future scenarios is essential for developing and guiding the political sustainability agenda. This review-based analysis compares six IPBES scenarios for their impacts on 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 20 biodiversity targets (Aichi targets) for the Europe and Central Asia regions. The comparison is based on a review of 143 modeled scenarios synthesized in a plural cost–benefit approach which provides the distances to multiple policy goals. We confirm and substantiate the claim that transformative change is vital but also point out which directions for political transformation are to be preferred. The hopeful message is that large societal losses might still be avoided, and multiple benefits can be generated over the coming decades and centuries. Yet, policies will need to strongly steer away from scenarios based on regional competition, inequality, and economic optimism.
Research on the Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Logistics Enterprises in Xinjiang and the Influencing Factors Based on POI Data
Authors: Lv Pengcheng , Li Xiaodong , Zhang Haoyu , Liu Xiang , Kong Lingzhang
Published: November 2022

Based on the POI data of logistics enterprises in Xinjiang in 2012, 2016, and 2020, the ArcGIS spatial analysis technique, geographic detector, and other methods were used for the quantitative analysis of the spatial and temporal distributions of logistics enterprises in Xinjiang during 2012–2020 and the influencing factors. The following findings were obtained in the present study: (1) there was a significant difference in the distributions of logistics enterprises in Xinjiang at different development stages, with unbalance among areas; further, there was a higher number of logistics enterprises in Northern Xinjiang compared with Southern Xinjiang; (2) the spatial distribution of logistics enterprises in Xinjiang was generally characterized by a “northeast–southwest” trend; there was a periodic shift in the distribution center from northeast to southwest; the distribution center remained in Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture in 2012 and 2020, and shifted to Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture in 2016, close to the junction of the two areas; (3) the agglomeration of logistics enterprises in Xinjiang was positively correlated with the scale; the kernel density analysis results revealed that there was obvious spatial differentiation characterized by “multi-center development with core agglomeration and patch distribution at the edge”, and the hotspot areas of logistics enterprises were distributed in major cities, with small variations; the Tianshan Mountain North Slope Economic Belt was the main agglomeration area of logistics enterprises; (4) the results from the geographic detector show that the regional GDP, regional total retail sales of consumer goods, regional utilization of foreign direct investment, and regional fixed assets investment were factors that influenced the spatial distribution of logistics enterprises in Xinjiang, thereby significantly promoting the stable and rapid development of logistics enterprises.
A Summary Analysis of Groundwater Vulnerability to Climate Variability and Anthropic Activities in the Haouz Region, Morocco
Authors: El Bouazzaoui Imane , Ait Brahim Yassine , El Khalki El Mahdi , Najmi Adam , Bougadir Blaid
Published: November 2022

The Haouz aquifer is undergoing climatic aridity and anthropic pressure largely related to the agricultural sector. In this study, special attention was given to the main factors that have a direct impact on the fluctuations of the piezometric level (PL). Different statistical analyses (cross-correlations, PCA, cascading analysis) of the relationship between these factors were applied here. The results identify three distinct groundwater operating systems. The first is manifested in areas dominated by groundwater irrigation. The correlation is insignificant between the PL and surface water (R ≤ ±0.3). The natural balance of the water cycle is then disturbed causing a pronounced deficit in the PL. The second system is perceptible in areas dominated by irrigation from surface water, while the third system is noticeable in Bour areas, cultivated in rainfed mode. For both systems, the hydrological cycle is preserved, and the contribution of surface water to groundwater recharge is noticeable (±0.4 ≤ R ≤ ±1). Drought transfer between the water cycle components occurs in a cascading process for both systems. These results can help decision-makers to identify the risks related to groundwater vulnerability to climatic variability and overexploitation in the Haouz region, allowing for the promotion of efficient groundwater management.
Multi-Criteria Analysis for Evaluating Constructed Wetland as a Sustainable Sanitation Technology, Jordan Case Study
Authors: Masoud Ahmed M. N. , Belotti Marika , Alfarra Amani , Sorlini Sabrina
Published: November 2022

