bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taste Masking of Dexketoprofen Trometamol Orally Disintegrating Granules by High-Shear Coating with Glyceryl Distearate
Authors: Chiarugi Ilaria , Biagi Diletta , Nencioni Paolo , Maestrelli Francesca , Valleri Maurizio , Mura Paola Angela
Published: January 2024

Orally disintegrating granules (ODGs) are a pharmaceutical form commonly used for the administration of NSAIDs because of their easy assumption and fast dispersion. The development of ODGs is not easy for drugs like dexketoprofen trometamol (DXKT), which have a bitter and burning taste. In this work, high-shear coating (HSC) was used as an innovative technique for DKXT taste masking. This study focused on coating DXKT granules using the HSC technique with a low-melting lipid excipient, glyceryl distearate (GDS). The HSC technique allowed for the coating to be developed through the thermal rise resulting from the friction generated by the granules movement inside the equipment, causing the coating excipient to soften. The design of the experiment was used to find the best experimental coating conditions in order to gain effective taste masking by suitably reducing the amount of drug released in the oral cavity. The influence of the granule dimensions was also investigated. Coating effectiveness was evaluated using a simulated saliva dissolution test. It was found that low impeller speed (300 rpm) and a 20% coating excipient were effective in suitably reducing the drug dissolution rate and then in taste masking. The coated granules were characterized for their morphology and solid-state properties by SEM, BET, XRPD, DSC, and NIR analyses. A human taste panel test confirmed the masking of DXKT taste in the selected batch granules.
Pulse Duration Compression by Two-Stage Stimulated Brillouin Scattering and Stimulated Raman Scattering
Authors: Han Xiaoyan , Liu Zhaohong , Li Shaowen , Li Sensen , Yang Zhongwei , Su Qiang , Zhang Yu , Bayanheshig  , Xia Yuanqin , Wang Yulei , Lu Zhiwei
Published: January 2024

A pulse duration compression technique that combines stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) was presented in this study, achieving an output pulse duration of 48.3 ps. The feasibility of this approach has been experimentally demonstrated. To be specific, a pulse duration of 7.4 ns is compressed to 48.3 ps with an energy of 5.27 mJ, and the energy efficiency of the SRS pulse duration compression system is up to 21.84%. Moreover, this study provides a practical method for reliably generating high-energy short pulses.
Comparative Analysis of the Effect of Gamma-, Electron, and Proton Irradiation on Transcriptomic Profile of Hordeum vulgare L. Seedlings: In Search for Molecular Contributors to Abiotic Stress Resilience
Authors: Prazyan Alexander , Podlutskii Mikhail , Volkova Polina , Kazakova Elizaveta , Bitarishvili Sofia , Shesterikova Ekaterina , Saburov Vyacheslav , Makarenko Ekaterina , Lychenkova Maria , Korol Marina , Kazakov Evgeniy , Moiseev Alexander , Geras’kin Stanislav , Bondarenko Ekaterina
Published: January 2024

The development of adaptation strategies for crops under ever-changing climate conditions is a critically important food security issue. Studies of barley responses to ionising radiation showed that this evolutionarily ancient stress factor can be successfully used to identify molecular pathways involved in adaptation to a range of abiotic stressors. In order to identify potential molecular contributors to abiotic stress resilience, we examined the transcriptomic profiles of barley seedlings after exposure to γ-rays, electrons, and protons. A total of 553 unique differentially expressed genes with increased expression and 124 with decreased expression were detected. Among all types of radiation, the highest number of differentially expressed genes was observed in electron-irradiated samples (428 upregulated and 56 downregulated genes). Significant upregulation after exposure to the three types of radiation was shown by a set of ROS-responsive genes, genes involved in DNA repair, cell wall metabolism, auxin biosynthesis and signalling, as well as photosynthesis-related genes. Most of these genes are known to be involved in plant ROS-mediated responses to other abiotic stressors, especially with genotoxic components, such as heavy metals and drought. Ultimately, the modulation of molecular pathways of plant responses to ionising radiation may be a prospective tool for stress tolerance programmes.
Effects of Different Ripening Stages on the Content of the Mineral Elements and Vitamin C of the Fruit Extracts of Solanum Species: S. melanocerasum, S. nigrum, S. villosum, and S. retroflexum
Authors: Staveckienė Jūratė , Medveckienė Brigita , Jarienė Elvyra , Kulaitienė Jurgita
Published: January 2024

