bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translation Potential and Challenges of In Vitro and Murine Models in Cancer Clinic
Authors: Long Yuan , Xie Bin , Shen Hong C. , Wen Danyi
Published: December 2022

As one of the leading causes of death from disease, cancer continues to pose a serious threat to human health globally. Despite the development of novel therapeutic regimens and drugs, the long-term survival of cancer patients is still very low, especially for those whose diagnosis is not caught early enough. Meanwhile, our understanding of tumorigenesis is still limited. Suitable research models are essential tools for exploring cancer mechanisms and treatments. Herein we review and compare several widely used in vitro and in vivo murine cancer models, including syngeneic tumor models, genetically engineered mouse models (GEMM), cell line-derived xenografts (CDX), patient-derived xenografts (PDX), conditionally reprogrammed (CR) cells, organoids, and MiniPDX. We will summarize the methodology and feasibility of various models in terms of their advantages and limitations in the application prospects for drug discovery and development and precision medicine.
Orphan Nuclear Receptor Nur77 Mediates the Lethal Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Therapeutic Efficacy of Cryptomeridiol in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Li Xudan , Chen Quancheng , Liu Jie , Lai Shenjin , Zhang Minda , Zhen Tidong , Hu Hongyu , Gao Xiang , Wong Alice S. T. , Zeng Jin-Zhang
Published: December 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) commonly possesses chronical elevation of IRE1α-ASK1 signaling. Orphan nuclear receptor Nur77, a promising therapeutic target in various cancer types, is frequently silenced in HCC. In this study, we show that cryptomeridiol (Bkh126), a naturally occurring sesquiterpenoid derivative isolated from traditional Chinese medicine Magnolia officinalis, has therapeutic efficacy in HCC by aggravating the pre-activated UPR and activating the silenced Nur77. Mechanistically, Nur77 is induced to sense IRE1α-ASK1-JNK signaling and translocate to the mitochondria, which leads to the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm). The Bkh126-induced aggravation of ER stress and mitochondrial dysfunction result in increased cytotoxic product of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The in vivo anti-HCC activity of Bkh126 is superior to that of sorafenib, currently used to treat advanced HCC. Our study shows that Bkh126 induces Nur77 to connect ER stress to mitochondria-mediated cell killing. The identification of Nur77 as a molecular target of Bhk126 provides a basis for improving the leads for the further development of anti-HCC drugs.
Mathematical Modeling and Experiments on Pyrolysis of Walnut Shells Using a Fixed-Bed Reactor
Authors: Safavi Aysan , Richter Christiaan , Unnthorsson Runar
Published: December 2022

Pyrolysis is a low-emission and sustainable thermochemical technique used in the production of biofuels, which can be used as an alternative to fossil fuels. Understanding the kinetic characterization of biomass pyrolysis is essential for process upscaling and optimization. There is no accepted model that can predict pyrolysis kinetics over a wide range of pyrolysis conditions and biomass types. This study investigates whether or not the classical lumped kinetic model with a three-competitive reaction scheme can accurately predict the walnut shell pyrolysis product yields. The experimental data were obtained from walnut shell pyrolysis experiments at different temperatures (300–600 °C) using a fixed-bed reactor. The chosen reaction scheme was in good agreement with our experimental data for low temperatures, where the primary degradation of biomass occurred (300 and 400 °C). However, at higher temperatures, there was less agreement with the model, indicating that some other reactions may occur at such temperatures. Hence, further studies are needed to investigate the use of detailed reaction schemes to accurately predict the char, tar, and gas yields for all types of biomass pyrolysis.
Effect of a Thermal Catalyst on Organosilanes Treatment to Improve Durability and Stability of Canadian Wood
Authors: Schorr Diane , Boivin Gabrielle , Stirling Rod
Published: December 2022

The demand for exterior wood siding is stagnating in North America due in part to perceptions of low durability and the need for frequent maintenance. One way to address these concerns is to modify the wood to improve its physical properties, while maintaining its appearance. In this study, white spruce was treated with organosilanes and a combination of aluminum treatments followed by a thermal treatment to improve the dimensional stability and the wood durability. Anti-swelling efficiency (ASE), leaching and decay tests were performed on the treated Canadian wood species. The quantity of hydroxyls available after treatment was evaluated by water vapor sorption. The results showed that the treatment improved the dimensional stability up to 50%. Available hydroxyls decreased by as much as 37%. The organosilanes treatment was resistant to leaching, while the aluminum was observed to leach. Organosilanes in combination with aluminum showed brown rot resistance. The addition of aluminum to the organosilanes treatment did not have effect on dimensional stability but it had a great impact on the brown rot resistance.
Experiences and Lessons Learned from Implementing the RELIEF Digital Symptom Self-Reporting App in a Palliative Home Care Setting
Authors: Chagani Jehanara , Li Donny , Keating Bonnie , Chasen Martin
Published: December 2022

