bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Preliminary Investigation into the Degradation of Asbestos Fibres in Soils, Rocks and Building Materials Associated with Naturally Occurring Biofilms
Authors: Berry Terry-Ann , Wallis Shannon , Doyle Erin , de Lange Peter , Steinhorn Gregor , Vigliaturo Ruggero , Belluso Elena , Blanchon Dan
Published: January 2024

Bioremediation utilizes living organisms such as plants, microbes and their enzymatic products to reduce toxicity in xenobiotic compounds. Microbial-mediated bioremediation is cost effective and sustainable and in situ application is easily implemented. Either naturally occurring metabolic activity can be utilized during bioremediation for the degradation, transformation or accumulation of substances, or microbial augmentation with non-native species can be exploited. Despite the perceived low potential for the biological degradation of some recalcitrant compounds, successful steps towards bioremediation have been made, including with asbestos minerals, which are prevalent in building stock (created prior to the year 2000) in New Zealand. Evidence of the in situ biodegradation of asbestos fibres was investigated in samples taken from a retired asbestos mine, asbestos-contaminated soils and biofilm or lichen-covered asbestos-containing building materials. Microbial diversity within the biofilms to be associated with the asbestos-containing samples was investigated using internal transcribed spacer and 16S DNA amplicon sequencing, supplemented with isolation and culturing on agar plates. A range of fungal and bacterial species were found, including some known to produce siderophores. Changes to fibre structure and morphology were analysed using Transmission Electron Microscopy and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy. Chrysotile fibrils from asbestos-containing material (ACMs), asbestos-containing soils, and asbestos incorporated into lichen material showed signs of amorphisation and dissolution across their length, which could be related to biological activity.
Geochemical Characteristics of Seabed Sediments in the Xunmei Hydrothermal Field (26°S), Mid-Atlantic Ridge: Implications for Hydrothermal Activity
Authors: Yang Peng , Li Chuanshun , Dang Yuan , Fan Lei , Yang Baoju , Guan Yili , Zhao Qiukui , Du Dewen
Published: January 2024

The compositions of metalliferous sediments associated with hydrothermal vents can provide key geochemical data for locating seafloor sulfides. In this study, we present the geochemistry of seabed sediments from the Xunmei hydrothermal field (HF) in the South Mid-Atlantic Ridge (SMAR). The results indicate that the sediments are mainly composed of pelagic material (biogenic calcium components), basaltic debris, iron-manganese oxides, and hydrothermal components. The sediments are significantly enriched in Cu, Zn, Fe, and Co deriving from hydrothermal fluids, as well as Mn, V, Mo, U, and P, which are primarily scavenged from seawater. The northeastern Xunmei has the highest concentrations of Cu and Zn, while the northeastern, northern, and southern regions are characterized by great inputs of Fe. Manganese and Mo are mainly enriched in the western and southern parts and show a strong positive correlation, indicating that Mo is mainly scavenged by Mn oxides. Uranium, P, and Fe exhibit strong positive correlations, suggesting that they coprecipitate with Fe from hydrothermal plumes. Vanadium and Co are introduced into sediments in different ways: V is scavenged and coprecipitated by hydrothermal plumes, and Co is derived from sulfide debris. Based on the contents of Cu and Zn and Cu/Fe (0.159), Zn/Fe (0.158), and Fe/Mn (1440) ratios, it can be inferred that a high-temperature hydrothermal vent existed in northeastern Xunmei. In combination with the distribution patterns of the above elements, the hydrothermal vents in the southern part ceased erupting after a short period of activity. In addition, the high Mn anomaly and the high U/Fe ratios at the boundaries of the investigated area indicate the presence of a relatively oxidized environment in southwestern Xunmei.
Walnut By-Products and Elderberry Extracts—Sustainable Alternatives for Human and Plant Health
Authors: Sandu-Bălan (Tăbăcariu) Anca , Ifrim Irina-Loredana , Patriciu Oana-Irina , Ștefănescu Ioana-Adriana , Fînaru Adriana-Luminița
Published: January 2024

A current alternative for sustainable development through green chemistry is the replacement of synthetic compounds with natural ones through the superior capitalization of natural resources, with numerous applications in different fields. The benefits of walnuts (Juglans regia L.) and elderberries (Sambucus nigra L.) have been known since ancient times, due to the presence of phytochemicals such as flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids, alkaloids, nitrogen-containing compounds, tannins, steroids, anthocyanins, etc. These active compounds have multiple biological activities for human health, including benefits that are antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antihypertensive, neuroprotective, etc. Like other medicinal plants, the walnut and the elderberry possess important phytosanitary properties (antibacterial, antifungal, and insecticidal) and their extracts can also be used as environmentally safe biopesticides, with the result that they constitute a viable and cheap alternative to environmentally harmful synthetic products. During recent years, walnut by-products and elderberries have attracted the attention of researchers, and investigations have focused on the species’ valuable constituents and active properties. Comparing the information from the literature regarding the phytochemical profile and biological activities, it is highlighted that, apart from the predominant specific compounds, the walnut and the elderberry have common bioactive compounds, which come from six classes (phenols and derivatives, flavonoids, hydroxycinnamic acids, tannins, triterpenoids, and phytosteroids), and act on the same microorganisms. From this perspective, the aim of this review is to provide an overview of the bioactive compounds present in the different constitutive parts of walnut by-products and elderberries, which present a specific or common activity related to human health and the protection of agricultural crops in the context of sustainable development.
The Effect of Nitrogen Functional Groups on Pb0, PbO, and PbCl2 Adsorption over a Carbonaceous Surface
Authors: Wang Liang , Wen Huaizhou , Guo Lei , Liang Ancheng , Liu Tingan , Zhao Dongxu , Dong Lu
Published: January 2024

