bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Aperture-Dependent Spatial Scaling of Plasma Channels in HPHT Diamond
Authors: Gulina Yulia , Zhu Jiaqi , Krasin George , Kuzmin Evgeny , Kudryashov Sergey
Published: October 2023

The investigation of plasma channels induced by focused ultra-short 1030-nm laser pulses in bulk of synthetic High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) diamond revealed strong dependence of their spatial parameters on the used numerical aperture of the lens (NA = 0.15–0.45). It was shown that at weak focusing conditions it is possible to significantly increase the length of the plasma channel with a slight increase in pulse power, while tight focusing allows one to obtain more compact structures in the same range of used powers. Such a dependence paves the way to new possibilities in 3D processing of transparent dielectrics, allowing one, for example, to vary the spatial parameters of modified regions without changing the setup, but only by controlling the lens aperture, which seems very promising for industrial applications.
Aureobasidium pullulans Treatment Mitigates Drought Stress in Abies koreana via Rhizosphere Microbiome Modulation
Authors: Mannaa Mohamed , Han Gil , Jung Hyejung , Park Jungwook , Kim Jin-Cheol , Park Ae Ran , Seo Young-Su
Published: October 2023

The Korean fir tree Abies koreana, an endangered species in Korea, faces threats primarily from climate change-induced stress and drought. This study proposed a sustainable method to enhance A. koreana drought tolerance using a black yeast-like fungus identified as Aureobasidium pullulans (AK10). The 16S/ITS metabarcoding analysis assessed the impact of drought and AK10 treatment on the seedlings’ rhizosphere microbiome. Results revealed a profound drought influence on the microbiome, particularly affecting fungal mycobiota. Drought-stressed seedlings exhibited elevated Agaricaceae levels, opportunistic fungi generally associated with decomposition. AK10 treatment significantly mitigated this proliferation and increased the relative abundance of beneficial fungi like Cystofilobasidium and Mortierella, known biocontrol agents and phosphate solubilizers. A notable reduction in the phytopathogenic Fusarium levels was observed with AK10, alongside an increase in beneficial bacteria, including Azospirillum and Nitrospirillum. Furthermore, the conducted correlation analysis shed light on microbial interrelationships within the rhizosphere, elucidating potential co-associations and antagonisms. Taken together, the isolated A. pullulans AK10 identified in this study serves as a potential biostimulant, enhancing the drought tolerance in A. koreana through beneficial alterations in the rhizosphere microbiome. This approach presents a promising strategy for the conservation of this endangered species.
Improving Fertilizer Use Efficiency—Methods and Strategies for the Future
Authors: Barłóg Przemysław
Published: October 2023

This editorial introduces our Special Issue entitled “Improving Fertilizer Use Efficiency—Methods and Strategies for the Future”. The fertilizer use efficiency (FUE) is a measure of the potential of an applied fertilizer to increase the productivity and utilization of the nutrients present in the soil/plant system. FUE indices are mainly used to assess the effectiveness of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) fertilization. This is due to the low efficiency of use of NPK fertilizers, their environmental side effects and also, in relation to P, limited natural resources. The FUE is the result of a series of interactions between the plant genotype and the environment, including both abiotic and biotic factors. A full recognition of these factors is the basis for proper fertilization in farming practice, aimed at maximizing the FUE. This Special Issue focuses on some key topics in crop fertilization. Due to specific goals, they can be grouped as follows: removing factors that limit the nutrient uptake of plants; improving and/or maintaining an adequate soil fertility; the precise determination of fertilizer doses and application dates; foliar application; the use of innovative fertilizers; and the adoption of efficient genotypes. The most important nutrient in crop production is N. Hence, most scientific research focuses on improving the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). Obtaining high NUE values is possible, but only if the plants are well supplied with nitrogen-supporting nutrients. In this Special Issue, particular attention is paid to improving the plant supply with P and K.
Endophyte Community Changes in the Seeds of Eight Plant Species following Inoculation with a Multi-Endophytic Bacterial Consortium and an Individual Sphingomonas wittichii Strain Obtained from Noccaea caerulescens
Authors: Langill Tori , Wójcik Małgorzata , Vangronsveld Jaco , Thijs Sofie
Published: October 2023

Noccaea caerulescens, a hyperaccumulator plant species known for its metal tolerance and accumulation abilities, harbours a microbiome of interest within its seed. These seed-associated bacteria, often referred to as seed endophytes, play a unique role in seed germination and plant growth and health. This work aimed to address how inoculating seeds of eight different plant species—Medicago sativa (alfalfa), Zea mays (corn), Raphanus sativus (radish), Helianthus annus (sunflower), Cucurbita pepo subsp. pepo (squash), Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla (rainbow chard), Arabidopsis thaliana (thale cress), and Noccaea caerulescens (penny cress)—with a bacterial consortium made from the seed endophytes of N. caerulescens would affect the seed microbiome of each test plant species, as well as inoculation with a strain of the bacterium Sphingomonas wittichii, which was previously isolated from seeds of N. caerulescens. Additionally, we aimed to offer preliminary plant tests in order to determine the best seed treatment plan for future research. The results showed that inoculation with the bacterial consortium held the most potential for increasing plant size (p < 0.001) and increasing germination rate (p < 0.05). The plant that responded best to inoculation was N. caerulescens (penny cress), likely because the microbes being introduced into the seed were not foreign. This paper also offers the first insight into the seed endophytes of Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla, highlighting an abundance of Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteriota.
Functional Modules in the Meristems: “Tinkering” in Action
Authors: Kuznetsova Ksenia , Efremova Elena , Dodueva Irina , Lebedeva Maria , Lutova Ludmila
Published: October 2023

