bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Consumption Prediction of a Greenhouse and Optimization of Daily Average Temperature
Authors: Shen Yongtao , Wei Ruihua , Xu Lihong
Published: January 2018

Greenhouses are high energy-consuming and anti-seasonal production facilities. In some cases, energy consumption in greenhouses accounts for 50% of the cost of greenhouse production. The high energy consumption has become a major factor hindering the development of greenhouses. In order to improve the energy efficiency of the greenhouse, it is important to predict its energy consumption. In this study, the energy consumption mathematical model of a Venlo greenhouse is established based on the principle of energy conservation. Three optimization algorithms are used to identify the parameters which are difficult to determine in the energy consumption model. In order to examine the accuracy of the model, some verifications are made. The goal of achieving high yield, high quality and high efficiency production is a problem in the study of greenhouse environment control. Combining the prediction model of greenhouse energy consumption with the relatively accurate weather forecast data for the next week, the energy consumption of greenhouse under different weather conditions is predicted. Taking the minimum energy consumption as the objective function, the indoor daily average temperatures of 7 days are optimized to provide the theoretical reference for the decision-making of heating in the greenhouse. The results show that the optimized average daily temperatures save 9% of the energy cost during a cold wave.
Power Transformer Spatial Acoustic Radiation Characteristics Analysis under Multiple Operating Conditions
Authors: Ying Liming , Wang Donghui , Wang Jinwei , Wang Guodong , Wu Xiaowen , Liu Jiangtao
Published: January 2018

Spatial acoustic radiation characteristics analysis is the precondition of reducing the noise influence of outdoor power transformer while multi-physical field coupling method can be applied to quantify and reveal these acoustic characteristics of a running power transformer. In this study, based on the theoretical analysis about noise generation and dissemination process, an acoustic radiation model about oil-immersed power transformer was established and verified with field test data in time and frequency domain. Then, far-field analysis and directivity analysis were accomplished to characterize acoustic field of power transformer under multiple operating conditions. Finally, the acoustic radiation influence on potential surrounding buildings were analyzed and discussed. The visual results and conclusion provide acoustic guide for the optimal planning and design about both power substation and ambient buildings.
Application and Comparison of Metaheuristic and New Metamodel Based Global Optimization Methods to the Optimal Operation of Active Distribution Networks
Authors: Xiao Hao , Pei Wei , Dong Zuomin , Kong Li , Wang Dan
Published: January 2018

As an imperative part of smart grids (SG) technology, the optimal operation of active distribution networks (ADNs) is critical to the best utilization of renewable energy and minimization of network power losses. However, the increasing penetration of distributed renewable energy sources with uncertain power generation and growing demands for higher quality power distribution are turning the optimal operation scheduling of ADN into complex and global optimization problems with non-unimodal, discontinuous and computation intensive objective functions that are difficult to solve, constituting a critical obstacle to the further advance of SG and ADN technology. In this work, power generation from renewable energy sources and network load demands are estimated using probability distribution models to capture the variation trends of load fluctuation, solar radiation and wind speed, and probability scenario generation and reduction methods are introduced to capture uncertainties and to reduce computation. The Open Distribution System Simulator (OpenDSS) is used in modeling the ADNs to support quick changes to network designs and configurations. The optimal operation of the ADN, is achieved by minimizing both network voltage deviation and power loss under the probability-based varying power supplies and loads. In solving the computation intensive ADN operation scheduling optimization problem, several novel metamodel-based global optimization (MBGO) methods have been introduced and applied. A comparative study has been carried out to compare the conventional metaheuristic global optimization (GO) and MBGO methods to better understand their advantages, drawbacks and limitations, and to provide guidelines for subsequent ADN and smart grid scheduling optimizations. Simulation studies have been carried out on the modified IEEE 13, 33 and 123 node networks to represent ADN test cases. The MBGO methods were found to be more suitable for small- and medium-scale ADN optimal operation scheduling problems, while the metaheuristic GO algorithms are more effective in the optimal operation scheduling of large-scale ADNs with relatively straightforward objective functions that require limited computational time. This research provides solution for ADN optimal operations, and forms the foundation for ADN design optimization.
Long-Term Battery Voltage, Power, and Surface Temperature Prediction Using a Model-Based Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Tang Xiaopeng , Yao Ke , Liu Boyang , Hu Wengui , Gao Furong
Published: January 2018

