bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomic Analysis of Yunwu Tribute Tea Leaves under Cold Stress
Authors: Wang Ying , Wan Cheng , Li Leijia , Xiang Zhun , Wang Jihong , Li Yan , Zhao Degang
Published: January 2023

Background: Cold stress usually occurs in winter and is one of the most significant environmental factors restricting the growth of the tea plant as well as its geographical distribution. Objective: It is necessary to identify the physiological and molecular mechanisms of plants under cold stress so that cold-tolerant crop varieties can be cultivated to limit production losses. At the same time, this would allow the crop planting area to be expanded, hence improving the economic benefits. Methods: In this study, the transcriptome data of Yunwu Tribute Tea under cold conditions were obtained using the Illumina HiSeq platform. By analyzing changes in transcriptome data associated with the antioxidant enzyme system, plant hormone signal transduction, proline and tyrosine metabolism pathways, and transcription factors, the molecular mechanisms involved in Yunwu Tribute Tea under cold stress were investigated. Results: In this study, Illumina HiSeq technology was applied to investigate the cold-tolerance mechanism. For this purpose, cDNA libraries were obtained from two groups of samples, namely the cold-treated group (DW) and the control group (CK). A total of 185,973 unigenes were produced from 511,987 assembled transcripts; among these, 16,020 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (corrected p-value < 0.01, |log2(fold change)| >3), including 9606 up-regulated and 6414 down-regulated genes, were obtained. Moreover, the antioxidant enzyme system, plant hormone signal transduction, proline and tyrosine metabolism pathways, and transcription factors were analyzed; based on these results, a series of candidate genes related to cold stress were screened out and discussed. The physiological indexes related to the low-temperature response were tested, along with five DEGs which were validated by quantitative real-time PCR. Conclusions: Differential gene expression analysis has confirmed that substantial cold-responsive genes are related to the antioxidant enzyme system, plant hormone signal transduction, proline metabolism pathway, tyrosine metabolism pathway, and transcription factors.
Characterization of [1]Benzothieno[3,2-b]benzothiophene (BTBT) Derivatives with End-Capping Groups as Solution-Processable Organic Semiconductors for Organic Field-Effect Transistors
Authors: Ryu Seunghyup , Yun Chaeyoung , Ryu Soomin , Ahn Jihae , Kim Choongik , Seo Sungyong
Published: January 2023

Solution-processable [1]benzothieno[3,2-b]benzothiophene (BTBT) derivatives with various end-capping groups, 2-(phenylethynyl)benzo[b]benzo[4,5]thieno[2,3-d]thiophene (Compound 1), 2-octyl-7-(5-(phenylethynyl)thiophen-2-yl)benzo[b]benzo[4,5]thieno[2,3-d]thiophene (Compound 2), and triisopropyl((5-(7-octylbenzo[b]benzo[4,5]thieno[2,3-d]thiophen-2-yl)thiophen-2-yl)ethynyl)silane (Compound 3), have been synthesized and characterized as active layers for organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). Thermal, optical, and electrochemical properties of the newly synthesized compounds were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), UV–vis spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry (CV). Thin films of each compound were formed using the solution-shearing method and the thin film surface morphology and texture of the corresponding films were characterized using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and θ–2θ X-ray diffraction (XRD). All semiconductors exhibited p-channel characteristics in ambient and Compound 1 showed the highest electrical performance with a carrier mobility of ~0.03 cm2/Vs and current on/off ratio of ~106.
Living in a Thermally Diverse Environment: Field Body Temperatures and Thermoregulation in Hermann’s Tortoise, Testudo hermanni, in Montenegro
Authors: Vujović Ana , Pešić Vladimir , Meek Roger
Published: January 2023

Reptiles live in a range of different habitats from tropical forests to temperate zones where the climate may change on seasonal or a daily basis. The thermal environment is a major determinant of how efficiently they can achieve optimum or preferred body temperatures and, in terms of physiologically optimum body temperatures, these may not be possible in a natural environment. In this paper, null models have been employed to evaluate thermoregulatory efficiency in Hermann’s tortoise, Testudo hermanni, in high summer in central Montenegro when temperatures change on a daily basis. The study area is defined as a low-cost thermal environment and thus we assumed that tortoises should be able to achieve an efficient level of thermoregulation. However, the results varied and depended on where the tortoises operated and the weather conditions. High levels of efficiency were found during sunny weather in areas with abundant patches of shade and sunlit areas. These reflected the temperatures of models placed in these areas and in females during cooler cloudy weather when thermoregulatory effort increased. Model temperatures placed in partially shaded sunlit areas were in better agreement with tortoise body temperatures than models in other areas. Tortoise body temperatures were in closer agreement with set point temperatures than any of the null models placed in either open sunny, shaded or partially shaded areas, indicating that tortoise movement was non-random and due to active thermoregulation.
Development and Validation of an Instrument to Appraise the Tolerability, Safety of Use, and Pleasantness of a Cosmetic Product
Authors: Jairoun Ammar Abdulrahman , Al-Hemyari Sabaa Saleh , Shahwan Moyad , El-Dahiyat Faris , Zyoud Sa’ed H. , Jairoun Obaida , Shayeb Maher Al
Published: January 2023