Studies on the mineral and vitamin C contents of different species and ripening stages of Solanum fruits are very limited. The aim of the research was to evaluate the content of the mineral elements and vitamin C of four different Solanum species (S. melanocerasum—SM, S. nigrum—SN, S. villosum—SV and S. retroflexum—SR), and three ripening stages. The mineral composition of Solanum fruits was detected using a CEM MARS 6® (Matthews, NC, USA) digestion system outfitted with a 100 mL Teflon vessel, by microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). In total, eleven mineral elements were detected (K, Ca, Mg, P, Fe, Na, Cu, B, Mn, Al, and Zn). Vitamin C content was assessed by a spectrophotometric method. Depending on the ripening stage/species, content of microelements ranged from 756.48 mg kg−1 DW in SV fruits at ripening stage III, to 211.12 mg kg−1 DW in SM fruits at ripening stage III. The dominant microelement was Fe. The total content of macroelements in Solanum fruits ranged from 26,104.95 mg kg−1 DW in SV fruits at ripening stage II to 67,035.23 mg kg−1 DW in SR fruits at ripening stage I. The dominant macroelement was K. The data from two experimental years showed that the significantly highest content of vitamin C was in SM fruits and ranged from 48.15 mg 100 g−1 at ripening stage I to 45.10 mg 100 g−1 at ripening stage III.
Progress in Microbial Fertilizer Regulation of Crop Growth and Soil Remediation Research
Authors: Wang Tingting , Xu Jiaxin , Chen Jian , Liu Peng , Hou Xin , Yang Long , Zhang Li
Published: January 2024

More food is needed to meet the demand of the global population, which is growing continuously. Chemical fertilizers have been used for a long time to increase crop yields, and may have negative effect on human health and the agricultural environment. In order to make ongoing agricultural development more sustainable, the use of chemical fertilizers will likely have to be reduced. Microbial fertilizer is a kind of nutrient-rich and environmentally friendly biological fertilizer made from plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPR). Microbial fertilizers can regulate soil nutrient dynamics and promote soil nutrient cycling by improving soil microbial community changes. This process helps restore the soil ecosystem, which in turn promotes nutrient uptake, regulates crop growth, and enhances crop resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. This paper reviews the classification of microbial fertilizers and their function in regulating crop growth, nitrogen fixation, phosphorus, potassium solubilization, and the production of phytohormones. We also summarize the role of PGPR in helping crops against biotic and abiotic stresses. Finally, we discuss the function and the mechanism of applying microbial fertilizers in soil remediation. This review helps us understand the research progress of microbial fertilizer and provides new perspectives regarding the future development of microbial agent in sustainable agriculture.
Heat Stress-Tolerant Quantitative Trait Loci Identified Using Backcrossed Recombinant Inbred Lines Derived from Intra-Specifically Diverse Aegilops tauschii Accessions
Authors: Ahmed Monir Idres Yahya , Kamal Nasrein Mohamed , Gorafi Yasir Serag Alnor , Abdalla Modather Galal Abdeldaim , Tahir Izzat Sidahmed Ali , Tsujimoto Hisashi
Published: January 2024

In the face of climate change, bringing more useful alleles and genes from wild relatives of wheat is crucial to develop climate-resilient varieties. We used two populations of backcrossed recombinant inbred lines (BIL1 and BIL2), developed by crossing and backcrossing two intra-specifically diverse Aegilops tauschii accessions from lineage 1 and lineage 2, respectively, with the common wheat cultivar ‘Norin 61′. This study aimed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with heat stress (HS) tolerance. The two BILs were evaluated under heat stress environments in Sudan for phenology, plant height (PH), grain yield (GY), biomass (BIO), harvest index (HI), and thousand-kernel weight (TKW). Grain yield was significantly correlated with BIO and TKW under HS; therefore, the stress tolerance index (STI) was calculated for these traits as well as for GY. A total of 16 heat-tolerant lines were identified based on GY and STI-GY. The QTL analysis performed using inclusive composite interval mapping identified a total of 40 QTLs in BIL1 and 153 QTLs in BIL2 across all environments. We detected 39 QTLs associated with GY-STI, BIO-STI, and TKW-STI in both populations (14 in BIL1 and 25 in BIL2). The QTLs associated with STI were detected on chromosomes 1A, 3A, 5A, 2B, 4B, and all the D-subgenomes. We found that QTLs were detected only under HS for GY on chromosome 5A, TKW on 3B and 5B, PH on 3B and 4B, and grain filling duration on 2B. The higher number of QTLs identified in BIL2 for heat stress tolerance suggests the importance of assessing the effects of intraspecific variation of Ae. tauschii in wheat breeding as it could modulate the heat stress responses/adaptation. Our study provides useful genetic resources for uncovering heat-tolerant QTLs for wheat improvement for heat stress environments.
OsJAZ4 Fine-Tunes Rice Blast Resistance and Yield Traits
Authors: Zhang Mingfeng , Luo Xiao , He Wei , Zhang Min , Peng Zhirong , Deng Huafeng , Xing Junjie
Published: January 2024

