bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogas Upgrading Via Dry Reforming Over a Ni-Sn/CeO2-Al2O3 Catalyst: Influence of the Biogas Source
Authors: le Saché Estelle , Johnson Sarah , Pastor-Pérez Laura , Amini Horri Bahman , Reina Tomas R.
Published: March 2019

Biogas is a renewable, as well as abundant, fuel source which can be utilised in the production of heat and electricity as an alternative to fossil fuels. Biogas can additionally be upgraded via the dry reforming reactions into high value syngas. Nickel-based catalysts are well studied for this purpose but have shown little resilience to deactivation caused by carbon deposition. The use of bi-metallic formulations, as well as the introduction of promoters, are hence required to improve catalytic performance. In this study, the effect of varying compositions of model biogas (CH4/CO2 mixtures) on a promising multicomponent Ni-Sn/CeO2-Al2O3 catalyst was investigated. For intermediate temperatures (650 °C), the catalyst displayed good levels of conversions in a surrogate sewage biogas (CH4/CO2 molar ratio of 1.5). Little deactivation was observed over a 20 h stability run, and greater coke resistance was achieved, related to a reference catalyst. Hence, this research confirms that biogas can suitably be used to generate H2-rich syngas at intermediate temperatures provided a suitable catalyst is employed in the reaction.
On-Coupling Mechanical, Electrical and Thermal Behavior of Submarine Power Phases
Authors: MATINE Abdelghani , DRISSI-HABTI Monssef
Published: March 2019

Floating offshore renewable energies (OREs), such as offshore floating wind turbines (wind energy) or wave power (wave and wave energy), are increasingly in demand. Submarine cables that transmit the energy produced from offshore farms all the way to onshore stations are critical structures that must be able to work perfectly over 20 years without any maintenance. In order to reduce the significant costs associated with electrical cables, it is important to optimize the dimensioning of the components of these cables, or to develop structural monitoring techniques that target zero and/or minimum maintenance over their lifespan. In this paper, we FEM of the impact of damage mechanisms of the conductor part of a submarine power phase on its mechanical, electrical, and thermal behavior. The main damage mechanisms are local plasticity and wire failure. The first mechanical study made it possible to obtain the elasto-plastic behavior of the conductor. The electrical study took into consideration the deformed geometry of the conductor in the elasto-plastic domain, as well as the non-homogeneous distribution of the electrical conductivity of the conductor. Their influence on the electrical resistance of the conductor was then analyzed. Finally, we studied the impact of plasticity and conductor failure on the thermal behavior of the phase. The temperature differences obtained in the numerical analysis of this work may be used further to help preventive and curative maintenance of the cables, for example, by using an optical fiber as sensor for structural health monitoring.
Environmental Impact Assessment of Transportation Infrastructure in the Life Cycle: Case Study of a Fast Track Transportation Project in China
Authors: Li Hui , Deng Quanxue , Zhang Jingxiao , Olubunmi Olanipekun Ayokunle , Lyu Sainan
Published: March 2019

The transportation sector generates enormous amount of environmental emission. This study aims to assess the environmental impact of the environmental emissions in a transportation infrastructure project life cycle. Using the fast track transportation project in China as a case study, the materials used and the energy consumed over the life cycle were converted into environmental emissions. The life cycle of fast track transportation project was divided into three phases including construction, maintenance and repair, and demolition phases. Both qualitative and quantitative method were applied to explore the environmental impact of transportation project. The life cycle assessment (LCA) method was used for the development environmental impact assessment (EIA) model to analyze the contribution of each process in the transportation project life cycle. The empirical results show that the construction phase has the highest environmental impact (62.7%) in the fast track transportation project life cycle, followed by the demolition (35.8%) and maintenance phases (1.7%). Among the materials used in the fast track transportation project, steel has the highest proportion of environmental impact in the construction phase (55.5%). This indicates the enormous environmental impact of the construction phase in fast track transportation project life cycle results from the use of steel material. This study contributes to reducing environmental emissions by revealing the greatest phase of environmental impact and material-source of environmental impact over the life cycle in a transportation infrastructure project.
Experimental Investigation on the Performances of a Multilevel Inverter Using a Field Programmable Gate Array-Based Control System
Authors: Ala Guido , Caruso Massimo , Miceli Rosario , Pellitteri Filippo , Schettino Giuseppe , Trapanese Marco , Viola Fabio
Published: March 2019

The Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) represents a valid solution for the design of control systems for inverters adopted in many industry applications, because of both its high flexibility of use and its high-performance with respect to other types of digital controllers. In this context, this paper presents an experimental investigation on the harmonic content of the voltages produced by a three-phase, five level cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel inverter with an FPGA-based control board, aiming also to evaluate the performance of the FPGA through the implementation of the main common modulation techniques and the comparison between simulation and experimental results. The control algorithms are implemented by means of the VHDL programming language. The output voltage waveforms, which have been obtained by applying to the inverter the main PWM techniques, are compared in terms of THD%. Simulation and experimental results are analyzed, compared and finally discussed.
The Design and Optimization of a Wireless Power Transfer System Allowing Random Access for Multiple Loads
Authors: Tan Linlin , Zhang Ming , Wang Songcen , Pan Shulei , Zhang Zhenxing , Li Jiacheng , Huang Xueliang
Published: March 2019

As is common in multi-load wireless power transfer (WPT) systems based on series–series compensation topology, the power received by loads and the efficiency of the process are highly sensitive to changes in the number of loads. To guarantee that the power supplied to a load remains stable when other loads access or leave the system, we propose an improved multi-load system for WPT. The new system uses an LCC/S topology (based on inductor–capacitor–inductor or LCL topology) to keep the power received by the loads stable. By comparing two scenarios (ideal and real models based on LCC/S topology), we aim to eliminate cross-coupling between receiving coils by connecting compensating capacitors in series on the receiving side. In this way, the stability of the power received by loads is further improved. Moreover, a method of optimizing control over the efficiency is proposed based on the effect on the overall efficiency of impedance and number of loads. This allows us to optimize the overall efficiency of the system. Finally, a system to verify our theoretical analysis is established and used to show the validity and effectiveness of the proposed system.
Probabilistic Hosting Capacity Enhancement in Non-Sinusoidal Power Distribution Systems Using a Hybrid PSOGSA Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Ismael Sherif M. , Abdel Aleem Shady H. E. , Abdelaziz Almoataz Y. , Zobaa Ahmed F.
Published: March 2019

The high penetration of distributed generation (DG) units with their power-electronic interfaces may lead to various power quality problems, such as excessive harmonic distortions and increased non-sinusoidal power losses. In this paper, the probabilistic hosting capacity (PHC) due to the high penetration of photovoltaic units in a non-sinusoidal power distribution system is investigated. A C-type harmonic filter is proposed, to maximize the harmonic-constrained PHC. An optimization problem is formulated by using a Monte Carlo simulation, taking into account various uncertain parameters, such as the intermittent output power of the DGs, background voltage harmonics, load alteration, and the filter parameters’ variations. In addition, different operational constraints have been considered, such as the bus voltage, line thermal capacity, power factor, and individual and total harmonic distortion limits. A swarm-based, meta-heuristic optimization algorithm known as the hybrid particle swarm optimization and gravitational search algorithm (PSOGSA) has been examined for the optimal design of the proposed filter. Besides, other optimization algorithms were examined for validation of the solution. The PHC results obtained are compared with the conventional deterministic HC (DHC) results, and it is found that the PHC levels are higher than those obtained by conservative HC procedures, practical rules of thumb, and the DHC approaches.
Comparative Analysis of Adjustable Robust Optimization Alternatives for the Participation of Aggregated Residential Prosumers in Electricity Markets
Authors: Correa-Florez Carlos Adrian , Michiorri Andrea , Kariniotakis Georges
Published: March 2019

Active participation of end users in energy markets is identified as one of the major challenges in the energy transition context. One option to bridge the gap between customers and the market is aggregators of smart homes or buildings. This paper presents an optimization model from the standpoint of an aggregator of residential prosumers who have PV panels, electric water heaters, and batteries installed at home level. This aggregator participates in the day-ahead energy market to minimize operation costs by controlling the settings of flexible devices. Given that energy prices, PV production, and demand have uncertain behavior, appropriate models should be used to include these effects. In the present work, Adjustable Robust Optimization (ARO) is used to include uncertainty in the optimization model, and a comparative study of modifications to this formulation is carried out to determine its potential and limitations. The comparative analysis is performed from the point of view of average cost and risk, after performing Monte Carlo simulation. Simulations show the advantages of using an ARO framework when compared to deterministic approaches and also allow us to conclude about the advantages of using the proposed alternative formulation to find more attractive solutions for an aggregator.
Optimization of a New Phase Change Material Integrated Photovoltaic/Thermal Panel with The Active Cooling Technique Using Taguchi Method
Authors: Liu Xiaohong , Zhou Yuekuan , Li Chun-Qing , Lin Yaolin , Yang Wei , Zhang Guoqiang
Published: March 2019