A battery’s state-of-power (SOP) refers to the maximum power that can be extracted from the battery within a short period of time (e.g., 10 s or 30 s). However, as its use in applications is growing, such as in automatic cars, the ability to predict a longer usage time is required. To be able to do this, two issues should be considered: (1) the influence of both the ambient temperature and the rise in temperature caused by Joule heat, and (2) the influence of changes in the state of charge (SOC). In response, we propose the use of a model-based extreme learning machine (Model-ELM, MELM) to predict the battery future voltage, power, and surface temperature for any given load current. The standard ELM is a kind of single-layer feedforward network (SLFN). We propose using a set of rough models to replace the active functions (such as logsig()) in the ELM for better generalization performance. The model parameters and initial SOC in these “rough models” are randomly selected within a given range, so little prior knowledge about the battery is required. Moreover, the identification of the complex nonlinear system can be transferred into a standard least squares problem, which is suitable for online applications. The proposed method was tested and compared with RLS (Recursive Least Square)-based methods at different ambient temperatures to verify its superiority. The temperature prediction accuracy is higher than ±1.5 °C, and the RMSE (Root Mean Square Error) of the power prediction is less than 0.25 W. It should be noted that the accuracy of the proposed method does not rely on the accuracy of the state estimation such as SOC, thereby improving its robustness.
Development of an Advanced Rule-Based Control Strategy for a PHEV Using Machine Learning
Authors: Son Hanho , Kim Hyunhwa , Hwang Sungho , Kim Hyunsoo
Published: January 2018

This paper presents an advanced rule-based mode control strategy (ARBC) for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) considering the driving cycle characteristics and present battery state of charge (SOC). Using dynamic programming (DP) results, the behavior of the optimal operating mode was investigated for city (UDDS×2, JC08 ×2) and highway (HWFET ×2, NEDC ×2) driving cycles. It was found that the operating mode selection varies according to the driving cycle characteristics and battery SOC. To consider these characteristics, a predictive mode control map was developed using the machine learning algorithm, and ARBC was proposed, which can be implemented in real-time environments. The performance of ARBC was evaluated by comparing it with rule-based mode control (RBC), which is a CD-CS mode control strategy. It was found that the equivalent fuel economy of ARBC was improved by 1.9–3.3% by selecting the proper operating mode from the viewpoint of system efficiency for the whole driving cycle, regardless of the battery SOC.
Influence of Spatial Relationships between Key Strata on the Height of Mining-Induced Fracture Zone: A Case Study of Thick Coal Seam Mining
Authors: Li Peng , Wang Xufeng , Cao Wenhao , Zhang Dongsheng , Qin Dongdong , Wang Hongzhi
Published: January 2018

The behavior of the overburden of working face 20104 at the Wangjialing coal mine was investigated using borehole imaging. The measured height of the conductive fracture zone (CFZ) in the overburden, 148 m, is significantly different from the height that is predicted by an empirical formula. The spatial relationships between key strata (KS) required for their fracturing and their influence on the CFZ’s height were analyzed. The results demonstrate that the spatial relationships between adjacent KS are a major factor behind the abnormal increase in the height of CFZ relative to the coal seam. The height of linkage (HoL) between KS was introduced and an equation for calculating this height was proposed. The study found that the fracturing of a KS could induce fracturing of the adjacent KS above it if their height difference was smaller than the HoL between them. Otherwise, the fractures resulting from the lower KS would terminate at the bottom of the higher KS. When the location of a high KS satisfies certain requirement, the spatial linkage between adjacent KS will allow for the conductive fractures arising in a lower KS to propagate through the high KS as well as the strata controlled by it, thus increasing the height of CFZ in overburden.
Role and Potential of Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer in Anaerobic Digestion
Authors: Baek Gahyun , Kim Jaai , Kim Jinsu , Lee Changsoo
Published: January 2018

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is an effective biological treatment for stabilizing organic compounds in waste/wastewater and in simultaneously producing biogas. However, it is often limited by the slow reaction rates of different microorganisms’ syntrophic biological metabolisms. Stable and fast interspecies electron transfer (IET) between volatile fatty acid-oxidizing bacteria and hydrogenotrophic methanogens is crucial for efficient methanogenesis. In this syntrophic interaction, electrons are exchanged via redox mediators such as hydrogen and formate. Recently, direct IET (DIET) has been revealed as an important IET route for AD. Microorganisms undergoing DIET form interspecies electrical connections via membrane-associated cytochromes and conductive pili; thus, redox mediators are not required for electron exchange. This indicates that DIET is more thermodynamically favorable than indirect IET. Recent studies have shown that conductive materials (e.g., iron oxides, activated carbon, biochar, and carbon fibers) can mediate direct electrical connections for DIET. Microorganisms attach to conductive materials’ surfaces or vice versa according to particle size, and form conductive biofilms or aggregates. Different conductive materials promote DIET and improve AD performance in digesters treating different feedstocks, potentially suggesting a new approach to enhancing AD performance. This review discusses the role and potential of DIET in methanogenic systems, especially with conductive materials for promoting DIET.
Influence of Stator MMF Harmonics on the Utilization of Reluctance Torque in Six-Phase PMA-SynRM with FSCW
Authors: Cheng Luming , Sui Yi , Zheng Ping , Yin Zuosheng , Wang Chuanze
Published: January 2018

