bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case Report: Two Case Reports of Pulmonary Hypertension after mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Sullivan Robert D. , Shults Nataliia V. , Suzuki Yuichiro J.
Published: September 2023

Background: We herein report two cases of sudden onset symptomatic pulmonary hypertension after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination. Case Summary: Pulmonary hypertension in previously healthy adult males occurred within three weeks of receiving the second dose of the Pfizer (BNT162b2) mRNA COVID-19 vaccine from different lots. Both patients experienced a sudden onset of severe fatigue and dyspnea on exertion with negative severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. The diagnosis was made by serial transthoracic echocardiography in the first case and by both transthoracic echocardiography and right heart catheterization in the second. Both cases resulted in functional limitations and likely permanent organ damage. No evidence of pulmonary emboli was detected in either case. Discussion: Pulmonary hypertension is a serious disease characterized by damage to lung vasculature and restricted blood flow through narrowed arteries from the right to left heart. The onset of symptoms is typically insidious, progressive and incurable, leading to right heart failure and premature death. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies pulmonary hypertension into five categories and recently re-defined it as a resting mean pulmonary artery pressure greater than 20 mmHg. Sudden onset pulmonary hypertension would only be expected in the settings of surgical pneumonectomy or massive pulmonary emboli with compromise of at least 50% of the lung vasculature. We present here two novel cases of sudden onset pulmonary hypertension without evidence of pulmonary emboli, both of which occurred after receiving a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine.
Reinforcement Learning-Based Low-Altitude Path Planning for UAS Swarm in Diverse Threat Environments
Authors: Hu Jinwen , Fan Liyuan , Lei Yifei , Xu Zhao , Fu Wenxing , Xu Gang
Published: September 2023

Unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) with autonomous maneuvering decision capabilities are expected to play a key role in future unmanned systems applications. While reinforcement learning has proven successful in solving UAS path planning problems in simple urban environments, it remains under-researched for some complex mountain environments. In this paper, the path planning of UAS swarm for the low-altitude rapid traverse in diverse environments is studied when facing the threats of complex terrain, radars and swarm failure. First, a UAS swarm radar detection probability is built up for evaluating the radar detection threat by a networked radar system, where the detection probability of a UAS swarm is equated to a single UAS with appropriate position and radar cross section named as the swarm virtual leader. Second, a reinforcement learning based path planning method is proposed to seek the optimal path for the swarm virtual leader which balances instantaneous reward, including detection probability and path constraints with terminal reward, including normal rate. Third, a formation optimization strategy is designed to further reduce the threat of radar detection through dynamically adjusting the formation geometry. Final, simulations in the complex environment have been carried out to evaluate the performance of the proposed method, where the path quality, task success rate and normal rate are counted as the performance indicators.
On Solutions of the Third-Order Ordinary Differential Equations of Emden-Fowler Type
Authors: Sadyrbaev Felix
Published: September 2023

For a linear ordinary differential equation (ODE in short) of the third order, results are presented that supplement the theory of conjugate points and extremal solutions by W. Leighton, Z. Nehari, M. Hanan. It is especially noted the sensitivity of solutions to the initial data, which makes their numerical study difficult. Similar results were obtained for the third-order nonlinear equations of the Emden-Fowler type.
The Effect of the Digital Economy on the Employment Structure in China
Authors: Zhao Yantong , Said Rusmawati
Published: September 2023

The digital economy’s influence on society and the traditional economy is deepening, owing to the wide application of digital technology in production and life. The question of how the digital economy affects the employment structure has become a hot issue to discuss. To explore the impact of the digital economy on the labour structure, this paper selected China’s thirty-one provincial panel data between 2013 and 2020 and utilized the static panel model. On the whole, the proportion of employment in the secondary sector to the total employment rate is declining with the development of the digital economy. The proportion of employment in the tertiary sector to the total employment has increased due to enhancement in the degrees of development in the digital economy. From the perspective of different regions, in the eastern and middle part, improvement in the digital economy has reduced the proportion of employment in the primary sectors to the total employment rate while increasing the proportion of employment in the tertiary sector to the total employment rate and optimizing the industrial structure. Employment in the manufacturing and construction industries in the secondary sector is significantly negatively affected by the development of the digital economy. In addition, the mining industry and utility employment (Production and Supply of Gas, Heat, Water, and Electricity) are not significantly affected by the progress of the digital economy.
Psychological Distress in Young Chilean Adults Exposed to Parental Alienating Behaviors during Childhood/Adolescence
Authors: Portilla-Saavedra Diego , Pinto-Cortez Cristián , Moya-Vergara Rodrigo
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to analyze the psychological distress of young adults exposed to alienating behaviors during childhood/adolescence. Four hundred and sixteen adults responded to the online survey. A brief sociodemographic questionnaire, the Brief Symptom Scale, and a questionnaire on adverse childhood experiences were included. The analyses revealed that individuals who experienced one or more alienating behaviors exhibited higher levels of anxiety, depression, somatization, and overall psychological distress. Furthermore, even after controlling for the effect of other adverse childhood experiences, alienating behaviors had a significant impact on psychological distress in adulthood. This highlights an understudied aspect of alienating behaviors, i.e., their conjunction or parallelism with other adverse childhood experiences.
VR Drumming Pedagogy: Action Observation, Virtual Co-Embodiment, and Development of Drumming “Halvatar”
Authors: Pinkl James , Cohen Michael
Published: September 2023

