bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research and Possible Agronomic Applications of C60(OH)24 Adducts with Heavy Metals for Crop Treatment
Authors: Kulenova Natalia A. , Charykov Nikolay A. , Keskinov Viktor A. , Gur’eva Anastasiia A. , German Valeriia P. , Letenko Dmitry G.
Published: December 2023

This article describes the synthesis of fullerenol—C60(OH)24 adducts with some heavy metals—C60(ONa)x(O2Me)(24−x)/2;C60(ONa)x(O3Me)(24−x)/3; Me=Co; Cu; Mn; Zn; Gd; Tb. The identification of adducts was carried out by the methods of: elemental analysis, infrared and electronic spectroscopy, complex thermal analysis, high-performance liquid chromatography and dynamic light scattering. The solubility of adducts in aqueous solutions in the ambient temperature range has been studied. The solubility was significant and ranged from a few tenths to 1 g/dm3. The use of these adducts as micronutrients for spring barley crops in the Republic of Kazakhstan is considered. When using these nanopreparations, a general increase in yield (tens, up to 80 rel.%), nutrient content and moisture content of seeds (4–5 rel. mass %), as well as the resistance of the latter to the effects of pathogenic microorganisms (percentage of healthy seeds growth up to 10 rel.%), was noted.
One-Pot Reactions of Triethyl Orthoformate with Amines
Authors: Marinho Elina
Published: December 2023

One-pot reactions offer advantages like easy automation, higher product yields, minimal waste generation, operational simplicity, and thus reduced cost, time and energy. This review presents a comprehensive overview of one-pot reactions including triethyl orthoformate and amines as valuable and efficient reagents for carrying out two-, three- or four-component organic reactions.
“Only a God Can Save Us Now”: Why a Religious Morality Is Best Suited to Overcome Religiously Inspired Violence and Spare Innocents from Harm
Authors: Vincelette Alan
Published: December 2023

It is common to hear the refrain that religion is a major cause of violence today. And this claim is not without merit. Religious differences can fuel animosity and lead to societal conflict. On the other hand, scholars have increasingly recognized the role of religion in overcoming societal divides and helping people to heal and forgive. This paper will examine the latter capacity of religion to minimize the harms that occur during violent conflicts. It will be argued that secular ethical theories often fail to provide any principles or foundations that can help moderate passions, alleviate tensions, or provide frameworks for what is licit in war. In fact, the world views of terrorists and secular ethicists of war are often strikingly similar. Religious ethicists, on the contrary, have often encouraged practices (prayer for one’s enemies, forgiveness) and provided principles (dignity of every human, non-combatant immunity, just war theory) that can help moderate the violent tendencies of war and bring about a more peaceful and equitable resolution. While religion is not entirely off the hook for promoting violent conflict, religion can provide ethical frameworks and principles that help minimize the harms of conflicts and promote world peace.
Nature and the Value of Learning in Classical Chinese Philosophy and in Augustine—A Comparative Study
Authors: Brachtendorf Johannes
Published: December 2023

This paper compares Augustine’s view on the value of learning to classical Chinese philosophy (Laozi, Confucius, Mengzi, Xunzi, Zhu Xi). While Laozi has a quite negative notion of learning as leading humans away from true nature, most Confucians esteem learning highly as the only way to human perfection. Similar to the Confucians, the early Augustine sees knowledge and learning as a way for humans to ascend to divine truth. In his mature works, however, Augustine points out more clearly the dangers of learning: it can make humans proud instead of humble, causing them to rely on their own power instead of confessing their weakness and their need for divine grace. His hesitations on the value of learning bear some similarity to Laozi’s view.
Dual-Channel Semi-Supervised Adversarial Network for Building Segmentation from UAV-Captured Images
Authors: Zhang Wenzheng , Wu Changyue , Man Weidong , Liu Mingyue
Published: December 2023

Accurate building extraction holds paramount importance in various applications such as urbanization rate calculations, urban planning, and resource allocation. In response to the escalating demand for precise low-altitude unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) building segmentation in intricate scenarios, this study introduces a semi-supervised methodology to alleviate the labor-intensive process of procuring pixel-level annotations. Within the framework of adversarial networks, we employ a dual-channel parallel generator strategy that amalgamates the morphology-driven optical flow estimation channel with an enhanced multilayer sensing Deeplabv3+ module. This approach aims to comprehensively capture both the morphological attributes and textural intricacies of buildings while mitigating the dependency on annotated data. To further enhance the network’s capability to discern building features, we introduce an adaptive attention mechanism via a feature fusion module. Additionally, we implement a composite loss function to augment the model’s sensitivity to building structures. Across two distinct low-altitude UAV datasets within the domain of UAV-based building segmentation, our proposed method achieves average mean pixel intersection-over-union (mIoU) ratios of 82.69% and 79.37%, respectively, with unlabeled data constituting 70% of the overall dataset. These outcomes signify noteworthy advancements compared with contemporaneous networks, underscoring the robustness of our approach in tackling intricate building segmentation challenges in the domain of UAV-based architectural analysis.
Enhancing Leaf Area Index Estimation with MODIS BRDF Data by Optimizing Directional Observations and Integrating PROSAIL and Ross–Li Models
Authors: Zhang Hu , Zhang Xiaoning , Cui Lei , Dong Yadong , Liu Yan , Xi Qianrui , Cao Hongtao , Chen Lei , Lian Yi
Published: December 2023

