bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Islet Xenotransplantation: Development of Isolation Protocol, Anti-Rejection Strategies, and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Matsumoto Shinichi , Matsumoto Kyohei
Published: May 2024

Allogeneic islet transplantation has become a standard therapy for unstable type 1 diabetes. However, considering the large number of type 1 diabetic patients, the shortage of donors is a serious issue. To address this issue, clinical islet xenotransplantation is conducted. The first clinical islet xenotransplantation was performed by a Swedish team using fetal pancreatic tissue. Thereafter, clinical trials of islet xenotransplantation were conducted in New Zealand, Russia, Mexico, Argentina, and China using neonatal pig islets. In clinical trials, fetal or neonatal pancreata are used because of the established reliable islet isolation methods. These trials demonstrate the method’s safety and efficacy. Currently, the limited number of source animal facilities is a problem in terms of promoting islet xenotransplantation. This limitation is due to the high cost of source animal facilities and the uncertain future of xenotransplantation. In the United States, the first xenogeneic heart transplantation has been performed, which could promote xenotransplantation. In Japan, to enhance xenotransplantation, the ‘Medical Porcine Development Association’ has been established. We hope that xenogeneic transplantation will become a clinical reality, serving to address the shortage of donors.
CBFA2T3 Is PPARA Sensitive and Attenuates Fasting-Induced Lipid Accumulation in Mouse Liver
Authors: Kim Donghwan , Ha Sang Keun , Gonzalez Frank J.
Published: May 2024

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARA) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that is a key mediator of lipid metabolism and metabolic stress in the liver. Accumulating evidence shows that PPARA regulates the expression of various protein coding and non-coding genes that modulate metabolic stress in the liver. CBFA2/RUNX1 partner transcriptional co-repressor 3 (CBFA2T3) is a DNA-binding transcription factor that belongs to the myeloid translocation gene family. Many studies have shown that CBFA2T3 is associated with acute myeloid leukemia. Especially, CBFA2T3–GLIS2 fusion is a chimeric oncogene associated with a poor survival rate in pediatric acute megakaryocytic leukemia. A previous study identified that PPARA activation promoted Cbfa2t3 induction in liver and that Cbfa2t3 may have a modulatory role in metabolic stress. However, the effect of CBFA2T3 gene expression on metabolic stress is not understood. In this study, the PPARA ligand WY14643 activated Cbfa2t3 expression in mouse liver. Glucose tolerance test and insulin tolerance test data showed that insulin resistance is increased in Cbfa2t3−/− mice compared to Cbfa2t3+/+ mice. Hepatic CBFA2T3 modulates heat shock protein family A member 1b and carbonic anhydrase 5a expression. Histology analysis revealed lipid droplet and lipid accumulation in the liver of fasting Cbfa2t3−/− mice but not Cbfa2t3+/+ mice. The expression of lipid accumulation-related genes, such as Cd36, Cidea, and Fabp1, was increased in the liver of fasting Cbfa2t3−/− mice. Especially, basal expression levels of Cidea mRNA were elevated in the liver of Cbfa2t3−/− mice compared to Cbfa2t3+/+ mice. Much higher induction of Cidea mRNA was seen in the liver of Cbfa2t3−/− mice after WY14643 administration. These results indicate that hepatic CBFA2T3 is a PPARA-sensitive gene that may modulate metabolic stress in mouse liver.
Higher Concentrations of Essential Trace Elements in Women Undergoing IVF May Be Associated with Poor Reproductive Outcomes Following Single Euploid Embryo Transfer
Authors: Gonzalez-Martin Roberto , Palomar Andrea , Perez-Deben Silvia , Salsano Stefania , Quiñonero Alicia , Caracena Laura , Fernandez-Saavedra Rocio , Fernandez-Martinez Rodolfo , Conde-Vilda Estefania , Quejido Alberto J. , Giles Juan , Vidal Carmen , Bellver Jose , Dominguez Francisco
Published: May 2024

Essential trace elements are micronutrients whose deficiency has been associated with altered fertility and/or adverse pregnancy outcomes, while surplus may be toxic. The concentrations of eight essential trace elements were measured using inductively coupled mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and assessed with respect to clinical in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes in a population of 51 women undergoing IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), pre-implantation genetic screening for aneuploidy (PGT-A), and single frozen euploid embryo transfer (SET/FET). Specifically, copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), molybdenum, selenium, lithium, iron, chromium, and manganese were quantified in follicular fluid and whole blood collected the day of vaginal oocyte retrieval (VOR) and in urine collected the day of VOR and embryo transfer. We found that the whole blood Cu/Zn ratio was significantly associated with superior responses to ovarian stimulation. Conversely, the whole blood zinc and selenium concentrations were significantly associated with poor ovarian response outcomes. Higher levels of whole blood zinc and selenium, urinary selenium, lithium, and iron had significant negative associations with embryologic outcomes following IVF. Regarding clinical IVF outcomes, higher urinary molybdenum concentrations the day of VOR were associated with significantly lower odds of implantation and live birth, while higher urinary Cu/Mo ratios on the day of VOR were associated with significantly higher odds of implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth. Our results suggest that essential trace element levels may directly influence the IVF outcomes of Spanish patients, with selenium and molybdenum exerting negative effects and copper-related ratios exerting positive effects. Additional studies are warranted to confirm these relationships in other human populations.
Chronic Pediatric Headache as a Manifestation of Shunt Over-Drainage and Slit Ventricle Syndrome in Patients Harboring a Cerebrospinal Fluid Diversion System: A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Panagopoulos Dimitrios , Gavra Maro , Boviatsis Efstathios , Korfias Stefanos , Themistocleous Marios
Published: May 2024

