bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Mechanical Keyboard Switch and Backlight Status on Typing Performance and User Experience
Authors: Li Jutao , Wang Junwen , Huang Yanqun
Published: October 2024

Mechanical keyboards are one of the most used keyboards in daily work, and as the core component of a mechanical keyboard, keyswitches’ characteristics have been widely researched during the last several decades. Meanwhile, keyboards’ backlight design has become an emerging market trend, even though its actual influence on user experience remains unknown. Our study investigated the influence of keyboard switch characteristics and backlight states on typing performance and subjective typing experience. Thirty-three participants were involved in an English-language typing task on keyboards with four typical switches (red, black, brown, and blue types). Software was used to automatically record typing speed and accuracy, and a 7-point Likert subjective scale was used to evaluate typing experience. Results showed that tactile characteristics performed better than linear switches in typing speed, accuracy, and subjective refresh feeling in pair comparison of blue and red switches, and turning on the backlight effect improved typing speed, refreshing feeling, and pleasure. Among six physical characteristics of switches measured in the experiment, pre travel, reset travel, make force, and bottom force contributed more to better typing performance and subjective experience. Our findings provide keyboard manufacturers and researchers with a reference to optimize users’ typing experience.
Melt Characteristics of a Deposited Layer on Rail Surface under Different Contact Models for Electromagnetic Launching
Authors: Yao Jinming , Bao Jianbo , Sun Jiandong , Zhang Tengfei , Wang Qinglei
Published: October 2024

Understanding the melting of the deposited layer is crucial for the armature’s melting process and sliding electrical contact performance. This study first establishes contact models for both the boundary lubrication state (BLS) and squeezed-film lubrication state (SFLS). A three-dimensional magnetic diffusion model is then constructed to simulate interface current distribution in these contact states. It is discovered that the maximum current density on the surface of the armature shows a decreasing trend as the thickness of the deposited layer grows. Then, a calculation model for the deposited layer’s melting thickness under BLS is developed. For SFLS, Reynolds and energy equations are used to construct models for liquid film thickness and the deposited layer’s melting thickness. The results indicate that the deposited layer’s melting thickness under BLS is significantly greater than that under SFLS. Specifically, the melting thickness decreases with launching displacement in BLS and increases under SFLS. In SFLS, the deposited layer’s melting can suppress armature melting, though it remains nearly equivalent to that observed with polished rail. These findings provide a foundation for deposited layer control technology, which is essential for enhancing sliding electric contact performance and launching efficiency.
Bi-Directional Charging with V2L Integration for Optimal Energy Management in Electric Vehicles
Authors: Muniandi Balakumar , Wan Siyi , El-Yabroudi Mohammad
Published: October 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as an efficient transportation solution but they also present unique challenges for energy management. Bi-directional charging (BDC) is a solution that allows EVs to not only consume energy from the grid but also supply energy back to the grid. This facilitates vehicle-to-load (V2L) integration, where EVs can act as mobile power sources for homes, buildings, and the grid. V2L enables better energy management by utilizing EVs as a flexible resource to balance grid demand and supply in the proposed system. This is achieved through intelligent coordination between the EVs, charging stations, and the grid, using smart meters and communication networks. Integration of BDC and V2L also enables EVs to provide backup power during grid outages, reduce the need for costly grid infrastructure, and support renewable energy integration. BDC with V2L integration is a promising approach for optimal energy management in EVs and can play a significant role in the future of sustainable transportation and energy systems. The proposed model reached 95.13% charging efficiency, 95.03% energy management, 95.69% power rating, 96.28% voltage support and 87.99% temperature management.
Digitalisation and Cybersecurity: Towards an Operational Framework
Authors: Metin Bilgin , Özhan Fatma Gül , Wynn Martin
Published: October 2024

As businesses increasingly adopt digital processes and solutions to enhance efficiency and productivity, they face heightened cybersecurity threats. Through a systematic literature review and concept development, this article examines the intersection of digitalisation and cybersecurity. It identifies the methodologies and tools used for cybersecurity assessments, factors influencing the adoption of cybersecurity measures, and the critical success factors for implementing these measures. The article also puts forward the concept of cybersecurity governance process categories, which are used to classify the factors uncovered in the research. Findings suggest that current information security standards tend to be too broad and not adequately tailored to the specific needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) when implementing emerging technologies, like Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and artificial intelligence (AI). Additionally, these standards often employ a top-down approach, which makes it challenging for SMEs to effectively implement them, as they require more scalable solutions tailored to their specific risks and limited resources. The study thus proposes a new framework based on the Plan-Do-Check model, built around the cybersecurity governance process categories and the three core pillars of governance, culture and standards. This is essentially a bottom-up approach that complements current top-down methods, and will be of value to both information technology (IT) professionals as an operational guide, and to researchers as a basis for future research in this field.
Influence of Ti Layers on the Efficiency of Solar Cells and the Reduction of Heat Transfer in Building-Integrated Photovoltaics
Authors: Kwaśnicki Paweł , Augustowski Dariusz , Generowicz Agnieszka , Kochanek Anna
Published: October 2024