Lead (Pb) pollution, especially from the incineration of municipal solid waste (MSW), poses a significant threat to the environment. Among all the effective methods, activated carbon (AC) injection serves as an effective approach for lead removal from flue gas, while the modification of ACs emerges as a crucial pathway for enhancing Pb adsorption capacities. Density functional theory (DFT) is employed in this study to investigate the mechanisms underlying the enhanced adsorption of Pb species (Pb0, PbO, and PbCl2) on nitrogen-functionalized carbonaceous surfaces. The results show that nitrogen-containing groups substantially enhance lead adsorption capacity, with adsorption energies ranging from −526.18 to −288.31 kJ/mol on nitrogen-decorated carbonaceous surfaces, much higher than those on unmodified surfaces (−310.35 to −260.96 kJ/mol). Additionally, electrostatic potential and density-of-states analyses evidence that pyridinic nitrogen atoms remarkably expand charge distribution and strengthen orbital hybridization, thereby augmenting lead capture. This research elucidates the role of nitrogen-containing functional groups in lead adsorption, offering valuable insights for the development of highly efficient biomass-derived activated carbon sorbents for lead removal.
Effect of the Addition of Naringenin Derived from Citrus on the Properties of Epoxy Resin Compositions
Authors: Latos-Brozio Malgorzata , Masek Anna , Czechowski Leszek , Jastrzębska Aleksandra , Miszczak Sebastian
Published: January 2024

This research concerns the modification of commercially available epoxy resin with flame retardants in order to obtain aging-resistant and antimicrobial polymeric materials with a plant stabilizer dedicated to use in rail transport. Polymer compositions based on epoxy resin, fiberglass fabric, and naringenin were prepared. Naringenin was added as a natural stabilizer at 2, 4, and 8 phr. The materials were subjected to solar aging lasting 800 h. The hardness of the samples, surface energy, and carbonyl indexes were determined, and the color change in the composition after aging was analyzed. In addition, microscopic observations, analyses of mechanical properties, and microbiological tests were performed. The hardness determination showed that the samples retained their functional properties after solar aging. The increase in the polar component of the surface energy of all materials indicated the beginning of the degradation process of the composites. The tensile one-directional tests were carried out for plane samples taken in three directions (0, 90, and 45 degrees referred to a plate edge) before and after the aging process. The addition of naringenin did not affect the functional and surface properties of the epoxy resin-based materials. Polyphenol stabilized polymer composites, as evidenced by the results of carbonyl indexes. Moreover, the obtained samples showed good antimicrobial properties for E. coli and C. albicans in the field of testing the viability of microbial cells in contact with the tested surfaces.
Development of Pleiotropic TrkB and 5-HT4 Receptor Ligands as Neuroprotective Agents
Authors: Antonijevic Mirjana , Charou Despoina , Davis Audrey , Curel Thomas , Valcarcel Maria , Ramos Isbaal , Villacé Patricia , Claeysen Sylvie , Dallemagne Patrick , Gravanis Achille , Charalampopoulos Ioannis , Rochais Christophe
Published: January 2024

One common event that is the most detrimental in neurodegenerative disorders, even though they have a complex pathogenesis, is the increased rate of neuronal death. Endogenous neurotrophins consist of the major neuroprotective factors, while brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its high-affinity tyrosine kinase receptor TrkB are described in a number of studies for their important neuronal effects. Normal function of this receptor is crucial for neuronal survival, differentiation, and synaptic function. However, studies have shown that besides direct activation, the TrkB receptor can be transactivated via GPCRs. It has been proven that activation of the 5-HT4 receptor and transactivation of the TrkB receptor have a positive influence on neuronal differentiation (total dendritic length, number of primary dendrites, and branching index). Because of that and based on the main structural characteristics of LM22A-4, a known activator of the TrkB receptor, and RS67333, a partial 5-HT4 receptor agonist, we have designed and synthesized a small data set of novel compounds with potential dual activities in order to not only prevent neuronal death, but also to induce neuronal differentiation in neurodegenerative disorders.
Pesticide Efficiency of Environment-Friendly Transition Metal-Doped Magnetite Nanoparticles
Authors: Shahzadi Shamaila , Hassan Jalees Ul , Oneeb Muhammad , Riaz Saira , Sharif Rehana , Ban Dayan
Published: January 2024

