bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decision-Making during the Pandemic: Compassion, Trust, and the Altruistic Paradox
Authors: Myerson Joel , Strube Michael J. , Green Leonard , Hale Sandra , Bernstein Bridget
Published: May 2023

The occurrence of breakthrough infections with SARS-CoV-2 in vaccinated individuals argues against abandoning mitigation efforts such as social distancing. Some public health messages, however, promote vaccination by increasing psychological distress, which interferes with social distancing. Prosocial messages present an alternative approach that may avoid this problem. Accordingly, the present study examined the relation of pandemic mitigation with scores on prosocial personality traits (i.e., altruism, sympathy, and trust) and vaccination intentions. Regression analyses indicated that while vaccination intentions increased significantly with an increase in trust, distancing increased significantly with increases in altruism and sympathy. Because older adults are much more vulnerable to COVID-19 than younger adults, these findings reveal an altruistic paradox, in which older adults, perhaps the most altruistic portion of the population, may be dependent on the altruistic behavior of younger adults, who may be the least altruistic portion. The challenge for public health messaging will be to motivate younger adults to take the consequences of their mitigation decisions for others into account.
Corrosion Performance of Commercial Alloys and Refractory Metals in Conditions for Electrorefining of Spent Nuclear Fuels
Authors: Jia Yanhong , Chang Shuangshuang , Du Xin , Guo Shaoqiang
Published: May 2023

Molten LiCl-KCl salt and liquid cadmium are proposed as the electrolyte and the reactive cathode for the electrorefining of spent nuclear fuels, but they can be corrosive to the structural alloys. The down-selection of existing materials through corrosion testing is necessary to ensure the longevity of the electrorefiner vessel and electrode assemblies. Haynes C276, Inconel 600, AISI 316L stainless steel, and 42CrMo low-alloy steel were exposed to a LiCl-KCl melt at 500 °C for 500 h in an argon atmosphere. All alloys suffered from dissolution attacks with the presence of oxide islands or a porous oxide layer on the surface. AISI 316L, T91 steel, and tungsten specimens were submitted to corrosion tests in liquid cadmium at 500 °C for 120 h. The corrosion of AISI 316L and T91 stainless steel was predominated by chemical oxidation, with the additional occurrence of severe Ni dealloying and Cd penetration on AISI 316L. Destabilization of the Cr oxide layer by cadmium was discovered, resulting in the formation of CdCrO4. Tungsten only suffered from a dissolution attack at a rate of 0.50 mm/a.
DNA vs. Morphology in Delineating Species Boundaries of Endemic Mongolian Eodorcadion Taxa (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)
Authors: Karpiński Lech , Gorring Patrick , Cognato Anthony I.
Published: May 2023

This paper provides the first DNA sequences and phylogenetic insight into the Central Asian genus Eodorcadion. We used four molecular markers (COI, CAD, ITS2, and Histone 3) and investigated COI genetic distances to verify phylogenetic position of closely related taxa endemic to Mongolia of the ‘Eodorcadion intermedium species-group’. Histone3 data are presented for the first time for Cerambycidae species. We also designed new PCR primers for better amplification of the Cerambycidae COI barcode region. Morphology of all targeted taxa was examined by means of scanning electron microscopy. Our study showed that while there were very few nucleotide differences among COI sequences of three closely related taxa, such that they shared one haplotype, two of them were grouped separately in the all-data tree, and all three were morphologically distinguishable. Conversely, there was a clear barcode gap between E. intermedium intermedium and all the remaining taxa, including E. intermedium kozlovi. Based on the phylogeny, they belong to two different species-groups; thus, E. kozlovi is herein restored to specific rank. Using Bayesian analysis, we contrasted the COI-based tree with the one supported by nuclear data and showed that COI-only data are not sufficient to resolve the phylogeny of the recently derived flightless groups such as Dorcadionini. We conclude that the Eodorcadion intermedium species-group is a polyphyletic species assemblage, established based on the pattern of the elytral stripes, which may be a case of parallel evolution driven by ecological adaptation.
A Set of Geophysical Fields for Modeling of the Lithosphere Structure and Dynamics in the Russian Arctic Zone
Authors: Soloviev Anatoly , Petrunin Alexey , Gvozdik Sofia , Sidorov Roman
Published: May 2023

This paper presents a set of various geological and geophysical data for the Arctic zone, including some detailed models for the eastern part of the Russian Arctic zone. This hard-to-access territory has a complex geological structure, which is poorly studied by direct geophysical methods. Therefore, these data can be used in an integrative analysis for different purposes. These are the gravity field, heat flow, and various seismic tomography models. The gravity field data include several reductions calculated during our preceding studies, which are more appropriate for the study of the Earth’s interiors than the initial free air anomalies. Specifically, these are the Bouguer, isostatic, and decompensative gravity anomalies. A surface heat flow map included in the dataset is based on a joint inversion of multiple geophysical data constrained by the observations from the International Heat Flow Commission catalog. Available seismic tomography models were analyzed to select the best one for further investigation. We provide the models for the sedimentary cover and the Moho depth, which are significantly improved compared to the existing ones. The database provides a basis for qualitative and quantitative analysis of the region.
Predicting Extrathyroidal Extension in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Using a Clinical-Radiomics Nomogram Based on B-Mode and Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound
Authors: Jiang Liqing , Guo Shiyan , Zhao Yongfeng , Cheng Zhe , Zhong Xinyu , Zhou Ping
Published: May 2023