Virtual Co-embodiment (vc) is a relatively new field of VR, enabling a user to share control of an avatar with other users or entities. According to a recent study, vc was shown to have the highest motor skill learning efficiency out of three VR-based methods. This contribution expands on these findings, as well as previous work relating to Action Observation (ao) and drumming, to realize a new concept to teach drumming. Users “duet” with an exemplar half in a virtual scene with concurrent feedback to learn rudiments and polyrhythms. We call this puppet avatar controlled by both a user and separate processes a “halvatar”. The development is based on body-part-segmented vc techniques and uses programmed animation, electromechanical drum strike detection, and optical bimanual hand-tracking informed by head-tracking. A pilot study was conducted with primarily non-musicians showing the potential effectiveness of this tool and approach.
A Multimodal User-Adaptive Recommender System
Authors: Torres Nicolás
Published: September 2023

Traditional recommendation systems have predominantly relied on user-provided ratings as explicit input. Concurrently, visually aware recommender systems harness inherent visual cues within data to decode item characteristics and deduce user preferences. However, the untapped potential of incorporating item images into the recommendation process warrants investigation. This paper introduces an original convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture that leverages multimodal information, connecting user ratings with product images to enhance item recommendations. A central innovation of the proposed model is the User-Adaptive Filtering Module, a dynamic component that utilizes user profiles to generate personalized filters. Through meticulous visual influence analysis, the effectiveness of these filters is demonstrated. Furthermore, experimental results underscore the competitive performance of the approach compared to traditional collaborative filtering methods, thereby offering a promising avenue for personalized recommendations. This approach capitalizes on user adaptation patterns, enhancing the understanding of user preferences and visual attributes.
A Passive Channel Measurement and Analysis Based on a 5G Commercial Network in V2I Communications
Authors: Chen Chen , Fei Dan , Zheng Peng , Ai Bo
Published: September 2023

To acquire accurate channel characteristics for 5G New Radio (NR) vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communications, in this paper, we propose a 5G passive channel measurement platform based on software defined radio devices and 5G user equipment. Different from active measurement platforms, the proposed measurement platform only requires a receiver and the channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) periodically transmitted by the 5G commercial base stations is used as the measurement waveform. The channel impulse response can be computed based on the CSI-RS signal extracted from the received waveform and the standard CSI-RS signal generated according to the signaling information. By using the proposed 5G passive channel measurement platform, we carry out wireless channel measurement for V2I communications in typical urban scenarios. Further, based on the measurement, the small-scale channel fading characteristics including the power delay profile, the number of multipaths, the delay spread of multipaths, and the Ricean K-factor are analyzed.
Improved LSTM Neural Network-Assisted Combined Vehicle-Mounted GNSS/SINS Navigation and Positioning Algorithm
Authors: Song Lijun , Xu Peiyu , He Xing , Li Yunlong , Hou Jiajie , Feng Haoyu
Published: September 2023

Aiming at the problem of the combined navigation system of on-board GNSS (global navigation satellite system)/SINS (strapdown inertial navigation system), the accuracy of the combined navigation system decreases due to the dispersion of the SINS over time and under the condition of No GNSS signals. An improved LSTM (long short-term memory) neural network in No GNSS signal conditions is proposed to assist the combination of navigation data and the positioning algorithm. When the GNSS signal is normal input, the current on-board combination of the navigation module’s output sensor data information is used for training to improve the LSTM algorithm and to establish the incremental output of the GNSS position of the mapping of the different weights. In No GNSS signal conditions, using the improved LSTM algorithm can improve the combination of navigation and positioning algorithms. Under No GNSS signal conditions, the improved LSTM training model is used to predict the dynamics of SINS information component data. Under No GNSS signal conditions, the combined navigation filtering design is completed, and the error correction of SINS navigation and positioning information is carried out to obtain a more accurate combination of navigation and positioning system accuracy. It can be seen through the actual test experiment using a sports car in the two trajectories under the conditions of No GNSS signals that the proposed algorithm can be compared with the LSTM algorithm. In testing road sections, the proposed algorithm, when compared with the LSTM algorithm to obtain the northward position that the mean square errors were improved by 55.63% and 76.64%, and the eastward position mean square errors were improved by 43.42% and 54.67%. In a straight-line trajectory, improving the effect’s navigation and positioning accuracy and reliability is significant.
Enhanced Humidification–Dehumidification (HDH) Systems for Sustainable Water Desalination
Authors: Luberti Mauro , Capocelli Mauro
Published: September 2023