This study explored the potential of Fe3O4, SnFe2O4, and CoFe2O4 nanoparticles as larvicidal and adulticidal agents against Aedes aegypti (A. aegypti) larvae and adults, which are vectors for various diseases. This research involved the synthesis of these nanoparticles using the coprecipitate method. The results indicate that CoFe2O4 nanoparticles are the most effective in both larvicidal and adulticidal activities, with complete mortality achieved after 96 h of exposure. SnFe2O4 nanoparticles also showed some larvicidal and adulticidal efficacy, although to a lesser extent than the CoFe2O4 nanoparticles. Fe3O4 nanoparticles exhibited minimal larvicidal and adulticidal effects at low concentrations but showed increased efficacy at higher concentrations. The study also revealed the superparamagnetic nature of these nanoparticles, making them potentially suitable for applications in aquatic environments, where A. aegypti larvae often thrive. Additionally, the nanoparticles induced observable damage to the gut structure of the mosquitoes and larvae, which could contribute to their mortality. Overall, this research suggests that CoFe2O4 nanoparticles, in particular, hold promise as environment-friendly and effective agents for controlling A. aegypti mosquitoes, which are responsible for the transmission of diseases such as dengue fever, Zika virus, and Chikungunya. Further studies and field trials are needed to validate their practical use in mosquito control programs.
Electrostatically Doped Junctionless Graphene Nanoribbon Tunnel Field-Effect Transistor for High-Performance Gas Sensing Applications: Leveraging Doping Gates for Multi-Gas Detection
Authors: Tamersit Khalil , Kouzou Abdellah , Rodriguez José , Abdelrahem Mohamed
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a new junctionless graphene nanoribbon tunnel field-effect transistor (JLGNR TFET) is proposed as a multi-gas nanosensor. The nanosensor has been computationally assessed using a quantum simulation based on the self-consistent solutions of the mode space non-equilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) formalism coupled with the Poisson’s equation considering ballistic transport conditions. The proposed multi-gas nanosensor is endowed with two top gates ensuring both reservoirs’ doping and multi-gas sensing. The investigations have included the IDS-VGS transfer characteristics, the gas-induced electrostatic modulations, subthreshold swing, and sensitivity. The order of change in drain current has been considered as a sensitivity metric. The underlying physics of the proposed JLGNR TFET-based multi-gas nanosensor has also been studied through the analysis of the band diagrams behavior and the energy-position-resolved current spectrum. It has been found that the gas-induced work function modulation of the source (drain) gate affects the n-type (p-type) conduction branch by modulating the band-to-band tunneling (BTBT) while the p-type (n-type) conduction branch still unaffected forming a kind of high selectivity from operating regime point of view. The high sensitivity has been recorded in subthermionic subthreshold swing (SS < 60 mV/dec) regime considering small gas-induced gate work function modulation. In addition, advanced simulations have been performed for the detection of two different types of gases separately and simultaneously, where high-performance has been recorded in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, and electrical behavior. The proposed detection approach, which is viable, innovative, simple, and efficient, can be applied using other types of junctionless tunneling field-effect transistors with emerging channel nanomaterials such as the transition metal dichalcogenides materials. The proposed JLGNRTFET-based multi-gas nanosensor is not limited to two specific gases but can also detect other gases by employing appropriate gate materials in terms of selectivity.
An Intensity-Demodulated Fiber-Optic Magnetometer Based on Nanostructured Magnetic Fluid-Filled Fluidic Photonic Crystal Fibers
Authors: Zhu Liangquan , Wang Huan , Lin Qijing , Yao Kun , Xian Dan , Yang Ping , Zhao Na , Tian Bian , Jiang Zhuangde
Published: January 2024

An intensity-demodulated fiber-optic magnetometer is proposed and experimentally investigated, which is fabricated via fusion splicing a segment of photonic crystal fiber (PCF) between single-mode fibers (SMFs), with the cladding air holes of PCF filled with magnetic fluid. Using the magneto-optical properties of the magnetic fluid, the transmission spectrum is changed with an external magnetic field. Based on the intensity variations in the transmission spectrum, the magnetic field is detected, and a sensitivity of 0.238 dB/mT is obtained at 1550.03 nm with the length of PCF 5.5 cm. By converting light signals into electrical signals, a sensitivity of 0.003 V/mT is achieved. The fiber-optic magnetometer possesses the advantages of simple fabrication, compact/robust structure, and low cost.
On-Chip Modification of Titanium Electrothermal Characteristics by Joule Heating: Application to Terahertz Microbolometer
Authors: Elamaran Durgadevi , Akiba Ko , Satoh Hiroaki , Banerjee Amit , Hiromoto Norihisa , Inokawa Hiroshi
Published: January 2024