JAZ proteins function as transcriptional regulators that form a jasmonic acid–isoleucine (JA-Ile) receptor complex with coronatine insensitive 1 (COI1) and regulate plant growth and development. These proteins also act as key mediators in signal transduction pathways that activate the defense-related genes. Herein, the role of OsJAZ4 in rice blast resistance, a severe disease, was examined. The mutation of OsJAZ4 revealed its significance in Magnaporthe oryzae (M. oryzae) resistance and the seed setting rate in rice. In addition, weaker M. oryzae-induced ROS production and expression of the defense genes OsO4g10010, OsWRKY45, OsNAC4, and OsPR3 was observed in osjaz4 compared to Nipponbare (NPB); also, the jasmonic acid (JA) and gibberellin4 (GA4) content was significantly lower in osjaz4 than in NPB. Moreover, osjaz4 exhibited a phenotype featuring a reduced seed setting rate. These observations highlight the involvement of OsJAZ4 in the regulation of JA and GA4 content, playing a positive role in regulating the rice blast resistance and seed setting rate.
Thermal Plasma Spheroidization and Characterization of Stainless Steel Powders Using Direct Current Plasma Technology
Authors: Iovane Pierpaolo , Borriello Carmela , Pandolfi Giuseppe , Portofino Sabrina , Rametta Gabriella , Tammaro Loredana , Fedele Nicola , Galvagno Sergio
Published: January 2024

The production of spherical powders has recently registered a boost due to the need to fabricate new printing materials for Additive Manufacturing applications, from polymers and resins to metals and ceramics. Among these materials, stainless steels powders play a leading role, since they are widely used in industry and everyday life; indeed, micron-sized spherical stainless steel powders have specific characteristics and are considered as one of the best candidates for Additive Manufacturing systems and for application in a wide range of sectors. In this paper, stainless steel 316 L powders were used to explore and identify the best process parameters of a thermal plasma process able to produce spherical powders for Additive Manufacturing applications. X-ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Particle Size Distribution and Flowability analysis were performed to characterize reagents and products. Powders with a high circularity (>0.8) and improved flowability (<30 s/50 g) were successfully obtained. The collected results were compared with data available from the literature to identify the potential use of the spherical produced powders.
Characterization of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)/Polyacrylic Acid (PAA) Composite Film-Forming Solutions and Resulting Films as Affected by Beeswax Content
Authors: Lim Woo Su , Kim Min Ha , Park Hyun Jin , Lee Min Hyeock
Published: January 2024

Recently, the food packaging industry has focused on developing an eco-friendly and sustainable food packaging system. This study describes the effect of beeswax on the physical, structural, and barrier properties of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polyacrylic acid (PAA) composite film. The incorporation of beeswax improved the barrier properties against oxygen, water, and oil. However, the addition of a high content of beeswax caused phase separation in the film-forming solution. The destabilization mechanisms such as clarification and creaming formation in the film-forming solution were revealed by turbidimetric analysis. The results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) indicates that non-homogeneous structures in the film-forming solution were formed as a function of increased beeswax content due to the agglomeration of beeswax. The mechanical properties of the films were also evaluated to determine the most appropriate content of beeswax. There was a slight decrease in tensile strength and an increase in elongation as beeswax content increased up to 10%. Thus, the PVA/PAA composite film with 10% beeswax was chosen for further applications. In summary, the PVA/PAA composite film developed in this study with 10% beeswax exhibited a significant improvement in barrier properties and has the potential for use in commerce.
Antiviral and Antibacterial 3D-Printed Products Functionalised with Poly(hexamethylene biguanide)
Authors: Luk Anson M. Y. , Lo Chris K. Y. , Chiou Jiachi Amber , Ngai Chi-Hang , Law Ki , Lau Tsz-Long , Chen Wan-Xue , Hui Matthew , Kan Chi-Wai
Published: January 2024

Infection prevention and public health are a vital concern worldwide, especially during pandemics such as COVID-19 and seasonal influenza. Frequent manual disinfection and use of chemical spray coatings at public facilities are the typical measures taken to protect people from coronaviruses and other pathogens. However, limitations of human resources and coating durability, as well as the safety of disinfectants used are the major concerns in society during a pandemic. Non-leachable antimicrobial agent poly(hexamethylene biguanide) (PHMB) was mixed into photocurable liquid resins to produce novel and tailor-made covers for public facilities via digital light processing, which is a popular 3D printing technique for satisfactory printing resolution. Potent efficacies of the 3D-printed plastics were achieved in standard antibacterial assessments against S. aureus, E. coli and K. pneumoniae. A total of 99.9% of Human coronavirus 229E was killed after being in contact with the 3D-printed samples (containing the promising PHMB formulation) for two hours. In an eight-week field test in Hong Kong Wetland Park, antibacterial performances of the specially designed 3D-printed covers analysed by environmental swabbing were also found to be satisfactory. With these remarkable outcomes, antimicrobial products prepared by digital light processing 3D printing can be regarded as a reliable solution to long-term infection prevention and control.
Study on the Electrical Insulation Properties of Modified PTFE at High Temperatures
Authors: Yuan Lijian , Zheng Xu , Zhu Wenbo , Wang Bin , Chen Yuanyuan , Xing Yunqi
Published: January 2024