The main subject of the current review is a specific subtype of headache, which is related to shunt over-drainage and slit ventricle syndrome, in pediatric patients harboring an implanted shunt device for the management of hydrocephalus. This clinical entity, along with its impairment regarding the quality of life of the affected individuals, is generally underestimated. This is partly due to the absence of universally agreed-upon diagnostic criteria, as well as due to a misunderstanding of the interactions among the implicated pathophysiological mechanisms. A lot of attempts have been performed to propose an integrative model, aiming at the determination of all the offending mechanisms of the shunt over-drainage syndrome, as well as the determination of all the clinical characteristics and related symptomatology that accompany these secondary headaches. This subcategory of headache, named postural dependent headache, can be associated with nausea, vomiting, and/or radiological signs of slim ventricles and/or subdural collections. The ultimate goal of our review is to draw clinicians’ attention, especially that of those that are managing pediatric patients with permanent, long-standing, ventriculoperitoneal, or, less commonly, ventriculoatrial shunts. We attempted to elucidate all clinical and neurological characteristics that are inherently related to this type of headache, as well as to highlight the current management options. This specific subgroup of patients may eventually suffer from severe, intractable headaches, which may negatively impair their quality of daily living. In the absence of any other clinical condition that could be incriminated as the cause of the headache, shunt over-drainage should not be overlooked. On the contrary, it should be seriously taken into consideration, and its management should be added to the therapeutic armamentarium of such cases, which are difficult to be handled.
A Manufacturing Method for High-Reliability Multilayer Flexible Electronics by Electrohydrodynamic Printing
Authors: Li Geng , Wang Shang , Wen Jiayue , Wang Shujun , Sun Yuxin , Feng Jiayun , Tian Yanhong
Published: May 2024

To meet the demand for higher performance and wearability, integrated circuits are developing towards having multilayered structures and greater flexibility. However, traditional circuit fabrication methods using etching and lamination processes are not compatible with flexible substrates. As a non-contact printing method in additive manufacturing, electrohydrodynamic printing possesses advantages such as environmental friendliness, sub-micron manufacturing, and the capability for flexible substrates. However, the interconnection and insulation of different conductive layers become significant challenges. This study took composite silver ink as a conductive material to fabricate a circuit via electrohydrodynamic printing, applied polyimide spraying to achieve interlayer insulation, and drilled micro through-holes to achieve interlayer interconnection. A 200 × 200 mm2 ten-layer flexible circuit was thus prepared. Furthermore, we combined a finite element simulation with reliability experiments, and the prepared ten-layer circuit was found to have excellent bending resistance and thermal cycling stability. This study provides a new method for the manufacturing of low-cost, large-sized, multilayer flexible circuits, which can improve circuit performance and boost the development of printed electronics.
Alkaline Fading of Malachite Green in β-Cyclodextrins
Authors: Soria-Lopez Anton , Rodriguez-Fernández Raquel , Mejuto Juan C.
Published: May 2024

The basic hydrolysis of Malachite Green (MG) in the presence of β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) has been studied using UV-Vis spectroscopic techniques and at 20 °C. β-CD was found to catalyze the basic hydrolysis. Indeed, this basic hydrolysis is catalyzed by the interaction cyclodextrin hydroxyl group, in its deprotonated form with the carbocation in the host-guest complex. The proposed model has been successfully applied to a reaction catalyzed by CD. It considers two simultaneous pathways in the aqueous medium involving free hydroxyl ions and the substrate-CD complex. The model allows us to obtain the kinetic parameters including the bimolecular rate constant between MG and HO− in bulk water (kw = 1.47 ± 0.01 mol−1s−1), the rate constant between MG and the deprotonated hydroxyl group of β-CD inside the host-guest complex (kCD = 0.25 ± 0.03 s−1) and the binding constant of MG inside the β-CD (KS = 2500 ± 50). This behavior is like the hydrolysis of Cristal Violet (CV) in the same reaction media.
An Optimization Model for Flight Rescheduling from an Airport’s Centralized Perspective for Better Management of Demand and Capacity Utilization
Authors: Seifi Abbas , Ponnambalam Kumaraswamy , Kudiakova Anna , Aultman-Hall Lisa
Published: May 2024