This study demonstrates the conversion of metallic titanium (Ti) to titanium oxide just by conducting electrical current through Ti thin film in vacuum and increasing the temperature by Joule heating. This led to the improvement of electrical and thermal properties of a microbolometer. A microbolometer with an integrated Ti thermistor and heater width of 2.7 µm and a length of 50 µm was fabricated for the current study. Constant-voltage stresses were applied to the thermistor wire to observe the effect of the Joule heating on its properties. Thermistor resistance ~14 times the initial resistance was observed owing to the heating. A negative large temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of −0.32%/K was also observed owing to the treatment, leading to an improved responsivity of ~4.5 times from devices with untreated Ti thermistors. However, this does not improve the noise equivalent power (NEP), due to the increased flicker noise. Microstructural analyses with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), transmission electron diffraction (TED) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) confirm the formation of a titanium oxide (TiOx) semiconducting phase on the Ti phase (~85% purity) deposited initially, further to the heating. Formation of TiOx during annealing could minimize the narrow width effect, which we reported previously in thin metal wires, leading to enhancement of responsivity.
Effects of Fermented Polygonum cuspidatum on the Skeletal Muscle Functions
Authors: Kim Young-Seon , Han Ji-Hye , Lim Chang-Hoon , Fang Xue-Quan , Jang Hyeock-Soon , Lee Sang-Yun , Yim Woo-Jong , Lim Ji-Hong
Published: January 2024

Plant extract fermentation is widely employed to enhance the nutritional and pharmaceutical value of functional foods. Polygonum cuspidatum (Pc) contains flavonoids, anthraquinones, and stilbenes, imparting protective effects against inflammatory diseases, cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. However, the effects of fermented Pc on skeletal muscle strength remain unexplored. In this study, we generated fermented Pc using a complex of microorganisms containing Lactobacillus spp. (McPc) and assessed its effects on muscle strength and motor function in mice. Compared to unfermented Pc water extract, elevated levels of emodin and resveratrol were noted in McPc. This was identified and quantified using UPLC-QTOF/MS and HPLC techniques. Gene expression profiling through RNA-seq and quantitative RT-PCR revealed that McPc administration upregulated the expression of genes associated with antioxidants, glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, fatty acid oxidation, and mitochondrial biogenesis in cultured C2C12 myotubes and the gastrocnemius muscle in mice. McPc significantly improved skeletal muscle strength, motor coordination, and traction force in mice subjected to sciatic neurectomy and high-fat diet (HFD). McPc administration exhibited more pronounced improvement of obesity, hyperglycemia, fatty liver, and hyperlipidemia in HFD mice compared to control group. These findings support the notion that emodin and resveratrol-enriched McPc may offer health benefits for addressing skeletal muscle weakness.
Higher Brain Uptake of Gentamicin and Ceftazidime under Isoflurane Anesthesia Compared to Ketamine/Xylazine
Authors: Ahn Yeseul , Patil Chanakya D. , Nozohouri Ehsan , Zoubi Sumaih , Patel Dhavalkumar , Bickel Ulrich
Published: January 2024

We have recently shown that the volatile anesthetics isoflurane and sevoflurane acutely enhance the brain uptake of the hydrophilic markers sucrose and mannitol about two-fold from an awake condition, while the combined injection of the anesthetic agents ketamine and xylazine has no effect. The present study investigated two small-molecule hydrophilic drugs with potential neurotoxicity, the antibiotic agents ceftazidime and gentamicin. Transport studies using an in vitro blood–brain barrier (BBB) model, a monolayer of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived human brain microvascular endothelial cells seeded on Transwells, and LC-MS/MS analysis demonstrated the low permeability of both drugs in the range of sucrose, with permeability coefficients of 6.62 × 10−7 ± 2.34 × 10−7 cm/s for ceftazidime and 7.38 × 10−7 ± 2.29 × 10−7 cm/s for gentamicin. In vivo brain uptake studies of ceftazidime or gentamicin after IV doses of 25 mg/kg were performed in groups of 5–6 mice anesthetized at typical doses for surgical procedures with either isoflurane (1.5–2% v/v) or ketamine/xylazine (100:10 mg/kg I.P.). The brain uptake clearance, Kin, for ceftazidime increased from 0.033 ± 0.003 μL min−1 g−1 in the ketamine/xylazine group to 0.057 ± 0.006 μL min−1 g−1 in the isoflurane group (p = 0.0001), and from 0.052 ± 0.016 μL min−1 g−1 to 0.101 ± 0.034 μL min−1 g−1 (p = 0.0005) for gentamicin. We did not test the dose dependency of the uptake, because neither ceftazidime nor gentamicin are known substrates of any active uptake or efflux transporters at the BBB. In conclusion, the present study extends our previous findings with permeability markers and suggests that inhalational anesthetic isoflurane increases the BBB permeability of hydrophilic small-molecule endobiotics or xenobiotics when compared to the injection of ketamine/xylazine. This may be of clinical relevance in the case of potential neurotoxic substances.
The Impact of Various Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) Polymers on the Crystallization Process of Metronidazole
Authors: Orszulak Luiza , Lamrani Taoufik , Tarnacka Magdalena , Hachuła Barbara , Jurkiewicz Karolina , Zioła Patryk , Mrozek-Wilczkiewicz Anna , Kamińska Ewa , Kamiński Kamil
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we propose one-step synthetic strategies for obtaining well-defined linear and star-shaped polyvinylpyrrolidone (linPVP and starPVP). The produced macromolecules and a commercial PVP K30 with linear topology were investigated as potential matrices for suppressing metronidazole (MTZ) crystallization. Interestingly, during the formation of binary mixtures (BMs) containing different polymers and MTZ, we found that linear PVPs exhibit maximum miscibility with the drug at a 50:50 weight ratio (w/w), while the star-shaped polymer mixes with MTZ even at a 30:70 w/w. To explain these observations, comprehensive studies of MTZ-PVP formulations with various contents of both components were performed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction. The obtained results clearly showed that the polymer’s topology plays a significant role in the type of interactions occurring between the matrix and MTZ. Additionally, we established that for MTZ-PVP 50:50 and 75:25 w/w BMs, linear polymers have the most substantial impact on inhibiting the crystallization of API. The star-shaped macromolecule turned out to be the least effective in stabilizing amorphous MTZ at these polymer concentrations. Nevertheless, long-term structural investigations of the MTZ-starPVP 30:70 w/w system (which is not achievable for linear PVPs) demonstrated its complete amorphousness for over one month.
Blue Light of the Digital Era: A Comparative Study of Devices
Authors: Hipólito Vladimiro , Coelho João M. P.
Published: January 2024

