bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production of the Antihypertensive Peptide Tyr-Pro from Milk Using the White-Rot Fungus Peniophora sp. in Submerged Fermentation and a Jar Fermentor
Authors: Okamoto Kenji , Ito Ryosuke , Hayashi June , Tagawa Mizuki
Published: August 2021

In order to evaluate the blood pressure-lowering peptide Tyr-Pro (YP) derived from casein, we wanted to develop an efficient fermentation method. Therefore, we chose to use a jar fermentor for this purpose. Strains with an excellent antihypertensive peptide-releasing ability from casein were selected from basidiomycete fungi that grow well in milk under shaking conditions accompanied by physical stimulation. Among them, the white-rot fungus Peniophora sp., which is suited for growth only in cow’s milk or low-fat milk under vigorous shaking conditions, was found to release peptides and amino acids from milk. When comparing the growth in cow’s milk and low-fat milk, there was no particular difference in the growth of mycelia between the two, but this fungus tended to preferentially consume lactose under low-fat conditions. The fermented milk exhibited good production of the target peptide YP. The expression of many genes encoding proteolytic enzymes, such as aminopeptidases and carboxypeptidases, was observed during the milk fermentation. Furthermore, this fungus showed good growth in a jar fermentor culture using only cow’s milk or low-fat milk, which enabled the efficient production of YP and ACE-inhibitory activity. At this time, it was more effective to use cow’s milk than low-fat milk. These results suggest that Peniophora sp. could be potentially useful in the production of the functional YP peptide from milk.
A 10-Year Retrospective Review of Prenatal Applications, Current Challenges and Future Prospects of Three-Dimensional Sonoangiography
Authors: Wataganara Tuangsit , Rekhawasin Thanapa , Sompagdee Nalat , Viboonchart Sommai , Phithakwatchara Nisarat , Nawapun Katika
Published: August 2021

Realistic reconstruction of angioarchitecture within the morphological landmark with three-dimensional sonoangiography (three-dimensional power Doppler; 3D PD) may augment standard prenatal ultrasound and Doppler assessments. This study aimed to (a) present a technical overview, (b) determine additional advantages, (c) identify current challenges, and (d) predict trajectories of 3D PD for prenatal assessments. PubMed and Scopus databases for the last decade were searched. Although 307 publications addressed our objectives, their heterogeneity was too broad for statistical analyses. Important findings are therefore presented in descriptive format and supplemented with the authors’ 3D PD images. Acquisition, analysis, and display techniques need to be personalized to improve the quality of flow-volume data. While 3D PD indices of the first-trimester placenta may improve the prediction of preeclampsia, research is needed to standardize the measurement protocol. In highly experienced hands, the unique 3D PD findings improve the diagnostic accuracy of placenta accreta spectrum. A lack of quality assurance is the central challenge to incorporating 3D PD in prenatal care. Machine learning may broaden clinical translations of prenatal 3D PD. Due to its operator dependency, 3D PD has low reproducibility. Until standardization and quality assurance protocols are established, its use as a stand-alone clinical or research tool cannot be recommended.
Visualization of Forward Light Scatter in Opacified Intraocular Lenses and Straylight Assessment
Authors: Son Hyeck-Soo , Łabuz Grzegorz , Khoramnia Ramin , Yildirim Timur M. , Choi Chul Young , Knorz Michael C. , Auffarth Gerd U.
Published: August 2021

Background: Qualitative visualization of forward light scatter and quantitative straylight measurement of intraocular lenses (IOLs). Methods: We analyzed two calcified IOL-explants, the Euromaxx ALI313Y (Argonoptics GmbH) and the LS-312 MF30 (Oculentis BV), one IOL with artificially induced glistenings (PC-60AD, Hoya), and one control (CT Asphina 409MP, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG) free of any opacification. Analysis included light microscopy, qualitative light scatter visualization using ray propagation imaging technique, and quantitative straylight measurement using C-Quant (Oculus). Results: More light scattering effect—visible as increased light intensity outside the IOL’s main focus—was evident in all opacified IOLs than the control. The highest straylight levels were observed in the Euromaxx (289.71 deg2/sr), which showed extensive granular deposits throughout its optic, followed by the MF30 (78.58 deg2/sr), which only showed opacification in its center. The glistenings-IOL demonstrated numerous microvacuoles within the optic and had straylight levels of 22.6 deg2/sr, while the control showed the lowest straylight levels (1.7 deg2/sr). Conclusions: Ray propagation imaging technique allowed qualitative assessment of off-axis veils of light that result from increased forward light scattering. Straylight was increased in all opacified lenses compared to the clear control lens. The IOL opacifications are significant sources of glare.
Stability of OCT and OCTA in the Intensive Therapy Unit Setting
Authors: Courtie Ella F. , Kale Aditya U. , Hui Benjamin T. K. , Liu Xiaoxuan , Capewell Nicholas I. , Bishop Jonathan R. B. , Whitehouse Tony , Veenith Tonny , Logan Ann , Denniston Alastair K. , Blanch Richard J.
Published: August 2021

