bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-Flood Risk Management and Resilience Building Practices: A Case Study
Authors: Munawar Hafiz Suliman , Khan Sara Imran , Anum Numera , Qadir Zakria , Kouzani Abbas Z. , Parvez Mahmud M. A.
Published: May 2021

The study was conducted to assess the post 2010 flood risk management and resilience-building practices in District Layyah, Pakistan. Exploratory research was applied to gain knowledge of flood risk management to embed the disaster risk reduction, mitigation, and adaptation strategies at the local government and community level. Around 200 questionnaires were collected from the four devastated areas/union councils. Primary data from the field uncovered flood risk management practices by organizations, local government, and the community. It highlights resilience-building practices undertaken by the community through rehabilitation, community participation, and local indigenous practices. The role of the District Layyah’s local government and organizations to mitigate the 2010 flood and their contribution towards flood resilience in affected communities was investigated, as no comparable studies were carried out in the riverine belt of District Layyah previously. Moreover, the tangible and non-tangible measures to lessen the vulnerability to floods and improve flood risk governance at a local level were identified. This study makes a valuable contribution in strengthening the resilience building of vulnerable communities by recommending few changes in existing practices concerning flood risk at a local level.
SIW Cavity-Backed Antenna Array Based on Double Slots for mmWave Communications
Authors: Hammu-Mohamed Bilal , Palomares-Caballero Ángel , Segura-Gómez Cleofás , Ruiz Francisco G. , Padilla Pablo
Published: May 2021

This paper presents a cavity-backed antenna array in substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) technology in the millimeter-wave frequency band. The proposed antenna design uses double slots as radiating elements instead of conventional single slots. The double slots allow better control in the design of the operating frequency bands of the cavity-backed antenna. The performance of the cavity-backed antennas with single and double slots is compared to assess the enhanced behavior of the double slots. As a proof of concept, a 2 × 2 array of cavity-backed antennas is designed, manufactured, and measured. Each cavity-backed antenna contains 2 × 2 double slots; thus, a 4 × 4 antenna array is considered. The experimental operating frequency band of the proposed antenna array ranges from 35.4 to 37 GHz. There is a good agreement between the simulated and measured results. The measured gain is around 17 dBi in the whole operating frequency band with a 75% total antenna efficiency.
Challenges Using Droplet Digital PCR for Environmental Samples
Authors: Kokkoris Vasilis , Vukicevich Eric , Richards Andrew , Thomsen Corrina , Hart Miranda M.
Published: May 2021

Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) is a method used to detect and quantify nucleic acids even when present in exceptionally low numbers. While it has proven to be valuable for clinical studies, it has failed to be widely adopted for environmental studies but despite some limitations, ddPCR may represent a better option than classical qPCR for environmental samples. Due to the complexity of the chemical and biological composition of environmental samples, protocols tailored to clinical studies are not appropriate, and results are difficult to interpret. We used environmental DNA samples originating from field studies to determine a protocol for environmental samples. Samples included field soils which had been inoculated with the soil fungus Rhizophagus irregularis (environmental positive control), field soils that had not been inoculated and the targeted fungus was not naturally present (environmental negative control), and root samples from both field categories. To control for the effect of soil inhibitors, we also included DNA samples of an organismal control extracted from pure fungal spores (organismal positive control). Finally, we included a no-template control consisting only of the PCR reaction reagents and nuclease free water instead of template DNA. Using original data, we examined which factors contribute to poor resolution in root and soil samples and propose best practices to ensure accuracy and repeatability. Furthermore, we evaluated manual and automatic threshold determination methods and we propose a novel protocol based on multiple controls that is more appropriate for environmental samples.
Forecasting Daily of Surface Ozone Concentration in the Grand Casablanca Region Using Parametric and Nonparametric Statistical Models
Authors: Oufdou Halima , Bellanger Lise , Bergam Amal , Khomsi Kenza
Published: May 2021

Forecasting concentration levels is important for planning atmospheric protection strategies. In this paper, we focus on the daily average surface ozone (O3) concentration with a short-time resolution (one day ahead) in the Grand Casablanca Region of Morocco. The database includes previous day O3 concentrations measured at Jahid station and various meteorological explanatory variables for 3 years (2013 to 2015). Taking into account the multicollinearity problem in the data, adapted statistical models based on parametric (SPLS and Lasso) and nonparametric (CART, Bagging, and RF) models were built and compared using the coefficient of determination and the root mean square error. We conclude that the parametric models predict better than nonparametric ones. Finally, from the explanatory variables stored by the SPLS and Lasso parametric models, we deduce that a very simple linear regression with five variables remains the most appropriate for the available data at Jahid station (R2 = 0.86 and RMSE = 9.60). This resulting model, with few explanatory variables to prevent missing data, has good predictive quality and is easily implementable. It is the first to be built to predict ozone pollution in the Grand Casablanca region of Morocco.
Brominated Flame Retardants in Antarctic Air in the Vicinity of Two All-Year Research Stations
Authors: Bengtson Nash Susan Maria , Wild Seanan , Broomhall Sara , Bohlin-Nizzetto Pernilla
Published: May 2021