Although fractional-slot concentrated winding (FSCW) offers many significant advantages, such as short end-turn windings, high slot filling factor, and low cogging torque, it is frequently limited by excessive stator magnetomotive force (MMF) harmonics which will induce high eddy losses in the permanent magnets (PMs). What is more, in the literature, it can be observed that the reluctance torque of the salient-pole machine with FSCW is usually much lower than that obtained with integral slot winding. To explore the underlying reason why the reluctance torque in a salient machine with FSCW significantly decreases, a new six-phase FSCW with 24 slots and 10 poles, which can significantly reduce the undesirable stator MMF harmonics, is obtained by using the concept of stator shifting. Then, two permanent-magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance machines (PMA-SynRMs) with the proposed winding layout and conventional asymmetric 12-slot/10-pole six-phase winding layout are designed and simulated by the finite-element method (FEM). The reluctance torque, total torque, and d/q-axis inductances with different current phase angles are also compared under different loaded conditions. The results show that a reduction in stator MMF harmonics can indeed lead to a significant enhancement in reluctance torque under heavy loaded conditions, while the dominance will diminish under light loaded conditions.
Performance Improvement for Reduction of Resonance in a Grid-Connected Inverter System Using an Improved DPWM Method
Authors: Park Jin-Hyuk , Lee Kyo-Beum
Published: January 2018

This paper proposes discontinuous pulse width modulation (DPWM) for a grid-connected inverter system using an LCL-filter which consists of two inductors and a capacitor that is connected in parallel per phase. The modulation signal is discontinuously changed, and the harmonic voltages are generated in the wide frequency range at the output terminal of the inverter when the conventional DPWM is used. If these harmonic voltages are present in the resonance frequency band by an LCL-filter, then the resonance problem of the grid current occurs. To suppress the resonance problem, the proposed DPWM injects the sixth harmonic to the modulation signal. Therefore, in the improved DPWM, harmonic voltages at the output terminal of the inverter are sufficiently reduced because the discontinuous change of the modulation signal disappears. The proposed DPWM method is verified by a Powersim (PSIM) simulation (Powersim Inc., Rockville, MD, USA) and experiments with a 3-kW neutral-point clamped (NPC)-type grid-connected inverter system.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient Analysis of a Slim-Type Double Skin Window System: Using an Experimental and a Simulation Method
Authors: Cho Kyung-joo , Cho Dong-woo
Published: January 2018

Double skin facade systems are known to be capable of preventing overheating in curtain wall buildings to a certain degree. The system induces the efficient blocking of sunlight using a center blind during the summer season. Moreover, it enables overheated air in the cavity layer to be sent outdoors, resulting in a reduction of the use of energy for cooling. However, double skin facade systems can be problematic, in that they must be opened according to seasonal conditions to achieve greater energy consumption efficiencies. In current double skin facade systems, the width of the cavity layer was too wide for residents to easily operate the system. When considering this, research on an easy-to-open 270 mm slim-type double skin window (SDSW) was undertaken in order to confirm its energy efficient performance. First, official testing based on the KS L 9107 Standard was undertaken to analyze solar heat gain coefficients (SHGC) and the cavity air temperatures, according to the open and close conditions of the SDSW’s external windows, enabling an analysis of the effect that the opening of windows had on reducing cooling energy needs. Next, SHGCs and cavity air temperatures were studied according to the different opening conditions of the SDSW’s external window to analyze the most optimal effects on cooling energy reductions by Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
Switched Polytopic Controller Applied on a Positive Reconfigurable Power Electronic Converter
Authors: Rodríguez-Licea Martín-A. , Perez-Pinal Francisco-J. , Barranco-Gutiérrez Alejandro-I. , Nuñez-Perez Jose-C.
Published: January 2018

The reconfigurable power electronic converters (RPECs) are a new generation of systems, which modify their physical configuration in terms of a desired input or output operation characteristic. This kind of converters is very attractive in terms of versatility, compactness, and robustness. They have been proposed in areas such as illumination, transport electrification (TE), eenewable energy (RE), smart grids and the internet of things (IoT). However, the resulting converters operate in switched variable operation-regions, rather than over single operation points. As a result, there is a complexity increment on the modeling and control stage such that traditional techniques are no longer valid. In order to overcome these challenges, this paper proposes a kind of switched polytopic controller (SPC) suitable to stabilize an RPEC. Modeling, control, numerical and practical results are reported. To this end, a 400 W positive synchronous bi-directional buck/boost converter is used as a testbed. It is also shown, that the proposed converter and robust controller accomplish a compact, modular and reliable design during different working configuration, operation points and load changes.
Advanced Control Strategies of Induction Machine: Field Oriented Control, Direct Torque Control and Model Predictive Control
Authors: Wang Fengxiang , Zhang Zhenbin , Mei Xuezhu , Rodríguez José , Kennel Ralph
Published: January 2018