There is a growing demand for integrating an assessment tool to select wastewater treatment alternatives based on sustainability in the Jordanian wastewater sector. The sector in Jordan has a unique and critical situation that has raised concerns among stakeholders, including donors, and international and national organizations, to carefully select a sustainable treatment system for each case. The Jordanian government set a tool to distinguish between treatment systems, and this tool is mainly focused on financial criteria. However, the sector needs to integrate assessment tools with a wider consideration of other sustainability criteria. Usually, stakeholders are not equipped with a clear methodology to perform sustainability assessments. Therefore, this study proposes and develops a Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) tool to evaluate wastewater treatment alternatives from a sustainability perspective for a case study in Jordan—Al Azraq town. Firstly, the study explored the decision and organizational context of the wastewater sector through several interviews. Secondly, assessment criteria and indicators were proposed to compare three proposed treatment alternatives. Finally, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was applied with composite scores to evaluate wastewater treatment alternatives. Finally, The results of the composite scores indicated that French Constructed Wetland (FCW) was the best option for this case study, with a score of 3.13, followed by Stabilization Pond (SP) as the second sustainable option, with a score of 2.67, and lastly, Activated Sludge (AS), with a score of 2.07. Several conclusions have been highlighted during the process development, such as the importance of selecting sustainability indicators carefully, and engaging stakeholders during the design and implementation of the assessment.
Co-Management Practices by Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) in Selected Coastal Forest Zones of Bangladesh: A Focus on Sustainability
Authors: Khan Niaz Ahmed , Choudhury Junaid Kabir , Rashid A. Z. M. Manzoor , Siddique Mohammad Raqibul Hasan , Sinha Karishma
Published: November 2022

There has been an upsurge concerning the concept and application of “co-management” in the governance of natural resources in Bangladesh in recent years. Notwithstanding the popularity of co-management, however, the overall approach to implementation has been overtly technical in nature; and there has been limited attention to sustainability dynamics. This article aims to explore aspects policy and practice withinco-management based on several purposely selected cases in the coastal forest zones of Bangladesh. It also identifies the major challenges and issues concerning its sustainability. The lessons generated by this study may be relevant to both policy makers and practitioners. A qualitative research approach was adopted with empirical data collection methods including key informant interviews, focus group discussions, documentary research, and unstructured personal observation. The article begins with a recapitulation of the concept of co-management and its associations with sustainability, followed by an overview of the major co-management practices in Bangladesh. The discussion subsequently raises lessons learned and key issues relating to sustainability, including: the need for sorting out land-related tenurial complications and institutions used in co-management; unequal awareness of the concept of co-management and varying levels of participation of community organizations; the political interface and accountability of co-management institutions; issues of “ownership” at the community level; and the role of “external” support and facilitation. As a recently developed concept and practice, co-management seems to be rapidly taking root and displaying signs of gradual consolidation in Bangladesh. Considerable progress has been made in terms of required policy and legislative reforms, community level institution building, and a degree of change in the mindset of the government agencies to accommodate and nurture co-management. However, numerous issues (e.g., tenurial rights, effective community participation, equity, political dynamics, adequate financial support, accountability, and transparency) still need to be resolved if sustainability is to be fully achieved and satisfy the hopes and needs of local communities both now and in the future.
Diffusion of Cement Kiln Co-Processing of Contaminated Soil in Selected Provinces of China: Engineering Practices, Modeling, and Driving Factors
Authors: Liang Tian , Yang Bin , Deng Chenning , Du Ping , Wang Tuqiang , Zhou Hongxing , Wang Panpan , Yu Jingjing , Ding Aizhong , Ma Fujun , Gu Qingbao , Li Fasheng
Published: November 2022

