bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization and Analysis of Extensile Fluidic Artificial Muscles
Authors: Garbulinski Jacek , Balasankula Sai C. , Wereley Norman M.
Published: January 2021

Extensile fluidic artificial muscles (EFAMs) are soft actuators known for their large ranges of extension, low weight, and blocked forces comparable to those of pneumatic cylinders. EFAMs have yet to be studied in a way that thoroughly focuses on their manufacturing, experimental characterization, and modeling. A fabrication method was developed for production of two EFAMs. The quasi-static axial force response of EFAMs to varying displacement was measured by testing two specimens under isobaric conditions over a pressure range of 103.4–517.1 kPa (15–75 psi) with 103.4 kPa (15 psi) increments. The muscles were characterized by a blocked force of 280 N and a maximum stroke of 98% at 517.1 kPa (75 psi). A force-balance model was used to analyze EFAM response. Prior work employing the force-balance approach used hyper-elastic constitutive models based on polynomial expressions. In this study, these models are validated for EFAMs, and new constitutive models are proposed that better represent the measured stress values of rubber as a function of strain. These constitutive models are compared in terms of accuracy when estimating pressure-dependent stress–strain relationships of the bladder material. The analysis demonstrates that the new hyper-elastic stress models have an error 5% smaller than models previously employed for EFAMs for the same number of coefficients. Finally, the analysis suggests that the new stress functions have smaller errors than the polynomial stress model with the same number of coefficients, guarantee material stability, and are more conservative about the stress values for strains outside of the testing range.
Non-Clinical Factors Determining the Prescription of Antibiotics by Veterinarians: A Systematic Review
Authors: Servia-Dopazo Miguel , Taracido-Trunk Margarita , Figueiras Adolfo
Published: January 2021

The misuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and plants is related to the spread of resistant antibiotic strains among humans and animals. In this paper, we carry out a bibliographic search of Medline, Web of Knowledge, and Cab Abstracts with the main objective of ascertaining the available evidence on non-clinical factors and attitudes that could influence the prescription of antibiotics by veterinarians. A total of 34 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Whereas, veterinary health professionals’ prescribing habits did not appear to be influenced by their socio-demographic characteristics, they were influenced by different attitudes, such as fear (identified in 19 out of 34 studies), self-confidence (19/34), business factors (19/34), and by complacency (16/34). Certain owner-related factors, such as lack of awareness (16/34) and demand for antibiotics (12/34), were also important, as were concurrent factors, ranging from a lack of appropriate regulations (10/34) to the expense and delays involved in performing culture and sensitivity tests (10/34) and inadequate farm hygiene (8/34). Our results appear to indicate that the non-clinical factors are potentially modifiable. This may be useful for designing interventions targeted at improving antibiotic use in animals, as part of an overall strategy to reduce the global spread of multi-resistant strains.
Key Parameters on the Antibacterial Activity of Silver Camphor Complexes
Authors: Costa Joana , Sousa Sílvia , Galvão Adelino , Mata J. , Leitão Jorge , Carvalho M.
Published: January 2021

Nine new complexes with camphor imine or camphor sulfonimine ligands were synthesized and analytically and spectroscopically characterized, aiming to identify the key parameters that drive the antibacterial activity of the complexes with metal cores and imine substituents with distinct electronic and steric characteristics. The antimicrobial activity of all complexes was evaluated by determining their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) against the Gram-negative Escherichia coli ATCC25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa 477, and Burkholderia contaminans IST408, and the Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus Newman. Camphor imine complexes based on the hydroxyl silver center ({Ag(OH)}) typically perform better than those based on the nitrate silver center ({Ag(NO3)}), while ligands prone to establish hydrogen bonding facilitate interactions with the bacterial cell surface structures. A different trend is observed for the silver camphor sulfonimine complexes that are almost non-sensitive to the nature of the metal cores {Ag(OH)} or {Ag(NO3)} and display low sensitivity to the Y substituent. The antibacterial activities of the Ag(I) camphor sulfonimine complexes are higher than those of the camphor imine analogues. All the complexes display higher activity towards Gram-negative strains than towards the Gram-positive strain.
Long-Term Impact of an Educational Antimicrobial Stewardship Program on Management of Patients with Hematological Diseases
Authors: Guisado-Gil Ana Belén , Aguilar-Guisado Manuela , Peñalva Germán , Lepe José Antonio , Espigado Ildefonso , Rodríguez-Arbolí Eduardo , González-Campos José , Rodríguez-Torres Nancy , Montero-Cuadrado María Isabel , Falantes-González José Francisco , Reguera-Ortega Juan Luis , Gil-Navarro María Victoria , Molina José , Pérez-Simón José-Antonio , Cisneros José Miguel
Published: January 2021

Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) in hematological patients are especially relevant. However, information about ASPs in this population is scarce. For 11 years, we quarterly assessed antimicrobial consumption and incidence and death rates of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bloodstream infections (BSI) in the hematology Department. Healthcare activity indicators were also monitored yearly. We performed an interrupted time-series analysis. Antimicrobials showed a sustained reduction with a relative effect of −62.3% (95% CI −84.5 to −40.1) nine years after the inception of the ASP, being especially relevant for antifungals (relative effect −80.4%, −90.9 to −69.9), quinolones (relative effect −85.0%, −102.0 to −68.1), and carbapenems (relative effect −68.8%, −126.0 to −10.6). Incidence density of MDR BSI remained low and stable (mean 1.10 vs. 0.82 episodes per 1000 occupied bed days for the pre-intervention and the ASP period, respectively) with a quarterly percentage of change of −0.3% (95% CI −2.0 to 1.4). Early and late mortality of MDR BSI presented a steady trend (quarterly percentage of change −0.7%, 95% CI −1.7 to 0.3 and −0.6%, 95% CI −1.5 to 0.3, respectively). Volume and complexity of healthcare activity increased over the years. The ASP effectively achieved long-term reductions in antimicrobial consumption and improvements in the prescription profile, without increasing the mortality of MDR BSI.
Secure and Efficient Authentication Scheme in IoT Environments
Authors: Thakare Abhijeet , Kim Young-Gab
Published: January 2021

Optimization of resource consumption and decreasing the response time of authentication requests is an immense urgent requirement for supporting the scalability of resources in IoT environments. The existing research attempts to design lightweight authentication protocols to address these issues. However, the schemes proposed in the literature are lacking in the creation of a lightweight (i.e., low computing, communication, and storage cost) and secure architecture. IoT devices in existing approaches consume high electricity and computing power, despite the fact that IoT devices have limited power and computing capabilities. Furthermore, the existing approaches lead to an increase in the burden on storage memory and also create heavy traffic on a communication channel, increasing the response time of device authentication requests. To overcome these limitations, we propose a novel lightweight and secure architecture that uses crypto-modules, which optimize the usage of one-way hash functions, elliptic-curve cryptography, and an exclusive-or operation. We demonstrate the proposed scheme’s security strength using informal security analysis and verified it by considering the widely used automated validation of internet security protocol application (AVISPA) and the ProVerif tool. The result shows that the proposed scheme is effective against active and passive security attacks and satisfies secure design. Moreover, we calculate the proposed scheme’s working cost by implementing it using a widely accepted standard pairing-based cryptography (PBC) library on embedded devices. The implementation proves that the proposed scheme is lightweight and reduces computation time by 0.933 ms, communication cost by 1408 bits, and storage cost by 384 bits, and removes the existing gaps.
Advanced Optimization Methods and Big Data Applications in Energy Demand Forecast
Authors: Divina Federico , Gómez-Vela Francisco , García-Torres Miguel
Published: January 2021

The use of data collectors in energy systems is growing more and more [...]
Assessment of Dental Arch Reproduction Quality by Using Traditional and Digital Methods
Authors: Wójcik Mateusz , Skaba Dariusz , Skucha-Nowak Małgorzata , Tanasiewicz Marta , Wiench Rafał
Published: January 2021

Background: There exists few scientific reports on the quality of digitally reproduced dental arches, even though digital devices have been used in dentistry for many years. This study assesses the accuracy of the standard dental arch model reproduction using both traditional and digital methods. Methods: The quality of the full upper dental arch standard model reproduction by physical models obtained through traditional and digital methods was compared: gypsum models (SGM) and models printed from data obtained using an intraoral scanner (TPM) (n = 20). All models were scanned with a reference scanner. Comparisons were made using Geomagic Control X program by measuring deviations of the models relative to the standard model and analyzing linear dimensions deviations. Results: The average error of reproduction accuracy of the standard model ranged from 0.0424 ± 0.0102 millimeters (mm) (SGM) to 0.1059 ± 0.0041 mm (TPM). In digital methods, all analyzed linear dimensions were shortened to a statistically significantly degree compared to traditional. The SGM method provided the smallest deviations to a significant degree of linear dimensions from the pattern, and TPM the largest. The intercanine dimension was reproduced with the lowest accuracy, and the intermolar the highest in each method. Conclusions: Traditional methods provided the highest reproduction trueness of the full dental arch and all analyzed linear dimensions. The intercanine dimension was reproduced with the lowest accuracy, and the intermolar the highest in each method, where digital methods shortened all analyzed linear dimensions.
Current Applications of Ultrasound in Fruit and Vegetables Osmotic Dehydration Processes
Authors: Nowacka Małgorzata , Dadan Magdalena , Tylewicz Urszula
Published: January 2021