This paper investigates the energy performances of a hybrid system composed of a phase change materials-ventilated Trombe wall (PCMs-VTW) and a photovoltaic/thermal panel integrated with phase change material (PV/T-PCM). Equivalent overall output energy (QE) was proposed for energy performance evaluation regarding different energy forms, diversified conversions and hybrid thermal storages. This study focuses on parameters’ optimization of the PV/T-PCM system and parameters in the PCMs-VTW are kept optimal. Based on the experimentally validated numerical modelling, nine trial experiments have been conducted following Taguchi L9 (34) standard orthogonal array. The higher the better concept was implemented and the optimal combination of operating parameters was thereafter identified by using signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) method. The results show that QE is highly dependent on the mass flow rate, followed by the diameter of active cooling water pipe. However, the inlet cooling water temperature and the thickness of PCM have limited influence on QE. The optimal combination of each factor was identified as B3A3C2D1 (mass flow rate of 1 kg/s, diameter of water pipe of 0.6 m, inlet cooling water temperature of 15 °C and the thickness of PCM of 20 mm) with the highest QE of 20,700 kWh.
Aggregating Large-Scale Generalized Energy Storages to Participate in the Energy and Regulation Market
Authors: Yao Yao , Zhang Peichao , Chen Sijie
Published: March 2019

This paper proposes a concept of generalized energy storage (GES) to facilitate the integration of large-scale heterogeneous flexible resources with electric/thermal energy storage capacity, in order to participate in multiple markets. First, a general state variable, referred to as the degree of satisfaction (DoS), is defined, and dynamic models with a unified form are derived for different types of GESs. Then, a real-time market-based coordination framework is proposed to facilitate control, as well as to ensure user privacy and device security. Demand curves of different GESs are then developed, based on DoS, to express their demand urgencies as well as flexibilities. Furthermore, a low-dimensional aggregate dynamic model of a GES cluster is derived, thanks to the DoS-equality control feature provided by the design of the demand curve. Finally, an optimization model for large-scale GESs to participate in both the energy market and regulation market is established, based on the aggregate model. Simulation results demonstrate that the optimization algorithm could effectively reduce the total cost of an aggregator. Additionally, the proposed coordination method has a high tracking accuracy and could well satisfy a diversified power demand.
What Affects the Progress and Transformation of New Residential Building Energy Efficiency Promotion in China: Stakeholders’ Perceptions
Authors: Li Yinan , Zhu Neng , Qin Beibei
Published: March 2019

Nationwide energy efficiency (EE) promotion of new residential buildings is affected by multiple factors regarding policies, markets, technologies, capacities, and economics. The perceived influences of these factors by stakeholders are crucial to the effectiveness evaluation of current policies and the selection of policy instruments. However, they are normally assumed or taken for granted. The knowledge gap between stakeholders’ perceptions and research assumptions may lead to researchers’ recognition bias. Correspondingly, this paper aims to identify the significant factors, perceived by frontline stakeholders, influencing nationwide EE promotion of new residential buildings before 2020 and 2030. Factors were collected through literature review and their influence were evaluated via Analytical Hierarchy Process based on the data collected in the questionnaires distributed to 32 institutes. The theory of Nested Policy Design Framework and Policy Environment was used to structure the hierarchy and generate policy implications. Results indicate that (1) policy factors are of the greatest influence before 2020 and market perfection factors will have great influences from 2020 to 2030, indicating the transformation of governance arrangement to “market-based” and “network-based” from the current legal-based system; and (2) factors regarding market needs are of significant influence in both terms, revealing the way the transformation should be accomplished.
Sectoral Interactions as Carbon Dioxide Emissions Approach Zero in a Highly-Renewable European Energy System
Authors: Brown Tom , Schäfer Mirko , Greiner Martin
Published: March 2019

Measures to reduce carbon dioxide emissions are often considered separately, in terms of electricity, heating, transport, and industry. This can lead to the measures being prioritised in the wrong sectors, and neglects interactions between the sectors. In addition, studies often focus on specific greenhouse gas reduction targets, despite the uncertainty regarding what targets are desirable and when. In this paper, these issues are examined for the period after 2030 in an existing openly-available, hourly-resolved, per-country, and highly-renewable model of the European energy system, PyPSA-Eur-Sec-30, that includes electricity, land transport, and space and water heating. A parameter sweep of different reduction targets for direct carbon dioxide emissions is performed, ranging from no target down to zero direct emissions. The composition of system investments, the interactions between the energy sectors, shadow prices, and the market values of the system components are analysed as the carbon dioxide limit changes. Electricity and land transport are defossilised first, while the reduction of emissions in space and water heating is delayed by the expense of new components and the difficulty of supplying heat during cold spells with low wind and solar power generation. For deep carbon dioxide reduction, power-to-gas changes the system dynamics by reducing curtailment and increasing the market values of wind and solar power. Using this model setup, cost projections for 2030, and optimal cross-border transmission, the costs of a zero-direct-emission system in these sectors are marginally cheaper than today’s system, even before the health and environmental benefits are taken into account.
Comparative Evaluation of Coated and Non-Coated Carbon Electrodes in a Microbial Fuel Cell for Treatment of Municipal Sludge
Authors: Nandy Arpita , Sharma Mohita , Venkatesan Senthil , Taylor Nicole , Gieg Lisa , Thangadurai Venkataraman
Published: March 2019