Background: A feature of higher plants is the modular principle of body organisation. One of these conservative morphological modules that regulate plant growth, histogenesis and organogenesis is meristems—structures that contain pools of stem cells and are generally organised according to a common principle. Basic content: The development of meristems is under the regulation of molecular modules that contain conservative interacting components and modulate the expression of target genes depending on the developmental context. In this review, we focus on two molecular modules that act in different types of meristems. The WOX-CLAVATA module, which includes the peptide ligand, its receptor and the target transcription factor, is responsible for the formation and control of the activity of all meristem types studied, but it has its own peculiarities in different meristems. Another regulatory module is the so-called florigen-activated complex, which is responsible for the phase transition in the shoot vegetative meristem (e.g., from the vegetative shoot apical meristem to the inflorescence meristem). Conclusions: The review considers the composition and functions of these two functional modules in different developmental programmes, as well as their appearance, evolution and use in plant breeding.
Effects of Melt-Blown Processing Conditions on Nonwoven Polylactic Acid and Polybutylene Succinate
Authors: Pratumpong Patcharee , Cholprecha Thananya , Roungpaisan Nanjaporn , Srisawat Natee , Toommee Surachet , Pechyen Chiravoot , Parcharoen Yardnapar
Published: October 2023

This research aimed to prepare nonwovens from polylactic acid and polybutylene succinate using the melt-blown process while varying the melt-blown process parameters, including air pressure (0.2 and 0.4 MPa) and die-to-collector distance (15, 30, and 45 cm). Increasing the air pressure and die-to-collector distance resulted in the production of smaller fibers. Simultaneously, the tensile strength was dependent on the polymer, air pressure, and die-to-collector distance used, and the percentage elongation at the break tended to increase with an increasing die-to-collector distance. Regarding thermal properties, the PBS nonwovens exhibited an increased level of crystallinity when the die-to-collector distance was raised, consistent with the degree of crystallinity obtained from X-ray diffraction analysis. Polylactic acid could be successfully processed into nonwovens under all six investigated conditions, whereas nonwoven polybutylene succinate could not be formed at a die-to-collector distance of 15 cm. However, both polymers demonstrated the feasibility of being processed into nonwovens using the melt-blown technique, showing potential for applications in the textile industry.
Mineralized Collagen/Polylactic Acid Composite Scaffolds for Load-Bearing Bone Regeneration in a Developmental Model
Authors: Zhu Wenbo , Li Wenjing , Yao Mengxuan , Wang Yan , Zhang Wei , Li Chao , Wang Xiumei , Chen Wei , Lv Hongzhi
Published: October 2023

Repairing load-bearing bone defects in children remains a big clinical challenge. Mineralized collagen (MC) can effectively simulate natural bone composition and hierarchical structure and has a good biocompatibility and bone conductivity. Polylactic acid (PLA) is regarded as a gold material because of its mechanical properties and degradability. In this study, we prepare MC/PLA composite scaffolds via in situ mineralization and freeze-drying. Cell, characterization, and animal experiments compare and evaluate the biomimetic properties and repair effects of the MC/PLA scaffolds. Phalloidin and DAPI staining results show that the MC/PLA scaffolds are not cytotoxic. CCK-8 and scratch experiments prove that the scaffolds are superior to MC and hydroxyapatite (HA)/PLA scaffolds in promoting cell proliferation and migration. The surface and interior of the MC/PLA scaffolds exhibit rich interconnected pore structures with a porosity of ≥70%. The XRD patterns are typical HA waveforms. X-ray, micro-CT, and H&E staining reveal that the defect boundary disappears, new bone tissue grows into MC/PLA scaffolds in a large area, and the scaffolds are degraded after six months of implantation. The MC/PLA composite scaffold has a pore structure and composition similar to cancellous bone, with a good biocompatibility and bone regeneration ability.
Formulation and Characterization of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Loaded with Troxerutin
Authors: Jamous Yahya F. , Altwaijry Najla A. , Saleem Mohamed T. S. , Alrayes Aljoharah F. , Albishi Sara M. , Almeshari Mashael A.
Published: October 2023

