bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
System for Indoor Comfort and Health Monitoring Tested in Office Building Environment
Authors: El-Leathey Lucia-Andreea , Anghelita Paula , Constantin Alexandru-Ionel , Circiumaru Gabriela , Chihaia Rareș-Andrei
Published: October 2023

The use of smart technologies and the Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming more and more popular in order to enhance the overall building performance by monitoring parameters related to occupants’ comfort and health in the built environment. A new modular, custom-made and replicable IoT system is proposed based on an Arduino development board (MKR WiFi 1010) connected to the Arduino IoT Cloud. An Application Programming Interface (API) enables the integration of this system with other possible ones, thus making the system modular, custom-made and replicable. A series of parameters were simultaneously monitored over a 7-day period in two office spaces and a photovoltaic (PV)-testing laboratory. While the meteorological and comfort parameters (temperature, relative humidity, CO2) were monitored in all three spaces, the health parameters (total volatile organic compounds—TVOCs; formaldehyde—HCHO; particulate matter—PM; and radon—222Rn) were monitored only in an office setup located right next to a Chemical Analysis and Testing Laboratory. Generally, the registered values of the health parameters fell within the recommended thresholds. However, the thermal comfort parameters were constantly exceeded: over 90% of the working time in the two office spaces and 83.33% in the PV-testing laboratory. Still, the optimal relative humidity values in the monitored spaces contributed to the discomfort reduction in the occupants. Also, CO2 and TVOCs had some exceptions in particular conditions. CO2 values of up to 1500 ppm due to poor ventilation and TVOC levels of up to 1000 ppb related to chemical experiment development were registered. Also, several other peaks were recorded when monitoring HCHO as well as PM. Thus, special attention must be paid to natural ventilation or to the improvement of building characteristics. Also, the time intervals when experiments in the Chemical Analysis and Testing Laboratory are carried out should be communicated to other personnel from the nearest offices. The testing of the monitoring system over a one-week period showed that the proposed solution operated adequately, representing a reliable tool for data acquisition via the Arduino IoT Cloud.
Research of Kinematics and Dynamics of the Lever Lifting Mechanism Used in the Mobile Automotive Lift
Authors: Seidakhmet Askar , Tuleshov Amandyk , Jamalov Nutpulla , Jomartov Assylbek , Cieslik Jacek , Abduraimov Azizbek , Kamal Aziz , Kaliyev Madi , Bissembayev Kuatbay
Published: October 2023

Most of the arm lifts used in today’s industry are designed and manufactured based on the scissor mechanism. Such schemes have one drawback: when the mechanism is raised, their connection points with the base and the movable platform narrow, which leads to a let-down in its stability. This article proposes a new scheme for the lifting device, which eliminates the above disadvantage of scissor schemes. In the scheme developed by the authors, the joints connecting the mechanism to the moving platform and the base are fixed, which means that the distance between the connection points does not change, leading to its stable operation. The mechanism consists of one group of links of the second class and two groups of links of the fourth class. The article focuses on the stability of an automotive lift’s design when moving with a load. The article presents the results of a kinematic and kinetostatic analysis, a study of the stability of the lift and the results of studies of an experimental sample of the developed lift. The methods presented in this article allow for the design of automotive lifts with new lever mechanisms, as demonstrated by computer modeling and experiments.
The Effect of Cable Aging on Surge Arresters Designed by Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Zieliński Dariusz , Grzechca Damian
Published: October 2023

The degradation of communication cable insulators reduces the availability of the train control system and is caused by the degrading of data transmission line parameters. Due to extremely varying environmental conditions in the railway industry, the effect of data transmission line degradation on the critical parameters of the surge arrester that is used in wayside equipment is not known. The surge arrester module is very important in the railway industry, as it enables the protection of sensitive parts of wayside equipment, especially communication interfaces existing in wheel detectors, evaluators, signals, etc. These are critical to the safe and efficient management of railway infrastructure. The process of selecting a surge arrester component for a two-level voltage input to enable the examination of the degradation impact of a cable insulator used in rail signaling equipment on the performance of the surge arrester is presented in this paper based on the standards, as well as practical experience. To achieve this objective, an innovative design of the goal function that can be adapted to the new requirements of various industry sectors is proposed. The use of a two-stage solution verification is a unique feature of this method. The results indicate that the proper selection of the arrester components ensures the effect of degradation of the communication cable has an insignificant influence on the power dissipation of the surge exposures.
Aerodynamic Analysis of the Opening Hood Structures at Exits of High-Speed Railway Tunnels
Authors: Sun Haocheng , Wang Yingxue , Jin Xianghai , Liu Hengyuan , Luo Yang
Published: October 2023