Continuous atmospheric sampling was conducted between 2010–2015 at Casey station in Wilkes Land, Antarctica, and throughout 2013 at Troll Station in Dronning Maud Land, Antarctica. Sample extracts were analyzed for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and the naturally converted brominated compound, 2,4,6-Tribromoanisole, to explore regional profiles. This represents the first report of seasonal resolution of PBDEs in the Antarctic atmosphere, and we describe conspicuous differences in the ambient atmospheric concentrations of brominated compounds observed between the two stations. Notably, levels of BDE-47 detected at Troll station were higher than those previously detected in the Antarctic or Southern Ocean region, with a maximum concentration of 7800 fg/m3. Elevated levels of penta-formulation PBDE congeners at Troll coincided with local building activities and subsided in the months following completion of activities. The latter provides important information for managers of National Antarctic Programs for preventing the release of persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic substances in Antarctica.
Developing a Practical Application of the Isometric Squat and Surface Electromyography
Authors: Phillips David Alan , Del Vecchio Angelic Rose , Carroll Kevin , Matthews Evan Lee
Published: May 2021

Electromyography (EMG) is a research tool used in gait analysis, muscle coordination evaluation, clinical evaluation and sports techniques. Electromyography can provide an insight into neural adaptations, cross education effects, bilateral contraction deficiencies, and antagonist activity in exercise-related movements. While there are clear benefits to using EMG in exercise-related professions, accessibility, cost, and difficulty interpreting the data limit its use in strength and clinical settings. We propose a practical EMG assessment using the isometric squat to identify compensatory activation patterns and report early observations. Ten healthy participants were recruited. Participants performed a 2-min isometric handgrip protocol and an isometric squat protocol. The isometric handgrip was used to identify the expected EMG amplitude response solely due to fatigue. There was a significant increase in EMG amplitude after 2 min (p < 0.05), with the relative increase of 95% CI (1.4%; 27.4%). This indicates the relative increase in EMG amplitude expected if the only influence was fatigue in the 2-min protocol. In the isometric squat protocol, we identified a number of different muscle activation compensation strategies with relative EMG amplitude increases outside of this bandwidth. One subject demonstrated a quadricep compensation strategy with a 188% increase in activation, while reducing activation in both the hamstrings and lower back by 12%. Exercise professionals can use this information to design exercise programs specifically targeting the unloaded muscles during the isometric squat.
Neurosensory Rehabilitation and Olfactory Network Recovery in Covid-19-related Olfactory Dysfunction
Authors: Chung Tom Wai-Hin , Zhang Hui , Wong Fergus Kai-Chuen , Sridhar Siddharth , Chan Kwok-Hung , Cheng Vincent Chi-Chung , Yuen Kwok-Yung , Hung Ivan Fan-Ngai , Mak Henry Ka-Fung
Published: May 2021

Non-conductive olfactory dysfunction (OD) is an important extra-pulmonary manifestation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Olfactory bulb (OB) volume loss and olfactory network functional connectivity (FC) defects were identified in two patients suffering from prolonged COVID-19-related OD. One patient received olfactory treatment (OT) by the combination of oral vitamin A and smell training via the novel electronic portable aromatic rehabilitation (EPAR) diffusers. After four-weeks of OT, clinical recuperation of smell was correlated with interval increase of bilateral OB volumes [right: 22.5 mm3 to 49.5 mm3 (120%), left: 37.5 mm3 to 42 mm3 (12%)] and improvement of mean olfactory FC [0.09 to 0.15 (66.6%)].
Buildings 2019 Best Paper Awards
Authors:   Buildings Editorial Office
Published: May 2021

Buildings is instituting the Best Paper Award to recognize outstanding papers published in the journal [...]
Long-Term Survival and Recurrence in Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Relation to Subsites, HPV, and p16-Status
Authors: Wendt Malin , Hammarstedt-Nordenvall Lalle , Zupancic Mark , Friesland Signe , Landin David , Munck-Wikland Eva , Dalianis Tina , Näsman Anders , Marklund Linda
Published: May 2021

Long-term survival data in relation to sub-sites, human papillomavirus (HPV), and p16INK4a (p16) for patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is still sparse. Furthermore, reports have indicated atypical and late recurrences for patients with HPV and p16 positive OPSCC. Therefore, we assessed long-term survival and recurrence in relation to oropharyngeal subsite and HPV/p16 status. A total of 529 patients with OPSCC, diagnosed in the period 2000–2010, with known HPVDNA and p16-status, were included. HPV/p16 status and sub-sites were correlated to disease-free and overall survival (DFS and OS respectively). The overexpression of p16 (p16+) is associated with significantly better long-term OS and DFS in tonsillar and base of tongue carcinomas (TSCC/BOTSCC), but not in patients with other OPSCC. Patients with HPVDNA+/p16+ TSCC/BOTSCC presented better OS and DFS compared to those with HPVDNA−/p16− tumors, while those with HPVDNA−/p16+ cancer had an intermediate survival. Late recurrences were rare, and significantly more frequent in patients with p16− tumors, while the prognosis after relapse was poor independent of HPVDNA+/−/p16+/− status. In conclusion, patients with p16+ OPSCC do not have more late recurrences than p16−, and a clear prognostic value of p16+ was only observed in TSCC/BOTSCC. Finally, the combination of HPVDNA and p16 provided superior prognostic information compared to p16 alone in TSCC/BOTSCC.
Improving Care for Patients Living with Prolonged Incurable Cancer
Authors: Stegmann Mariken E. , Geerse Olaf P. , van Zuylen Lia , Nekhlyudov Larissa , Brandenbarg Daan
Published: May 2021