Troxerutin (TXR), a naturally derived compound with diverse therapeutic potential, faces limitations in clinical efficacy due to poor bioavailability and rapid plasma clearance. This study focuses on troxerutin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (TXR-SLNs) and their physicochemical properties, intending to enhance drug release. TXR-SLNs were prepared via high-shear homogenization followed by ultrasonication, yielding optimized nanoparticles with an average size of 140.5 ± 1.02 nm, a uniform distribution (polydispersity index: 0.218 ± 0.01), and a stable emulsion (zeta potential: 28 ± 8.71 mV). The formulation exhibited 83.62% entrapment efficiency, indicating improved drug-loading capacity and extended drug release. Spectroscopic and thermodynamic analyses confirmed component compatibility. Despite a decline in entrapment efficiency induced by temperature after one month of storage at 23 °C, the formulation may retain acceptable stability. This study provides insight into SLNs as effective carriers for enhancing troxerutin’s release profile, motivating further in vivo investigations to optimize therapeutic interventions.
Optimization of the Parameters for Gravity Heat Pipes in Coal Gangue Hills by Measuring Thermal Power Generation
Authors: Zhang Xiaogang , Zhang Xinghua , Ge Shaocheng , Zhang Bailin
Published: October 2023

In order to effectively control high temperatures inside coal gangue hills, gravity heat pipes with specific spacings are vertically installed in coal gangue hills. Heat extracted from these heat pipes can be utilized for power generation through energy conversion. In this study, an equivalent model of gravity heat pipes in coal gangue hills was established and, in a laboratory setting, experimental research and optimization were conducted on power generation per unit area using the temperature difference of gravity heat pipes for electricity generation. To facilitate real-time testing of different heat pipe parameters and to display the experimental results, a multi-parameter measurement system was designed and constructed. This study systematically investigated the effects of various structural parameters such as inclination angle, heating temperature, initial absolute pressure, and working fluid height. Through single-factor experiments, it was determined that the inclination angle had no significant impact. The range of values for heating temperature, initial absolute pressure, and working fluid height were confirmed based on six sets of experiments. To maximize the performance of the thermoelectric generator, a response surface analysis experiment was conducted using the Design-Expert software. The optimal conditions were determined to be a working fluid height of 200.001 mm, an initial absolute pressure of 0.002 MPa, and a heating temperature of 413.15 K. Under these conditions, the power generation per unit area of the thermoelectric generator reached 0.122981 W/(m2·K). The accuracy of the theoretical experiments was verified through on-site industrial experiments. By calculations, it was determined that the maximum temperature difference power generation capacity per gravity heat pipe was 42.39 W. This provides a new solution for the management of coal mine gangue hills and the secondary utilization of waste energy.
Polyethylene Composite Particles as Novel Water Plugging Agent for High-Temperature and High-Salinity Reservoirs
Authors: Deng Bo , Yang Ning , Li Jiangang , Zou Chenwei , Tang Yunpu , Gu Jianwei , Liu Yifei , Liu Wei
Published: October 2023

Water channeling has always been one of the urgent problems during oilfield development. Especially for fractured reservoirs with high temperature, high salinity, and severe heterogeneity (e.g., deep carbonate reservoirs), it is difficult for the existing plugging agents to realize effective water plugging. In this paper, chemically stable polyethylene (PE) was selected as the main component to prepare multiscale PE composite particles that can be easily dispersed in water as a novel water plugging agent for fractured reservoir with high temperature and high salinity. The characteristics of the prepared PE composite particles, including thermal stability, salinity resistance, dispersibility, coalescence properties, and microscopic morphology, were systematically studied. Finally, the plugging performance of the particles was evaluated through visual physical simulation experiments. The prepared PE composite particles can be pulverized to a minimum of 6 μm, and the particle size is controllable within 6 μm to 3 mm by adjusting the pulverization parameters. The PE composite particles are easily dispersed in water by adding the dispersant, which is conducive to injectivity during the field application process. The particle size remains unchanged under the condition of salinity of 0–3.0 × 105 mg/L, which indicates that the prepared particles have good salt-resistant stability. After high-temperature aging, the particles adhere to each other, and the size of the agglomerations reach a size dozens of times larger than the initial size of the particle, which is conducive to effective plugging in fractures. Thermal degradation behavior analysis shows that the PE composite particles could theoretically withstand a temperature of 434.4 °C. It can be seen from the SEM images that after high-temperature melting and kneading with other components, the microstructure changes from a fibrous structure to a dense flake structure. Physical simulation experiments show that the PE composite particles accumulate in fracture after injection and form effective plugging through coalescence and adhesion of the particles, thereby realizing water flow diversion.
Storage Duration and Added Docosahexaenoic Acid Modify the Rates of Esterified and Free Oxylipin Formation in Infant Milk Formula
Authors: Furlan Gonçalves Dias Fernanda , Teixeira Bianca Ferraz , Vieira Thais Maria Ferreira de Souza , de Moura Bell Juliana Maria Leite Nobrega , Taha Ameer Y.
Published: October 2023