Ultrasound (US) is a promising technology, which can be used to improve the efficacy of the processes in food technology and the quality of final product. US technique is used, e.g., to support mass and heat transfer processes, such as osmotic dehydration, drying and freezing, as well as extraction, crystallization, emulsification, filtration, etc. Osmotic dehydration (OD) is a well-known process applied in food processing; however, improvements are required due to the long duration of the process. Therefore, many recent studies focus on the development of OD combined with sonication as a pretreatment method and support during the OD process. The article describes the mechanism of the OD process as well as those of US and changes in microstructure caused by sonication. Furthermore, it focuses on current applications of US in fruits and vegetables OD processes, comparison of ultrasound-assisted osmotic dehydration to sonication treatment and synergic effect of US and other innovative technics/treatments in OD (such as innovative osmotic solutions, blanching, pulsed electric field, reduced pressure and edible coatings). Additionally, the physical and functional properties of tissue subjected to ultrasound pretreatment before OD as well as ultrasound-assisted osmotic dehydration are described.
Evaluation of Patients with Hallux Valgus Wearing a 3D-Printed Orthosis during Walking
Authors: Sun Pi-Chang , Shih Shih-Liang , Chen You-Yu , Lin Kuang-Wei , Chen Chen-Shen
Published: January 2021

Hallux valgus (HV) is a foot deformity most commonly found in female and elderly patients. Its symptoms include foot pain, impaired gait patterns, poor balance, and falls in older adults. Recently, various HV orthoses have been introduced in the market; however, they have many shortcomings, such as high costs, unclear therapeutic effects, and effects on push-off of the foot during walking. The present study employs 3D printing technology to develop an HV orthosis and uses motion analysis to investigate the effects of wearing it. This study recruited 12 individuals with HV, who were asked to first perform a static HV measurement without orthosis, followed by a dynamic HV measurement using a Vicon motion analysis system in three trials. The results indicated that wearing the 3D-printed orthosis significantly corrected the HV angle by approximately 11° during static standing and by approximately 9° during dynamic walking. However, no significant difference was observed during use of the orthosis in terms of the ground reaction force. The obtained results demonstrate that the 3D-printed HV orthosis is an effective device for correcting the HV angle during static standing and dynamic walking, especially during the push-off phase of gait.
Distinct Regimes of O3 Response to COVID-19 Lockdown in China
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Liu Cheng , Hu Qihou , Su Wenjing , Yang Xian , Lin Jinan , Zhang Chengxin , Xing Chengzhi , Ji Xiangguang , Tan Wei , Liu Haoran , Gao Meng
Published: January 2021

Restrictions on human activities remarkably reduced emissions of air pollutants in China during the COVID-19 lockdown periods. However, distinct responses of O3 concentrations were observed across China. In the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) and Yangtze River Delta (YRD) regions, O3 concentrations were enhanced by 90.21 and 71.79% from pre-lockdown to lockdown periods in 2020, significantly greater than the equivalent concentrations for the same periods over 2015–2019 (69.99 and 43.62%, p < 0.001). In contrast, a decline was detected (−1.1%) in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region. To better understand the underlying causes for these inconsistent responses across China, we adopted the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) and ordinary linear squares (OLS) methods in this study. Statistical analysis indicated that a sharp decline in nitrogen dioxide (NO2) was the major driver of enhanced O3 in the BTH region as it is a NOx-saturated region. In the YRD region, season-shift induced changes in the temperature/shortwave radiative flux, while lockdown induced declines in NO2, attributable to the rise in O3. In the PRD region, the slight drop in O3 is attributed to the decreased intensity of radiation. The distinct regimes of the O3 response to the COVID-19 lockdown in China offer important insights into different O3 control strategies across China.
Winds in the Lower Cloud Level on the Nightside of Venus from VIRTIS-M (Venus Express) 1.74 μm Images
Authors: Gorinov Dmitry A. , Zasova Ludmila V. , Khatuntsev Igor V. , Patsaeva Marina V. , Turin Alexander V.
Published: January 2021

The horizontal wind velocity vectors at the lower cloud layer were retrieved by tracking the displacement of cloud features using the 1.74 µm images of the full Visible and InfraRed Thermal Imaging Spectrometer (VIRTIS-M) dataset. This layer was found to be in a superrotation mode with a westward mean speed of 60–63 m s−1 in the latitude range of 0–60° S, with a 1–5 m s−1 westward deceleration across the nightside. Meridional motion is significantly weaker, at 0–2 m s−1; it is equatorward at latitudes higher than 20° S, and changes its direction to poleward in the equatorial region with a simultaneous increase of wind speed. It was assumed that higher levels of the atmosphere are traced in the equatorial region and a fragment of the poleward branch of the direct lower cloud Hadley cell is observed. The fragment of the equatorward branch reveals itself in the middle latitudes. A diurnal variation of the meridional wind speed was found, as east of 21 h local time, the direction changes from equatorward to poleward in latitudes lower than 20° S. Significant correlation with surface topography was not found, except for a slight decrease of zonal wind speed, which was connected to the volcanic area of Imdr Regio.
Triaging of Culture Conditions for Enhanced Secondary Metabolite Diversity from Different Bacteria
Authors: Schwarz Jenny , Hubmann Georg , Rosenthal Katrin , Lütz Stephan
Published: January 2021

