Search Results (248)

In the ever-evolving world full of technologies, blockchain proves itself to be the most secure way of dealing with tampering of data. This paper proposes an innovative model for tracking employees within facilities using RFID, IoT devices and blockchain technology implemented on the Hyperledger Fabric platform. The blockchain system supports a secure and tamper-proof recording of employee movement because it keeps the data in a decentralized system. Smart contracts automate activities like control access, generate alerts and create audit trails without the need for centralized management. This implementation shows a high level of security and efficiency, making it a good approach to improve monitoring and compliance within organizations. Full article

This study investigates the leakage vortex influence on pressure pulsation characteristics within a vertical axial flow pump. Three impeller configurations with blade root clearance (δ) of 2.7–8.0 mm were designed to analyze geometric effects on internal flow dynamics. Unsteady RANS simulations predicted flow structures under multiple operating conditions (0.8–1.2Q_des). Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) extracted frequency–domain and time–frequency characteristics of pressure pulsations in critical flow regions. Key results reveal: (1) δ enlargement expands low-pressure zones within blade channels due to enhanced leakage vortices; (2) leading-edge pulsation shows 8.2–11.7% reduction in peak-to-peak amplitude and fundamental frequency magnitude with increasing δ; (3) trailing-edge response exhibits non-monotonic behavior, with maximum amplitude at δ = 5.0 mm (42.2% increase at design flow). These findings demonstrate that blade root clearance optimization requires condition-dependent thresholds to balance leakage management and pulsation control. Full article

This study addresses critical safety challenges in sustainable urban mobility by developing a probabilistic framework for lane-change risk prediction on congested expressways. Utilizing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-captured trajectory data from 784 validated lane-change events, we construct a Bayesian network model integrated with an I-CH scoring-enhanced MMHC algorithm. This approach quantifies risk probabilities while accounting for driver decision dynamics and input data uncertainties—key gaps in conventional methods like time-to-collision metrics. Validation via the Asia network paradigm demonstrates 80.5% reliability in forecasting high-risk maneuvers. Crucially, we identify two sustainability-oriented operational thresholds: (1) optimal lane-change success occurs when trailing-vehicle speeds in target lanes are maintained at 1.0–3.0 m/s (following-gap < 4.0 m) or 3.0–6.0 m/s (gap ≥ 4.0 m), and (2) insertion-angle change rates exceeding 3.0°/unit-time significantly elevate transition probability. These evidence-based parameters enable traffic management systems to proactively mitigate collision risks by 13.26% while optimizing flow continuity. By converting behavioral insights into adaptive control strategies, this research advances resilient transportation infrastructure and low-carbon mobility through congestion reduction. Full article

The intersection of sports and natural forests and green spaces represents an emerging interdisciplinary field with implications for public health, environmental science, and sustainable land management and refers to the variety of cultural ecosystem services demanded by people from ecosystems. This manuscript presents a systematic bibliometric and thematic analysis of 148 publications for the period 1993–2024 identified through Web of Science and Scopus, aiming to evaluate the current state of research on sports activities conducted in natural forest environments. Findings indicated a marked increase in scientific interest of this topic over the past two decades, with key contributions from countries such as England, Germany, China, and the United States. Researchers most frequently examined sports such as hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and orienteering for their capacity to provide physiological and psychological benefits, reduce stress, and enhance mental well-being. The literature analysis highlights ecological concerns, particularly those associated with habitat disturbance, biodiversity loss, and conflicts between recreation and conservation. Six principal research themes were identified: sports in urban forests, sports tourism, hunting and fishing, recreational sports, health benefits, and environmental impacts. Keyword and co-authorship analyses revealed a multidisciplinary knowledge base with evolving thematic focuses. In conclusion, the need for integrated approaches that incorporate ecological impact assessment, stakeholder perspectives, and adaptive forest governance to ensure sustainable recreational use of natural forest ecosystems is underlined. Full article

Recreational diving depends on healthy marine ecosystems, yet it can harm biodiversity through species displacement and habitat damage. Bombinhas, a biodiverse diving hotspot in southern Brazil, faces growing threats from human activity and climate change. This study assessed the ecological structure of Sepultura Beach (2018) for potential diving trails, comparing it with historical data from Porto Belo Island. Using visual censuses, transects, and photo-quadrats across six sampling campaigns, researchers documented 2419 organisms from five zoological groups, identifying 14 dominant species, including Haemulon aurolineatum and Diplodus argenteus. Cluster analysis revealed three ecological zones, with higher biodiversity at the site’s edges (Groups 1 and 3), but these areas also hosted endangered species like Epinephelus marginatus, complicating trail planning. A major concern was the widespread bleaching of the zoanthid Palythoa caribaeorum, a key ecosystem engineer, likely due to rising sea temperatures (+1.68 °C from 1961–2018) and declining chlorophyll-a levels post-2015. Comparisons with past data showed a 0.33 °C increase in species’ thermal preferences over 17 years, alongside lower trophic levels and greater ecological vulnerability, indicating tropicalization from the expanding Brazil Current. While Sepultura Beach’s biodiversity supports diving tourism, conservation efforts must address coral bleaching and endangered species protection. Long-term monitoring is crucial to track warming impacts, and adaptive management is needed for sustainable trail development. The study highlights the urgent need to balance ecotourism with climate resilience in subtropical marine ecosystems. Full article