Field oriented control (FOC), direct torque control (DTC) and finite set model predictive control (FS-MPC) are different strategies for high performance electrical drive systems. FOC uses linear controllers and pulse width modulation (PWM) to control the fundamental components of the load voltages. On the other hand, DTC and FS-MPC are nonlinear strategies that generate directly the voltage vectors in the absence of a modulator. This paper presents all three methods starting from theoretic operating principles, control structures and implementation. Experimental assessment is performed to discuss their advantages and limitations in detail. As main conclusions of this work, it is affirmed that different strategies have their own merits and all meet the requirements of modern high performance drives.
Flexural Behavior of Hybrid PVA Fiber and AR-Glass Textile Reinforced Geopolymer Composites
Authors: Shaikh Faiz , Patel Aditya
Published: January 2018

Textile reinforced mortar or concrete, a thin cementitious composite reinforced by non-corrosive polymer textile fabric, was developed and has been researched for its role on repair and strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Due to embedment of polymeric textile fabric inside the cementitious matrix, many researchers argued the superiority of this technology than the externally bonded fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) sheet in RC in terms of prevention of debonding of FRP and durability in fire. However, due to use of cement rich matrix the existing development of textile reinforced concrete (TRC) need to be more environmental friendly by replacing cement based binder with geopolymeric binder. This paper presents a first study on the flexural behavior of alkali resistant glass fiber textile reinforced geopolymer (TRG). In this study, two types of geopolymer binder is considered. One is fly ash based heat cured geopolymer and the other is fly ash/slag blended ambient air cured geopolymer binder. Both geopolymer types are considered in the TRG and the results are benchmarked with the current cement based TRC. The effect of short polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber as hybrid reinforced with alkali-resistant (AR) glass fiber textile on the flexural behavior of above TRC and TRGs is also studied. Results show deflection hardening behavior of both TRGs with higher flexural strength in heat cured TRG and higher deflection capacity at peak load in ambient air cured TRG. The increase in PVA fiber volume fraction from 1% to 1.5% did not show any improvement in flexural strength of both TRGs although TRC showed good improvement. In the case of deflection at peak load, an opposite phenomenon is observed where the deflection at peak load in both TRGs is increased due to increase in PVA fiber volume fractions.
Effects of Cold Plasma on Food Quality: A Review
Authors: Pankaj Shashi , Wan Zifan , Keener Kevin
Published: January 2018

Cold plasma (CP) technology has proven very effective as an alternative tool for food decontamination and shelf-life extension. The impact of CP on food quality is very crucial for its acceptance as an alternative food processing technology. Due to the non-thermal nature, CP treatments have shown no or minimal impacts on the physical, chemical, nutritional and sensory attributes of various products. This review also discusses the negative impacts and limitations posed by CP technology for food products. The limited studies on interactions of CP species with food components at the molecular level offers future research opportunities. It also highlights the need for optimization studies to mitigate the negative impacts on visual, chemical, nutritional and functional properties of food products. The design versatility, non-thermal, economical and environmentally friendly nature of CP offers unique advantages over traditional processing technologies. However, CP processing is still in its nascent form and needs further research to reach its potential.
In BPS1 Downregulated Roots, the BYPASS1 Signal Disrupts the Induction of Cortical Cell Divisions in Bean-Rhizobium Symbiosis
Authors: Arthikala Manoj-Kumar , Nanjareddy Kalpana , Lara Miguel
Published: January 2018

BYPASS1 (BPS1), which is a well-conserved gene in plants, is required for normal root and shoot development. In the absence of BPS1 gene function, Arabidopsis overproduces a mobile signalling compound (the BPS1 signal) in roots, and this transmissible signal arrests shoot growth and causes abnormal root development. In addition to the shoot and root meristem activities, the legumes also possess transient meristematic activity in root cortical cells during Rhizobium symbiosis. We explored the role of Phaseolus vulgaris BPS1 during nodule primordium development using an RNA-interference (RNAi) silencing approach. Our results show that upon Rhizobium infection, the PvBPS1-RNAi transgenic roots failed to induce cortical cell divisions without affecting the rhizobia-induced root hair curling and infection thread formation. The transcript accumulation of early nodulin genes, cell cyclins, and cyclin-dependent kinase genes was affected in RNAi lines. Interestingly, the PvBPS1-RNAi root nodule phenotype was partially rescued by exogenous application of fluridone, a carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitor, which was used because the carotenoids are precursors of BPS1 signalling molecules. Furthermore, we show that the PvBPS1 promoter was active in the nodule primordia. Together, our data show that PvBPS1 plays a vital role in the induction of meristematic activity in root cortical cells and in the establishment of nodule primordia during Phaseolus-Rhizobium symbiosis.
Correction: Reinauer et al., The Clinical Course of Patients with Preschool Manifestation of Type 1 Diabetes Is Independent of the HLA DR-DQ Genotype. Genes 2017, 8, 146
Authors: Reinauer Christina , Rosenbauer Joachim , Bächle Christina , Herder Christian , Roden Michael , Ellard Sian , De Franco Elisa , Karges Beate , Holl Reinhard , Enczmann Jürgen , Meissner Thomas
Published: January 2018