This study aims to provide insight into the cost-effective catalyst on power generation in a microbial fuel cell (MFC) for treatment of municipal sludge. Power production from MFCs with carbon, Fe2O3, and Pt electrodes were compared. The MFC with no coating on carbon generated the least power density (6.72 mW·m−2) while the MFC with Fe2O3-coating on carbon anodes and carbon cathodes generated a 78% higher power output (30.18 mW·m−2). The third MFC with Fe2O3-coated carbon anodes and Pt on carbon as the cathode catalyst generated the highest power density (73.16 mW·m−2) at room temperature. Although the power generated with a conventional Pt catalyst was more than two-fold higher than Fe2O3, this study suggests that Fe2O3 can be investigated further as an efficient, low-cost, and alternative catalyst of Pt, which can be optimized for improving performance of MFCs. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) results demonstrated reduced resistance of MFCs and better charge transfer between biofilm and electrodes containing coated anodes compared to non-coated anodes. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze biofilm morphology and microbial community analysis was performed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, which revealed the presence of known anaerobic fermenters and methanogens that may play a key role in energy generation in the MFCs.
Optimal Coordination of Aggregated Hydro-Storage with Residential Demand Response in Highly Renewable Generation Power System: The Case Study of Finland
Authors: Bashir Arslan Ahmad , Lehtonen Matti
Published: March 2019

Current energy policy-driven targets have led to increasing deployment of renewable energy sources in electrical grids. However, due to the limited flexibility of current power systems, the rapidly growing number of installations of renewable energy systems has resulted in rising levels of generation curtailments. This paper probes the benefits of simultaneously coordinating aggregated hydro-reservoir storage with residential demand response (DR) for mitigating both load and generation curtailments in highly renewable generation power systems. DR services are provided by electric water heaters, thermal storages, electric vehicles, and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) loads. Accordingly, an optimization model is presented to minimize the mismatch between demand and supply in the Finnish power system. The model considers proportions of base-load generation comprising nuclear, and combined heat and power (CHP) plants (both CHP-city and CHP-industry), as well as future penetration scenarios of solar and wind power that are constructed, reflecting the present generation structure in Finland. The findings show that DR coordinated with hydropower is an efficient curtailment mitigation tool given the uncertainty in renewable generation. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis is also carried out to depict how higher penetration can reduce carbon emissions from electricity co-generation in the near future.
Multi-Objective Optimal Cloud Model Design of Vehicle-to-Grid Connected Systems Based on the Multiple Performance Characteristic Index Method
Authors: Kuo Jian-Long
Published: March 2019

In this paper, a statistical cloud model was proposed for optimal design of the proportional integral derivative (PID) controllers used in current control of vehicle-to-grid connected inverter systems with PID parameters. By collecting the effective control factors and noise factors from a cloud data base, the cloud model can minimize both the reactive power and the total harmonic distortion for the single-phase full-bridge vehicle-to-grid connected system. The multi-objective optimal solution is obtained by using statistical fuzzy-based response surface methodology with multiple performance characteristics index. The testing results showed the validity of the proposed cloud model. It is verified that the statistical cloud model can increase the performance of the single-phase full-bridge vehicle-to-grid connected system in practical vehicle-to-grid applications in the Internet of Things.
Effects of Different Storage Techniques on Round-Baled Orchard-Pruning Residues
Authors: Manzone Marco , Gioelli Fabrizio , Balsari Paolo
Published: March 2019

Baled pruning residue could be a valid solution to reduce the storage surface area in thermal and electrical power station. This study aimed to analyze the storage performance of pruning residues baled by a round baler considering three orchard tree species (apple, peach, and kiwi) and three different techniques (uncovered, under roof, and wrapped). The storage parameters considered were: moisture content, dry mass, and wood energy content of the material. The initial moisture content of the tree orchard specie (apple, peach, and kiwi) was different: lower for peach (41%) and higher for kiwi (51%). At the end of the storage period, all bales (covered and uncovered) obtained similar values to that of the air (about 20%); wrapped bales have highlighted no moisture content variation. The tested tree species showed a similar initial high heating value (18.70 MJ·kg−1), but a different initial low heating value: lower for kiwi (7.96 MJ kg−1) and higher for peach (10.09 MJ·kg−1). No dry matter losses were observed in all test. Stored pruning residues in bales show good benefits in term of “biofuel” quality independent of the techniques adopted expect for the wrapping system that do not permit adequate drying of the biomass.
Energy Regulator Supply Restoration Time
Authors: Muhammad Ridzuan Mohd Ikhwan , Djokic Sasa Z.
Published: March 2019