Background: Acceptability tests are designed to demonstrate that there is no chance that cosmetics would irritate or distress users in day-to-day situations. Objectives: to develop and validate a tool or scale that dermatologists, general practitioners, and other healthcare professionals can employ to assess a cosmetic product’s tolerability, safety of usage, and pleasantness. Methods: A three-step modified Delphi technique was used in the consensus process. Two rounds of online surveys and a final face-to-face meeting were performed. Fifty experts for the Delphi panel were chosen to reflect a holistic array of expertise and perspectives in pharmacovigilance, dermatology, and cosmetic safety assessments. In round 1, 80 statements and 115 statements related to skin tolerance and cosmetic safety/efficacy, respectively, were distributed to all members of the expert panel. The expert panel was asked to rate the extent to which they agreed with each statement in the questionnaire using a 5-point Likert scale and given a chance to include a remark beside each item. A statement had to receive 80% of the panel’s approval to be accepted. Results: A total of 50 professional experts were recruited in the Delphi questionnaire rounds (response rate = 63%). The expert panel reached a consensus on 30 statements to evaluate skin tolerability and 34 statements to evaluate cosmetic safety and efficacy (agreement rate level ≥ 80%). The experts also proposed a generic, systematic approach that would allow patients to report both functional and physical symptoms in addition to those discovered during an examination (clinical signs). The confrontation of these symptoms determines whether the investigated cosmetic product is ultimately cutaneously acceptable. Conclusion: The tool that was proposed during this study offered good content validity. Future studies are recommended to test the developed tools in practice to evaluate the good skin compatibility and the safety and quality of cosmetics in the UAE and other nations.
Current Update on PET/MRI in Gynecological Malignancies—A Review of the Literature
Authors: Virarkar Mayur , Vulasala Sai , Calimano-Ramirez Luis , Singh Anmol , Lall Chandana , Bhosale Priya
Published: January 2023

Early detection of gynecological malignancies is vital for patient management and prolonging the patient’s survival. Molecular imaging, such as positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography, has been increasingly utilized in gynecological malignancies. PET/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables the assessment of gynecological malignancies by combining the metabolic information of PET with the anatomical and functional information from MRI. This article will review the updated applications of PET/MRI in gynecological malignancies.
Association between Inflammatory Markers and Local Recurrence in Patients with Giant Cell Tumor of Bone: A Preliminary Result
Authors: Tsukamoto Shinji , Mavrogenis Andreas F. , Alvarado Rebeca Angulo , Traversari Matteo , Akahane Manabu , Honoki Kanya , Tanaka Yasuhito , Donati Davide Maria , Errani Costantino
Published: January 2023

Giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) has a high local recurrence rate of approximately 20%. Systemic inflammatory markers, such as neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), lymphocyte-monocyte ratio (LMR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), hemoglobin (Hb), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), have been reported as prognostic markers in patients with malignant tumors. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between these markers and the local recurrence rate of GCTB. In total, 103 patients with GCTB who underwent surgery at the authors’ institutions between 1993 and 2021 were included. Thirty patients experienced local recurrence. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that tumor site, preoperative and postoperative denosumab treatment, and surgery were significantly associated with local recurrence-free survival. LDH was associated with local recurrence-free survival on univariate analysis only. NLR, mGPS, PNI, LMR, and PLR score did not correlate with the local recurrence rate. In conclusion, NLR, mGPS, PNI, LMR, PLR score, Hb, ALP, and LDH levels are not correlated with the local recurrence rate of GCTB. However, due to the small number of patients included in this study, this result should be re-evaluated in a multicenter study with a larger sample size.
Different Re-Irradiation Techniques after Breast-Conserving Surgery for Recurrent or New Primary Breast Cancer
Authors: Abeloos Camille Hardy , Purswani Juhi M. , Galavis Paulina , McCarthy Allison , Hitchen Christine , Choi J. Isabelle , Gerber Naamit K.
Published: January 2023

Breast re-irradiation (reRT) after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) using external beam radiation is an increasingly used salvage approach for women presenting with recurrent or new primary breast cancer. However, radiation technique, dose and fractionation as well as eligibility criteria differ between studies. There is also limited data on efficacy and safety of external beam hypofractionation and accelerated partial-breast irradiation (APBI) regimens. This paper reviews existing retrospective and prospective data for breast reRT after BCS, APBI reRT outcomes and delivery at our institution and the need for a randomized controlled trial using shorter courses of radiation to better define patient selection for different reRT fractionation regimens.
Drivers and Effects of Cryptic Invasion of Cornus sanguinea subsp. australis in Lithuania
Authors: Petrulaitis Lukas , Gudžinskas Zigmantas
Published: January 2023