During the operation of multi-electric aircraft, the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) material used to insulate the aviation cable is subjected to a high electric field while working under the extreme conditions of high temperatures for a long time, which can easily cause a partial discharge and even flashover along the surface, which seriously threaten the safe operation of the aircraft. In this paper, the electrical insulation properties of PTFE were regulated via modification by the magnetron sputtering of TiO2 under high temperatures, and modified PTFE with different sputtering times was prepared. The direct current (DC) surface discharge, surface flashover, and electric aging characteristics of modified PTFE were studied under the condition of 20~200 °C, and the mechanisms by which modification by sputtering of TiO2 and high temperature influence the insulation properties were analyzed. The results show that the surface discharge intensity increases with the increase in temperature, the modification by sputtering of TiO2 can significantly inhibit the partial discharge of PTFE, and the flashover voltage first increases and then decreases with the increase in the modification time. The modification by magnetron sputtering can effectively increase the surface potential decay rate of the PTFE, increase the shallow trap energy density, effectively avoid charge accumulation, inhibit the partial discharge phenomenon, and improve the surface electrical insulation and anti-aging properties.
Antimicrobial Antioxidant Polymer Films with Green Silver Nanoparticles from Symphyti radix
Authors: Balciunaitiene Aiste , Januskevice Viktorija , Saunoriute Sandra , Raubyte Urte , Viskelis Jonas , Memvanga Patrick B. , Viskelis Pranas
Published: January 2024

Antimicrobial natural polymer film with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) biosynthesized using aqueous plant root extracts as reducing capping agents and for film formatting show extensive applicability for pathogenic microorganism problems. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS) techniques. The antimicrobial activity of biofilm with green AgNPs was analysed by inhibiting the growth of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria culture using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion susceptibility test. Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity were slightly higher in aqueous extracts of Sym. Radix than in Sym. Radix/AgNPs. The antimicrobial effect of polymer film/AgNPs against selected test bacteria cultures was substantially more robust than with pure film. Pictures of AgNPs obtained by TEM revealed the presence of spherical-shaped nano-objects with an average size 27.45 nm. SEM–EDS studies confirmed the uniform distribution of metal nanoparticles throughout the biopolymeric matrix. Morphological studies of the surface showed that the obtained surface of the films was even, without holes or other relief irregularities. These apparent Symphyti radix polymer film/AgNPs’ biological functions could provide a platform for fighting pathogenic bacteria in the era of multi-drug resistance.
A Multimodal Fusion System for Object Identification in Point Clouds with Density and Coverage Differences
Authors: Quintero Bernal Daniel Fernando , Kern John , Urrea Claudio
Published: January 2024

Data fusion, which involves integrating information from multiple sources to achieve a specific objective, is an essential area of contemporary scientific research. This article presents a multimodal fusion system for object identification in point clouds in a controlled environment. Several stages were implemented, including downsampling and denoising techniques, to prepare the data before fusion. Two denoising approaches were tested and compared: one based on neighborhood technique and the other using a median filter for each “x”, “y”, and “z” coordinate of each point. The downsampling techniques included Random, Grid Average, and Nonuniform Grid Sample. To achieve precise alignment of sensor data in a common coordinate system, registration techniques such as Iterative Closest Point (ICP), Coherent Point Drift (CPD), and Normal Distribution Transform (NDT) were employed. Despite facing limitations, variations in density, and differences in coverage among the point clouds generated by the sensors, the system successfully achieved an integrated and coherent representation of objects in the controlled environment. This accomplishment establishes a robust foundation for future research in the field of point cloud data fusion.
A Review of the Research Progress and Application of Key Components in the Hydrogen Fuel Cell System
Authors: Li Jichao , Wu Tong , Cheng Cunhe , Li Jiqiang , Zhou Ke
Published: January 2024

The hydrogen cycle system, one of the main systems used for hydrogen fuel cells, has many advantages. It can improve the efficiency, the water capacity, and the management of thermal fuel cells. It can also enhance the safety of the system. Therefore, it is widely used in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. We introduce the structure and principles of hydrogen cycle pumps, ejectors, and steam separators and analyze and summarize the advantages of the components, as well as reviewing the latest research progress and industrialization status of hydrogen cycle pumps and ejectors. The technical challenges in hydrogen circulation systems and the development direction of key technologies in the future are discussed. This paper aims to provide a reference for research concerning hydrogen energy storage application technology in hydrogen fuel cell systems.
In Altum—“Put Out into the Deep”: A Formation Program for Missionary Discipleship for Students at the University of Notre Dame Australia
Authors: Topliss John , Gourlay Thomas V. , Chua Reginald Mary
Published: January 2024