In conventional reliability analysis, the duration of interruptions relied on the input parameter of mean time to repair (MTTR) values in the network components. For certain criteria without network automation, reconfiguration functionalities and/or energy regulator requirements to protect customers from long excessive duration of interruptions, the use of MTTR input seems reasonable. Since modern distribution networks are shifting towards smart grid, some factors must be considered in the reliability assessment process. For networks that apply reconfiguration functionalities and/or network automation, the duration of interruptions experienced by a customer due to faulty network components should be addressed with an automation switch or manual action time that does not exceed the regulator supply restoration time. Hence, this paper introduces a comprehensive methodology of substituting MTTR with maximum action time required to replace/repair a network component and to restore customer duration of interruption with maximum network reconfiguration time based on energy regulator supply requirements. The Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) technique was applied to medium voltage (MV) suburban networks to estimate system-related reliability indices. In this analysis, the purposed method substitutes all MTTR values with time to supply (TTS), which correspond with the UK Guaranteed Standard of Performance (GSP-UK), by the condition of the MTTR value being higher than TTS value. It is nearly impossible for all components to have a quick repairing time, only components on the main feeder were selected for time substitution. Various scenarios were analysed, and the outcomes reflected the applicability of reconfiguration and the replace/repair time of network component. Theoretically, the network reconfiguration (option 1) and component replacement (option 2) with the same amount of repair time should produce exactly the same outputs. However, in simulation, these two options yield different outputs in terms of number and duration of interruptions. Each scenario has its advantages and disadvantages, in which the distribution network operators (DNOs) were selected based on their operating conditions and requirements. The regulator reliability-based network operation is more applicable than power loss-based network operation in counties that employed energy regulator requirements (e.g., GSP-UK) or areas with many factories that required a reliable continuous supply.
Coupling Exergy with the Emission of Greenhouse Gases in Bioenergy: A Case Study Using Biochar
Authors: Araújo Júnior Jair , Caldeira-Pires Armando , Oliveira Sérgio
Published: March 2019

The loss in the quality of energy throughout any process can be assessed by the thermodynamics magnitude related to its entropic performance—the exergy. This indicator has been suggested as an environmental index, as an alternative to life cycle assessment (LCA), which is a classic tool for this purpose. This study assesses the potential of coupling the life cycle approach and exergy in a bioenergy supply chain environmental performance characterization, examining two scenarios in the sugarcane agroindustry. The first one, the reference scenario, is a classical production, and the second includes the returning of a portion of residual biomass from the plant, in the form of biochar, to agricultural soil. The use of biochar engendered an increase in sugarcane productivities and a reduction of nitrous oxide emissions. These changes resulted in scenarios 1 and 2, reducing the exergy destroyed from 390 to 355 MJ/MJ ethanol (9.0%) and decreasing the greenhouse gases emissions (GHG) from 11.8 to 11.0 g CO2-equivalent/MJ ethanol (6.8%). The latter represents an improvement in the use of carbon. A sensitivity analysis showed that the effect of changing productivity was quite significant: The exergy showed a sensitivity of −0.49, and in total emissions, this figure was slightly lower, at −0.41. By changing the emissions of N2O in the soil, the sensitivity of exergy was almost null, and the total emissions were 0.077.
Harmonisation of Coolant Flow Pattern with Wake of Stator Vane to Improve Sealing Effectiveness Using a Wave-Shaped Rim Seal
Authors: Lee Seungjin , Kim Daehan , Park Joong Yull
Published: March 2019

The rim seal of the gas turbine is intended to protect the material of the turbine disk from hot combustion gases. The study of the rim seal structure is important to minimise the coolant flow and maximise the sealing effect. In this paper, a wave-shaped rim seal for stator disks is proposed and its effect is confirmed by numerical analysis. To characterise the flow phenomena near the wave-shaped rim seal, a simplified model of the wave-shaped rim seal (Type 1 model), which excludes the rotor blade and stator vane, is analysed and compared with the conventional rim seal. Then, through analysis of the wave-shaped rim seal geometry (Type 2 model), which includes the rotor blade and stator vane, a reduction in egress and ingress flow was observed owing to the wave-shaped rim seal, and the sealing effectiveness on the stator disk of turbine was increased by up to 3.8%. Implementation of the wave-shape geometry in the radial seal is a novel choice for turbine designers to consider in future for better-performing and more-efficient turbines.
Spot Market Mechanism Design for the Electricity Market in China Considering the Impact of a Contract Market
Authors: Zhang Chen , Yan Wei
Published: March 2019