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common pathological type of thyroid cancer. PTC patients with extrathyroidal extension (ETE) are associated with poor prognoses. The preoperative accurate prediction of ETE is crucial for helping the surgeon decide on the surgical plan. This study aimed to establish a novel clinical-radiomics nomogram based on B-mode ultrasound (BMUS) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for the prediction of ETE in PTC. A total of 216 patients with PTC between January 2018 and June 2020 were collected and divided into the training set (n = 152) and the validation set (n = 64). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm was applied for radiomics feature selection. Univariate analysis was performed to find clinical risk factors for predicting ETE. The BMUS Radscore, CEUS Radscore, clinical model, and clinical-radiomics model were established using multivariate backward stepwise logistic regression (LR) based on BMUS radiomics features, CEUS radiomics features, clinical risk factors, and the combination of those features, respectively. The diagnostic efficacy of the models was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the DeLong test. The model with the best performance was then selected to develop a nomogram. The results show that the clinical-radiomics model, which is constructed by age, CEUS-reported ETE, BMUS Radscore, and CEUS Radscore, showed the best diagnostic efficiency in both the training set (AUC = 0.843) and validation set (AUC = 0.792). Moreover, a clinical-radiomics nomogram was established for easier clinical practices. The Hosmer–Lemeshow test and the calibration curves demonstrated satisfactory calibration. The decision curve analysis (DCA) showed that the clinical-radiomics nomogram had substantial clinical benefits. The clinical-radiomics nomogram constructed from the dual-modal ultrasound can be exploited as a promising tool for the pre-operative prediction of ETE in PTC.
Embracing Co-Design: A Case Study Examining How Community Partners Became Co-Creators
Authors: Murdock Liam , Osgood Libby (Elizabeth) , McCarvill Luke
Published: May 2023

Co-design increases the number of voices in a design project, which enhances the experience for all co-creators and produces a better product. A case study is presented of a ten-month co-design project-based learning experience between two engineering design students and two community partners during a first-year engineering design course, which resulted in the implementation of the device across campus. This paper evaluates the elements of co-design in the design process that was employed, documents the design product that was produced, and examines the experience of the community partners through a qualitative study. Through a retrospective examination of artifacts and files, the design process demonstrated an increase in the amount of collaboration between co-creators as the project progressed and identified 15 iterations of the design. Comparing the experience of community partners throughout the design process, five themes emerged from the semi-structured interviews: (1) emotional effects, (2) physical and mental effects, (3) productivity, (4) safety, and (5) job satisfaction. Documenting the experience of community partners throughout the design project can encourage educators to adopt co-design practices in project-based learning.
Epistemic Discourses and Conceptual Coherence in Students’ Explanatory Models: The Case of Ocean Acidification and Its Impacts on Oysters
Authors: Sezen-Barrie Asli , Stapleton Mary K. , Marbach-Ad Gili , Miller-Rushing Anica
Published: May 2023

Engaging students in epistemic and conceptual aspects of modeling practices is crucial for phenomena-based learning in science classrooms. However, many students and teachers still struggle to actualize the reformed vision of the modeling practice in their classrooms. Through a discourse analysis of 150 students’ explanatory models (as social semiotic spaces) from 14 classes, we propose a qualitative framework that investigates conceptual coherence and epistemic discourses to achieve a gapless explanation of scientific phenomena. Our framework draws attention to four critical components of students’ explanatory models: (a) key ideas based on evidence, (b) the discourse modalities of how evidence is presented, (c) scientific representations from the cultures of scientific disciplines, (d) systems thinking approaches directly and indirectly related to oceans and marine ecosystems. Our results indicate that students struggled to construct cohesive explanatory models that communicated all key ideas and the relationships among them, with the majority of student-developed models in our study categorized as ‘insufficiently’ cohesive (lacking key ideas and the relationships among them), and only a small percentage of the models considered ‘extensively’ cohesive (all key ideas attended to, as well as the relationships among them).
Agon—Are Military Officers Educated for Modern Society?
Authors: Magnussen Leif Inge , Boe Ole , Torgersen Glenn-Egil
Published: May 2023