This study examined the potential application of metallic coatings to mitigate the adverse effects of ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) light on photovoltaic modules. Titanium coatings were applied on low-iron glass surfaces using magnetron sputtering at powers of 1000, 1250, 1500, 1750, 2000, and 2500 W. The module with uncoated glass served as a reference. The Ti layer thickness varied from 7 nm to 20 nm. Transmittance and reflectance spectra were used to calculate visible light transmittance Lt, UV light transmittance Ltuv, solar transmittance g, and visible light reflectance Lr. The obtained parameters indicated that the thinnest Ti layer (1000 W) coating did not significantly affect light transmittance, but thicker layers did, altering the Lt, g, and Lr factors. However, every sample noticeably changed Ltuv, probably due to the natural formation of a UV-reflective thin TiO2 layer. The differences in fill factor (FF) were minimal, but thicker coatings resulted in lower open-circuit voltages (Uoc) and short-circuit currents (Isc), leading to a reduction in power conversion efficiency (PCE). Notably, a Ti coating deposited at 2500 W reduced the power of the photovoltaic module by 78% compared to the uncoated sample but may protect modules against the unwanted effects of overheating.
A Holistic Multi-Criteria Assessment of Solar Energy Utilization on Urban Surfaces
Authors: Gholami Hassan
Published: October 2024

Urban surfaces such as rooftops, facades, and infrastructure offer significant potential for solar energy integration, contributing to energy efficiency and sustainability in cities. This article introduces an advanced multi-criteria assessment (MCA) framework designed to evaluate the suitability of various urban surfaces for solar energy deployment. The framework extends beyond traditional economic, environmental, and technological factors to include social, political, legal, health and safety, cultural, and psychological dimensions, providing a comprehensive evaluation of photovoltaic (PV) applications in urban contexts. By synthesizing existing literature and applying this holistic MCA framework, this research offers valuable insights for urban planners, architects, and policymakers, enabling strategic optimization of solar energy integration in urban environments. The findings underscore the importance of sustainable urban development and climate resilience, highlighting key factors influencing solar technology deployment and proposing actionable recommendations to address existing challenges.
Evaluation and Long-Term Prediction of Annual Wind Farm Energy Production
Authors: Hyun Seunggun , Park Youn Cheol
Published: October 2024

A comparison and evaluation of the AEP(Annual Energy Production) of a wind farm were conducted in this study with a feasibility study and using the actual operation data from the S wind farm on Jeju Island from January 2020 to December 2022. The free wind speed data were selected from the data measured from a nacelle anemometer, the correlation equation between wind speed and AEP was obtained, and the annual average wind speed for the past 20 years was predicted using the MCP method. As a result, comparing the AEP from the operation data with that estimated in the feasibility study, we found that the AEP was reduced by approximately 2.40% in 2020 and 12.14% in 2021, and increased by 6.76% in 2022. The wind speeds over the 20-year lifetimes of the wind turbines were obtained, and the AEP that could be generated at the S wind farm indicated that it could be used for operation. In the future, the S wind farm will operate at between 25% and 30% availability for the remaining 17 years of operation. If the availability falls below 25%, there will be a need to check the reasons for the deterioration of wind turbine performance and the frequency of failures.
Federated Deep Learning Model for False Data Injection Attack Detection in Cyber Physical Power Systems
Authors: Kausar Firdous , Deo Sambrdhi , Hussain Sajid , Ul Haque Zia
Published: October 2024

Cyber-physical power systems (CPPS) integrate information and communication technology into conventional electric power systems to facilitate bidirectional communication of information and electric power between users and power grids. Despite its benefits, the open communication environment of CPPS is vulnerable to various security attacks. This paper proposes a federated deep learning-based architecture to detect false data injection attacks (FDIAs) in CPPS. The proposed work offers a strong, decentralized alternative with the ability to boost detection accuracy while maintaining data privacy, presenting a significant opportunity for real-world applications in the smart grid. This framework combines state-of-the-art machine learning and deep learning models, which are used in both centralized and federated learning configurations, to boost the detection of false data injection attacks in cyber-physical power systems. In particular, the research uses a multi-stage detection framework that combines several models, including classic machine learning classifiers like Random Forest and ExtraTrees Classifiers, and deep learning architectures such as Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU). The results demonstrate that Bidirectional GRU and LSTM models with attention layers in a federated learning setup achieve superior performance, with accuracy approaching 99.8%. This approach enhances both detection accuracy and data privacy, offering a robust solution for FDIA detection in real-world smart grid applications.
Advancements in Key Technologies for Vibration Isolators Utilizing Electromagnetic Levitation
Authors: Lou Yuexuan , Zhang He , Zhang Lu , Cai Haoran
Published: October 2024