Over-capacity flight scheduling by commercial airlines due to the surging demand in recent years creates congestion and significant delays at major airports. This attitude towards maximizing throughput calls for tactical flight rescheduling to comply with airports’ capacity limitations and distribute the peak hour demand over the course of a day. Such displacements of flights may cause significant problems and costs for airlines and some cancellations or missed connections for passengers. This paper presents an optimization model for flight rescheduling at a schedule-coordinated airport to minimize congestion and flight delays at peak hours. The optimization model is used to make better scheduling intervention decisions considering airport resource constraints and safety of operation. A simulation algorithm is also developed to replicate arrival and departure processes in such an airport. The simulation adheres to a first come first served (FCFS) discipline and enforces runway capacity constraints and minimum turnaround times. We compare the delays caused by an ad hoc FCFS operation with those of the optimization model. Computational results from a case study demonstrate that a reduction of 52.6% and 61% in total delay times for arrival and departure flights, respectively, can be achieved. The optimization model also facilitates the implementation of a collaborative decision-making system for better coordination of airport traffic flow management with commercial airlines.
Assessing the Legibility of Arabic Road Signage Using Eye Gazing and Cognitive Loading Metrics
Authors: Lataifeh Mohammad , Ahmed Naveed , Elbardawil Shaima , Gordani Somayeh
Published: May 2024

This research study aimed to evaluate the legibility of Arabic road signage using an eye-tracking approach within a virtual reality (VR) environment. The study was conducted in a controlled setting involving 20 participants who watched two videos using the HP Omnicept Reverb G2. The VR device recorded eye gazing details in addition to other physiological data of the participants, providing an overlay of heart rate, eye movement, and cognitive load, which in combination were used to determine the participants’ focus during the experiment. The data were processed through a schematic design, and the final files were saved in .txt format, which was later used for data extraction and analysis. Through the execution of this study, it became apparent that employing eye-tracking technology within a VR setting offers a promising method for assessing the legibility of road signs. The outcomes of the current research enlightened the vital role of legibility in ensuring road safety and facilitating effective communication with drivers. Clear and easily comprehensible road signs were found to be pivotal in delivering timely information, aiding navigation, and ultimately mitigating accidents or confusion on the road. As a result, this study advocates for the utilization of VR as a valuable platform for enhancing the design and functionality of road signage systems, recognizing its potential to contribute significantly to the improvement of road safety and navigation for drivers.
Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 on Subjective Well-Being and Quality of Life in Mexico: Insights from Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Mendoza-Martínez Ignacio Alejandro , Marroquín-Tovar Edmundo , Rivas-Díaz Jorge Pablo , Durand Araceli , Sauri-Alpuche Gustavo Enrique , Garcia-Rivera Blanca Rosa
Published: May 2024

Amid the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, the living conditions of the population were dramatically altered, with social distancing measures and the looming threat to public health leaving a profound impact on people’s lives. This study aims to assess the influence of COVID-19 on subjective well-being and overall quality of life in Mexico. A structural model with latent variables was used. Data were extracted from the National Self-Reported Well-being Survey (SWLS) from October 2020 and January 2021, featuring a robust sample size of 3615 residents from urban areas in Mexico, all aged 18 and above. Findings revealed that around 38% of the variance in overall life satisfaction in October 2020 and January 2021 could be attributed to Personal well-being (0.231), Personal satisfaction (0.320), Satisfaction with the environment (0.076), and Negative emotional states (−0.116). In comparison, October 2019 to January 2020 saw a lower 20% explained variance, primarily associated with Personal well-being (0.184), Personal satisfaction (0.270), and Satisfaction with the environment (0.052). Reliability assessments, including Cronbach’s Alpha coefficients, Rho_a, and Composite Reliability, all surpassed 0.70 for each subscale. In addition, our study confirmed convergent validity, as the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) consistently exceeded 0.50 across all subscales, while the discriminant coefficient exceeded 0.70.
Ozone-Assisted Hydrothermal Synthesis Method of Sb-Doped SnO2 Conductive Nanoparticles for Carbon-Free Oxygen-Reduction-Reaction Catalysts of Proton-Exchange-Membrane Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Authors: Fukuda Takeshi , Iimura Kenji , Yamamoto Takanori , Tsuji Ryuki , Tanabe Maito , Nakashima Seiji , Fukumuro Naoki , Ito Seigo
Published: May 2024

Proton-exchange-membrane hydrogen fuel cells (PEMFCs) are an important energy device for achieving a sustainable hydrogen society. Carbon-based catalysts used in PEMFCs’ cathode can degrade significantly during operation-voltage shifts due to the carbon deterioration. The longer lifetime of the system is necessary for the further wide commercialization of PEMFCs. Therefore, carbon-free catalysts are required for PEMFCs. In this study, highly crystallized conducting Sb-doped SnO2 (Sb-SnO2) nanoparticles (smaller than 7 nm in size) were synthesized using an ozone-assisted hydrothermal synthesis. Pt nanoparticles were loaded on Sb-SnO2 supporting particles by polyol method to be “Pt/Sb-SnO2 catalyst”. The Pt/Sb-SnO2 catalyst showed a high oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) mass activity (178.3 A g-Pt−1 @ 0.9 V), compared to Pt/C (149.3 A g-Pt−1 @ 0.9 V). In addition, the retention ratio from the initial value of electrochemical surface area (ECSA) during 100,000-voltage cycles tests between 1.0 V and 1.5 V, Pt/SnO2 and Pt/Sb-SnO2 catalyst exhibited higher stability (90% and 80%), respectively, than that of Pt/C catalyst (47%). Therefore, the SnO2 and Sb-SnO2 nanoparticles synthesized using this new ozone-assisted hydrothermal method are promising as carbon-free catalyst supports for PEMFCs.
Cranial Computer Tomography with Photon Counting and Energy-Integrated Detectors: Objective Comparison in the Same Patients
Authors: Klempka Anna , Schröder Alexander , Neumayer Philipp , Groden Christoph , Clausen Sven , Hetjens Svetlana
Published: May 2024