Water scarcity is a pressing global issue driving the need for efficient and sustainable water reuse and desalination technologies. In the last two decades, humidification–dehumidification (HDH) has emerged as a promising method for small-scale and decentralized systems. This paper presents a comprehensive review of recent scientific literature highlighting key advancements, challenges, and potential future directions of HDH research. Because the HDH process suffers from low heat and mass transfer, as well as thermodynamic limitations due to the mild operating conditions, this work indicates three main strategies for HDH enhancement: (1) Advanced Heat and Mass Transfer Techniques, (2) Integration with Other Technologies, and (3) Optimization of System Operative Conditions. Particularly for advanced HDH systems, the reference GOR values exceed 3, and certain studies have demonstrated the potential to achieve even higher values, approaching 10. In terms of recovery ratio, there appear to be no significant process constraints, as recycling the brine prepared in innovative schemes can surpass values of 50%. Considering electricity costs, the reference range falls between 1 and 3 kWh m–3. Notably, multi-stage processes and system couplings can lead to increased pressure drops and, consequently, higher electricity costs. Although consistent data are lacking, a baseline SEC reference value is approximately 360 kJ kg–1, corresponding to 100 kWh m–3. For comparable SEC data, it is advisable to incorporate both thermal and electric inputs, using a reference power plant efficiency of 0.4 in converting thermal duty to electrical power. When considering the utilization of low-temperature solar and waste heat, the proposed exergy-based comparison of the process is vital; this perspective reveals that a low-carbon HDH desalination domain, with II-law efficiencies surpassing 0.10, can be achieved.
Assessing the Influence of Fracture Networks on Gas-Based Enhanced Oil Recovery Methods
Authors: Kharrat Riyaz , Alalim Nouri , Ott Holger
Published: September 2023

Numerous reservoirs that play a significant role in worldwide petroleum production and reserves contain fractures. Typically, the fractures must form a connected network for a reservoir to be classified as naturally fractured. Characterizing the reservoir with a focus on its fracture network is crucial for modeling and predicting production performance. To simplify the solution, dual-continuum modeling techniques are commonly employed. However, to use continuum-scale approaches, properties such as the average aperture, permeability, and matrix fracture interaction parameters must be assigned, making it necessary to improve the fracture depiction and modeling methods. This study investigated a fractured reservoir with a low matrix permeability and a well-connected fracture network. The focus was on the impact of the hierarchical fracture network on the production performance of gas-based enhanced oil recovery methods. The discrete fracture network (DFN) model was utilized to create comprehensive two-dimensional models for three processes: gas injection (GI), water alternating gas (WAG), and foam-assisted water alternating gas (FAWAG). Moreover, dimensionless numbers were employed to establish connections between properties across the entire fracture hierarchy, spanning from minor to major fractures and encompassing the fracture intensity. The results indicate that the FAWAG process was more sensitive to fracture types and networks than the WAG and GI processes. Hence, the sensitivity of the individual EOR method to the fracture network requires a respective depth of description of the fracture network. However, other factors, such as reservoir fluid properties and fracture properties, might influence the recovery when the minor fracture networks are excluded. This study determined that among the enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques examined, the significance of the hierarchical depth of fracture networks diminished as the ratio of major (primary fracture) aperture to the aperture of medium and minor fractures increased. Additionally, the impact of the assisted-gravity drainage method was greater with increased reservoir height; however, as the intensity ratio increased, the relative importance of the medium and minor fracture networks decreased.
A Method for the Prediction of Favorable Sites on Faults That Adjust Outside-of-Source Hydrocarbon Accumulations to High-Slope Areas: A Case of the Zhaobei Fault in Qikou Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, Eastern China
Authors: Yuan Hongqi , Zhao Lihua , Zhang Yaxiong , Wu Yunong , Yu Yinghua
Published: September 2023