To assess the stability of retinal structure and blood flow measures over time and in different clinical settings using portable optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) as a potential biomarker of central perfusion in critical illness, 18 oesophagectomy patients completed retinal structure and blood flow measurements by portable OCT and OCTA in the eye clinic and intensive therapy unit (ITU) across three timepoints: (1) pre-operation in a clinic setting; (2) 24–48 h post-operation during ITU admission; and (3) seven days post-operation, if the patient was still admitted. Blood flow and macular structural measures were stable between the examination settings, with no consistent variation between pre- and post-operation scans, while retinal nerve fibre layer thickness increased in the post-operative scans (+2.31 µm, p = 0.001). Foveal avascular zone (FAZ) measurements were the most stable, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of up to 0.92 for right eye FAZ area. Blood flow and structural measures were lower in left eyes than right eyes. Retinal blood flow assessed in patients before and during an ITU stay using portable OCTA showed no systematic differences between the clinical settings. The stability of retinal blood flow measures suggests the potential for portable OCTA to provide clinically useful measures in ITU patients.
Abrasion Behaviour of Different Charcoal Toothpastes When Using Electric Toothbrushes
Authors: Greuling Andreas , Emke Johanna Maria , Eisenburger Michael
Published: August 2021

Objectives: The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the abrasion behaviour of different charcoal toothpastes when brushing with electric toothbrushes on human enamel. Materials and Methods: A self-designed brushing machine was built using six commercially available electric toothbrushes in abrasion chambers. Each chamber was constantly supplied with a toothpaste–water mix. Pieces of human enamel, which were embedded in PMMA, were brushed for 4 h. Before and after brushing, profilometer measurements were performed in order to determine the substance loss due to brushing. Results: The following calculated mean removal values (mean ± SD) were found: (4.6 ± 0.6) µm (Group C: Splat Blackwood), (3.2 ± 0.9) µm (Group D: Curaprox Black is White), (2.3 ± 0.7) µm (Group B: Sensodyne Pro Schmelz), (1.7 ± 0.6) µm (Group A: Water), (1.4 ± 0.6) µm (Group E: Prokudent Black Brilliant). A post hoc Tukey HSD test (p = 0.05) showed that the results for Group A/B/E, Group B/D and Group C each lie within subsets that differ statistically significantly from the other subsets. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it can be stated that some charcoal toothpastes lead to significantly higher abrasion on human enamel, when brushing with electric brushes. Clinical Relevance: As low-abrasion toothpaste is generally advisable, and some charcoal toothpastes should be viewed critically with regard to their abrasive properties.
Recent Advancements and Perspectives in UAS-Based Image Velocimetry
Authors: Dal Sasso Silvano Fortunato , Pizarro Alonso , Manfreda Salvatore
Published: August 2021

Videos acquired from Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) allow for monitoring river systems at high spatial and temporal resolutions providing unprecedented datasets for hydrological and hydraulic applications. The cost-effectiveness of these measurement methods stimulated the diffusion of image-based frameworks and approaches at scientific and operational levels. Moreover, their application in different environmental contexts gives us the opportunity to explore their reliability, potentialities and limitations, and future perspectives and developments. This paper analyses the recent progress on this topic, with a special focus on the main challenges to foster future research studies.
Fatigue Strength Curve for Tubular Joints of Offshore Structures under Dynamic Loading
Authors: Siriwardane Sudath C. , Adasooriya Nirosha D. , Pavlou Dimitrios
Published: August 2021

Offshore structures are subjected to dynamic environmental loads (wave and wind loads). A stress-life fatigue strength curve is proposed for tubular joints which are in the splash zone area of offshore jacket structures. The Det Norske Veritas (DNV) offshore structures standards given design T-curve in the air is modified with the environment-dependent parameters to obtain this fatigue strength curve. Validity of the curve is done by comparing fatigue lives given by the proposed curve with experimental fatigue lives of tubular joints tested in seawater under different loading conditions. The fatigue assessment of a case study tubular joint is performed using the proposed curve. Nominal stress ranges of the members, which are connected to the joint, are obtained by dynamic analysis of the jacket structure. Stress concentration factors are utilized with the nominal stresses to obtain the hot spot stress ranges. Fatigue lives are calculated and compared with the conventional approach. Hence the applicability and significance of the proposed fatigue strength curve are discussed.
Schrödinger’s Ballot: Quantum Information and the Violation of Arrow’s Impossibility Theorem
Authors: Sun Xin , He Feifei , Sopek Mirek , Guo Meiyun
Published: August 2021