The Leaf Area Index (LAI) is a crucial vegetation parameter for climate and ecological models. Reflectance anisotropy contains valuable supplementary information for the retrieval of properties of an observed target surface. Previous studies have utilized multi-angular reflectance data and physically based Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) models with detailed vegetation structure descriptions for LAI estimation. However, the optimal selection of viewing angles for improved inversion results has received limited attention. By optimizing directional observations and integrating the PROSAIL and Ross–Li models, this study aims to enhance LAI estimation from MODIS BRDF data. A dataset of 20,000 vegetation parameter combinations was utilized to identify the directions in which the PROSAIL model exhibits higher sensitivity to LAI changes and better consistency with the Ross–Li BRDF models. The results reveal significant variations in the sensitivity of the PROSAIL model to LAI changes and its consistency with the Ross–Li model over the viewing hemisphere. In the red band, directions with high sensitivity to LAI changes and strong model consistency are mainly found at smaller solar and viewing zenith angles. In the near-infrared band, these directions are distributed at positions with larger solar and viewing zenith angles. Validation using field measurements and LAI maps demonstrates that the proposed method achieves comparable accuracy to an algorithm utilizing 397 viewing angles by utilizing reflectance data from only 30 directions. Moreover, there is a significant improvement in computational efficiency. The accuracy of LAI estimation obtained from simulated multi-angle data is relatively high for LAI values below 3.5 when compared with the MODIS LAI product from two tiles. Additionally, there is also a slight improvement in the results when the LAI exceeds 4.5. Overall, our results highlight the potential of utilizing multi-angular reflectance in specific directions for vegetation parameter inversion, showcasing the promise of this method for large-scale LAI estimation.
Material-Enabled Impact Detection and Damage Localisation System Using Shape Memory Alloy Tufted Composites
Authors: Adeyemi Williams , Khor WeeLiam , Ciampa Francesco
Published: December 2023

Shape memory alloy (SMA) tufted composites have shown a significant improvement of the mechanical strength, fracture toughness, and delamination resistance of structural joints. This paper investigated the self-sensing functionality of SMA tufted carbon/epoxy composite T-joints to enable in situ strain monitoring for the detection of low-velocity impacts. Indeed, large deformations in the tufted composite due to impacts caused abrupt changes in electrical resistance of SMA filaments, which were used to trigger the detection system. An Arduino Mega controller was programmed to simultaneously extract and process real-time electrical resistance recordings from SMA tufts during impact tests conducted at 5 J and 10 J. Experimental results showed that the proposed SMA-enabled detection system can capture accurately the time of the impact and localise the delamination onset, thus demonstrating the truly multifunctional capabilities of proposed SMA tufted composites.
The Rapid Identification and Evaluation of the Resonant Noise of a Cooling Module Based on the Frequency Difference Sensitivity Method
Authors: Zhong Yinhui , Li Yinong
Published: December 2023

The energy amplification factor transmitted from the excitation source to the response end cannot be identified quickly and accurately using the method of obtaining modal frequency combined with damping through modal frequency resonance. As a result, the above method cannot be used to further evaluate the effect of structural improvement. In this paper, a frequency difference sensitivity method is proposed in order to improve the efficiency of the above identification and evaluation processes while also guaranteeing accuracy. Firstly, a theoretical model suitable for the damping and rigid-body-mode frequency range of the cooling module is established according to the frequency difference between the excitation frequency, .system mode frequency, and vibration response sensitivity. Then, the accuracy and effect of the model are studied from the perspective of a simulation and experiment. The model can be used to identify and evaluate the resonance problem of the vehicle cooling module quickly and accurately. The energy amplification factor of the fan to the passive end of the cooling module can be efficiently predicted using the frequency difference sensitivity method proposed in this paper while ensuring accuracy. The quantized noise-reduction effect of the interior before and after the improvement can be efficiently predicted and evaluated using said model. The literature shows that the resonance of a vehicle cooling module can be identified and evaluated quickly and accurately via the frequency difference sensitivity method, which can overcome the problems that the conventional modal frequency resonance method encounters in identifying and evaluating quickly.
Preliminary Research on Moss-Based Biocomposites as an Alternative Substrate in Moss Walls
Authors: Alvarez Gutiérrez Rafael , Blom Johan , Belmans Bert , De Bock Anouk , Van den Bergh Lars , Audenaert Amaryllis
Published: December 2023