As train operating speeds increase, the aerodynamic characteristics of the train within the tunnel become more pronounced, and effectively addressing the issue of micro-pressure wave (MPW) over-limits becomes especially crucial. This paper utilized the control volume method to investigate the key influencing parameters of tunnel exit hoods on the mitigation effectiveness of MPWs. Additionally, numerical simulation methods were used to validate these crucial parameters. The analysis considered various opening ratios, different opening forms, and the influence of hoods at tunnel entrances and exits on the amplitude and spatial distribution patterns of MPWs. A design methodology that comprehensively takes into account the advantages of tunnel entrance and exit hoods was proposed. The results showed that a higher opening ratio of tunnel exit hoods led to lower MPW amplitudes. Compared to without opening in the hood, when the opening ratio of the exit hood reached 90%, the maximum amplitude of MPWs at a distance of 20 m from the hood outlet decreased by 48.7%. Various opening forms of exit hoods resulted in distinct spatial distribution patterns of MPW amplitudes, with amplitudes near the openings notably higher than in other areas. There were differences in the mitigation mechanisms between entrance and exit hoods. In comparison to entrance hoods, exit hoods exhibited higher mitigation efficiency within a specific range of MPW amplitudes. Additionally, when both entrance and exit hoods were installed, they achieved the most effective mitigation of MPWs.
Effects of 12 Weeks of High-, Moderate-, and Low-Volume Training on Performance Parameters in Adolescent Swimmers
Authors: Karabıyık Hakan , Gülü Mehmet , Yapici Hakan , Iscan Furkan , Yagin Fatma Hilal , Durmuş Tugay , Gürkan Oğuz , Güler Melek , Ayan Sinan , Alwhaibi Reem
Published: October 2023

Swimming, an Olympic sport with diverse distances and energy systems, requires early specialization for elite success. High intensity interval training (HIIT) is a fundamental method used by swimmers to enhance performance, offering both aerobic and anaerobic benefits. This study aimed to examine the effects of a 12-week HIIT program with varying volumes on adolescent swimmers’ performance parameters. A total of 50 participants were divided into three groups High Intensity Low Volume (HILV), Moderate Intensity Moderate Volume (MIMV), Low Intensity High Volume (LIHV), and their training sessions consisted of 10 sets with 60 s rest intervals between repetitions and 3 min rest intervals between sets. The intensity was determined based on a pre-test 100 m times. The results indicate significant improvements in anthropometric measurements, including weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), and body fat percentage, within each group, with no significant differences between groups. Swimming performance for various distances (50 m, 100 m, 200 m, and 800 m) showed significant temporal improvements in all groups, with stroke parameters such as stroke rate and length also exhibiting significant improvements (p < 0.05). Resting heart rate and swimming performance at 100 m and 200 m differed significantly between groups, highlighting the impact of training volume on specific outcomes. In conclusion, this study highlights the positive impact of interval training on the swimming time (50 m, 100 m, 200 m, and 800 m), stroke rate (SR), strokes per length (SPL), stroke length (SL), Borg scale (BS) for various distances, emphasizing the need for tailored training programs to maximize their development and potential.
Design and Analysis of the High-Speed Underwater Glider with a Bladder-Type Buoyancy Engine
Authors: Ji Dae-Hyeong , Lee Jung-Han , Ko Sung-Hyub , Hyeon Jong-Wu , Lee Ji-Hyeong , Choi Hyeung-Sik , Jeong Sang-Ki
Published: October 2023

This study entailed the design and analysis of a 400 m class underwater glider operated by a bladder-type buoyancy engine. The underwater glider was designed for high-speed movement with a maximum velocity of 2 knots. The shape of the hull was designed to reduce water resistance using the Myring hull profile equation. The reliability was verified by performing simulations using resistance coefficients. The relationship between the control value of the ballast discharged from the buoyancy engine and the glider’s speed according to the path angle was analyzed. Further, the relationship between the optimal glide angle and the design control value of the ballast was derived, and the optimal glider speed was estimated accordingly. Based on the analysis results, a bladder-type buoyancy engine was developed, and the maximum speed of the tested underwater glider was measured via sea trials.
A Comparative Study of Fourier Transform Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Physicochemical Methods in Wheat Quality Analysis
Authors: Hao Zenghui , Shi Yan
Published: October 2023