Most alien plant species are usually discovered in new areas either immediately or within a relatively short period of time after their introduction. However, the introduction, spread, and invasion of some species go unnoticed for a long time. In Lithuania, such an alien plant is Cornus sanguinea subsp. australis, whose cryptic invasion has gone unnoticed due to its similarity to the native subsp. sanguinea. Cornus sanguinea subsp. australis is native to southeastern Europe and western Asia and is considered alien in other parts of Europe. This study, which was carried out between 2018 and 2022 in the territory of Lithuania, aimed to identify the distribution of the subsp. australis, as well as assess certain reproductive traits and its impact on the species diversity of the invaded communities. The results showed that the cryptic invasion of subsp. australis in Lithuania has been going on for several decades and is now well advanced. We found that the alien subspecies grows faster and that individuals in analogous habitats mature earlier than the native subsp. sanguinea. Furthermore, subsp. australis, compared to subsp. sanguinea, produces more flowers per inflorescence (84.0 ± 25.0 and 49.7 ± 20.9, respectively) and sets and ripens more fruits (25.6 ± 9.7 and 18.2 ± 7.6, respectively), which are among the most important factors for its further fast spread and invasion. The results of the vegetation analysis showed that the increase in abundance of both subspecies has a negative effect on species diversity in the community. However, the effect of the native subspecies on plant species diversity was negligible, while the effect of the alien subspecies was moderately negative and significant (r = −0.47; p < 0.05). Based on the results of the study, we can conclude that the alien subsp. australis performs better than the native subsp. sanguinea. Considering the current distribution and the drivers of dispersal, we suppose that subsp. australis will continue to spread rapidly in Lithuania and may pose a threat to the native subsp. sanguinea populations.
Diversity and Composition of Caddisflies (Insecta: Trichoptera) along an Elevation Gradient in Southeastern Mexico
Authors: Razo-González María , Novelo-Gutiérrez Rodolfo , Castaño-Meneses Gabriela , Márquez Juan
Published: January 2023

We analyzed the alpha and beta components of male Trichoptera diversity along an altitudinal gradient ranging from 136 to 2432 m a.s.l. by studying five assemblages of adult male caddisflies in five streams of the Sierra de Juárez, Oaxaca, Mexico. Samples were collected with light traps in the “nortes” (February) and rainy (October) seasons of 2016, recording air temperature and relative humidity. The assemblages showed an abundance pattern clearly associated with the rainy season, and a high dissimilarity in their species composition. Species richness and abundance were significantly higher at lower altitudinal levels. The highest alpha diversity was recorded in the Flor de Azahar stream; beta diversity increased with altitude and made an important contribution to gamma diversity. These results suggest that temporal and altitudinal variations affect environmental variables, which influence the structure of Trichoptera assemblages. Temperature was the primary factor determining spatial and temporal distribution patterns of caddisfly assemblages in the study area. However, in the rainy season, this factor explained a smaller proportion of the observed changes. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate other environmental variables and explore other ecosystems to provide additional evidence on the factors affecting the diversity patterns of the Trichoptera in the Sierra de Juárez.
The Effect of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Based Radiomics Models in Discriminating stage I–II and III–IVa Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Li Quanjiang , Yu Qiang , Gong Beibei , Ning Youquan , Chen Xinwei , Gu Jinming , Lv Fajin , Peng Juan , Luo Tianyou
Published: January 2023