In order to study the distribution pattern of hydrocarbons in the shallow layer of the slope area outside of the source in the hydrocarbon-bearing basin, we built a method to predict the favorable site of the fault that adjusts hydrocarbon to the shallow layer in the slope area outside of the source based on the investigation of the mechanism of hydrocarbon adjustment along a conduit fault to a shallow layer. The predicted favorable site is found to be the overlapping area of three sites: the locations of the sand carrier with a lateral supply of hydrocarbon, the transport sites of conduit faults, and the hydrocarbon leakage parts of overlying regional mudstone seal rock. We applied the method in a case study of the favorable sites of the Zhaobei Fault that adjust the hydrocarbon from the lower sub-member within the first member of Shahejie Formation (Es1L) to the shallow Guantao Formation in the Qikou Sag of Bohai Bay Basin. Our prediction shows that the favorable sites are mostly located in the middle part of the Zhaobei Fault with very limited distribution in the east, which are conducive to the oil and gas supplied by the underlying sand carrier in the Es1L Formation to convergence and accumulation in the shallow Guantao Formation. This result is consistent with the distribution of the hydrocarbon in the Guantao Formation located in the middle parts of the Zhaobei Fault, proving that this method is feasible for the prediction of the favorable sites of the fault that adjust hydrocarbon to the shallow layer in the slope area outside of source.
Factors Influencing the Real-World Electricity Consumption of Electric Motorcycles
Authors: Kusalaphirom Triluck , Satiennam Thaned , Satiennam Wichuda
Published: September 2023

Currently, studies regarding the factors influencing the real-world electricity consumption of electric motorcycles are lacking. The objective of this study was to examine the factors influencing the real-world electricity consumption of electric motorcycles when driving along an uncongested road network. This study developed an onboard measurement device to collect on-road data, including instant speed data and electricity consumption, from the test electric motorcycle while it was driving on a real-world road. Overall, 105 participants (n = 105) drove the test motorcycle along the uncongested urban road network. Multiple linear regression analysis was applied to explore the effect of influencing variables on the electricity consumption of electric motorcycles. The analysis results revealed that the rider’s weight and average running speed positively influenced electricity consumption, whereas decelerating time negatively influenced electricity consumption. Noticeably, the rider’s weight affected electricity consumption more than other factors. The lightweighting of electric motorcycles was mainly recommended to lower electricity consumption. Subsequently, CO2 emissions from electricity generation could be reduced.
Evolutionary Analysis of the Solar Photovoltaic Products Trade Network in Belt and Road Initiative Countries from an Economic Perspective
Authors: Hu Liusuo , Hu Jian , Huang Weilung
Published: September 2023

Against the backdrop of global energy transition and the imperative for sustainable development, the trade dynamics of solar photovoltaic (PV) products among “Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)” countries gained momentum. This study investigates the evolving trade patterns of PV products within BRI nations, alongside the underlying determinants. The paper constructs and analyzes a solar PV product trade network, elucidating evolutionary trends, structural complexities, and clusters. A novel centrality influence model explores influencing factors across five dimensions. Methodologically, trade data, the “Five Connectivity” framework, and socio-economic indicators from 2001 to 2022 across 65 BRI countries underpin the study. Empirical insights reveal a robust PV product trade network with density exceeding 0.4 and reciprocity surpassing 0.38. China’s rising centrality, reflected in a weighted degree surge from 14.38 to 79.37 since 2011, signifies its consolidation within the network. Results show sustained high density and reciprocity in the PV trade network, signaling robust communication among BRI countries. China’s centrality in the network has consistently grown since 2011. Trade cluster analysis reveals isolated segments predominant, depicting emerging economies with limited photovoltaic exchanges, mainly export-focused. The study highlights the pivotal role of “Five Connectivity” dimensions in promoting PV trade, while financial connectivity’s impact remains modest. The emergence of PV product centers challenges traditional energy hubs, prompting the need for new energy trading paradigms and robust financial hubs.
Thermogravimetric Pyrolysis Behavior and Kinetic Study of Two Different Organic-Rich Mudstones via Multiple Kinetic Methods
Authors: Li Yaoyu , Zhou Shixin , Li Jing , Sun Zexiang , Pang Wenjun
Published: September 2023

Two representative organic-rich mudstones from the Middle Permian (MP) and the Upper Carboniferous (UC) around the Fukang Depression in the Junggar Basin were selected to study and compare the pyrolysis behavior and kinetics. The MP and UC were described as type I and type II kerogen, respectively. The FTIR and XRD results revealed that the MP contains carbonates and different clay minerals compared to the UC. Peak deconvolution was used for the UC to delineate the pyrolysis process to better understand and compare the similarities and differences in the pyrolysis kinetics of the two mudstones. In addition, the Coats-Redfern method was employed to further differentiate the reaction stages based on the differences in the reaction models during pyrolysis. The kinetic results revealed that the activation energy, pre-exponential factors, and reaction models of the two mudstones have some similarities and differences. Combined with the analysis of the pyrolysis volatiles, the UC sample can release more CH4, CO, CO2, and aromatic hydrocarbon compounds at high temperatures, indicating that the UC has more oxygen-containing functional groups and aromatics, while the MP has more aliphatics. Through the above studies, the pyrolysis kinetics and mechanism of two organic-rich rocks could be clarified, guiding their development and efficient utilization.
Privacy-Preserving Fleet-Wide Learning of Wind Turbine Conditions with Federated Learning
Authors: Jenkel Lorin , Jonas Stefan , Meyer Angela
Published: September 2023