The majority of Canadians agree they have the right to end-of-life care in their own homes. While a palliative approach to care in the home setting has been demonstrated to be beneficial for patients and the healthcare system, it has rarely been well-integrated through an eHealth approach. Thus, in 2018, we piloted the RELIEF app, a digital symptom self-reporting tool for patients with palliative care needs. This was followed by the initiation of an extension phase of RELIEF in the home care setting. In this commentary, we share the implementation perspectives and experiences of the researchers and healthcare workers involved in this home care phase. It was mainly expressed that there were challenges with nurses feeling involved, supporting the research program, and using the technology, while patients and family caregivers had challenges using the app and cooperating with staff. We describe our lessons learned from these experiences and future changes to be enacted. A detailed report of this trial will be made available in future publications.
Benthic Invertebrates Abundance and Trophic Links in the Coastal Zone during Cladophora Blooms
Authors: Berezina Nadezhda A. , Tiunov Alexei V. , Petukhov Vasily A. , Gubelit Yulia I.
Published: December 2022

The green macroalga Cladophora glomerata, a species typical of brackish water, predominates in most coastal areas of estuarine ecosystems. The present study aimed to determine the current ecological conditions in the Neva estuary (Baltic Sea) when subjected to eutrophication and the summer Cladophora bloom. Macroalgae bloom can result in temporary unfavorable conditions (oxygen depletion and pollution) for invertebrates during macroalgae decomposition, and its contribution to the autochthonous benthic food web remains unclear. We evaluated the Cladophora biomass and the abundance and composition of macro- and meiobenthic invertebrates and traced trophic links in the coastal area of the Neva estuary during the Cladophora bloom. Some species of grazing or omnivorous consumers (nematodes, gastropods, amphipods, insect larvae) reached high abundance in the Cladophora-dominated coastal community. The tracing of food sources in a food chain of the Cladophora-dominated coastal community (macrophytes-grazers-omnivores) were elucidated using dual δ13C and δ15N stable isotope analysis. The results showed that autochthonous organic sources derived from Cladophora at various stages might contribute notably (up to 89%) to the coastal food web, supporting the production of benthic consumers.
Evaluation of Genetic Diversity in Dog Breeds Using Pedigree and Molecular Analysis: A Review
Authors: Mabunda Ripfumelo Success , Makgahlela Mahlako Linah , Nephawe Khathutshelo Agree , Mtileni Bohani
Published: December 2022

Domestic dogs are important for many economic and social reasons, and they have become a well-known model species for human disease. According to research, dog breeds exhibit significant levels of inbreeding and genetic diversity loss, decreasing the population’s ability to adapt in certain conditions, and indicating the need of conservation strategies. Before the development of molecular markers, pedigree information was used for genetic diversity management. In recent years, genomic tools are frequently applied for accurate estimation of genetic diversity and improved genetic conservation due to incomplete pedigrees and pedigree errors. The most frequently used molecular markers include PCR-based microsatellite markers (STRs) and DNA sequencing-based single-nucleotide polymorphism markers (SNP). The aim of this review was to highlight genetic diversity studies on dog breeds conducted using pedigree and molecular markers, as well as the importance of genetic diversity conservation in increasing the adaptability and survival of dog breed populations.
Analysis of Parkinson’s Disease Using an Imbalanced-Speech Dataset by Employing Decision Tree Ensemble Methods
Authors: Barukab Omar , Ahmad Amir , Khan Tabrej , Thayyil Kunhumuhammed Mujeeb Rahiman
Published: December 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) currently affects approximately 10 million people worldwide. The detection of PD positive subjects is vital in terms of disease prognostics, diagnostics, management and treatment. Different types of early symptoms, such as speech impairment and changes in writing, are associated with Parkinson disease. To classify potential patients of PD, many researchers used machine learning algorithms in various datasets related to this disease. In our research, we study the dataset of the PD vocal impairment feature, which is an imbalanced dataset. We propose comparative performance evaluation using various decision tree ensemble methods, with or without oversampling techniques. In addition, we compare the performance of classifiers with different sizes of ensembles and various ratios of the minority class and the majority class with oversampling and undersampling. Finally, we combine feature selection with best-performing ensemble classifiers. The result shows that AdaBoost, random forest, and decision tree developed for the RUSBoost imbalanced dataset perform well in performance metrics such as precision, recall, F1-score, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and the geometric mean. Further, feature selection methods, namely lasso and information gain, were used to screen the 10 best features using the best ensemble classifiers. AdaBoost with information gain feature selection method is the best performing ensemble method with an F1-score of 0.903.
Acute Orbital Apex Syndrome Caused by Idiopathic Sclerosing Orbital Inflammation
Authors: Chang Chung-Chih , Chang Yung-Ching , Su Kuei-Ying , Lee Yuan-Chieh , Chang Fang-Ling , Li Ming-Hsun , Chen Yen-Chang , Chen Nancy
Published: December 2022

