bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate Smart Agriculture and Resilience
Authors: Safdar Muhammad , Shahid Muhammad Adnan , Yang Ce , Rasul Fahd , Tahir Muhammad , Raza Aamir , Sabir Rehan Mehmood
Published: April 2024

Climate change poses significant challenges to global agriculture, necessitating sustainable practices to ensure food security and mitigate environmental impacts. Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is a technique that aims to boost agricultural productivity, improve adaptive ability, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It includes practices like crop management, sustainable farming, agroforestry, precision farming, and climate-resilient crop varieties. CSA improves soil health, water use efficiency, erosion, carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and resource utilization. Precision agriculture tools like remote sensing and data analytics enable site-specific management decisions. Climate-resilient crop types, such as drought-tolerant, heat-tolerant, and disease-resistant, are crucial for food production under changing climatic conditions. Encouraging laws, institutional frameworks, and financial incentives are essential for CSA implementation. However, more research and collaboration are needed to promote widespread adoption of CSA practices.
Data-Driven Precision Agriculture for Crop Prediction and Fertilizer Recommendation Using Machine Learning
Authors: Tiwari Yashi , Verma Ayush , Khari Manju
Published: April 2024

Crop prediction and fertilizer recommendation are essential for optimizing agricultural practices, a crucial concern for the agricultural sector. However, accurate crop and fertilizer prediction has long been challenging, requiring innovative solutions rooted in the vast pool of available data. This work presents a comprehensive system for predicting crops and fertilizers based on historical data, leveraging machine learning (ML) algorithms. This work involved research analysis of various ML algorithms to predict crops and recommend suitable fertilizers. It was observed that Naive Bayes and random forest models achieved an excellent accuracy of 99.54% and 99.31%, respectively, for soil classification, indicating their proficiency in distinguishing different soil types. The proposed system also suggests fertilizer recommendations tailored to each crop based on user-provided input and a comparative evaluation of the algorithms. These results highlight the potential of ML techniques in aiding farmers to make informed decisions about soil management and fertilizer selection.
The Responsibility of Directors for Sustainable Corporate Governance
Authors: Bratina Borut
Published: April 2024

In this chapter, the author discusses the issue of the transition of corporate governance from profit-making to sustainable business operations, with a view to reducing the adverse impact on the nature environment and human rights. Next, he attempts to define more precisely the concept of “social responsible business.” In doing so, it distinguishes the concept of sustainability from that of sustainable development. In a separate chapter, he analyses the significance and impact that the EU directive on due diligence in business will have on sustainability. In doing so, it concludes that the introduction of legal criminal and civil liability for companies and their directors and supervisors for company (un)sustainable corporate behevior must bi done at a global level, as otherwise companies will relocate their headquarters to countries with a lower level of protection of the natural environment.
Design of Intelligent Control Systems for Layered Water Injections in Oilfields
Authors: Cheng Hanlie , Qin Qiang
Published: April 2024

With rapid socio-economic growth and increased energy demand, exploration and exploitation of oil and gas resources have become crucial. Long-term exploitation leads to problems such as pressure drop and production reduction in oil fields, and water injection technology has become a common method to improve these problems. The traditional direct water injection for oil extraction has problems such as high injection cost and low oil recovery efficiency. Therefore, an intelligent control system for different oilfield reservoirs is needed. This study focuses on the layered water injection intelligent system based on advanced sensor technology, digital signal processing and intelligent algorithms. The article reviews the advantages of layered water injection system and the current research status, designs an intelligent control structure including hardware circuits and modular software processes, and adopts adaptive particle swarm optimization algorithm as the core of intelligent control.
COVID-19, movilidad y comercio en el Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México
Authors: Ipiña García Orlando Isaac
Published: April 2024

El espacio público es el escenario donde se construye una compleja red de relaciones de poder que impulsan los fenómenos sociopolíticos, culturales y económicos que influyen en la concepción del territorio. Si existe un proceso exógeno como la pandemia que afecte las características estructurales del sistema, este se verá reflejado en las prácticas que ocurren en el espacio público. La presente investigación se centró en los usuarios del Sistema de Transporte Colectivo Metro (STC) que ascendían y descendían en las estaciones ubicadas en el Centro Histórico durante 2020, y su correlación con las actividades comerciales y de servicios que se desarrollaron en esta zona. Fue una investigación exploratoria-descriptiva de tipo empírica y se utilizó un método de análisis deductivo y enfoque mixto. Se instrumentó el diseño de un modelo matemático y un análisis cualitativo en función de la observación sistemática y entrevistas fugaces. La investigación llegó a dos resultados: el modelo matemático puso en evidencia la sobresaturación del transporte público y la posibilidad de que su uso aumentara el número de contagios en diferentes zonas de la ciudad; y la informalidad como respuesta ante la crisis económica que afectó a comerciantes y habitantes que compran y consumen servicios en el Centro Histórico.
Espacios públicos urbanos en condición geográfica como dispositivos de adaptación al cambio climático
Authors: Magrini Claudio , Seguel-Medina Cristian , Tobar-Avendaño Constanza
Published: April 2024