A wealth of data is constantly being collected by manufacturers from their wind turbine fleets. And yet, a lack of data access and sharing impedes exploiting the full potential of the data. Our study presents a privacy-preserving machine learning approach for fleet-wide learning of condition information without sharing any data locally stored on the wind turbines. We show that through federated fleet-wide learning, turbines with little or no representative training data can benefit from accuracy gains from improved normal behavior models. Customizing the global federated model to individual turbines yields the highest fault detection accuracy in cases where the monitored target variable is distributed heterogeneously across the fleet. We demonstrate this for bearing temperatures, a target variable whose normal behavior can vary widely depending on the turbine. We show that no member of the fleet is affected by a degradation in model accuracy by participating in the collaborative learning procedure, resulting in superior performance of the federated learning strategy in our case studies. Distributed learning increases the normal behavior model training times by about a factor of ten due to increased communication overhead and slower model convergence.
Impact of Product Diversification on the Economic Sustainability of Second-Generation Ethanol Biorefineries: A Critical Review
Authors: Shibukawa Vinícius P. , Ramos Lucas , Cruz-Santos Mónica M. , Prado Carina A. , Jofre Fanny M. , de Arruda Gabriel L. , da Silva Silvio S. , Mussatto Solange I. , dos Santos Júlio C.
Published: September 2023

The replacement of fossil-based products with renewable alternatives is today a major research topic. Biofuels, such as second-generation ethanol, offer a promising way to overcome dependence on fossil fuels. However, second-generation biorefineries still face bottlenecks that hinder their economic sustainability. These include challenges in pretreatment (formation of inhibitors and high costs of chemicals) and hydrolysis (high enzyme costs and low solid content) and maximizing the utilization of biomass components. To achieve economic sustainability, biorefineries can adopt approaches such as integrating first and second generation (1G and 2G) technologies, using different production alternatives, or diversifying the product portfolio. This last alternative could include the simultaneous production of biomaterials, building blocks, and others from all fractions of the materials, favoring biorefinery profitability. Techno-economic assessment plays a crucial role in assessing the economic feasibility of these approaches and provides important information about the process. This article discusses how product diversification in cellulosic biorefineries enhances their economic sustainability, based on simulation techniques and techno-economic analysis, with a comprehensive and critical review of current possibilities and future trends. The information discussed can inform stakeholders about investing in 2G ethanol biorefineries, including strategies, associated risks, and profitability, allowing better planning of different options of future ventures.
High Step-Up Boost-Cuk-Forward Converter with Reduced Switch Voltage Stress and Ripple-Free Input Current
Authors: Heidari Reza , Ghanbari Mohammad Ali , Adib Ehsan , Jeong Kwang-Il , Ahn Jin-Woo
Published: September 2023

A new combined boost-Cuk-forward (CBCF) converter with ripple-free input current and low switch voltage stress is proposed for high step-up applications. Two coupled inductors are applied to achieve low switch voltage stress as well as balanced dc-link voltages, wherein the former is placed in series with the boost diode, and the latter is formed as a forward converter. Because these inductors are coupled with the output Cuk inductor, a ripple-free input current is also attained. The proposed converter is run at discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) by applying a low output-side Cuk inductance to reduce the switching loss by providing a ZCS turn-on of MOSFET and removing the diode reverse recovery current. In addition, the proposed converter does not have a problem with ground leakage current. The practical results verify the performance and effectiveness of the proposed CBCF high step-up converter.
Exploring the Influence of Innovation and Technology on Climate Change
Authors: Apostu Simona Andreea , Nichita Elena Mirela , Manea Cristina Lidia , Irimescu Alina Mihaela , Vulpoi Marcel
Published: September 2023

Considering the negative effect of anthropological activities on climate in recent decades, all countries entailed a universal commitment to fight against climate change by boosting innovation and introducing new technologies. In this context, our paper aimed to investigate the impact of innovation input in terms of research and development (R&D) costs and technology expressed as technical equipment and machinery (TEM) on the reported greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in chemical industry companies in five Central and Eastern European countries. This study employed a panel regression model with fixed effects and covered data from 2015 to 2020. The empirical results emphasize a negative relationship between R&D costs and GHG emissions, indicating the companies’ commitment to developing innovative solutions that contribute to lower destructive emissions. Additionally, the findings related to the influence of TEM on GHG emissions reveal a positive impact, highlighting the need to improve manufacturing technologies. The practical implications of our findings can be meaningful for both policymakers and businesses operating in the chemical industry in developing countries. Policymakers should offer financial incentives to support research and investments in clean technologies, while businesses should prioritise such investments to mitigate GHG emissions.
Exploring SGLT-2 Inhibitors: Benefits beyond the Glucose-Lowering Effect—What Is New in 2023?
Authors: Young Clipper F. , Farnoudi Neeka , Chen Jenny , Shubrook Jay H.
Published: September 2023