The research question in this article concerns how a competitive environment affects the learner’s (officer cadet’s) personal leadership development and their relationship to their team and with future civilian foundations. More specifically, what are the possible learning effects of the ‘hidden’ curriculum? This article investigates how more than 250 years of leadership education provides new army officers with new skills and how this environment may affect the cadets’ leadership training. The article builds on ethnographic data gathered during the three-year education programme in most of the relevant practical locations and contexts. Data were collected using both interviews and a questionnaire. Regarding trust in their learning environment, cadets reported a mean score of 2.83 on a 1 (low trust) to 5 (high trust) Likert scale, underpinning interview data regarding the lack of trust in the Norwegian Military Academy (NMA) and in their fellow cadets. Cadets also pointed out that competition hindered their learning (mean = 2.50). These findings are interpreted in relation to possible negative effects stemming from internal competition and the evaluation system as a whole. The overall output of this system is a zero-sum game, and thus affects evaluative practices and learning processes. This study is of relevance to higher education officers responsible for designing learning environments.
Compact Design Method for Planar Antennas with Defected Ground Structures
Authors: Lee Won Jun , Yoon Won-Sang , Ahn Dal , Han Sang-Min
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a compact antenna design method is proposed for microstrip patch antennas using a double-layered defected ground structure (DGS) configuration. While a conventional single-layered defected ground structure yields a lower resonant frequency and Q-factor, a smaller circuit size can be achieved using an additional substrate with a higher dielectric constant. The size reduction obtained from the additional resonant LC elements is analytically explained using the equivalent circuit model. The characteristics of the additional substrates are investigated for various dielectric constants and thicknesses. From the experimental results, the proposed design method leads to a total size reduction of up to 51.7% and a miniaturized design for planar antennas with ground apertures. The proposed design method can be applied to various antenna designs with any DGS pattern. Furthermore, the size reduction method can maintain the structure of the resonant patch element and its radiation characteristics. Therefore, the proposed method is applicable to the design of microwave devices on microstrip-based configurations.
Beampattern Synthesis and Optimization for Frequency Diverse Arc Array Based on the Virtual Element
Authors: Xu Wei , Deng Zhuo , Huang Pingping , Tan Weixian , Gao Zhiqi
Published: May 2023

With its special, arch-shaped array structure, a frequency diverse arc array (FDAA) can perform beam scanning in 360 degrees in azimuth and in arbitrary ranges by selectively activating array elements in different positions, utilizing array element phase compensation, and adopting a frequency offset design. In this paper, a beampattern synthesis and optimization method for FDDA using the virtual array element based on the geometric configuration of FDDA is proposed. First, the position of the virtual array element is determined by the direction of the target, and then activated array elements are selected. Afterwards, the frequency offset of each array element is set up on the equiphase surface to obtain the dot-shaped beampattern. Finally, amplitude weighting is introduced to suppress the increased sidelobe level of the dot-shaped beampattern, which is caused by inverse density weighting of the arch-shaped array structure. Simulation results validate the proposed method for beampattern synthesis and optimization in FDAA.
Customized 2D CNN Model for the Automatic Emotion Recognition Based on EEG Signals
Authors: Baradaran Farzad , Farzan Ali , Danishvar Sebelan , Sheykhivand Sobhan
Published: May 2023

Automatic emotion recognition from electroencephalogram (EEG) signals can be considered as the main component of brain–computer interface (BCI) systems. In the previous years, many researchers in this direction have presented various algorithms for the automatic classification of emotions from EEG signals, and they have achieved promising results; however, lack of stability, high error, and low accuracy are still considered as the central gaps in this research. For this purpose, obtaining a model with the precondition of stability, high accuracy, and low error is considered essential for the automatic classification of emotions. In this research, a model based on Deep Convolutional Neural Networks (DCNNs) is presented, which can classify three positive, negative, and neutral emotions from EEG signals based on musical stimuli with high reliability. For this purpose, a comprehensive database of EEG signals has been collected while volunteers were listening to positive and negative music in order to stimulate the emotional state. The architecture of the proposed model consists of a combination of six convolutional layers and two fully connected layers. In this research, different feature learning and hand-crafted feature selection/extraction algorithms were investigated and compared with each other in order to classify emotions. The proposed model for the classification of two classes (positive and negative) and three classes (positive, neutral, and negative) of emotions had 98% and 96% accuracy, respectively, which is very promising compared with the results of previous research. In order to evaluate more fully, the proposed model was also investigated in noisy environments; with a wide range of different SNRs, the classification accuracy was still greater than 90%. Due to the high performance of the proposed model, it can be used in brain–computer user environments.
A Pre-Synchronization Method for Parallel VSGs of Distributed Microgrid Based on Control Mode Switching
Authors: Dong Kunyu , Jia Jiaoxin
Published: May 2023

For the pre-synchronization method of the virtual synchronous generator (VSG), only the case of a single VSG pre-synchronization and grid connection has been studied and analyzed. If the phase synchronization of multiparallel VSGs in a decentralized microgrid is realized by controlling a VSG, power circulation exists in the pre-synchronization process. Firstly, the structure and control mode of the microgrid are introduced. For the decentralized structure, a control mode switching mechanism under distributed communication is designed, and a pre-synchronization method of parallel VSGs based on control mode switching is proposed. Secondly, a theoretical analysis of the active power circulation problem is performed by an equivalent frequency model for parallel VSGs in the pre-synchronization process. Finally, the simulation results show that the proposed pre-synchronization method can reduce the dynamic power circulation of parallel VSGs by 83%, and improve the pre-synchronization speed by 75%.
Stochastic Programming Model Integrating Pyrolysis Byproducts in the Design of Bioenergy Supply Chains
Authors: Keith Kolton , Castillo-Villar Krystel K.
Published: May 2023