Near-infrared spectroscopy is a non-invasive, rapid, and efficient analytical method widely employed in agricultural quality assessment. This study aims to explore the potential of Fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy in the analysis of wheat quality in comparison to traditional physicochemical methods. Key quality parameters such as protein content, bulk density, dough extensibility, development and stability time, wet gluten, and extension area were considered. To compare the similarities between the two methods in an irregular manner and to make the trials more representative, randomized combinations of different samples were made by planting different wheat genotypes in different locations. In wheat protein determination (r = 0.92, p < 0.001), the correlation between protein determinations was very high and highly statistically significant. This indicates that the Fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) assay is highly consistent and accurate with the physicochemical method for protein determination. In the quality indices of bulk density (r = 0.46, p < 0.05), dough extensibility (r = 0.46, p < 0.05), development time (r = 0.37, p < 0.05), stability time (r = 0.49, p < 0.01), wet gluten (r = 0.54, p < 0.01), and dough extension area (r = 0.63, p < 0.001), there was a positive correlation between the two assays. Although the correlation was lower compared to the protein assay, it was still statistically significant. This suggests that the FT-NIR assay also has some accuracy in these indices, although there may be some differences from the physicochemical method. Through comparative analysis, we found that in wheat quality assessment, FT-NIR showed a strong correlation and was highly significant in the determination of wheat protein content; in the determination of the extension area, although highly significant, the correlation coefficient was not high, and there was a positive correlation between the two, and a lower correlation was shown in the bulk density, dough extensibility, and development time. These results indicate that FT-NIR can assess the wheat protein content quality indicator. However, its ability to accurately assess wheat quality indicators such as density, dough extensibility, development and stability time, wet gluten, and dough extensibility needs further investigation.
Topology Optimisation of Structural Steel with Non-Penalisation SEMDOT: Optimisation, Physical Nonlinear Analysis, and Benchmarking
Authors: Ribeiro Tiago , Fu Yun-Fei , Bernardo Luís , Rolfe Bernard
Published: October 2023

In this work, Non-penalisation Smooth-Edged Material Distribution for Optimising Topology (np-SEMDOT) algorithm was developed as an alternative to well-established Topology Optimisation (TO) methods based on the solid/void approach. Its novelty lies in its smoother edges and enhanced manufacturability, but it requires validation in a real case study rather than using simplified benchmark problems. To such an end, a Sheikh-Ibrahim steel girder joint’s tension cover plate was optimised with np-SEMDOT, following a methodology designed to ensure compliance with the European design standards. The optimisation was assessed with Physical Nonlinear Finite Element Analyses (PhNLFEA), after recent findings that topologically optimised steel construction joint parts were not accurately modelled with linear analyses to ensure the required highly nonlinear ultimate behaviour. The results prove, on the one hand, that the quality of np-SEMDOT solutions strongly depends on the chosen optimisation parameters, and on the other hand, that the optimal np-SEMDOT solution can equalise the ultimate capacity and can slightly outperform the ultimate displacement of a benchmarking solution using a Solid Isotropic Material with Penalisation (SIMP)-based approach. It can be concluded that np-SEMDOT does not fall short of the prevalent methods. These findings highlight the novelty in this work by validating the use of np-SEMDOT for professional applications.
Breaking the ImageNet Pretraining Paradigm: A General Framework for Training Using Only Remote Sensing Scene Images
Authors: Xu Tao , Zhao Zhicheng , Wu Jun
Published: October 2023

Remote sensing scene classification (RSSC) is a very crucial subtask of remote sensing image understanding. With the rapid development of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in the field of natural images, great progress has been made in RSSC. Compared with natural images, labeled remote sensing images are more difficult to acquire, and typical RSSC datasets are consequently smaller than natural image datasets. Due to the small scale of these labeled datasets, training a network using only remote sensing scene datasets is very difficult. Most current approaches rely on a paradigm consisting of ImageNet pretraining followed by model fine-tuning on RSSC datasets. However, there are considerable dissimilarities between remote sensing images and natural images, and as a result, the current paradigm may present some problems for new studies. In this paper, to break free of this paradigm, we propose a general framework for scene classification (GFSC) that can help to train various network architectures on limited labeled remote sensing scene images. Extensive experiments show that ImageNet pretraining is not only unnecessary but may be one of the causes of the limited performance of RSSC models. Our study provides a solution that not only replaces the ImageNet pretraining paradigm but also further improves the baseline for RSSC. Our proposed framework can help various CNNs achieve state-of-the-art performance using only remote sensing images and endow the trained models with a stronger ability to extract discriminative features from complex remote sensing images.
Comparative Study of the Seismic Response Characteristics of Three Special Soils
Authors: Qiao Feng , Bo Jingshan , Chang Chaoyu , Wang Liang , Shen Chao
Published: October 2023

Because of its special material composition, formation environment and special structure, special soil usually shows different seismic response characteristics from general soil, and sometimes causes serious seismic disasters. Therefore, the study of seismic response characteristics of special soil has important practical significance for engineering construction and disaster prevention in special land areas, and a site seismic response analysis is an important way to study the impact of site conditions on ground motions. Based on the existing research work, the uniform and single ideal soil layer profiles of three special soils are established, and the seismic response analysis program of the soilquake soil layer is used to study the effects of the dynamic shear module ratio, damping ratio and shear-wave velocity of soft soil, loess and laterite on the characteristic period and platform value of the design response spectrum under different input ground motion intensities. At the same time, three typical actual drilling data values are selected to establish the calculation model of the site soil layer. On the basis of the seismic response analysis and calculation of the soil layer, three special soil dynamic characteristics are compared from the aspects of peak acceleration and characteristic parameters. Based on the research results of this paper, the recommended values of the dynamic shear module ratio and damping ratio of three special soils are given. This work has important reference value for seismic design in soft soil, loess and laterite areas, and also enriches the research results of soil dynamic parameters.
Effect of Different Local Vibration Durations on Knee Extensors’ Maximal Isometric Strength
Authors: Amiez Nicolas , Zografou Stella , Timbert Tom , Martin Alain , Methenitis Spyridon , Babault Nicolas , Paizis Christos
Published: October 2023