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors were once known as a class of glycemic-lowering agents to treat type 2 diabetes. As the evolving evidence from recent cardiorenal trials on these agents has shown—e.g., EMPA-REG OUTCOME, DECLARE-TIMI 58, CANVAS Program, DAPA-CKD—disclosing their benefits beyond glycemic management, SGLT-2 inhibitors have stimulated a shift in the management of T2DM and its comorbidities, specifically preventing cardiovascular events in people with ASCVD, preventing heart failure hospitalizations, and delaying the progression of chronic kidney disease. As a result, their usage beyond glycemic management has been included in clinical practice guidelines. Although SGLT-2 inhibitors have shown promising results in cardiorenal outcomes, patients have not had equal access to these agents, at least in the United States, suggesting a systemic issue of health inequity. This review article explores the mechanisms by which cardiorenal benefits are offered, the results of the landmark clinical trials for these agents, and their place in therapy.
Prediction of Forest Fire Occurrence in Southwestern China
Authors: Jing Xiaodong , Zhang Donghui , Li Xusheng , Zhang Wanchang , Zhang Zhijie
Published: September 2023

Southwestern China is an area heavily affected by forest fires, having a complex combination of fire sources and a high degree of human interference. The region is characterized by karst topography and a mixture of agricultural and forested areas, as well as diverse and dynamic mountainous terrain. Analyzing the driving factors behind forest fire occurrences in this area and conducting fire risk zoning are of significant importance in terms of implementing effective forest fire management. The Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) model offers advantages in terms of efficiency, low memory usage, accuracy, scalability, and robustness, making it a powerful predictive algorithm that can handle large-scale data and complex problems. In this study, we used nearly 20 years of forest fire data in Southwestern China as the data source. Using mathematical statistics and kernel density analysis, we studied the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of forest fires in Southwestern China. Considering 16 variables, including climate, vegetation, human factors, and topography, we employed the LightGBM model to predict and zone forest fire occurrences in Southwestern China. The results indicated the following conclusions: (i) Forest fires in Southwestern China are primarily concentrated in certain areas of Sichuan Province (such as Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture and Panzhihua City), Guizhou Province (such as Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture), Yunnan Province (such as Puer City, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, and Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture), and Chongqing Municipality. (ii) In terms of seasonality, forest fires are most frequent during the spring and winter, followed by the autumn and summer. (iii) The LightGBM forest fire prediction model yielded good results, having a training set accuracy of 83.088080%, a precision of 81.272437%, a recall of 88.760399%, an F1 score of 84.851539%, and an AUC of 91.317430%. The testing set accuracy was 79.987694%, precision was 78.541074%, recall was 85.978470%, F1 score was 82.091662%, and AUC was 87.977684%. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the LightGBM model in predicting forest fires in Southwest China, providing valuable insights regarding forest fire management and prevention efforts in the area.
Trends in Brazil’s Forestry Education—Part 2: Mismatch between Training and Forest Sector Demands
Authors: Hakamada Rodrigo , Frosini de Barros Ferraz Silvio , Sulbaran-Rangel Belkis
Published: September 2023

This study used four surveys to capture perceptions of the current scenario of the forest sector and on the trends of the sector regarding human resources. The aim was to investigate the skills entailed by the profession from the viewpoint of professionals, taking into account job offers and the opinion of new college graduates. All surveys were analyzed using proportions and mean estimates. The first survey on forest organizations indicated a shortage of qualified professionals for the job market as well as a lack of training in behavioral skills (soft skills), pointed out by 100% of the organizations surveyed. We identified a gap between the importance given to certain skills and the performance of new college graduates in their academic training. Behavioral skills, such as communication, problem solving, leadership, and proactivity were considered of high importance; nevertheless, new graduates usually lacked these soft skills. In addition, a gap was identified in areas of knowledge not traditionally addressed in forest-engineering programs, such as REDD+ mechanisms, carbon market, and landscape management. The third and fourth surveys point to a convergence between job requirements from candidates and the responses of new graduates about the skills they consider important for their professional career. A three-line discussion is suggested, encompassing extension activities and professional experience in the academic world, bringing academia closer to job-market requirements, and including curriculum changes to follow current trends.
Digital vs. Analog Learning—Two Content-Similar Interventions and Learning Outcomes
Authors: Fleissner-Martin Juliane , Bogner Franz X. , Paul Jürgen
Published: September 2023