The article entitled “The Clinical Course of Patients with Preschool Manifestation of Type 1 Diabetes is Independent of the HLA DR-DQ Genotype” contained a calculation error in Table 2 and the statistical methods used were not completely described.[...]
Multibeam Bathymetric Investigations of the Morphology and Associated Bedforms, Sulina Channel, Danube Delta
Authors: Duţu Florin , Panin Nicolae , Ion Gabriel , Tiron Duţu Laura
Published: January 2018

In the Danube Delta, on the Sulina branch, the morphology, sediment, and bedform characteristics were investigated. Three-dimensional (3D) bathymetry, flow velocity, suspended-load concentration, and liquid and solid discharge data were acquired throughout several cross sections along the Sulina channel, in order to investigate the distribution of water and sediment discharges and their influence against the river bed. A single observation (in February 2007) was made regarding the geometry, sediment composition, and hydraulic conditions under which the dunes grew and degenerated. The investigation focuses here mostly on the geometrical parameters of these bedforms, such as height, length, as well as grain size characteristic of the sediment and water dynamics. Based on in-site measurements, different hydraulic parameters were calculated, such as bed shear stresses and Reynolds number. During the field campaign, the measured water mean velocity was from v = 0.22–1.13 m∙s−1. At the same time, the measured range of shear stresses within the dune field formation was from τ0 = 2.86 N·m−2 (on the cutoffs) to 8.62 N·m−2 (on the main channel). It was found that the correlation between height (H) and length (L) of the Sulina branch dunes describes the formula: H = 0.093L0.5268. The bedforms of the Sulina channel are, in general, developed in fine sand (D50 between 0.06 and 0.35 mm).
Feasibility Study of SQp and SQs Attributes Application for Facies Classification
Authors: Hermana Maman , Ngui Jia , Weng Sum Chow , Prasad Ghosh Deva
Published: January 2018

Formation evaluation is a critical requirement in oil and gas exploration and development projects. Although it may be costly, wireline logs need to be acquired to evaluate and understand the subsurface formation. Gamma ray and resistivity are the two main well-log data used for formation evaluation purposes. However, outside the well, formation evaluation becomes difficult, as these logs are not available. Hence, it is important to have other data equivalent to the gamma ray or resistivity logs, which can be derived from other technique, such as seismic data. As a consequence, the dependency on well-log data can be avoided. Thus, the complexity in formation evaluation outside the well, such as the determination of facies, lithology, and fluid content, as well as petrophysical properties can be solved accurately even without well-log data. The objective of this paper was to demonstrate an application of the SQp and SQs attributes for facies classification. These attributes were derived from attenuation attributes through rock physics approximation by using basic elastic properties: P-wave, S-wave, and density. A series of tests were carried out to show the applicability of these attributes on well-logs and real seismic data from offshore the Malaysia Peninsular. Simultaneous inversion was used in the data sets to produce the three-dimensional (3D) SQp and SQs attributes required as inputs of a neural network engine in defining the facies distribution. The results showed that the SQp attribute was very similar to the gamma ray, while the SQs attribute was similar to the resistivity responses even in different reservoir conditions, including low resistivity low contrast and coal masking environment. In conclusion, the SQp motif, which is similar to the gamma ray motif, can potentially be used for facies classification/identification. Together with the SQs attribute, the SQp attribute can be used as input for the facies classification workflow. The application of the SQp and SQs attributes successfully identified the gas sand distribution and separated it clearly from the brine distribution in an offshore Malaysian field.
Development of a Seamless, High-Resolution Bathymetric Model to Compare Reef Morphology around the Subtropical Island Shelves of Lord Howe Island and Balls Pyramid, Southwest Pacific Ocean
Authors: Linklater Michelle , Hamylton Sarah , Brooke Brendan , Nichol Scott , Jordan Alan , Woodroffe Colin
Published: January 2018

Lord Howe Island and Balls Pyramid are located approximately 600 km offshore of the southeastern Australian mainland, in the subtropical waters of the northern Tasman Sea. Lord Howe Island hosts the most southern coral reef in the Pacific Ocean, and the shelves surrounding both islands feature fossil coral reefs. This study creates a seamless, high-resolution (5 m cell size) bathymetry model of the two shelves to compare and contrast the extent of reef development and shelf morphology. This was produced by integrating satellite-derived depth data (derived to 35 m depth) and multibeam echosounder (MBES) data. Image partitioning and filtering improved the accuracy of the bathymetry estimates and the suitability for integration with MBES data. Diverse accretionary and erosional geomorphic features were mapped on both shelves, with fossil reefs dominating the shelves in 25–50 m depth. Similar patterns of shelf morphology were observed for the middle and outer shelves, while the inner shelf regions were most dissimilar, with reef development greater around Lord Howe Island compared to the more restricted inner shelf reefs around Balls Pyramid. Understanding the relative extent and morphology of shelf features provides insights into the geological and ecological processes that have influenced the formation of the shelves.
The Emergence and Unfolding of Telemonitoring Practices in Different Healthcare Organizations
Authors: Christensen Jannie
Published: January 2018