Idiopathic sclerosing orbital inflammation (ISOI) is a distinct entity among other orbital diseases. It is characterized by marked fibrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration that can damage orbital structures. Clinical manifestations were variable, including ocular and periocular redness, proptosis, and pain. Ocular motor restrictions and optic nerve dysfunction might occur in severe cases. We herein report a patient of ISOI who presented with total ophthalmoplegia and acute vision loss. His symptoms were relieved mainly as his vision improved to 20/25 after receiving corticosteroid and immunosuppressant therapies. Therefore, ISOI should be one of the deferential diagnoses when we encounter cases with acute orbital apex syndrome. With prompt evaluation and in-time treatment, a favorable outcome is possible.
Methylation of TET2 Promoter Is Associated with Global Hypomethylation and Hypohydroxymethylation in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Authors: Sung Wan-Yu , Lin Yuan-Zhao , Hwang Daw-Yang , Lin Chia-Hui , Li Ruei-Nian , Tseng Chia-Chun , Wu Cheng-Chin , Ou Tsan-Teng , Yen Jeng-Hsien
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: It is widely accepted that aberrant methylation patterns contribute to the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Ten–eleven translocation (TET) methylcytosine dioxygenase is an essential enzyme of which there are three members, TET1, 2, and 3, involved in hydroxymethylation, a newly uncovered mechanism of active DNA methylation. The epigenomes of gene transcription are regulated by 5-hydroxymethylcytocine (5-hmC) and TETs, leading to dysregulation of the immune system in SLE. The purpose of this study was to investigate the global hydroxymethylation status in SLE peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and to explore the role of TETs in changing the patterns of methylation. (2) Methods: We collected PBMCs from 101 SLE patients and 100 healthy donors. TaqMan real-time polymerase chain-reaction assay was performed for the detection of 5-methylcytosine (5-mC), 5-hmC, and TET2 mRNA expression and single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping. The methylation rates in different CpG sites of TET2 promoters were examined using next-generation sequencing-based deep bisulfite sequencing. Putative transcription factors were investigated using the UCSC Genome Browser on the Human Dec. 2013 (GRCh38/hg38) Assembly. (3) Results: 5-mC and 5-hmC were both decreased in SLE. The mRNA expression level of TET2 was notably high and found to be correlated with the levels of immunologic biomarkers that are indicative of SLE disease activity. The analysis of methylation rates in the TET2 promoter revealed that SLE patients had significantly higher and lower rates of methylation in TET2 105146072-154 and TET2 105146218-331, respectively. (4) Conclusions: TET2 may play an important role in 5-mC/5-hmC dynamics in the PBMCs of SLE patients. The epigenetic modification of TET2 promoters could contribute to the pathogenesis of SLE and the intensity of the immunologic reaction.
The Value of Infrared Thermography to Assess Foot and Limb Perfusion in Relation to Medical, Surgical, Exercise or Pharmacological Interventions in Peripheral Artery Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Piva Giovanni , Crepaldi Anna , Zenunaj Gladiol , Caruso Lorenzo , Rinaldo Natascia , Gasbarro Vincenzo , Lamberti Nicola , Lòpez-Soto Pablo Jesùs , Manfredini Fabio
Published: December 2022

Infrared thermography (IRT) is a promising imaging method in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). This systematic review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the employment of IRT as both a diagnostic method and an outcome measure in PAD patients in relation to any kind of intervention. On September 2022, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and gray literature were screened. Eligible articles employing IRT in PAD were screened for possible inclusion. The RoB 2.0 tool was used to assess the risk of bias. Twenty-one eligible articles were finally included, recruiting a total of 1078 patients. The IRT was used for PAD diagnosis/monitoring in 11 studies or to assess the effect of interventions (revascularization, pharmacological therapy, or exercise rehabilitation) in 10 studies. The analysis of the included papers raised high concerns about the overall quality of the studies. In conclusion, IRT as a noninvasive technique showed promising results in detecting foot perfusion in PAD patients. However, limits related to devices, points of reference, and measurement conditions need to be overcome by properly designed trials before recommending its implementation in current vascular practice.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Moro Jacopo , Sobrero Simona , Cartia Carlotta Francesca , Ceraolo Simona , Rapanà Roberta , Vaisitti Federico , Ganio Stefano , Mellone Federica , Rudella Stefano , Scopis Federico , La Paglia Danilo , Cacciatore Carola Crystel , Ruffini Enrico , Leo Francesco
Published: December 2022

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a rare cancer characterized by a very poor prognosis. Exposure to asbestos is the leading cause of malignant pleural mesothelioma. The preinvasive lesions, the mesothelial hyperplasia and its possible evolution are the focus of the majority of the studies aiming to identify the treatable phase of the disease. The role of BAP-1 and MTAP in the diagnosis of mesothelioma in situ and in the prognosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma is the main topic of recent studies. The management of preinvasive lesions in mesothelioma is still unclear and many aspects are the subject of debate. The diagnosis, the disease staging and the accurate, comprehensive assessment of patients are three key instants for an appropriate management of patients/the disease.
Recognizing Atypical Presentations of Alzheimer’s Disease: The Importance of CSF Biomarkers in Clinical Practice
Authors: Paraskevas George P. , Constantinides Vasilios C. , Boufidou Fotini , Tsantzali Ioanna , Pyrgelis Efstratios-Stylianos , Liakakis Georgios , Kapaki Elisabeth
Published: December 2022