The number of patients that can no longer be cured but may expect to live with their cancer diagnosis for a substantial period is increasing. These patients with ‘prolonged incurable cancer’ are often overlooked in research and clinical practice. Patients encounter problems that are traditionally seen from a palliative or survivorship perspective but this may be insufficient to cover the wide range of physical and psychosocial problems that patients with prolonged incurable cancer may encounter. Elements from both fields should, therefore, be delivered concordantly to further optimize care pathways for these patients. Furthermore, to ensure future high-quality care for this important patient population, enhanced clinical awareness, as well as further research, are urgently needed.
Impact of Mantle Cell Lymphoma Contamination of Autologous Stem Cell Grafts on Outcome after High-Dose Chemotherapy
Authors: Roerden Malte , Wirths Stefan , Sökler Martin , Bethge Wolfgang A. , Vogel Wichard , Walz Juliane S.
Published: May 2021

Novel predictive factors are needed to identify mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) patients at increased risk for relapse after high-dose chemotherapy and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HDCT/Auto-HSCT). Although bone marrow and peripheral blood involvement is commonly observed in MCL and lymphoma cell contamination of autologous stem cell grafts might facilitate relapse after Auto-HSCT, prevalence and prognostic significance of residual MCL cells in autologous grafts are unknown. We therefore performed a multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC)-based measurable residual disease (MRD) assessment in autologous stem cell grafts and analyzed its association with clinical outcome in an unselected retrospective cohort of 36 MCL patients. MRD was detectable in four (11%) autologous grafts, with MRD levels ranging from 0.002% to 0.2%. Positive graft-MRD was associated with a significantly shorter progression-free and overall survival when compared to graft-MRD negative patients (median 9 vs. 56 months and 25 vs. 132 months, respectively) and predicted early relapse after Auto-HSCT (median time to relapse 9 vs. 44 months). As a predictor of outcome after HDCT/Auto-HSCT, MFC-based assessment of graft-MRD might improve risk stratification and support clinical decision making for risk-oriented treatment strategies in MCL.
Enhanced Thermogenesis in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Is Associated with Pro-Tumor Immune Microenvironment
Authors: Gandhi Shipra , Oshi Masanori , Murthy Vijayashree , Repasky Elizabeth A. , Takabe Kazuaki
Published: May 2021

Mild cold stress induced by housing mice with a 4T1 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell implantation model at 22 °C increases tumor growth rate with a pro-tumorigenic immune microenvironment (lower CD8 +T cells, higher myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and regulatory T-cells (Tregs)). Since cold stress also activates thermogenesis, we hypothesized that enhanced thermogenesis is associated with more aggressive cancer biology and unfavorable tumor microenvironment (TME) in TNBC patients. A total of 6479 breast cancer patients from METABRIC, TCGA, GSE96058, GSE20194, and GSE25066 cohorts were analyzed using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) thermogenesis score. High-thermogenesis TNBC was associated with a trend towards worse survival and with angiogenesis, adipogenesis, and fatty acid metabolism pathways. On the other hand, low-thermogenesis TNBC enriched most of the hallmark cell-proliferation-related gene sets (i.e., mitotic spindle, E2F targets, G2M checkpoint, MYC targets), as well as immune-related gene sets (i.e., IFN-α and IFN-γ response). Favorable cytotoxic T-cell-attracting chemokines CCL5, CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 were lower; while the MDSC- and Treg-attracting chemokine CXCL12 was higher. There were higher M2 but lower M1 macrophages and Tregs. In conclusion, high-thermogenesis TNBC is associated with pro-tumor immune microenvironment and may serve as biomarker for testing strategies to overcome this immunosuppression.
Genetic Patterns Found in the Nuclear Localization Signals (NLSs) Associated with EBV-1 and EBV-2 Provide New Insights into Their Contribution to Different Cell-Type Specificities
Authors: Zanella Louise , Reyes María Elena , Riquelme Ismael , Abanto Michel , León Daniela , Viscarra Tamara , Ili Carmen , Brebi Priscilla
Published: May 2021