While there is a significant body of research concerning Catholic faith formation in a variety of educational contexts around the world, relatively little attention has been devoted to the notion of missionary discipleship as a foundation for Catholic formation. Recently, the National Catholic Education Commission, in its document Leading Formation for Mission, also elaborates a solid definition of formation and stated: ‘Formation is imaginative, creative and honours adult learning principles […] It engages the ‘intellect’ and is nurtured by appropriate theological content and it engages the ‘Spirit’ and is characterised by contemplation and action for mission’ (2022). This paper seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of formation for missionary discipleship by presenting an evaluation of the efficacy of In Altum, a student-focussed ministry and leadership program developed at the University of Notre Dame Australia in response to the developing magisterial teaching concerning the notion of ‘missionary discipleship’. In particular, we examine participants’ personal faith development, understanding of missionary discipleship on campus, preparation for future ministry, and understanding of contemporary challenges to discipleship. The study progresses in three parts: First, it provides a brief background to In Altum, including the philosophical and sociological context, as well as the key theological principles underpinning the formation offered within the program. Second, following an overview of the mixed-methodology approach taken in the study, which details both the use of qualitative and quantitative data derived from focus groups and an online survey, the paper presents the results of the study, which sought to investigate the efficacy of the program as it pertained to the following: (a) the building of (personal subjective assessment of) faith in participants; (b) the building of participants’ understanding of, and confidence in, the task of evangelisation as missionary discipleship in a secularised context; (c) building a strengthened sense of community amongst the participants. In the third and final section, the reported strengths and weaknesses of the program are examined. The paper also comments on implications for the program on the culture of the university more broadly, including precepts of the program’s findings that may be applied in light of the Australian Catholic Plenary Council’s findings to enhance the future directions of formation programs in the Catholic University Chaplaincy, with possible application to Catholic secondary schools and parish youth groups.
The Dharma Bums: A (Fictional) Pseudo-Buddhist Hagiography, or a Pseudo-ojoden
Authors: Matiu Ovidiu
Published: January 2024

This paper analyses Jack Kerouac’s brief but intense conversion to American pseudo-Buddhism and the artistic effect of this biographical development, arguing that his conversion was total from a spiritual point of view and that its almost immediate effect was the production of a literary piece which should be read as a (fictional) pseudo-Buddhist hagiography, or a pseudo-ojoden. The article investigates Jack Kerouac’s life as the life of a modern American Buddha, as a person engaged in a constant quest for spiritual enlightenment, who imbued his work with a spiritual feeling derived from his personal, direct, albeit limited experience with spirituality. His novel, The Dharma Bums, is a (fictional) pseudo-Buddhist hagiography because it is (auto)biographical, and the central characters are portrayed as enlightened, “holy” beings.
Natural Resource Optimization and Sustainability in Society 5.0: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ramírez-Márquez César , Posadas-Paredes Thelma , Raya-Tapia Alma Yunuen , Ponce-Ortega José María
Published: January 2024

In this study, we examine Society 5.0, defined as a future framework where advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and other digital innovations are integrated into society for sustainable resource management. Society 5.0 represents an evolution from the industrial focus of Industry 4.0, aiming for a harmonious balance between technological progress and human-centric values, consistent with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our methodology involves a detailed literature review, focusing on identifying and evaluating the roles of AI, IoT, and other emerging technologies in enhancing resource efficiency, particularly in the water and energy sectors, to minimize environmental impact. This approach allows us to present a comprehensive overview of current technological advancements and their potential applications in Society 5.0. Our study’s added value lies in its synthesis of diverse technological strategies, emphasizing the synergy between circular economy practices and sustainable economic development. We highlight the necessity for resilience and adaptability to ecological challenges and advocate for a collaborative, data-informed decision-making framework. Our findings portray Society 5.0 as a holistic model for addressing contemporary global challenges in resource management and conservation, projecting a future where technology aligns with sustainable, equitable, and human-centered development.
Determining the Dominant Contributions between Direct and Indirect Impacts of Long-Term Urbanization on Plant Net Primary Productivity in Beijing
Authors: Chen Yuan , Lu Dangui , Xu Bo , Ren Rui , Wang Zhichao , Feng Zhongke
Published: January 2024