Besides the typical amnestic presentation, neuropathological studies indicate that Alzheimer’s disease (AD) may present with atypical clinical pictures. The relative frequencies of typical and atypical or mixed presentations within the entire spectrum of AD remain unclear, while some mixed or atypical presentations may have not received adequate attention for them to be included in diagnostic criteria. We investigated the spectrum of clinical presentations in patients with the AD CSF biomarker profile (high tau and phospho-tau, low Aβ42 levels), hospitalized in a tertiary academic center. Among 98 patients with the CSF AD profile, 46% of patients had the typical presentation of “hippocampal” amnestic dementia. Additionally, 23.5% and 15.3% fulfilled the criteria of mixed or atypical presentations, respectively, as described in the IWG-2 criteria. The remaining 15.3% had unusual presentations, including non-logopenic (semantic and non-fluent agrammatic) primary progressive aphasia, corticobasal syndrome, and Richardson syndrome, or could be diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus. Despite selection bias (academic center), atypical clinical presentations of AD may be more common than previously thought. CSF biomarkers seem to be a useful tool for antemortem identification of such patients, which is likely to affect therapeutic decisions. Some of the unusual presentations described above should be incorporated in diagnostic criteria.
Infrared and Visible Image Fusion for Highlighting Salient Targets in the Night Scene
Authors: Zhan Weida , Wang Jiale , Jiang Yichun , Chen Yu , Zheng Tingyuan , Hong Yang
Published: December 2022

The goal of infrared and visible image fusion in the night scene is to generate a fused image containing salient targets and rich textural details. However, the existing image fusion methods fail to take the unevenness of nighttime luminance into account. To address the above issue, an infrared and visible image fusion method for highlighting salient targets in the night scene is proposed. First of all, a global attention module is designed, which rescales the weights of different channels after capturing global contextual information. Second, the loss function is divided into the foreground loss and the background loss, forcing the fused image to retain rich texture details while highlighting the salient targets. Finally, a luminance estimation function is introduced to obtain the trade-off control parameters of the foreground loss function based on the nighttime luminance. It can effectively highlight salient targets by retaining the foreground information from the source images. Compared with other advanced methods, the experimental results adequately demonstrate the excellent fusion performance and generalization of the proposed method.
A 16-Bit 120 MS/s Pipelined ADC Using a Multi-Level Dither Technique
Authors: Wu Junjie , Xu Honglin , Cao Xu , Liu Tao
Published: December 2022

In wireless applications, such as radars, tens of MHz signals need to be quantized using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with a large dynamic range. The detected signal amplitude can be random, with a small or large amplitude. In addition, the dynamic performance is degraded by capacitor mismatches. A 16-bit 120 MS/s pipelined ADC implemented in a 180 nm complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) process is presented in this work. We propose a multi-level dither technique that can significantly enhance the ADC linearity. The injected dither also helps improve the linearity when the ADC handles an input signal with a small amplitude. Traditional dither injection leads to an increase in the amplifier output swing. A counteracting dither injection scheme, both in sub-flash ADC and the multiplying digital-to-analog converter (MDAC), is proposed to remedy this issue. Moreover, capacitor mismatches in the first three pipeline stages are calibrated in a foreground way. The inter-stage residue gain accuracy is guaranteed by a gain-boosting amplifier. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the dither scheme, we obtained the dynamic performance of the ADC with a small input signal (−12 dBFS). The proposed calibration and dither injection technique improved the spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) from 77 dBc to 85 dBc with −12 dBFS input. With −1 dBFS input, the SFDR remained at over 85 dBc, reaching up to the Nyquist input frequency. Therefore, the dither scheme enhances the dynamic performance when the ADC handles a signal with small amplitude.
Challenges of Energy Management in the Food Industry in Poland in the Context of the Objectives of the European Green Deal and the “Farm to Fork” Strategy
Authors: Szczepaniak Iwona , Szajner Piotr
Published: December 2022

The Common Agricultural Policy defines the framework directions for the structural changes of the agri-food sector until 2030. The main reason for the actions is a fundamental change in the European Union’s approach to environmental protection issues and the dynamically changing conditions on the market for energy and agricultural raw materials. The European Green Deal, the key element of which is the “Farm to Fork” strategy, is the expression of the announced changes. The assumption of the documents is the long-term restructuring and modernization of the EU economy, which will be characterized, among others, by a closed cycle, low greenhouse gas emissions, and food and energy security. The challenges and the current situation in the markets of energy carriers are of significance in the activities of the food industry, which shows a high demand for energy. The aim of the article is to assess the level of consumption and energy efficiency of food industry enterprises in Poland, to identify challenges related to energy management and to formulate conclusions and recommendations in the field of changes adapting to the new conditions. The research results indicate that many positive changes took place in the energy economy of Polish food industry enterprises, among others, as a result of the implemented investments, the energy consumption of production, CO2 emissions and the amount of generated waste decreased. Due to unfavorable external conditions, it is necessary, however, to further improve the energy efficiency of enterprises, so that they can maintain cost competitiveness and meet the growing requirements in the field of environmental protection.
MPPT Control Algorithm Based on Particle Swarm Optimization and Adaptive Linear Active Disturbance Rejection Control
Authors: Zhang Miao , Zhuang Keyu , Zhao Tong , Xue Jingze , Gao Yunlong , Cui Shuai , Qiao Zheng
Published: December 2022

