bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three Months of Strength Training Changes the Gene Expression of Inflammation-Related Genes in PBMC of Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Liberman Keliane , Njemini Rose , Forti Louis Nuvagah , Cools Wilfried , Debacq-Chainiaux Florence , Kooijman Ron , Beyer Ingo , Bautmans Ivan
Published: February 2022

Here, we investigate changes in inflammation-related gene-expression in peripheral mononuclear blood cells (PBMC) by strength training. A total of 14 women aged ≥65 years were randomized into 3 months of either 3×/week intensive strength training (IST: 3×10 rep at 80% 1RM), strength endurance training (SET: 2×30 reps at 40% 1RM) or control (CON: 3×30 sec stretching). Differentially expressed genes (fold change ≤0.67 or ≥1.5) were identified by targeted RNA-sequencing of 407 inflammation-related genes. A total of 98 genes (n = 61 pro-inflammatory) were significantly affected. IST and SET altered 14 genes in a similar direction and 19 genes in the opposite direction. Compared to CON, IST changed the expression of 6 genes in the same direction, and 17 genes in the SET. Likewise, 18 and 13 genes were oppositely expressed for, respectively, IST and SET compared to CON. Changes in gene expression affected 33 canonical pathways related to chronic inflammation. None of the altered pathways overlapped between IST and SET. Liver X Receptor/Retinoid X Receptor Activation (LXR/RXR) and Triggering Receptor Expressed On Myeloid Cells 1 (TREM1) pathways were enriched oppositely in both training groups. We conclude that three months IST and SET can induce changes in CLIP-related gene expression in PBMC, but by affecting different genes and related pathways.
Valproic Acid-Induced CCN1 Promotes Osteogenic Differentiation by Increasing CCN1 Protein Stability through HDAC1 Inhibition in Tonsil-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Yu Yeonsil , Oh Se-Young , Kim Ha Yeong , Choi Ji-Young , Jo Sangmee Ahn , Jo Inho
Published: February 2022

Our previous study found that the level of CCN1 increases as osteogenic differentiation progresses in tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells (TMSCs). This study investigated how CCN1 is regulated through HDAC inhibition in TMSCs and their relationship with osteogenesis. Valproic acid (VPA) (1–5 mM), a well-known histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, strongly inhibited TMSC proliferation without altering MSC-specific surface markers, CD14, 34, 45, 73, 90 and 105. However, CD146 expression increased at 5 mM VPA. VPA increased osteogenic differentiation of TMSCs but decreased adipogenesis and chondrogenesis, as evidenced by the cell-specific staining of differentiation. The former was validated by the increased osteocalcin (OCN). The changes in CCN1 by VPA was biphasic; it increased until 48 h and decreased thereafter. Knockdown of CCN1 by using siRNA inhibited the osteogenic effect of VPA. VPA had no effect on CCN1 mRNA expression, but inhibition of protein synthesis by cycloheximide showed that VPA slowed down the CCN1 protein degradation. Moreover, overexpression of HDAC1 completely inhibited VPA-induced CCN1. Our results indicate that VPA inhibits the HDAC1, inducing CCN1 protein stability rather than gene expression, thereby promoting osteogenic differentiation of TMSCs. These findings present the noble implication of VPA as an inhibitor of HDAC1 to facilitate CCN1-induced osteogenic differentiation of MSCs.
Glucocorticoids Are Not Associated with Bone Mineral Density in Patients with Polymyalgia Rheumatica, Giant Cell Arteritis and Other Vasculitides—Cross-Sectional Baseline Analysis of the Prospective Rh-GIOP Cohort
Authors: Palmowski Andriko , Wiebe Edgar , Muche Burkhard , Hermann Sandra , Dejaco Christian , Matteson Eric , Buttgereit Frank
Published: February 2022