Addressing urban air pollution is a pressing challenge, prompting the exploration of mitigation strategies such as urban greening. However, certain innovative greening approaches, while promising, may inadvertently incorporate unsustainable elements that undermine their eco-friendly philosophy. In this context, our research focuses on addressing the replacement of a petroleum-based filter substrate in an existing ‘green’ outdoor air purification system that utilizes ‘moss filters’, known as a ‘moss wall’. This initiative is driven by concerns about microplastic leakage from the substrate and the need to optimize the moss wall system in terms of circularity. This preliminary study presents a crucial first step, aiming to assess the feasibility of developing a circular, bio-based plate as a replacement for the existing microfiber filter substrate. The focus is on the potential of this plate to recycle moss from the system itself as raw material, ensuring structural integrity and the ability to support its own weight. To achieve this goal, a series of controlled experiments were conducted in a laboratory setting using cellulose, corn starch, and metakaolin binders. Our findings indicated that cellulose was crucial for the structural integrity, starch significantly enhanced the sample strength, and metakaolin improved the water resistance. These insights culminated in the creation of a laboratory-scale moss-based composite prototype, with moss constituting more than half of the total mass. This prototype demonstrated promising results as a starting point for a more environmentally friendly and bio-based moss wall substrate. Subsequent research efforts will concentrate on optimizing the binder and fiber composition, evaluating and improving the bioreceptivity and filter properties, conducting outdoor testing, and scaling up the prototype for practical implementation.
Types of Water Rights Systems in China: A Zoning Scheme Applied
Authors: Sun Yuanyuan , Jia Shaofeng , Jia Ru , Svensson Jesper , Lv Aifeng , Zhu Wenbin , Liu Jianxu
Published: December 2023

This article analyzes the appropriate types of water rights systems for different regions with varying water resource conditions in China. The most appropriate water rights systems for various zones were determined by comparing the value of influencing factors with corresponding thresholds in China’s second-class zones of water resources. It is shown that a riparian rights system under water withdrawals permission could be adopted in most regions of southern China. For most northern Chinese regions, the quantity proportional water rights systems should be adopted and further improved. In contrast to the implementation of a single quantity proportional water rights system, this paper innovatively proposes a zoning scheme for China’s water rights system. The appropriate type of water rights system can be identified according to the region’s specific water resource conditions. It can provide a scientific reference for the reform of water rights systems in China and other countries or regions.
Detecting Urban Sprawl through Nighttime Light Changes
Authors: Kii Masanobu , Matsumoto Kunihiko
Published: December 2023

Numerous cities around the world are currently experiencing surges in population growth and urban expansion, often accompanied by uncontrolled sprawl. It is widely recognized that unplanned urban development contributes to a decline in urban sustainability. In this research, our goal is to identify instances of sprawl development in the Kansai region of Japan by utilizing remote sensing data. As a result, we have discovered that nighttime light data are valuable for gaining additional insights into sprawl, even when time-series land-use data and spatial population data are available. Specifically, when comparing the changes in these indices between circa 2010 and 2020, it becomes evident that these indices exhibit very weak correlations. Consequently, they can be used as independent variables for identifying urban sprawl. Each index comes with its own advantages and disadvantages in the context of urban sprawl detection. Therefore, we can conclude that a combination of multiple data sources is necessary for a comprehensive determination and detection of urban sprawl.
High Resolution WRF Modelling of Extreme Heat Events and Mapping of the Urban Heat Island Characteristics in Athens, Greece
Authors: Roukounakis Nikolaos , Varotsos Konstantinos V. , Katsanos Dimitrios , Lemesios Ioannis , Giannakopoulos Christos , Retalis Adrianos
Published: December 2023

In recent decades, large-scale urbanisation has developed rapidly, resulting in significant changes in the local and regional environment and climate. Large metropolitan areas worldwide induce significant changes in local atmospheric circulation and boundary layer meteorology by modifying the underlying surface characteristics and through the emission of anthropogenic heat and pollutants into the atmosphere. We investigate the urban heat island (UHI) characteristics in the city of Athens, Greece, which is one of Europe’s largest metropolitan complexes with a population of approximately 3.7 million inhabitants. The UHI effect is intense due to the city’s size, dense construction, high incident solar radiation, and almost complete lack of natural vegetation, with previous studies suggesting a temperature rise of 4 °C on average in the city centre compared to summer background conditions. We used high-resolution WRF simulations (1-km horizontal grid) driven with ERA5 reanalysis data to produce surface temperature maps in the city of Athens and the surrounding areas (Region of Attiki) during the summer period of 1 July–20 August 2021. Different model parameterizations were tested, both with respect to urban characteristics and physical parameters. The daily minimum and maximum temperatures (Tmin and Tmax) derived from the model were validated against observational data from a dense network of weather stations covering metropolitan Athens and surrounding locations. We further investigate the influence of different meteorological conditions on the UHI gradients as produced by the model and the observational dataset, including the extreme heat wave of 28 July–5 August 2021, during which persistent maximum temperatures of >40 °C were recorded for nine consecutive days. The results indicate a strong correlation between WRF output and recorded minimum and maximum temperatures throughout the test period (R ranges from 0.80 to 0.93), with an average mean absolute bias (MAB) of 1.5 °C, and reveal the intensity and spatiotemporal variability of the UHI phenomenon in the city of Athens, with UHI magnitude reaching 8–9 °C at times. Our work aims to maximise the potential of using high-resolution WRF modelling for simulating extreme heat events and mapping the UHI effect in large metropolitan complexes.
Prophylactic Vaccination and Intratumoral Boost with HER2-Expressing Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus Induces Robust and Persistent Immune Response against HER2-Positive Tumor Cells
Authors: Delwar Zahid , Tatsiy Olga , Chouljenko Dmitry V. , Lee I-Fang , Liu Guoyu , Liu Xiaohu , Bu Luke , Ding Jun , Singh Manu , Murad Yanal M. , Jia William Wei-Guo
Published: December 2023