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a prevalent and aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis, largely due to its high metastatic potential and resistance to conventional therapies. Recent advances in cancer biology have underscored the significance of regulated cell death pathways, including apoptosis, autophagic cell death (ACD), necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis, in modulating tumor progression and therapeutic responses. This review provides the current insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these cell death pathways and explores their therapeutic relevance in OSCC. Restoration of apoptosis using BH3 mimetics, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) receptor agonists, and p53 reactivators shows promise for sensitizing OSCC cells to treatment. Autophagy plays context-dependent roles in cancer, acting as a tumor suppressor during early carcinogenesis by maintaining cellular homeostasis, and as a tumor promoter in established tumors by supporting cancer cell survival under stress. Targeting necroptosis and pyroptosis has emerged as a novel strategy for inducing cancer cell death, with compounds such as acetylshikonin and okanin demonstrating antitumor effects. Additionally, the induction of ferroptosis via lipid peroxidation and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) inhibition offers a promising avenue for overcoming drug resistance, with agents such as quercetin and trifluoperazine exhibiting preclinical success. Integration of these therapeutic approaches may enhance the OSCC treatment efficacy, reduce chemoresistance, and provide novel prognostic biomarkers for clinical management. Future studies should focus on optimizing combinatorial strategies that effectively leverage these pathways to improve OSCC patient outcomes. Full article

Modern industrial ecosystems, particularly those embracing Industry 4.0, increasingly depend on coherent optical networks operating at 400 Gbps and beyond. These high-capacity infrastructures, coupled with advanced digital signal processing and phase-sensitive detection, enable real-time data exchange for automated manufacturing, robotics, and interconnected factory systems. However, they introduce multilayer security challenges—ranging from hardware synchronization gaps to protocol overhead manipulation. Moreover, the rise of large-scale quantum computing intensifies these threats by potentially breaking classical key exchange protocols and enabling the future decryption of stored ciphertext. In this paper, we present a systematic vulnerability analysis of coherent optical networks that use OTU4 framing, Media Access Control Security (MACsec), and 400G ZR+ transceivers. Guided by established risk assessment methodologies, we uncover critical weaknesses affecting management plane interfaces (e.g., MDIO and I²C) and overhead fields (e.g., Trail Trace Identifier, Bit Interleaved Parity). To mitigate these risks while preserving the robust data throughput and low-latency demands of industrial automation, we propose a post-quantum security framework that merges spectral phase masking with multi-homodyne coherent detection, strengthened by quantum key distribution for key management. This layered approach maintains backward compatibility with existing infrastructure and ensures forward secrecy against quantum-enabled adversaries. The evaluation results show a substantial reduction in exposure to timing-based exploits, overhead field abuses, and cryptographic compromise. By integrating quantum-safe measures at the optical layer, our solution provides a future-proof roadmap for network operators, hardware vendors, and Industry 4.0 stakeholders tasked with safeguarding next-generation manufacturing and engineering processes. Full article

The contribution of small-scale sporting events to tourism sustainable development in local communities has been well recognized in the literature. Small-scale running events in particular are essential in the promotion of sustainable tourism in the community due to their localized impact. Although research has largely focused on the demand side—including participants, spectators, and host communities—limited attention has been given to the supply side, particularly the perspectives of sport event organizers and their role in implementing sustainable practices. This study aims to address this gap and answer key research questions that concern the factors which contribute to the success of these events in relation to their economic, social, and environmental impacts through the lens of the events’ primary decision-makers, their organizers. This study employs an exploratory research method, conducting interviews with twenty-five organizers of diverse Greek running events that represent a variety of geographical contexts and event characteristics of the country, based on their long-standing presence. Findings contribute to sustainable sport tourism literature by developing a theoretical framework which encompasses the three dimensions of sustainability, highlighting inclusivity as a key component within the social dimension. Results indicate that organizers perceive their running events as having a positive economic impact and enhancing social cohesion. They are also aware of the potential environmental impact, like trail preservation, and consequently implement responsible measures to protect the environment. Organizers share a variety of specific strategies and practical suggestions aimed at improving the sustainability of running events, such as managing waste effectively or improving accessibility for diverse participants, offering transferable insights for other event planners and local authorities. This paper showcases the key role of organizers in developing partnerships to implement effective sustainable sport event practices in the destination. Full article