Promoting the diffusion of remediation technologies is an attractive solution to environmental protection and urban sustainability challenges. To better understand technology diffusion, we reviewed the engineering practices of cement kiln co-processing (CKC) of contaminated soil and obtained diffusion parameters using the Bass model in three provinces of China. Our results show that CKC has been adopted for the disposal of multiple contaminants and that the optimal feed rate of contaminated soil is 4–5%. The obtained diffusion parameters can be used to analyze and predict CKC diffusion. Driving factors analysis suggest that CKC diffusion is regulation-driven and obeys the S-curve pattern. Policies at the national level shape the basic pattern of the diffusion curve, while local policies, market scales, and contaminant types produce variations in diffusion rates across provinces. Results also reveal that the co-processing quota management on contaminated soil has little impact on CKC adoption. This study provides insights into contaminated soil remediation technology diffusion and the effectiveness of environmental policy implementation at home and abroad.
A Blockchain-Assisted Trusted Clustering Mechanism for IoT-Enabled Smart Transportation System
Authors: Awan Kamran Ahmad , Din Ikram Ud , Almogren Ahmad
Published: November 2022

Vehicular Ad-hoc Network (VANET) is a modern concept of transportation that was formulated by extending Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANETs). VANET presents diverse opportunities to modernize transportation to enhance safety, security, and privacy. Direct communication raises various limitations, most importantly, the overhead ratio. The most prominent solution proposed is to divide these nodes into clusters. In this paper, we propose a clustering mechanism that provides security and maintains quality after the cluster formulation based on the pre-defined Quality-of-Service (QoS) parameters. To address potential attacks in the VANET environment, the proposed mechanism uses blockchain to encrypt the trust parameters’ computation. A particular trust degree of a vehicle is evaluated by the base station, encrypted with the blockchain approach, and transmitted toward roadside units (RSUs) for further utilization. The system’s performance is evaluated and compared with the existing approaches. The results show a significant improvement in terms of security and clustering quality.
Cubic-Quartic Optical Solitons in Fiber Bragg Gratings with Dispersive Reflectivity Having Parabolic Law of Nonlinear Refractive Index by Lie Symmetry
Authors: Malik Sandeep , Kumar Sachin , Biswas Anjan , Yıldırım Yakup , Moraru Luminita , Moldovanu Simona , Iticescu Catalina , Alshehri Hashim M.
Published: November 2022

This work recovers cubic-quartic optical solitons with dispersive reflectivity in fiber Bragg gratings and parabolic law of nonlinearity. The Lie symmetry analysis first reduces the governing partial differential equations to the corresponding ordinary differential equations which are subsequently integrated. This integration is conducted using two approaches which are the modified Kudryashov’s approach as well as the generalized Arnous’ scheme. These collectively yielded a full spectrum of cubic-quartic optical solitons that have been proposed to control the depletion of the much-needed chromatic dispersion. They range from bright, dark, singular to combo solitons. These solitons are considered with dispersive reflectivity, which maintains the necessary balance between chromatic dispersion and nonlinear refractive index structure for an uninterrupted transmission of solitons along intercontinental distances. Their respective surface and contour plots are also exhibited. A few closing words are included with some prospective future avenues of research to extend this topic further.
Fabric Surface Defect Detection Using SE-SSDNet
Authors: Zhao Hanqing , Zhang Tuanshan
Published: November 2022

For fabric defect detection, the crucial issue is that large defects can be detected but not small ones, and vice versa, and this symmetric contradiction cannot be solved by a single method, especially for colored fabrics. In this paper, we propose a method based on a combination of two networks, SE and SSD, namely the SE-SSD Net method. The model is based on the SSD network and adds the SE module for squeezing and the Excitation module after its convolution operation, which is used to increase the weight of the model for the feature channels containing defect information while re-preserving the original network to extract feature maps of different scales for detection. The global features are then subjected to the Excitation operation to obtain the weights of different channels, which are multiplied by the original features to form the final features so that the model can pay more attention to the channel features with a large amount of information. In this way, large-scale feature maps can be used to detect small defects, while small-scale feature maps are used to detect relatively large defects, thus solving the asymmetry problem in detection. The experimental results show that our proposed algorithm can detect six different defects in colored fabrics, which basically meets the practical needs.
Optimized Implementation of Simpira on Microcontrollers for Secure Massive Learning
Authors: Sim Minjoo , Eum Siwoo , Kwon Hyeokdong , Jang Kyungbae , Kim Hyunjun , Kim Hyunji , Song Gyeongju , Lee Waikong , Seo Hwajeong
Published: November 2022