The prolonged application (>20 min) of local vibration (LV) on muscles or tendons is known to reduce maximal isometric strength. However, the effect of short vibration durations (≤6 min) is still unknown. In fourteen participants, the changes in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) were measured after 1, 3, and 6 min of rest (CONT) or local vibration (LV) over the quadricipital tendon (frequency: 100 Hz; amplitude: 0.5 mm). Before and after each condition, the amplitude of the twitch induced by a 100 Hz potentiated electrical doublet (PDPOT); the relative electromyographic activity of the vastus medialis and rectus femoris muscle during the MVIC (RMSMVIC.M−1); the torque developed 50 ms after the onset of contraction (T50); and the voluntary activation level (VAL) were evaluated. None of the three LV durations significantly changed the MVIC compared with the control condition (p = 0.379). The indices of central (i.e., VAL, T50, RMSMVIC.M−1) and peripheral (e.g., PDPOT) fatigue were unaffected (p > 0.147). In conclusion, a short-duration LV (≤6 min) on a voluminous muscle group does not impair maximal force production or induce any central or peripherical fatigue.
Physicochemical Properties and Sensory Attributes of Yanggaeng Treated with Citrus Peel Powder
Authors: Lee Jisu , Jang Hyunsoo , Kang Dahyun , No Chaewon , Doo Miae , Shin Eui-Cheol , Ha Jung-Heun
Published: October 2023

We aimed to investigate the effect of citrus peel powder (CP) on the physicochemical, antioxidant, and sensory properties of Yanggaeng when treated with various levels (CON (0%), CP2 (2%), CP4 (4%), and CP6 (6%)) of CP. With an increase in CP content, Yanggaeng displayed a significantly elevated free radical scavenging rate, as indicated by increased 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) free radical scavenging rates, as well as ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Furthermore, the addition of CP significantly reduced the pH and increased Brix values compared to the control (CON). CP treatment also exhibited a dose-dependent effect on colorimetric properties, resulting in decreased L* and increased a* and b* values. Moreover, CP addition changed the textural characteristics of Yanggaeng, escalating gumminess, hardness, and chewiness, while reducing adhesiveness. In terms of consumer preferences, Yanggaeng containing 4% CP (CP4) closely resembled CON in terms of attributes such as flavor, taste, sweetness, chewiness, purchase intent, and overall acceptance. However, Yanggaeng containing 2% (CP2) or 6% (CP6) CP led to a decreased overall preference for Yanggaeng. In conclusion, based on our findings, CP4 appears to be the most suitable choice for enhancing both the physicochemical and sensory properties of Yanggaeng. Furthermore, adding CP to Yanggaeng serves as a foundation for novel food production incorporating CP.
A Comprehensive Survey of Recommender Systems Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Zhou Hongde , Xiong Fei , Chen Hongshu
Published: October 2023

With the increasing abundance of information resources and the development of deep learning techniques, recommender systems (RSs) based on deep learning have gradually become a research focus. Although RSs have evolved in recent years, a systematic review of existing RS approaches is still warranted. The main focus of this paper is on recommendation models that incorporate deep learning techniques. The objective is to guide novice researchers interested in this field through the investigation and application of the proposed recommendation models. Specifically, we first categorize existing RS approaches into four types: content-based recommendations, sequence recommendations, cross-domain recommendations, and social recommendation methods. We then introduce the definitions and address the challenges associated with these RS methodologies. Subsequently, we propose a comprehensive categorization framework and novel taxonomies for these methodologies, providing a thorough account of their research advancements. Finally, we discuss future developments regarding this topic.
Dataset and System Design for Orthopedic Walker Fall Detection and Activity Logging Using Motion Classification
Authors: Huang Maxwell , Garcia Antony
Published: October 2023

An accurate, economical, and reliable device for detecting falls in persons ambulating with the assistance of an orthopedic walker is crucially important for the elderly and patients with limited mobility. Existing wearable devices, such as wristbands, are not designed for walker users, and patients may not wear them at all times. This research proposes a novel idea of attaching an internet-of-things (IoT) device with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor directly to an orthopedic walker to perform real-time fall detection and activity logging. A dataset is collected and labeled for walker users in four activities, including idle, motion, step, and fall. Classic machine learning algorithms are evaluated using the dataset by comparing their classification performance. Deep learning with a convolutional neural network (CNN) is also explored. Furthermore, the hardware prototype is designed by integrating a low-power microcontroller for onboard machine learning, an IMU sensor, a rechargeable battery, and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. The research results show the promise of improved safety and well-being of walker users.
Simulated Altitude Training and Sport Performance: Protocols and Physiological Effects
Authors: Chang Wu-Yeh , Wu Kuo-Cheng , Yang Ai-Lun , Chen Yi-Liang
Published: October 2023