Rapid urbanization exerts noteworthy impacts on the terrestrial ecosystem carbon budget, with pronounced effects in a metropolis such as Beijing, the capital city of China. These impacts include both Direct and Indirect Impacts. For instance, direct impacts influence regional Net Primary Productivity (NPP) by directly altering the vegetation coverage area. Concurrently, indirect impacts primarily affect regional NPP indirectly through climate change and urban vegetation management. How direct and indirect impacts contribute to the NPP is the core content of our research. Owing to that, we need to precisely assess the spatial and seasonal characteristics of the impact of urbanization in Beijing from 2000 to 2020. Firstly, a novel framework was proposed to analyze the impact of urbanization on NPP at the pixel level. Meanwhile, we employ the Proximity Expansion Index (PEI) to analyze urban expansion patterns. Results reveal that the direct impacts led to a cumulative NPP loss of 0.98 TgC, with the largest loss stemming from cropland conversion to construction land. During the last two decades, there has been a 56.87% increase in the area used for urban development in Beijing, a clear sign of swift urban expansion. Concurrently, this urban growth has had favorable indirect effects on NPP, with an average annual increase of 9.76 gC·m−2·year−1, mainly observed in urbanized regions. Moreover, the seasonal analysis underscored that indirect impacts were primarily temperature-related, exhibiting higher values during autumn and winter within urban areas, indicating enhanced vegetation growth suitability in urban areas during these seasons. Our findings quantitatively examine the numerical relationship between direct and indirect impacts at a magnitude level. The carbon gain brought about by indirect impacts surpassed the carbon loss induced by direct impacts, with indirect impacts offsetting 29.41% of the carbon loss due to direct impacts. Ultimately, we advocate for enhanced greening initiatives in areas of Beijing with higher indirect impacts to achieve optimal carbon gain. This strategy might effectively reduce the negative impact of rapid urbanization on the carbon budget of terrestrial ecosystems.
Robust 3D Semantic Segmentation Method Based on Multi-Modal Collaborative Learning
Authors: Ni Peizhou , Li Xu , Xu Wang , Zhou Xiaojing , Jiang Tao , Hu Weiming
Published: January 2024

Since camera and LiDAR sensors provide complementary information for the 3D semantic segmentation of intelligent vehicles, extensive efforts have been invested to fuse information from multi-modal data. Despite considerable advantages, fusion-based methods still have inevitable limitations: field-of-view disparity between two modal inputs, demanding precise paired data as inputs in both the training and inferring stages, and consuming more resources. These limitations pose significant obstacles to the practical application of fusion-based methods in real-world scenarios. Therefore, we propose a robust 3D semantic segmentation method based on multi-modal collaborative learning, aiming to enhance feature extraction and segmentation performance for point clouds. In practice, an attention based cross-modal knowledge distillation module is proposed to effectively acquire comprehensive information from multi-modal data and guide the pure point cloud network; then, a confidence-map-driven late fusion strategy is proposed to dynamically fuse the results of two modalities at the pixel-level to complement their advantages and further optimize segmentation results. The proposed method is evaluated on two public datasets (urban dataset SemanticKITTI and off-road dataset RELLIS-3D) and our unstructured test set. The experimental results demonstrate the competitiveness of state-of-the-art methods in diverse scenarios and a robustness to sensor faults.
Investigating the Mechanical Properties and Temperature Compensation of a Spot-Welded Strain Sensor within an Intelligent Steel Strand Cable
Authors: Deng Nianchun , Hu Lehai , Liu Xin , Tang Zhiyu
Published: January 2024

According to current regulations, welding is strictly prohibited for prestressed and tension cables. In response, this article proposes the use of a portable spot-welding machine to spot weld steel strands. This method generates a small current during spot welding, with a voltage of only 3 V to 5 V, and does not damage the internal structure of the steel strand. To effectively monitor cable tension in cable-supported structures, a novel approach utilizing a chip-based, encapsulated spot-welded strain sensor was investigated. The strain sensing capability, temperature sensitivity, stress relaxation, and static load responses were investigated on the proposed smart steel strand cables with spot-welded strain sensors. The theoretical analyses and finite element simulations revealed that the strain transfer efficiency of the spot-welded strain sensor exceeded 96%. The experimental results demonstrated that the load-strain relationship of the smart steel strand cable had a fitting degree greater than 0.999, and the tension errors obtained under different loads were within 1.26%. The tension full capacity errors measured at different temperatures were generally within 1.0%. The relaxation rate of the smart steel strand cable after 120 h was 3.78% and reduced the sensor accuracy error by 3.97%. Thus, the proposed strain sensor equipped with a smart steel strand cable is suitable for use in long-term tension monitoring.
Sensors in Civil Engineering: From Existing Gaps to Quantum Opportunities
Authors: Kantsepolsky Boris , Aviv Itzhak
Published: January 2024

The vital role of civil engineering is to enable the development of modern cities and establish foundations for smart and sustainable urban environments of the future. Advanced sensing technologies are among the instrumental methods used to enhance the performance of civil engineering infrastructures and address the multifaceted challenges of future cities. Through this study, we discussed the shortcomings of traditional sensors in four primary civil engineering domains: construction, energy, water, and transportation. Then, we investigated and summarized the potential of quantum sensors to contribute to and revolutionize the management of civil engineering infrastructures. For the water sector, advancements are expected in monitoring water quality and pressure in water and sewage infrastructures. In the energy sector, quantum sensors may facilitate renewables integration and improve grid stability and buildings’ energy efficiency. The most promising progress in the construction field is the ability to identify subsurface density and underground structures. In transportation, these sensors create many fresh avenues for real-time traffic management and smart mobility solutions. As one of the first-in-the-field studies offering the adoption of quantum sensors across four primary domains of civil engineering, this research establishes the basis for the discourse about the scope and timeline for deploying quantum sensors to real-world applications towards the quantum transformation of civil engineering.
The Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in Public Administration in the Framework of Smart Cities: Reflections and Legal Issues
Authors: Correia Pedro Miguel Alves Ribeiro , Pedro Ricardo Lopes Dinis , Mendes Ireneu de Oliveira , Serra Alexandre D. C. S.
Published: January 2024