Telemonitoring, a sub-category of telemedicine, is promoted as a solution to meet the challenges in Western healthcare systems in terms of an increasing population of people with chronic conditions and fragmentation issues. Recent findings from large-scale telemonitoring programs reveal that these promises are difficult to meet in complex real-life settings which may be explained by concentrating on the practices that emerge when telemonitoring is used to treat patients with chronic conditions. This paper explores the emergence and unfolding of telemonitoring practices in relation to a large-scale, inter-organizational home telemonitoring program which involved 5 local health centers, 10 district nurse units, four hospitals, and 225 general practice clinics in Denmark. Twenty-eight interviews and 28 h of observations of health professionals and administrative staff were conducted over a 12-month period from 2014 to 2015. This study’s findings reveal how telemonitoring practices emerged and unfolded differently among various healthcare organizations. This study suggests that the emergence and unfolding of novel practices is the result of complex interplay between existing work practices, alterations of core tasks, inscriptions in the technology, and the power to either adopt or ignore such novel practices. The study enhances our understanding of how novel technology like telemonitoring impacts various types of healthcare organizations when implemented in a complex inter-organizational context.
Value Creation in M&A Transactions, Conference Calls, and Shareholder Protection
Authors: Fraunhoffer Robert , Kim Ho , Schiereck Dirk
Published: January 2018

This study investigates whether conference calls accompanying M&A announcements in Europe provide valuable information for capital market participants and hence induce an abnormal stock price revaluation on the bidder’s equity. Based on handpicked data for transactions between 2008 and 2012 we focus on the five most acquisitive country markets in Europe. Overall, our results show that bidders are more likely to conduct conference calls with increasing transaction value, for transactions with public targets and non-diversifying transactions. Further, the decision for voluntary disclosure is positively influenced by increased bidder size and the comparably weaker governance systems for German and Swiss firms. After controlling for self-selection bias and other determinants of stock returns around mergers and acquisitions (M&A) announcement, evidence is in strong support that firms with merger-related conference calls yield a higher abnormal return than firms merely publishing a press release. However, significant favourable investor reaction is only present in the UK and French subsamples and in the subsamples of industries with a focus on research and development (R&D).
Real Estate Risk Analysis: The Case of Caserma Garibaldi in Milan
Authors: Sdino Leopoldo , Rosasco Paolo , Magoni Sara
Published: January 2018

The global economic crisis and deep financialization processes recently suffered by the real estate market have exposed the latter to further and greater risks. Against this, the importance of real estate risk management has noticeably grown within the dynamics of both markets, real estate and finance. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to develop a comprehensive tool for the risk rating that will consider both the systematic and idiosyncratic risks possibly incurred during a real estate operation, in order to deliver their actual magnitude. It will be composed of 33 criteria whose weights are determined through the application of an analytic hierarchic process on a panel of market operators. This tool is primarily addressed to investors since it allows making strategic decisions while being supported by an analytical procedure that also ensures transparency of the conduct for the rating. An application of the presented tool within the decision-making procedure of the re-functionalization of a former barracks in Milan’s city center is then described; this case study will also constitute an opportunity to highlight the strong relationship that occurs between the profitability of an operation and the risk incurred.
Cartographic Redundancy in Reducing Change Blindness in Detecting Extreme Values in Spatio-Temporal Maps
Authors: Cybulski Paweł , Medyńska-Gulij Beata
Published: January 2018

The article investigates the possibility of using cartographic redundancy to reduce the change blindness effect on spatio-temporal maps. Unlike in the case of previous research, the authors take a look at various methods of cartographic presentation and modify the visual variables in order to see how those modifications affect the user’s perception of changes on spatio-temporal maps. The study described in the following article was the first attempt at minimizing the change blindness phenomenon by manipulating graphical parameters of cartographic visualization and using various quantitative mapping methods. Research shows that cartographic redundancy is not enough to completely resolve the problem of change blindness; however, it might help reduce it.
A New Geographical Cluster View on Passenger Vehicle Purchasing in Chinese Cities
Authors: Liu Daqian , Song Wei , Lu Jia , Xie Chunyan , Wen Xin
Published: January 2018

It is important to understand urban auto markets from a spatial perspective. Specifically, the question of how to simplify and visualize the relatedness of the complicated urban markets arises. Based on the concept of ‘product space’, this research explores the similarity between Chinese cities and identifies the city clusters using data of automobile sales in 2012. A city’s automobile market is shared by different manufacturers and the proximity between two cities is evaluated based on the similarity or relatedness in the structure of the two markets. The spatial structures of the ‘city clusters’ derived from the proximities of automobile markets among cities are mapped, examined, and interpreted. The analysis indicates that cities with higher proximity tend to be similar. According to the intercity proximity index, four geographical city-clusters are identified: the Southeast developed city-cluster, North China city-cluster, Northeast city-cluster, and West city-cluster. Cities in the same cluster tend to share many common characteristics while cities in different clusters exhibit obvious variances, especially in terms of economic status and dominant automakers.
Spatial Data Structure and Functionalities for 3D Land Management System Implementation: Israel Case Study
Authors: Jaljolie Ruba , Van Oosterom Peter , Dalyot Sagi
Published: January 2018