This article explores the physiological mechanisms and effects of simulated hypoxia environment training on sports performance. Different training protocols, including hypoxia high-intensity interval training (HHIIT), incremental hypoxia training, hypoxia submaximal exercise training and combined training, and hypoxia training in the recovery and sleep states, are discussed. HHIIT combines intermittent hypoxia exposure with high-intensity interval training, and has been shown to increase the maximum oxygen intake compare to the state of normoxia, improving cardiorespiratory fitness, skeletal muscle oxygen utilization, power performance, hematological adaptations, and sports performance. Incremental hypoxia training involves the gradual decrease in oxygen concentration while maintaining exercise intensity. It has been found to improve aerobic capacity; however, fewer effects were observed in hematological variables. Hypoxia submaximal exercise training and combined training in a hypoxia environment has shown to increase VO2 and VE, and only improve hemodynamic function in combined training with hypoxia. Hypoxia during the recovery state has been associated with improvements in maximum oxygen uptake, also providing benefits to sports performance. Overall, exposure to a hypoxia environment has been demonstrated to improve cardiorespiratory endurance, power performance, and specific physiological adaptations in training and resting states. However, the optimal training protocols and their effects on different sports and athlete proficiency require further research to optimize training and enhance athletic performance in hypoxia environments.
Special Issue “Digital and Sustainable Manufacturing in Industry 4.0”
Authors: Calvo Roque , Yagüe-Fabra José A. , Tosello Guido
Published: October 2023

The evolution from current to future factories is supported by research contributions in many cross-disciplinary fields, where digitalization and sustainability perspectives are present [...]
Effect of Rock Dissolution on Two-Phase Relative Permeabilities: Pore-Scale Simulations Based on Experimental Data
Authors: Bolysbek Darezhat A. , Kuljabekov Alibek B. , Uzbekaliyev Kenbai Sh , Assilbekov Bakytzhan K.
Published: October 2023

Relative phase permeability is an important characteristic of multiphase flow in porous media. Its assessment is an urgent issue when the pore structure changes due to rock dissolution. This article examines the effect of carbonate rock dissolution on two-phase flow based on images obtained by X-ray microcomputed tomography with a spatial resolution of ~18 µm. The characteristics of the two-phase flow were calculated through pore network modeling. The studies were conducted on 20 sub-volumes, which were extracted from cylindrical samples A and B with permeabilities of 0.72 and 0.29 D. HCl solutions (12% and 18%) were injected into samples A and B at a rate of 8 and 2 mL/min, respectively. Due to rock dissolution, the porosity and absolute permeability of the sub-volumes increased by 1.1–33% and 44–368%, respectively. Due to dissolution, the residual oil and water saturations decreased by 20–46% and 25–60%, respectively. These results showed that an increase in absolute permeability led to a significant reduction in residual oil and water saturations. These results also demonstrated that rock dissolution resulted in a change in the spatial heterogeneity of the relative phase permeabilities. The spatial heterogeneity increased in sample A after rock dissolution, while in sample B, it decreased.
Tunneling Current Variations in Small-Sized Devices Based on a Compact Threshold Voltage Model
Authors: Zhao Zhichao , Wu Tiefeng , Zhou Chunyu , Wang Miao , Xi Yunfang , Feng Qiuxia
Published: October 2023

Accurate modeling of threshold voltage is necessary in the integrated circuit design of strained silicon devices. Thoroughly researching the factors that affect threshold voltage and establishing a more precise threshold voltage model, can provide essential theoretical support for integrated circuit design. By solving a Poisson equation, in this paper, we demonstrate a comprehensive physical model for the threshold voltage of strained Si NMOSFETs using the gradual channel approximation theory and a quasi-two-dimensional analysis. The model investigates the physical effects such as short-channel, narrow-channel, non-uniform doping, and drain-induced barrier lowering effects on the threshold voltage. After substituting the extracted parameters into the model, a comparison was made with experimental results to validate the accuracy and correctness of the established model. Additionally, variations in the tunneling current of small-sized devices were studied. The two models provide essential references for the analysis and design of strained Si large-scale integrated circuits.
Investigation of the Rock-Breaking Mechanism of Drilling under Different Conditions Using Numerical Simulation
Authors: Liu Xinxing , Kou Hao , Ma Xudong , He Mingming
Published: October 2023