Background: Glucocorticoids (GCs) can cause osteoporosis (OP). Prior observational research on bone density and the effects of GCs in polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and vasculitides is scarce and inconclusive. Methods: Rh-GIOP is a prospective cohort study of bone health in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases. In this cross-sectional baseline analysis, we focused on patients with PMR and different forms of vasculitides. Multivariable linear regression was used to model the effect of current and cumulative GC intake on the minimum T-score at any site (mTs; at either lumbar spine or hip), with comprehensive adjustment for confounders. In separate models, GCs were modelled both as continuous and categorical predictors. Sensitivity analyses, stratifying by measurement site and disease, were conducted. Results: A total of 198 patients, with a mean age of 67.7 ± 11.4 years and a mean disease duration of 5.3 ± 6.3 years, were included. Most patients suffered from PMR (36%), giant cell arteritis (26%) or granulomatosis with polyangiitis (17%). Women comprised 66.7% of the patients, and 87.4% were currently taking GCs. The mean CRP was 13.2 ± 26.1 mg/L. OP diagnosed by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) (T-score ≤ −2.5) was present in 19.7% of the patients. While 88% were taking vitamin D supplements, calcium supplementation (4%) and treatment with anti-resorptive agents (17%) were relatively infrequent. Only 7% had a vitamin D deficit. Neither current (β(continuous model) = −0.01, 97.5% CI –0.02 to 0.01; p(all models) ≥ 0.49) nor cumulative (β(continuous model) = 0.01, 97.5% CI −0.04 to 0.07; p(all models) ≥ 0.35) GC doses were associated with mTs in any model. CRP was not associated with mTs in any model (p(all models) ≥ 0.56), and no interaction between CRP and GC intake was observed (p for interaction(all models) ≥ 0.32). Across all analyses, lower body mass index (p(all models) ≤ 0.01), history of vertebral fractures (p(all models) ≤ 0.02) and proton-pump inhibitor intake (p(all models) ≤ 0.04) were associated with bone loss. Sensitivity analyses with femoral neck and lumbar spine T-scores as dependent variables led to similar results as the analysis that excluded patients with PMR. Conclusions: In this cohort of PMR and vasculitides, we found a similar prevalence of OP by DXA to the overall elderly German population. Vitamin D supplementation was very common, and vitamin D insufficiency was less frequent than expected in Germans. There was no association between current or cumulative GC intake, CRP and impaired bone density. Proton-pump inhibitors seem to be a major, but somewhat neglected, risk factor for OP and should be given more attention. Our findings require confirmation from longitudinal analyses of the Rh-GIOP and other cohorts.
Prevention of Lipotoxicity in Pancreatic Islets with Gammahydroxybutyrate
Authors: Yung Justin Hou Ming , Yeung Lucy Shu Nga , Ivovic Aleksandar , Tan Yao Fang , Jentz Emelien Mariella , Batchuluun Battsetseg , Gohil Himaben , Wheeler Michael B. , Joseph Jamie W. , Giacca Adria , Mamelak Mortimer
Published: February 2022

Oxidative stress caused by the exposure of pancreatic ß-cells to high levels of fatty acids impairs insulin secretion. This lipotoxicity is thought to play an important role in ß-cell failure in type 2 diabetes and can be prevented by antioxidants. Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), an endogenous antioxidant and energy source, has previously been shown to protect mice from streptozotocin and alloxan-induced diabetes; both compounds are generators of oxidative stress and yield models of type-1 diabetes. We sought to determine whether GHB could protect mouse islets from lipotoxicity caused by palmitate, a model relevant to type 2 diabetes. We found that GHB prevented the generation of palmitate-induced reactive oxygen species and the associated lipotoxic inhibition of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion while increasing the NADPH/NADP+ ratio. GHB may owe its antioxidant and insulin secretory effects to the formation of NADPH.
A Comparison of the Effects of Several Foliar Forms of Magnesium Fertilization on ‘Superior Seedless’ (Vitis vinifera L.) in Saline Soils
Authors: El-Ezz Sally F. Abo , A. Lo’ay A. , Al-Harbi Nadi Awad , Al-Qahtani Salem Mesfir , Allam Hitham M. , Abdein Mohamed A. , Abdelgawad Zinab A.
Published: February 2022

Magnesium (Mg) is the most essential element constituent in chlorophyll molecules that regulates photosynthesis processes. The physiological response of ‘Superior Seedless’ grapes was evaluated under different foliar magnesium fertilization such as sulfate magnesium (MgSO4·7 H2O), magnesium disodium EDTA (Mg-EDTA), and magnesium nanoparticles (Mg-NPs) during the berry development stages (flowering, fruit set, veraison, and harvest). In general, the ‘Superior Seedless’ vine had a higher performance in photosynthesis with Mg-NPs application than other forms. The Fy/Fm ratio declined rapidly after the fruit set stage; then, it decreased gradually up until the harvesting stage. However, both MgSO4 and Mg-EDTA forms showed slight differences in Fv/Fm ratio during the berry development stages. The outcomes of this research suggest that the Fv/Fm ratio during the growth season of the ‘Superior Seedless’ vine may be a good tool to assess magnesium fertilization effects before visible deficiency symptoms appear. Mg-NPs are more effective at improving ‘Superior Seedless’ berry development than the other magnesium forms. These findings suggest that applying foliar Mg-NPs to vines grown on salinity-sandy soil alleviates the potential Mg deficiency in ‘Superior Seedless’ vines and improves bunches quality.
A Case of ALK-Rearranged Combined Lung Adenocarcinoma and Neuroendocrine Carcinoma with Diffuse Bone Metastasis and Partial Response to Alectinib
Authors: Lim Chloe A. , Banyi Norbert , Tucker Tracy , Ionescu Diana N. , Melosky Barbara
Published: February 2022

We report a rare case of stage IV pulmonary combined large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) and adenocarcinoma (ACA), both demonstrating anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangement by IHC and FISH. This 61-year-old lifelong nonsmoking Asian woman presented with a cough, and after diagnosis and surgical treatment, completed four cycles of adjuvant cisplatin and etoposide chemotherapy. She subsequently developed recurrence with bony metastases of exclusively ALK-positive LCNEC. Alectinib was started, and the patient experienced a partial response.
Few Differences in Energy Intake and Diet Quality of Children and Adolescents across BMI Categories, with and without Accounting for Underreporters: NHANES 2005–2014
Authors: Watowicz Rosanna P. , Hand Rosa K.
Published: February 2022