Biomass is an abundant resource for energy production and it has gained attention as a mainstream option to meet increasing energy demands. Pyrolysis has been one of the most prevalent thermochemical processes for biomass conversion. In the pyrolysis process, the biomass decomposes into three byproducts: bio-oil (60–75%), biochar (15–25%), and syngas (10–20%), depending on the feedstock and its composition. The energy required to convert the biomass varies depending on the levels of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. This work proposes a novel two-stage stochastic model that designs an efficient biomass supply chain mindful of the trade-offs between pyrolysis byproducts (bioethanol and biochar). Remarkably, the model integrates biomass quality-related costs associated with moisture and ash content such as the energy consumption of preprocessing equipment and boiler maintenance due to excess ash. Biomass quality directly affects the production yield as well as the total cost of production and distribution. The results from our case study indicate a shortage of biomass from the suppliers to fulfill the demand for biochar from the power plants and bioethanol from the cities. Furthermore, the bioethanol price has the most impact on the total supply chain according to our sensitivity analysis.
Improving the Efficiency of the Shunt Active Power Filter Acting with the Use of the Hysteresis Current Control Technique
Authors: Szromba Andrzej
Published: May 2023

Calculation of the reference waveform for the compensating current generated by the shunt active power filter (ShAPF) can be carried out using various methods. In this article, this calculation is performed indirectly on the basis of tracking and processing of the ShAPF DC-link capacitor voltage. At the same time, the energy stored in this capacitor is used to generate the compensating current. Therefore, the operation of this capacitor during compensation, i.e., changes in energy stored in it and the voltage waveform on its terminals, is characteristic and crucial for the method considered. Once the current reference waveform is determined, it can be generated by ShAPF in various ways, but always using the energy stored in the DC-link capacitor. The power module of the active filter uses transistor switches to realize the required compensating current. During their operation, power losses occur that can be divided into either switching or conduction. The article shows that, in the case of the indirect control method and the hysteresis current control technique used, it is possible to reduce the operating frequency of the switches and the load on the DC-link capacitor. Thanks to this, it is possible to reduce power losses in these elements and extend their lifetime.
Microgrid Energy Management for Smart City Planning on Saint Martin’s Island in Bangladesh
Authors: Asaduz-Zaman Md. , Ongsakul Weerakorn , Hossain M. J.
Published: May 2023

An enormous number of domestic and international tourists visit Saint Martin’s Island in Bangladesh annually. Unfortunately, the lack of proper planning as well as severe electricity shortages are hampering its development towards a smart city. This study proposes a smart city model for the remote area with a grid-independent microgrid to meet the rising load demand. It demonstrates that implementation of the Internet of things can effectively utilize the resources of Saint Martin following the smart city criteria. The distributed energy resources have been optimized to identify the best microgrid configuration that complies with Sustainable Development Goal 7. Finally, nonlinear simulations are carried out to compare the stability of the proposed systems. The study outlines the benefits of employing eco wave power and second-life batteries, as well as the advantages of using a supercapacitor as a speedy responder to disturbances. The research ultimately gives the multidisciplinary knowledge to policymakers that they require to transform a small island like Saint Martin into a tourist-intensive smart city.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Multifaceted Applications in One Health and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Ballet Nathalie , Renaud Sarah , Roume Hugo , George Fanny , Vandekerckove Pascal , Boyer Mickaël , Durand-Dubief Mickaël
Published: May 2023

Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC), a yeast with an extensive history in food and beverage fermentations, is increasingly acknowledged for its multifaceted application in promoting and benefiting all aspects of a ‘One Health’ approach, including the prevention and control of zoonoses. For instance, SC contributes to environmentally sustainable agricultural practices through the reduced use of toxic agents, thus minimizing air and soil pollution while enhancing crop quality. Additionally, this versatile yeast can improve the health of domestic and farm animals, leading to more efficient and sustainable food production, while fostering synergistic impacts across environmental, animal, and human health spheres. Moreover, SC directly applies benefits to human health by promoting improved nutrition, improving gut health through probiotics, as an alternative to antibiotics, and treating gastric disorders. By aligning with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), SC is vital in advancing global health and well-being, environmental sustainability, and responsible consumption and production. This entry illustrates the numerous benefits of SC and highlights its significant impact on a global ‘One Health’ scale, promoting the achievement of SDGs through its unique characteristics and deeper understanding of its contribution to the One Health concept.
Brazilian Urban Policy: Sustainability as a Driving Force
Authors: Dias Felipe Teixeira , Leite Marcos Esdras , Cembranel Priscila , de Andrade Guerra José Baltazar S. O. , Birch Robert S.
Published: May 2023