With the existence of mature technologies and modern urban planning necessities, there is a growing public demand to improve the efficiency and transparency of government administrations. This includes the formation of a comprehensive modern spatial land management (cadastre) system having the capacity to handle various types of data in a uniform way—above-terrain and below-terrain—enabling the utilization of land and space for various complex entities. To utilize existing knowledge and systems, an adaptive approach suggests extending and augmenting the existing 2D cadastre systems to facilitate 3D land management capabilities. Following a comprehensive examination of the Survey of Israel’s operative cadastral system that supports 2D land administration, it turned out that it is crucial to outline new concepts, modify existing terms and define specification guidelines. That is, to augment and provide full 3D support to the current operative cadastral system, and to create a common and uniform language for the various parties involved in the preparation of 2D and 3D mutation plans required for modern urban planning needs. This study refers to the legal and technical aspects of Survey of Israel’s CHANIT, which is the legal set of cadastral work processes specifications, focusing on database, data structure, functionality, and regulation gaps while emphasizing on 3D cadastral processes. The outcome is recommendations concerning data structure and functionalities needed to be addressed for the facilitation and implementation of an operative 3D land management system in Israel.
Differences in the Plasma Proteome of Patients with Hypothyroidism before and after Thyroid Hormone Replacement: A Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Alfadda Assim , Benabdelkamel Hicham , Masood Afshan , Jammah Anwar , Ekhzaimy Aishah
Published: January 2018

Thyroid hormone is a potent stimulator of metabolism, playing a critical role in regulating energy expenditure and in key physiological mechanisms, such as growth and development. Although administration of thyroid hormone in the form of levo thyroxine (l-thyroxine) has been used to treat hypothyroidism for many years, the precise molecular basis of its physiological actions remains uncertain. Our objective was to define the changes in circulating protein levels that characterize alterations in thyroid hormone status. To do this, an integrated untargeted proteomic approach with network analysis was used. This study included 10 age-matched subjects with newly diagnosed overt hypothyroidism. Blood was collected from subjects at baseline and at intervals post-treatment with l-thyroxine until they reached to euthyroid levels. Plasma protein levels were compared by two-dimensional difference in gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) pre- and post-treatment. Twenty differentially expressed protein spots were detected. Thirteen were identified, and were found to be unique protein sequences by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Ten proteins were more abundant in the hypothyroid vs. euthyroid state: complement C2, serotransferrin, complement C3, Ig κ chain C region, α-1-antichymotrypsin, complement C4-A, haptoglobin, fibrinogen α chain, apolipoprotein A-I, and Ig α-1 chain C region. Three proteins were decreased in abundance in the hypothyroid vs. euthyroid state: complement factor H, paraneoplastic antigen-like protein 6A, and α-2-macroglobulin. The differentially abundant proteins were investigated by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to reveal their associations with known biological functions. Their connectivity map included interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) as central nodes and the pathway identified with the highest score was involved in neurological disease, psychological disorders, and cellular movement. The comparison of the plasma proteome between the hypothyroid vs euthyroid states revealed differences in the abundance of proteins involved in regulating the acute phase response.
Effects of Plant Oil Interesterified Triacylglycerols on Lipemia and Human Health
Authors: Alfieri Andreina , Imperlini Esther , Nigro Ersilia , Vitucci Daniela , Orrù Stefania , Daniele Aurora , Buono Pasqualina , Mancini Annamaria
Published: January 2018

The position of the fatty acids (sn-1, sn-2 and sn-3) (stereospecific numbering (sn)) in triacylglycerol (TAG) molecules produces a characteristic stereospecificity that defines the physical properties of the fats and influences their absorption, metabolism and uptake into tissues. Fat interesterification is a process that implies a positional distribution of fatty acids (FAs) within the TAG molecules, generating new TAG species, without affecting the FA cis-trans natural balance. The interesterified (IE) fats, frequently used in the food industry comprise fats that are rich in long-chain saturated FAs, such as palmitic acid (16:0) and stearic acid (18:0). Within the interesterified fats, a critical role is played by FA occupying the sn-2 position; in fact, the presence of an unsaturated FA in this specific position influences early metabolic processing and postprandial clearance that in turn could induce atherogenesis and thrombogenesis events. Here, we provide an overview on the role of TAG structures and interesterified palmitic and stearic acid-rich fats on fasting and postprandial lipemia, focusing our attention on their physical properties and their effects on human health.
Genetic Diversity and Genetic Relationships of Purple Willow (Salix purpurea L.) from Natural Locations
Authors: Sulima Paweł , Prinz Kathleen , Przyborowski Jerzy
Published: January 2018