En el presente artículo se proponen dos espacios públicos urbanos para el sistema de quebradas de Valparaíso, basados en la investigación H30 Valparaíso, como posibilidad de adaptación ante el cambio climático. En lo específico, son un híbrido entre infraestructuras hídricas adaptadas a la estratificación geológica de Valparaíso y playas en superficie que articulan la condición pública. Están ubicadas al fondo de las quebradas y almacenan agua que luego se maneja en favor de los servicios ecosistémicos de las cuencas hidrográficas o como recurso contra incendios forestales. Se trata de propuestas proyectuales con fuerte base científica y multidisciplinar y, por su condición geográfica, indican nuevas posibilidades para los planes de adaptación al cambio climático de las ciudades.
exploración de la teoría vernacular y la producción informal del espacio público: caso Piura, Perú
Authors: Schroeder Stella
Published: April 2024

Las actividades no autorizadas, también conocidas como informales, han sido parte de la vida urbana durante mucho tiempo. Aunque se han realizado diversos estudios sobre la informalidad urbana con enfoques distintos, la comprensión de estos entornos sigue siendo parcial, ya que muchos se centran en la vivienda y pocos consideran el espacio público. El objetivo de este estudio es comprender la producción de los espacios públicos informales y argumentar que la teoría vernácula puede aplicarse como una lente para reinterpretar el urbanismo informal y analizar las prácticas y pequeños espacios involucrados. Utilizando datos empíricos de Piura, Perú, se ha empleado un enfoque mixto que combina métodos cuantitativos y cualitativos. Mediante una actividad cartográfica, se ha creado una base de datos de 496 espacios producidos con dibujos de planta que ayudan a identificar las características espaciales. La discusión explora los puntos en común entre la informalidad y la arquitectura vernácula.
Independencia barrio-jardín. Un modelo residencial y de espacio público de origen cooperativista (1926-1953)
Authors: Campos Gajardo Alicia , Harris Diez Ronald , González Erices Daniel , Pacheco Aravena Raúl
Published: April 2024

La arquitectura residencial de la comuna santiaguina de Independencia –construida a partir del primer tercio del siglo XX y organizada en conjuntos de características homogéneas en torno al espacio público conformado por áreas verdes o plazas para su equipamiento– ha experimentado un abrupto cambio con la emergencia de edificaciones de vivienda colectiva en altura, evidenciando la ausencia de una comprensión y valoración de sus características formales que han otorgado identidad a la comuna a lo largo del tiempo. El objetivo de la presente investigación es contribuir al conocimiento de 10 conjuntos residenciales situados en esa comuna, asociándolos a una apropiación de la idea de “barrio-jardín”, en lo que fuera la periferia norte de la ciudad. Se pone de relieve la acción del cooperativismo que se desarrolló como forma de gestión de la vivienda obrera, otorgando sentido al espacio público.
Espacio público en la Araucanía: Imaginarios urbanos y reconfiguración de la plaza republicana en la Frontera
Authors: Pérez-Bustamante Leonel , Arévalo-Molina Yabel , Fuentes-Hernández Pablo
Published: April 2024

Los imaginarios urbanos y geográficos parecieran ser portadores de idearios culturales propios de las élites locales en su búsqueda por organizar los territorios. Tratándose de la Araucanía, durante el siglo XIX el Estado chileno inició un complejo proceso de ocupación territorial que incluyó desde acciones militares hasta un cambio en las distintas narrativas en las que se entendía ese territorio. La investigación problematiza sobre la insistencia por retrotraer símbolos y signos de origen mapuche para instalarlos de forma contemporánea en los espacios públicos, planteándose la hipótesis de que la expresión material de la ciudad contribuye a la formación de identidades al ser un resultado de contenidos y significados propios de un contexto físico y sociocultural variado. Los resultados indican que la presencia de elementos mapuche en la producción y reinterpretación de espacios públicos contemporáneos continúan siendo una cierta representación de la instalación del Estado-nación chileno en La Araucanía.
Transformación y configuración socioespacial del espacio público del Centro Administrativo Municipal de Armenia, Quindío, durante los últimos 20 años
Authors: Cifuentes Monsalve Diana Marcela , Correa Artunduaga Vicente
Published: April 2024