Defining global themes such as Urban Policy, Urban Sustainability, and even the Right to the City (RTTC) is fundamental to stimulating and establishing a continuous dialogue with the scientific community, mainly in the social sciences. Thus, understanding the dynamics around the scope of urban sustainability requires an analysis that is focused on multiple global realities. Taking a holistic view of Brazilian Urban Policy, this entry looks at the historical contexts that make urban sustainability the driving force behind this policy. In addition, an interdisciplinary consideration of urban sustainability is proposed using an analysis that is based on the connection between urban policies and social functions that reflect the idea of a sustainable city. The results of this analysis also point to the need for a continuous debate on the subject that primarily promotes new discoveries; this is so that the driving force of urban policy can gain new meanings and new guidelines can be implemented.
Effect of Preservation Temperature and Time on Fermentation Characteristics, Bacterial Diversity and Community Composition of Rumen Fluid Collected from High-Grain Feeding Sheep
Authors: Qiu Qinghua , Long Tanghui , Ouyang Kehan , Lei Xiaowen , Qiu Jingyun , Zhang Jian , Li Yanjiao , Zhao Xianghui , Qu Mingren , Ouyang Kehui
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to explore the dynamic variations in fermentation characteristics, bacterial diversity and community composition at two preservation temperatures as preservation time extended. Six rumen fluid samples collected from high-grain feeding sheep were stored at −20 °C or −80 °C for 0 day, 7 days, 14 days, 30 days, 60 days, 120 days, and 240 days. The results showed that the current preservation temperature did not alter the fermentation characteristics, bacterial diversity and community composition (p > 0.05). The concentrations of ammonia, microbial crude protein, acetate, propionate, butyrate, valerate, and total volatile fatty acids were higher when stored at 60 days (p < 0.05). Preservation time had no influence on bacterial richness and evenness (p > 0.05), whilst the relative abundances of Bacteroidota and Prevotella were numerically higher when stored at 30 days, and the opposite results were observed regarding Firmicutes. Both principal co-ordinates analysis (PCoA) and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) showed clusters among treatments in terms of preservation time and preservation temperature. Analysis of similarities (ANOSIM) also revealed similarities between treatments (p > 0.05). This study indicates that most fermentation characteristics in rumen fluid were altered after a 60-day preservation, whilst the preservation time for rumen bacterial community profile alteration was 30 days. It is recommended to finish the sample determination of rumen fluid within 30 days. This study may assist decision-making regarding the practicable time for rumen fluid determination, as well as viable preservation conditions for inoculum used for in vitro fermentation testing.
Calm Hu Sheep Have a Different Microbiome Profile and Higher Energy Utilization Efficiency Than Nervous Hu Sheep
Authors: Wu Feifan , Ding Luoyang , Wang Jiasheng , Chen Qiaoqing , Thapa Asmita , Mao Jianyu , Wang Mengzhi
Published: May 2023

In sheep, temperament is known to affect animal welfare and the quality of animal products. While the composition of the gut microbiota is different between depressed patients and healthy human patients, in sheep, the influence of temperament on ruminal microbial species and abundance remains unknown. This study investigated the effects of temperament on parameters of rumen fermentation and microbial composition of rumen contents of Hu ram lambs. Using the pen score test, 6 lambs that scored 2 points or below (calm) and 6 lambs that scored 4 points or more (nervous) were selected from 100 ram lambs. The sheep were fed a standard diet for 60 days and rumen samples were collected at slaughter. The concentrations of propionic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, and the ammonia nitrogen concentration were different between the calm and the nervous groups (p < 0.05). At the phylum level, there were significant differences in Bacteroidetes, Tenericutes, and Spirochetes (p < 0.05); and at the genus level, there were significant differences in the Christensenellaceae R-7 group, Treponema 2, Fibrobacter, and Ruminococcaceae UCG-003 (p < 0.05). The present study suggests that differences in the rumen microbiota between the calm group and the nervous group could have an impact on the metabolism of carbohydrates and polysaccharides and explain why Calm Hu sheep have a higher energy utilization efficiency than nervous Hu sheep. More studies are needed to further understand the effect of temperament on specific pathways of the rumen microbiota.
Microbial Composition, Bioactive Compounds, Potential Benefits and Risks Associated with Kombucha: A Concise Review
Authors: Ojo Abidemi Oluranti , de Smidt Olga
Published: May 2023

Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage containing bioactive compounds from tea and vital compounds such as acetic acid, D-saccharic acid-1,4-lactone, and glucuronic and gluconic acids produced from the metabolic activities of bacteria and yeasts, which benefit human health. Kombucha contains a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), which actively ferments sugar. Kombucha microbial compositions vary due to environmental conditions and the starter culture. Saccharomyces sp., Schizosaccharomyces pombe, Schizosaccharomyces sp., and Brettanomyces sp. (yeasts) and Acetobacter aceti, Komagataeibacter xylinum (formerly known as Gluconacetobacter xylinum), Gluconobacter oxydans, and Acetobacter pasteurianus (acetic acid-producing bacteria) are commonly found in kombucha. This review focused on the microbial compositions of kombucha and their functionality. Aspects discussed include: (i). developments in kombucha, (ii). microbial compositions of kombucha, (ii). microbial production of kombucha cellulose, (iv). factors influencing kombucha microbial compositions, (v). tea type and kombucha bioactive compounds, (vi). kombucha health benefits, and (v). potential risk factors of kombucha consumption. Current gaps, recommendations, and prospects were also discussed. Kombucha production using rooibos as the tea base is recommended, as rooibos is caffeine-free. Upcycling kombucha wastes, mainly SCOBY, for producing cellulose filters, improving food flavors and as a substrate in food fermentations is touched on.
Elementary Liber Fibres Characterisation: Bias from the Noncylindricity and Morphological Evolution along the Fibre
Authors: Grégoire Marie , De Luycker Emmanuel , Ouagne Pierre
Published: May 2023

In this work, we investigate the influence of noncircularity along with cross-sectional area evolution on the measurement of the mechanical properties of elementary fibres. First, we focus on the cross-sectional area measurement and compare the circular assumption with the elliptical one using an ombroscopic device that allows the measurement of the projected diameters along the fibre as the fibre rotates around its axis, the fibre dimensional analysis system (FDAS). The results highlight important approximations to the cross-sectional area evaluation for fibres with noncircular cross sections, leading to reduced elastic modulus and stress at failure evaluated by the standard method. Additionally, results from the FDAS are used to evaluate the twist inside an individual fibre when the cross sections are sufficiently elliptical. A numerical model based on the real measured dimensions of the fibres is developed to illustrate and visualize this nonuniformity and to more accurately identify the elastic modulus. The results obtained lead us to an analytical approach that takes into account the evolution of the cross-sectional area along the fibre for a better identification of the stiffness and modulus of elasticity, which maximizes the identified mechanical properties on average by 12% for the modulus and 200% for the stress at failure. Finally, recommendations are formulated to better account for the variability along a fibre in order to evaluate the cross-sectional area.
Specific Aspects of Modeling Gas Mixture Explosions in the Atmosphere
Authors: Komarov Alexander , Korolchenko Dmitry , Gromov Nikolay , Korolchenko Anton , Jafari Mostafa , Gravit Marina
Published: May 2023

Aspects of mathematical and physical modeling of deflagration explosions emerging during atmospheric (outdoor) accidental explosions are addressed. It has been demonstrated that when physically modeling accidental deflagration explosions, a stoichiometric mixture in the shape of a sphere or hemisphere supported by the ground should be used. This allows us to research the parameters of blast loads for the worst-case accidental scenarios or address the accident using the most conservative approach. A technique has been provided allowing one to create a mixture of a given blend composition in the shape of a sphere or hemisphere supported by the ground in outdoor conditions. It has been demonstrated that there is an ability to conduct modeling studies of accidental atmospheric explosions. We have provided examples of modeling studies of accidental atmospheric explosions; a methodology for analyzing experimental results has also been reviewed. The article discusses the mathematical modeling of outdoor (unobstructed) accidental deflagration explosions. It has been demonstrated that it is most reasonable to base computational experiments on linearized (acoustic) equations of continuum motion, as the visible flame propagation rate emerging during explosive combustion is small (compared to the speed of sound). There has been a satisfactory agreement between the numerical analysis and the experimental data.
Improved Particle Swarm Path Planning Algorithm with Multi-Factor Coupling in Forest Fire Spread Scenarios
Authors: Lin Kaiyi , Zhang Lifan , Huang Lida , Feng Zhili , Chen Tao
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a solution based on an improved particle swarm algorithm is proposed for the path planning problem without a road network in forest fire rescue scenarios. The algorithm adopts an adaptive inertia weight and a dynamically updated learning factor strategy to enhance the global and local search capabilities of the algorithm. In terms of cost function design, the article considers three factors: path length, terrain slope, and obstacle avoidance ability to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the path. The experimental results show that: (1) the path planning algorithm based on improved particle swarm optimization can effectively avoid spreading wildfire and reach the designated target point with a good “detour” effect; (2) the path planned by the improved PSO algorithm performs better than the original PSO algorithm in terms of fitness evaluation and average slope; and (3) changes in the particle population, dimensions, and learning factors in the particle swarm optimization algorithm can affect the convergence of the final path. Increasing the particle dimensions can bring more reasonable and specific paths; decreasing the learning factor increases the convergence iterations, but also obtains a better path planning solution and higher fitness.
Parasitic Copepods as Biochemical Tracers of Foraging Patterns and Dietary Shifts in Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus Smith, 1828)
Authors: Osorio Brendon James , Skrzypek Grzegorz , Meekan Mark
Published: May 2023