Infant milk formulas often contain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a highly unsaturated fatty acid that is prone to oxidation. Previously, we reported in oil that the esterified lipid pool is more prone to lipid oxidation than the free pool. However, it is unknown whether added DHA modifies lipid oxidation in infant formula. In the present study, we quantified lipid oxidation rates in infant milk formula containing canola oil (F1) or canola oil supplemented with DHA-ethyl ester (F2). Lipid oxidation kinetics were determined by quantifying esterified and free oxylipins using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) during storage for 21 days at 4 °C. Esterified oxylipins increased in concentration within 3 and 7 days of storage in F2 (with DHA) and F1, respectively. Free oxylipins appeared 7 and 14 days later in F2 and F1, respectively. The kinetic estimates revealed that esterified oxylipins formed at a faster rate in both formulas compared to free oxylipins. Surprisingly, in F2 (which contains DHA), the rates of formation of both esterified and free linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid-derived oxylipins were higher than in F1. This study demonstrated that in food systems, DHA promotes the oxidation of other PUFAs, and that triacylglycerol/esterified lipids are preferentially oxidized over free fatty acids, highlighting the role of triacylglycerols in lipid oxidation.
Research of the Performance of a Hydraulic Actuator Based on an Acoustic Power Analysis
Authors: Szurgacz Dawid
Published: October 2023

The powered roof support in a mining complex protects machines and people from the harmful effects of the rockmass. The design of the powered roof support should be strictly prepared for adverse working conditions. This especially applies to the construction of the hydraulic actuator, which is designed to transfer uncontrolled load relief. The hydraulic actuators and an adequately selected safety valve determine the requirements for safe work. The study analyses the hydraulic actuators based on the signal obtained from the dynamic impact. The signal obtained from the load of the powered roof support in the bench tests allowed us to determine the opening time of the safety valve, which is not much different than the time of the pressure increase. Until now, the valve’s operation has been primarily analysed regarding pressure increase. This research was intended to determine whether introducing the sound power method for developing powered roof support research in the near future would be helpful. The sub-piston pressure increased during bench testing, generating a dynamic impact signal. The analysed results of the sound power tests in terms of their suitability for the development of standards related to powered roof support. This paper describes a new approach to research on powered roof support. Determining the acoustic power based on bench tests for the hydraulic actuator of a powered longwall support is ground-breaking research. The research results pave the way for new technologies based on acoustic information.
Poetry and the Qurʾan: The Use of tashbīh Particles in Classical Arabic Texts
Authors: Hussein Ali Ahmad
Published: October 2023

This study examines the use of five tashbīh (simile) particles which appear in close frequency in pre-and early Islamic poetry and in the Qurʾan. The particles are ka-(as), ka-mā (such as), mithl (like), and derivatives of the roots ḥsb (deem) and shbh (looks like, similar to). As well as understanding classical Arabic techniques for composition of similes, the study examines aspects of the interrelationship between the Qurʾan and the poetry corpus, the single surviving Arabic text to which the scripture was exposed. It finds greater common structural and lexical similarities between poetry and the Qurʾan in its earlier period (during the Meccan Revelation, 610–622 CE) than later, following the migration of Prophet Muḥammad to Medina (622–632 CE), when other ways of using these particles developed. This suggests surveying these techniques in other texts possibly known to Medinian society, such as the Bible. The present study outlines the premise that qurʾanic composition moved from the influence of the Arabic prototype seen in the poetry in the earliest periods of Revelation to a different form in later periods (texts, possibly biblical). This premise can be further explored by future examination of the interrelationship between the Qurʾan, pre- and early Islamic poetry and the Bible.
Risk Structure of Banks in Spain: Do BHCs Have Greater Cost of Debt?
Authors: Boliari Natalia , Topyan Kudret , Wang Chia-Jane
Published: October 2023

Holding companies legally separate the assets and owners of a company creating a layer of liability protection. Theoretically, this feature lowers the risk attributable to holding companies, enabling them to offer lower-cost debts compared to stand-alone alternatives. However, no study has ever tested this hypothesis due to its technical and practical difficulties. Testing this hypothesis requires a separate classification of holding and stand-alone companies’ outstanding debts to compare their risk spreads, controlling the bonds’ risk ranking, maturities, and issue sizes. Further, a model is needed to make the callable bond spreads with unknown maturity dates comparable to non-callable bonds. This work is the first attempt to evaluate the risk spreads of stand-alone banks and bank holding companies in Spain by including all outstanding rated bonds offered by Spanish banks. In order to make callable bond spreads comparable with noncallable bond spreads, we obtained the option-adjusted spreads for the bonds using a lattice option-pricing model that treats the callable bonds as a bond with embedded options. We then regressed to option-adjusted spreads on control variables and ownership structure dummy to see if there exists a statistically and economically significant coefficient for the introduced dummy variable. We found that bank-holding company bonds have higher risk spreads compared to the stand-alone alternatives in Spain. This may be attributable to the characteristics of holding companies that introduce other risks that offset the gains obtained from the added layer of liability protection.
A DeturNet-Based Method for Recovering Images Degraded by Atmospheric Turbulence
Authors: Li Xiangxi , Liu Xingling , Wei Weilong , Zhong Xing , Ma Haotong , Chu Junqiu
Published: October 2023