To promote the reformation of the electricity market in China, a market mechanism that can support collaboration between the contract market and the upcoming spot market was designed in this paper. The focus of this paper was to develop a mechanism to institutionally stabilize the market by way of disciplining market power abuse through limiting arbitrage opportunities generated from multi-markets. To quantitatively describe the arbitrage opportunity, the arbitrage opportunity function (AOF) was defined. Based on inferences of the no-arbitrage principle and the AOF, a cost-based decomposition algorithm for contracts that could improve contract coverage was proposed. The incentive compatible settlement rule for the uncovered generation on the spot market was designed to properly manipulate the arbitrage opportunity. The decomposition algorithm and the settlement rule constituted the designed market mechanism. To verify the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed mechanism, the principles of incentive compatibility, individual rationality, and payment cost minimization were employed to test the designed market mechanism based on the concept of dominant policy equilibrium. This test was conducted on a fictitious case based on the IEEE-14 system. The analysis and results may provide valuable insights on market design in China based on the functional correlation between the contract market and the spot market.
Making Homes More Dementia-Friendly through the Use of Aids and Adaptations
Authors: Evans Simon , Waller Sarah , Bray Jennifer , Atkinson Teresa
Published: March 2019

The majority of people with dementia live in their own homes, often supported by a family member. While this is the preferred option for most, they often face multiple challenges due to a deterioration in their physical and cognitive abilities. This paper reports on a pilot study that aimed to explore the impacts of aids and adaptations on the wellbeing of people with dementia and their families living at home. Quantitative data were collected using established measures of wellbeing at baseline, 3 months and 9 months. In-depth case studies were carried out with a sample of participants. Findings from the pilot suggest that relatively inexpensive aids can contribute towards the maintenance of wellbeing for people with dementia in domestic settings. The project also increased the skills and confidence of professionals involved in the project and strengthened partnerships between the collaborating organisations across health, housing and social care. Providing aids that can help people with dementia to remain living at home with a good quality of life, often with the support of a family member, is an important element in the development of age-friendly communities.
Hypospadias Risk from Maternal Residential Exposure to Heavy Metal Hazardous Air Pollutants
Authors: White Jeffrey T. , Kovar Erin , Chambers Tiffany M. , Sheth Kunj R. , Peckham-Gregory Erin C. , O’Neill Marisol , Langlois Peter H. , Jorgez Carolina J. , Lupo Philip J. , Seth Abhishek
Published: March 2019

Objective: Investigate whether residential prenatal exposure to heavy metal hazardous air pollutants (HMHAPs) is associated with an increased risk of hypospadias. Methods: Data on non-syndromic hypospadias cases (n = 8981) and control patients delivered in Texas were obtained from the Texas Birth Defects Registry and matched 1:10 by birth year. Average exposure concentrations of HMHAPs were obtained from the 2005 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency National-Scale Air Toxics Assessment and categorized into quintiles. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated. STROBE reporting guidelines were followed. Results: We observed associations between hypospadias and prenatal HMHAP exposure. Manganese demonstrated significant increased risk of hypospadias at the medium, medium-high and high exposure quintiles; lead in the medium-high and high exposure quintiles. Cadmium, mercury and nickel demonstrated a significant inverted “U-shaped” association for exposures with significant associations in the medium and medium-high quintiles but not in the medium-low and high quintiles. Arsenic and chromium demonstrated a significant bivalent association for risk of hypospadias in a lower quintile as well as a higher quintile with non-significant intermediate quintiles. Conclusions: Using data from one of the world’s largest active surveillance birth defects registries, we identified significant associations between hypospadias and HMHAP exposures. These results should be used in counseling for maternal demographic risk factors as well as avoidance of heavy metals and their sources.
Empirical Study on Households’ Energy-Conservation Behavior of Jiangsu Province in China: The Role of Policies and Behavior Results
Authors: Yue Ting , Long Ruyin , Liu Junli , Liu Haiwen , Chen Hong
Published: March 2019

With the improvement of living quality and the increase of energy consumption of residents, their energy conservation behavior (ECB) plays an increasingly important role in energy conservation and emission reduction. As a kind of environmental behavior, ECB of residents is a complicated process. In this paper, ECB is divided into four types, considering habit adjustment, quality threshold, efficiency investment, and interpersonal facilitation. A comprehensive conceptual framework is built, adding perception about energy conservation results (PER) and contextual factors from a new perspective. Based on a survey in Jiangsu province of China, this paper examines the impact of intention on behavior under the moderation of contextual factors, as well as the effect of perception of energy-conservation results on intention and ECB by means of multivariate statistical analysis. The results show that the intention of energy conservation is the determinant of behavior, but it does not well transform into behavior, especially into quality threshold and interpersonal facilitation behavior. Different contextual factors have positive effects on the relationship of intention and different behavior. However, modulating effects of contextual factors as amplifiers do not function effectively due to their low rating scores. PER has a positive impact on intention but not on all types of ECB. Finally, this paper presents important implications for policy makers to optimize energy conservation policy.
Rural-Urban Variation in Weight Loss Recommendations Among US Older Adults with Arthritis and Obesity
Authors: Greaney Mary L. , Cohen Steven A. , Ward-Ritacco Christie L. , Riebe Deborah
Published: March 2019