Aiming at the problem of maximum power point tracking (MPPT) of photovoltaic arrays in photovoltaic power generation systems, a particle swarm optimization (PSO) MPPT method combined with adaptive linear active disturbance rejection control (A-LADRC) algorithm was proposed and designed. In this method, PSO is used to track the maximum power point (MPP), and then the A-LADRC controller was used to track the reference voltage. The controller enhances the anti-interference ability against various external disturbances in the MPPT process and accelerates the response speed of the system. Compared with the perturbation observation method (P&O), traditional PSO and LADRC, the proposed method has good tracking performance and an anti-interference ability under various external disturbances.
Performance Analysis of Thermal Energy Storage System Integrated with a Cooking Unit
Authors: Okello Denis , Omony Robinson , Nyeinga Karidewa , Chaciga Jimmy
Published: December 2022

This paper presents an experimental study on a single tank thermal energy storage (TES) system integrated with a cooking unit. The tank had a capacity of 45 L of oil. The cooking chamber was embedded in the storage tank, thereby eliminating the use of pumps and connecting pipes between the cooking unit and the storage unit. The system was designed to make good physical contact, circumferential and basally, with the cooking pot, to improve the rate of heat transfer. Experimental tests were performed with oil only and oil–rock pebbles as sensible heat storage materials. The charging unit was connected to the TES unit in such a way that it allowed circulation of oil between them during charging, using the thermosiphon principle. An electric heater rated at 800 W 240 V was inserted into the charging unit to charge the system. The thermal performance of the TES systems was evaluated in terms of the charging temperature, heat retention capacity, energy stored and cooking efficiency, and the overall heat lost coefficient. The results showed that the oil–rock system performed best, with a cooking efficiency of 64.9%, followed by the oil-only TES system, with 60.3%. Further tests on cooking indicated that the system was able to cook beans in 2.25 h and 2.0 h using the oil only and oil–rock pebbles thermal energy storage systems, respectively.
Measurement of Rock Electrical Parameters and Analysis of Influencing Factors of Quaternary Mudstone Biogas Reservoirs in Qaidam Basin
Authors: Liu Junfeng , Chai Xiaoying , Yang Huijie , Gu Duanyang , Wang Liang
Published: December 2022

As a new and unconventional reservoir, Quaternary mudstone biogas reservoirs in the Qaidam Basin are widely distributed and thick. They have great potential for biogas exploration. However, the mudstone biogas reservoirs in this area characterized by weak cementation, high clay content, and easy hydrolysis. Using existing methods, it is difficult to obtain the rock electrical parameters and evaluate the saturation. This greatly affects the evaluation of oil and gas reserves. This study selected core samples from the Quaternary mudstone biogas reservoir in Qaidam Basin, prepared the samples through core conformation pretreatment, and conducted rock electrical experiments using the self-absorption water augmentation method to obtain the rock electrical parameters of the mudstone biogas reservoirs for the first time. Then, the factors influencing the rock electrical parameters of the mudstone biogas reservoir were analyzed. The results showed that: (1) the porosity of the mudstone core samples was generally greater than 20%, and the permeability was in the range of 0.05–5 mD. The rock mineral composition was dominated by clay minerals, followed by carbonate minerals, quartz, and feldspar. The clay mineral composition was mainly illite, followed by montmorillonite and chlorite, with a small amount of kaolinite. (2) The use of wire-electrode cutting and high-temperature, heat-shrinkable tube to wrap the core sample played a supporting and protecting role in the core. Using the self-absorption water augmentation method, information was obtained showing that the distribution of cementation index m of the reservoir core samples ranged between 1.89–2.08, with an average value of 1.99, and the distribution of saturation index n ranged between 1.872–2.270, with an average value of 2.09. (3) Organic matter content had no obvious effect on rock electrical parameters. With the decrease of clay mineral content, the quartz content increased, the permeability increased, and the cementation index increased gradually. The saturation index increased with the increase in clay mineral content and the decrease of quartz content and permeability. The above results laid a petrophysical basis for the evaluation of the saturation of mudstone biogas reservoirs and could provide technical support for the comprehensive evaluation of the reservoir and the calculation of reserves.
Experiments and Simulation on the Performance of a Liquid-Cooling Thermal Management System including Composite Silica Gel and Mini-Channel Cold Plates for a Battery Module
Authors: Lin Ruheng , Xie Jiekai , Liang Rui , Li Xinxi , Zhang Guoqing , Li Binbin
Published: December 2022

Lithium batteries in the electric vehicles (EVs) reveal that the operating temperature and temperature uniformity within the battery pack significantly affect its performance. An efficient thermal management system is urgently needed to protect the battery module within suitable temperature range. In this study, the composite silica gel (CSG), coupled with cross-structure mini-channel cold plate (MCP) as the cooling system, has been proposed and applied in a battery module, which can provide a reliable method of controlling battery temperature with low energy consumption. The experimental and simulation results reveal that a composite silica gel-based liquid system can control the temperature below 45 °C and maintain the temperature difference within 2 °C at a 3C discharge rate. Besides, the CSG, coupled with the structure of reciprocal chiasma channels for the battery module, presents an optimum temperature-controlling performance among various cooling structures during the charge and discharge cycling process. This research is expected to provide significant insights into the designing and optimization of thermal management systems.
Thermodynamic and Economic Performance Assessment of Double-Effect Absorption Chiller Systems with Series and Parallel Connections
Authors: Hu Jianke , Teng Kai , Qiu Yida , Chen Yuzhu , Wang Jun , Lund Peter
Published: December 2022