The prevalence of digital devices in modern society has raised concerns about the potential negative effects of blue-light emissions on eye health and biological rhythms. Research into blue light emissions from digital devices and their potential impact on eye health emphasizes the importance of understanding and quantifying the extent and scope of blue light emissions produced by commonly used screens (smartphones, tablets, and computers). The goal of this study was to implement a set of methodologies to analyze this emission. A comparative study specifically evaluated three popular Apple devices: the iPhone 12 mini®, iPad Pro 12.9®, and the MacBook Pro®. The devices’ spectral power was measured using a spectroradiometer while displaying text and a game at different brightness levels. The laboratory measurements are compared to known solar irradiance, and all devices tested show blue wavelength peaks between 445 nm and 455 nm, with no expected immediate photobiological risk. We quantified the spectral emission from the three device categories and concluded that blue light levels should not significantly affect eye health. The measurements carried out indicated that the blue irradiance received by the human eye during one minute outdoors is greater than the blue light received by digital devices in approximately 24 h. This study also examines the effectiveness of blue-blocking lenses from well-known brands. The research highlights the importance of quantifying blue light emissions and understanding their potential impact on eye health, so appropriate measures can be developed to mitigate, if needed, adverse effects on ocular structures. A need to clarify the efficacy and usefulness of blue-blocking ophthalmic lenses still remains.
Effect of Choice of Drilling Kinematic System on Cylindricity Deviation, Roundness Deviation, Diameter Error and Surface Roughness of Holes in Brass Alloy
Authors: Bronis Mateusz , Krawczyk Bartlomiej , Legutko Stanislaw
Published: January 2024

This article presents the results of an experimental study on the effect of the selection of kinematic system for the drilling process on the cylindricity deviation, roundness deviation, diameter error and surface roughness of holes in brass alloy. Three different kinematic systems based on the dependence of the direction of rotation of the workpiece and the drill bit were used. The drill bit was mounted in an axially driven holder that allowed it to be put into motion. Cutting tests were conducted at three different spindle speeds and three different feed rates per revolution (27 tests in total). A static ANOVA analysis was used to evaluate the effect of each input parameter on each output parameter. The results of this work have practical applications in machining. The following input parameters of the drilling process should be used to obtain the smallest values of each output parameter: for CYL, n = 4775 rpm, fn = 0.14 mm/rev and KIN III; for RON, n = 4775 rpm, fn = 0.1 or 0.12 mm/rev and KIN II; for DE, n = 3979 rpm, fn = 0.1 mm/rev and KIN I; and for Rz, n = 4775 rpm, fn = 0.1 mm/rev and KIN II. This research work also used Grey Relational Analysis with which input parameter optimization was derived. The optimal drilling parameters are spindle speeds of 4775 rpm, a feed per revolution of 0.1 mm/rev and the use of the first kinematic system. This paper also includes equations for predicting each parameter that describes the dimensional and shape accuracy and roughness of the hole surface. Using the first kinematic system reduced the roughness of the hole surface by as much as 58%. The correct selection of kinematic system improved its dimensional accuracy by 15%. On the other hand, the roundness deviation of the hole improved by 33% and the cylindricity deviation of the hole by 6%.
Enhancing LightGBM for Industrial Fault Warning: An Innovative Hybrid Algorithm
Authors: Li Shuai , Jin Nan , Dogani Azadeh , Yang Yang , Zhang Ming , Gu Xiangyun
Published: January 2024