Purpose: Weight loss is advantageous for individuals with obesity and arthritis. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine if there are differences by rural-urban status among older adults with these conditions who reported being advised by a health care provider to lose weight for arthritis or to ameliorate arthritis symptoms. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of 2011 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data. Respondents reported if they had been diagnosed with arthritis and if they received a provider weight loss recommendation (WLR). The analytic sample was limited to older adults aged 60–79 living in the five states that administered the examined BRFSS arthritis module who had body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2 and reported having arthritis (n = 2920). The respondent’s county of residence was linked to the corresponding county-level population density from the US Decennial Census to determine rural-urban status. A generalized linear model examined the association between receipt of a WLR and population density, controlling for demographics. Results: The sample was 83.6% white, 57.8% female, and 63.2% received a WLR. Respondents from more urban counties were more likely to receive a WLR (p value for trend <0.001). Additionally, older respondents, men, individuals with less than a high school education, and whites had a decreased likelihood of receiving a WLR. Conclusions: The analysis identified notable rural-urban differences with respondents in more urban counties being more likely to receive a WLR. Furthermore, there were differences in those who received a WLR by age, sex, and education. Reasons for these differences should be explored.
Microclimatic Impact Analysis of Multi-Dimensional Indicators of Streetscape Fabric in the Medium Spatial Zone
Authors: Jiang Yunfang , Han Xuemei , Shi Tiemao , Song Danran
Published: March 2019

Different historical backgrounds and planning ideas have created different urban streetscape fabrics. The patterns of the streetscape fabric have affected urban microclimate factors and formed a unique local microclimate. This paper simulated the microclimatic effects in four study areas with different streetscape fabrics in Shanghai to compare the microclimatic conditions with a system of multi-dimensional street morphological indices using ENVI-met 4.3 software. At the street network fabric level, the results showed that streets with a south–north orientation, a small junction spacing, and a street network with better connectivity were conducive to mitigation of the air temperature heating intensity in the street space and improving the ventilation effect; at the street-site level: The indices of Build-to-line ratio (BL), Height-width ratio (H/W), and Sky view factors (SVF) played different roles that affected the distribution characteristics of the microclimate factors. The BL value of the streets between 0.5 and 0.8 generally had a positive relationship with the air temperature. The SVF value of the streets was positively correlated with the microclimate index, while the H/W values were negatively correlated with them. The morphological indicators of different levels also had a synergistic effect on the microclimatic impact of the street space fabric. This comparative analysis of microclimatic characteristics at the medium spatial scale will provide useful suggestions for urban climate adaptability in urban spatial morphology optimization in future urbanization development.
Psychological Disorder Identifying Method Based on Emotion Perception over Social Networks
Authors: Zhou Tie Hua , Hu Gong Liang , Wang Ling
Published: March 2019

The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) has stated that over 1.1 billion people suffered from mental disorders globally in 2016, and the burden of mental disorders has continued to grow with impacts on social development. Despite the implementation of strategies for promotion and prevention in mental health WHO’s Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013–2020, the difficulty of diagnosis of mental disorders makes the objective “To provide comprehensive, integrated, and responsive mental health and social care services in community-based settings” hard to carry out. This paper presents a mental-disorder-aided diagnosis model (MDAD) to quantify the multipolarity sentiment affect intensity of users’ short texts in social networks in order to analyze the 11-dimensional sentiment distribution. We searched the five mental disorder topics and collected data based on Twitter hashtag. Through sentiment distribution similarity calculations and Stochastic Gradient Descent (SGD), people with a high probability of suffering from mental disorder can be detected in real time. In particular, mental health warnings can be made in time for users with an obvious emotional tendency in their tweets. In the experiments, we make a comprehensive evaluation of MDAD by five common adult mental disorders: depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, and panic disorder. Our proposed model can effectively diagnose common mental disorders by sentiment multipolarity analysis, providing strong support for the prevention and diagnosis of mental disorders.
Meta-Analysis of Heterogeneity in the Effects of Wildfire Smoke Exposure on Respiratory Health in North America
Authors: Kondo Michelle C. , De Roos Anneclaire J. , White Lauren S. , Heilman Warren E. , Mockrin Miranda H. , Gross-Davis Carol Ann , Burstyn Igor
Published: March 2019