This paper presents an integrated Smart City platform that combines digital twin technology, advanced machine learning, and a private blockchain network to enhance data-driven decision making and operational efficiency in both public enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The proposed cloud-based business intelligence model automates Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) processes, enables real-time analytics, and secures data integrity and transparency through blockchain-enabled audit trails. By implementing the proposed solution, Smart City and public service providers can significantly improve operational efficiency, including a 15% reduction in costs and a 12% decrease in fuel consumption for waste management, as well as increased citizen engagement and transparency in Smart City governance. The digital twin component facilitated scenario simulations and proactive resource management, while the participatory governance module empowered citizens through transparent, immutable records of proposals and voting. This study also discusses technical, organizational, and regulatory challenges, such as data integration, scalability, and privacy compliance. The results indicate that the proposed approach offers a scalable and sustainable model for Smart City transformation, fostering citizen trust, regulatory compliance, and measurable environmental and social benefits. Full article

The blue-eared pheasant (Crossoptilon auritum), a Near Threatened (NT) species endemic to China, is primarily distributed across the northeastern region of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau. To bridge the fine-scale spatiotemporal gap in blue-eared pheasant behavioral ecology, this study combines satellite telemetry, movement modeling, and field-based habitat assessments (vegetation, topography, human disturbance). This multidisciplinary approach reveals detailed patterns of their behavior throughout the breeding season. Using satellite-tracking data from six individuals (five males tracked at 4 h intervals; one female tracked hourly) in Wanglang National Nature Reserve (WLNNR), Sichuan Province during breeding seasons 2018–2019, we quantified their home ranges via Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) and examined the female movement patterns using a Hidden Markov Model (HMM). The results indicated male core (50% KDE: 21.93 ± 16.54 ha) and total (95% KDE: 158.30 ± 109.30 ha) home ranges, with spatial overlap among individuals but no significant temporal variation in home range size. Habitat selection analysis indicated that the blue-eared pheasants favored shrub-dominated areas at higher elevations (steep southeast-facing slopes), regions distant from human disturbance, and with abundant animal trails. We found that their movement patterns differed between sexes: the males exhibited higher daytime activity yet slower movement speeds, while the female remained predominantly near nests, making brief excursions before returning promptly. These results enhance our understanding of the movement ecology of blue-eared pheasants by revealing fine-scale breeding-season behaviors and habitat preferences through satellite-tracking. Such detailed insights provide an essential foundation for developing targeted conservation strategies, particularly regarding effective habitat management and zoning of human activities within the species’ range. Full article

Predicting forest trail visitation is essential for sustainable management and policy development, including infrastructure planning, safety operations, and conservation. However, due to numerous informal access points and complex external influences, accurately monitoring visitor numbers remains challenging. This study applied random forest, gradient boosting, and LightGBM models with Bayesian optimization to predict daily visitor counts across six sections of the National Daegwallyeong Forest Trail, incorporating variables such as weather conditions, social media activity, COVID-19 case counts, tollgate traffic volume, and local festivals. SHAP analysis revealed that tollgate traffic volume and weekends consistently increased visitation across all sections. The impact of temperature varied by section: higher temperatures increased visitation in Kukmin Forest, whereas lower temperatures were associated with higher visitation at Seonjaryeong Peak. COVID-19 cases demonstrated negative effects across all sections. By integrating diverse variables and conducting section-level analysis, this study identified detailed visitation patterns and provided a practical basis for adaptive, section- and season-specific management strategies. These findings support flexible measures such as seasonal staffing, congestion mitigation, and real-time response systems and contribute to the advancement of data-driven regional tourism management frameworks in the context of evolving nature-based tourism demand. Full article