In the last decade, artificial intelligence has generated several challenges in societies, with a special focus on public administration. Through the development of this literature review, we intend to underline the challenges that this has caused in the realm of public affairs, especially in terms of the smart cities framework, considering the legal perspective that is intrinsically associated with it. In this way, we based our research on a wide range of articles, from which we considered those with the greatest relevance and the highest number of citations in order to substantiate this theme in a more precise way. Finally, we present a set of conclusions, as well as opportunities for future investigations.
Is Digital Transformation a Burden or a Help? From the Perspective of Enterprise Sustainable Development
Authors: Du Meijie , Qu Xiaoyu
Published: January 2024

Sustainability has become increasingly critical to the development of modern companies. As it emphasizes the generation of value across three dimensions—economics, the environment, and society—sustainable development underscores its significance. Based on the value that a company delivers at a particular stage of the sustainable development process, this study proposes revenue as a measure to quantify stakeholder interest. Utilizing a fixed effects model with 2211 listed companies in 11 years, this study explores how organizations’ economic, environmental, and social inputs influence the creation of sustainability value on these three pillars, alongside the impact of four major digital technologies (artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud computing, and big data). The study reveals that companies’ contributions in these dimensions significantly enhance the output of values. Each of the four digital technologies exerts a distinct moderating influence. We provide a thorough look at the “input-output” relationship of sustainable value creation. Our research highlights the varying effects on sustainable development of companies’ contributions to the economy, the environment, and society, as well as companies’ adoption of digital technologies.
The Spatiotemporal Characteristics and Driving Factors of Regional Ecological Efficiency in the Tourism Sector
Authors: Deng Gang , Chen Hsing Hung
Published: January 2024

Improving tourism’s ecological efficiency and facilitating harmony between tourism development and the ecological environment are profitable and conducive to sustainable development. In this study, we investigated the relationship between tourism’s eco-efficiency for sustainable tourism development and environmental protection by incorporating unexpected outputs to calculate tourism’s eco-efficiencies, analyzing the three-dimensional spatial variation and, finally, considering the effects of nine comprehensive factors on the extent of the spatial variation in tourism efficiencies: economic development, openness, social consumption, the digital economy, transportation infrastructure, government intervention, technological innovation, energy consumption, and passenger turnover. First, an unexpected slack-based measure model was applied to calculate the tourism ecological efficiencies of 21 cities in Guangdong Province from 2009 to 2021. Second, the natural breakpoint method and trend surface analysis were used to identify the spatiotemporal differences in and spatial trends of these tourism ecological efficiencies. Finally, the geographical detector model was utilized to analyze the elements affecting the spatial and temporal differences in the tourism ecological efficiencies. Overall, the tourism ecological efficiencies of 21 cities in Guangdong Province are at a high level, showing obvious spatiotemporal changes. Compared with 2009 and 2021, the overall tourism ecological efficiencies of 21 cities in Guangdong Province shifted from a trend of high in the north, low in the south, low in the west, and high in the east to a trend of low in the north, low in the south, high in the west, and low in the east. The distribution in the north–south and east–west directions is in a “U” shape, and the spatial differences in the north–south and east–west directions are relatively significant. We suggest considering the roles of factors such as the development of the digital economy, the level of government intervention, the level of technical innovation, the driving force of transportation, the standard of the transportation infrastructure, and the standard of social consumption. This study provides a constructive approach to elevating the tourism ecological efficiencies of 21 cities in Guangdong Province with regards to the nine driving factors.
Optimizing Ventilation Systems for Sustainable Office Buildings: Long-Term Monitoring and Environmental Impact Analysis
Authors: Motuzienė Violeta , Lapinskienė Vilūnė , Rynkun Genrika
Published: January 2024

One of the key elements in meeting decarbonisation targets is improving energy efficiency in the building sector. Although much is being done at the policy level, evidence from practice shows that buildings designed and constructed for energy efficiency often do not meet the efficiency targets. This matter has particular relevance when it comes to non-residential buildings, such as offices. A common problem with existing office buildings is the inefficient management of their HVAC systems, which leads to a waste of energy. The goal of this study is to demonstrate, based on the monitoring of four relatively new offices, the extent to which mechanical ventilation leads to energy performance gaps in office buildings and to estimate the resulting environmental impact over the life cycle of the building. The monitored parameters were the occupancy and indoor environment, focusing mainly on the relationship between the actual occupancy and the CO2 concentration as a parameter representing the performance of the ventilation system. The monitoring results showed that most of the time, the buildings were over-ventilated, with the ventilation rates failing to match the actual demand, resulting in wasted energy. The actual occupancy of the monitored buildings was much lower than their design value. In two buildings, it never reached 50% of the design value. The simulation showed that simply by applying ventilation rate reduction based on a more realistic occupancy schedule, the primary energy demand decreased by 30%. Thus, the building’s annual CO2 emissions could be reduced by up to 12.5%. These findings help to fill in the knowledge gap as to why the building sector is struggling to decarbonise. The results of this work are of great practical value in showing investors, designers and managers the importance of a properly automated and managed building. The practical value of the results was enhanced by the fact that the timeline of the data covered by the analysis began before and ended after the COVID-19 pandemic, making it possible to assess the fine aspects of managing systems in light of the new realities of a changing work culture and office occupancy.
Communication and Interaction Practices in Czech Classrooms with a Teaching Assistant
Authors: Maněnová Martina , Wolf Janet , Skutil Martin , Vítová Jitka
Published: January 2024