El espacio público representa la articulación de complejidades sociales situadas en un espacio físico, es decir, es el lugar de intercambio social, colectivo y simbólico de una ciudad. El objetivo de este artículo es exponer la transformación y la configuración física y espacial de un espacio simbólico de la ciudad de Armenia, Quindío, que comprende dinámicas de uso del imaginario urbano de la antigua plaza de Mercado. La metodología de corte cualitativo comprende la técnica de cartografía urbana y observación participante. Por ello, los resultados exponen un análisis físico y espacial de la configuración de la manzana que comprende el Centro Administrativo Municipal de Armenia, cuya representatividad se funda en el simbolismo y las complejidades de los usos del espacio público que demuestran un espacio de resistencia a los modelos contemporáneos de intervención urbana como espacio de integración y apropiación social.
Projeto urbanístico da Vila-Praça (Brasil): alternativa de tecido urbano sustentável para cidades brasileiras
Authors: Tavares Jeferson Cristiano , Fernandes Minaré Mariana , Matoso Santos Janaina
Published: April 2024

O objetivo é explorar alternativas de projeto urbanístico ao tecido urbano tradicional das cidades brasileiras. A investigação parte da compreensão de como as políticas públicas interferem no tecido urbano e apresenta o caso da Vila-Praça, projeto urbanístico realizado por parceria entre universidade e gestão pública, com foco nas soluções multifuncionais e multiescalares. Sumariza os limites metodológicos que buscam integrar conhecimentos interdisciplinares. Discute os desafios institucionais para sua implantação diante dos obstáculos enfrentados e, como conclusão, constrói o argumento central de que projetos urbanísticos formulados como crítica aos problemas atuais têm potencial de inovar por soluções sustentáveis. Metodologicamente, o artigo tem caráter exploratório, trabalha com definições de tecido urbano e parte do conceito de “disrupted cities” (Graham, 2010), cuja ênfase está em demonstrar como ocorre o colapso das infraestruturas urbanas diante das transformações recentes (mudanças climáticas, dispersão urbana, escassez de recursos, etc.). E apresenta novas formas para superá-las, justificando a experiência projetual.
Present situation of minimally invasive surgical treatment for early gastric cancer
Authors: Li Chun-Yan , Wang Yi-Feng , Luo Li-Kang , Yang Xiao-Jun
Published: April 2024

Minimally invasive surgery is a kind of surgical operation, which is performed by using professional surgical instruments and equipment to inactivate, resect, repair or reconstruct the pathological changes, deformities and wounds in human body through micro-trauma or micro-approach, in order to achieve the goal of treatment, its surgical effect is equivalent to the traditional open surgery, while avoiding the morbidity of conventional surgical wounds. In addition, it also has the advantages of less trauma, less blood loss during operation, less psychological burden and quick recovery on patients, and these minimally invasive techniques provide unique value for the examination and treatment of gastric cancer patients. Surgical minimally invasive surgical techniques have developed rapidly and offer numerous options for the treatment of early gastric cancer (EGC): endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), underwater EMR (UEMR), endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR), endoscopic submucosal excavation (ESE), submucosal tunnel endoscopic resection), laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS); Among them, EMR, EFTR and LECS technologies have a wide range of applications and different modifications have been derived from their respective surgical operations, such as band-assisted EMR (BA-EMR), conventional EMR (CEMR), over-the-scope clip-assisted EFTR, no-touch EFTR, the inverted LECS, closed LECS, and so on. These new and improved minimally invasive surgeries are more precise, specific and effective in treating different types of EGC.
Establishment of a cholangiocarcinoma risk evaluation model based on mucin expression levels
Authors: Yang Chun-Yuan , Guo Li-Mei , Li Yang , Wang Guang-Xi , Tang Xiao-Wei , Zhang Qiu-Lu , Zhang Ling-Fu , Luo Jian-Yuan
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly malignant cancer, characterized by frequent mucin overexpression. MUC1 has been identified as a critical oncogene in the progression of CCA. However, the comprehensive understanding of how the mucin family influences CCA progression and prognosis is still incomplete.

AIM

To investigate the functions of mucins on the progression of CCA and to establish a risk evaluation formula for stratifying CCA patients.

METHODS

Single-cell RNA sequencing data from 14 CCA samples were employed for elucidating the roles of mucins, complemented by bioinformatic analyses. Subsequent validations were conducted through spatial transcriptomics and immunohistochemistry. The construction of a risk evaluation model utilized the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression algorithm, which was further confirmed by independent cohorts and diverse data types.

RESULTS

CCA tumor cells with elevated levels of MUC1 and MUC4 showed activated nucleotide metabolic pathways and increased invasiveness. MUC5AC -high cells were found to promote CCA progression through WNT signaling. MUC5B -high cells exhibited robust cellular oxidation activities, leading to resistance against antitumoral treatments. MUC13 -high cells were observed to secret chemokines, recruiting and transforming macrophages into the M2-polarized state, thereby suppressing antitumor immunity. MUC16 -high cells were found to promote tumor progression through interleukin-1/nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells signaling upon interaction with neutrophils. Utilizing the expression levels of these mucins, a risk factor evaluation formula for CCA was developed and validated across multiple cohorts. CCA samples with higher risk factors exhibited stronger metastatic potential, chemotherapy resistance, and poorer prognosis.