This study provides an objective comparison of cranial computed tomography (CT) imaging quality and radiation dose between photon counting detectors (PCCTs) and energy-integrated detectors (EIDs). We retrospectively analyzed 158 CT scans from 76 patients, employing both detector types on the same individuals to ensure a consistent comparison. Our analysis focused on the Computed Tomography Dose Index and the Dose-Length Product together with the contrast-to-noise ratio and the signal-to-noise ratio for brain gray and white matter. We utilized standardized imaging protocols and consistent patient positioning to minimize variables. PCCT showed a potential for higher image quality and lower radiation doses, as highlighted by this study, thus achieving diagnostic clarity with reduced radiation exposure, underlining its significance in patient care, particularly for patients requiring multiple scans. The results demonstrated that while both systems were effective, PCCT offered enhanced imaging and patient safety in neuroradiological evaluations.
Survey of Nutrition Knowledge, Attitudes, and Preferred Informational Sources among Students at a Southwestern University in the United States: A Brief Report
Authors: Geist Caroline H. , Hildebrand Deana , Keirns Bryant H. , Emerson Sam R.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate nutrition perspectives, basic nutrition knowledge, and preferred sources of nutrition information among students at a southwestern university in the US. An original online survey was used to evaluate common sources of nutrition information, factors viewed as comprising a healthy dietary pattern, and attitudes toward nutrition information and recommendations. A total of 316 participants completed the survey. Prioritizing fruits and vegetables was the most common response (97%) for characterizing healthy eating. When asked which factors characterize a non-healthy pattern of eating, eating sweets was the top response (83%). The most common sources of nutrition information reported were word of mouth/friends and family (56%), followed by social media (45%). The majority felt that nutrition recommendations are constantly changing (78%) and that nutrition information is confusing (55%). Our data indicate that most students rely primarily on informal sources of nutrition information. However, our preliminary data also suggest that many students have a fair understanding of basic principles of healthy eating. More research in a broader and more diverse sample is needed to validate these findings.
A Low-Cost Protocol Using the Adjunctive Action of Povidone–Iodine Irrigations and Sodium Hypochlorite Rinsing Solution in Step 2 of Periodontal Therapy for Patients with Stage III–IV Periodontitis: A Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kardaras Georgios , Christodorescu Ruxandra , Boariu Marius , Rusu Darian , Belova Alla , Chinnici Salvatore , Vela Octavia , Radulescu Viorelia , Boia Simina , Stratul Stefan-Ioan
Published: May 2024

In severe stages of periodontitis, conventional periodontal therapy and maintenance care are usually insufficient due to the viral and bacterial etiology; thus, a mechanical approach alone may not be sufficient to eliminate a substantial portion of subgingival pathogens, especially in deep periodontal sites. Background and Objectives: This single-blind, randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the clinical and microbiological efficacy of a low-cost protocol using povidone–iodine and sodium hypochlorite formulations as adjuncts to non-surgical therapy for patients with stage IV periodontitis when compared with chlorhexidine, the most commonly employed substance to date for antimicrobial regimens in periodontal therapy. Materials and Methods: Forty-five patients were randomly divided into two groups: control (subgingival instrumentation, chlorhexidine-assisted) and test (antiviral medication, subgingival instrumentation with povidone–iodine, sodium hypochlorite rinsing solution, and antibiotics). Clinical measurements and microbiological analyses were performed at baseline and after three months. Results: After three months, notable differences were found in the bacterial detection scores for Porphyromonas gingivalis (a significant reduction in detection frequency was observed in the test compared to the control (p = 0.021)), and there were significant reductions in detection in the test group for Tannerella forsythia and Treponema denticola, showing undetectable levels (p < 0.0001 for both). In the test group, the pocket probing depth median value was reduced significantly (p = 0.0005); similarly, bleeding on probing showed a marked decrease (p < 0.0001). However, changes in clinical attachment loss and full-mouth plaque score were not statistically significant. Conclusions: Using the proposed protocol, substantial improvements in clinical and microbiological parameters were obtained when compared with the current antimicrobial recommendations.
Dynamics of Vortex Structures: From Planets to Black Hole Accretion Disks
Authors: Tito Elizabeth P. , Pavlov Vadim I.
Published: May 2024

Thermo-vortices (bright spots, blobs, swirls) in cosmic fluids (planetary atmospheres, or even black hole accretion disks) are sometimes observed as clustered into quasi-symmetrical quasi-stationary groups but conceptualized in models as autonomous items. We demonstrate—using the (analytical) Sharp Boundaries Evolution Method and a generic model of a thermo-vorticial field in a rotating “thin” fluid layer in a spacetime that may be curved or flat—that these thermo-vortices may be not independent but represent interlinked parts of a single, coherent, multi-petal macro-structure. This alternative conceptualization may influence the designs of numerical models and image-reconstruction methods.
Differences in Waterbird Communities between Years Indicate the Positive Effects of Pen Culture Removal in Caizi Lake, a Typical Yangtze-Connected Lake
Authors: Liu Tengteng , Cheng Lin , Song Xiangrong , Zhang Hong , Wang Guangyao , Li Chunlin
Published: May 2024