Atmospheric turbulence is one of the main issues causing image blurring, dithering, and other degradation problems when detecting targets over long distances. Due to the randomness of turbulence, degraded images are hard to restore directly using traditional methods. With the rapid development of deep learning, blurred images can be restored correctly and directly by establishing a nonlinear mapping relationship between the degraded and initial objects based on neural networks. These data-driven end-to-end neural networks offer advantages in turbulence image reconstruction due to their real-time properties and simplified optical systems. In this paper, inspired by the connection between the turbulence phase diagram characteristics and the attentional mechanisms for neural networks, we propose a new deep neural network called DeturNet to enhance the network’s performance and improve the quality of image reconstruction results. DeturNet employs global information aggregation operations and amplifies notable cross-dimensional reception regions, thereby contributing to the recovery of turbulence-degraded images.
LiDAR-Generated Images Derived Keypoints Assisted Point Cloud Registration Scheme in Odometry Estimation
Authors: Zhang Haizhou , Yu Xianjia , Ha Sier , Westerlund Tomi
Published: October 2023

Keypoint detection and description play a pivotal role in various robotics and autonomous applications, including Visual Odometry (VO), visual navigation, and Simultaneous Localization And Mapping (SLAM). While a myriad of keypoint detectors and descriptors have been extensively studied in conventional camera images, the effectiveness of these techniques in the context of LiDAR-generated images, i.e., reflectivity and ranges images, has not been assessed. These images have gained attention due to their resilience in adverse conditions, such as rain or fog. Additionally, they contain significant textural information that supplements the geometric information provided by LiDAR point clouds in the point cloud registration phase, especially when reliant solely on LiDAR sensors. This addresses the challenge of drift encountered in LiDAR Odometry (LO) within geometrically identical scenarios or where not all the raw point cloud is informative and may even be misleading. This paper aims to analyze the applicability of conventional image keypoint extractors and descriptors on LiDAR-generated images via a comprehensive quantitative investigation. Moreover, we propose a novel approach to enhance the robustness and reliability of LO. After extracting keypoints, we proceed to downsample the point cloud, subsequently integrating it into the point cloud registration phase for the purpose of odometry estimation. Our experiment demonstrates that the proposed approach has comparable accuracy but reduced computational overhead, higher odometry publishing rate, and even superior performance in scenarios prone to drift by using the raw point cloud. This, in turn, lays a foundation for subsequent investigations into the integration of LiDAR-generated images with LO.
A PANN-Based Grid Downscaling Technology and Its Application in Landslide and Flood Modeling
Authors: Zhang Binlan , Ouyang Chaojun , Wang Dongpo , Wang Fulei , Xu Qingsong
Published: October 2023

The efficiency and accuracy of grid-based computational fluid dynamics methods are strongly dependent on the chosen cell size. The computational time increases exponentially with decreasing cell size. Therefore, a grid coarsing technology without apparent precision loss is essential for various numerical modeling methods. In this article, a physical adaption neural network (PANN) is proposed to optimize coarse grid representation from a fine grid. A new convolutional neural network is constructed to achieve a significant reduction in computational cost while maintaining a relatively accurate solution. An application to numerical modeling of dynamic processes in landslides is firstly carried out, and better results are obtained compared to the baseline method. More applications in various flood scenarios in mountainous areas are then analyzed. It is demonstrated that the proposed PANN downscaling method outperforms other currently widely used downscaling methods. The code is publicly available and can be applied broadly. Computing by PANN is hundreds of times more efficient, meaning that it is significant for the numerical modeling of various complicated Earth-surface flows and their applications.
Cranial Electrode Belt Position Improves Diagnostic Possibilities of Electrical Impedance Tomography during Laparoscopic Surgery with Capnoperitoneum
Authors: Koldova Kristyna , Rara Ales , Muller Martin , Tyll Tomas , Roubik Karel
Published: October 2023

Laparoscopic surgery with capnoperitoneum brings many advantages to patients, but also emphasizes the negative impact of anesthesia and mechanical ventilation on the lungs. Even though many studies use electrical impedance tomography (EIT) for lung monitoring during these surgeries, it is not clear what the best position of the electrode belt on the patient’s thorax is, considering the cranial shift of the diaphragm. We monitored 16 patients undergoing a laparoscopic surgery with capnoperitoneum using EIT with two independent electrode belts at different tomographic levels: in the standard position of the 4th–6th intercostal space, as recommended by the manufacturer, and in a more cranial position at the level of the axilla. Functional residual capacity (FRC) was measured, and a recruitment maneuver was performed at the end of the procedure by raising the positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) by 5 cmH2O. The results based on the spectral analysis of the EIT signal show that the ventilation-related impedance changes are not detectable by the belt in the standard position. In general, the cranial belt position might be more suitable for the lung monitoring during the capnoperitoneum since the ventilation signal remains dominant in the obtained impedance waveform. FRC was significantly decreased by the capnoperitoneum and remained lower also after desufflation.
Multisensory System for Long-Term Activity Monitoring to Facilitate Aging-in-Place
Authors: Lluva-Plaza Sergio , Jiménez-Martín Ana , Gualda-Gómez David , Villadangos-Carrizo José Manuel , García-Domínguez Juan Jesús
Published: October 2023