With the advancement of manufacturing, the precision requirements for various high-precision processing equipment and instruments have further increased. Due to its noncontact nature, simple structure, and controllable performance, electromagnetic levitation has broad application prospects in ultra-precision instruments and ground testing of aerospace equipment. Research on vibration isolation technology using electromagnetic levitation is imperative. This paper reviews the latest research achievements of three types of passive isolators and five active isolation actuators. It also summarizes the current research status of analytical methods for passive isolators and the impact of isolator layout. This study explores current isolators’ achievements, such as the development of passive isolators that generate negative stiffness and require mechanical springs for uniaxial translational vibrations, single-function actuators, and control systems focused on position and motion vibration control. Based on the current isolators’ characteristics, this review highlights future developments, including focusing on passive isolators for heavy loads and multi-axis isolation, addressing complex vibrations, including rotational ones, and developing methods to calculate forces and torques for arbitrary six-DOF movements while improving speed. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of multifunctional actuators to simplify system structures and comprehensive control systems that consider more environmental factors. This provides significant reference value for vibration isolation technology using electromagnetic levitation.
Impacts on Regional Growth and “Resource Curse” of China’s Energy Consumption “Dual Control” Policy
Authors: Xu Xiaoliang
Published: October 2024

Accurately evaluating the effectiveness of the energy consumption “dual control” policy can effectively solve serious the current environmental pollution and promote ecological civilization. However, researchers have rarely considered the impacts on the regional “resource curse” of the energy consumption “dual control” policy. A dynamic computable general equilibrium model (CGE) was built to evaluate the impacts on the regional “resource curse” of the energy intensity control and total energy control policy. The results showed the following. (1) The energy consumption “dual control” policy changes the supply-and-demand relationship of factors and reduces the crowding-out effect of humans and capital. (2) The energy consumption “dual control” policy has restrained GDP growth, and the total output and total investment have declined. However, the impact in regions without the “resource curse” is remarkable. (3) The energy consumption “dual control” policy has a significant inhibitory effect on major pollutants and carbon emissions. (4) The energy consumption “dual control” policy has played a positive role in breaking the regional “resource curse”. The areas with a high and low “resource curse” have become smaller, and the areas without the “resource curse” have increased significantly. The following suggestions are made: (1) increase the flexibility of the “dual control” policy of energy consumption, (2) establish an energy consumption budget management system, and (3) accelerate the establishment of a carbon footprint management system.
Phase Behavior and Rational Development Mode of a Fractured Gas Condensate Reservoir with High Pressure and Temperature: A Case Study of the Bozi 3 Block
Authors: Zhang Yongling , Tang Yangang , Shi Juntai , Dai Haoxiang , Jia Xinfeng , Feng Ge , Yang Bo , Li Wenbin
Published: October 2024

The Bozi 3 reservoir is an ultra-deep condensate reservoir (−7800 m) with a high temperature (138.24 °C) and high pressure (104.78 MPa), leading to complex phase behaviors. Few PVT studies could be referred in the literature to meet such high temperature and pressure conditions. Furthermore, it is questionable regarding the applicability of existing condensate production techniques to such a high temperature and pressure reservoir. This study first characterized the phase behavior via PVT experiments and EOS tuning. The operating conditions were then optimized through reservoir numerical simulation. Results showed that: (1) the critical condensate temperature and pressure of Bozi 3 condensate gas were 326.24 °C and 43.83 MPa, respectively; (2) four gases (methane, recycled dry gas, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen) were analyzed, and methane was identified as the optimal injection gas; (3) gas injection started when the production began to fall and achieved higher recovery than gas injection started when the pressure fell below the dew-point pressure; (4) simultaneous injection of methane at both the upper and lower parts of the reservoir can effectively produce condensate oil over the entire block. This scheme achieved 8690.43 m3 more oil production and 2.75% higher recovery factor in comparison with depletion production.
Innovations in Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Chianese Simeone , Musmarra Dino
Published: October 2024

The rapid growth of the world population and climate change are two key factors that immensely affect freshwater availability [...]
Forest-Based Health Practices: Social Representations of Nature and Favorable Environmental Characteristics
Authors: Théberge Delphine , Flamand-Hubert Maude , Nadeau Solange , Girard Julie , Bradette Isabelle , Asselin Hugo
Published: October 2024

Forest frequentation is associated with benefits for human health, warranting the importance of forest-based health practices. These practices can be classified into four categories: connection with nature (e.g., Shinrin-Yoku, yoga, and meditation); sports, outdoor, and adventure activities; Indigenous health practices on the land; and professional consultations in a natural environment. The aim of this research was to better understand the social representations of the forest supporting these practices and the environmental characteristics that are favorable to them, as well as to examine the effects of these practices on the forests. We interviewed 28 forest-based health practitioners in Quebec and conducted four participant observation activities. Data analysis led us to five forest representations: an entity in its own self, an unfamiliar area, a place of attachment, a land at the heart of Indigenous cultures, and a tool to improve health. The results showed that favorable environmental characteristics varied according to the type of health practice. The presence of water (e.g., drinking water, lakes, and rivers) is favorable to all forest-based health practices and access to nature seems to be an issue for many practitioners. We also found that forest-based health practices were leaving traces in the forest and attempting to redefine the place of humans in nature.
Unveiling the Secrets: How Landscape Patterns Shape Habitat Quality in Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park
Authors: Du Xishihui , Chen Ying , Wang Zhaoguo
Published: October 2024

The Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park (NCTLNP) is a critical habitat for the endangered Amur tiger and Amur leopard, making it a global biodiversity hotspot. This study explores how changes in landscape patterns have influenced habitat quality in the park, aiming to develop strategies for enhancing biodiversity conservation and ensuring the park’s long-term sustainability. From 2012 to 2017, habitat quality in the NCTLNP experienced a significant decline; however, the launch of the national park pilot program in 2017 resulted in improvements, particularly in core protected areas, where habitat quality increased and landscape fragmentation decreased. These findings indicate that the national park initiative reduced the degradation of habitat quality. Key landscape metrics, especially the Shannon Diversity Index (SHDI), were found to significantly affect habitat quality. Additionally, the interaction between SHDI and landscape contagion (CONTAG) played a pivotal role in shaping habitat quality over time. Areas with high SHDI and low CONTAG showed declines in habitat quality, pointing to the need for focused conservation efforts. This study offers valuable insights for policymakers seeking to improve habitat quality through targeted landscape management practices.
Identification of the HbZAR1 Gene and Its Potential Role as a Minor Gene in Response to Powdery Mildew and Anthracnose of Hevea brasiliensis
Authors: Liu Qifeng , Qiao Anqi , Zhou Shaoyao , Lu Yiying , Yang Ye , Wang Lifeng , Qin Bi , Wang Meng , Liang Xiaoyu , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2024

Powdery mildew and anthracnose are the main diseases of rubber trees. In recent years, there have been large outbreaks in the rubber-planting areas of Asia, seriously affecting the yield and quality of rubber latex. ZAR1 is a conserved and distinctive coiled-coil nucleotide-binding leucine-rich (CNL) repeat in the plant kingdom, playing a crucial role in disease-resistance processes. To elucidate the function of the HbZAR1 gene in rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis), three candidate HbZAR1 genes were identified using bioinformatics methods and comprehensively analyzed. The results indicate that the HbZAR1 protein is conserved in different plant species. Examination of cis-regulatory element sequences of HbZAR1genes reveals that the HbZAR1 gene promoter exhibits a remarkable enrichment of stress, light, and hormone elements. An expression analysis shows that the expression levels of the three HbZAR1 genes are highest in the bark and lowest in latex. Three HbZAR1 genes can respond to both rubber tree Erysiphe quercicola and Colletotrichum siamense infection; especially, HbZAR1.1 and HbZAR1.2 show significant upregulation in expression levels during the early stages of infection. These findings suggest that the three HbZAR1 genes may be involved in rubber tree susceptibility to E. quercicola and C. siamense through different immune mechanisms. Subcellular localization results indicate that the HbZAR1 genes are expressed in the nucleus and plasma membrane. This study also shows that the three HbZAR1 genes and activated mutant HbZAR1.1D481V do not induce stable ROS production and cell death, suggesting possible gene degradation, functional redundancy, or acting as minor genes in disease resistance. This research provides valuable insights for further studying the function of HbZAR1 genes in rubber trees and the mechanisms of immune molecules.
Advancing Knowledge in Forest Water Use Efficiency Under Global Climate Change Through Scientometric Analysis
Authors: Farooqi Tanzeel Javaid Aini , Irfan Muhammad , Zhou Xu , Pan Shulin , Atta Asma , Li Jiajun
Published: October 2024

Forests are critical in regulation of carbon and water cycles and mitigation of climate change. Forest water-use efficiency (WUE) refers to the ratio of biomass produced (or assimilated carbon) to the amount of water used by forests, which indicates how effectively a forest utilizes water to achieve productivity. Climate change and its impact on forest WUE are important research directions that explore the complex relationship between global environmental change and the forest ecosystem dynamics. The global intensification of climate change underscores the need for an inclusive understanding of forest water use and makes it crucial to know how forests balance carbon and water resources, which is essential for effective forest management and predicting ecosystem responses to climate change. This study aims to comprehensively and objectively analyze current research trends and future directions related to the response of forest WUE to climate change. Our database included 1755 research papers from the Web of Science Core Collection, spanning from 2000 to 2023. Our analysis included cooperative networks of countries, authors, and institutions, as well as the most frequently cited journals and articles, keyword co-occurrence analysis, and a keyword burst analysis. The results showed that the top cooperative country, author, and institution is PR China, Prof. Dr. Jesús Julio Camarero from the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, respectively. The leading journal in this field is “Global Change Biology”. Critical research hot topics include gas exchange, modeling, altitudinal gradients, tree growth dynamics, net carbon exchange, global change drivers, tropical forests, nitrogen stoichiometry, Northern China plains, and extreme drought conditions. Frontier topics that have emerged in recent years include studies on China’s Loess Plateau, stable isotopes, radial growth, gross primary productivity, and Scots pine. The insights from this analysis are vital for researchers, decision-makers, and forestry professionals aiming to mitigate the impacts of climate change on forest WUE and overall ecosystem health and resilience. This study emphasizes the importance of sustained research efforts and global research collaboration in addressing the intricate challenges posed by climate change to forest ecosystems.
Assessing Climate Change Impact on Habitat Suitability and Ecological Connectivity of Wych Elm (Ulmus glabra Huds.) in Türkiye
Authors: Ar Buse , Velázquez Javier , Tonyaloğlu Ebru Ersoy , Sezgin Mehmet , Çorbacı Ömer Lütfü , Özcan Ali Uğur , Çiçek Kerim , Mongil-Manso Jorge , Alexandre Castanho Rui , Gülçin Derya
Published: October 2024