Background: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common tumor in China. Accurate stages of NPC are crucial for treatment. We therefore aim to develop radiomics models for discriminating early-stage (I–II) and advanced-stage (III–IVa) NPC based on MR images. Methods: 329 NPC patients were enrolled and randomly divided into a training cohort (n = 229) and a validation cohort (n = 100). Features were extracted based on axial contrast-enhanced T1-weighted images (CE-T1WI), T1WI, and T2-weighted images (T2WI). Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) was used to build radiomics signatures. Seven radiomics models were constructed with logistic regression. The AUC value was used to assess classification performance. The DeLong test was used to compare the AUCs of different radiomics models and visual assessment. Results: Models A, B, C, D, E, F, and G were constructed with 13, 9, 7, 9, 10, 7, and 6 features, respectively. All radiomics models showed better classification performance than that of visual assessment. Model A (CE-T1WI + T1WI + T2WI) showed the best classification performance (AUC: 0.847) in the training cohort. CE-T1WI showed the greatest significance for staging NPC. Conclusion: Radiomics models can effectively distinguish early-stage from advanced-stage NPC patients, and Model A (CE-T1WI + T1WI + T2WI) showed the best classification performance.
In Vitro Trueness and Precision of Intraoral Scanners in a Four-Implant Complete-Arch Model
Authors: Spagopoulos Dimitrios , Kaisarlis George , Spagopoulou Foteini , Halazonetis Demetrios J. , Güth Jan-Frederik , Papazoglou Efstratios
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: New intraoral (IOS) and laboratory scanners appear in the market and their trueness and precision have not been compared. (2) Methods: Seven IOS and two laboratory scanners were used to scan a mandibular edentulous model with four parallel internal hexagon implant analogues and PEEK scan bodies. Digital models in Standard Tessellation Language (STL) were created. The master model with the scan bodies was scanned (×10) with a computerized numerical control 3D Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM). The short (distances of adjacent scan posts) and long distances (distances of the scan posts with non-adjacent sites in the arch) among the centroids of the four analogues were calculated using CMM special software. Trueness (comparisons with the master model) and precision (intragroup comparisons) were statistically compared with ANOVA, chi-square and Tukey tests. (3) Results: Laboratory scanners had the best trueness and precision compared to all IOSs for long distances. Only iTero (Align Technologies Inc., Milpitas, CA, USA) had comparable trueness with one laboratory scanner in short and long distances. For short distances, CS3600 (Carestream Health, Inc., Rochester, NY, USA), Omnicam, Primescan (Sirona Dental Sys-tems GmbH, Bens-heim, Germany) and TRIOS 4 (3Shape A/S, Copen-hagen, Denmark) had similar trueness to one laboratory scanner. From those, only Omnicam and Primescan had similar precision as the same laboratory scanner. Most IOSs seem to work better for smaller distances and are less precise in cross-arch distances. (4) Conclusions: The laboratory scanners showed significantly higher trueness and precision than all IOSs tested for the long-distance group; for the short distance, some IOSs were not different in trueness and precision than the laboratory scanners.
Dynamics of Quantum Networks in Noisy Environments
Authors: Zhang Chang-Yue , Zheng Zhu-Jun , Fei Shao-Ming , Feng Mang
Published: January 2023

Noise exists inherently in realistic quantum systems and affects the evolution of quantum systems. We investigate the dynamics of quantum networks in noisy environments by using the fidelity of the quantum evolved states and the classical percolation theory. We propose an analytical framework that allows us to characterize the stability of quantum networks in terms of quantum noises and network topologies. The calculation results of the framework determine the maximal time that quantum networks with different network topologies can maintain the ability to communicate under noise. We demonstrate the results of the framework through examples of specific graphs under amplitude damping and phase damping noises. We further consider the capacity of the quantum network in a noisy environment according to the proposed framework. The analytical framework helps us better understand the evolution time of a quantum network and provides a reference for designing large quantum networks.
On Regularized Systems of Equations for Gas Mixture Dynamics with New Regularizing Velocities and Diffusion Fluxes
Authors: Zlotnik Alexander , Lomonosov Timofey
Published: January 2023

We deal with multidimensional regularized systems of equations for the one-velocity and one-temperature inert gas mixture dynamics consisting of the balance equations for the mass of components and the momentum and total energy of the mixture, with diffusion fluxes between the components as well as the viscosity and heat conductivity terms. The regularizations are kinetically motivated and aimed at constructing conditionally stable symmetric in space discretizations without limiters. We consider a new combined form of regularizing velocities containing the total pressure of the mixture. To confirm the physical correctness of the regularized systems, we derive the balance equation for the mixture entropy with the non-negative entropy production, under generalized assumptions on the diffusion fluxes. To confirm nice regularizing properties, we derive the systems of equations linearized at constant solutions and provide the existence, uniqueness and L2-dissipativity of weak solutions to an initial-boundary problem for them. For the original systems, we also discuss the related Petrovskii parabolicity property and its important corollaries. In addition, in the one-dimensional case, we also present the special three-point and symmetric finite-difference discretization in space of the regularized systems and prove that it inherits the entropy correctness property. We also give results of numerical experiments confirming that the discretization is able to simulate well various dynamic problems of contact between two different gases.
Consumer Decision-Making Rules for FMCG Products—Study of Rural in North India
Authors: Verma Suraj , Rojhe Kuldeep , Horská Elena , Sharma Somesh , Šedík Peter
Published: January 2023

The present study aims to identify the demographic variables that influence rural customers’ decision-making rules in the process of purchasing fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) products. Five FMCG personal care products are taken into consideration for the study. A multistage proportionate sampling procedure was adopted and 550 respondents were selected for the study. The regression model enables the marketers to identify the key demographic variables which affect the decision-making rules used by rural people. The study concludes that consumers’ decision-making rules are influenced by rural consumer’s educational backgrounds and the number of family members under the age of 18 years. In the context of FMCG products, our research assists marketers in designing strategies that take into consideration the needs and demands of rural residents. Further studies possibly will be expanded to include other FMCG product categories such as domestic care, food, and beverages.
Using Personal Learning Environments before, during and after the Pandemic: The Case of “e-Me”
Authors: Tzavara Aggeliki , Lavidas Konstantinos , Komis Vassilis , Misirli Anastasia , Karalis Thanassis , Papadakis Stamatis
Published: January 2023