The reliable operation of industrial equipment is imperative for ensuring both safety and enhanced production efficiency. Machine learning technology, particularly the Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM), has emerged as a valuable tool for achieving effective fault warning in industrial settings. Despite its success, the practical application of LightGBM encounters challenges in diverse scenarios, primarily stemming from the multitude of parameters that are intricate and challenging to ascertain, thus constraining computational efficiency and accuracy. In response to these challenges, we propose a novel innovative hybrid algorithm that integrates an Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm (AOA), Simulated Annealing (SA), and new search strategies. This amalgamation is designed to optimize LightGBM hyperparameters more effectively. Subsequently, we seamlessly integrate this hybrid algorithm with LightGBM to formulate a sophisticated fault warning system. Validation through industrial case studies demonstrates that our proposed algorithm consistently outperforms advanced methods in both prediction accuracy and generalization ability. In a real-world water pump application, the algorithm we proposed achieved a fault warning accuracy rate of 90%. Compared to three advanced algorithms, namely, Improved Social Engineering Optimizer-Backpropagation Network (ISEO-BP), Long Short-Term Memory-Convolutional Neural Network (LSTM-CNN), and Grey Wolf Optimizer-Light Gradient Boosting Machine (GWO-LightGBM), its Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) decreased by 7.14%, 17.84%, and 13.16%, respectively. At the same time, its R-Squared value increased by 2.15%, 7.02%, and 3.73%, respectively. Lastly, the method we proposed also holds a leading position in the success rate of a water pump fault warning. This accomplishment provides robust support for the timely detection of issues, thereby mitigating the risk of production interruptions.
Decomposed Multilateral Filtering for Accelerating Filtering with Multiple Guidance Images
Authors: Nogami Haruki , Kanetaka Yamato , Naganawa Yuki , Maeda Yoshihiro , Fukushima Norishige
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes an efficient algorithm for edge-preserving filtering with multiple guidance images, so-called multilateral filtering. Multimodal signal processing for sensor fusion is increasingly important in image sensing. Edge-preserving filtering is available for various sensor fusion applications, such as estimating scene properties and refining inverse-rendered images. The main application is joint edge-preserving filtering, which can preferably reflect the edge information of a guidance image from an additional sensor. The drawback of edge-preserving filtering lies in its long computational time; thus, many acceleration methods have been proposed. However, most accelerated filtering cannot handle multiple guidance information well, although the multiple guidance information provides us with various benefits. Therefore, we extend the efficient edge-preserving filters so that they can use additional multiple guidance images. Our algorithm, named decomposes multilateral filtering (DMF), can extend the efficient filtering methods to the multilateral filtering method, which decomposes the filter into a set of constant-time filtering. Experimental results show that our algorithm performs efficiently and is sufficient for various applications.
Real-Time Three-Dimensional Pedestrian Localization System Using Smartphones
Authors: Shin Beomju , Kim Taehun , Lee Taikjin
Published: January 2024

Robust and accurate three-dimensional localization is essential for personal navigation, emergency rescue, and worker monitoring in indoor environments. For localization technology to be employed in various applications, it is necessary to reduce infrastructure dependence and limit the maximum error bound. This study aims to accurately estimate the location of various people using smartphones in a building with a cloud platform-based localization system. The proposed technology is modularized in a hierarchical structure to sequentially estimate the floor and location. This system comprises four localization modules: course level detection, fine level detection (FLD), fine location tracking (FLT), and level change detection (LCD). Each module operates organically according to the current user status. The position estimation range is defined as a total of three phases, and an appropriate location estimation module suitable for the corresponding phase operates to estimate the user’s location gradually and precisely. When the user’s floor is determined by an FLD, the two-dimensional position of the user is estimated by an FLT module that tracks the user’s position by comparing the received signal strength indicator vector sequence and radio map. Also, LCD recognizes the user’s floor change and converts the user’s phase. To verify the proposed technology, various experiments were conducted in a six-story building, and an average accuracy of less than 2 m was obtained.
Development and Performance Evaluation of a Smart Upper-Limb Rehabilitation Exercise Device
Authors: Jeoung Bogja , Choi Muncheong , Kim Alchan
Published: January 2024

User-friendly rehabilitation medical devices can enhance health and the quality of life through the convergence of information communication and medical technology. Muscle contraction enables bodily movement, and the assessment of muscle strength is crucial. Muscle contraction includes isometric, isotonic, and isokinetic types. Many individuals with physical disabilities rely on wheelchairs due to lower-limb paralysis. There is a substantial correlation between the level of upper-limb functional recovery and the quality of daily life. This study aimed to design and evaluate a device that utilizes various muscle contractions to enhance the effectiveness of upper-limb rehabilitation exercises. The results from the isometric performance assessment showed percentage error rates of >30% for 5–30 kg. Correction equations were employed, and the isometric performance assessment resulted in error rates below 2.1% for 5–30 kg. Isokinetic performance assessment using video analysis evaluated a consistent wire speed from 10 cm/s to 70 cm/s with an average error rate of 0.91% across all speeds. This study demonstrates the ability to accurately measure various muscle contractions and showcases the potential for real-time feedback. This highlights how such a device could be helpful for target groups, including older adults and individuals with disabilities, during upper-limb rehabilitation exercises.
Dynamic Response of Bridge–Tunnel Overlapping Structures under High-Speed Railway and Subway Train Loads
Authors: Xu Shuo , Xu Qiang , Zhu Yongquan , Guan Zhongzheng , Wang Zenghui , Fan Haobo
Published: January 2024