Epidemiological studies consistently show an association between wildfire-related smoke exposure and adverse respiratory health. We conducted a systematic review of evidence in published literature pertaining to heterogeneity of respiratory effects from this exposure in North America. We calculated the within-study ratio of relative risks (RRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to examine heterogeneity of effect by population subgroup, and then summarized the RRRs using meta-analysis. We found evidence of a greater effect of wildfire smoke on respiratory health among females relative to males for asthma (RRR: 1.035, 95% CI: 1.013, 1.057) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (RRR: 1.018, 95% CI: 1.003, 1.032). There was evidence of a lower relative risk for all respiratory outcomes among youth compared to adults (RRR: 0.976, 95% CI: 0.963, 0.989). We also found wildfire smoke effects stratified by income, race, education, health behaviors, access to care, housing occupancy, geographic region, and urban/rural status. However, data were insufficient to quantitatively evaluate effect modification by these characteristics. While we found evidence that certain demographic subgroups of the population are more susceptible to respiratory health outcomes from wildfire smoke, it is unclear whether this information can be used to inform policy aimed to reduce health impact of wildfires.
Complexity in Implementing Community Drowning Reduction Programs in Southern Bangladesh: A Process Evaluation Protocol
Authors: Gupta Medhavi , Rahman Aminur , ul Baset Kamran , Ivers Rebecca , Zwi Anthony B. , Hossain Shafkat , Rahman Fazlur , Jagnoor Jagnoor
Published: March 2019

Living and geographical conditions in Bangladesh expose children to a high risk of drowning. Two programs operating in the Barishal Division of Bangladesh aim to reduce drowning risk through the provision of crèches (Anchal) and swim and rescue classes (SwimSafe). Anchal provides a safe environment with early childhood education to children aged 1–5 years old, while SwimSafe teaches children aged 6–10 years old basic swimming and rescue skills. Despite evidence for their effectiveness, it is unclear under which conditions these programs best operate. This protocol describes a project that seeks to conduct a process evaluation and gender analysis to identify implementation inefficiencies and contextual considerations for improved sustainability of the programs. A mixed- method approach using both qualitative and quantitative data will be used. Quantitative program data will be analysed to measure program utilisation, delivery and reach, while qualitative data will be collected via key informant in-depth interviews (IDIs), focus group discussions (FGDs) and observations. The process evaluation of the Anchal and SwimSafe programs provides an opportunity for implementers to identify practical strategies to improve program delivery and improve contextual adaptability of these programs. Furthermore, the findings may provide guidance to other implementers aiming to deliver community-based programs in rural lower-middle income contexts.
The Therapeutic Potential of Apigenin
Authors: Salehi Bahare , Venditti Alessandro , Sharifi-Rad Mehdi , Kręgiel Dorota , Sharifi-Rad Javad , Durazzo Alessandra , Lucarini Massimo , Santini Antonello , Souto Eliana B. , Novellino Ettore , Antolak Hubert , Azzini Elena , Setzer William N. , Martins Natália
Published: March 2019

Several plant bioactive compounds have exhibited functional activities that suggest they could play a remarkable role in preventing a wide range of chronic diseases. The largest group of naturally-occurring polyphenols are the flavonoids, including apigenin. The present work is an updated overview of apigenin, focusing on its health-promoting effects/therapeutic functions and, in particular, results of in vivo research. In addition to an introduction to its chemistry, nutraceutical features have also been described. The main key findings from in vivo research, including animal models and human studies, are summarized. The beneficial indications are reported and discussed in detail, including effects in diabetes, amnesia and Alzheimer’s disease, depression and insomnia, cancer, etc. Finally, data on flavonoids from the main public databases are gathered to highlight the apigenin’s key role in dietary assessment and in the evaluation of a formulated diet, to determine exposure and to investigate its health effects in vivo.
5-Iodo-4-thio-2′-Deoxyuridine as a Sensitizer of X-ray Induced Cancer Cell Killing
Authors: Makurat Samanta , Spisz Paulina , Kozak Witold , Rak Janusz , Zdrowowicz Magdalena
Published: March 2019

Nucleosides, especially pyrimidines modified in the C5-position, can act as radiosensitizers via a mechanism that involves their enzymatic triphosphorylation, incorporation into DNA, and a subsequent dissociative electron attachment (DEA) process. In this paper, we report 5-iodo-4-thio-2′-deoxyuridine (ISdU) as a compound that can effectively lead to ionizing radiation (IR)-induced cellular death, which is proven by a clonogenic assay. The test revealed that the survival of cells, pre-treated with 10 or 100 µM solution of ISdU and exposed to 0.5 Gy of IR, was reduced from 78.4% (for non-treated culture) to 67.7% and to 59.8%, respectively. For a somewhat higher dose of 1 Gy, the surviving fraction was reduced from 68.2% to 54.9% and to 40.8% for incubation with 10 or 100 µM ISdU, respectively. The cytometric analysis of histone H2A.X phosphorylation showed that the radiosensitizing effect of ISdU was associated, at least in part, with the formation of double-strand breaks. Moreover, the cytotoxic test against the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line and human dermal fibroblasts (HDFa line) confirmed low cytotoxic activity of ISdU. Based on the results of steady state radiolysis of ISdU with a dose of 140 Gy and quantum chemical calculations explaining the origin of the MS detected radioproducts, the molecular mechanism of sensitization by ISdU was proposed. In conclusion, we found ISdU to be a potential radiosensitizer that could improve anticancer radiotherapy.