Absorption cooling technologies converting excess heat and renewable heat resources to cooling energy have shown progress in recent years. In this study, two 400 kW LiBr solution absorption chiller types with series and parallel connected are analyzed over a range of parameter values to better understand their applicability for different uses. Thermodynamic models for the components were constructed and validated. The performance of the chillers related to heat transfer, energy, exergy, and economy performance was comprehensively analyzed. The operating performance was investigated by considering the external variables, including inlet cooling water, chilled water, and inlet steam temperatures and the solution allocation ratio. The results indicate that the parallel connected chiller reaches higher energy and exergy performance than the series-connected chiller, but the heat transfer and economic performance was lower. The coefficient of performance and the exergy efficiency of the parallel chiller were for the reference system 1.30 and 24.42%, respectively. Except for the exergy efficiency, the inlet steam and inlet chilled water temperature had positive impact on the heat transfer, energy, and economic performance, while the inlet cooling water temperature trends the opposite. The sensitivity analysis on solution allocation ratio showed that a higher ratio decreases the heat transfer and economic performance, but considering the energy and exergy performance, a suitable allocation ratio would be 0.54.
A Study on Regulations Mandating Obligation on Renewable Energy in Taiwan
Authors: Chou Cheng-Chih , Chen Liang-Rui , Wu Kuo-Chen
Published: December 2022

The shift toward renewable energy has become a global trend today. In the past, power producers or the private sector were encouraged to install renewable energy equipment mainly through incentives (e.g., feed-in tariff, tax credits). Some countries also impose “renewable portfolio standards”, which mandate power producers to include RE. However, it is rare to see any mandatory requirements on electricity users anywhere in the world. Since 2018, Taiwan’s government has started to draft the RPS-TW to establish such obligation; but as a new mechanism, the greatest challenge lies in formulating feasible requirements that are apt to Taiwan’s circumstances. This study aimed to assist Taiwan’s government in this effort by formulating content that was feasible and meets external expectations regarding the applicable entities, scope, and methods of fulfillment. Once the draft had been revised accordingly, the public (electricity users, environmental groups, general public) were actively consulted, and the draft was modified and optimized based on widely collected feedback. The regulations were ultimately promulgated on 31 December 2020.
The Energy Transition as a Super Wicked Problem: The Energy Sector in the Era of Prosumer Capitalism
Authors: Jakimowicz Aleksander
Published: December 2022

The main objective of this paper is to demonstrate that the energy transition as part of prosumer capitalism is a socio-economic process whose complexity increases over time, which makes it an example of a super wicked problem. It comprises many new phenomena emerging spontaneously, and often unpredictably, in the energy markets. The main contemporary challenge involves such an energy sector transformation which will prevent climate change and will ensure the sustainable development of the global economy. However, this requires solving a large number of sub-problems in areas such as legislation, energy distribution, democracy, and cybersecurity. Therefore, this is a multidisciplinary issue. Moreover, the situation is complicated by the frequently omitted fact that energy transition is not part of the standard capitalism model, extensively described in handbooks and scientific literature, but it is conducted as part of a new economic system—prosumer capitalism, which has not been properly explored yet. However, a solution to this super wicked problem has to be found soon, as the energy system may be threatened with complexity catastrophe, which denotes exceeding the upper complexity limit associated with the breakdown of its adaptability. Therefore, developing effective techniques for alleviating the complexity catastrophe, including redefining the change management and complexity management methods to the global scale, becomes the top priority among the tasks faced by science.
A Pre-Sizing Method for Salient Pole Synchronous Reluctance Machines with Loss Minimization Control for a Small Urban Electrical Vehicle Considering the Driving Cycle
Authors: Bernard Nicolas , Dang Linh , Moreau Luc , Bourguet Salvy
Published: December 2022

In this paper, a design methodology for synchronous reluctance machines (SynRM) working with variable torque and speed profiles was presented. Unlike conventional solutions which size the machine considering a reduced number of working points in order to reduce the computation time, the solution proposed in this paper takes into account all the points which allow for better management of the constraints along the cycle to avoid an oversizing of the machine. To solve this problem with a reduced computation time, the geometry of the motor as well as the control strategy were optimized in two steps. In the first step, the d-q axis stator currents were analytically expressed. In the second step, the geometry was optimized with the use of a genetic algorithm. As an application of this method, the case of a small and low-cost electric vehicle (EV) was chosen with the objective of minimizing both the mass and the energy lost for the standardized urban dynamometer driving schedule (UDDS). The method was based on the use of a 1-D analytical model which was validated by a 2D finite element analysis (FEA).
A Hierarchical Control Strategy for FWID-EVs Based on Multi-Agent with Consideration of Safety and Economy
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Ding Haitao , Guo Konghui , Zhang Niaona
Published: December 2022