CONCLUSION

Our study elucidates the functional mechanisms through which mucins contribute to CCA development, and provides tools for risk stratification in CCA.
Risk factors, prognostic factors, and nomograms for distant metastasis in patients with diagnosed duodenal cancer: A population-based study
Authors: Shang Jia-Rong , Xu Chen-Yi , Zhai Xiao-Xue , Xu Zhe , Qian Jun
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Duodenal cancer is one of the most common subtypes of small intestinal cancer, and distant metastasis (DM) in this type of cancer still leads to poor prognosis. Although nomograms have recently been used in tumor areas, no studies have focused on the diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of DM in patients with primary duodenal cancer.

AIM

To develop and evaluate nomograms for predicting the risk of DM and personalized prognosis in patients with duodenal cancer.

METHODS

Data on duodenal cancer patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2019 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent risk factors for DM in patients with duodenal cancer, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were used to determine independent prognostic factors in duodenal cancer patients with DM. Two novel nomograms were established, and the results were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

RESULTS

A total of 2603 patients with duodenal cancer were included, of whom 457 cases (17.56%) had DM at the time of diagnosis. Logistic analysis revealed independent risk factors for DM in duodenal cancer patients, including gender, grade, tumor size, T stage, and N stage (P < 0.05). Univariate and multivariate COX analyses further identified independent prognostic factors for duodenal cancer patients with DM, including age, histological type, T stage, tumor grade, tumor size, bone metastasis, chemotherapy, and surgery (P < 0.05). The accuracy of the nomograms was validated in the training set, validation set, and expanded testing set using ROC curves, calibration curves, and DCA curves. The results of Kaplan-Meier survival curves (P < 0.001) indicated that both nomograms accurately predicted the occurrence and prognosis of DM in patients with duodenal cancer.

CONCLUSION

The two nomograms are expected as effective tools for predicting DM risk in duodenal cancer patients and offering personalized prognosis predictions for those with DM, potentially enhancing clinical decision-making.
Transcriptome sequencing reveals novel biomarkers and immune cell infiltration in esophageal tumorigenesis
Authors: Sun Jian-Rong , Chen Dong-Mei , Huang Rong , Wang Rui-Tao , Jia Li-Qun
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, and its development comprises a multistep process from intraepithelial neoplasia (IN) to carcinoma (CA). However, the critical regulators and underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown.

AIM

To explore the genes and infiltrating immune cells in the microenvironment that are associated with the multistage progression of ESCC to facilitate diagnosis and early intervention.

METHODS

A mouse model mimicking the multistage development of ESCC was established by providing warter containing 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4NQO) to C57BL/6 mice. Moreover, we established a control group without 4NQO treatment of mice. Then, transcriptome sequencing was performed for esophageal tissues from patients with different pathological statuses, including low-grade IN (LGIN), high-grade IN (HGIN), and CA, and controlled normal tissue (NOR) samples. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the LGIN, HGIN, and CA groups, and the biological functions of the DEGs were analyzed via Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses. The CIBERSORT algorithm was used to detect the pattern of immune cell infiltration. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was also conducted to validate our results. Finally, the Luminex multiplex cytokine analysis was utilized to measure the serum cytokine levels in the mice.

RESULTS

Compared with those in the NOR group, a total of 681541, and 840 DEGs were obtained in the LGIN, HGIN, and CA groups, respectively. Using the intersection of the three sets of DEGs, we identified 86 genes as key genes involved in the development of ESCC. Enrichment analysis revealed that these genes were enriched mainly in the keratinization, epidermal cell differentiation, and interleukin (IL)-17 signaling pathways. CIBERSORT analysis revealed that, compared with those in the NOR group, M0 and M1 macrophages in the 4NQO group showed stronger infiltration, which was validated by IHC. Serum cytokine analysis revealed that, compared with those in the NOR group, IL-1β and IL-6 were upregulated, while IL-10 was downregulated in the LGIN, HGIN, and CA groups. Moreover, the expression of the representative key genes, such as S100a8 and Krt6b, was verified in external human samples, and the results of immunohistochemical staining were consistent with the findings in mice.