Internet of Things (IoT) technology, in which numerous devices cooperate, has a significant impact on existing industries, such as smart factories, smart cars, and smart cities. Massive learning and computing using data collected through the IoT are also being actively performed in these industries. Therefore, the security of low-end microcontrollers used in the Internet of Things should be highly considered due to their importance. Simpira Permutation is a Permutation design using the AES algorithm designed to run efficiently on 64-bit high-end processors. With the efficient implementation of Simpira algorithm, we can ensure secure massive learning in IoT devices without performance bottleneck. In nature, Simpira exploited the part of AES algorithm. The AES algorithm is the most widely used in the world, and Intel has developed hardware accelerated AES instruction set (AES-NI) to improve the performance of encryption. By using AES-NI modules, Simpira can be improved further on high-end devices. On the other hand, low-end processors do not support AES-NI modules. For this reason, an optimized implementation of efficient Simpira should be considered. In this paper, we present an optimized implementation of Simpira on 8-bit AVR microcontrollers and 32-bit RISC-V processors, which are low-end processors that do not support AES-NI features. There are three new techniques applied. First, Addroundkey is computed efficiently through pre-computation. Second, it takes advantage of the characteristics of round keys to omit some of the operations. Third, we omit unnecessary operations added to use AES-NI features. We have carried out performance evaluations on 8-bit ATmega128 microcontrollers and 32-bit RISC-V processors, which show up-to 5.76× and 37.01× better performance enhancements than the-state-of-art reference C codes for the Simpira, respectively.
Cuspidothrix Is the First Genetically Proved Anatoxin A Producer in Bulgarian Lakes and Reservoirs
Authors: Stoyneva-Gärtner Maya , Stefanova Katerina , Uzunov Blagoy , Radkova Mariana , Gärtner Georg
Published: November 2022

The paper presents the first proof of planktonic cyanoprokaryote genus Cuspidothrix as an anatoxin A (ATX) producer in Bulgarian wetlands. The results from polymerase chain reaction (PCR) obtained from two summer sampling campaigns in 26 selected lakes and reservoirs demonstrated presence of the anaC gene, responsible for ATX production in 21 strains of the genus. They were found in three waterbodies sampled in 2018 (coastal lake Vaya, coastal reservoir Poroy, inland reservoir Sinyata Reka) and in four waterbodies sampled in 2019 (inland reservoirs Duvanli, Koprinka, Plachidol 2, Sinyata Reka). The detected genetic diversity generally corresponds to the observations conducted by conventional light microscopy, by which we distinguished three species of Cuspidothrix (Cuspidothrix issatschenkoi, Cuspidothrix elenkinii and Cuspidothrix tropicalis, the latter considered alien in the country). Eleven strains showed high similarity to two sequences of C. issatschenkoi available from the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Ten other strains assembled in a group, which—in lack of available from NCBI genetic sequences—were presumed related to C. tropicalis and C. elenkinii after comparison with the results from light microscopy. Cuspidothrix strains found in Bulgarian waterbodies showed high genetic similarity to those isolated and sequenced from Asia (Japan, China) and Northern Europe (Norway, Finland).
The Medium Cut-Off Membrane Does Not Lower Protein-Bound Uremic Toxins
Authors: Kim Yang Gyun , Lee Sang Ho , Jung Su Woong , Jung Gun Tae , Lim Hyun Ji , Kim Kwang Pyo , Jo Young-Il , Jin KyuBok , Moon Ju Young
Published: November 2022