Demographic changes and an ageing population require more effective methods to confront the increased prevalence of chronic diseases which generate dependence in older adults as well as an important rise in social expenditure. The challenge is not only to increase life expectancy, but also to ensure that the older adults can fully enjoy that moment in their lives, living where they wish to (private home, nursing home, …). Physical activity (PA) is a representative parameter of a person’s state of health, especially when we are getting older, because it plays an important role in the prevention of diseases, and that is the reason why it is promoted in older adults. One of the goals of this work is to assess the feasibility of objectively measuring the PA levels of older adults wherever they live. In addition, this work proposes long-term monitoring that helps to gather daily activity patterns. We fuse inertial measurements with other technologies (WiFi- and ultrasonic-based location) in order to provide not only PA, but also information about the place where the activities are carried out, including both room-level location and precise positioning (depending on the technology used). With this information, we would be able to generate information about the person’s daily routines which can be very useful for the early detection of physical or cognitive impairment.
Wearable Nano-Based Gas Sensors for Environmental Monitoring and Encountered Challenges in Optimization
Authors: Hooshmand Sara , Kassanos Panagiotis , Keshavarz Meysam , Duru Pelin , Kayalan Cemre Irmak , Kale İzzet , Bayazit Mustafa Kemal
Published: October 2023

With a rising emphasis on public safety and quality of life, there is an urgent need to ensure optimal air quality, both indoors and outdoors. Detecting toxic gaseous compounds plays a pivotal role in shaping our sustainable future. This review aims to elucidate the advancements in smart wearable (nano)sensors for monitoring harmful gaseous pollutants, such as ammonia (NH3), nitric oxide (NO), nitrous oxide (N2O), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3), hydrocarbons (CxHy), and hydrogen fluoride (HF). Differentiating this review from its predecessors, we shed light on the challenges faced in enhancing sensor performance and offer a deep dive into the evolution of sensing materials, wearable substrates, electrodes, and types of sensors. Noteworthy materials for robust detection systems encompass 2D nanostructures, carbon nanomaterials, conducting polymers, nanohybrids, and metal oxide semiconductors. A dedicated section dissects the significance of circuit integration, miniaturization, real-time sensing, repeatability, reusability, power efficiency, gas-sensitive material deposition, selectivity, sensitivity, stability, and response/recovery time, pinpointing gaps in the current knowledge and offering avenues for further research. To conclude, we provide insights and suggestions for the prospective trajectory of smart wearable nanosensors in addressing the extant challenges.
A Comparative Analysis of Multi-Label Deep Learning Classifiers for Real-Time Vehicle Detection to Support Intelligent Transportation Systems
Authors: Shokri Danesh , Larouche Christian , Homayouni Saeid
Published: October 2023

An Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) is a vital component of smart cities due to the growing number of vehicles year after year. In the last decade, vehicle detection, as a primary component of ITS, has attracted scientific attention because by knowing vehicle information (i.e., type, size, numbers, location speed, etc.), the ITS parameters can be acquired. This has led to developing and deploying numerous deep learning algorithms for vehicle detection. Single Shot Detector (SSD), Region Convolutional Neural Network (RCNN), and You Only Look Once (YOLO) are three popular deep structures for object detection, including vehicles. This study evaluated these methodologies on nine fully challenging datasets to see their performance in diverse environments. Generally, YOLO versions had the best performance in detecting and localizing vehicles compared to SSD and RCNN. Between YOLO versions (YOLOv8, v7, v6, and v5), YOLOv7 has shown better detection and classification (car, truck, bus) procedures, while slower response in computation time. The YOLO versions have achieved more than 95% accuracy in detection and 90% in Overall Accuracy (OA) for the classification of vehicles, including cars, trucks and buses. The computation time on the CPU processor was between 150 milliseconds (YOLOv8, v6, and v5) and around 800 milliseconds (YOLOv7).
Career Choices, Representation of Work and Future Planning: A Qualitative Investigation with Italian University Students
Authors: Felaco Cristiano , Zammitti Andrea , Marcionetti Jenny , Parola Anna
Published: October 2023

Choosing a career is one of the most challenging for young adults, and the representations of work could influence how people make decisions and build their career paths. This qualitative study examined the career choices, representations of work and future plans of 58 Italian university students. Semi-structured interviews were analyzed using a consensual qualitative research procedure. The results emphasize the centrality of environmental conditions and internal factors such as vocation and internal resources in career choice processes. Also crucial is students’ discussion of the meaning attributed to work as good for oneself and others. Finally, most students present in their narratives, clear future plans. Findings suggest themes to explore in career guidance interventions. Unpacking the influences of choices and working on the meaning attributed to work appears pivotal to career counseling interventions to orient young people toward powerfully pursuing their career choices.
Analyzing the Stability of Rock Surrounding Deep Cross-Tunnels Using a Dynamic Velocity Field
Authors: Xiao Yaxun , Chen Shujie , Wang Zhaofeng , Liu Liu , Du Canxun
Published: October 2023