Over the past decade, the one strain many compounds (OSMAC) approach has been established for the activation of biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), which mainly encode the enzymes of secondary metabolite (SM) biosynthesis pathways. These BGCs were successfully activated by altering various culture conditions, such as aeration rate, temperature, and nutrient composition. Here, we determined the biosynthetic potential of 43 bacteria using the genome mining tool antiSMASH. Based on the number of BGCs, biological safety, availability of deposited cultures, and literature coverage, we selected five promising candidates: Bacillus amyloliquefaciens DSM7, Corallococcus coralloides DSM2259, Pyxidicoccus fallax HKI727, Rhodococcus jostii DSM44719, and Streptomyces griseochromogenes DSM40499. The bacteria were cultivated under a broad range of OSMAC conditions (nutrient-rich media, minimal media, nutrient-limited media, addition of organic solvents, addition of biotic additives, and type of culture vessel) to fully assess the biosynthetic potential. In particular, we investigated so far scarcely applied OSMAC conditions to enhance the diversity of SMs. We detected the four predicted compounds bacillibactin, desferrioxamine B, myxochelin A, and surfactin. In total, 590 novel mass features were detected in a broad range of investigated OSMAC conditions, which outnumber the predicted gene clusters for all investigated bacteria by far. Interestingly, we detected mass features of the bioactive compounds cyclo-(Tyr-Pro) and nocardamin in extracts of DSM7 and DSM2259. Both compounds were so far not reported for these strains, indicating that our broad OSMAC screening approach was successful. Remarkably, the infrequently applied OSMAC conditions in defined medium with and without nutrient limitation were demonstrated to be very effective for BGC activation and for SM discovery.
Epigenetics of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Nikolac Perkovic Matea , Videtic Paska Alja , Konjevod Marcela , Kouter Katarina , Svob Strac Dubravka , Nedic Erjavec Gordana , Pivac Nela
Published: January 2021

There are currently no validated biomarkers which can be used to accurately diagnose Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or to distinguish it from other dementia-causing neuropathologies. Moreover, to date, only symptomatic treatments exist for this progressive neurodegenerative disorder. In the search for new, more reliable biomarkers and potential therapeutic options, epigenetic modifications have emerged as important players in the pathogenesis of AD. The aim of the article was to provide a brief overview of the current knowledge regarding the role of epigenetics (including mitoepigenetics) in AD, and the possibility of applying these advances for future AD therapy. Extensive research has suggested an important role of DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation, histone posttranslational modifications, and non-coding RNA regulation (with the emphasis on microRNAs) in the course and development of AD. Recent studies also indicated mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) as an interesting biomarker of AD, since dysfunctions in the mitochondria and lower mtDNA copy number have been associated with AD pathophysiology. The current evidence suggests that epigenetic changes can be successfully detected, not only in the central nervous system, but also in the cerebrospinal fluid and on the periphery, contributing further to their potential as both biomarkers and therapeutic targets in AD.
Diagnostic Accuracy of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Adult Post-Ganglionic Brachial Plexus Traumatic Injuries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Leigheb Massimiliano , Tricca Stefano , Percivale Ilaria , Licandro Davide , Paladini Andrea , Barini Michela , Guzzardi Giuseppe , Grassi Federico A. , Stecco Alessandro , Carriero Alessandro
Published: January 2021

Background: Traumatic brachial plexus injuries are rare but serious consequences of major traumas. Pre-ganglionic lesions are considered irreparable, while post-ganglionic injuries can be potentially treated if an early diagnosis is available. Pre-surgical diagnosis is important to distinguish low-grade from high-grade lesions and to identify their location. The aim of the review is to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the identification of adult post-ganglionic lesions due to traumatic brachial plexus injuries, compared to intraoperative findings. Methods: Research on the main scientific electronic databases was conducted. Studies of adults with traumatic post-ganglionic brachial plexus injuries were included. The index test was preoperative MRI and the reference standard was surgical exploration. Pooled sensitivity and specificity were calculated. Results: Four studies were included for the systematic review, of which three articles met the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis. Pooled sensitivity and pooled specificity values resulted high. The sensitivity value is associated with a high heterogeneity index of the selected literature. Conclusion: MRI can be considered, despite the limits, the gold standard exam in morphological evaluation of brachial plexus injuries, particularly in the diagnosis of post-ganglionic traumatic injuries.
The Adhesome Network: Key Components Shaping the Tumour Stroma
Authors: Nikolopoulou Pinelopi A. , Koufaki Maria A. , Kostourou Vassiliki
Published: January 2021