The rapid developments in early 2020 with the emergence of COVID-19 have led humanity into unexpected situations with significant implications at all levels. In trying to cope with the urgent need for distance education, the Greek educational community has incorporated various platforms and digital tools previously unknown to most teachers and students. This study uses a mixed research method to capture (a) the frequency of use of a Personal Learning Environment called ‘e-me’ by the teachers before, during, and after the quarantine, and (b) the reasons why some teachers did not use this environment during these three periods. A total of 902 Greek teachers from primary and secondary education participated in this research. The results showed an almost universal non-use of ‘e-me’ before the pandemic and universal usage during the pandemic. Moreover, about 40% of these teachers used this personal learning environment after the pandemic. The main reason for not using this learning environment in the three periods is teachers’ familiarity with the interface of another platform. Implications for educational policy and teacher development programs are discussed.
The Use of an Interactive Social Simulation Tool for Adults Who Stutter: A Pilot Study
Authors: Meredith Grant , Achterbosch Leigh , Peck Blake , Terry Daniel , Dekker Evan , Packman Ann
Published: January 2023

This study reports a user evaluation of a DVD-based social simulator, developed for people who stutter to potentially gain confidence in using a learned fluency technique. The aim was to examine and evaluate the pilot of the DVD-based social simulator, Scenari-Aid, to inform the development of an online version of the program. Thirty-seven adults who were stuttering were recruited to the study from non-professional groups in Australia. The DVD comprised scenarios with actors in real-life settings that were designed to elicit verbal responses. Participants worked through the scenarios at their own rate and then completed an online survey. The survey comprised 29 statements requiring responses on a 5-point Likert scale and provided information about users’ perceptions of participating in the social simulations. There was high positive agreement among the participants on all statements, the most important being that they perceived the scenarios represented in everyday speaking situations and that they felt immersed in them. Participants also agreed that both their fluency and confidence increased in everyday speaking situations as a result of working through the DVD scenarios. The developers were satisfied that, despite the subjective nature of the findings, the study provided sufficient support for constructing the online version, which is now available to the public free of charge. Further research is needed to provide empirical evidence of the contribution it can make to the efficacy of speech programs for adults who stutter.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of EJIHPE in 2022
Authors:   EJIHPE Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
GFRX: A New Lightweight Block Cipher for Resource-Constrained IoT Nodes
Authors: Zhang Xing , Tang Shaoyu , Li Tianning , Li Xiaowei , Wang Changda
Published: January 2023

The study of lightweight block ciphers has been a “hot topic”. As one of the main structures of block ciphers, the Feistel structure has attracted much attention. However, the traditional Feistel structure cipher changes only half of the plaintext in an iterative round, resulting in slow diffusion. Therefore, more encryption rounds are required to ensure security. To address this issue, a new algorithm, GFRX, is proposed, which combines a generalized Feistel structure and ARX (Addition or AND, Rotation, XOR). The GFRX algorithm uses an ARX structure with different non-linear components to deal with all the branches of a generalized Feistel structure so that it can achieve a better diffusion effect in fewer rounds. The results of a security analysis of the GFRX algorithm show that the effective differential attacks do not exceed 19 rounds and that the effective linear attacks do not exceed 13 rounds. Therefore, the GFRX algorithm has an adequate security level for differential and linear analysis. Avalanche test results obtained for the GFRX algorithm show that the GFRX algorithm has strong diffusion and only takes six rounds to meet the avalanche effect. In addition, the GFRX algorithm can achieve different serialization levels depending on different hardware resource requirements and can achieve full serialization, which ensures operational flexibility in resource-constrained environments.
Health State Identification Method of Nuclear Power Main Circulating Pump Based on EEMD and OQGA-SVM
Authors: Liu Zhilong , Li Minggang , Zhu Zhifeng , Xiao Linhai , Nie Changhua , Tang Zhangchun
Published: January 2023

Main circulation pump is the only high-speed rotating equipment in primary loop of nuclear power plant. Its function is to ensure the normal operation of primary loop system by controlling the circulating flow of reactor coolant. In order to ensure long-term healthy operation of nuclear power main circulating pump, a method for identifying the health states of nuclear power main circulating pump based on ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) and support vector machine optimized by optimized quantum genetic algorithm (OQGA-SVM) is proposed. Vibration signal of main circulating pump is decomposed by EEMD. Vibration signal characteristics of nuclear power main circulating pump in healthy state and different fault states are analyzed and target characteristic indexes are put forward. Then, health state identification model of main circulation pump of OQGA-SVM is established, and target characteristic indexes are used as input parameter of the model. Finally, combined with experimental data, the model analysis and validation show that the health state identification method of nuclear power main circulating pump based on EEMD-OQGA-SVM can accurately and effectively identify the states of main circulation pump, has a higher identification accuracy than EEMD-SVM method and is more efficient and accurate than EEMD-QGA-SVM method.
VMLH: Efficient Video Moment Location via Hashing
Authors: Tan Zhifang , Dong Fei , Liu Xinfang , Li Chenglong , Nie Xiushan
Published: January 2023