With the increasing number of deep rock engineering projects, many different types of tunnels have emerged, such as cross-tunnels. These tunnels intersect with each other in rock, which causes potential safety hazards. We must analyze the stability of the surrounding rock, to ensure worker safety. This article presents a method for dynamically assessing the stability of the surrounding rock in deep-buried cross-tunnels. The method consists of two main analysis steps: (1) P-wave velocity field inversion; and (2) Stability analysis of the surrounding rock. The P-wave velocity field inversion involves inverting the S-wave velocity field by Rayleigh wave and inverting the P-wave velocity field by adjoint state traveltime tomography. Then, a method of stability analysis is proposed which is used to update the mechanical properties of the rock (based on the continuously updated wave velocity field). The elastic modulus of the surrounding rock is approximated throughout the excavation process. CASRock V1.0 (Cellular Automation Software for engineering Rockmass fracturing processes) is used to assess rock damage via the equivalent plastic shear strain and local energy release rate. The new method is used to analyze the stability of a new tunnel excavated in Jinping (in China). The results reveal the severity and spatial distribution of the damage caused. The yield depth is concentrated near the sidewalls, while the top and bottom of the tunnel exhibit a smaller depth. The yield depths present a particular pattern of change (high–low–high–low) with increasing distance from tunnel #2. Finally, this research enriches our understanding of excavating deep cross-tunnels and makes an important contribution to improving worker safety in deep cross-tunnels.
State of Knowledge on the Effects of Tire-Derived Aggregate (TDA) Used in Civil Engineering Projects on the Surrounding Aquatic Environment
Authors: Park Jae K. , DeNooyer Isabella G. , Wahl Jack H.
Published: October 2023

Tire-derived aggregate (TDA) is an entirely recycled material created by processing scrap tires, which are shredded into a fundamental geometric shape, typically measuring from 5 to 30 cm in size. TDA possesses desirable properties such as low earth pressure, improved drainage, and a lightweight structure, making it an ideal material for numerous civil engineering applications. Unfortunately, the environmental suitability of TDA use has previously been questioned. This article outlines that TDA does not release a significant amount of potentially toxic compounds, the leaching rate in surrounding water environments is low, and TDA can even be a medium to remove nutrients and toxic organic and inorganic compounds commonly found in agricultural land and urban runoff. This study aims to collect the most up-to-date scientific data on the environmental impact of scrap tires and evaluate the data specifically for TDA applications in civil and environmental engineering applications. TDA has been proven to be an environmentally safe, long-lasting, cost-effective, and sustainable resource with many potential applications in civil engineering. Guidelines should be developed for specific projects to achieve a circular economy for end-of-life tires in the form of TDA to avoid potential environmental issues and problems.
Mapping Smart Materials’ Literature: An Insight between 1990 and 2022
Authors: Petrașcu Raul Mihai , Racz Sever-Gabriel , Rusu Dan-Mihai
Published: October 2023

The field of smart materials (SMs) is an area of great interest in the scientific community and one that is growing considerably from year to year due to the features this field brings to the development of high-performance products and applications. Considering these aspects, researchers choose to contribute to this field, and every year, an increasing number of scientific publications appear in the databases. Based on this consideration, the present paper approaches the domain of SMs from a quantitative perspective by carrying out a bibliometric analysis to provide young researchers with a mapping of the most important aspects, as well as the evolution of the field. The bibliometric analysis was carried out in the time frame 1990–2022 in the Web of Science (WoS) database, finding only selected research and review articles based on the most relevant keywords used in the domain. Based on the large number of results identified (8998 publications), the authors designed a classification of the most important aspects of bibliometric analysis.
Forecasting Worldwide Temperature from Amazon Rainforest Deforestation Using a Long-Short Term Memory Model
Authors: Dominguez David , Barriuso Pastor Javier , Pantoja-Díaz Odette , González-Rodríguez Mario
Published: October 2023