Considering the negative effects of wetland degradation, various measures have been implemented to restore wetland habitats for aquatic organisms, and their effectiveness levels must be assessed. To reduce the effects of aquaculture on aquatic communities, pen culture facilities, which are widely distributed in Yangtze-connected lakes, were removed in 2018. We surveyed and compared waterbird communities in Caizi Lake during the four months before (2017–2018) and after net pen removal (2021–2022) to evaluate their effect on the diversity and species composition of wintering waterbirds. After net pen removal, the richness and number of individual waterbird species increased, whereas the Shannon–Wiener diversity index did not change because the increase in the bird number throughout the year was mostly associated with a few species. The response of individual numbers of different guilds to the removal of net pens differed. The number of deep-water fish eaters, seed eaters, and tuber feeders increased, whereas that of invertebrate eaters decreased. The species composition also changed, particularly in the northeastern and southwestern parts of the lake. Differences in waterbird communities between the winters of 2017–2018 and 2021–2022 indicated that net pen removal had a positive impact on waterbird communities.
Digital Economy Development, Common Prosperity, and Carbon Emissions: An Empirical Study in China
Authors: Gao Jingke , Zhou Wenxiao , Cheng Jinhua , Liu Ziyuan
Published: May 2024

Under the new development model, the digital economy has become a new engine to promote the green development of the economy and realize the goal of “double carbon”. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2010 to 2020, this paper empirically investigates the impact of the development of the digital economy on energy and carbon emissions using a series of econometric models such as baseline regression, a mechanism test, and the spatial Durbin model, etc. Common prosperity plays an intermediary role between digital economy development and carbon emissions; digital economic development optimizes resource allocation, effectively solves the problem of uneven resource distribution, and reduces energy and carbon emissions while achieving common prosperity. In addition, green innovation, industrial structure, urbanization level, R&D intensity, and the degree of marketization also have different degrees of influence on energy and carbon emissions. Therefore, the government should accelerate the construction of new digital infrastructure and implement the digital economy development strategy according to local conditions, so as to promote the digital economy to produce a more significant carbon emission reduction effect.
What Are the Important Qualities and Abilities of Future Doctors? A Nationwide Attitude Survey in Japan
Authors: Otaki Junji , Watanabe Yoko , Harada Yoshimi , Mitoma Hiroshi
Published: May 2024

What qualities and abilities are appropriate for a person who plans to become a doctor? To answer this question, it is meaningful to understand the opinions of the general public, since they are important stakeholders in the training of doctors. As part of a national door-to-door questionnaire survey, participants were asked about 16 qualities and abilities they considered suitable for becoming a doctor. Of the 1200 people interviewed, 1190 responded. The ratio of affirmative answers was the highest (92.2%) for the “Accurately judges situations” element, followed by “Cares about others’ feelings” (87.4%), “Understands the reality of medical care and welfare” (87.2%), and “Resistant to mental stress” (86.2%). “High academic ability”, which is currently the most important factor in the actual selection of students, ranked ninth among the sixteen elements (71.8%). Aside from academic ability, the general public places importance on other factors in selecting students for admission to medical schools. This study provides a valuable reference for medical schools regarding admission policies and applicant selection processes.
Evaluating Preparedness and Overcoming Challenges in Electricity Trading: An In-Depth Analysis Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process and a Case Study Exploration
Authors: Regmi Suraj , Rayamajhi Abhinav , Poudyal Ramhari , Adhikari Sanjeev
Published: May 2024

The economy of South Asia is experiencing growth, yet it faces constraints due to heavy reliance on fossil fuels and frequent power outages. Access to diverse energy sources, particularly electricity, is crucial for sustaining this growth. One feasible solution involves neighbouring countries engaging in the trade of renewable electrical energy. Hydropower stands as one of the many energy sources available in South Asia. However, sectorial constraints pose significant challenges to energy trade initiatives. This study utilises the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to evaluate Nepal’s readiness and identify obstacles to its cross-border energy trade with India and Bangladesh. A comprehensive analysis of these obstacles is imperative for formulating effective strategies and policies. Additionally, this study offers recommendations for enhancing preparedness and resolving issues related to energy trading, which may apply to similar cross-border situations. This study ranks energy trading obstacles with neighbouring nations using the AHP, offering key insights for stakeholders and policymakers. Using a non-probabilistic purposeful sampling technique, 25 expert respondents from the energy sector and prominent academicians were selected as part of the data collection procedure. At every level of the interview process, their perspectives were invaluable in guaranteeing a thorough and rigorous investigation.
A Multiplexing Optical Temperature Sensing System for Induction Motors Using Few-Mode Fiber Spatial Mode Diversity
Authors: Liu Feng , Gu Tianle , Chen Weicheng
Published: May 2024