Understanding the diet of whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) is essential for the development of appropriate conservation strategies for the species. This study evaluated the use of the parasitic copepod (Pandarus rhincodonicus) as a proxy to infer short-term foraging habitats and trophic positions of whale shark hosts. To accomplish this, bulk stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope compositions were analysed from 72 paired samples of whale shark skin (dermal) tissues and copepods collected across six years at the Ningaloo Reef aggregation site, Western Australia. This study found that δ15N from parasites and whale shark hosts were strongly correlated. As turn-over times of the parasite and whale shark differ (months vs. years, respectively), the ability of copepods to predict δ15N values indicates that the trophic positions of whale sharks remain consistent across these timeframes. Contrastingly, δ13C in the parasite and host were weakly correlated, likely reflecting differences in the physiology and lifecycle of the copepod parasite compared to the host. Our results suggest δ15N from parasitic copepods provides a reliable proxy of the trophic position of their whale shark hosts, but interpretation of δ13C values as a proxy for the host will require future studies on the lifecycle of P. rhincodonicus.
Impact of Surface Roughness on the Impingement of Urea–Water Solution Droplets
Authors: Quissek Max , Lauer Thomas
Published: May 2023

The understanding of impingement processes is crucial for optimizing automotive selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. An accurate description of this behavior helps design exhaust systems and increases the validity of modeling approaches. A component test bench was set up, featuring a droplet chain generator for producing droplet sizes typically found in the urea–water solution sprays of SCR systems. A heatable impingement plate with an interchangeable surface enabled investigation of the influence of surface roughness. Data were acquired using a high-speed camera and image postprocessing. The droplet–wall interaction could be described using different regimes. An approach to characterizing impingement behavior based on weighted-regime superposition enabled gradual transitions between regimes, instead of step-like changes. It was observed that the surface roughness increased the droplet–solid contact area and generated thermal-induced secondary droplets at lower temperatures. A region of enhanced mechanical disintegration of the droplet was found, caused by peaks of the surface shearing off parts of the droplet. The probability of a droplet rebounding from the wall was reduced on a rough surface, due to the interference of the surface spikes with the droplet’s spreading and contracting motion. Additionally, the influence of surface topography was investigated using a shot-peened surface. Caused by this surface’s reduced root mean square slope, the aforementioned enhancement of mechanical disintegration was not observed.
Experimental Investigation and Numerical CFD Assessment of a Thermodynamic Breakup Model for Superheated Sprays with Injection Pressure up to 700 Bar
Authors: Duronio Francesco , De Vita Angelo De , Montanaro Alessandro , Allocca Luigi
Published: May 2023

Among the most relevant fields of research recently investigated for improving the performance of gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines, there are ultrahigh injection pressures and the flash-boiling phenomenon. Both perform relevant roles in improving the air/fuel mixing process, reducing tailpipe emissions and implementing new combustion methods. When a high-temperature fuel is released into an environment with a pressure lower than the fuel’s saturation pressure, flash boiling occurs. Due to complex two-phase flow dynamics and quick droplet vaporization, flash boiling can significantly modify spray formation. Specifically, if properly controlled, flash boiling produces important benefits for the fuel–air mixture formation, the combustion quality and, in general, for overall engine operation. Flash boiling was broadly investigated for classical injection pressure, but few works concern ultrahigh injection pressure. Here, the investigation of the spray produced by a multihole injector was performed using both experimental imaging techniques and CFD simulations aiming to highlight the combined impact of the injection pressure and the flash boiling occurrence on the spray morphology. The shadowgraph method was employed to observe the spray experimentally. The information gathered allows for assessing the performances of an Eulerian–Lagrangian algorithm purposely developed. Breakup and evaporation models, appropriate for flashing sprays, were implemented in a CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) code. The experimental results and the CFD simulations demonstrate a good agreement, demonstrating that through adoption of a flash-boiling breakup model, it is possible to reproduce non-evaporating and superheated sprays while changing few simulation parameters. Finally, the results also show the significance of injection pressure in preventing spray collapse.
Impacts of Industrial Modification on the Structure and Gel Features of Soy Protein Isolate and its Composite Gel with Myofibrillar Protein
Authors: Hu Zhaodong , Wang Yichang , Ma Zihan , Cheng Tianfu , Guo Zengwang , Zhou Linyi , Wang Zhongjiang
Published: May 2023

Native soy protein isolate (N-SPI) has a low denaturation point and low solubility, limiting its industrial application. The influence of different industrial modification methods (heat (H), alkaline (A), glycosylation (G), and oxidation (O)) on the structure of SPI, the properties of the gel, and the gel properties of soy protein isolate (SPI) in myofibril protein (MP) was evaluated. The study found that four industrial modifications did not influence the subunit composition of SPI. However, the four industrial modifications altered SPI’s secondary structure and disulfide bond conformation content. A-SPI exhibits the highest surface hydrophobicity and I850/830 ratio but the lowest thermal stability. G-SPI exhibits the highest disulfide bond content and the best gel properties. Compared with MP gel, the addition of H-SPI, A-SPI, G-SPI, and O-SPI components significantly improved the properties of the gel. Additionally, MP-ASPI gel exhibits the best properties and microstructure. Overall, the four industrial modification effects may impact SPI’s structure and gel properties in different ways. A-SPI could be a potential functionality-enhanced soy protein ingredient in comminuted meat products. The present study results will provide a theoretical basis for the industrialized production of SPI.
Quality Standards and Contractual Terms Affecting Food Losses: The Perspective of Producer Organisations in Germany and Italy
Authors: Pietrangeli Roberta , Herzberg Ronja , Cicatiello Clara , Schneider Felicitas
Published: May 2023