With the rapid development of high-speed railroads and subways, there has been an increasing number of bridge–tunnel overlapping structures. To study the dynamic response characteristics of bridge–tunnel structures under the synergistic effects of the vibration generated by high-speed railway and subway trains, the dynamic response characteristics of a bridge–tunnel structure under single-point vibration loading was analyzed by conducting numerical simulations and model tests, with the frequency response function and peak acceleration as the evaluation indices. The dynamic response characteristics of the overlapping structure under moving vibration loads of the high-speed railway and subway trains were further analyzed. The results showed that the dynamic response of the bridge–tunnel overlapping structure increased with the increase in the frequency under the full frequency domain single-point sweep vibration load. The dynamic response of the tunnel hance near the pile foundation side was significantly greater than the vault and invert. Compared with the effect of high-speed train loads alone, the dynamic response of the bridge–tunnel overlapping structure under the synergistic effects of high-speed railways and subways increased significantly and varied at different locations. This investigation provides theoretical support for the design and construction of bridge–tunnel overlapping structures under the synergistic effects of high-speed railways and subways, contributing to improving engineering quality and safety.
Technological Integration and Obstacles in China’s Agricultural Extension Systems: A Study on Disembeddedness and Adaptation
Authors: Hu Xinran , Xiao Bin , Tong Zhihui
Published: January 2024

In light of China’s evolving agricultural technology extension system, this study investigates a critical issue known as “technological disembeddedness”. This phenomenon, observed in the context of the country’s push towards administrative and market-oriented extension, reflects a significant disconnect between the formalized methods of technology extension, such as classroom instruction, and the practical needs of farmers. As a consequence, the envisioned improvements in agricultural production efficiency have not materialized as expected. The analysis, based on fieldwork conducted in Shandong Province from 2019 to 2020, identifies that different stakeholder interests have further exacerbated the situation. Agricultural technology extension, driven by diverse agendas, has been utilized as a tool for profit, resulting in a stark disparity in farmers’ access to technology and the emergence of multiple, formalized extension models. This marginalized small-scale farmers and undermined the initial objectives of the extension system. The study proposes a fundamental shift in approach. It advocates for a social-centric perspective on technology extension, suggesting that the solution lies in harnessing local community dynamics to gradually build a technology extension system that aligns with the practical realities of farmers’ production and daily lives. In summary, the study identifies “technological disembeddedness” as a primary challenge within China’s agricultural technology extension system. It underscores the need to reorient the approach towards a more socially connected model, with a focus on the local community’s role in creating a technology extension system that genuinely serves the needs of farmers.
Window Dressing in Impression Management: Does Negative Media Coverage Drive Corporate Green Production?
Authors: Gan Kaijun , Ye Silin
Published: January 2024

This study addresses the calls for research attention on corporate greenwashing and analyzes an environmental strategy in corporate impression management. We assume that negative media coverage triggers impression motivation and causes firms to adopt environmental strategies for impression construction based on the two-component model in impression management. Specifically, firms release credible signals, such as green investment, to cover concealed pollution emissions under the framework of a game with incomplete information. We posit that firms can select a window-dressing strategy under the pressures of negative media coverage by constructing two regression models, respectively. We also assess our underlying assumption of constraints from state ownership and institutional shareholdings by testing additional moderating relationships. Utilizing a sample of Chinese publicly listed firms from 2000 to 2010, our empirical results suggest that negative media coverage increases corporate green investment, but pollutant emissions are reduced correspondingly, and state ownership aggravates corporate window dressing while institutional shareholdings curb it. Our findings reveal the corporate social irresponsibility in environmental protection and sustainable development, and they offer important implications for firm stakeholders.
Leveraging Local Value in a Post-Smart Tourism Village to Encourage Sustainable Tourism
Authors: Kusumastuti Hadining , Pranita Diaz , Viendyasari Mila , Rasul Mohamad Sattar , Sarjana Sri
Published: January 2024

Post-Smart Tourism Destinations (PSTD) need a sense-of-place approach based on uniqueness and thematic differentiation to deliver authentic and valuable experiences. Information and communication technology (ICT), digital technology adoption, sustainable development, community empowerment and local wisdom, and destination uniqueness are keywords that will be further explored in the development of tourism villages in Kenderan as the most important tourism destination development at the village level. The development of smart tourism, proof of the disruption of digital technology in the tourism sector, has become the objective of almost every tourism destination in the world today, be it an urban or rural area. Since its initial emergence, the smart concept in tourism development has evolved. In the beginning, it focused on ICT and the adoption of digital technology. Along with the pressure of the global requirement to apply sustainable development, the focus of smart tourism later included sustainability in the application of smart technology, which made smart tourism development (STD) become smart and sustainable tourism development (SSTD). The post-smart tourism concept arose because many critics suggested that destinations tend to place too much focus on technology adoption and lack attention to local wisdom, inclusivity, and local indigenous aspects of destination development. Applied research implemented mixed methods in the form of qualitative research through expert judgment and quantitative research through structural equation modeling analysis. The results of this research show that creative events for the local aspects of a tourist village, digital competence, and sustainability practice are the building blocks for a post-smart tourism village, while digital competence and sustainable practice have a significant mediating effect of locality on post-smart tourism villages. To ensure a tourism village possesses sustainable competitive advantages, the village must explore and promote its locality aspects to differentiate itself as a tourist village by identifying its valuable, rare, inimitable, and non-substitutable tourism resources. The implication of this research is that to develop wise and distinctive smart tourism destinations, tourist villages should explore their local values and resources, embed them into their basic components and core resources of tourism, and co-create, distribute, deliver, and promote them to the global market through technology adoption and global sustainability value.
Emerging Perspectives on Diverse Nature-Oriented Sustainability Strategies
Authors: Tiwary Abhishek , Brown Neil
Published: January 2024