The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is a globally dispersed pathogen involved in several human cancers of B-cell and non-B-cell origin. EBV has been classified into EBV-1 and EBV-2, which have differences in their transformative ability. EBV-1 can transform B-cells into LCL more efficiently than EBV-2, and EBV-2 preferentially infects T-cell lymphocytes. The EBNA3A oncoprotein is a transcriptional regulator of virus and host cell genes, and is required in order to transform B-cells. EBNA3A has six peptide motifs called nuclear localization signals (NLSs) that ensure nucleocytoplasmic protein trafficking. The presence of multiple NLSs has been suggested to enhance EBNA3 function or different specificities in different cell types. However, studies about the NLS variability associated with EBV types are scarce. Based on a systematic sequence analysis considering more than a thousand EBNA3A sequences of EBV from different human clinical manifestations and geographic locations, we found differences in NLSs’ nucleotide structures among EBV types. Compared with the EBNA3A EBV-1, EBNA3A EBV-2 has two of the six NLSs altered, and these mutations were possibly acquired by recombination. These genetic patterns in the NLSs associated with EBV-1 and EBV-2 provide new information about the traits of EBNA3A in EBV biology.
Th2 Cytokines Increase the Expression of Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 in the Liver
Authors: Kang Seul-Gi , Lee Seong-Eun , Choi Min-Jeong , Chang Joon-Young , Kim Jung-Tae , Zhang Ben-Yuan , Kang Yea-Eun , Lee Ju-Hee , Yi Hyon-Seung , Shong Minho
Published: May 2021

Interleukin-4 (IL-4) and IL-13 are the major T helper 2 (Th2) cytokines, and they are involved in the regulation of metabolism in the adipose tissue. The liver contains diverse innate and adaptive immune cells, but it remains to be determined whether Th2 cytokines modulate energy metabolism in the liver. Here, using gene expression data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the BXD mouse reference population, we determined that the Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 increase the secretion of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) in the liver. In vitro experiments confirmed that FGF21 was highly expressed in response to IL-4 and IL-13, and this response was abolished by the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) blockade. Moreover, FGF21 expression in response to Th2 cytokines was augmented by selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) inhibition. In vivo administration of IL-4 increased FGF21 protein levels in the liver in a STAT6-dependent manner, but FGF21 secretion in response to IL-4 was not observed in the epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) despite the activation of STAT6. Intraperitoneal administration of IL-33, an activator of type 2 immune responses, significantly increased the level of FGF21 in the serum and liver after 24 h, but repeated administration of IL-33 attenuated this effect. Taken together, these data demonstrate that the IL-4/IL-13–STAT6 axis regulates metabolic homeostasis through the induction of FGF21 in the liver.
Genome Editing to Generate Sake Yeast Strains with Eight Mutations That Confer Excellent Brewing Characteristics
Authors: Chadani Tomoya , Ohnuki Shinsuke , Isogai Atsuko , Goshima Tetsuya , Kashima Mao , Ghanegolmohammadi Farzan , Nishi Tomoyuki , Hirata Dai , Watanabe Daisuke , Kitamoto Katsuhiko , Akao Takeshi , Ohya Yoshikazu
Published: May 2021

Sake yeast is mostly diploid, so the introduction of recessive mutations to improve brewing characteristics requires considerable effort. To construct sake yeast with multiple excellent brewing characteristics, we used an evidence-based approach that exploits genome editing technology. Our breeding targeted the AWA1, CAR1, MDE1, and FAS2 genes. We introduced eight mutations into standard sake yeast to construct a non-foam-forming strain that makes sake without producing carcinogens or an unpleasant odor, while producing a sweet ginjo aroma. Small-scale fermentation tests showed that the desired sake could be brewed with our genome-edited strains. The existence of a few unexpected genetic perturbations introduced during breeding proved that genome editing technology is extremely effective for the serial breeding of sake yeast.
Feasibility of Using Non-Destructive Ultrasound Measurement Technique to Evaluate Binder Content of Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Jadidi Kazem , Khalili Mehdi , Karakouzian Moses
Published: May 2021

The non-destructive ultrasound technique is an easy and inexpensive technique widely used in industry to evaluate the properties of engineering materials. Despite its popularity in industrial applications, such as evaluating steel materials, the ultrasound technique has not been thoroughly investigated for the purpose of characterizing asphalt materials in general, nor specifically determining the asphalt binder content of asphalt mixtures. The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of utilizing measurements based on the non-destructive ultrasound technique to detect changes in the asphalt binder content in asphaltic mixture specimens. Two performance-grade binders, PG64-28 and PG76-22, and two rubber-modified binders were selected. The rubber-modified binders were produced by adding crumb rubber to the two performance-grade binders, PG64-28 and PG76-22, and were designated as PG64-28R and PG76-22R. The amount of crumb rubber added to these rubber-modified binders was 15% by weight of the PG64-28 and PG76-22 binders. The aggregate gradations for all of the asphalt mixtures were the same. The asphalt mixture specimens were used to obtain measurements for: (1) the ultrasound wave speed through the specimens; and (2) and the integrated response (IR) of the specimens. The results indicated that, generally, the ultrasound wave speed decreases with an increase in binder content. This is expected due to the binder’s attenuation and slowing effect on the wave speed. The results also indicated that, generally, the integrated response (IR) decreases with an increase in binder content. This can be explained by the fact that the increased binder content in asphalt mixture specimens increases their tendency to absorb more energy.
Combustion Processed Nickel Oxide and Zinc Doped Nickel Oxide Thin Films as a Hole Transport Layer for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Thiruchelvan Ponmudi Selvan , Lai Chien-Chih , Tsai Chih-Hung
Published: May 2021