With the aim of disclosing the antecedents and dynamics of food loss generation in the upstream stages of the fruit and vegetable sector, this paper presents the results of a series of semi-structured interviews with 10 Producers’ Organisations (POs) in Germany and Italy. The content of the interviews is analysed by applying a qualitative content analysis approach, thus disclosing the most relevant issues affecting food loss generation at the interface between POs and buyers (industry and retailers). Several similarities emerge as we compare the answers provided by Italian and German POs, especially concerning the role of retailers’ cosmetic specification on products in the generation of losses. Instead, the structure of contracts regulating commercial transactions between POs, industry, and retailers show noticeable differences, apparently resulting in a greater capacity to plan the demand of products from the beginning of the season in the Italian context. Despite these differences, this study confirms the key role of POs in increasing farmers’ bargaining power against the buyers, both in Germany and Italy. Further research is needed to compare circumstances in other European countries and to analyse why the similarities and differences identified occur.
Recent Advances in Sources, Migration, Public Health, and Surveillance of Bisphenol A and Its Structural Analogs in Canned Foods
Authors: Ni Ling , Zhong Jian , Chi Hai , Lin Na , Liu Zhidong
Published: May 2023

The occurrence of bisphenol A (BPA) and its structural analogs, known as endocrine disruptors is widely reported. Consumers could be exposed to these chemicals through canned foods, leading to health risks. Considerable advances have occurred in the pathogenic mechanism, migration law, and analytical methodologies for these compounds in canned foods. However, the confusion and controversies on sources, migration, and health impacts have plagued researchers. This review aimed to provide insights and perspectives on sources, migration, effects on human health, and surveillance of these chemicals in canned food products. Current trends in the determination of BPA and its structural analogs have focused on mass spectroscopy and electrochemical sensor techniques. Several factors, including pH, time, temperature, and volume of the headspace in canned foods, could affect the migration of the chemicals. Moreover, it is necessary to quantify the proportion of them originating from the can material used in canned product manufacturing. In addition, adverse reaction research about exposure to low doses and combined exposure with other food contaminants will be required. We strongly believe that the information presented in this paper will assist in highlighting the research needs on these chemicals in canned foods for future risk evaluations.
Qualitative and Quantitative Assessments of Apple Quality Using Vis Spectroscopy Combined with Improved Particle-Swarm-Optimized Neural Networks
Authors: Peng Wenping , Ren Zhong , Wu Junli , Xiong Chengxin , Liu Longjuan , Sun Bingheng , Liang Gaoqiang , Zhou Mingbin
Published: May 2023

Exploring a cost-effective and high-accuracy optical detection method is of great significance in promoting fruit quality evaluation and grading sales. Apples are one of the most widely economic fruits, and a qualitative and quantitative assessment of apple quality based on soluble solid content (SSC) was investigated via visible (Vis) spectroscopy in this study. Six pretreatment methods and principal component analysis (PCA) were utilized to enhance the collected spectra. The qualitative assessment of apple SSC was performed using a back-propagation neural network (BPNN) combined with second-order derivative (SD) and Savitzky–Golay (SG) smoothing. The SD-SG-PCA-BPNN model’s classification accuracy was 87.88%. To improve accuracy and convergence speed, a dynamic learning rate nonlinear decay (DLRND) strategy was coupled with the model. After that, particle swarm optimization (PSO) was employed to optimize the model. The classification accuracy was 100% for testing apples via the SD-SG-PCA-PSO-BPNN model combined with a Gaussian DLRND strategy. Then, quantitative assessments of apple SSC values were performed. The correlation coefficient (r) and root-square-mean error for prediction (RMSEP) in testing apples were 0.998 and 0.112 °Brix, surpassing a commercial fructose meter. The results demonstrate that Vis spectroscopy combined with the proposed synthetic model has significant value in qualitative and quantitative assessments of apple quality.
Emergent Gravity Simulations for Schwarzschild–de Sitter Scenarios
Authors: Keppens Arno
Published: May 2023

Building on previous work that considered gravity to emerge from the collective behaviour of discrete, pre-geometric spacetime constituents, this work identifies these constituents with gravitons and rewrites their effective gravity-inducing interaction in terms of local variables for Schwarzschild–de Sitter scenarios. This formulation enables graviton-level simulations of entire emergent gravitational systems. A first simulation scenario confirms that the effective graviton interaction induces the emergence of spacetime curvature upon the insertion of a graviton condensate into a flat spacetime background. A second simulation scenario demonstrates that free fall can be considered to be fine-tuned towards a geodesic trajectory, for which the graviton flux, as experienced by a test mass, disappears.