Increasing levels of nature-oriented sustainability strategies (NOSSs) are being recognized as offering solutions to combat climate change at scale, both through transformative infrastructure and autonomous technology innovations. This paper presents a synopsis of the mainstream literature covering the emerging trends from the last two decades across two broad trajectories of NOSS initiatives—“nature-inspired” (NI)- and “nature-based solution” (NBS)-oriented approaches. The specific scopes of these two approaches have been categorized into disciplinary fields, highlighting their peculiarities and commonalities, followed by an appreciation of their evolutionary trends based on the literature abundance over three distinct time-horizons—pre 2000, 2000–2010, and 2011–2021. We find ambitious levels of sustainability-led developments are driving NOSS initiatives beyond 2010; in particular, the increased level of NI approaches in the field of chemical processing, material structure, and renewable energy. Likewise, there has been rapid growth in NBS approaches in the last decade from a systems perspective, reducing the level of grey infrastructure by offering sustainable alternatives to the ecologically destructive technologies. However, we identify some crucial red herrings to the main-streaming of NOSSs as a ‘true sustainability solution’, such as the inherent challenges in their scaling-up, operation and management, and in ensuring ecologically and culturally adaptive interventions across different global contexts.
The Importance of Landscape during Long-Distance Running Activity
Authors: Gajdek Agata , Kasprzyk Idalia , Ortyl Bernadetta
Published: January 2024

Outdoor running has a positive impact on human health. Our study attempted to address the issue of what other aspects motivate people to take up running. We were particularly interested in the landscape and its significance at the stage of decision making regarding participation in races. Our goal was also to identify the landscape features of routes, which determine their popularity. We conducted surveys among running participants and spatial analyses using GIS tools. Great landscape values of running routes can contribute to the activation of a running society, especially those including women and city dwellers. The high diversity of the landscape of cross-country routes, especially in terms of their relief and land use, significantly affects their high landscape rating. Route profiles and running challenges are as important as landscape values. The landscape that runners observe during long-distance runs affects their regeneration and motivates them to finish competitions. Runs organised in mountain and foothill landscapes, characterised by a wide variety of landscapes, are particularly attractive for runners. This study illuminates how the enchanting tapestry of landscapes not only fuels the passion for outdoor running but also underscores the intricate relationship between humans and their surroundings. The results enable us to establish the key principles for designing new running routes that support runners during their exertion.
Regional Tourism Ecosystem as a Tool for Sustainable Development during the Economic Crisis
Authors: Polukhina Anna , Sheresheva Marina , Napolskikh Dmitry , Lezhnin Vladimir
Published: January 2024

The paper aims to examine the perspective on the development of regional tourism ecosystems as one of the pillars of sustainable development in Russian regions. In order to meet the research objective, we combined a variety of methods: the Delphi method to analyse expert views and carry out the process of weighting indicators, mathematical and statistical processing of the evaluation results to obtain a comprehensive estimate of tourism development in Russian regions. We moved through four stages, namely: studying the local ecosystems and natural resources; examination of historical and cultural resources; studying the socioeconomic resources in the regions; evaluating the skills and competencies of regional tourist office staff. Using complex sustainability indicators, we attempted to ascertain, on the one hand, how the current state of the tourism industry in Russian regions affects the overall sustainability of regional development. As a result, we presented rankings of the Russian regions depending on their complex sustainability indicators. On the other hand, we attempted to confirm that the availability, implementation, and establishment of novel approaches determine the future possibilities for the growth and strengthening of regional tourism sustainability. We found that there is a need for pervasive integration of innovations into conventional management approaches, including digital instruments supporting successful regional tourism ecosystem development. Finally, we proposed a model of such an ecosystem as a component of an innovative hypercluster.
Variations in the Tensorial Trapezoid Type Inequalities for Convex Functions of Self-Adjoint Operators in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Stojiljković Vuk , Mirkov Nikola , Radenović Stojan
Published: January 2024

In this paper, various tensorial inequalities of trapezoid type were obtained. Identity from classical analysis is utilized to obtain the tensorial version of the said identity which in turn allowed us to obtain tensorial inequalities in Hilbert space. The continuous functions of self-adjoint operators in Hilbert spaces have several tensorial norm inequalities discovered in this study. The convexity features of the mapping f lead to the variation in several inequalities of the trapezoid type.