Video-moment location by query is a hot topic in video understanding. However, most of the existing methods ignore the importance of location efficiency in practical application scenarios; video and query sentences have to be fed into the network at the same time during the retrieval, which leads to low efficiency. To address this issue, in this study, we propose an efficient video moment location via hashing (VMLH). In the proposed method, query sentences and video clips are, respectively, converted into hash codes and hash code sets, in which the semantic similarity between query sentences and video clips is preserved. The location prediction network is designed to predict the corresponding timestamp according to the similarity among hash codes, and the videos do not need to be fed into the network during the process of retrieval and location. Furthermore, different from the existing methods, which require complex interactions and fusion between video and query sentences, the proposed VMLH method only needs a simple XOR operation among codes to locate the video moment with high efficiency. This paper lays the foundation for fast video clip positioning and makes it possible to apply large-scale video clip positioning in practice. The experimental results on two public datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of the method.
Economic and Regulatory Uncertainty in Renewable Energy System Design: A Review
Authors: Alonso-Travesset Àlex , Coppitters Diederik , Martín Helena , de la Hoz Jordi
Published: January 2023

Renewable energy is increasingly mobilizing more investment around the globe. However, there has been little attention to evaluating economic and regulatory (E&R) uncertainties, despite their enormous impact on the project cashflows. Consequently, this review analyzes, classifies, and discusses 130 articles dealing with the design of renewable energy projects under E&R uncertainties. After performing a survey and identifying the selected manuscripts, and the few previous reviews on the matter, the following innovative categorization is designed: sources of uncertainty, uncertainty characterization methods, problem formulations, solution methods, and regulatory frameworks. The classification reveals that electricity price is the most considered source of uncertainty, often alone, despite the existence of six other equally influential groups of E&R uncertainties. In addition, real options and optimization arise as the two main approaches researchers use to solve problems in energy system design. Subsequently, the following aspects of interest are discussed in depth: how modeling can be improved, which are the most influential variables, and potential lines of research. Conclusions show the necessity of modeling E&R uncertainties with currently underrepresented methods, suggest several policy recommendations, and encourage the integration of prevailing approaches.
Convolutional Neural Networks for Classifying Electronic Components in Industrial Applications
Authors: Hożyń Stanisław
Published: January 2023

Electronic component classification often constitutes the uncomplicated task of classifying a single object on a simple background. It is because, in many applications, a technological process employs constant lighting conditions, a fixed camera position, and a designated set of classified components. To date, there has not been an adequate attempt to develop a method for object classification under the above conditions in industrial applications. Therefore, this work focuses on the classification problem of a particular technological process. The process classifies electronic components on an assembly line using a fixed-mounted camera. The research investigated all the essential steps required to build a classification system, such as image acquisition, database creation, and neural network development. The first part of the experiment was devoted to creating an image dataset utilising the proposed image acquisition system. Then, custom and pre-trained networks were developed and tested. The results indicated that the pre-trained network (ResNet50) attained the highest accuracy (99.03%), which was better than the 98.99% achieved in relevant research on classifying elementary components. The proposed solution can be adapted to similar technological processes, where a defined set of components is classified under comparable conditions.
Evaluation of Economic Possibilities of Production of Second-Generation Spirit Fuels for Internal Combustion Engines in Poland
Authors: Izdebski Waldemar , Izdebski Michał , Kosiorek Katarzyna
Published: January 2023

With the rapid growth in industrial development, there is a particular need for new environmentally balanced energy source utilization. Ethanol produced from biomass, especially lignocellulosic waste products, represents an attractive, sustainable energy source for fuel production. Until now, in Poland, bioethanol has been produced from edible plants containing sugars susceptible to fermentation. Due to the growing technical and economical needs for alternative biomass source utilization, in the present work, an attempt has been made to identify the most cost-effective strategy to analyze ethyl alcohol production from different lignocellulose sources. The concept of an installation for the first and second stages of bioethanol production was proposed. All of the most relevant elements of the bioethanol production cost analysis were identified and characterized. Cost analyses of all important production process elements showed their relative effects on the production cost and potential for the competitive advantage of applied raw material. The study demonstrates the importance of renewable energy source utilization and the cost-effectiveness of bioethanol production. Furthermore, the proposed less energy- and labor-demanding process, primarily achieved via the implementation of technological medium recovery and recirculation, reduces the production cost and results in higher production efficiency, and therefore has a significant effect on the overall process economy.
Utilisation of Spatial Data in Energy Biomass Supply Chain Research—A Review
Authors: Korpinen Olli-Jussi , Aalto Mika , KC Raghu , Tokola Timo , Ranta Tapio
Published: January 2023