Previous studies of the relationship between energy intake and child weight have shown mixed results and have largely not described differences in diet quality or the impact of underreporting. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between dietary intake and childhood obesity by assessing energy intake and diet quality across BMI categories for 2–19-year-old children before and after excluding underreporters. Energy intake and the Healthy Eating Index 2010 (HEI) were studied for 2–19-year-old children using data from 2005–2014 NHANES. Underreporters were defined as children consuming <100% of their predicted resting energy expenditure (REE) and were excluded from some analyses. There were no statistically significant differences in HEI scores across weight categories; mean HEI total score was 47.1 (SE 0.23) out of a possible 100. When considering all 12–19-year-old children, those in the overweight, obesity, and severe obesity categories had a lower mean energy intake than children in the healthy weight category (p < 0.001). Excluding underreporters, 6–11-year-old children in the overweight, obesity, and severe obesity categories had a higher energy intake than healthy weight children (p < 0.001). In both analyses, children in the overweight, obesity, and severe obesity categories reported consuming a lower % REE than healthy weight children. Diet quality in all children is low, and the relationship between reported energy intake and BMI remains complex. Healthy eating messages should target all children.
Survey of Software-Implemented Soft Error Protection
Authors: Ko Yohan
Published: February 2022

As soft errors are important design concerns in embedded systems, several schemes have been presented to protect embedded systems against them. Embedded systems can be protected by hardware redundancy; however, hardware-based protections cannot provide flexible protection due to hardware-only protection modifications. Further, they incur significant overheads in terms of area, performance, and power consumption. Therefore, hardware redundancy techniques are not appropriate for resource-constrained embedded systems. On the other hand, software-based protection techniques can be an attractive alternative to protect embedded systems, especially specific-purpose architectures. This manuscript categorizes and compares software-based redundancy techniques for general-purpose and specific-purpose processors, such as VLIW (Very Long Instruction Word) and CGRA (Coarse-Grained Reconfigurable Architectures).
Optimal Temperature Regulation of Integrated Circuits with Peltier Heat Pumps
Authors: De Mey Gilbert , Kos Andrzej , Górecki Krzysztof
Published: February 2022

A thermal network will be presented to model a multi-layer structure consisting of a semiconductor structure, integrated Peltier heat pump and a cooling fin. A criterion will be set up to determine the optimal Peltier current to minimise the chip temperature using the power dissipation as the control parameter. Compared with classical methods, the proposed solution does not show any time delays in response to power changes and is not sensitive to the position of chip temperature sensors. It does not generate chip temperature oscillations. The idea can be applied in each integrated circuit cooled with Peltier heat pumps, e.g., power devices, high-performance processors, high-frequency integrated circuits, etc. The authors present a simple mathematical formula that can be easily implemented in the software of a processor being cooled. As a consequence, the device is able to operate with maximum efficiency assuming required reliability. Theoretical considerations are illustrated by some results of computations. The paper is addressed to designers involved in the creation of devices dissipating a significant amount of heat energy.
Possibility to Use Professional Bicycle Computers for the Scientific Evaluation of Electric Bikes: Velocity, Cadence and Power Data
Authors: Matyja Tomasz , Kubik Andrzej , Stanik Zbigniew
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to check whether the data recorded by a bicycle computer paired with typical measurement sensors can be useful for a scientific evaluation of the cyclist–bicycle anthropotechnical system, including electric bicycles. The problem arose when the authors searched for methods to assess the energy efficiency of electric bicycles and intelligent power management systems provided by the assistance system, in accordance with the current needs of the bicycle user. This can be of great importance in the efficient use of electric bicycles and their batteries, in the event that they are rented in public access systems. This article focuses primarily on data on bicycle speed, calculated by the GPS module or obtained from speed sensors, as well as data from the cadence sensor, power measurement, pedaling technique and heart rate. An attempt was made to evaluate the correctness and consistency of the data recorded by the computer through various types of comparatives analyses. The conducted research used data recorded when traveling the same route with various bikes, including electric ones, with and without assistance. This is the second part of the research. The first part focusing on data obtained by a computer from a GPS system and a barometric altimeter was published in an earlier article. In both parts, the authors presented some advantages and disadvantages of using bicycle computers as tools for measuring and acquiring data. In general, it seems that the existing technology used by bicycle computers and the measurement sensors that cooperate with it can be used in the development of a system that optimizes energy consumption.
Incorporating Landscape Dynamics in Small-Scale Hydropower Site Location Using a GIS and Spatial Analysis Tool: The Case of Bohol, Central Philippines
Authors: Torrefranca Imelida , Otadoy Roland Emerito , Tongco Alejandro
Published: February 2022