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of varying traffic intensities, the time since harvesting, and the interaction between these two factors on the restoration of herbaceous cover on skid trails in the Hyrcanian forests, Northern Iran. Three compartments were selected from two districts within the pure oriental beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) stands of Kheyrud Forest, where ground-based timber extraction had occurred 5, 10, and 15 years prior. In each compartment, three skid trails representing low, medium, and high traffic intensities were identified. Control plots were established 10 m away from the trails. A total of 54 systematically selected 1 m × 1 m sample plots were surveyed: 27 on skid trails (three traffic intensities × three time intervals × three replicates) and 27 control plots (matching the same variables). Within each quadrat, all herbaceous plants were counted, identified, and recorded. Our findings revealed that only traffic intensity had a clear significant impact on plant abundance. High traffic intensity led to a pronounced decline in herbaceous cover, with disturbed skid trails showing reduced species diversity or the complete disappearance of certain species in comparison to the control plots. Time since harvesting and its interaction with traffic intensity did not yield statistically significant effects. Disturbance led to a reduction in the quantities of certain species or even their disappearance on skid trails in comparison to the control plots. Given the pivotal role of machinery traffic intensity in determining mitigation strategies, there is a critical need for research on region-specific harvesting techniques and the development of adaptive management strategies that minimize ecological impacts by aligning practices with varying levels of traffic intensity. Full article

Effective trail management is essential for preventing environmental degradation and promoting sustainable recreational use. This study proposes a GIS-based, explainable machine learning framework for predicting forest trail degradation using exclusively environmental variables, eliminating the need for costly visitor monitoring data that remains unavailable in most operational forest settings. Field surveys conducted in Geumjeongsan, South Korea, classified trail segments as degraded or non-degraded based on physical indicators such as erosion depth, trail width, and soil hardness. Environmental predictors—including elevation, slope, trail slope alignment (TSA), topographic wetness index (TWI), vegetation type, and soil texture—were derived from spatial analysis. Three machine learning algorithms (Binary Logistic Regression, Random Forest, and Gradient Boosting) were systematically compared using confusion matrix metrics and AUC-ROC (Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve). Random Forest (RF) was selected for its strong performance (AUC-ROC = 0.812) and seamless integration with SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) for transparent interpretation. Spatial block cross-validation achieved an AUC-ROC of 0.729, confirming robust spatial generalization. SHAP analysis revealed vegetation type as the most significant predictor, with hardwood forests showing higher degradation susceptibility than mixed forests. A susceptibility map generated from the RF model indicated that 40.7% of the study area faces high to very high degradation risk. This environmental-only approach enables proactive trail management across data-limited forest systems globally, providing actionable insights for sustainable trail maintenance without requiring visitor use data. Full article

Accelerating the recovery of compacted soils caused by logging machinery using bioengineering techniques is a key goal of Sustainable Forest Management. This research was conducted on an abandoned skid trail with a uniform 15% slope and a history of heavy traffic, located in the Nav forest compartment of northern Iran. The main objectives were to assess (a) soil physical properties 35 years after skidding by a tracked bulldozer, (b) the impact of natural alder regeneration on soil recovery, and (c) the contribution of alder fine-root development to the restoration of compacted soils in beech stands. Soil physical properties and fine root biomass were analyzed across three depth classes (0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, 20–30 cm) and five locations (left wheel track (LT), between wheel tracks (BT), right wheel track (RT)) all with alder trees, and additionally control points inside the trail without alder trees (CPWA), as well as outside control points with alder trees (CPA). Sampling points near alder trees (RT, LT, BT) were compared to CPWA and CPA. CPA had the lowest soil bulk density, followed by LT, BT, RT, and CPWA. Bulk density was highest (1.35 ± 0.07 g cm⁻³) at the 0–10 cm depth and lowest (1.08 ± 0.4 g cm⁻³) at 20–30 cm. The fine root biomass at 0–10 cm depth (0.23 ± 0.21 g dm⁻³) was significantly higher than at deeper levels. Skid trail sampling points showed higher fine root biomass than CPWA but lower than CPA, by several orders of magnitude. Alder tree growth significantly reduced soil bulk density, aiding soil recovery in the study area. However, achieving optimal conditions will require additional time. Full article

In recent decades, the use of off-road vehicles (ORVs) for challenging outdoor trips has increased significantly worldwide, impacting soil, vegetation, and wildlife. This study was conducted in Sde Zin, Israel, a hyper-arid desert zone. The area has a high concentration of trails created unintentionally over the years by ORVs. The study sought to examine whether the degraded trails will be restored naturally or if there is a need for active intervention. Five ORV trails were selected, with a plot of 40 × 15 m in each trail, comprising three subplot treatments: one session of disk tillage, no tillage, and an adjacent control subplot. Soil and vegetation parameters were measured for two consecutive years. The results indicated that the measured soil parameters did not differ between treatments except for the degree of soil compaction, which was a significant factor in plant survival and restoration. The highest H′ Shannon diversity was found in the disk-tillage treatment, where the plant assemblage differed from that of the non-tillage and control subplots. The conclusion derived from this study is that active management to prevent soil compaction is needed in severely degraded desert areas to stimulate soil and vegetation restoration processes. Full article