In this study, the genetic diversity and structure of 13 natural locations of Salix purpurea were determined with the use of AFLP (amplified length polymorphism), RAPD (randomly amplified polymorphic DNA) and ISSR (inter-simple sequence repeats). The genetic relationships between 91 examined S. purpurea genotypes were evaluated by analyses of molecular variance (AMOVA), principal coordinates analyses (PCoA) and UPGMA (unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean) dendrograms for both single marker types and a combination of all marker systems. The locations were assigned to distinct regions and the analysis of AMOVA (analysis of molecular variance) revealed a high genetic diversity within locations. The genetic diversity between both regions and locations was relatively low, but typical for many woody plant species. The results noted for the analyzed marker types were generally comparable with few differences in the genetic relationships among S. purpurea locations. A combination of several marker systems could thus be ideally suited to understand genetic diversity patterns of the species. This study makes the first attempt to broaden our knowledge of the genetic parameters of the purple willow (S. purpurea) from natural location for research and several applications, inter alia breeding purposes.
Proteasome and Organs Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Oliva Joan
Published: January 2018

The treatment of organ failure on patients requires the transplantation of functional organs, from donors. Over time, the methodology of transplantation was improved by the development of organ preservation solutions. The storage of organs in preservation solutions is followed by the ischemia of the organ, resulting in a shortage of oxygen and nutrients, which damage the tissues. When the organ is ready for the transplantation, the reperfusion of the organ induces an increase of the oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and inflammation which causes tissue damage, resulting in a decrease of the transplantation success. However, the addition of proteasome inhibitor in the preservation solution alleviated the injuries due to the ischemia-reperfusion process. The proteasome is a protein structure involved in the regulation the inflammation and the clearance of damaged proteins. The goal of this review is to summarize the role of the proteasome and pharmacological compounds that regulate the proteasome in protecting the organs from the ischemia-reperfusion injury.
The Role of Compounds Derived from Natural Supplement as Anticancer Agents in Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Review
Authors: Haque Inamul , Subramanian Arvind , Huang Chao , Godwin Andrew , Van Veldhuizen Peter , Banerjee Snigdha , Banerjee Sushanta
Published: January 2018

Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is the most prominent kidney cancer derived from renal tubules and accounts for roughly 85% of all malignant kidney cancer. Every year, over 60,000 new cases are registered, and about 14,000 people die from RCC. The incidence of this has been increasing significantly in the U.S. and other countries. An increased understanding of molecular biology and the genomics of RCC has uncovered several signaling pathways involved in the progression of this cancer. Significant advances in the treatment of RCC have been reported from agents approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that target these pathways. These agents have become drugs of choice because they demonstrate clinical benefit and increased survival in patients with metastatic disease. However, the patients eventually relapse and develop resistance to these drugs. To improve outcomes and seek approaches for producing long-term durable remission, the search for more effective therapies and preventative strategies are warranted. Treatment of RCC using natural products is one of these strategies to reduce the incidence. However, recent studies have focused on these chemoprevention agents as anti-cancer therapies given they can inhibit tumor cell grow and lack the severe side effects common to synthetic compounds. This review elaborates on the current understanding of natural products and their mechanisms of action as anti-cancer agents. The present review will provide information for possible use of these products alone or in combination with chemotherapy for the prevention and treatment of RCC.
Liver Graft Susceptibility during Static Cold Storage and Dynamic Machine Perfusion: DCD versus Fatty Livers
Authors: Ferrigno Andrea , Di Pasqua Laura , Berardo Clarissa , Siciliano Veronica , Rizzo Vittoria , Mannucci Barbara , Richelmi Plinio , Croce Anna , Vairetti Mariapia
Published: January 2018

We compared static preservation (cold storage, CS, 4 °C) with dynamic preservation (machine perfusion, MP, 20 °C) followed by reperfusion using marginal livers: a model of donation after cardiac death (DCD) livers and two models of fatty livers, the methionine-choline deficient (MCD) diet model, and obese Zucker (fa/fa) rats. CS injury in DCD livers was reversed by an oxygenated washout (OW): hepatic damage, bile flow, and the ATP/ADP ratio in the OW + CS group was comparable with the ratio obtained with MP. Using fatty livers, CS preservation induced a marked release in hepatic and biliary enzymes in obese Zucker rats when compared with the MCD group. The same trend occurred for bile flow. No difference was found when comparing MP in MCD and obese Zucker rats. Fatty acid analysis demonstrated that the total saturated (SFA)/polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio was, respectively, 1.5 and 0.71 in obese Zucker and MCD rats. While preservation damage in DCD livers is associated with the ATP/ADP recovered with OW, injury in fatty livers is linked to fatty acid constituents: livers from obese. Zucker rats, with greater content in saturated FA, might be more prone to CS injury. On the contrary, MCD livers with elevated PUFA content might be less susceptible to hypothermia.