Hydropower depends on the elevation head and water flow of a river. However, other factors must be considered, such as the risk associated with surface processes and environmental factors. The study aims to analyze a landscape’s dynamics and locate potential sites for small-scale hydropower systems (<10 MW) using a geographic information system, the curve number method, and the TopoToolbox with a digital elevation model and available spatial datasets. Across Bohol Island in the central Philippines, the study found 94 potential sites with hydraulic heads ranging from 20–62.4 m, river discharges between 0.02 to 9.71 m3/s, and a total hydropower capacity of 13.595 MW. The river profile analysis classified the sites to five levels of risk to geo-hazards, with three-fourths of the sites being at ‘high’ to ‘very high’ risk levels while more than 50% of the total power can be generated in ‘low’ risk areas. Land-use and population constraints reduced the sites to 25 and the hydropower capacity by 60%. Although limited to the table assessment phase of hydropower development, the study showed the potential of small-scale hydropower systems in the study area, their spatial distribution, and the risk associated with each site. The study results provided data-limited resource managers’ and energy planners’ insights in targeting potential locations and minimizing field investigation costs and time.
Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Model Extension for High-Frequency Signal Injection-Based Sensorless Magnet Polarity Detection
Authors: Szalay István , Fodor Dénes , Enisz Krisztián , Medve Hunor
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a novel extended permanent magnet synchronous motor model is presented that incorporates a quadratic flux-current function to represent the polarity-dependent saliency. The proposed model enables the design of sensorless polarity detection algorithms required by the initial position detection of permanent magnet synchronous motors. The novelty of the model is that it integrates the polarity-dependent saliency into the traditional machine model and introduces a new machine parameter, the polarity-dependent saliency coefficient, to specify the Hessian matrix of the flux-current function. A measurement method is presented for determination of the elements of the Hessian and the polarity-dependent saliency coefficient. The solution of the model is given for high-frequency sinusoidal pulsating voltage injection. Experimental results show that the proposed extended model accurately predicts the amplitudes and phases of the second harmonics of the motor currents, which are the carriers of the polarity-dependent information. This information enables a current measurement-based polarity detection algorithm using the phase difference between the fundamental and second harmonic of the apparent d-axis current. Both the presented measurement data and the proposed model show that injection in the d-direction is optimal for polarity detection.
Modelling of Energy Storage System from Photoelectric Conversion in a Phase Change Battery
Authors: Karbowniczak Anna , Latała Hubert , Nęcka Krzysztof , Kurpaska Sławomir , Książek Leszek
Published: February 2022

The essence of the research was to model the actual energy storage system obtained from photoelectric conversion in a phase change accumulator operating in a foil tunnel. The scope of the work covered the construction of four partial models, i.e., electricity yield from solar radiation conversion for three types of photovoltaic cells (mono- and polycrystalline and CIGS), energy storage in a PCM battery, heat losses in a PCM battery and energy collection from photoelectric conversion in PCM battery. Their construction was based on modelling methods selected on the basis of literature review and previous analyses, i.e., artificial neural networks (ANN), random forest (RF), enhanced regression trees (BRT), MARSplines (MARS), standard multiple regression (SMR), standard C&RT regression trees (CRT), exhaustive CHAID for regression (CHAID). Based on the analysis of the error values (APE, MAPE, ΔESRt), the best quality models were selected and used in the further part of the work. Based on the developed models, a simulation of the influence of the size of the photovoltaic power plant and the type of cells on the process of storing energy from photoelectric conversion in a PCM battery was carried out. For the battery under study, a PV power output of 9 kWp for mono and polycrystalline panels and 13 kWp for CIGS panels is recommended for reasons of energy storage efficiency. The obtained results made it possible to develop a model determining the amount of energy stored in a phase change battery depending on the power of a photovoltaic power plant and variable solar conditions. In order to store the greatest amount of energy, we should choose a source with a capacity to produce at least 70 kWh of electricity per day. In the final stage of the work, the indicators of solar radiation energy storage in the tested phase change accumulator were determined. For the battery tested, the solar energy storage efficiency can reach 12–13% for mono and polycrystalline panels and less than 7% for CIGS panels.
Structural Optimization of Self-Supporting Rectangular Converging-Diverging Tube Heat Exchanger
Authors: Jiao Feng , Wang Ming , Hu Meilin , He Yongqing
Published: February 2022

A three-dimensional numerical investigation of turbulent heat transfer and fluid flow characteristics of the new heat exchanger and self-support of a rectangular converging-diverging (SS-RCD) tube bundle heat exchanger with different inserts was performed. The values of the Reynolds number varied from 27,900 to 41,900. The baseline case (without an insert) was compared with two enhanced configurations: one circular hole in the baffle plate (one-circle case) and a rectangular hole in the baffle plate (one-rectangle case). Compared with the baseline case, the airside Nusselt number (Nu) of the enhanced cases improved by 39.6~48.0% and 36.2~40.2% and had an associated friction factor (f) penalty increase of 53.9–66.7% and 60.7–77.8%, respectively. The baseline case was compared with three enhanced configurations: one-circle case, two-circle case, and three-circle case baffle plate. Compared with the baseline case, Nu of the enhanced cases improved by 39.6–48.0%, 36.2–45.4%, and 35.0–44.2%, with f penalty increases of 53.9–66.7%, 44.9–60.0%, and 43.8–60.0%, respectively. The overall performance was conducted by heat transfer enhancement factor (η). It was found that the one circle case obtained the best overall performance. The numerical results were analyzed from the viewpoint of the field synergy principle. It was found that the reduction in the average intersection angle between the velocity vector and the temperature gradient (θ) was one of the essential factors influencing heat transfer performance.
Study on Inhibition Characteristics of Composite Structure with High-Temperature Heat Pipe and Metal Foam on Gas Explosion
Authors: Gui Xiaohong , Xue Haiteng , Zhu Junwei , Zhan Xingrui , Zhao Fupeng
Published: February 2022