Induction motors are widely applied in motor drive systems. Effective temperature monitoring is one of the keys to ensuring the reliability and optimal performance of the motors. Therefore, this paper introduces a multiplexed optical temperature sensing system for induction motors based on few-mode fiber (FMF) spatial mode diversity. By using the spatial mode dimension of FMF, fiber Bragg grating (FBG) carried by different spatial modes of optical paths is embedded in different positions of the motor to realize multipoint synchronous multiplexing temperature monitoring. The paper establishes and demonstrates a photonic lantern-based mode division sensing system for motor temperature monitoring. As a proof of concept, the system demonstrates experiments in multiplexed temperature sensing for motor stators using the fundamental mode LP01 and high-order spatial modes LP11, LP21, and LP02. The FBG sensitivity carried by the above mode is 0.0107 nm/°C, 0.0106 nm/°C, 0.0097 nm/°C, and 0.0116 nm/°C, respectively. The dynamic temperature changes in the stator at different positions of the motor under speeds of 1k rpm, 1.5k rpm, 2k rpm with no load, 3 kg load, and 5 kg load, as well as at three specific speed–load combinations of 1.5k rpm_3 kg, 1k rpm_0kg, 2k rpm_5 kg and so on are measured, and the measured results of different spatial modes are compared and analyzed. The findings indicate that different spatial modes can accurately reflect temperature variations at various positions in motor stator winding.
Reinforcement of DC Electrified Railways by a Modular Battery Energy Storage System
Authors: da Silveira Brito Erick Matheus , Ladoux Philippe , Fabre Joseph , Sonier Benoit
Published: May 2024

DC railway electrification was deployed at the beginning of the 20th century in several countries in Europe. Today, this power system is no longer adapted to the demands of increased rail traffic. Due to the relatively low voltage level, the current consumed by the trains reaches several kAs. So, in the worst case, the locomotives cannot operate at their rated power due to the voltage drop along the contact line. Conventional solutions to reduce the voltage drop consist of increasing the cross-section of overhead lines or reducing the length of sectors by installing additional substations. Nevertheless, these solutions are expensive and not always feasible. The implementation of a Modular Battery Energy Storage System (MBESS) can be an alternative solution to reinforce the railway power supply. This paper first presents an MBESS based on elementary blocks associating Full-SiC Isolated DC-DC converter and battery racks. The electrical models of a railway sector and an elementary block are described, and simulations are performed considering real railroad traffic on two sectors of the French National Rail Network, electrified at 1.5 kV. The results show that the installation of an MBESS in the railway sector boosts the locomotive’s voltage while also increasing overall system efficiency.
Exploring Reddit Community Structure: Bridges, Gateways and Highways
Authors: Sawicki Jan , Ganzha Maria
Published: May 2024

Multiple research directions have been proposed to study the information structure of Reddit. One of them is to model inter-subreddit relations but modeling user interactions in the form of a graph. Building upon prior work centered on political subreddits using pre-2020 data, we expand this investigation to include a more extensive dataset spanning 2022 and encompassing diverse topic areas. Employing NLP techniques such as text embeddings, we model subreddit content directly and construct a subreddit graph network based on cosine similarity. Community detection using the Louvain method reveals distinct subreddits and allows the analysis of inter-community connections via previous works’ concepts of “bridges” and “gateways”. Surprisingly, our findings indicate redundancy between bridges and gateways in the utilized dataset. Therefore, we introduce a new concept, “highways”. Highways, representing the most traversed paths between subreddits, unveil insights not captured by previous analyses, underscoring the significance of novel conceptual frameworks in uncovering latent knowledge within Reddit’s online community structures.
CE-PBFT: An Optimized PBFT Consensus Algorithm for Microgrid Power Trading
Authors: Ding Xu , Lu Haihua , Cheng Lanxian
Published: May 2024

Currently, in the blockchain-based distributed microgrid trading system, there are some problems, such as low throughput, high delay, and a high communication overhead. To this end, an improved Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT) algorithm (CE-PBFT) suitable for microgrid power trading is proposed. First, a node credit value calculation model is introduced, and nodes are divided into consensus, supervisory, and propagation nodes according to their credit values, forming a hierarchical network structure to ensure the efficiency and reliability of consensus. Secondly, the consensus process is optimized by adopting a segmented consensus mechanism. This approach calculates the consensus rounds for nodes and selects the methods for node-type switching and consensus based on these calculations, reaching dynamic changes in node states and credit values, effectively reducing the communication overhead of node consensus. Finally, the experiments show that compared with the IMPBFT and PBFT algorithms, the CE-PBFT algorithm has better performance in throughput, delay, and communication overhead, with a 22% higher average throughput and 15% lower average delay than the IMPBFT algorithm and a 118% higher average throughput and 87% lower average delay than the PBFT algorithm.
Experimental Investigation of Parameters Influencing the Formation of Dry Bands and Related Electric Field
Authors: Andoh Marc-Alain , Volat Christophe
Published: May 2024