The digitization of classrooms has enormously changed teaching during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The rapid introduction of tablet classes subsequently raised questions about potential learning outputs, as only a few studies had produced quite contradicting outcomes. Consequently, our study was set up to monitor cognitive learning outcomes of conventional and digital teaching interventions by explicitly paying attention to short- and long-term knowledge retention rates. Both modules covered the very same classroom content in focusing on the curricular content of the forest ecosystem. Subjects were eighth-graders from seven Bavarian secondary schools (analog: n = 74; digital: n = 225). We analyzed the knowledge gained by applying a multiple-choice questionnaire (online, 25 items) in a pre–post-retention design. For the statistical analyses SPSS was used, and a Rasch analysis was based on the ACERQuest software (Version 2.1). The Rasch calibration of the ad hoc knowledge items assured solid scores (Rel = 0.72). Both interventions significantly increased knowledge (analog and digital: p < 0.001; Cohen’s d: danalog = 0.59, ddigital = 0.42) compared to the pre-test scores. Even after 6–9 weeks, there was no significant drop in the acquired knowledge scores (analog: p = 0.619; digital: p = 0.092) compared to the immediate post-test observed. Furthermore, there was no significant difference between the knowledge levels reached after both interventions. The knowledge scores showed typical learning profiles of earlier studies including its consistency even after several weeks. Since no significant differences appeared for the knowledge gain of both groups, the kind of teaching seemingly does not originate any influence independent of participation in the digital or analog module. The same seems to be valid for notebook entry options.
Physicochemical and Organoleptic Differences in Chardonnay Chilean Wines after Ethanol Reduction Practises: Pre-Fermentative Water Addition or Metschnikowia pulcherrima
Authors: Ruiz-de-Villa Candela , Urrutia-Becerra Luis , Jara Carla , Gil i Cortiella Mariona , Canals Joan Miquel , Mas Albert , Reguant Cristina , Rozès Nicolas
Published: September 2023

Climate change is posing a major challenge to the wine industry, with rising alcohol levels emerging as an issue of concern affecting quality, economics and health. This study explores two methods to reduce alcohol content in Chardonnay wines from Chile. Firstly, 5% and 10% of water was added to grape must. Secondly, the sequential inoculation of Metschnikowia pulcherrima with Saccharomyces cerevisiae was examined. The main objectives were to assess the efficacy of these treatments in reducing alcohol levels and their impact on organoleptic properties. Our findings revealed that the presence of M. pulcherrima in winery conditions was less effective in reducing ethanol. Nevertheless, wines resulting from this treatment exhibited an interesting composition with distinct sensory profiles. Furthermore, the Sc-5% W condition displayed promising results by reducing ethanol content by 0.47% (v/v), with less significant changes in the sensory profile. Although the Sc-10% W wines showed a more substantial ethanol reduction of 1.73% (v/v), they exhibited a decreasing trend in volatile compounds and polysaccharides, ultimately being perceived as less complex in sensory analysis and not being preferred by consumers. This research contributes to understanding how these approaches affect the alcohol content and sensory attributes of white wines and is fundamental to the sustainability of the sector and the ability of the sector to recover from climate challenges.
Identification Methodology for Chemical Warehouses Dealing with Flammable Substances Capable of Causing Firewater Pollution
Authors: Kátai-Urbán Maxim , Bíró Tibor , Kátai-Urbán Lajos , Varga Ferenc , Cimer Zsolt
Published: September 2023

Major accidents involving flammable substances can lead to significant environmental damage. The operators of chemical warehouses—in order to prevent and mitigate harmful environmental impacts—based on fire prevention strategies should apply “firewater pollution prevention” (FPP) measures. The identification of affected warehouses already in operation is an important law enforcement task. Therefore, the authors—based on the assessment of firewater run-off scenarios—propose a simple and easy-to-use dangerous establishment identification procedure and methodology based on event tree analysis and indexing preliminary risk analysis approaches. Two independent expert groups validated—in the case of 10 facilities—the index components of the approach. The testing of the applicability of the approach took place in parallel with the analyses of the Hungarian operator’s practice. The research results—covering the inspection of 24 facilities—can assist the operators in the effective and unified implementation of FPP measures. In the case of 14 facilities, it was necessary to introduce FPP measures, which highlight the need to improve the law enforcement compliance of identified operators. The investigation results can also contribute to increases in the fire and environmental safety performance of chemical warehouses, which ensures a higher level of environmental protection and people’s health near chemical warehouses.
Flavor Characterization of Traditional Fermented Soybean Pastes from Northeast China and Korea
Authors: Zhao Shanshan , Sai Yuhang , Liu Wanting , Zhao Huiwen , Bai Xue , Song Wanying , Zheng Yan , Yue Xiqing
Published: September 2023