The hazards caused by gas explosion are mainly due to high temperatures and shock waves. It is of great practical significance to explore a device that can restrain these two hazards at the same time. Through the establishment of the gas explosion calculation model, a numerical analysis of the flame propagation in the three types of pipelines, including the empty pipe, the single metal foam pipe, and the high-temperature heat pipe metal foam composite structure, was carried out. The numerical results are compared with the relevant experimental results. The accuracy, rationality, and accuracy of the calculation model is verified. The research results show that that the gas explosion flame propagation develops fastest and accelerates in the empty pipe, followed by a single metal foam pipe. The gas explosion flame in the pipe with the high-temperature heat pipe metal foam composite structure develops the slowest. The composite structure composed of the high-temperature heat pipe and metal foam is an obvious choice to attenuate the temperature and overpressure of gas explosion. The high-temperature heat pipe can rapidly transmit heat in the form of phase change, and metal foam can effectively reduce the explosion pressure wave. The composite structure with the high-temperature heat pipe, and metal foam, destroys the coupling between flame and pressure wave, which acts as a barrier to explosion. It can effectively reduce the energy of flammable and explosive gas in the rear part of the pipeline and restrain the occurrence of the two explosions. The research results provide a scientific basis for the technical application of new, effective anti-explosion devices in coal mines.
Assessment of the Electricity System Transition towards High Share of Renewable Energy Sources in South Asian Countries
Authors: Rana Aqsa , Gróf Gyula
Published: February 2022

The progressive use of renewable energy sources to ensure a continuous and abundant energy supply is the significant target towards a sustainable and secure energy system. Previously, the countries that had relied on fossil fuel as a dominating energy source are now endorsing energy system transition towards renewable energy sources. In this study, a comparative assessment of the energy problems of South Asian countries is summarized. Nevertheless, there are many similarities and differences in the electricity supply system of these countries. Long-term planning for renewable energy development is suggested for a diverse population and dispersed geographical location considering all the significant challenges. However, appropriate schemes are imperative for integrating significant renewable energy sources. This study introduces a foresight plan of the electricity model according to the demand and supply balance for extensive technical analysis. The EnergyPLAN modeling tool was employed to work out a more ambitious VRE integration scenario than the official plans. The reference model was validated according to legitimate and authentic data, and then, the technically most feasible renewable energy-based alternate scenario was built. The additional grid integration cost of variable renewable energy was quantitatively investigated for comprehensive power system modeling for a real-time economic analysis. The results may be adapted and support developing more sustainable power generation serving 1787 million in South Asian countries.
Improvement of the Iraqi Super Grid Performance Using HVDC/HVAC Links by the Integration of Large-Scale Renewable Energy Sources
Authors: Hussein Israa Ismael , Essallah Sirine , Khedher Adel
Published: February 2022

The increasing use of renewable energy sources (RES) and their integration into transmission systems requires extensive studies to get more benefits from these sources. Stability analysis is one of the most crucial issues in these systems, and therefore needs to be studied in depth. In this paper, an analytical study was conducted for the stability assessment of the Iraqi super grid after adding a solar power plant with a capacity of 1000 MW using both HVAC and HVDC links for comparison purposes. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the best way to integrate RES into the power grid while improving its performance. The system’s stability was evaluated for two types of faults: line and bus disturbances. The strength of the grid and its ability to absorb the newly added energy was also studied. The simulations were performed with the PSS/E software using the Newton-Raphson method for a 500 km transmission line length. The results showed that the HVDC link outperforms the HVAC link in improving the overall performance of the power system.
Electrical Energy Storage Sizing and Space Requirements for Sub-Daily Autonomy in Residential Buildings
Authors: Chatzivasileiadi Aikaterini , Ampatzi Eleni , Knight Ian Paul
Published: February 2022

This paper studies the architectural implications, in terms of size and space requirements, of battery technologies in a built environment using renewable energy and energy storage technologies. These aspects will be of particular interest as the world transitions to a low carbon future. This paper is the first to focus on the physical size of storage systems required to provide particular storage characteristics. The research used a quantitative case study methodology and focused on the investigation of nine battery technologies based on potential technology and energy consumption scenarios in 2030. Different residential building scales at a local distribution scale are explored considering sub-daily autonomy periods. Four case studies in a 2030 scenario are presented. For each case study, the nominal capacity, spatial requirements and costs are assessed for each technology. A schematic characterisation of the technologies was derived considering their suitability across these aspects as well as their applicability at different scales. The study showed that the architectural implications of the spatial and structural requirements are significant in some cases and negligible in others, with Li-ion and Zn-air technologies having minimal space requirements.
Water Energy Food Nexus Analysis and Management Tools: A Review
Authors: Borge-Diez David , García-Moya Francisco José , Rosales-Asensio Enrique
Published: February 2022