The development of effective cancer vaccines remains a significant challenge due to immune tolerance and limited clinical benefits. Oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 (oHSV-1) has shown promise as a cancer therapy, but efficacy is often limited in advanced cancers. In this study, we constructed and characterized a novel oHSV-1 virus (VG22401) expressing the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a transmembrane glycoprotein overexpressed in many carcinomas. VG22401 exhibited efficient replication and HER2 payload expression in both human and mouse colorectal cancer cells. Mice immunized with VG22401 showed significant binding of serum anti-HER2 antibodies to HER2-expressing tumor cells, inducing antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). Furthermore, mice primed with VG22401 and intratumorally boosted with the same virus showed enhanced antitumor efficacy in a bilateral syngeneic HER2(+) tumor model, compared to HER2-null backbone virus. This effect was accompanied by the induction of anti-HER2 T cell responses. Our findings suggest that peripheral priming with HER2-expressing oHSV-1 followed by an intratumoral boost with the same virus can significantly enhance antitumor immunity and efficacy, presenting a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy.
Effect of Palivizumab Prophylaxis on Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Very Preterm Infants in the First Year of Life in The Netherlands
Authors: Schepp Rutger M. , Kaczorowska Joanna , van Gageldonk Pieter G. M. , Rouers Elsbeth D. M. , Sanders Elisabeth A. M. , Bruijning-Verhagen Patricia C. J. , Berbers Guy A. M.
Published: December 2023

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) poses a severe threat to infants, particularly preterm infants. Palivizumab, the standard preventive prophylaxis, is primarily utilized in high-risk newborns due to its cost. This study assessed palivizumab’s effectiveness in preventing RSV infections in predominantly very preterm infants during their first year of life. Serum samples from a prospective multicentre cohort study in the Netherlands were analyzed to assess RSV infection rates by measuring IgG levels against three RSV proteins: nucleoprotein, pre-fusion, and post-fusion protein. Infants were stratified based on gestational age (GA), distinguishing very preterm (≤32 weeks GA) from moderate/late preterm (>32 to ≤36 weeks GA). In very preterm infants, palivizumab prophylaxis significantly reduced infection rates (18.9% vs. 48.3% in the prophylaxis vs. non-prophylaxis group. Accounting for GA, sex, birth season, and birth weight, the prophylaxis group showed significantly lower infection odds. In infants with >32 to ≤36 weeks GA, the non-prophylaxis group (55.4%) showed infection rates similar to the non-prophylaxis ≤32-week GA group, despite higher maternal antibody levels in the moderate/late preterm infants. In conclusion, palivizumab prophylaxis significantly reduces RSV infection rates in very premature infants. Future research should explore clinical implications and reasons for non-compliance, and compare palivizumab with emerging prophylactics like nirsevimab aiming to optimize RSV prophylaxis and improve preterm infant outcomes.
Monitoring Water and Soil Salinity across Mentor Marsh to Investigate Their Temporal and Spatial Variability
Authors: Sharma Suresh , Bhatt Rajesh
Published: December 2023