Combustion processed nickel oxide (NiOx) thin film is considered as an alternative to the sol-gel processed hole transport layer for perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this paper, NiOx thin film was prepared by the solution–combustion process at 250 °C, a temperature lower than the actual reaction temperature. Furthermore, the properties of the NiOx hole transport layer (HTL) in PSCs were enhanced by the incorporation of zinc (Zn) in NiOx thin films. X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results revealed that the formation of NiOx was achieved at lower annealing temperature, which confirms the process of the combustion reaction. The electrical conductivity was greatly improved with Zn doping into the NiOx crystal lattice. Better photoluminescence (PL) quenching, and low PL lifetime decay were responsible for better charge separation in 5% Zn doped NiOx, which results in improved device performance of PSCs. The maximum power conversion efficiency of inverted PSCs made with pristine NiOx and 5% Zn-NiOx as the HTL was 13.62% and 14.87%, respectively. Both the devices exhibited better stability than the PEDOT:PSS (control) device in an ambient condition.
Absence of Superconductivity in the Hubbard Dimer Model for κ-(BEDT-TTF)2X
Authors: Roy Dipayan , Clay R. Torsten , Mazumdar Sumit
Published: May 2021

In the most studied family of organic superconductors κ-(BEDT-TTF)2X, the BEDT-TTF molecules that make up the conducting planes are coupled as dimers. For some anions X, an antiferromagnetic insulator is found at low temperatures adjacent to superconductivity. With an average of one hole carrier per dimer, the BEDT-TTF band is effectively 12-filled. Numerous theories have suggested that fluctuations of the magnetic order can drive superconducting pairing in these models, even as direct calculations of superconducting pairing in monomer 12-filled band models find no superconductivity. Here, we present accurate zero-temperature Density Matrix Renormalization Group (DMRG) calculations of a dimerized lattice with one hole per dimer. While we do find an antiferromagnetic state in our results, we find no evidence for superconducting pairing. This further demonstrates that magnetic fluctuations in the effective 12-filled band approach do not drive superconductivity in these and related materials.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation in the Interlayer of Mixed-Layer Clays Due to Hydration and Swelling Mechanism
Authors: Yang Yu , Adhikari Sanjeev , Xu Guoyuan
Published: May 2021

The swelling behavior of clay minerals is widely known for its importance in soil and environmental sciences and its detrimental effects in engineering fields. Although more than 70 percent of all clays are of mixed-layer types, the vast majority of the previous experiments and simulations are focused on pure clays, which cause the swelling mechanism of the widespread mixed-layer clay (MLC) and its role in soils are little understood, especially the most common illite-montmorillonite (I-M) mixed-layer clay (MLC). This paper reports on a molecular dynamics (MD) study of the differences in swelling behavior between I-M MLCs containing K+ and Na+ and Na-montmorillonite (MMT). It captures the evolution of quantitative properties such as basal spacing d, interaction energy, and many hydrogen bonds in the clay interlayer, increasing hydration for the first time through the scripts. It is found that MLCs have smaller swellings than Na-MMT due to the asymmetric interlayer charges and mixed counterions in the I-M interlayer. However, in terms of the interaction energy for the in-depth reason of swelling, it is found that the clay-clay interaction energy and the clay-ion interaction energy drop, while the clay-water interaction energy increases with increasing hydration. In addition, the attractive interaction of clay-bound water seriously promotes swelling, and it is mainly composed of Coulomb interaction and Van der Waals interaction. The higher the K+ concentration, the more noticeable these phenomena are. Besides, it is also reported that the number and distribution mechanism of hydrogen bonds in MLCs are very different from that of pure clay. This work provides insight into the molecular mechanism for initial swelling and clay-bound water interaction in widespread MLCs. This will help to decipher its specific role in soils and minimize clay swelling.
Analysis of In Situ Optical Signals during Laser Metal Deposition of Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Li Liqun , Wang Xian , Huang Yichen
Published: May 2021

During laser metal deposition (LMD) of thin-walled aluminum alloy structures, the deposition height and width is hard to keep stable because of the special properties of aluminum alloys, such as high reflectivity to laser beams, low viscosity, and high thermal conductivity. Monitoring the LMD process allows for a better comprehension and control of this process. To investigate the characteristics of the aluminum alloy LMD process, three real-time coaxial optical sensors sensitive to visible light, infrared light, and back-reflected lasers ere used to monitor the aluminum alloy LMD process. Thin-walled parts were deposited with different laser power, and the characteristics of the three in situ signals are analyzed. The results show that there exists high linear correlation between reflected laser and accumulated deposition height. A laser reflection model was built to explain the correlation. Besides, the infrared light is linearly correlated with deposition width. Overall, the results of this study show that the optical signals are able to reflect the deposition height and width simultaneously. Infrared light signals and reflected laser signals have the potential to serve as the input of online feedback geometry control systems and real-time defect alarm systems of the LMD process.
Adnexotropic Variants of the Interface Dermatitides: A Review
Authors: Stephan Carla , Abbas Ossama , Bhawan Jag
Published: May 2021