The supply logistics of energy biomasses generally involves a complex system of supply chains, which aim to achieve timely and cost-efficient feedstock deliveries to biomass demand points. The performance of supply chains is often examined in case studies where spatial data about biomass sources and transportation networks are deployed in varying resolutions and to different geographical extents. In this paper, we have reviewed 94 publications, in which spatial data were used in case studies that focused on analysing and optimising energy biomass supply chains. The reviewed publications were classified into 16 categories, according to the publication year, study methods and objectives, biomass types, supply system complexity and the spatial features of each study area. This review found that the use of geographical information systems in this context has increased in popularity in recent years, and that and the multiformity of the applied methods, study objectives and data sources have increased simultaneously. Another finding was that most of the studies that we reviewed focused on countries in which spatial biomass and transport network data of high quality were unrestrictedly available. Nevertheless, case studies, including spatial data from multiple countries, were represented marginally in the papers that we reviewed. In this paper we also argue that a standard way of reporting geographical contents in biomass case studies should be developed to improve the comprehension and reproducibility of the publications in this field of research.
Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure along Highways in the EU
Authors: Szumska Emilia M.
Published: January 2023

One aspect of the competitiveness of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles is the ability to recharge batteries quickly. Ideally, this process would take no longer than it takes to refuel vehicles powered by conventional fuels. The term fast charging is generally used to refer to alternating current (AC) charging of more than 22 kW and direct current (DC) charging often referred to as fast or ultra-fast charging at high power. Currently, fast charging points are located within the public charging infrastructure, mainly along highways. The purpose of this paper was to analyze the availability of existing charging infrastructure equipped with fast charging points for electric vehicles in European Union countries. In addition, the paper discusses EU policy in terms of zero-emission vehicles and technical issues related to charging infrastructure. Based on a review of the current state of charging infrastructure and plans for its development in light of the EU Green Deal for Europe regulations, it can be concluded that in many regions the fast charging infrastructure for electric cars is still insufficiently developed. Due to the great economic diversity of EU countries, the development of charging infrastructure proceeds at different paces. For this reason, it is important to ensure that fast charging points are located primarily along the TEN-T network and highways.
Definition of the Thermodynamic Cycle of a Biomass-Fueled Internal Combustion Engine
Authors: Suanes Gonzalo , Bolonio David , Cantero Antonio
Published: January 2023

Climate change and the depletion of fossil fuels make it urgent to find an alternative to oil-based fuels, especially in machines powered by internal combustion engines. Biomass is currently a poorly used source of energy and meets the necessary conditions to replace a large part of oil-based fuels. However, current engines cannot burn solid biomass and a specific engine needs to be developed. This work proposes the thermodynamic cycle of a biomass-fueled internal combustion engine. The cycle is significantly different from the Otto cycle, since compression and heat absorption occur simultaneously, in a single stage. Since it is not possible to find a function that relates pressure to volume at this stage, an approximate method is proposed to solve the cycle without resorting to numerical methods. The results show that the maximum pressure and temperature of a biomass-fueled engine cycle are somewhat higher than those of the equivalent Otto cycle. However, more significantly, the cycle efficiency does not increase continuously with the compression ratio. There is an optimum compression ratio value for which the cycle efficiency is at its maximum. This fact will condition the design of the motors.
A Review on Industrial CO2 Capture through Microalgae Regulated by Phytohormones and Cultivation Processes
Authors: Chen Hao , Jiang Yuye , Zhu Kai , Yang Jingwen , Fu Yanxia , Wang Shuang
Published: January 2023

Microalgae is a promising metabolism microorganism for the fixation of CO2 from industrial gas while accumulating microalgae biomass. The process of CO2 fixation by microalgae is able to be significantly improved by the regulation of phytohormones. However, the complex metabolic mechanism of microalgae regulated by phytohormones and abiotic stress on CO2 fixation deserves to be explored. To systematically understand the existing status and establish a foundation for promoting the technology, this paper reviews investigations on the metabolic mechanism of microalgae regulated by phytohormones. The influences of nitrogen stress, light intensity stress, heavy metal stress, and salinity stress on CO2 fixation and lipid production are summarized. In addition, a comprehensive overview of the multistage regulation of phytohormones and abiotic stress on CO2 fixation and lipid production through microalgae is presented. The recent advances in CO2 transfer reinforcement and light transmission reinforcement in photobioreactors are discussed. This review provides an insight into the enhancement of CO2 fixation by microalgae regulated by phytohormones, abiotic stress, and mass transfer in multistage photobioreactors.
Improved Speed Extension for Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generators by Means of Winding Reconfiguration
Authors: Zhou Xuanyi , Yang Jiajun , Migliazza Giovanni , Guenter Sandro , Wang Shuo , Gerada Chris , Buticchi Giampaolo
Published: January 2023