In this study, the surface water salinity of Mentor Marsh, located in Northern Ohio, USA, was monitored for 3 years by establishing 10 monitoring stations, whereas sporadic surface water salinity data were recorded at more than 30 locations in the marsh for 5 years. In addition, eight additional monitoring stations were established for recording the soil salinity at various temporal scales, whereas spatially distributed soil salinity was measured across the marsh in more than 500 locations to develop the salinity mapping in the soil using the Kriging-Gaussian method. Our analysis suggested that the water salinity in the winter was generally higher than in the summer. While the majority of the sites reported higher soil salinity characterized by high variability during the winter season, some sites reported a higher soil salinity in summer with less variability. The analysis revealed that the salt used on the road for the deicing purpose during the snowfall period was the primary reason for the increase in the salinity concentration in water in the western basin of Mentor Marsh, whereas the salt fill sites and brine well were primarily responsible for the higher salinity concentration in the eastern basin. Also, the drainage from the Morton Salt Company was a contributing factor to the sudden spike in some of the stations of the eastern basin. Both the surface water and soil salinity were relatively higher in the eastern basin than in the western basin. Apparently, salinity from the brine well field and salt fill sites seem to be more considerable than the road salt.
Evolution of Water-Conducting Fracture in Weakly Cemented Strata in Response to Mining Activity: Insights from Experimental Investigation and Numerical Simulation
Authors: Liu Quanhui , Zhou Chenyao , Ma Dan , Liu Yong , Wang Guanshi , Huang Zhen
Published: December 2023

The accurate prediction of the vertical extent of water-conducting fracture (WCF) zones in weakly cemented strata is particularly significant in preventing and controlling water hazards in western coal mines. The evolution of fractures in weakly cemented strata affected by mining disturbances was comprehensively analyzed by physical similarity models, numerical simulations, and field investigations. Results indicated that the development progress of water-conducting fractures can be divided into three phases: initial slow generation, subsequent rapid development, and eventual stabilization. The numerical simulation results revealed that in the initial stage of working face mining, the development of the plastic zone is limited, and there is minimal failure in the overlying strata; therefore, fractures are slowly produced without penetrating through the strata. When the plastic zone fully encompasses the entire main roof, it triggers severe shear failure in the overlying strata, resulting in rapid fracture propagation and penetration. Once the fracture height reaches a stable state, there is no further increase in the maximum vertical displacement of key strata, indicating the extensive collapse and compaction of the overburden as well as the stabilization of the fracture heights. A modified prediction equation for WCF in weakly cemented strata was obtained by correcting the traditional empirical formula based on field investigations. This modified prediction equation enhances the accuracy in predicting fracture heights and provides a theoretical reference to address the issue of the inaccurate prediction of the water-conducting fracture height in western mine rock strata.
Monitoring of the Surface Water Regime of the Sava River Alluvium in Serbia Using Geographic Information System (GIS) Techniques
Authors: Jokanović Vesna Nikolić , Jokanović Dušan , Savić Radovan , Vulević Tijana , Andjelković Aleksandar , Lazarević Katarina , Kovačević Ranka , Momirović Natalija
Published: December 2023

In the spacious inundation area on the left bank of the lower course of the Sava River in Serbia, there is an abandoned meander Special Nature Reserve, “Obedska bara”, which represents a very important floodplain in this part of Europe. This area is characterized by an exceptional wealth of biodiversity with a significant presence of rare and endangered species of national and international importance. Hydrological conditions in the mentioned area were analyzed from the aspect of surface water movement in nature and conditions altered by human factors (after the construction of the road network, canals, etc.). The movement of surface water, i.e., the filling and emptying of the investigated area, parallel to the water level of the Sava River, is shown using a digital terrain model. Our simulation of the change in surface water level within the studied area included the display of underwater areas, both with the formation of a flood wave (i.e., increasing water level of the Sava) and with the outflow of water from the pond when the water level in the Sava was reduced in both scenarios (natural and conditions altered by human factors). GIS and terrain digitalization were used for geospatial and hydrological analyses and, based on this, maps that display endangered areas could be made. The obtained results show that the largest human impact was recorded at the water level of the Sava River 74 m above sea level. The aforementioned water regime changes were shown to negatively affect dominant vegetation, such as pedunculate oak and ash.
A System for the Efficient Charging of EV Fleets
Authors: Fleck Tobias , Gohlke Sascha , Nochta Zoltan
Published: December 2023

Smart charging is a means of monitoring and actively controlling EV chargers to optimize the distribution and consumption of energy with a focus on peak-load avoidance. This paper describes the most important requirements that have influenced the design and implementation of the “Smart Charging System” (SCS). It presents the architecture and main functional building blocks of the SCS, which have been realized in an iterative development process as an extension component of the already existing open-source solution “Open e-Mobility”. We also provide details on the functionality of the core smart charging algorithm within SCS and show how various data sources can be utilized by the system to increase the safety and efficiency of EV charging processes. Furthermore, we describe our iterative approach to developing the system, introduce the real-world testbed at SAP Labs France in Mougins/France, and share evaluation results and experiences gathered over a three-year period.
A conceptual framework for the practical use of predictive models and Soundscape Indices: Goals, constraints, and applications
Authors: Mitchell Andrew , Aletta Francesco , Oberman Tin , Erfanian Mercede , Kang Jian
Published: December 2023