The interface dermatitides encompass a vast array of cutaneous entities which, at times, may present with particular clinical variants with adnexal predilection. Similarly, hair follicle and eccrine gland involvement of some of these entities has been observed on histopathology. This review aims to describe the various adnexotropic presentations of the interface dermatitides. Recognizing that the adnexa can be a frequent site of involvement of these conditions may aid dermatopathologists in making the correct diagnosis and avoid misinterpreting adnexotropism for other conditions such as the great imitator, mycosis fungoides.
Analysis of Pollutant Emissions on City Arteries—Aspects of Transport Management
Authors: Brzozowska Anna , Korczak Jerzy , Kalinichenko Antonina , Bubel Dagmara , Sukiennik Katarzyna , Sikora Daniel , Stebila Jan
Published: May 2021

The aim of the study is to present a methodology for analyzing pollution emissions in a medium-sized city using modern traffic simulations in the aspect of minimizing exhaust emissions. The scope of the research and the methods of analysis used differ from those applied in big cities projects that can be found in the literature, Therefore the progressive elaboration model has been applied methodically to formulate and carry out the feasibility study. To perform microscopic traffic simulations, the software Simulation of Urban Mobility (SUMO—German Aerospace Center (DLR), Berlin, Germany) was applied. Thanks to the simulations, changes in traffic organization were accurately identified in the context of pollution emissions before they were implemented. The proposed approach allows a smooth flow of vehicles and a reduction of exhaust emissions. The experiments, supported by visual modelling of traffic with respect to pollution emissions, were performed on one of the main arteries of the city of Czestochowa (Poland). The results were used to explain the benefits of planned roadworks and convince the city government of the necessity to modernize the communication network.
Framework for Deterministic Assessment of Risk-Averse Participation in Local Flexibility Markets †
Authors: Schmitt Carlo , Gaumnitz Felix , Blank Andreas , Rebenaque Olivier , Dronne Théo , Martin Arnault , Vassilopoulos Philippe , Moser Albert , Roques Fabien
Published: May 2021

Local flexibility markets (LFMs) are a market-based concept to integrate distributed energy resources into congestion management. However, the activation of flexibility for storage-based flexibility changes the respective state of charge. Compensation in later points of time is needed to regain the original flexibility potential. Therefore, we propose a LFM bid formulation including both flexibility and compensation. Furthermore, flexibility market participation might lead to inc-dec-gaming, i.e., congestion-increasing behavior to maximize profits. However, this inc-dec-gaming might lead to electricity market schedule deviations if LFM offers are not activated. We propose a risk-averse modeling formulation considering the potential non-activation of LFM bids to provide a framework for the assessment of LFM participation comparing different approaches. Our exemplary case studies demonstrate the proposed LFM bid formulation and show the impact of LFM participation modeling on inc-dec-gaming and congestion management costs.
Energy Self-Subsistence of Agriculture in EU Countries
Authors: Rokicki Tomasz , Ratajczak Marcin , Bórawski Piotr , Bełdycka-Bórawska Aneta , Gradziuk Barbara , Gradziuk Piotr , Siedlecka Agnieszka
Published: May 2021

The paper’s main purpose was to identify the level and factors influencing the consumption of bioenergy of agricultural origin in agriculture in EU countries. All EU countries were deliberately selected for research, as of 31 December 2018. The research period covered the years 2004 to 2018. The sources of materials were the subject literature, Eurostat data, and IEA (International Energy Agency) data. The following methods were used for the analysis and presentation of materials: descriptive, tabular, graphical, Gini concentration coefficient, Lorenz concentration curve, descriptive statistics, Kendall’s tau correlation coefficient and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. In the EU, there was a high level of concentration of renewable energy consumption in several countries. There was also no change in the use of bioenergy of agricultural origin in agriculture, but the concentration level was low. The degree of concentration has not changed for both parameters of renewable energy over a dozen or so years, which proves a similar pace of development of the use of renewable energy sources in individual EU countries. Higher consumption of bioenergy of agricultural origin in agriculture was shown to occur in economically developed countries, but with high agricultural production. There was a strong correlation between the consumption of bioenergy of agricultural origin in agriculture for the entire EU and individual economic parameters in the field of energy and agriculture. The relations were positive for all economic parameters, for total renewables and biofuels consumption and for agricultural production parameters. Negative relations concerned the total energy consumption and parameters related to the area of agricultural crops.
Decentralized Management of Commercial HVAC Systems
Authors: Faddel Samy , Tian Guanyu , Zhou Qun
Published: May 2021

With the growth of commercial building sizes, it is more beneficial to make them “smart” by controlling the schedule of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system adaptively. Single-building-based scheduling methods are more focused on individual interests and usually result in overlapped schedules that can cause voltage deviations in their microgrid. This paper proposes a decentralized management framework that is able to minimize the total electricity costs of a commercial microgrid and limit the voltage deviations. The proposed scheme is a two-level optimization where the lower level ensures the thermal comfort inside the buildings while the upper level consider system-wise constraints and costs. The decentralization of the framework is able to maintain the privacy of individual buildings. Multiple data-driven building models are developed and compared. The effect of the building modeling on the overall operation of coordinated buildings is discussed. The proposed framework is validated on a modified IEEE 13-bus system with different connected types of commercial buildings. The results show that coordinated optimization outperforms the commonly used commercial controller and individual optimization of buildings. The results also show that the total costs are greatly affected by the building modeling.
Correct Cross-Section of Cable Screen in a Medium Voltage Collector Network with Isolated Neutral of a Wind Power Plant
Authors: Al_Issa Huthaifa A. , Qawaqzeh Mohamed , Khasawneh Alaa , Buinyi Roman , Bezruchko Viacheslav , Miroshnyk Oleksandr
Published: May 2021