This paper presents an experimental investigation conducted to determine the influence of parameters such as the ambient temperature, pollution level, and substrate material on the formation of dry bands on polluted layers. To investigate these parameters, we applied a simplified insulator geometry, developed in our previous work, to experimentally control the complex process of dry band formation on a polluted surface. The simple geometry of the experimental model enabled the use of Plexiglas, RTV, and glass as construction substrate materials. RTV and glass were used to simulate a composite and ceramic insulator surface, respectively. Moreover, an electrooptic (EO) probe enabled the measurement of the axial E-field evolution at the surface of the dry band during dry band formation. The results indicated that the substrate material, ambient temperature, and pollution level substantially influence dry band formation. The effects of the first two parameters are directly associated with heat transfer phenomena in the substrate material and at the ambient air/substrate interface. The effect of the third parameter is associated with absorption and evaporation of the pollution layer. In addition, the appearance of the dry band can be clearly identified by a rapid increase in both the pollution layer resistance and the axial E-field in the dry band area. The value of the axial E-field is influenced primarily by the width of the dry band and by the pollution layer resistance, which is directly dependent on the humidification duration. Finally, because most of the results obtained herein were in accordance with those in the literature, we conclude that the proposed experimental model may provide an effective and inexpensive testing method for developing new materials and solutions for improving the dielectric performance of insulators used in polluted environments. Similarly, the simple geometry of the experimental model and the ability to easily control the experimental parameters may enable this tool to validate the results of various numerical models in studies of the thermoelectrical behavior of polluted insulators.
Sizing Energy Storage Systems to Dispatch Wind Power Plants
Authors: Xia Bingqing , Wu Mingqi , Yang Wenbin , Chen Qing , Xiang Ji
Published: May 2024

Integrating wind power plants into the electricity grid poses challenges due to the intermittent nature of wind energy generation. Energy storage systems (ESSs) have shown promise in mitigating the intermittent variability associated with wind power. This paper presents a distributionally robust optimization (DRO) model for sizing energy storage systems to dispatch wind power plants. The variable wind power is formulated as a moment-based ambiguity set. Dispatchability is described by the expected value of the insufficient power of wind power relative to the dispatch command, which is a sum of nonlinear functions and is taken as the optimal index. A deterministic semi-definite positive model is derived to solve the problem effectively. Numerical studies are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed method.
Correction: Das et al. Comparative Life-Cycle Assessment of Electricity-Generation Technologies: West Texas Case Study. Energies 2024, 17, 992
Authors: Das Jani , Ur Rehman Atta , Verma Rahul , Gulen Gurcan , Young Michael H.
Published: May 2024

We discovered a minor mistake in our modeling of the lithium component of the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) that was used in this manuscript [...]
Optimization of Renewable Energy Hydrogen Production Systems Using Volatility Improved Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Algorithm
Authors: Wang Hui , Chen Xiaowen , Yang Qianpeng , Li Bowen , Yue Zongyu , Ampah Jeffrey Dankwa , Liu Haifeng , Yao Mingfa
Published: May 2024

Optimizing the energy structure to effectively enhance the integration level of renewable energy is an important pathway for achieving dual carbon goals. This study utilizes an improved multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm based on load fluctuation rates to optimize the architecture and unit capacity of hydrogen production systems. It investigates the optimal configuration methods for the architectural model of new energy hydrogen production systems in Xining City, Qinghai Province, as well as the internal storage battery, ALK hydrogen production equipment, and PEM hydrogen production equipment, aiming at various scenarios of power sources such as wind, solar, wind–solar complementary, and wind–solar–storage complementary, as well as intermittent hydrogen production scenarios such as hydrogen stations, hydrogen metallurgy, and continuous hydrogen production scenarios such as hydrogen methanol production. The results indicate that the fluctuation of hydrogen load scenarios has a significant impact on the installed capacity and initial investment of the system. Compared with the single-channel photovoltaic hydrogen production scheme, the dual-channel hydrogen production scheme still reduces equipment capacity by 6.04% and initial investment by 6.16% in the chemical hydrogen scenario with the least load fluctuation.
Theoretical and Experimental Research on Thermal Dynamic Characteristics of Single-Screw Compressor with a New Composite SLIDE Valve
Authors: Liu Shanwei , Zhi Ruiping , Wu Yuting , Lu Yuanwei , Lei Biao , Ma Chongfang
Published: May 2024

Based on the single-screw compressor (SSC) structure, a new type of composite slide valve (CSV) has been proposed and designed, featuring internal volume ratios of 2.8, 3.9, and 5.6 and operating under a partial load of 35%. The theoretical model describing the dynamic features and thermodynamic performance of the SSC with CSV has also been built. The pressure ratio of the experimental system can be adjusted from 3.3 to 7.8, and the experimental results demonstrate the CSV’s effective performance. The deviations between the calculated and measured results for volume ratio and input power are 3.33–9.08% and 0.32–8.03%, and the deviations for heating capacity and adiabatic efficiency range from 0.92–8.73% to 2.09–9.67%, respectively. The introduction of the CSV offers a novel approach to enhancing SSC efficiency. Both the theoretical and experimental findings lay a foundation for future optimization and design improvements in variable load and internal volumetric ratio single-screw compressors.
Policy Assessment for Energy Transition to Zero- and Low-Emission Technologies in Pickup Trucks: Evidence from Mexico
Authors: Garcia Julieth Stefany , Cárdenas Laura Milena , Morcillo Jose Daniel , Franco Carlos Jaime
Published: May 2024