The accumulation of protein-bound uremic toxins (PBUT) is associated with increased cardiovascular outcomes in patients on dialysis. However, the efficacy of PBUT removal for a medium-cutoff (MCO) membrane has not been clarified. This study was designed to assess the efficacy of PBUT clearance according to dialysis modalities. In this prospective and cross-over study, we enrolled 22 patients who received maintenance hemodiafiltration (HDF) thrice weekly from three dialysis centers. The dialysis removal of uremic toxins, including urea, beta 2-microglobulin (B2MG), lambda free light chain (λ-FLC), indoxyl sulfate (IS), and p-cresyl sulfate (pCS), was measured in the 22 patients on high-flux HD (HF-HD), post-dilution online HDF (post-OL-HDF), and MCO-HD over 3 weeks. The average convection volume in post-OL-HDF was 21.4 ± 1.8 L per session. The reduction rate (RR) of B2MG was higher in post-OL-HDF than in MCO-HD and HF-HD. The RR of λ-FLC was the highest in MCO-HD, followed by post-OL-HDF and HF-HD. The dialysate albumin was highest in MCO-HD, followed by post-OL-HDF and HF-HD. Post-dialysis plasma levels of IS and pCS were not statistically different across dialysis modalities. The total solute removal and dialytic clearance of IS and pCS were not significantly different. The clearance of IS and pCS did not differ between the HF-HD, post-OL-HDF, and MCO-HD groups.
Evaluation of Zearalenones and Their Metabolites in Chicken, Pig and Lamb Liver Samples
Authors: Llorens Castelló Paula , Sacco Matteo Antonio , Aquila Isabella , Moltó Cortés Juan Carlos , Juan García Cristina
Published: November 2022

Zearalenone (ZON), zearalanone (ZAN) and their phase I metabolites: α-zearalenol (α-ZOL), β-zearalenol (β-ZOL), α-zearalalanol (α-ZAL) and β-zearalalanol (β-ZAL) are compounds with estrogenic activity that are metabolized and distributed by the circulatory system in animals and can access the food chain through meat products from livestock. Furthermore, biomonitoring of zearalenones in biological matrices can provide useful information to directly assess mycotoxin exposure; therefore, their metabolites may be suitable biomarkers. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of ZON, ZAN and their metabolites in alternative biological matrices, such as liver, from three different animals: chicken, pig and lamb, in order to evaluate their exposure. A solid–liquid extraction procedure coupled to a GC-MS/MS analysis was performed. The results showed that 69% of the samples were contaminated with at least one mycotoxin or metabolite at varying levels. The highest value (max. 152.62 ng/g of β-ZOL) observed, and the most contaminated livers (42%), were the chicken liver samples. However, pig liver samples presented a high incidence of ZAN (33%) and lamb liver samples presented a high incidence of α-ZOL (40%). The values indicate that there is exposure to these mycotoxins and, although the values are low (ranged to 0.11–152.6 ng/g for α-ZOL and β-ZOL, respectively), analysis and continuous monitoring are necessary to avoid exceeding the regulatory limits and to control the presence of these mycotoxins in order to protect animal and human health.
Enteroviruses Manipulate the Unfolded Protein Response through Multifaceted Deregulation of the Ire1-Xbp1 Pathway
Authors: Shishova Anna , Dyugay Ilya , Fominykh Ksenia , Baryshnikova Victoria , Dereventsova Alena , Turchenko Yuriy , Slavokhotova Anna A. , Ivin Yury , Dmitriev Sergey E. , Gmyl Anatoly
Published: November 2022