CONCLUSION

We identified a set of key genes represented by S100a8 and Krt6b and investigated their potential biological functions. In addition, we found that macrophage infiltration and abnormal alterations in the levels of inflammation-associated cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10, in the peripheral blood may be closely associated with the development of ESCC.
Digital Twin Based Multi-Vehicle Cooperative Warning System on Mountain Roads
Authors: Tian Liheng , Yu Zirui , Chen Xinguo
Published: April 2024

Compared with urban areas, the road surface in mountainous areas generally has a larger slope, larger curvature and narrower width, and the vehicle may roll over and other dangers on such a road. In the case of limited driver information, if the two cars on the mountain road approach fast, it is very likely to occur road blockage or even collision. Multi-vehicle cooperative control technology can integrate the driving data of nearby vehicles, expand the perception range of vehicles, assist driving through multi-objective optimization algorithm, and improve the driving safety and traffic system reliability. Most existing studies on cooperative control of multiple vehicles is mainly focused on urban areas with stable environment, while ignoring complex conditions in mountainous areas and the influence of driver status. In this study, a digital twin based multi-vehicle cooperative warning system was proposed to improve the safety of multiple vehicles on mountain roads. First, implement the mapping from reality to the cloud , and establish a multi-vehicle mountain road driving digital twin model based on vehicle dynamics through cloud data and local data. This model focuses on the roll and longitudinal movement of the vehicle. Then, the ground influence factor is introduced to correct the minimum headway on sloping ground. The classification model from the Support Vector Machine is used to identify and classify driver behavior patterns, and adjust the weight of each vehicle in the queue. Next, a multi-vehicle cooperative warning system is used to predict the development mode of the vehicle group, including the rollover predictor, the front predictor and the digital twin prediction model. It provides warnings for specific targets. Finally, a simulation was conducted. The results show that in a short prediction time, the LLTR error of the flip predictor is stable near the actual value within 1.6 seconds, and the prediction results of the distance predictor are consistent with the facts. The system can effectively achieve preliminary warning of the fleet and improve the safety of multi-vehicle driving on mountain roads.
Cooperative Connected and Automated Mobility in a Roundabout
Authors: Previati Giorgio , Uccello Lorenzo , Mastinu Gianpiero , Gobbi Massimiliano , Albanese Antonino , Roccasalva Alessandro , Santin Gabriele , Luca Massimiliano , Lepri Bruno , Ferrarotti Laura , di Pietro Nicola
Published: April 2024

Roundabouts are intersections at which automated cars seem currently not performing sufficiently well. Actually, sometimes, they get stuck and the traffic flow is seriously reduced. To overcome this problem a V2N-N2V (vehicle-to-network-network-to-vehicle) communication scheme is proposed. Cars communicate via 5G with an edge computer. A cooperative machine-learning algorithm orchestrates the traffic. Automated cars are instructed to accelerate or decelerate with the triple aim of improving the traffic flow into the roundabout, keeping safety constraints, and providing comfort for passengers on board of automated vehicles. In the roundabout, both automated cars and human-driven cars run. The roundabout scenario has been simulated by SUMO. Additionally, the scenario has been reconstructed into a dynamic driving simulator, with a real human driver in a virtual reality environment. The aim was to check the human perception of traffic flow, driving safety and driving comfort. The hardware for letting cars communicate via 5G (telematic box) has been developed and tested in the virtual reality environment of the dynamic driving simulator. Human drivers require relatively low jerk but feel safe and comfortable driving with the automated cars instructed by the cooperative machine learning algorithm.
Research on Occupant Injury Prediction Method of Vehicle Emergency Call System Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Huida Zhang , Liu Yu , Rui Yang , Wu Xiaofan , Fan Tiqiang , Wan Mingxin
Published: April 2024

The on-board emergency call system with accurate occupant injury prediction can help rescuers deliver more targeted traffic accident rescue and save more lives. We use machine learning methods to establish, train, and validate a number of classification models that can predict occupant injuries (by determining whether the MAIS (Maximum Abbreviated Injury Scale) level is greater than 2) based on crash data, and ranked the correlation of some factors affecting vehicle occupant injury levels in accidents. The optimal model was selected by the model prediction accuracy, and the Grid Search method was used to optimize the hyper-parameters for the model. The model is based on 2799 two-vehicle collision accident data from NHTSA CISS (The Crash Investigation Sampling System of NHTSA) traffic accident database.The results show that the model achieves high-precision prediction of occupant injury MAIS level (recall rate 0.8718, AUC(Area under Curve) 0.8579) without excluding vehicle model, and the top 8 relevant features given by the model are: lateral speed change, occupant age, longitudinal speed change, seat belt usage, occupant gender, lateral speed change direction, airbag trigger, and longitudinal speed change direction. We believe that this method can be used to complete organ-level post-crash injury prediction after adding more features, which has great potential to improve the efficiency of traffic accident rescue and reduce the casualty rate.
Ethics in the Driver's Seat: Unravelling the Ethical Dilemmas of AI in Autonomous Driving
Authors: Wani Ankit , Kumari Deepa , Singh Jyotsana
Published: April 2024