Beyond the conventional perception of solid tumours as mere masses of cancer cells, advanced cancer research focuses on the complex contributions of tumour-associated host cells that are known as “tumour microenvironment” (TME). It has been long appreciated that the tumour stroma, composed mainly of blood vessels, cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells, together with the extracellular matrix (ECM), define the tumour architecture and influence cancer cell properties. Besides soluble cues, that mediate the crosstalk between tumour and stroma cells, cell adhesion to ECM arises as a crucial determinant in cancer progression. In this review, we discuss how adhesome, the intracellular protein network formed at cell adhesions, regulate the TME and control malignancy. The role of adhesome extends beyond the physical attachment of cells to ECM and the regulation of cytoskeletal remodelling and acts as a signalling and mechanosensing hub, orchestrating cellular responses that shape the tumour milieu.
Radiosensitizing Pancreatic Cancer with PARP Inhibitor and Gemcitabine: An In Vivo and a Whole-Transcriptome Analysis after Proton or Photon Irradiation
Authors: Waissi Waisse , Nicol Anaïs , Jung Matthieu , Rousseau Marc , Jarnet Delphine , Noel Georges , Burckel Hélène
Published: January 2021

Over the past few years, studies have focused on the development of targeted radiosensitizers such as poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors. We performed an in vivo study and a whole-transcriptome analysis to determine whether PARP inhibition enhanced gemcitabine-based chemoradiosensitization of pancreatic cancer xenografts, combined with either proton or photon irradiation. NMRI mice bearing MIA PaCa-2 xenografts were treated with olaparib and/or gemcitabine and irradiated with 10 Gy photon or proton. First, a significant growth inhibition was obtained after 10 Gy proton irradiation compared to 10 Gy photon irradiation (p = 0.046). Moreover, the combination of olaparib, gemcitabine and proton therapy significantly sensitized tumor xenografts, compared to gemcitabine (p = 0.05), olaparib (p = 0.034) or proton therapy (p < 0.0001) alone or to the association of olaparib, gemcitabine and radiotherapy (p = 0.024). Simultaneously, whole RNA sequencing profiling showed differentially expressed genes implicated in categories such as DNA repair, type I interferon signaling and cell cycle. Moreover, a large amount of lncRNA was dysregulated after proton therapy, gemcitabine and olaparib. This is the first study showing that addition of olaparib to gemcitabine-based chemoradiotherapy improved significantly local control in vivo, especially after proton therapy. RNA sequencing profiling analysis presented dynamic alteration of transcriptome after chemoradiation and identified a classifier of gemcitabine response.
Hierarchically Ordinated Two-Dimensional MoS2 Nanosheets on Three-Dimensional Reduced Graphene Oxide Aerogels as Highly Active and Stable Catalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Choi Hyeonggeun , Lee Suok , Kim Min-Cheol , Park Yeonsu , Jang A-Rang , Ahn Wook , Sohn Jung Inn , Park Jong Bae , Hong John , Lee Young-Woo
Published: January 2021

Hydrogen gas (H2) is being intensively proposed as a next-generation clean energy owing to the depletion of fossil fuels. Electrochemical water splitting is one of the most promising processes for hydrogen production. Furthermore, many efforts focusing on electrochemical water splitting have been made to develop low-cost, electrochemically active, and stable catalysts for efficient hydrogen production. MoS2 has emerged as an attractive material for developing catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Hence, in this study, we design hierarchically ordinated two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 nanosheets on three-dimensional (3D) reduced graphene oxide (rGO) (H-2D/3D-MoS2-rGO) aerogel structures as a new class of electrocatalysts for the HER. We use the one-pot hydrothermal synthesis route for developing high-performance electroactive materials for the HER. The as-prepared H-2D/3D-MoS2-rGO contains a unique 3D hierarchical structure providing large surface areas owing to the 3D porous networks of rGO and more active sites owing to the many edge sites in the MoS2 nanosheets. In addition, the H-2D/3D-MoS2-rGO structure exhibits remarkable electrochemical properties during the HER. It shows a lower overpotential than pure MoS2 and excellent electrochemical stability owing to the large number of active sites (highly exposed edge sites) and high electrical conductivity from the rGO structure.
Weak Interactions in the Structures of Newly Synthesized (–)-Cytisine Amino Acid Derivatives
Authors: Przybył Anna , Grzeskiewicz Anita , Kubicki Maciej
Published: January 2021

Eight new (–)-(N-[(AA)-(N-phtaloyl)]cytisines (where AA is amino acid: glycine, β-alanine, D,L-valine, L-valine, L-isoleucine, L-leucine, D-leucine and D,L-phenyloalanine), were synthesized and fully spectroscopically characterized (NMR, FTIR and MS). For two of these compounds, N-[glycine-(N-phtaloyl)]cytisine and N-[L-isoleucine-(N-phtaloyl)]cytisine, X-ray crystal structures were obtained and used as the basis for an in-depth analysis of intermolecular interactions and packing energies. The structural geometrical data (weak hydrogen bonds, π···π interactions, etc.) were compared with the energies of interactions and the topological characteristics (electron density, Laplacian at the appropriate critical point) based on the atoms-in-molecules theory. The results suggest that there is no straightforward connection between the geometry of point-to-point interactions and the molecule-to-molecule energies. Additionally, the usefulness of the transfer of multipolar parameters in estimating of critical points’ characteristics have been confirmed.
Cost Minimization Analysis of Hypofractionated Radiotherapy
Authors: Yaremko Hannah L. , Locke Gordon E. , Chow Ronald , Lock Michael , Dinniwell Robert , Yaremko Brian P.
Published: January 2021