The article discusses the selection of cables for power lines connecting wind turbine generators at the wind power plant. The screen cross-section of these cables should be selected considering the value of the screen current at double line-to-earth fault. To calculate this current, the dimensions of the cable should be known. However, these parameters are hidden and cannot be used during designing. Therefore, a highly simplified method is currently used in practice. It is shown that the errors from the highly simplified method are up to 33%. Authors propose a simplified method based on open data of cable manufacturers. The proposed method is compared with simulation results of a common model of cable power line and takes into account self and mutual inductances of the cores and screens. It is shown that the error of the proposed method is smaller than 4.0% for real cable power lines at wind power plants. However, for a long section of cable power line (2.5 km) the error of calculation might increase up to 6.3%. This allows us to use the proposed method for designing. In addition, the authors show how the results of the highly simplified method can be corrected to improve accuracy.
Digitalisation and Innovation in the Steel Industry in Poland—Selected Tools of ICT in an Analysis of Statistical Data and a Case Study
Authors: Gajdzik Bożena , Wolniak Radosław
Published: May 2021

Digital technologies enable companies to build cyber-physical systems (CPS) in Industry 4.0. In the increasingly popular concept of Industry 4.0, an important research topic is the application of digital technology in industry, and in particular in specific industry sectors. The aim of this paper is to present the tools used in the steel industry in Poland on its way to the full digitalisation that is needed for the development of Industry 4.0. The paper consists of two parts: a literature review and a practical analysis. The paper provides the background information about digitalisation using digital tools in the steel industry in Poland. The paper was prepared based on secondary information and statistical data. The object of the research is the Polish steel sector. This study assumes that digitalisation is the main area of innovation in the steel industry. The digitalisation determines the creation of new or modified products, processes, techniques and expansion of the company’s infrastructure; therefore, the data on digital technology were supplemented with data on the innovativeness of the Polish steel sector. The results of this study provide managers with valuable information to understand the importance of full digitalisation and the need to focus on digital strategies. Such insights can be used to improve companies’ processing capabilities and produce better products, which is key to innovation.
On the Evaluation of Interfacial Tension (IFT) of CO2–Paraffin System for Enhanced Oil Recovery Process: Comparison of Empirical Correlations, Soft Computing Approaches, and Parachor Model
Authors: Rezaei Farzaneh , Rezaei Amin , Jafari Saeed , Hemmati-Sarapardeh Abdolhossein , Mohammadi Amir H. , Zendehboudi Sohrab
Published: May 2021

Carbon dioxide-based enhanced oil-recovery (CO2-EOR) processes have gained considerable interest among other EOR methods. In this paper, based on the molecular weight of paraffins (n-alkanes), pressure, and temperature, the magnitude of CO2–n-alkanes interfacial tension (IFT) was determined by utilizing soft computing and mathematical modeling approaches, namely: (i) radial basis function (RBF) neural network (optimized by genetic algorithm (GA), gravitational search algorithm (GSA), imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA), particle swarm optimization (PSO), and ant colony optimization (ACO)), (ii) multilayer perception (MLP) neural network (optimized by Levenberg-Marquardt (LM)), and (iii) group method of data handling (GMDH). To do so, a broad range of laboratory data consisting of 879 data points collected from the literature was employed to develop the models. The proposed RBF-ICA model, with an average absolute percent relative error (AAPRE) of 4.42%, led to the most reliable predictions. Furthermore, the Parachor approach with different scaling exponents (n) in combination with seven equations of state (EOSs) was applied for IFT predictions of the CO2–n-heptane and CO2–n-decane systems. It was found that n = 4 was the optimum value to obtain precise IFT estimations; and combinations of the Parachor model with three-parameter Peng–Robinson and Soave–Redlich–Kwong EOSs could better estimate the IFT of the CO2–n-alkane systems, compared to other used EOSs.
System Level Real-Time Simulation and Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing of MMCs
Authors: Difronzo Michele , Biswas Md Multan , Milton Matthew , Ginn Herbert L. , Benigni Andrea
Published: May 2021

In this paper we present an approach for real-time simulation and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing of Modular Multilevel Converters (MMCs) that rely on switching models while supporting system level analysis. Using the Latency Based Linear Multistep Compound (LB-LMC) approach, we achieved a 50 ns simulation time step for systems composed of several MMC converters and for converters of various complexity. To facilitate system level testing, we introduce the use of a serial communication-based (Aurora) interface for HIL testing of MMC converters and we analyzed the effect that communication latency has on the accuracy of the HIL test. The simulation and HIL results are validated against an MMC laboratory prototype.
sUAS for 3D Tree Surveying: Comparative Experiments on a Closed-Canopy Earthen Dam
Authors: Wang Cuizhen , Morgan Grayson , Hodgson Michael E.
Published: May 2021