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the field of autonomous driving has led to significant breakthroughs, enabling the development of highly sophisticated driving assistant systems. However, as these systems become more prevalent, it is crucial to address the ethical considerations surrounding their deployment and operation. This research paper delves into the multifaceted domain of ethics in AI for Autonomous Driving Assistant System ADAS/AD systems, analyzing various use cases and exploring different scenarios. Ethical concerns in AI for autonomous driving encompass a wide range of topics, including safety, privacy concerns related to data collection and usage, decision-making, ethical dilemmas, accountability, and societal impact. This research focuses on intricate challenges that arise in the field of autonomous driving and investigates these issues by examining real-world use cases. Such exploration is intended to shed light on the complex ethical challenges that arise in the context of autonomous driving. This research paper presents comprehensive investigations of different approaches for designing ethical decision-making algorithms, considering utilitarianism, deontological principles, and the concept of moral responsibility. This research critically assesses the potential consequences for various stakeholders e.g., drivers, pedestrians, etc. This analysis helps us to understand the broader ethical ramifications of the widespread adoption of autonomous driving technologies and the evaluation of the legal and ethical frameworks necessary to address ethical considerations, including liability, accountability, and the establishment of industry standards. The purpose of this research is to advocate for transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement as fundamental principles for ensuring the ethical use of these technologies. This research endeavour presents valuable insight for policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers in navigating the complex ethical landscape of autonomous driving technologies, eventually aiding in the growing prominence of autonomous vehicles.
A Technical and Economical Evaluation for the Potential of Using Fuel Cells as Charging Stations for Electric Vehicles in MENA Region
Authors: Abdulrazeq Mostafa , Abdel-Rehim Ahmed A.
Published: April 2024

Electric vehicles are gaining popularity as an alternative to conventional gasoline-powered vehicles since they provide a cleaner and more environmentally friendly form of mobility. The market of electric vehicles is expanding, and the availability of dependable and effective sustainable charging infrastructure is needed to satisfy this expansion. This has prompted researchers to look for innovative alternative charging systems that can offer effective charging while reducing emissions such as fuel cells. In this study, the viability and sustainability of employing fuel cells as electric vehicle charging stations in Egypt, as an example of the MENA region, were studied from the technical and economic point of views. The technical analysis used a simulation for the whole fuel cell system, which was provided by MathWorks MATLAB Simulink software. The economic analysis for the system included the capital and the operational costs for two hydrogen sources, grey hydrogen, and green hydrogen. The results showed that 2 Kg of hydrogen can produce about 50 kWh of energy, which is enough to charge one standard car from zero level, resulting in a hydrogen consumption rate of approximately 0.040 kg/kWh. The economic analysis showed that the hydrogen fuel costs over a span of 20 years a total cost of $1,008,425 and $2,554,363 for grey hydrogen and green hydrogen respectively and the selling price should be $0.086 per kWh for grey hydrogen and $0.22 per kWh for green hydrogen.
Enhanced Longitudinal Vehicle Speed Control for an Autonomous Gas-Engine Vehicle: Improving Performance and Efficiency
Authors: Chang Insu , Karnjate Timothy
Published: April 2024

A linear parameter-varying model predictive control (LPVMPC) is proposed to enhance the longitudinal vehicle speed control of a gas-engine vehicle, with potential application in autonomous vehicles. To achieve this objective, an advanced vehicle dynamic model and a sophisticated fuel consumption model are derived, forming a control-oriented model for the proposed control system. The vehicle dynamic model accurately captures the motions of the tires and the vehicle body. The fuel consumption model incorporates new powertrain modes such as automatic engine stop/start, active fuel management, and deceleration fuel cut-off, etc. The performance of the proposed LPV-MPC is evaluated by comparing it to a PID controller. Both simulation tests and vehicle-in-the-loop tests demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed controller. The results indicate that the LPV-MPC provides improved longitudinal vehicle speed control and reduced fuel consumption.
Development of a 0D/1D Model System for the Cycle-to-Cycle Variation of High Tumble Spark Ignition Engines
Authors: Feng Ye , Mirsch Niklas , Mir Daniel Ismail , Kulzer André Casal , Grill Michael , Steeger Fabian , Blomberg Michael , Pischinger Stefan
Published: April 2024

Due to increasingly strict emission regulations, the demand for internal combustion engine performance has enhanced. Combustion stability is one of the main research focuses due to its impacts on the emission level. Moreover, the combustion instability becomes more significant under the lean combustion concept, which is an essential direction of internal combustion engine development. The combustion instability is represented as the cycle-to-cycle variation. This paper presents a quasi-dimensional model system for predicting the cycle-to-cycle variation in 0D/1D simulation. The modeling is based on the cause-and-effect chain of cycle-to-cycle variation of spark ignition engines, which is established through the flow field analysis of large eddy simulation results [1]. In the model system, varying parameters are turbulent kinetic energy, the distribution of air-to-fuel equivalence ratio, and the in-cylinder velocity field. The model system considers both the global and the local variations at the spark plug and includes several sub-models. The start of cyclic variation, i.e., the tumble variation and its effect on turbulent intensity, are solved based on the quasi-dimensional Turbulence Model [2]. The standard deviation of the air-to-fuel equivalence ratio distribution in the cylinder is modeled by the quasi-dimensional Homogenization Model [3] and is used to indicate the variation range of local lambda at the spark plug. The Initial Flame Growth Model is developed to consider the effects of local flow conditions at the spark plug on the early flame kernel propagation. As a result, the model system can calculate multiple cycles for one operation point in 0D/1D simulation to represent the cycle-to-cycle variation of spark ignition engines.
A Three-Way Catalyst Model for a Bio-Methane Heavy-Duty Engine: Characterization at Different Lambda
Authors: Di Maio Dario , Guido Chiara , Napolitano Pierpaolo , Beatrice Carlo
Published: April 2024