Understanding how climate change influences the geographical distribution of species within an ecological niche is essential for predicting habitat shifts and informing conservation efforts. This study evaluates the impact of climate change on habitat suitability and ecological connectivity of wych elm (Ulmus glabra Huds.) in Türkiye. The study explores the future distribution of U. glabra and how its connectivity is affected by habitat fragmentation arising from changing climatic conditions. Contextually, this paper aims to achieve two primary objectives: estimating the potential geographical ranges of U. glabra under different climate scenarios and assessing alterations in ecological connections between current and future habitats. The maximum entropy (MaxEnt) model was used along with Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA), and the Probability of Connectivity (PC) index was applied to show possible transformations in distribution patterns of U. glabra over time. The findings suggest that there will be a reduction in the suitability of locations for the species. Moreover, it is expected that under future climate scenarios, ecological connectivity will decline, especially from 2061 to 2100 in the SSP585 scenario. Notably, significant alterations are anticipated during the latter half of the twenty-first century, mainly outside the coastal areas of the Black Sea, where extensive regions would become unsuitable. Additionally, the species is projected to shift its range, decreasing its presence in inland regions while expanding along the coasts. The results show the vulnerability of this species against climate change, thereby demanding adaptive conservation measures to preserve it within the forest ecosystems of Türkiye.
In Situ Enrichment of Anammox Bacteria from Pig Farm Anoxic Sludge Through Co-Cultivation with a Quorum-Sensing Functional Strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Liu Yong , Zhu Yiru , Deng Jianping , Yan Bing , Zhan Jian , Wei Yuansong , Nie Hanbing , Gui Shuanglin
Published: October 2024

Anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox), as an efficient and low-carbon method for nitrogen removal from wastewater, faces the challenge of slow enrichment of functional bacteria. In this study, the enrichment of anammox bacteria Candidatus Brocadia was successfully accelerated by co-culturing with the quorum-sensing strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa and anoxic sludge from a pig farm. Experimental results showed that the R2, which had Pseudomonas aeruginosa added, exhibited chemical reaction ratios RS (NO2−-N consumption/NH4+-N consumption) and RP (NO3−-N production/NH4+-N consumption) closer to the theoretical values of the anammox reaction since Phase Ⅱ. Bacterial community analysis indicated that the abundance of Candidatus Brocadia in R2 reached 1.63% in cycle 20, significantly higher than the 0.45% in R1. More quorum-sensing signaling molecules, primarily C6-HSL, were detected in R2. C6-HSL was positively correlated with processes such as the secretion of anammox extracellular polymers (EPS) and the regulation of nitric oxide reductase (Nir), which may explain the reason behind the accelerated increase in the abundance of Candidatus Brocadia through co-culturing. Moreover, the metabolism of the dominant genus Paracoccus within the two groups of reactors also showed positive regulation by C6-HSL, with its abundance trend similar to that of Candidatus Brocadia, jointly completing the nitrogen removal process in the reactors. However, it is still unknown which genera secrete large amounts of C6-HSL after inoculation with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This research provides a novel and low-cost method for the enrichment of anammox bacteria.
Ferulic Acid and Clinoptilolite Affect In Vitro Rumen Fermentation Characteristics and Bacterial Abundance
Authors: Tánori-Lozano Ana , López-Baca M. Ángeles , Muhlia-Almazán Adriana , Montalvo-Corral Maricela , Pinelli-Saavedra Araceli , Islava-Lagarda Thalia Y. , Dávila-Ramírez José Luis , Valenzuela-Melendres Martín , González-Rios Humberto
Published: October 2024