In order to eradicate water–energy–food poverty, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) proposed milestones to overcome the feeding problem. The development of water–energy–food (WEF) nexus management tools, and approaches has increased during last years. The aim of this research is to review WEF nexus management methods, tools, and examples to identify gaps, goals, or future development that arise when modelling goods management issues for designing a sustainable development framework. It is also presented the food–biofuel competition for resources problem focusing in threatened systems. In addition to the resource trade-off quantification issue, it proposed an analysis for WEF systems management from economic, environmental, and practical points of view with the aim of identifying results, challenges, gaps, or assumptions for nexus. The renewable energy highlights as an enabler for sustainable development.
Fatigue Strength Analysis of a Prototype Francis Turbine in a Multilevel Lifetime Assessment Procedure Part I: Background, Theory and Assessment Procedure Development
Authors: Doujak Eduard , Stadler Simon , Fillinger Gerald , Haller Franz , Maier Michael , Nocker Armin , Gaßner Johannes , Unterluggauer Julian
Published: February 2022

Electricity generation is becoming increasingly flexible in Europe these days. Due to the integration of new renewable energy sources like wind and photovoltaic, other conventional resources, such as hydropower, operate within a brought range around their best efficiency point, thus leading to higher dynamical loads at the water-bearing parts, especially at the runner and the guide vanes (background). By scrutinizing the literature of the past years, one could summarize the outcome in that way, that research projects focused either on model measurements with higher visual accessibility or, less often, on prototype measurements in existing power plants. Today prototype measurements are performed, if possible, to eliminate scaling effects. Moreover, increasing computing power allows prototype simulations to be carried out within a reasonable time. At the acknowledged research projects, prototype and model measurements and numerical simulations have been performed to identify the main gaps in Francis turbines’ lifetime assessment (methods). One special outcome of these investigations was the impracticality of numerical simulations and calculation time, respectively, of start and stop events. Therefore, a prototype measurement with focus at this operating point should be performed to provide more data and an insight into the unit’s behavior. The future goal is a comprehensive machine unit lifetime assessment of the water-bearing parts in a Francis turbine machine set (results). This complex task needs several steps, beginning from measurements through simulations towards data processing. A particular challenge is posed, when the assessment methods are applied to old machines.
Effective Thermal Conductivity and Borehole Thermal Resistance in Selected Borehole Heat Exchangers for the Same Geology
Authors: Sliwa Tomasz , Leśniak Patryk , Sapińska-Śliwa Aneta , Rosen Marc A.
Published: February 2022

Investigating the constructions of borehole heat exchangers with high efficiency (unit heat transfer between the heat carrier and ground) is important. One of the means to improve efficiency is the use of the most efficient construction of the borehole heat exchanger. The paper describes research on borehole heat exchangers’ thermal efficiency, which is mainly characterized by parameters obtained from a thermal response test: effective thermal conductivity and borehole thermal resistivity. The borehole heat exchangers of the Laboratory of Geoenergetics in Poland were studied. Based on thermal response test interpretation and empirical equations, one of which is proprietary, the heat transfer is calculated independent of the duration of the thermal response test. Other conditions for using borehole heat exchangers in downtowns are discussed. The research aims to determine the best borehole heat exchanger design from five basic possibilities studied. A lack of unequivocal statements regarding this matter in the literature was observed. The influence of the interpretation method on the research results is determined. A single U-tube system filled with gravel is shown to be the most advantageous design by a very small margin. The applied interpretation methods, however, confirm the hitherto ambiguity in the selection of the best construction. The maximum heat carrier temperature at the end of thermal response tests was 32 °C for a geological profile mostly made up of clay (low thermal conductivity) and 23 °C for Carpathian flysch (sandstones and shales, with a higher value of conductivity).
Environment Friendly Energy Cooperation in Neighboring Buildings: A Transformed Linearization Approach
Authors: Ur Rehman Habib , Haider Sajjad Ali , Naqvi Syed Rameez , Naeem Muhammad , Kwak Kyung-Sup , Islam S. M. Riazul
Published: February 2022

Energy consumption in residential, commercial and industrial buildings is one of the major contributors to global warming. Due to the increase in the latter, and growing global energy crisis, more attention is being paid to renewable energy resources (RES). The use of innovative concepts in existing buildings is gaining popularity to provide reduction in energy requirements for electricity, heating and cooling. In this paper, an electricity, heating and cooling cooperation mechanism among neighboring buildings with RES is proposed. It relies on adjusting the RES tariff with a mutual agreement between the neighboring buildings, with an aim to minimize the operational costs. For this purpose, a mathematical model is developed for joint energy cooperation, where surplus energy in one of the buildings is shared with others, thereby reducing dependency on the grid. The optimization structure of the environment friendly energy cooperation is nonlinear, which is linearized using the McCormick envelopes. A scenario for the city of Islamabad, Pakistan, is considered by utilizing its environmental data obtained from public domain websites. The simulation results show more than twenty percent energy cost savings with the proposed cooperation model.
Temporal Sensory Profiles of Regular and Sodium-Reduced Foods Elicited by Temporal Dominance of Sensations (TDS) and Temporal Check-All-That-Apply (TCATA)
Authors: Nguyen Ha , Wismer Wendy V.
Published: February 2022