Biosphere–atmosphere interactions are a critical component of the Earth’s climate system. Many of these interactions are currently contributing to temperature increases and accelerating global warming. One of the main factors responsible for this is land use and land cover changes; in particular, this work models the interaction between Amazon rainforest deforestation and global temperatures. A Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural network is proposed to forecast temperature trends, including mean, average minimum, and average maximum temperatures, in 20 major cities worldwide. The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the Earth’s “lungs”, plays a pivotal role in regulating global climate patterns. Over the past two decades, this region has experienced significant deforestation, largely due to human activities. We hypothesize that the extent of deforestation in the Amazon can serve as a valuable proxy for understanding and predicting temperature changes in distant urban centers. Using a dataset that tracks cumulative deforestation from 2001 to 2021 across 297 municipalities in the Amazon rainforest, a multivariate time series model was developed to forecast temperature trends worldwide up to 2030. The input data reveal a variety of behaviors, including complex deforestation patterns. Similarly, the forecasted temperature data showcases diverse trends. While some cities are expected to exhibit a steady temperature increase, others may experience gradual changes, while some cities may undergo drastic and rapid temperature shifts. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the far-reaching impacts of deforestation on global climate patterns and underscore the importance of preserving vital ecosystems like the Amazon rainforest.
Sustainable Integration of Solar Energy, Behavior Change, and Recycling Practices in Educational Institutions: A Holistic Framework for Environmental Conservation and Quality Education
Authors: Altassan Abdulrahman
Published: October 2023

Environmental sustainability in educational institutions is a critical concern for addressing global challenges. This research presents a comprehensive framework for sustainable energy conservation, behavior change, and recycling practices in schools, with the aim of fostering environmental consciousness among students and enhancing overall educational quality. The framework integrates solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, encouraging students’ participation in their maintenance while repurposing collected water for plant irrigation and using organic waste as a natural fertilizer. By creating a micro-ecosystem within schools, the approach cultivates a generation of environmentally aware individuals who actively contribute to environmental stewardship. The framework aligns with Saudi Arabia’s 2030 vision of improving quality of life and increasing green surfaces. It promotes environmental awareness, facilitates clean energy adoption, and reduces operational costs. The role of municipalities and recycling bodies is crucial for its successful execution, involving waste management support, educational programs, and regulatory compliance. Through collaboration between schools, municipalities, and recycling bodies, the framework aims to create a culture of sustainability. It envisions students as advocates, gaining experiential knowledge in renewable energy technologies and waste management. This research offers a roadmap for schools to integrate solar energy, behavior change, and recycling practices, positioning them as leaders in environmental stewardship. The framework underscores the importance of collaborative efforts, financial support, and awareness campaigns. By embracing this comprehensive approach, schools can play a pivotal role in mitigating climate change, promoting sustainable living, and inspiring a brighter future for generations to come.
Fostering Collective Action in a Village-Tank Cascade-Based Community in Sri Lanka: An Illusion or Reality?
Authors: Ariyawanshe I.D.K.S.D. , Fujimura Miho , Abeyrathne A.H.M.S.W.B. , Kazunari Tsuji
Published: October 2023

Collective action has inevitable importance for sustainable governance of shared resource systems with interactions across multiple social and spatial scales. Village irrigation tanks in Sri Lanka have been recognized as shared resource systems sustainably managed through the collective action of local communities throughout history. Increased population pressure on shared resources and expanded socio-economic relationships over time have led to extended resource-based interactions between people. This occurred beyond village tanks within the broader scale of Village-Tank-Cascade Systems (VTCS), in which village tanks are constituent sub-units. This demands the cross-scale collective action of local communities for sustainable governance of VTCS, which has become a challenging endeavor in the current context. This case study explores the dynamics of collective action across multiple social and spatial scales within a VTCS by identifying existing collective action arenas, drivers, and limitations for the local community to engage in collective action through a mixed-methods approach with reference to the Medde Rambewa cascade system in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. Findings reveal that collective action arenas of VTCS-based local communities occur in response to common challenges posed by disturbed environmental equilibria and as a part of people’s lifestyle, with outcomes contributing to climate change adaptation, livelihood support, risk or emergency preparedness, and promoting social identity. Economic incentives, rules, and fines imposed by Farmers’ Organizations (FOs) were found to be drivers of currently adopted collective activities at the scale of village tanks. While collective action prevails beyond the scale of individual village tanks when governed by community institutions, shared resource uses, and social relationships among actors, individualistic resource uses occur in the absence of legitimate regulatory mechanisms. The study highlights the need for legitimate, scale-sensitive solutions to long-overdue common problems experienced by VTCS-based communities in order to foster meaningful collective action on a broader scale.
A Blockchain-Based Solution for Diploma Management in Universities
Authors: Caramihai Mihai , Severin Irina
Published: October 2023

Diplomas are of particular importance in society, as they serve as official proof of education. Therefore, it is not surprising that counterfeits of such documents have become common. Thus, employers usually have to verify diplomas manually with the issuer. In line with the principles of social responsibility (accountability, transparence, ethical behavior, respect of stakeholders’ interest), ensure inclusive and equitable quality education (SDG 4) become a priority for universities. Blockchain technology creates opportunities to surmount these obstacles because it has revolutionized the way people interact with each other. For that purpose, a total of 147 students from a technical university in Romania answered questionnaires to determine how familiar they are with blockchain concepts and what they think about the implementation of this technology. Further, structured interviews were conducted with education and ICT experts to determine the main advantages and disadvantages, applications, and needs for adopting blockchain technology. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to explore the influence of blockchain on education through the assessment of 69 variables. The final part contains the consequences of the analysis’s findings and potential future advancements.