Given the spread of natural gas engines in low-term toward decarbonization and the growing interest in gaseous mixtures as well as the use of hydrogen in Heavy-Duty (HD) engines, appropriate strategies are needed to maximize thermal efficiency and achieve near-zero emissions from these propulsor systems.

In this context, some phenomena related to real-world driving operations, such as engine cut-off or misfire, can lead to inadequate control of the Air-to-Fuel ratio, key factor for Three-Way Catalyst (TWC) efficiency.

Goal of the present research activity is to investigate the performance of a bio-methane-fueled HD engine and its Aftertreatment System (ATS), consisting of a Three-Way Catalyst, at different Air-to-Fuel ratio. An experimental test bench characterization, in different operating conditions of the engine workplan, was carried out to evaluate the catalyst reactivity to a defined pattern of the Air-to-Fuel ratio. Through the detection of key performance parameters and indicated signals, numerous insights into the combustion process and the amount of chemical species in the upstream and downstream TWC gas flow are provided.

The experimental test campaign has provided an in-depth analysis of the engine behavior in such operating conditions together with a consistent dataset for a subsequent validation of a “quasi-steady” 1D model of the reactor.

A surface reactions kinetic mechanism to simulate the main transport and chemical phenomena inside the catalyst has been set-up in 1D simulation platform. To reproduce the dynamics of oxygen storage and release, reactions involving Cerium are included in the kinetic reaction scheme.

As a final step, a dedicated experimental campaign in two very lean conditions, maintaining the same operating condition and fuel composition, proving to be an evaluable tool to assess the catalyst performance in reproducing the main pollutants formation and conversion.
Next Generation High Efficiency Boosted Engine Concept
Authors: Shelby Michael H. , Case Mark E. , Chesney Lynn A.
Published: April 2024

This work represents an advanced engineering research project partially funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Ford Motor Company, FEV North America, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory collaborated to develop a next generation boosted spark ignited engine concept. The project goals, specified by the DOE, were 23% improved fuel economy and 15% reduced weight relative to a 2015 or newer light-duty vehicle. The fuel economy goal was achieved by designing an engine incorporating high geometric compression ratio, high dilution tolerance, low pumping work, and low friction. The increased tendency for knock with high compression ratio was addressed using early intake valve closing (EIVC), cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), an active pre-chamber ignition system, and careful management of the fresh charge temperature. Engine weight reduction measures were implemented throughout the engine system making use of composite materials, advanced manufacturing techniques, and architectural choices. The combustion system stability, EGR tolerance, and knock resistance were validated on a single cylinder engine. An inline six-cylinder engine was then designed targeting application in the Ford F150. Multi-cylinder engines were produced and tested achieving the target vehicle fuel economy improvement of 23% assessed using measured engine fuel consumption combined with a vehicle drive cycle simulation. Actions were identified and designs were demonstrated to achieve the 15% weight reduction target. This project included items covering a range of technology readiness levels. Some of the technologies explored are production ready, while others were investigated to understand the limitations for what can be achieved in a stoichiometric, gasoline-fueled, spark-ignited internal combustion engine.
Further Advances in Demonstration of a Heavy-Duty Low NOX System for 2027 and Beyond
Authors: Sharp Christopher , Neely Gary , Zavala Bryan , Rao Sandesh , McDonald Joseph , Sanchez James L.
Published: April 2024

Multiple areas in the U.S. continue to struggle with achieving National Ambient Air Quality Standards for ozone. These continued issues highlight the need for further reductions in NOX emission standards in multiple industry sectors, with heavy-duty on-highway engines being one of the most important areas to be addressed. Starting in 2014, CARB initiated a series of technical demonstration programs aimed at examining the feasibility of achieving up to a 90% reduction in tailpipe NOX, while at the same time maintaining a path towards GHG reductions that will be required as part of the Heavy-Duty Phase 2 GHG program. These programs culminated in the Stage 3 Low NOX program, which demonstrated low NOX emissions while maintaining GHG emissions at levels comparable to the baseline engine. Building on that prior program effort, EPA continued to support further Low NOX demonstration efforts in support of the development of new Federal Emissions Standards for heavy-duty highway vehicles and engines as part of the Clean Trucks Plan.