Many viruses are known to trigger endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in host cells, which in turn can develop a protective unfolded protein response (UPR). Depending on the conditions, the UPR may lead to either cell survival or programmed cell death. One of three UPR branches involves the upregulation of Xbp1 transcription factor caused by the unconventional cytoplasmic splicing of its mRNA. This process is accomplished by the phosphorylated form of the endoribonuclease/protein kinase Ire1/ERN1. Here, we show that the phosphorylation of Ire1 is up-regulated in HeLa cells early in enterovirus infection but down-regulated at later stages. We also find that Ire1 is cleaved in poliovirus- and coxsackievirus-infected HeLa cells 4–6 h after infection. We further show that the Ire1-mediated Xbp1 mRNA splicing is repressed in infected cells in a time-dependent manner. Thus, our results demonstrate the ability of enteroviruses to actively modulate the Ire1-Xbp1 host defensive pathway by inducing phosphorylation and proteolytic cleavage of the ER stress sensor Ire1, as well as down-regulating its splicing activity. Inactivation of Ire1 could be a novel mode of the UPR manipulation employed by viruses to modify the ER stress response in the infected cells.
Rift Valley Fever Virus Non-Structural Protein S Is Associated with Nuclear Translocation of Active Caspase-3 and Inclusion Body Formation
Authors: Michaely Lukas Mathias , Rissmann Melanie , Armando Federico , von Arnim Felicitas , Keller Markus , Eiden Martin , König Rebecca , Gutjahr Benjamin , Baumgärtner Wolfgang , Groschup Martin H. , Ulrich Reiner
Published: November 2022

Rift Valley fever phlebovirus (RVFV) causes Rift Valley fever (RVF), an emerging zoonotic disease that causes abortion storms and high mortality rates in young ruminants as well as severe or even lethal complications in a subset of human patients. This study investigates the pathomechanism of intranuclear inclusion body formation in severe RVF in a mouse model. Liver samples from immunocompetent mice infected with virulent RVFV 35/74, and immunodeficient knockout mice that lack interferon type I receptor expression and were infected with attenuated RVFV MP12 were compared to livers from uninfected controls using histopathology and immunohistochemistry for RVFV nucleoprotein, non-structural protein S (NSs) and pro-apoptotic active caspase-3. Histopathology of the livers showed virus-induced, severe hepatic necrosis in both mouse strains. However, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence revealed eosinophilic, comma-shaped, intranuclear inclusions and an intranuclear (co-)localization of RVFV NSs and active caspase-3 only in 35/74-infected immunocompetent mice, but not in MP12-infected immunodeficient mice. These results suggest that intranuclear accumulation of RVFV 35/74 NSs is involved in nuclear translocation of active caspase-3, and that nuclear NSs and active caspase-3 are involved in the formation of the light microscopically visible inclusion bodies.
Performance Analysis of an Eductor-Based Membrane Distillation Unit
Authors: Koirala Ravi , Ve Quoc Linh , Rupakheti Eliza , Inthavong Kiao , Date Abhijit
Published: November 2022

Thermal desalination technologies involve two primary processes: vapor generation from saline water, and effective recovery of the resulting condensate. Membrane distillation (MD) systems are among the emerging thermal desalination technologies which use a hydrophobic membrane to recover condensate through either direct or indirect contact (with the cooling fluid) condensation. The specific process technology (for thermal energy transfer and condensate recovery) depends on the type of MD. Direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) and vacuum membrane distillation (VMD) are two significant MD processes, with DCMD having the advantage of direct condensation and simple design, while VMD systems have high yield through sub-atmospheric vapor generation. This work focuses on developing an eductor-based MD process incorporating the strengths of both DCMD and VMD. It is an experimental study with a water jet eductor replacing the vacuum pump and condenser in a typical VMD system for active permeate vapor transfer and condensation. Unlike the exiting VMD systems, the proposed design recovers condensate by direct contact condensation. The sub-cooled water acts as a motive flow which entrains the secondary vapor into the stream, causing mass transfer via condensation at the interface. The modified VMD was found to have achieved better flux compared to the conventional VMD system. The performance of the eductor, sensitivity to parameters, and the practicality of the technology have been analyzed.