This study evaluated the effects of clinoptilolite (CTL) and ferulic acid (FA) supplementation on in vitro ruminal fermentation characteristics, gas production, and bacterial abundance. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial design (FA: 0 or 300 ppm; CTL: 0 or 1%) with repeated measures over time (2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h). Throughout the incubation period, the CTL and FAZ treatments recorded the highest pH values (p ≤ 0.05), maintaining levels closest to neutrality after 72 h. After 48 and 72 h, FA and CTL decreased (p ≤ 0.05) the ammonia concentrations while increasing (p ≤ 0.05) acetate and propionate. The methane, butyrate, and iso-VFA concentrations were unaffected (p > 0.05) by any treatment. FA increased the total gas production throughout the experimental period (p ≤ 0.05). Additionally, FA and CTL significantly reduced the relative abundance of Ruminococcus albus and Streptococcus bovis (p ≤ 0.05), while no significant effects were observed for Selenomonas ruminantium (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that both additives can positively modify the rumen fermentation characteristics and microbial composition, which could significantly contribute to animal nutrition by providing a promising strategy for enhancing rumen fermentation.
On Exploiting and Implementing Collaborative Virtual and Augmented Reality in a Cloud Continuum Scenario
Authors: Di Martino Beniamino , Pezzullo Gennaro Junior , Bombace Vincenzo , Li Ling-Huey , Li Kuan-Ching
Published: October 2024

This work explores the application of collaborative virtual and augmented reality in a cloud continuum context, focusing on designing, implementing, and verifying three reference architectures for five collaborative VR/AR software deployment. The architectures designed differ in their distribution of computational load: one handles everything in the cloud, one balances the load between the cloud and the edge, and the last concentrates the load entirely on the edge. The design of the architectures was initially outlined through sequence and component diagrams and then implemented using the most appropriate technologies and frameworks. For each architecture, a specific application was developed and deployed on the various components of that architecture to test its proper functioning. Finally, the scenarios were simulated to be stressed with a significant number of users, employing tools such as Cloud Analyst to analyze performance and present well-defined and implemented reference architectures.
Cybersecurity Maintenance in the Automotive Industry Challenges and Solutions: A Technology Adoption Approach
Authors: Fernandez de Arroyabe Ignacio , Watson Tim , Phillips Iain
Published: October 2024

Numerous attempts have been made to create a secure system that meets the criteria and requirements of the automotive vehicle development life cycle. However, a critical gap exists in the secure development lifecycle, particularly concerning the development and maintenance of software after the vehicle has been sold by the manufacturer. This step is often overlooked by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), especially after the expiration of the vehicle warranty period, given the cost that it will require to update and test the software in their vehicles. This paper addresses the issues that affect current and future vehicle cybersecurity, during the maintenance of cybersecurity, and how the neglect of it could end up creating hazards for the vehicle owner or other road users. To accomplish this, we will employ the technology adoption model (TAM) as a theoretical framework, which is used to understand and predict how organizations adopt technology. Thus, through qualitative and quantitative research, including text mining, we identify the challenges in the adoption and diffusion of cybersecurity maintenance in the automotive sector and its supply chain. In addition, we propose possible solutions on how to maintain a level of security that will benefit road users, OEMs and regulators, covering the cybersecurity needs for the vehicle’s usable life, taking into account the vehicle’s heterogeneity of components and technology, connectivity, environmental impact and cost of production and maintenance of a vehicle.
Predicting the Duration of Forest Fires Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Kopitsa Constantina , Tsoulos Ioannis G. , Charilogis Vasileios , Stavrakoudis Athanassios
Published: October 2024

For thousands of years forest fires played the role of a regulator in the ecosystem. Forest fires contributed to the ecological balance by destroying old and diseased plant material; but in the modern era fires are a major problem that tests the endurance not only of government agencies around the world, but also have an effect on climate change. Forest fires have become more intense, more destructive, and more deadly; these are known as megafires. They can cause major economic and ecological problems, especially in the summer months (dry season). However, humanity has developed a tool that can predict fire events, to detect them in time, but also to predict their duration. This tool is artificial intelligence, specifically, machine learning, which is one part of AI. Consequently, this paper briefly mentions several methods of machine learning as used in predicting forest fires and in early detection, submitting an overall review of current models. Our main overall objective is to venture into a new field: predicting the duration of ongoing forest fires. Our contribution offers a new way to manage forest fires, using accessible open data, available from the Hellenic Fire Service. In particular, we imported over 72,000 data from a 10-year period (2014–2023) using machine learning techniques. The experimental and validation results are more than encouraging, with Random Forest achieving the lowest value for the error range (8–13%), meaning it was 87–92% accurate on the prediction of forest fire duration. Finally, some future directions in which to extend this research are presented.
Investigation of the Minimum Ignition Energy Required for Combustion of Coal Dust Blended with Fugitive Methane
Authors: Zanganeh Jafar , Ajrash Al-Zuraiji Mohammed J. , Moghtaderi Behdad
Published: October 2024