Temporal sensory methods can be used to highlight the impact of sodium reduction on the dynamic sensory profile of foods targeted for sodium reduction. Study aims were to compare the temporal sensory attribute profiles of regular and sodium-reduced food products elicited by TDS and TCATA, over single and multiple oral intakes. A total of 20 semi-trained participants evaluated commercially available regular and sodium-reduced canned corn, cooked ham (single intakes), potato chips and cream of mushroom soup (5 intakes) using both TDS and TCATA. Regular and sodium-reduced products differed in not only salty but also other sensory attributes, noticeably dry for chips, sweet for corn, bitter and metallic for ham, thick, creamy, sweet, and starchy for soup. TDS and TCATA provided comparable information for the key sensory attributes characterizing and differentiating the regular and sodium-reduced products. TDS profiled significant differences between samples for a larger number of attributes than TCATA, while TCATA profiles were more consistent across intakes. Multiple intakes changed the duration of attribute dominance but not the number of significantly dominant attributes in TDS profiles. The current findings provide insight for applications of temporal profiling to other food products and development of sodium-reduced foods with attribute profiles acceptable to consumers.
Effect and Mechanism of Acid-Induced Soy Protein Isolate Gels as Influenced by Cellulose Nanocrystals and Microcrystalline Cellulose
Authors: Jin Xueqi , Qu Ruijing , Wang Yong , Li Dong , Wang Lijun
Published: February 2022

The effects of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) on the gel properties and microstructure of glucono-δ-lactone-induced soy protein isolate (SPI) gels were investigated. The water-holding capacity, gel strength, and viscoelastic modulus of CNC–SPI gels were positively associated with CNC concentration from 0 to 0.75% (w/v). In contrast, MCC–SPI gels exhibited decreased water-holding capacity, gel strength, and viscoelastic modulus. All composite gels displayed high frequency dependence and the typical type I (strain thinning) network behavior. Changes in viscoelasticity under large strain were correlated with differences in the microstructure of SPI composite gels. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) showed that CNC were more evenly and steadily distributed in the protein matrix and formed a compact network structure. In contrast, MCC–SPI gels exhibited a discontinued and rough gel network with some large aggregates and pores, in which MCC was randomly entrapped. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and molecular forces results revealed that no new chemical bonds were formed in the gelation process and that the disulfide bond was of crucial importance in the gel system. With the addition of CNC, electrostatic interactions, hydrophobic interactions, and hydrogen bonds in the SPI gel network were significantly strengthened. However, the incorporation of MCC might obstruct the connection of the protein network. It is concluded that both cellulose type and concentration affect gelling properties.
Essential Oils and Their Major Components: An Updated Review on Antimicrobial Activities, Mechanism of Action and Their Potential Application in the Food Industry
Authors: Angane Manasweeta , Swift Simon , Huang Kang , Butts Christine A. , Quek Siew Young
Published: February 2022

A novel alternative to synthetic preservatives is the use of natural products such as essential oil (EO) as a natural food-grade preservative. EOs are Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS), so they could be considered an alternative way to increase the shelf-life of highly perishable food products by impeding the proliferation of food-borne pathogens. The mounting interest within the food industry and consumer preference for “natural” and “safe” products means that scientific evidence on plant-derived essential oils (EOs) needs to be examined in-depth, including the underlying mechanisms of action. Understanding the mechanism of action that individual components of EO exert on the cell is imperative to design strategies to eradicate food-borne pathogens. Results from published works showed that most EOs are more active against Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative bacteria due to the difference in the cell wall structure. In addition, the application of EOs at a commercial scale has been minimal, as their flavour and odour could be imparted to food. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the research carried out on EOs, emphasizing the antibacterial activity of fruit peel EOs, and the antibacterial mechanism of action of the individual components of EOs. A brief outline of recent contributions of EOs in the food matrix is highlighted. The findings from the literature have been encouraging, and further research is recommended to develop strategies for the application of EO at an industrial scale.
Soft Stretchable Conductive Carboxymethylcellulose Hydrogels for Wearable Sensors
Authors: Park Kyuha , Choi Heewon , Kang Kyumin , Shin Mikyung , Son Donghee
Published: February 2022