The interaction between the drill bit and rock is a complex dynamic problem in the process of drilling and breaking rock. In this paper, the dynamic process of drilling and breaking rock is analyzed using ABAQUS software. The rock-breaking mechanism of drilling is revealed according to the stress–strain state of the rock and the force of the drill bit. The effect of the size of the drill bit and the characteristics of the rock mass on the drilling parameters is studied during the drilling process. The results show that both thrust force and torque show a linear increase with the increasing drilling speed under each fixed rotational speed. The drill bit size has minimal impact on the correlation coefficient of the relationship curves between thrust force, torque, and rotation speed. The drilling results in a soft–hard interlayered rock formation show that there are significant differences in thrust force and torque during the drilling process of different rock types. Whether transitioning from a soft rock layer to a hard rock layer or vice versa, the relationship between thrust force and torque is distinctly manifested whenever there is a change in rock quality. The thrust force and torque increase correspondingly with the increase in confining pressure. When subjected to lateral pressure, thrust force and torque gradually increase with the rising confining pressure. Vertical drilling exhibits a larger increase in thrust force and torque compared to horizontal drilling. The thrust force and torque increase more significantly with the rise in confining pressure compared to lateral pressure.
Enhancement of Low-Light Images Using Illumination Estimate and Local Steering Kernel
Authors: Cheon Bong-Won , Kim Nam-Ho
Published: October 2023

Images acquired in low-light conditions often have poor visibility. These images considerably degrade the performance of algorithms when used in computer vision and multi-media systems. Several methods for low-light image enhancement have been proposed to address these issues; furthermore, various techniques have been used to restore close-to-normal light conditions or improve visibility. However, there are problems with the enhanced image, such as saturation of local light sources, color distortion, and amplified noise. In this study, we propose a low-light image enhancement technique using illumination component estimation and a local steering kernel to address this problem. The proposed method estimates the illumination components in low-light images and obtains the images with illumination enhancement based on Retinex theory. The resulting image is then color-corrected and denoised using a local steering kernel. To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, low-light images taken under various conditions are simulated using the proposed method, and it demonstrates visual and quantitative superiority to the existing methods.
Data Knowledge Dual-Driven Rate of Penetration Prediction Method for Horizontal Wells
Authors: Zhao Xiuwen , Yin Hu , Li Qian
Published: October 2023

The prediction and optimization of the rate of penetration (ROP) for horizontal wells are more complicated than for vertical wells, but most of the current ROP prediction studies are for vertical wells, which cannot be adapted to the complex drilling characteristics of horizontal wells. To this end, this paper proposes a data knowledge dual-driven horizontal well ROP prediction method. Firstly, the drilling characteristics of horizontal wells are analyzed, showing that the horizontal wells ROP prediction model cannot be modeled using surface measurement data; secondly, based on the analysis of horizontal well drilling characteristics, a physical model-based horizontal well ROP modeling data pre-processing method is proposed by introducing the drag and torque model. Finally, a data knowledge dual-driven horizontal well ROP prediction method is proposed in conjunction with data-driven algorithms. The proposed horizontal well ROP prediction method is applied to the A1~A4 wells in the Sichuan area. Compared with the conventional data-driven ROP prediction method, the prediction accuracy of this method is improved by 30%. The proposed method can provide a basis for the intelligent optimization and management of ROP during the drilling of horizontal wells.
Comparison of Automatic Classification Methods for Identification of Ice Surfaces from Unmanned-Aerial-Vehicle-Borne RGB Imagery
Authors: Jech Jakub , Komárková Jitka , Bhattacharya Devanjan
Published: October 2023

This article describes a comparison of the pixel-based classification methods used to distinguish ice from other land cover types. The article focuses on processing RGB imagery, as these are very easy to obtained. The imagery was taken using UAVs and has a very high spatial resolution. Classical classification methods (ISODATA and Maximum Likelihood) and more modern approaches (support vector machines, random forests, deep learning) have been compared for image data classifications. Input datasets were created from two distinct areas: The Pond Skříň and the Baroch Nature Reserve. The images were classified into two classes: ice and all other land cover types. The accuracy of each classification was verified using a Cohen’s Kappa coefficient, with reference values obtained via manual surface identification. Deep learning and Maximum Likelihood were the best classifiers, with a classification accuracy of over 92% in the first area of interest. On average, the support vector machine was the best classifier for both areas of interest. A comparison of the selected methods, which were applied to highly detailed RGB images obtained with UAVs, demonstrates the potential of their utilization compared to imagery obtained using satellites or aerial technologies for remote sensing.
Perceptions on Drinking Water and Wastewater in a Local Area in Western Romania
Authors: Blidar Elena Violeta , Gavrilaș Simona , Ursachi Claudiu-Ștefan , Perța-Crișan Simona , Munteanu Florentina-Daniela
Published: October 2023