We study Arrow’s Impossibility Theorem in the quantum setting. Our work is based on the work of Bao and Halpern, in which it is proved that the quantum analogue of Arrow’s Impossibility Theorem is not valid. However, we feel unsatisfied about the proof presented in Bao and Halpern’s work. Moreover, the definition of Quantum Independence of Irrelevant Alternatives (QIIA) in Bao and Halpern’s work seems not appropriate to us. We give a better definition of QIIA, which properly captures the idea of the independence of irrelevant alternatives, and a detailed proof of the violation of Arrow’s Impossibility Theorem in the quantum setting with the modified definition.
The Truncated Burr X-G Family of Distributions: Properties and Applications to Actuarial and Financial Data
Authors: Bantan Rashad A. R. , Chesneau Christophe , Jamal Farrukh , Elbatal Ibrahim , Elgarhy Mohammed
Published: August 2021

In this article, the “truncated-composed” scheme was applied to the Burr X distribution to motivate a new family of univariate continuous-type distributions, called the truncated Burr X generated family. It is mathematically simple and provides more modeling freedom for any parental distribution. Additional functionality is conferred on the probability density and hazard rate functions, improving their peak, asymmetry, tail, and flatness levels. These characteristics are represented analytically and graphically with three special distributions of the family derived from the exponential, Rayleigh, and Lindley distributions. Subsequently, we conducted asymptotic, first-order stochastic dominance, series expansion, Tsallis entropy, and moment studies. Useful risk measures were also investigated. The remainder of the study was devoted to the statistical use of the associated models. In particular, we developed an adapted maximum likelihood methodology aiming to efficiently estimate the model parameters. The special distribution extending the exponential distribution was applied as a statistical model to fit two sets of actuarial and financial data. It performed better than a wide variety of selected competing non-nested models. Numerical applications for risk measures are also given.
Joint Lossless Image Compression and Encryption Scheme Based on CALIC and Hyperchaotic System
Authors: Zhang Miao , Tong Xiaojun , Wang Zhu , Chen Penghui
Published: August 2021

For efficiency and security of image transmission and storage, the joint image compression and encryption method that performs compression and encryption in a single step is a promising solution due to better security. Moreover, on some important occasions, it is necessary to save images in high quality by lossless compression. Thus, a joint lossless image compression and encryption scheme based on a context-based adaptive lossless image codec (CALIC) and hyperchaotic system is proposed to achieve lossless image encryption and compression simultaneously. Making use of the characteristics of CALIC, four encryption locations are designed to realize joint image compression and encryption: encryption for the predicted values of pixels based on gradient-adjusted prediction (GAP), encryption for the final prediction error, encryption for two lines of pixel values needed by prediction mode and encryption for the entropy coding file. Moreover, a new four-dimensional hyperchaotic system and plaintext-related encryption based on table lookup are all used to enhance the security. The security tests show information entropy, correlation and key sensitivity of the proposed methods reach 7.997, 0.01 and 0.4998, respectively. This indicates that the proposed methods have good security. Meanwhile, compared to original CALIC without security, the proposed methods increase the security and reduce the compression ratio by only 6.3%. The test results indicate that the proposed methods have high security and good lossless compression performance.
Learning-Rate Annealing Methods for Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Nakamura Kensuke , Derbel Bilel , Won Kyoung-Jae , Hong Byung-Woo
Published: August 2021

Deep neural networks (DNNs) have achieved great success in the last decades. DNN is optimized using the stochastic gradient descent (SGD) with learning rate annealing that overtakes the adaptive methods in many tasks. However, there is no common choice regarding the scheduled-annealing for SGD. This paper aims to present empirical analysis of learning rate annealing based on the experimental results using the major data-sets on the image classification that is one of the key applications of the DNNs. Our experiment involves recent deep neural network models in combination with a variety of learning rate annealing methods. We also propose an annealing combining the sigmoid function with warmup that is shown to overtake both the adaptive methods and the other existing schedules in accuracy in most cases with DNNs.
Spatial Jitter Influence on the Average BLER Performance of SIMO FSO Links over Atmospheric Turbulence Channels
Authors: Androutsos Nikolaos A. , Nistazakis Hector E. , Chatzikontis Efstratios V. , Stassinakis Argyris N. , Tombras George S.
Published: August 2021

In the recent years, Free Space Optics (FSO) technology has attracted significant research and commercial interest mostly because of its many advantages in comparison with other radio systems used for point-to-point connections. However, the reliable operation of these systems significantly depends on the conditions of the atmosphere in the area in which the optical beam propagates. The most important of these conditions are atmospheric turbulence and the misalignment between the optical beam and the receiver, which is also known as the pointing errors effect. In this work, in order to obviate the performance mitigation caused by these phenomena, we examined the most widely accepted and one of the most effective techniques, i.e., the implementation of receivers’ diversity. Various metrics have been investigated to evaluate the performance of such systems, but most of them do not take into account that the ultra-fast modern optical communication systems use blocks of bits for the transmission and codes for the detection and/or correction of erroneous bits. Thus, by taking these aspects into account, in this work, we investigated the combined impact of spatial jitter and atmospheric turbulence on the total average block error rate of an optical wireless system with receivers’ diversity. Novel closed-form analytical formulas were derived.
Wideband Frequency Invariant Array Synthesis Based on Matrix Singular Value Decomposition
Authors: Xu Le , Li Rui , Chen Xiaoqun , Wei Feng , Shi Xiaowei
Published: August 2021