Early-stage breast cancer patients comprise a large proportion of patients treated with radiotherapy in Canada. Proponents have suggested that five-fraction hypofractionated radiotherapy for these patients would result in significant cost savings. An assessment of this argument is thus warranted. The FAST-Forward and UK FAST clinical trials each demonstrated that their respective hypofractionated regimens provided equivalent outcomes compared with standard regimens. Thus, a cost-minimization analysis was performed to quantify the potential savings associated with these regimens, which were designated as FAST-Forward 1 (26 Gy/5 fractions/1 week) and FAST-Forward 2 (27 Gy/5 fractions/1 week), and UK FAST 1 (28.5 Gy/5 fractions/5 weeks) and UK FAST 2 (30 Gy/5 fractions/5 weeks). A standard regimen of 42.5 Gy/16 fractions/5 weeks was also included. A comprehensive model of radiotherapy costs for a Canadian cancer centre was created. Time, labour costs, and capital costs were calculated for each regimen and applied using established measures. The total costs per patient for the FAST-Forward trials were $851.77 for FAST-Forward 1 and $874.77 for FAST-Forward 2, providing a total savings of $487.99 and $464.99, respectively. Similarly, the total costs per patient for the FAST trials were $979.75 for UK FAST 1 and $1017.70 for UK FAST 2, providing savings of $360.01 and $322.06, respectively. Following the FAST-Forward 1 regimen results in the greatest reduction of infrastructure and human resources costs at 36.42% compared with the standard. Sensitivity analysis shows a maximum per-patient costs savings ranging from $474.60 to $508.53 for the FAST-Forward 1 trial, which translates to an annual savings of $174,700/year locally and $2.06 million/year province-wide, based on a moderate-to-large size department workload. Compared with a standard radiotherapy regimen, all FAST-Forward and UK FAST hypofractionated regimens provide cost savings for the treatment of early-stage breast cancer. The cost savings associated with each of these equivalent regimens can be directly calculated; activities in this model can easily be adjusted to account for cost variations, allowing other centres to calculate cost impacts specific to their own centres.
Is Innovation Redesigning District Heating? A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Knutsson Håkan , Holmén Magnus , Lygnerud Kristina
Published: January 2021

The district heating (DH) industry has been characterized by continuous innovation for several decades, but there is limited knowledge on the characteristics of the sector’s innovation activities, arguably the most important information for understanding how the sector can continue to develop and further support the energy transition of society. We perform a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify the types of innovation, the levels of innovation and the relation between different innovations in the DH sector. A total of 899 articles are analyzed and coded into eight groups: fuel, supply, distribution, transfer, DH system, city system, impact and business. Most of the articles (68%) were identified in the groups: “supply”, “DH system,” and “impact”, with a focus on DH from a system or production perspective and its environmental impact. We find that there is limited research on DH firms” challenges, including management perspectives, such as asset management and customer focus. Despite this potential, we find only a limited number of articles related to innovation. Not much scholarly attention has been given to areas of large cost-saving, especially capital cost.
On the Regression Model for Generalized Normal Distributions
Authors: Alzaatreh Ayman , Aljarrah Mohammad , Almagambetova Ayanna , Zakiyeva Nazgul
Published: January 2021

The traditional linear regression model that assumes normal residuals is applied extensively in engineering and science. However, the normality assumption of the model residuals is often ineffective. This drawback can be overcome by using a generalized normal regression model that assumes a non-normal response. In this paper, we propose regression models based on generalizations of the normal distribution. The proposed regression models can be used effectively in modeling data with a highly skewed response. Furthermore, we study in some details the structural properties of the proposed generalizations of the normal distribution. The maximum likelihood method is used for estimating the parameters of the proposed method. The performance of the maximum likelihood estimators in estimating the distributional parameters is assessed through a small simulation study. Applications to two real datasets are given to illustrate the flexibility and the usefulness of the proposed distributions and their regression models.
A Modified FlowDroid Based on Chi-Square Test of Permissions
Authors: Kang Hongzhaoning , Liu Gang , Wu Zhengping , Tian Yumin , Zhang Lizhi
Published: January 2021