Defined as “personal remote sensing”, small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) have been increasingly utilized for landscape mapping. This study tests a sUAS procedure of 3D tree surveying of a closed-canopy woodland on an earthen dam. Three DJI drones—Mavic Pro, Phantom 4 Pro, and M100/RedEdge-M assembly—were used to collect imagery in six missions in 2019–2020. A canopy height model was built from the sUAS-extracted point cloud and LiDAR bare earth surface. Treetops were delineated in a variable-sized local maxima filter, and tree crowns were outlined via inverted watershed segmentation. The outputs include a tree inventory that contains 238 to 284 trees (location, tree height, crown polygon), varying among missions. The comparative analysis revealed that the M100/RedEdge-M at a higher flight altitude achieved the best performance in tree height measurement (RMSE = 1 m). However, despite lower accuracy, the Phantom 4 Pro is recommended as an optimal drone for operational tree surveying because of its low cost and easy deployment. This study reveals that sUAS have good potential for operational deployment to assess tree overgrowth toward dam remediation solutions. With 3D imaging, sUAS remote sensing can be counted as a reliable, consumer-oriented tool for monitoring our ever-changing environment.
Publishers’ Forewords to Launch the New Journal Foundations
Authors: Schlatter Andreas E. , Lin Shu-Kun
Published: May 2021

n/a
Variants in MHY7 Gene Cause Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ferradini Valentina , Parca Luca , Martino Annamaria , Lanzillo Chiara , Silvetti Elisa , Calò Leonardo , Caselli Stefano , Novelli Giuseppe , Helmer-Citterich Manuela , Sangiuolo Federica Carla , Mango Ruggiero
Published: May 2021

Background: Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a disease of the cardiac muscle, characterized by frequent ventricular arrhythmias and functional/ structural abnormalities, mainly of the right ventricle. To date, 20 different genes have been associated with ACM and the majority of them encode for desmosomal proteins. In this study, we describe the characterization of two novel variants in MHY7 gene, segregating in two ACM families. MYH7 encodes for myosin heavy chain β (MHC-β) isoform, involved in cardiac muscle contractility. Method and Results: In family A, the autopsy revealed ACM with biventricular involvement in both the proband and his father. In family B, the proband had been diagnosed as affected by ACM and implanted with implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), due to ECG evidence of monomorphic ventricular tachycardia after syncope. After clinical evaluation, a molecular diagnosis was performed using a NGS custom panel. The two novel variants identified predicted damaging, located in a highly conserved domain: c. 2630T>C is not described while c.2609G>A has a frequency of 0.00000398. In silico analyses evaluated the docking characteristics between proteins using the Haddock2.2 webserver. Conclusions: Our results reveal two variants in sarcomeric genes to be the molecular cause of ACM, further increasing the genetic heterogeneity of the disease; in fact, sarcomeric variants are usually associated with HCM phenotype. Studies on the role of sarcomere genes in the pathogenesis of ACM are surely recommended in those ACM patients negative for desmosomal mutation screening.
LTBP4 in Health and Disease
Authors: Su Chi-Ting , Urban Zsolt
Published: May 2021

Latent transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)-binding protein (LTBP) 4, a member of the LTBP family, shows structural homology with fibrillins. Both these protein types are characterized by calcium-binding epidermal growth factor-like repeats interspersed with 8-cysteine domains. Based on its domain composition and distribution, LTBP4 is thought to adopt an extended structure, facilitating the linear deposition of tropoelastin onto microfibrils. In humans, mutations in LTBP4 result in autosomal recessive cutis laxa type 1C, characterized by redundant skin, pulmonary emphysema, and valvular heart disease. LTBP4 is an essential regulator of TGFβ signaling and is related to development, immunity, injury repair, and diseases, playing a central role in regulating inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer progression. In this review, we focus on medical disorders or diseases that may be manipulated by LTBP4 in order to enhance the understanding of this protein.
Genome-Scale Metabolic Model of Infection with SARS-CoV-2 Mutants Confirms Guanylate Kinase as Robust Potential Antiviral Target
Authors: Renz  Alina , Widerspick  Lina , Dräger  Andreas
Published: May 2021

The current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is still threatening humankind. Despite first successes in vaccine development and approval, no antiviral treatment is available for COVID-19 patients. The success is further tarnished by the emergence and spreading of mutation variants of SARS-CoV-2, for which some vaccines have lower efficacy. This highlights the urgent need for antiviral therapies even more. This article describes how the genome-scale metabolic model (GEM) of the host-virus interaction of human alveolar macrophages and SARS-CoV-2 was refined by incorporating the latest information about the virus’s structural proteins and the mutant variants B.1.1.7, B.1.351, B.1.28, B.1.427/B.1.429, and B.1.617. We confirmed the initially identified guanylate kinase as a potential antiviral target with this refined model and identified further potential targets from the purine and pyrimidine metabolism. The model was further extended by incorporating the virus’ lipid requirements. This opened new perspectives for potential antiviral targets in the altered lipid metabolism. Especially the phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis seems to play a pivotal role in viral replication. The guanylate kinase is even a robust target in all investigated mutation variants currently spreading worldwide. These new insights can guide laboratory experiments for the validation of identified potential antiviral targets. Only the combination of vaccines and antiviral therapies will effectively defeat this ongoing pandemic.