With the increased development of electrical subsystems onboard modern transportation platforms, e.g., more electric aircrafts or more electric ships, the need for electric generation systems has increased. Since many motors require electric starting capability, the application of the starter/generator has been the focus of several studies. The peculiarity of such a system is its requirement for high torque at low speed (for the starting) as well as an extended operation range during the normal generation operations. This mismatch between maximum torque and speed comes at the expense of the power density of the electronic converter, which needs to be designed for the worst case situation and, due to the electric machine optimization, often requires field weakening operations. A new winding reconfiguration is proposed to achieve speed extension and provide more potentiality for high-speed applications. This work compares different power trains in terms of efficiency current stress for electric machines. Hardware-in-the-loop results are adopted to verify the practical implementation of the control systems.
Numerical Investigation of the Effect of Surface Wettability and Rotation on Condensation Heat Transfer in a Sludge Dryer Vertical Paddle
Authors: Liu Wei , Gui Miao , Zha Yudong , Li Zengyao
Published: January 2023

In this paper, the applicability of advanced heat transfer enhancement technology to a paddle dryer was discussed. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method was used to simulate condensation heat transfer on the inner surface of a dryer paddle. The effect of surface wettability and rotation on condensation heat transfer and droplet behavior was studied. The results showed that the present CFD model could properly simulate the condensation process on a vertical surface. With a decrease in the contact angle, the filmwise condensation turned into a dropwise condensation, which resulted in a significant increase in heat transfer coefficient and provided an approximately 5% increase in evaporation rate for the paddle dryer by changing the wettability of the inner surface of the paddle. Additionally, with a change in rotational angular velocity, heat transfer performance was almost unchanged under the filmwise condensation condition. However, rotational motion might cause a decrease in wall temperature and the equivalent evaporation rate under the dropwise condensation condition. Only a 2.4% increase in the equivalent evaporation rate was found in dropwise condensation with rotation, which indicated that changing the wettability inside the paddle could not be an effective means to enhance the heat transfer and drying efficiency of a rotating paddle dryer.
The Method of Calculating the Frequency of the Initiating Event in a Dual-Unit Site with the Example of LOOP Events
Authors: Feng Wanxin , Wang Ming , Xu Zhixin , Yu Yu
Published: January 2023

In a nuclear power plant, the consequences of a multi-unit event occurring concurrently are more serious than those of a single-unit event. The first step in the probabilistic safety analysis of multi-units is to analyze the initiating events and calculate the frequency of initiating events for simultaneous events of multiple units. The difficulty in using the fault tree model is that the known data are all frequency data from a single unit and cannot be logically multiplied. In this paper, taking a dual unit as an example, we used the formula to convert the probability of failure of the second unit within 72 h and then build a fault tree model. After analyzing the results of the dual unit, the most frequent cut set was the common cause of failure of the main transformer and of the switching failure of the main and auxiliary external power. The final calculation of the frequency of simultaneous loss of off-site power events for the dual units within 72 h was 3.22 × 10−4/year. After comparing with the single-unit results, it was found that the common cause failure of each unit’s independent equipment was the main reason for the occurrence of a loss of off-site power. Shared equipment in a single unit was ranked low in all the cut sets (such as the stability of the external grid for the main and auxiliary power systems) but was ranked high in multiple units. The calculation results of the frequency of initiating events of double units were two orders of magnitude lower than those of a single unit. However, the consequences of simultaneous events of multiple units were higher than those of single reactors. Therefore, attention should be paid to the risk of a simultaneous loss of off-site power event of multiple units.
Soiling Modelling in Large Grid-Connected PV Plants for Cleaning Optimization
Authors: Redondo Marta , Platero Carlos A. , Moset Antonio , Rodríguez Fernando , Donate Vicente
Published: January 2023

Soiling of PV modules is an issue causing non-negligible losses on PV power plants, between 3 and 4% of the total energy production. Cleaning is the most common way to mitigate soiling. The impact of the cleaning activity can be significant, both in terms of cost and resources consumption. For these reasons, it is important to monitor and predict soiling profiles and establish an optimal cleaning schedule. Especially in locations where raining is irregular or where desert winds carry a high concentration of particles, it is also important to know how precipitation and dust events affect the soiling ratio. This paper presents a new model based on environmental conditions that helps the decision-making process of the cleaning schedule. The model was validated by the analysis of five large grid-connected PV plants in Spain over two years of operation, with a total power of 200 MW. The comparison between the model and soiling sensors at the five locations was included. Excellent results were achieved, the mean difference between sensors and model being 0.71%.