The presented study focuses on pedagogical communication and interaction occurring in teaching with the presence of a teaching assistant. The aim was to enhance understanding of pedagogical communication and interaction in these classrooms. To achieve this goal, an analysis of teaching sessions was undertaken from the perspective of activities (interactions and communication) assumed by the teaching assistant during instruction. The research methodology relies on standardized observation, specifically employing the Flanders Interaction Analysis System, which investigates communication and interaction within the classroom environment. For observing teaching sessions with teaching assistants, 16 categories were developed and refined through pilot testing. Validation was conducted using video analysis. In total, 15 teaching sessions were recorded and subsequently analyzed. Specialized software Codenet was utilized for video data analysis, with a set time interval of 3 s. The data analysis revealed several crucial insights into the communication and interaction of teaching assistants and teachers in an educational context. Some categories, such as the preparation of teaching aids and those related to passivity, predominate, while others, including active involvement in teaching or introducing new educational content, are notably absent. Understanding these patterns may lead to optimizing the role of the teaching assistant in supporting individual students and classroom dynamics. The article discusses inclusive practices of teaching assistants, without distinguishing between students with special educational needs and typically developing peers. Inclusive education promotes social and environmental sustainability by fostering a sense of belonging and equality among students.
Investigating Various Factors Influencing the Accessibility of Digital Government with eGov PH Mobile Application
Authors: Jou Yung-Tsan , Mariñas Klint Allen , Saflor Charmine Sheena , Baleña Anelyn , Gutierrez Charlie Jade , Dela Fuente Ginber , Manzano Hannah Maureen , Tanglao Monica Shane , Verde Nicole Angela , Alvarado Princess , Young Michael Nayat
Published: January 2024

The Philippine government is taking advantage of the advancement of digital technology to bring and provide an accessible, sustainable, and broader version of its service and connection to its citizens by adapting digitalization and launching a mobile app called eGov PH. This application integrates with multiple sectors of the government, providing a sustainable and convenient way to conduct transactions between government agencies and citizens. This study aimed to investigate and assess the various factors that affect the accessibility of the eGov PH mobile app from the citizens’ viewpoint via an online questionnaire. A comprehensive 64-item research questionnaire was constructed and answered by 320 respondents. This study determined the key factors that influence the accessibility of the application, which will be assessed to improve the service efficiency of the mobile application. The technology acceptance model was used to correlate perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness to attitude toward using. Structural equation modeling (SEM) results revealed a noteworthy correlation between awareness of service and technology readiness and perceived ease of use. Furthermore, perceived ease of use was shown to have an insignificant direct relationship with perceived usefulness and the attitude toward using the eGov mobile application. These findings offer valuable insights into critical factors influencing the accessibility of the eGov app, contributing to enhanced sustainability and overall service efficiency. The identified model constructs from this study can serve as informative guidelines for researchers and various sectors exploring user-software interactions in relevant government applications.
Simulation-Based Education Tool for Understanding Thermostatically Controlled Loads
Authors: Gomez-Ruiz Gabriel , Sanchez-Herrera Reyes , Andujar Jose M. , Rubio Sanchez Juan Luis
Published: January 2024

Thermostatically controlled loads have great potential to make a significant contribution to improving energy efficiency in the building sector, which is responsible for 40% of greenhouse gas emissions in the EU. This, in addition to the environmental damage, represents a huge expense in terms of the electricity bill. Therefore, it is very important to train engineers on how to design energy management systems for TCLs. With this goal in mind, it would be very useful to have a simulation-based educational tool (SBET) to understand thermostatically controlled loads, their characteristics, and the possibilities in terms of energy efficiency. In addition, it would be very useful if this tool could be introduced in engineering curricula to help students become better trained and enter the labor market with more opportunities. Based on the shortcomings detected, this work develops an SBET specifically designed to teach on the subject of TCLs (SBET-TCLs), both about their intrinsic characteristics and their better management. To verify the developed SBET-TCLs, it was tested in a real scenario: a survey was carried out among the students of the subject ‘Alternative Energy Sources’ in the degrees of Industrial Engineering. The results show that the use of an SBET-TCLs has very positive effects on the learning process.