With the recent standardization of soundscape, there has been increased interest in bringing the soundscape approach into an engineering context. While traditional assessment methods, such as those given in the ISO 12913 series, provide information on the current status quo of an environment,
they offer limited insight into hypothetical environments and are therefore less relevant for design purposes. This conference paper presents a conceptual framework for the practical use of predictive soundscape models and indices. The framework outlines the goals, constraints, and potential
applications of these models and highlights the need for further research in this area to better understand the dynamics of soundscape perception and to put predictive models to practical use. Predictive soundscape models can be integrated with soundscape indices - such as those being developed
by the Soundscape Indices (SSID) project - for assessment purposes, providing a comprehensive approach to evaluating and designing sound environments. The use of predictive models is necessary to address the challenges faced in practical applications of the soundscape approach and to fill
the gap between traditional assessment methods and the design of sound environments.
Autonomous monitoring of traffic, rail, and industrial noise using acoustic vector beamformers based on 3D MEMS accelerometers
Authors: Waite Jim , Dall'Osto David , McCubbin Callum
Published: December 2023

Fully unattended acoustic monitoring has been hindered by the need to automatically discriminate specific sources from overall noise levels at a measurement location, even if that noise is very close in proximity. Existing 3D microphone-based acoustic intensity or camera solutions are
unwieldy and expensive for real-time deployments. A new system has been developed for autonomously monitoring noise levels in transportation and industrial settings, managed within an IoT network. Each measurement node has one or two Acoustic Real-time Event Sensors (ARES) and a beamformer
algorithm using 3D MEMS accelerometer-enabled Acoustic Vector Sensing (AVS) technology. Beamforming enables the system to focus on specific areas or sources of noise, delivering more precise monitoring and identification of noise sources, useful for noise reduction efforts and compliance with
noise regulations. Deploying 3D accelerometers, rather than microphone arrays, in the beamformer provides improved system performance and environmental protection, with reductions in array size, cost, and unwanted sidelobes. ARES beamformer array apertures occupy just 1 cm for a single sensor,
or 13 cm for 2 sensors, and can distinguish sources in frequencies from 50 to 2 kHz with excellent angular resolution, in real-time. Example traffic and rail noise applications are presented.
A basic study on laboratory measurement of oblique-incidence sound transmission loss of building elements
Authors: Yamasaki Yasutomo , Tanaka Hikari , Masuda Kiyoshi , Inoue Naohisa , Sakuma Tetsuya
Published: December 2023

Understanding the sound insulation performance of building elements under oblique incidence conditions is occasionally required for assessing the indoor sound environment of high-rise buildings that face roads or railways. In order to gain knowledge toward establishing a laboratory
measurement method for oblique incident sound transmission loss, a measurement system was set up in a coupled reverberation room and anechoic chamber with a movable sound source. For verification of the system, a pilot measurement was carried out with a large glass pane, while the experimental
set-up was also numerically simulated by FEM. In the experimental results, transmission loss was observed to depend on incidence angle in correlation with the coincidence effect, roughly obeying theory. However, it was found that the incident power estimated from the surface sound pressure
on the specimen differs somewhat from that estimated using loudspeaker directivity in a free field. This discrepancy is thought due to edge diffraction from the beading around the glass pane, and this was confirmed by the numerical results. Further, this edge diffraction may also have caused
the observed coincidence effect under normal incidence.
Sensitivity of compressor aerodynamic noise prediction to time setup of CFD simulations using hybrid CAA method
Authors: Cao Can
Published: December 2023

This paper numerically studies the aerodynamic noise of a centrifugal compressor in a vehicle engine turbocharger. The hybrid CAA approach based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and acoustic boundary element method (BEM) in the prediction of aerodynamic noise is validated. The
impacts of the time setup of unsteady CFD simulations on the prediction of compressor flow and aerodynamic noise are discussed. The results show that a large time step would result in unreliable numerical results, in which severe reverse flow and flow separation can be observed. The middle
time step 2 deg. can get accurately predicted results while reducing the computational efforts. It is also found that a large total simulation time with a reasonable time step is helpful to improve predicted noise spectra. Moreover, the overall sound pressure level discrepancy of aerodynamic
noise between numerical prediction and experimental measurement is less than 0.5 dB.
Effect of rail traffic noises on the perception of the acoustic environment in office spaces
Authors: Chai Yuying , Yu Boya
Published: December 2023

This study conducted a laboratory experiment to investigate the effect of rail traffic noise on the perception of the acoustic environment in office spaces. The study considered two types of experiment stimuli, single noise, and combined noise. The single noise stimuli consisted of
silence (SL), air conditioning noise (AC), irrelevant speech (SP), and six types of traffic noise (Tr). Traffic noise included road (R), maglev (Ma), tram (T), conventional train (C), high-speed train (H), and metro (Me). The combined noise stimuli used air conditioning sound and speech as
background noise and combined with six types of traffic noise to form the experimental stimuli. Thirty subjects took part in laboratory experiments in which the acoustic environment was rated on two aspects: noise disturbance and acoustic comfort. Under single noises, the results showed that
the noise source had a significant negative effect on the evaluation of the acoustic environment. The influence of traffic noises varied with the traffic type, which was lower and higher than that of irrelevant speech and air conditioning noise, respectively. Under combined acoustic conditions,
acoustic comfort was affected by the main effects of background noise type, traffic noise type, and traffic noise level. In addition to the main effects, noise disturbance was also influenced by the interaction between traffic noise level and background noise type, and between traffic noise
level and traffic noise type. Keywords: rail traffic noise; office space; acoustic environment; acoustic comfort; noise disturbance
Investigating the Slowness Characteristics in Acoustic Emission Tomography
Authors: KHAN Md Tawhidul Islam , Rahman Md Abdur
Published: December 2023