Android devices are currently widely used in many fields, such as automatic control, embedded systems, the Internet of Things and so on. At the same time, Android applications (apps) always use multiple permissions, and permissions can be abused by malicious apps that disclose users’ privacy or breach the secure storage of information. FlowDroid has been extensively studied as a novel and highly precise static taint analysis for Android applications. Aiming at the problem of complex detection and false alarms in FlowDroid, an improved static detection method based on feature permission and risk rating is proposed. Firstly, the Chi-square test is used to extract correlated permissions related to malicious apps, and mutual information is used to cluster the permissions to generate feature permission clusters. Secondly, risk calculation method based on permissions and combinations of permissions are proposed to identify dangerous data flows. Experiments show that this method can significantly improve detection efficiency while maintaining the accuracy of dangerous data flow detection.
Enhancing Music Industry Curriculum with Digital Technologies: A Case Study
Authors: Barneva Reneta P. , Kanev Kamen , Shapiro Stuart B. , Walters Lisa M.
Published: January 2021

Recent years have seen an increase in interest with regard to offering music industry undergraduate programs at institutes of higher learning. Such programs typically cover a mix of courses in both music and business areas. An emerging trend in the music industry is the rising application of digital technologies in all business aspects. This makes it necessary to enhance the curriculum with opportunities that familiarize students with various digital technologies and the possibilities they offer, so graduates are well-prepared for their future careers. This paper presents a case study conducted at the State University of New York—Fredonia. It revealed a need to enhance the school’s Music Industry program, in terms of course content, with information and communication technologies. A proposal of novel courses to enhance music industry student acquisition of technology competencies resulted from the study. Additionally, opportunities for the possible enrichment of existing courses with material on digital technologies applications are provided. This work is aimed not only at music industry educators but also at instructors in other disciplines willing to make their students aware of the latest technological trends.
Deep Geothermal Heating Potential for the Communities of the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin
Authors: Majorowicz Jacek , Grasby Stephen E.
Published: January 2021

We summarize the feasibility of using geothermal energy from the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin (WCSB) to support communities with populations >3000 people, including those in northeastern British Columbia, southwestern part of Northwest Territories (NWT), southern Saskatchewan, and southeastern Manitoba, along with previously studied communities in Alberta. The geothermal energy potential of the WCSB is largely determined by the basin’s geometry; the sediments start at 0 m thickness adjacent to the Canadian shield in the east and thicken to >6 km to the west, and over 3 km in the Williston sub-basin to the south. Direct heat use is most promising in the western and southern parts of the WCSB where sediment thickness exceeds 2–3 km. Geothermal potential is also dependent on the local geothermal gradient. Aquifers suitable for heating systems occur in western-northwestern Alberta, northeastern British Columbia, and southwestern Saskatchewan. Electrical power production is limited to the deepest parts of the WCSB, where aquifers >120 °C and fluid production rates >80 kg/s occur (southwestern Northwest Territories, northwestern Alberta, northeastern British Columbia, and southeastern Saskatchewan. For the western regions with the thickest sediments, the foreland basin east of the Rocky Mountains, estimates indicate that geothermal power up to 2 MWel. (electrical), and up to 10 times higher for heating in MWth. (thermal), are possible.
Strengthening Mechanism of Studs for Embedded-Ring Foundation of Wind Turbine Tower
Authors: Chen Junling , Li Jinwei , Li Qize , Feng Youquan
Published: January 2021

The embedded-ring wind turbine foundations were widely applied in the early development stage of wind power industries because of its properties such as easy installation and adjustment. However, different damages occurred on some embedded-ring wind turbine foundations in recent years. Based on the common damage phenomena of embedded-ring wind turbine foundations, the structural defects and damage mechanisms of embedded-ring wind turbine foundations are analyzed in a gradual way. Cheese head studs are proposed to be welded on the lateral wall of the steel ring to strengthen the connection between the steel ring and the foundation concrete. The foundation pier is elevated 1 m to increase the embedded depth of the steel ring. The circumferential confining pressure is applied on the lateral side of the foundation pier to lead it into a state of pressure. One simplified method is proposed to calculate the contribution of welding studs in this strengthening method. Taking an embedded-ring wind turbine foundation as an example, the numerical analyses for the original foundation and the reinforced one are carried out to compare the stress and strain distribution changes. Based on the numerical results corresponding to the peak and valley value loads, the fatigue life of the concrete and studs are evaluated according to the relevant design codes. The numerical results show that this strengthening method can coordinate the deformation of the embedded steel ring and the foundation concrete by circumferential prestressing and welding studs. The maximum principal stresses of the foundation pier and the fatigue stress range of the concrete around the bottom of the steel ring have been greatly reduced after strengthening. The gaps between the embedded steel ring and the foundation pier are also obviously decreased because of these strengthening measures. The stress concentration phenomena of the concrete around the T-shaped flange have been remarkably improved. The fatigue life can meet the requirements of relevant design codes after strengthening. Therefore, it can be concluded that the safety performance and service life of the embedded-ring foundation can be guaranteed.
Experimental Investigation on Strain Changes during CO2 Adsorption of Raw Coal Sample: Temperature and Effective Stress
Authors: Wang Kai , Fu Qichao , Zhang Xiang , Jia Hengyi
Published: January 2021