Ventilation Air Methane (VAM) significantly contributes to global warming. Capturing and mitigating these emissions can help combat climate change. One effective method is the thermal decomposition of methane, but it requires careful control to prevent explosions from the high temperatures involved. This research investigates the influence of methane concentration and coal dust particle properties on the minimum ignition energy (MIE) required for fugitive methane thermal decomposition and flame propagation properties. This knowledge is crucial for the mining industry to effectively prevent and mitigate accidental fires and explosions in VAM abatement plants. Coal dust samples from three different sources were selected for this study. Experiments were conducted using a modified Hartmann glass tube and a Thermal Gravimetric Analyser (TGA). The chemical properties of coal dust were determined through ultimate and proximate analysis. The particle size distribution was determined using a Mastersizer 3000 apparatus (manufactured by Malvern Panalytical, Malvern, UK). The results showed that the MIE is significantly affected by coal dust particle size, with smaller particles (<74 µm) requiring less energy to ignite compared to coarser particles. Additionally, blending methane with coal dust further reduces the MIE. Introducing methane concentrations of 1% and 2.5% into the combustion space reduced the MIE by 25% and 74%, respectively, for the <74 µm coal dust size fraction. It was observed that coal dust concentration can either raise or lower the MIE. Larger coal dust concentrations, acting as a heat sink, reduce the likelihood of ignition and increase the MIE. This effect was noted at a methane concentration of 2.5% and coal dust levels above 3000 g/m3. In contrast, small amounts of coal dust had little impact on MIE variation. Moreover, the presence of methane during combustion increased the upward flame travel distance and propagation velocity. The flame’s vertical travel distance increased from 124 mm to 300 mm for a coal dust concentration of 300 g·m−3 blended with 1% and 2.5% methane, respectively.
Smoldering Ignition and Transition to Flaming Combustion of Pine Needle Fuel Beds: Effects of Bulk Density and Heat Supply
Authors: Yang Jiuling , Xu Jiepei , Wu Xiang , Wang Haoliang
Published: October 2024

The smoldering of pine needle fuel beds (PNBs) has been a common subject of research because of its importance in initiating the rekindling of forest floor fires. Experimental studies of the coupling effects of the bulk density and external heat supply on smoldering in PNBs have been scarce up to now. In this study, laboratory smoldering experiments were conducted to study the coupling effects of bulk density (30–55 kg m−3) and heat supply (ignition-off temperature Toff = 190 °C and 230 °C). Different ignition modes were observed under the same conditions, including non- ignition (NI), flaming ignition (FI), and the smoldering-to-flaming (StF) transition. The results in this study showed that the bulk density had distinct effects on different ignition modes: the increase in the bulk density facilitated the StF transition but impeded the FI. The coupling effects between the bulk density and heat supply became more intricate, especially at lower bulk densities and at a reduced heat supply. Additionally, a simple energy balance equation was established to explain the coupling effects of bulk density and heat supply on ignition behavior. The critical mass loss rate (MLR) for the StF transition ranged from 0.01 g s−1 to 0.03 g s−1, while the critical MLR for FI was 0.035 g s−1. The modified combustion efficiency (MCE) index for the StF transition decreased from approximately 79.6% to 70.1% as the density increased from 30 kg m−3 to 55 kg m−3. In contrast, the MCE for FI was approximately 90% across all the bulk densities. The StF transition delay time increased from 50 s at 30 kg m−3 to 1296 s at 55 kg m−3 when Toff = 230 °C. Further reduction in heat supply led to an increase in the delay time for the StF transition by diminishing the intensity of smoldering combustion. This work advances the fundamental understanding of how heat supply and bulk density impact smoldering ignition modes, ultimately aiding in the development of wildfire prevention strategies.
Thermogravimetric Analysis of Combustion of Semi-Coke Obtained from Coniferous Wood and Mixtures on Their Basis
Authors: Zhuikov Andrey , Pyanykh Tatyana , Grishina Irina , Chicherin Stanislav , Zhuikova Yana
Published: October 2024

Coal remains one of the most used solid fuels for heat and electricity generation but burning coal releases large amounts of CO2 into the urban atmosphere in addition to harmful substances. In order to reduce the consumption of solid fossil fuels, it is necessary to search for fuels capable of replacing coal in terms of its thermal and environmental characteristics. One of the best alternative fuels is biomass, which is considered carbon neutral, but its thermal characteristics are worse than those of solid fossil fuels. In this work, an alternative to coal was studied for the first time, which was semi-coke, obtained by gasification at a temperature of 700–900 °C, the heat of combustion of which turned out to be higher than that of biomass before thermal treatment by 75%. We also studied fuel mixtures based on the resulting semi-coke. The aim of the work is to determine the main characteristics of combustion of semi-coke obtained from coniferous wood and mixtures based on them. The method of thermogravimetric analysis in oxidising medium at a heating rate of 20 °C/min was applied for the research. According to the results of this analysis, the ignition and burnout temperatures were determined, the combustion index was determined, the duration of coke residue combustion was determined, and synergetic interactions between the mixture components influencing the combustion characteristics were established. It was found that the ignition temperature of semi-coke is more than 50% higher than that of biomass and the burnout temperature is 10% higher. Adding 50% of biomass to semi-coke increases the combustion index by more than 30% and decreases the ignition temperature and burnout temperature. The mixture components synergistically interact with each other during combustion to reduce the value of maximum mass loss rate. It was found that the atomic ratios of O/C and H/C in semi-coke are lower than in biomass before gasification.
Characterising the Chemical Composition of Bushfire Smoke and Implications for Firefighter Exposure in Western Australia
Authors: Padamsey Kiam , Liebenberg Adelle , Wallace Ruth , Oosthuizen Jacques
Published: October 2024