Images of the inside of any structure can be achieved non-invasively using tomographic acquisition and processing methods. Acoustic emission tomography (AET) is a method of non-destructive testing technique that uses acoustic waves to visualize the image and diagnose the anomalies inside
the structure. One of the key parameters in AET is the slowness (reciprocal of the velocity) phenomenon, where the propagation speed of AE wave varies in some areas of the structure. This can lead to significant information from the imaging results and limit the applications of the structure
in certain cases. In this paper, we present a comprehensive study of Acoustic Emission (AE) testing, the time of arrival (TOA) of AE signal to each sensor, and calculate the slowness inside the material for reconstructing tomographic images. We analyze the slowness mechanisms and visualize
the slowness in a two-dimensional plot. Standard Hsu-Nielsen (H-N) method has been used as an AE source. TOA is the basic function for finding slowness. The principle of iterative algorithms is used to find a solution for slowness in a specific cell by successive estimation.
Anomalous refraction of acoustic waves using double layered acoustic grating
Authors: Du Liangfen , Fan Zheng
Published: December 2023

The paper proposes a double layered acoustic grating for fulfilling acoustic focusing in an anomalous direction. The acoustic grating consists of two layers of rigid panels with periodically perforated slits. By optimizing the positions of the slits on the two layers, both positive
and negative refractive indices can be achieved with the phase shift tailored within [-π/2, π/2]. This allows acoustic energy of an obliquely incident plane wave to converge in a predefined focusing region in any direction. The paper predicts the wave propagation manipulated by the acoustic
grating based on the surface coupling approach. Then, it discusses how to optimize the slits' positions to collimate the acoustic energy of an obliquely incident plane wave in a specific direction. Such acoustic grating has various potential applications, such as deflecting outdoor noise away
from sensitive areas in building acoustics, enhancing acoustic energy in a target audience area in auditorium design, collimating acoustic surface waves, etc.
On abnormal noise generated from steam gas heater
Authors: Ishihara Kunihiko , Hayashi Keisuke
Published: December 2023

When a steam gas heater set up in a town was operated, an abnormal noise with a sound pressure level (SPL) of 120 dB was generated at 32% of the rated flow rate. In order to solve this problem, We conducted a field survey to investigate the relationship between the operating conditions
and the noise. First, I identified the source of noise and next, the noise level and the mode of sound pressure level (SPL) in a duct were measured and the FFT analysis was carried out to determine the dominant frequency. The results revealed that the abnormal noise was not a mere resonance
but rather a self-sustained tone due to the interference of the vortex and the sound field. Furthermore, we measured the SPL outside the gas heater duct and found that the SPL was highest at the center of the gas heater duct. Typically, the first pressure mode should be minimum at the center
and maximum at both ends, but the reason for this deviation was clarified in this paper. To address the issue, multiple baffle plates were inserted in a tube array and as a result, the abnormal noise completely disappeared. It was also found that the baffle plate should be inserted at the
position where the particle velocity exceeds half of the maximum value.
Influence of visual information on the perception of environmental sounds
Authors: Terashima Takane , Tokunaga Yasunobu
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study is to clarify the influence of visual information on perception of environmental sounds. Audiovisual stimuli (360-degree video and ambisonic recordings) sampled at 6 locations in a region were presented to subjects through VR system with headphone and were
rated by subjects in various evaluation items on a 7-step categorical scale. Stimuli presentation has three modes: only auditory stimulation (auditory single-mode), only visual stimulation (visual single-mode), and simultaneous presentation of audiovisual stimulation (multi-mode). Evaluation
results were subjected to analysis of variance, significance tests and factor analysis to clarify differences in evaluation tendencies between modes. The dispersion of the evaluation values for auditory aspect under multi-mode tends to be smaller than that under auditory single-mode. It was
found that visual information generally has the influence of relieving the impression of prominent environmental sounds. In addition, multi-mode evaluation tends to be related with evaluation obtained in visual single-mode, especially in evaluation items common to audio and visual. And it
will be tried to explain the evaluation results in relation to the expected sound state for visual stimuli.
Singular spectral analysis-based interpolation for missing segments of speech signals extracted from videos captured by dual rolling-shutter cameras
Authors: Nakano Hayata , Geng Yuting , Iwai Kenta , Nishiura Takanobu
Published: December 2023