Hydrogels that have a capability to provide mechanical modulus matching between time-dynamic curvilinear tissues and bioelectronic devices have been considered tissue-interfacing ionic materials for stably sensing physiological signals and delivering feedback actuation in skin-inspired healthcare systems. These functionalities are totally different from those of elastomers with low ionic conductivity and higher stiffness. Despite such remarkable progress, their low conductivity remains limited in transporting electrical charges to internal or external terminals without undesired information loss, potentially leading to an unstable biotic–abiotic interfaces in the wearable electronics. Here, we report a soft stretchable conductive hydrogel composite consisting of alginate, carboxymethyl cellulose, polyacrylamide, and silver flakes. This composite was fabricated via sol–gel transition. In particular, the phase stability and low dynamic modulus rates of the conductive hydrogel were confirmed through an oscillatory rheological characterization. In addition, our conductive hydrogel showed maximal tensile strain (≈400%), a low deformations of cyclic loading (over 100 times), low resistance (≈8.4 Ω), and a high gauge factor (≈241). These stable electrical and mechanical properties allowed our composite hydrogel to fully support the operation of a light-emitting diode demonstration under mechanical deformation. Based on such durable performance, we successfully measured the electromyogram signals without electrical malfunction even in various motions.
Thermosensitive Chitosan-Containing Hydrogels: Their Formation, Properties, Antibacterial Activity, and Veterinary Usage
Authors: Gegel Natalia O. , Shipovskaya Anna B. , Khaptsev Zaur Yu. , Radionov Roman V. , Belyaeva Anastasia A. , Kharlamov Vitaly N.
Published: February 2022

Mixtures of aqueous solutions of chitosan hydrochloride (CS·HCl, 1–4 wt.%) and Pluronic F-127 (Pl F-127, 25 wt.%) were studied using vibrational and rotational viscometry; the optimal aminopolysaccharide concentration (3 wt.%) and the CS·HCl:Pl F-127 ratio (30:70) to obtain a thermosensitive hydrogel were found. It was shown that at 4 °C, such mixed compositions were viscous liquids, while at 37 °C for 1–2 min, they undergo a thermally reversible transition to a shape-stable hydrogel with a developed level of structure formation, satisfactory viscosity and high mucoadhesive parameters (maximum pull-off force Fmax = 1.5 kN/m2; work of adhesion W = 66.6 × 10−3 J). Adding D-ascorbic acid to the hydrogel led to orientational ordering of the supramolecular structure of the mixed system and significantly improved mucoadhesion (Fmax = 4.1 kN/m2, W = 145.1 × 10−3 J). A microbiological study revealed the high antibacterial activity of the hydrogel against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial strains. The treatment of mixed bacterial infection in cows demonstrated the possibility of the in situ formation of a viscoelastic gel and revealed its high therapeutic effect. It has been suggested that our thermosensitive mucoadhesive CS·HCl:Pl F-127 hydrogels could be considered as independent veterinary drugs and pharmaceuticals.
Scaffolds for Cultured Meat on the Basis of Polysaccharide Hydrogels Enriched with Plant-Based Proteins
Authors: Wollschlaeger Jannis O. , Maatz Robin , Albrecht Franziska B. , Klatt Annemarie , Heine Simon , Blaeser Andreas , Kluger Petra J.
Published: February 2022

The world population is growing and alternative ways of satisfying the increasing demand for meat are being explored, such as using animal cells for the fabrication of cultured meat. Edible biomaterials are required as supporting structures. Hence, we chose agarose, gellan and a xanthan-locust bean gum blend (XLB) as support materials with pea and soy protein additives and analyzed them regarding material properties and biocompatibility. We successfully built stable hydrogels containing up to 1% pea or soy protein. Higher amounts of protein resulted in poor handling properties and unstable gels. The gelation temperature range for agarose and gellan blends is between 23–30 °C, but for XLB blends it is above 55 °C. A change in viscosity and a decrease in the swelling behavior was observed in the polysaccharide-protein gels compared to the pure polysaccharide gels. None of the leachates of the investigated materials had cytotoxic effects on the myoblast cell line C2C12. All polysaccharide-protein blends evaluated turned out as potential candidates for cultured meat. For cell-laden gels, the gellan blends were the most suitable in terms of processing and uniform distribution of cells, followed by agarose blends, whereas no stable cell-laden gels could be formed with XLB blends.
Association of Major Chronic Noncommunicable Diseases and Life Expectancy in China, 2019
Authors: Sun Liang , Zhou Yabing , Zhang Mengge , Li Chuancang , Qu Mengbing , Cai Qian , Meng Jingjing , Fan Haohao , Zhao Yang , Hu Dongsheng
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to illustrate the association of four major chronic noncommunicable diseases (cardiovascular diseases, cancer, respiratory diseases, and diabetes) with life expectancy (LE) of Chinese residents in 2019 and to provide an evidence base for the scientific prevention and treatment of chronic diseases in China. The abbreviated life and cause-eliminated life tables were compiled according to the Jiang Qing Lang method recommended by WHO (World Health Organization) to calculate LE and cause-eliminated life expectancy (CELE) in 2019. The disease that had the greatest association with the LE of Chinese residents was cardiovascular disease (CVD), with the LE increasing by 8.13 years after removing CVD deaths. This was followed by cancer (2.68 years), respiratory diseases (0.88 years), and diabetes (0.24 years). The four major chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) were the main diseases affecting the health of Chinese residents. CVD should be prevented and treated as the key disease among the chronic diseases, while women and rural people should be the major focus of health knowledge promotion. All residents should be encouraged to develop a good understanding of self-protection and of how to achieve a healthy lifestyle in order to reduce the occurrence of death and to improve their quality of life and health in general.