The present study focuses on current knowledge of the local tap water and sewage systems among the citizens of three western Romanian localities. Only one of the considered localities in this study, namely, Pecica, partially benefits from access to a centralized tap water and sewerage system. The interest in this subject was caused by a procedure initiated by the local authorities to develop and improve the aforementioned infrastructure. The investigation methodology consisted of an online survey. The generated feedback was optimal for determining the general level of residents’ awareness of water and wastewater quality and the means for informing decisions of community interest. Nearly 75% of the interviewed persons declared that they had not been informed about future regional investments. The results indicated the necessity of raising the residents’ awareness about water quality and its importance for health, daily activities, and the environment. Only a few of the interviewees could provide concrete and accurate values for water quality parameters.
Development of a Rehabilitation Chair Design Based on a Functional Technology Matrix and Multilevel Evaluation Methods
Authors: Yang Xinyan , Zhang Zhongfeng
Published: October 2023

In order to meet the diversified rehabilitation needs of people, it is necessary to design a product for the active rehabilitation of patients. Existing rehabilitation chairs use intelligent massage, which can cause problems such as large massage areas, inability to massage locally, large chair size, and inability to meet the continuous use of the damaged parts. In this paper, the modular design method and multi-layer evaluation method are used to solve the problems related to rehabilitation chairs. The authors use the questionnaire survey method and the functional technology matrix method to determine the functional requirements of the rehabilitation chair, and then use the multilevel evaluation methods, including the AHP method, entropy weight method, and grey correlation analysis, to optimize the functional solutions of the rehabilitation chair, and finally obtain a chair for the rehabilitation of patients with upper and lower limb disorders. Problems such as the generalization of rehabilitation scope and non-durable use of components were solved, and the purpose of active exercise was achieved. This study verifies that the use of the multilevel decision evaluation method can effectively improve the efficiency of program decision-making and provides a theoretical and practical basis for the design of similar products.
Better COVID-19 Outcomes in Children with Good Asthma Control
Authors: Rodman Berlot Jasna , Aldeco Malena , Lepej Dušanka , Praprotnik Marina , Šetina Šmid Saša , Zver Aleksandra , Krivec Uroš
Published: October 2023

Factors associated with COVID-19 presentation in children with asthma are poorly defined. Our study aimed to assess the clinical course of COVID-19 in children with asthma, with particular attention to possible risk factors for severe disease and long-term sequelae in this group of patients. We assessed the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children with asthma six months before their regular outpatient visit to the asthma clinic. Characteristics of patients presenting with signs of SARS-CoV-2 upper (URTI) or lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) were compared. We focused on factors previously associated with COVID-19 severity. Twenty-seven percent of patients (57/210) reported exposure to SARS-CoV-2 infection. In the symptomatic group, 36% (15/42) reported symptoms of LRTI and 64% (27/42) of URTI. Poorer asthma control was observed in patients with LRTI compared to URTI (80% vs. 7%, p < 0.001). In addition, children with poorer asthma control had a higher risk of presenting with SARS-CoV-2 LRTI in a multiple logistic regression analysis. COVID-19 disease course was not associated with regular ICS use and asthma severity. However, patients on regular ICS had better asthma control (p = 0.026). We found no PFT deterioration post-COVID-19 in either group of patients. Our results suggest good asthma control and treatment adherence prior to infection are associated with better COVID-19 outcomes in children with asthma.
Development of Novel Indole and Coumarin Derivatives as Antibacterial Agents That Target Histidine Kinase in S. aureus
Authors: Poonacha Lisha K. , Ramesh Rashmi , Ravish Akshay , Mohan Arunkumar , Uppar Pradeep M. , Metri Prashant K. , Shivananju Nanjunda Swamy , Gaonkar Santosh L. , Gopal Shubha , Sukhorukov Alexey Yu , Pandey Vijay , Shubha Priya Babu , Basappa Basappa
Published: October 2023

Heterocyclic compounds can specifically regulate bacterial development by targeting specific bacterial enzymes and metabolic pathways. The ESKAPE pathogens are multidrug-resistant and cause nosocomial infections, which is one of the greatest challenges in clinical practice. The search for novel agents to combat resistant bacteria has become one of the most important areas of antibacterial research today. Heterocyclic compounds offer a valuable strategy in the fight against resistance as they can be designed to interact with bacterial targets that are less prone to developing resistance mechanisms. Bacterial histidine kinases (HKs), which are a component of two-component bacterial systems, are a promising target for new antibacterial compounds. We have designed and synthesized novel indole derivatives as antibacterial agents. Among the series, indole-coumarin (4b) and bisindole (4e) have shown the best inhibitory activity against S. aureus. Further, in silico docking studies show that compounds 4b and 4e could target histidine kinases in bacteria.
Multi-Reflection Time-of-Flight Mass Spectroscopy for Superheavy Nuclides
Authors: Schury Peter , Ito Yuta , Niwase Toshitaka , Wada Michiharu
Published: October 2023