The transport sector is under scrutiny because of its significant greenhouse gas emissions. Essential strategies, particularly the adoption of zero- and low-emission vehicles powered by electricity, are crucial for mitigating emissions in road transport. Pickups, which are integral to Mexico’s fleet, contribute to such emissions. Thus, implementing effective policies targeting pickups is vital for reducing air pollution and aligning with Mexico’s decarbonization objectives. This paper presents a simulation model based on system dynamics to represent the adoption process of zero- and low-emission vehicles, with a focus on pickups and utilizing data from the Mexican case. Three policy evaluation scenarios are proposed based on the simulation model: business as usual; disincentives for zero- and low-emission vehicles; and incentives for unconventional vehicles. One of the most significant findings from this study is that even in a scenario with a greater number of vehicles in circulation, if the technology is fully electric, the environmental impact in terms of emissions is lower. Additionally, a comprehensive sensitivity analysis spanning a wide spectrum is undertaken through an extensive computational process, yielding multiple policy scenarios. The analysis indicates that to achieve a maximal reduction in the country’s emissions, promoting solely hybrid electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles is advisable, whereas internal combustion engines, vehicular natural gas, and battery electric vehicles should be discouraged.
Iron Oxide-Activated Carbon Composites for Enhanced Microwave-Assisted Pyrolysis of Hardwood
Authors: Lataf Amine , Khalil Awad Andrew E. , Joos Bjorn , Carleer Robert , Yperman Jan , Schreurs Sonja , D’Haen Jan , Cuypers Ann , Vandamme Dries
Published: May 2024

A commercial activated carbon (AC) was modified through iron oxide incorporation to obtain microwave absorbers (MWAs) for microwave-assisted pyrolysis. The influence of iron oxide content (5 and 20 wt% Fe3O4) and the modification methods were tested as follows: (1) in situ co-precipitation + washing step with Milli-Q; (2) in situ co-precipitation + washing step with Milli-Q/ethanol; and (3) physical iron oxide blending. The resulting MWAs were evaluated on the microwave-assisted pyrolysis of hardwood in a Milestone Flexiwave microwave reactor. The biochar yield varied from 24 wt% to 89 wt% and was influenced by the modification method rather than the iron oxide addition. The MWAs with physically blended iron oxide resulted in biochar yields comparable to conventional biochar (450 °C). Furthermore, the addition of iron oxide-activated carbon composites during the microwave-assisted pyrolysis caused a significant decrease in the biochar’s 16 EPA polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, mainly by reducing the amount of pyrene in the biochar.
Genetic Divergence and Evolutionary Adaption of Four Wild Almond Species (Prunus spp. L.)
Authors: Zhang Hong-Xiang , Zhang Xiao-Fang , Zhang Jian
Published: May 2024

Parallel evolution usually occurs among related species with similar morphological characters in adaptation to particular environments. Four wild almond species (Prunus) sharing the character of dry mesocarp splitting are distributed in China, most of which occur in arid Northwestern China. In the present study, we aimed to clarify the phylogenetic relationship, evolutionary history, and environmental adaptation of these wild almond species based on genome-wide SNP data and chloroplast genomes. Chloroplast phylogeny showed P. pedunculata and P. tenella were clustered with wild cherry species (Prunus), while P. mongolica and P. tangutica were clustered with wild peach species (Prunus). Genomic phylogeny suggested P. tenella formed an independent clade. An ABC-RF approach showed P. pedunculata was merged with P. tenella and, then, diverged from the ancestor of P. mongolica and P. tangutica. P. tenella was split from other wild almond species at ca. 7.81 to 17.77 Ma. Genetic environment association analysis showed precipitation variables contributed the most to genetic variations between P. mongolica from an arid environment and P. tangutica from a humid environment. Finally, a total of 29 adaptive loci were successfully annotated, which were related to physiological processes in response to abiotic stresses. Inconsistent genomic and chloroplast phylogenetic positions of P. tenella suggested this species could have originated from historical hybridization among different clades of Prunus. Physiological mechanisms promoted P. mongolica in adapting to the arid environment in Northwestern China.
Highly Mechanical Strength, Flexible and Stretchable Wood-Based Elastomers without Chemical Cross-Linking
Authors: Zhang Yongyue , Li Jiayao , Lu Yun , Shi Jiangtao
Published: May 2024

Wood exhibits a limited elastic deformation capacity under external forces due to its small range of elastic limit, which restricts its widespread use as an elastic material. This study presents the development of a stretchable wood-based elastomer (SWE) that is highly mechanical and flexible, achieved without the use of chemical cross-linking. Balsa wood was utilized as a raw material, which was chemically pretreated to remove the majority of the lignin and create a more abundant pore structure, while exposing the active hydroxyl groups on the cellulose surface. The polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution was impregnated into delignified wood, resulting in the formation of a cross-linked structure through multiple freeze–thaw cycles. After eight cycles, the tensile strength in the longitudinal direction reached up to 25.68 MPa with a strain of ~463%. This excellent mechanical strength is superior to that of most wood-based elastomers reported to date. The SWE can also perform complex deformations such as winding and knotting, and SWE soaked in salt solution exhibits excellent sensing characteristics and can be used to detect human finger bending. Stretchable wood-based elastomers with high mechanical strength and toughness have potential future applications in biomedicine, flexible electronics, and other fields.