Through laboratory simulation experiments, this paper studies the influence of different temperature and stress conditions on strain changes of raw coal samples induced by the CO2 adsorption with tri-axial creep-seepage and adsorption-desorption experimental system. Comparing and analyzing the experimental results, the study shows that: (1) within a certain time, the axial and radial strain of the raw coal sample induced by CO2 adsorption both show a growing trend as the adsorption time increases and the strain of the raw coal sample for CO2 adsorption is obvious anisotropy; (2) at the same point in time, the greater the axial effective stress, the smaller the axial strain increasing rate of the loaded coal sample during CO2 adsorption process and the smaller the value of axial deformation; (3) during the adsorption process, the volume strain of raw coal sample decreases with the increasing of temperature, namely, the adsorption capacity of raw coal sample decreases with the increasing of temperature.
Prospects and Obstacles for Green Hydrogen Production in Russia
Authors: Kopteva Alexandra , Kalimullin Leonid , Tcvetkov Pavel , Soares Amilcar
Published: January 2021

Renewable energy is considered the one of the most promising solutions to meet sustainable development goals in terms of climate change mitigation. Today, we face the problem of further scaling up renewable energy infrastructure, which requires the creation of reliable energy storages, environmentally friendly carriers, like hydrogen, and competitive international markets. These issues provoke the involvement of resource-based countries in the energy transition, which is questionable in terms of economic efficiency, compared to conventional hydrocarbon resources. To shed a light on the possible efficiency of green hydrogen production in such countries, this study is aimed at: (1) comparing key Russian trends of green hydrogen development with global trends, (2) presenting strategic scenarios for the Russian energy sector development, (3) presenting a case study of Russian hydrogen energy project «Dyakov Ust-Srednekanskaya HPP» in Magadan region. We argue that without significant changes in strategic planning and without focus on sustainable solutions support, the further development of Russian power industry will be halted in a conservative scenario with the limited presence of innovative solutions in renewable energy industries. Our case study showed that despite the closeness to Japan hydrogen market, economic efficiency is on the edge of zero, with payback period around 17 years. The decrease in project capacity below 543.6 MW will immediately lead to a negative NPV. The key reason for that is the low average market price of hydrogen ($14/kg), which is only a bit higher than its production cost ($12.5/kg), while transportation requires about $0.96/kg more. Despite the discouraging results, it should be taken into account that such strategic projects are at the edge of energy development. We see them as an opportunity to lead transnational energy trade of green hydrogen, which could be competitive in the medium term, especially with state support.
Watt’s up at Home? Smart Meter Data Analytics from a Consumer-Centric Perspective
Authors: Völker Benjamin , Reinhardt Andreas , Faustine Anthony , Pereira Lucas
Published: January 2021

The key advantage of smart meters over traditional metering devices is their ability to transfer consumption information to remote data processing systems. Besides enabling the automated collection of a customer’s electricity consumption for billing purposes, the data collected by these devices makes the realization of many novel use cases possible. However, the large majority of such services are tailored to improve the power grid’s operation as a whole. For example, forecasts of household energy consumption or photovoltaic production allow for improved power plant generation scheduling. Similarly, the detection of anomalous consumption patterns can indicate electricity theft and serve as a trigger for corresponding investigations. Even though customers can directly influence their electrical energy consumption, the range of use cases to the users’ benefit remains much smaller than those that benefit the grid in general. In this work, we thus review the range of services tailored to the needs of end-customers. By briefly discussing their technological foundations and their potential impact on future developments, we highlight the great potentials of utilizing smart meter data from a user-centric perspective. Several open research challenges in this domain, arising from the shortcomings of state-of-the-art data communication and processing methods, are furthermore given. We expect their investigation to lead to significant advancements in data processing services and ultimately raise the customer experience of operating smart meters.
IEC 61850-Based Centralized Protection against Single Line-To-Ground Faults in Ungrounded Distribution Systems
Authors: Nam Soon-Ryul , Ko Woong-Hie , Key Sopheap , Kang Sang-Hee , Lee Nam-Ho
Published: January 2021

We developed an International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61850-based centralized protection scheme to prevent single line-to-ground (SLG) faults in the feeders and busbars of ungrounded distribution systems. Each feeder intelligent electronic device (IED) measures its zero-sequence current and voltage signals and periodically transmits zero-sequence phasors to a central IED via a Generic Oriented Object Substation Event message. Using the zero-sequence phasors, the central IED detects SLG faults in feeders and busbars. To achieve centralized protection, angle differences between the zero-sequence currents and voltage phasors are exploited, and their calculation compensates for data desynchronization. The feeder IEDs were implemented using the MMS-EASE Lite library, while the transmitted zero-sequence phasors were calculated based on fault signals simulated by Power System Computer Aided Design / Electro-Magnetic Transient Design and Control (PSCAD/EMTDC). The central IED determined if the SLG fault was in a feeder or busbar by aggregating and analyzing the zero-sequence phasors received from the feeder IEDs. The results confirmed the validity and efficiency of our centralized protection scheme.