This study compares the physicochemical properties, taste, and volatile compounds of Northeastern Chinese dajiang (C) and Korean doenjang (K) and distinguishes the discriminant volatile metabolites between them. The result revealed that compared to group C, group K exhibited more similar physicochemical properties and had lower pH, moisture, and amino acid nitrogen content, while demonstrating higher titratable acidity, salt content, and reduced sugar content. The electronic tongue analysis showed that the saltiness and umami of soybean pastes had high response values, enabling clear differentiation of the overall taste between the two types of soybean pastes. A total of 71 volatile substances from the soybean pastes were identified through solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Furthermore, orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis revealed 19 volatile compounds as differentially flavored metabolites. Our study provides a basis for explaining the differences in flavor difference of Northeastern Chinese dajiang and Korean doenjang from the perspective of volatile metabolites.
Proteomic Identification and Characterization of Collagen from Bactrian Camel (Camelus bactrianus) Hoof
Authors: Wang Yingli , Song Le , Guo Chengcheng , Ji Rimutu
Published: September 2023

With the development of camel-derived food and pharmaceutical cosmetics, camel hoof, as a unique by-product of the camel industry, has gradually attracted the attention of scientific researchers in the fields of nutrition, health care, and biomaterial development. In this study, the protein composition and collagen type of Bactrian camel hoof collagen extract (CHC) were analyzed by LC-MS/MS, and the functional properties of CHC were further investigated, including its rheological characteristics, emulsification and emulsion stability, and hygroscopicity and humectancy. Proteomic identification confirmed that CHC had 13 collagen subunits, dominated by type I collagen (α1, α2), with molecular weights mainly in the 100–200 KDa range and a pI of 7.48. An amino acid study of CHC revealed that it carried the standard amino acid profile of type I collagen and was abundant in Gly, Pro, Glu, Ala, and Arg. Additionally, studies using circular dichroism spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that CHC contains a collagen-like triple helix structure that is stable and intact. Different concentrations of CHC solutions showed shear-thinning flow behavior. Its tan δ did not differ much with increasing concentration. The CHC has good emulsifying ability and stability, humectancy, and hygroscopicity. This study provides a basis for utilizing and developing Bactrian camel hoof collagen as a functional ingredient.
Edible Coatings and Future Trends in Active Food Packaging–Fruits’ and Traditional Sausages’ Shelf Life Increasing
Authors: Nunes Catarina , Silva Mafalda , Farinha Diana , Sales Hélia , Pontes Rita , Nunes João
Published: September 2023

The global food production industry faces environmental concerns exacerbated by substantial food waste. European countries are striving to reduce food waste towards a circular bioeconomy and sustainable development. To address environmental issues and reduce plastic waste, researchers are developing sustainable active packaging systems, including edible packaging made from industry residues. These innovations aim to increase food safety and quality, extend shelf life, and reduce plastic and food waste. Particularly important in the context of the growing demand for fresh and minimally processed fruits, edible coatings have emerged as a potential solution that offers numerous advantages in maintaining fruit quality. In addition to fruit, edible coatings have also been investigated for animal-based foods to meet the demand for high-quality, chemical-free food and extended shelf life. These products globally consumed can be susceptible to the growth of harmful microorganisms and spoilage. One of the main advantages of using edible coatings is their ability to preserve meat quality and freshness by reducing undesirable physicochemical changes, such as color, texture, and moisture loss. Furthermore, edible coatings also contribute to the development of a circular bioeconomy, promoting sustainability in the food industry. This paper reviews the antimicrobial edible coatings investigated in recent years in minimally processed fruits and traditional sausages. It also approaches bionanocomposites as a recently emerged technology with potential application in food quality and safety.
The Chemical Composition of Scaptotrigona mexicana Honey and Propolis Collected in Two Locations: Similarities and Differences
Authors: Gerginova Dessislava , Popova Milena , Chimshirova Ralitsa , Trusheva Boryana , Shanahan Maggie , Guzmán Miguel , Solorzano-Gordillo Erik , López-Roblero Estefhanía , Spivak Marla , Simova Svetlana , Bankova Vassya
Published: September 2023

The chemical composition of stingless bee honey and propolis depends on the plant sources they are derived from, and thus reflects the flora available in the vicinity of the hives, the preferences of the bee species, and the climate (altitude and temperature). To understand the relative influence of these factors, we studied the composition of honey and propolis of the stingless bee Scaptotrigona mexicana. Samples from 24 colonies were analyzed: 12 each from two S. mexicana meliponaries located in the state of Chiapas in southern Mexico, approximately 8.5 km apart, Tuxtla Chico and Cacahoatán. The chemical composition of honey and propolis was studied using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), respectively. The antioxidant activity of propolis was also studied. Chemometric analyses were applied. The Tuxtla Chico honey samples contained higher concentrations of glucose and fructose, while the Cacahoatán samples displayed a rich composition of di- and trisaccharides. These differences can be attributed to the distinct nectar sources utilized by the bees at each location. Propolis compositions in the two locations also demonstrated qualitative differences, indicating a specific choice of resins by the bees. The observed substantial variations in the chemical composition of propolis and honey of S. mexicana from two locations relatively close to each other supports the assumption that bee species cannot be considered the most important factor in determining their chemistry.