This study evaluates bushfire smoke as a workplace hazard for firefighters by characterising its chemical composition and potential health risks in Western Australia. Portable Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometry was used to measure airborne chemical concentrations at prescribed burns across five regions, including peat (acid sulphate) fire events. Samples were collected during both flaming and smouldering phases, as well as in perceived “clear” air resting zones. Results indicated that carbon monoxide (CO) was the dominant gas, reaching concentrations of 205 ppm at the fire front, followed by nitrogen monoxide (26 ppm) and methane (19 ppm). Peat fires produced distinct profiles, with ammonia (21.5 ppm) and sulphur dioxide (9.5 ppm) concentrations higher than those observed in typical bushfires. Smouldering phases emitted higher chemical concentrations than flaming phases 75% of the time. Even clear air zones contained measurable chemicals, with CO levels averaging 18 ppm, suggesting that firefighters are not free from exposure during rest periods. These findings highlight the need for fit-for-purpose respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and improved rest protocols to minimise exposure. The study underscores the importance of comprehensive health monitoring programs for firefighters to mitigate long-term health risks.
Development of Low-Resistance Coastal Stow Net Using Numerical Analysis and Model Experiments
Authors: Park Sua , Lee Jihoon , Park Minseo , Cho Daeyeon
Published: October 2024

In coastal stow net fishing, the heavy weight of a typical anchor (750–1000 kg) can increase the risk of capsizing the boat and crew member injury during hoisting operations. Thus, to prevent these accidents, a reduction in the anchor weight is required. One strategy to achieve this is to reduce the resistance force of the fishing gear used, which would allow lighter anchors to be employed. This requires the accurate estimation of the resistance force for various gear designs. Therefore, the resistance force and shape during the operation of two representative types of coastal stow nets currently employed in the Korean coastal stow net fishing industry were investigated using simulations and modeling experiments. The modeled fishing gear was divided into four sections according to the mesh size. Based on the results, the twine thickness was reduced in order to target areas of the gear where the greatest resistance was observed, while the front part of the gear was redesigned to prevent the front of the net from being pushed back into a suboptimal shape. The proposed low-resistance fishing gear has the potential to improve occupational safety in the coastal stow net fishing industry.
Edible Insects: Consumption, Perceptions, Culture and Tradition Among Adult Citizens from 14 Countries
Authors: Guiné Raquel P. F. , Florença Sofia G. , Costa Cristina A. , Correia Paula M. R. , Cruz-Lopes Luísa , Esteves Bruno , Ferreira Manuela , Fragata Anabela , Cardoso Ana P. , Campos Sofia , Anjos Ofélia , Boustani Nada M. , Bartkiene Elena , Chuck-Hernández Cristina , Djekic Ilija , Tarcea Monica , Sarić Marijana Matek , Kruma Zanda , Korzeniowska Malgorzata , Papageorgiou Maria , Árias Leticia González , Černelič-Bizjak Maša , Damarli Emel , Ferreira Vanessa , Bayraktaroğlu Emre , Arpa Fatmanur Ozyurek
Published: October 2024

Although edible insects (EIs) are encouraged as a sustainable source of protein, their consumption is not as generalised as other types of food that are internationally accepted. While in some regions of the world, EIs are part of the gastronomic and cultural traditions, in other regions, people are not so receptive to this type of food, and some people even express some disgust towards it. Hence, this research focused on the habits of the participants regarding the consumption of insects as well as their perceptions about EIs being or not a part of the local culture or gastronomic patrimony. A questionnaire survey was implemented in fourteen countries (Brazil, Croatia, Greece, Latvia, Lebanon, Lithuania, Mexico, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain, and Turkey), and globally, 7222 adult participants responded to the questionnaire. SPSS software (version 28) was used to process the data and carry out chi-square tests and Factor Analyses (FA). The obtained results showed significant differences between countries for all the questions included in the survey, either those regarding the habits of the participants or their opinions about the facts linked with EI tradition or cultural aspects. It was found that participants from Mexico consume EIs more than in all other countries and that strong motivations that would lead to consumption among those who do not consume include curiosity and food shortage. The solution obtained with FA considering the ten statements of the scale consisted of two factors: F1—Culture and Tradition of EIs (α = 0.675) and F2—Acceptance of EIs (α = 0.614). In conclusion, the consumption of EIs and the perceptions of people are highly variable according to geographic location and cultural environment.