Recent studies have been proposed to extract speech signals from captured videos of objects vibrating by sound waves. Among them, a method for extracting speech signals from videos captured by a rolling-shutter camera, which is widely used, has been attracting attention. A rolling-shutter
camera records image data in one row of pixels at a time, thereby capturing the vibration of objects caused by sound waves. However, there are time intervals between frames of the videos, resulting in missing segments in the extracted speech signals. The conventional method uses an autoregressive
model to interpolate these missing segments. However, the conventional method ignores the noise in the extracted speech signals, and therefore the noise remains. In this paper, we propose a method to interpolate missing segments based on singular spectrum analysis, which considers the noise
to further improve speech quality, by dual rolling-shutter cameras. By using the singular spectral analysis, the missing segments can be determined using only the speech components in the signals, which are related to large singular value, thereby reducing the noise. Experimental results show
that the proposed method outperforms the conventional methods in terms of quality and intelligibility of the extracted speech signals.
Extraction of high contributing vibration mode to the loudness of industrial sewing machine radiated noise using operational TPA
Authors: Okazaki Masahiro , Yoshida Junji
Published: December 2023

In this study, we analyzed the factor increasing the loudness of an industrial sewing machine radiated noise using operational transfer path analysis (OTPA). At first, radiated noise of a sewing machine was recorded and the loudness was calculated to evaluate the noise level considering
human auditory perception characteristics. The reduction target frequency band was then determined according to the specific loudness. Subsequently, the vibration acceleration at around the machine was measured and vibration mode analysis was conducted to understand the vibration characteristics
of the machine and the factor increasing the noise at the target frequency band. In addition, OTPA principal component model was applied to the sewing machine to estimate the high contributing vibration mode to the radiated noise at the target frequency band. Finally, the loudness at the target
frequency band could be decreased well by applying intensive countermeasure to the obtained high contributing vibration mode by the analyses.
Numerical prediction of noise generated from a box fan
Authors: Nakashima Yoshitaka , Kitano Yuya , Deconinck Thomas , Balaramraja Viswesh Sujjur , Detandt Yves
Published: December 2023

The noise generated from a box fan is numerically predicted with two approaches. The first one is the FW-H method that can simulate flow and acoustic together by the flow solver scFLOW but assumes sound propagation in free-space. The second one is the ring of dipoles method that is
a hybrid approach between the flow solver scFLOW and the acoustic solver Actran. These approaches are validated for small box fans of two different blade configurations with experimental data available for comparison. An incompressible unsteady LES solver with WALE model is used with a fine
mesh to solve unsteady flow fields. The numerical results show quantitatively agreement of the pressure rise performance with the experimental results and that the ring of dipoles method gave closer result to the experiment than the FW-H method especially on the low frequency range. Also,
we show that the flow rate dependence of the radiated sound pressure of the experiment can be qualitatively well captured with the ring of dipoles method. Finally, we discuss the causes of the different sound characteristics with different blade configurations.
Coherence between error and acoustic reference microphones with two closely located noise sources
Authors: Gu Wandong , Tao Jiancheng , Qiu Xiaojun
Published: December 2023

It is well known that locating acoustic reference microphones near the error microphone can improve the coherence between reference and error signals in feedforward active noise control systems. In this paper, the effects of the number of reference microphones and the distance between
noise sources and reference microphones on the coherence between the reference and error signals are investigated based on an analytical model. Two scenarios when the two noise sources are located on the same side or opposite sides of the error microphone are studied. The simulation results
show that the coherence coefficient can reach 1.0 regardless of the distance between the noise sources and the reference microphones if the number of reference microphones is the same as that of the noise sources. When the number of reference microphones is less than that of noise sources,
the coherence coefficient in the low frequency range decreases as the reference microphones move close to the noise sources.
Sound field control in a rectangular closed space using multiple selected room modes
Authors: Maeda Natsuko , Haneda Yoichi
Published: December 2023

Sound field control using multiple loudspeakers is essential for many applications such as sound field reproduction for delivering an immersive sound experience and noise control. These sound field controls are generally required in closed spaces, such as living rooms or factories,
where eigenmodes are prominent at low frequencies. Many studies on the control of a few modes in closed spaces have been conducted in the field of noise control. In this study, we attempted to reproduce arbitrary sound fields, such as plane and spherical waves, from virtual sound sources using
simultaneous multiple eigenmodes based on room-mode matching (RMM). Because most rooms are generally considered rectangular at low frequencies, we expanded the target sound field with discrete cosine transform (DCT) by approximating the eigenmodes as cosine functions. We proposed a method
for extracting the control modes necessary to reproduce the desired sound field considering the mode strength at a target frequency. The simulation results verified that the proposed method can reproduce propagating plane waves with loudspeaker arrays placed on both sides of the closed space
while maintaining the loudspeaker filter gains at appropriate values.