In this study, a hierarchical chassis control strategy is designed to enhance vehicle economy and safety for four-wheel independent-drive electric vehicles (FWID-EVs). In the upper-level, a vehicle dynamics model based on multiple agents is proposed, and a distributed model predictive control (DMPC) method is designed to dimensionally solve the problem of tracking the center-of-mass torque of the demanded velocity trajectory and stability parameters. In the bottom-level, a multi-objective torque distribution strategy that weighs safety, dynamics and economy based on multi-agent theory is designed by comprehensively considering the motor efficiency and tire energy loss. Finally, a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation platform is built to verify the method formulated in this paper. The results show that the method in this paper is effective in tracking the desired trajectory and further enhancing the stability of the vehicle under various conditions. Compared with other algorithms, while guaranteeing safety and dynamics, the energy consumption of the powertrain is reduced by 9.51%.
Tropical Forest Disturbance Monitoring Based on Multi-Source Time Series Satellite Images and the LandTrendr Algorithm
Authors: Yin Xiong , Kou Weili , Yun Ting , Gu Xiaowei , Lai Hongyan , Chen Yue , Wu Zhixiang , Chen Bangqian
Published: December 2022

Monitoring disturbances in tropical forests is important for assessing disturbance-related greenhouse gas emissions and the ability of forests to sequester carbon, and for formulating strategies for sustainable forest management. Thanks to a long-term observation history, large spatial coverage, and support from powerful cloud platforms such as Google Earth Engine (GEE), remote sensing is increasingly used to detect forest disturbances. In this study, three types of forest disturbances (abrupt, gradual, and multiple) were identified since the late 1980s on Hainan Island, the largest tropical island in China, using an improved LandTrendr algorithm and a dense time series of Landsat and Sentinel-2 satellite images on the GEE cloud platform. Results show that: (1) the algorithm identified forest disturbances with high accuracy, with the R2 for abrupt and gradual disturbance detection reaching 0.92 and 0.83, respectively; (2) the total area in which forest disturbances occurred on Hainan Island over the past 30 years accounted for 10.84% (2.33 × 105 hm2 in total area, at 0.35% per year) of the total forest area in 2020 and peaked around 2005; (3) the areas of abrupt, gradual, and multiple disturbances were 1.21 × 105 hm2, 9.96 × 104 hm2, and 1.25 × 104 hm2, accounting for 51.93%, 42.75%, and 5.32% of the total disturbed area, respectively; and (4) most forest disturbance occurred in low-lying (<600 m elevation accounts for 97.42%) and gentle (<25° slope accounts for 94.42%) regions, and were mainly caused by the rapid expansion of rubber, eucalyptus, and tropical fruit plantations and natural disasters such as typhoons and droughts. The resulting algorithm and data products provide effective support for assessments of such things as tropical forest productivity and carbon storage on Hainan Island.
Spatial Distribution Pattern of Root Sprouts under the Canopy of Malus sieversii in a Typical River Valley on the Northern Slopes of the Tianshan Mountain
Authors: Li Li , Chen Mengyu , Zhang Xiaoli , Jia Xiang
Published: December 2022

Malus sieversii is a precious wild fruit tree resource, and its sustainable reproduction is of great significance to the conservation of wild fruit tree germplasm resources and the stability of wild fruit forest ecosystems. In recent years, the natural population number and area of distribution of the Malus sieversii have been declining due to pests, water limitations, and human activities. Root sprouts are a primary means of rejuvenation of the Malus sieversii. A reasonable spatial distribution pattern is conducive to the growth of Malus sieversii plants and the ecological restoration of wild fruit forest populations. However, the spatial distribution pattern of root sprouts still needs to be discovered, which constrains our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the damage and management of Malus sieversii. Therefore, this paper examines the study area of the Gilgalang River Malus sieversii forest in Gongliu County, Ili Valley, Xinjiang. The topographic data and high-resolution images were first obtained using ultra-low-altitude photogrammetry and total station measurement techniques, then spatial pattern analysis and standard deviation ellipse analysis were used to investigate the spatial distribution pattern of root sprouts, and, finally, the factors affecting the spatial distribution pattern of root sprouts were investigated by principal component analysis and grey correlation analysis. The results show that: (1) Under-canopy Malus sieversii root sprouts are clustered and randomly distributed along the root system, with the degree of clustering decreasing with increasing distance; (2) Spatial orientation and distance from the maternal plant are the main factor affecting the sprouting of Malus sieversii roots, explaining 73.69% of the total variance; (3) Under sediment accumulation and water erosion, the root sprouts under the canopy are mainly distributed in the downslope direction. The shape is similar to the “clover type”. The results of this study can provide a theoretical basis for conserving Malus sieversii germplasm resources and a solid scientific basis for the ecological restoration of plants under anthropogenic disturbance.
Innovation Perspectives for the Bioeconomy of Non-Timber Forest Products in Brazil
Authors: Afonso Sandra Regina
Published: December 2022