The atomic masses of isotopes of elements beyond fermium, which can presently only be produced online via fusion-evaporation reactions, have until recently been determined only from α decay chains reaching nuclides with known atomic masses. Especially in the case of lower-yield nuclides, for which the sufficiently detailed nuclear spectroscopy required to fully determine the nuclear structure is not possible, such indirect mass determinations may suffer systematic errors. For many superheavy nuclides, their decay chains end in spontaneous fission or in β-decay prior to reaching nuclides of known mass. To address this dearth of accurate atomic masses, we have developed a multi-reflection time-of-flight mass spectrograph that can make use of decay-correlations to accurately and precisely determine atomic masses for the very low-yield superheavy nuclides.
How Can We Compare Cochlear Implant Systems across Manufacturers? A Scoping Review of Recent Literature
Authors: Tzvi-Minker Elinor , Keck Andreas
Published: October 2023

Electric stimulation via a cochlear implant (CI) enables people with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss to regain speech understanding and music appreciation and, thus, allow them to actively engage in social life. Three main manufacturers (CochlearTM, MED-ELTM, and Advanced BionicsTM “AB”) have been offering CI systems, thus challenging CI recipients and otolaryngologists with a difficult decision as currently no comprehensive overview or meta-analysis on performance outcomes following CI implantation is available. The main goals of this scoping review were to (1) map the literature on speech and music performance outcomes and to (2) find whether studies have performed outcome comparisons between devices of different manufacturers. To this end, a literature search was conducted to find studies that address speech and music outcomes in CI recipients. From a total of 1592 papers, 188 paper abstracts were analyzed and 147 articles were found suitable for an examination of full text. From these, 42 studies were included for synthesis. A total of 16 studies used the consonant-nucleus-consonant (CNC) word recognition test in quiet at 60 db SPL. We found that aside from technical comparisons, very few publications compared speech outcomes across manufacturers of CI systems. However, evidence suggests that these data are available in large CI centers in Germany and the US. Future studies should therefore leverage large data cohorts to perform such comparisons, which could provide critical evaluation criteria and assist both CI recipients and otolaryngologists to make informed performance-based decisions.
An Emotionally Intuitive Fuzzy TODIM Methodology for Decision Making Based on Online Reviews: Insights from Movie Rankings
Authors: Wang Qi , Zheng Xuzhu , Fu Si
Published: October 2023

With the burgeoning growth of the internet, online evaluation systems have become increasingly pivotal in shaping consumer decision making. In this context, this study introduces an intuitionistic fuzzy TODIM (an acronym in Portuguese for interactive and multicriteria decision making) methodology to rank products based on online reviews. Our approach aims to enhance user decision making efficiency and address the prevalent issue of information overload. Initially, we devised a product attribute emotion quantification framework within the confines of the intuitionistic fuzzy paradigm. This allows for the transformation of online reviews into exact functional outputs via our advanced intuitionistic fuzzy scoring mechanism and its associated precise function. Following this, we take into account the inherent correlation among product attributes, leading to the development of an attribute-associated intuitionistic fuzzy model. This model further ascertains the dominance degree of alternative products. Moreover, by integrating the risk aversion factor, we can derive a hierarchical structure for alternative products, aiding in the prioritization process. Finally, this paper validates the proposed method using movie sequencing as a case study. The results show that the proposed method, which takes into account the emotional tendencies of different attributes in a movie and the different preferences of viewers in the attribute weighting and movie selection process, is more reasonable than methods proposed in previous studies.
Adaptive Type-II Hybrid Progressive Censoring Samples for Statistical Inference of Comparative Inverse Weibull Distributions
Authors: Al-Essa Laila A. , Soliman Ahmed A. , Abd-Elmougod Gamal A. , Alshanbari Huda M.
Published: October 2023

Recently, there has been a lot of interest in comparative life testing for items under jointly censored schemes for products from multiple production lines. The inverse Weibull distribution (IWD) is commonly used in life testing and reliability theory. In this paper, we address the problem of statistical inference from comparative inverse Weibull distributions under joint samples. An adaptive type-II hybrid progressive censoring scheme (HPCS) is used to save the balance between the ideal test time and the number of observed failures. Under the adaptive type-II HPCS, unknown parameters of the inverse Weibull populations are estimated using both maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches. Asymptotic confidence intervals are established using the observed Fisher information matrix and bootstrap confidence intervals. We suggest using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) techniques to compute credible intervals under independent gamma priors. Using Monte Carlo simulations, all theoretical conclusions are tested and contrasted. For illustration purposes, an actual sample from comparative populations is analysed.
Multiple Positive Solutions for a System of Fractional Order BVP with p-Laplacian Operators and Parameters
Authors: Ahmadini Abdullah Ali H. , Khuddush Mahammad , Nageswara Rao Sabbavarapu
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we investigate the existence of positive solutions to a system of fractional differential equations that include the (r1,r2,r3)-Laplacian operator, three-point boundary conditions, and various fractional derivatives. We use a combination of techniques, including cone expansion and compression of the functional type, and the Leggett–Williams fixed point theorem, to prove the existence of positive solutions. Finally, we provide two examples to illustrate our main results.