Some of these efforts have been reported in previous publications, which focused on the evaluation of a modified Stage 3 architecture to extended useful life, as well as examination of various challenges related to field duty cycles, in-use measurements, sensors, and fuel. Beyond these efforts, EPA also undertook a redesign effort to produce an updated Low NOX aftertreatment system. The updated system incorporated many lessons learned from previous efforts, as well as recent catalyst process and formulation updates to improve performance and durability in key areas. This updated system was evaluated for emission control performance and durability using the Stage 3 Low NOX test engine. The updated system was aged to 800,000 equivalent miles using DAAAC accelerated aging techniques, and it was evaluated over both regulatory and field duty cycles. The results of these evaluations are presented within this paper.
Cost-Effective D-DPF Design of Aftertreatment System for Non-Road Mobile Machinery China Stage IV
Authors: Chen Jian , He Chiyi , Wang Xuhua , Liu Yi , Yu Lei
Published: April 2024

Since Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) China stage IV legislation has been implemented from 2022, some engines within maximum rated power between 37 to 560 kW are required for gaseous emissions, particulate matter (PM) and particulate number (PN) control, evaluated over testing cycle of Non-Road Transient Cycle (NRTC) and Non-Road Steady Cycle (NRSC). The pollutants from diesel engines, widely used in NRMM applications, can be controlled using aftertreatment systems which are comprised of a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), or optionally a selective catalytic reduction (SCR). In this paper, a compact D-DPF design is introduced and discussed on application in harvesters, tractors, and forklifts. Because harvesters have higher exhaust gas temperature than other applications, more passive regeneration behaviors were observed. Subsequently, a compact design of DOC catalyst on DPF (D-DPF) was studied, in other words is to coat DOC catalyst on DPF. For a diesel engine with 3.6 litter(L) displacement application, the total length of D-DPF was shortened around 15% compared to the conventional design of a DOC and a downstream DPF. Meantime, D-DPF design also has higher gaseous emission conversion rate for CO and hydrocarbons (HCs) at high temperature range. The soot loadings can be balanced in the D-DPF system for long time during real operating condition for harvesters’ machinery. By fuel injection upstream of D-DPF, the temperature in the middle of D-DPF can reach 600 °C to actively regenerate the DPF. This type of design of D-DPF is proved to be a very cost-effective solution for NRMM China stage IV application with real operation condition and relevant testing data.
Impact of Driving Cycles on the Range Performance of Battery Electric Vehicle
Authors: Jagtap Amol Shivaji
Published: April 2024

When compared to traditional cars with internal combustion engines (ICEs), electric vehicles (EVs) are seen as a more environmentally friendly option. However, the widespread acceptance of EVs in India faces several obstacles, including the high cost of the technology, inadequate charging infrastructure, and limited driving range. Additionally, potential customers are concerned about the actual range of EVs, which often falls short of the certified range. The certified range is determined based on a standardized driving cycle so selecting the appropriate driving cycle for range estimation is of utmost importance. In India, the modified Indian drive cycle (MIDC) has been implemented, which is comparable to the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). Modified Indian Driving Cycle (MIDC) consists of four Urban Driving Cycles (Part I) and one Extra Urban Driving Cycle (Part II), however range measured with Part-I of the modified Indian driving cycle is considered as the approved/certified value of the electric vehicle's range.

The objective of this research is to analyze the influence of standard driving cycles, namely NEDC, MIDC (Part I), and WLTC (World harmonized Light-duty vehicles Test Cycle), on the range of electric vehicles (EVs). A 1D- Vehicle simulation model has been developed to investigate the impact of these driving cycles on the range of EVs. The vehicle model is evaluated against published energy consumption values, which show a reasonable level of accuracy with an error range of 1.8% to 7.3% between simulation and experimental results for auxiliary loads of 150W to 250W on MIDC Part I cycle. The simulation findings have confirmed that the choice of driving cycle significantly affects the range of EVs. It has been observed that MIDC (Part I) is not suitable for Indian driving conditions. Therefore, it is recommended that India adopt the WLTC or an equivalent driving cycle to accurately determine the range of EVs. This will help bridge the gap between the certified range and the actual range of EVs.
Frequency Response Method for Setting Bearing Preload: Analytical Model for Multi-Row Tapered Roller Bearings
Authors: Gruzwalski David , Mynderse James
Published: April 2024

Recently, there has been a new method for setting bearing preload on tapered roller bearings in a power transmission system. To move this new method into production, an analytical model that relates the bearing preload to the stiffness of the bearing was developed. This work develops an analytical model that links the preload on multi-row tapered roller bearings to the stiffness of the power transmission system. This study also validates the proposed analytical model by comparing it to both previous work and commercially available simulation software. The analytical model has shown that it is highly sensitive to the number of rollers in the bearing, which is discussed in this work.