Brazil has great potential for the development of an NTFP bioeconomy as it has 500 million hectares of forest. In this article, I seek to identify, through a literature review, innovations in products and processes inserted in the value chain of Brazilian NTFPs with a greater productive value. The hypothesis is that the prospects for the development of the bioeconomy of NTFPs depend on the establishment of a series of innovations along the value chain and in public policies. The production value of NTFPs reached USD 365 million in 2020 and the main NTFPs were açaí, yerba mate, carnaúba pode, Brazil nut, babassu, and pequi. I observed that the products with the highest production value developed innovations in the cultivation of species and in the development of new products. Innovations related to social and commercial organization have been developed within the scope of working in networks. Several policies were implemented based on the construction of a collective concept for the activity related to the NTFPs, sociobiodiversity. Even so, these actions need to be continued and strengthened for the transition to an inclusive, sustainable bioeconomy that takes into account traditional knowledge. Investment in research needs to be constant for the development of new products. Sustainable planting in diversified systems can also be considered an important strategy. Partnerships between the government and the various actors in the value chains are necessary and urgent to ensure innovations, also in the regulatory and organizational environment of NTFPs’ value chains.
Growth and Influence of White-Rot Fungi on the Chemical Composition of Wheat Straw Inoculated under Varying Pre-Conditions
Authors: Martens Siriwan D. , Wildner Vicki , Greef Jörg M. , Zeyner Annette , Steinhöfel Olaf
Published: December 2022

Solid-state fermentation with white-rot fungi is an interesting alternative to chemical straw treatment for ruminant nutrition. However, for practical implementation on farms, feasible handling and its effect on nutritional characteristics have to be tested beforehand. Chopped wheat straw was either soaked and drained or just remoistened to about 24% dry matter without subsequent sterilization. Moist straw was inoculated with Pleurotus ostreatus, Ceriporiopsis subvermispora, or Volvariella volvacea. Fermentation lasted up to 42 d with weekly or shorter sampling intervals. Fiber fractions, minerals and elements, and non-starch polysaccharides were analyzed, and microflora was plate counted. Lactic acid bacteria of selected samples were identified by MALDI-TOF. All inoculated fungi grew well under the selected conditions expressed by the visible mycelium and specific smell. P. ostreatus developed fruiting bodies in the given time. Initial numbers of lactic acid bacteria were >8.0 log cfu/g. In the beginning, Weissella confusa/cibaria dominated. However, neither decrease in lignin nor cellulose concentration was observed during the period in either of the treatments, thus seeming to be inappropriate for ruminant nutrition purposes. Some elements and minerals peaked, especially towards the second and third week (Na, Cl, Mg, Fe, and Mn). Growth conditions for mushrooms were optimized by remoistening the straw with a defined amount of water.
Pyrrolizidine Alkaloid Extraction and Analysis: Recent Updates
Authors: Al-Subaie Sarah F. , Alowaifeer Abdullah M. , Mohamed Maged E.
Published: December 2022

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are natural secondary metabolites that are mainly produced in plants, bacteria, and fungi as a part of an organism’s defense machinery. These compounds constitute the largest class of alkaloids and are produced in nearly 3% of flowering plants, most of which belong to the Asteraceae and Boraginaceae families. Chemically, pyrrolizidine alkaloids are esters of the amino alcohol necine (which consists of two fused five-membered rings including a nitrogen atom) and one or more units of necic acids. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are toxic to humans and mammals; thus, the ability to detect these alkaloids in food and nutrients is a matter of food security. The latest advances in the extraction and analysis of this class of alkaloids are summarized in this review, with special emphasis on chromatographic-based analysis and determinations in food.
Microarray Analysis Reveals Changes in tRNA-Derived Small RNAs (tsRNAs) Expression in Mice with Septic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Yuan Ludong , Tang Yuting , Yin Leijing , Lin Xiaofang , Luo Zhengyang , Wang Shuxin , Li Jing , Liang Pengfei , Jiang Bimei
Published: December 2022

Background: tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) as a novel non-coding RNA have been studied in many cardiovascular diseases, but the relationship between tsRNAs and septic cardiomyopathy has not been investigated. We sought to analyze changes of the expression profile of tsRNAs in septic cardiomyopathy and reveal an important role for tsRNAs. Methods: We constructed a sepsis model by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in mice, and microarray analysis was used to find differentially expressed tsRNAs. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to verify the expression of tsRNAs and the interference effect of angiogenin (ANG), a key nuclease producing tsRNAs. Bioinformatics analysis was used to predict target genes and functions. CCK-8 and LDH release assays were used to detect cell viability and cell death. Results: A total of 158 tsRNAs were screened, of which 101 were up-regulated and 57 were down-regulated. A total of 8 tsRNAs were verified by qPCR, which was consistent with microarray results. Gene Ontology (GO) annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses suggest that these tsRNAs may be associated with the Wnt signaling pathway and participate in cellular process. The expression of tsRNAs decreased after the interference of the key nuclease ANG, while CCK-8 suggested a corresponding decrease in cell viability and an increase in the release of LDH (cell death), indicating that tsRNAs can protect cardiomyocytes during the development of septic cardiomyopathy, reduced cardiomyocyte death. Conclusions: A total of 158 tsRNAs changed significantly in septic cardiomyopathy, and these tsRNAs may play a protective role in the development of septic cardiomyopathy.