In this paper, an analytic method for frequency invariant (FI) array synthesis is proposed based on matrix singular value decomposition. By grouping the elements of FI array into a few subarrays, the FI pattern in the whole frequency band is realized. Using this algorithm, the number of sub arrays is reduced. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can synthesize the 64-element broadband FI array in 0.52 s. For the 18-element linear array, the half power beam width (HPBW) changes less than 0.6 degrees in the bandwidth. Moreover, the range of HPBW variation decreases rapidly along with the increase in the number of elements. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the algorithm is verified by synthesizing FI array with low side lobe level (SLL), beam scanning, and notch requirements. The examples in this paper show that the proposed algorithm can achieve better pattern characteristics with fewer elements. Finally, a broadband antenna with 2:1 bandwidth is improved, and two FI arrays of 23 elements and 64 elements are formed by using the antenna. The active pattern of the array element is introduced into the proposed algorithm, and two FI arrays synthesized by the algorithm are simulated by full wave software.
Data Transformation Schemes for CNN-Based Network Traffic Analysis: A Survey
Authors: Krupski Jacek , Graniszewski Waldemar , Iwanowski Marcin
Published: August 2021

The enormous growth of services and data transmitted over the internet, the bloodstream of modern civilization, has caused a remarkable increase in cyber attack threats. This fact has forced the development of methods of preventing attacks. Among them, an important and constantly growing role is that of machine learning (ML) approaches. Convolutional neural networks (CNN) belong to the hottest ML techniques that have gained popularity, thanks to the rapid growth of computing power available. Thus, it is no wonder that these techniques have started to also be applied in the network traffic classification domain. This has resulted in a constant increase in the number of scientific papers describing various approaches to CNN-based traffic analysis. This paper is a survey of them, prepared with particular emphasis on a crucial but often disregarded aspect of this topic—the data transformation schemes. Their importance is a consequence of the fact that network traffic data and machine learning data have totally different structures. The former is a time series of values—consecutive bytes of the datastream. The latter, in turn, are one-, two- or even three-dimensional data samples of fixed lengths/sizes. In this paper, we introduce a taxonomy of data transformation schemes. Next, we use this categorization to describe various CNN-based analytical approaches found in the literature.
Energy Intensity of Steel Manufactured Utilising EAF Technology as a Function of Investments Made: The Case of the Steel Industry in Poland
Authors: Gajdzik Bożena , Sroka Włodzimierz , Vveinhardt Jolita
Published: August 2021

The production of steel in the world is dominated by two types of technologies: BF + BOF (the blast furnace and basic oxygen furnace, also known as integrated steel plants) and EAF (the electric arc furnace). The BF + BOF process uses a lot of natural resources (iron ore is a feedstock for steel production) and fossil fuels. As a result, these steel mills have a significantly negative impact on the environment. In turn, EAF technology is characterised by very low direct emissions and very high indirect emissions. The raw material for steel production is steel scrap, the processing of which is highly energy-consuming. This paper analyses the energy intensity of steel production in Poland as a function of investments made in the steel industry in the years 2000–2019. Statistical data on steel production in the EAF process in Poland (which represents an approximately 50% share of the steel produced, as the rest is produced utilising the BF + BOF process) was used. Slight fluctuations are caused by the periodic switching of technology for economic or technical reasons. The hypothesis stating that there is a relationship between the volume of steel production utilising the EAF process and the energy consumption of the process, which is influenced by investments, was formulated. Econometric modelling was used as the research method and three models were constructed: (1) a two-factor power model; (2) a linear two-factor model; and (3) a linear one-factor model. Our findings show that the correlation is negative, that is, along with the increase in technological investments in electric steel plants in Poland, a decrease in the energy consumption of steel produced in electric furnaces was noted during the analysed period.
Optimal Earthquake Intensity Measures for Probabilistic Seismic Demand Models of Base-Isolated Nuclear Power Plant Structures
Authors: Nguyen Duy-Duan , Lee Tae-Hyung , Phan Van-Tien
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the optimal earthquake intensity measures (IMs) for probabilistic seismic demand models (PSDMs) of the base-isolated nuclear power plant (NPP) structures. The numerical model of NPP structures is developed using a lumped-mass stick model, in which a bilinear model is employed to simulate the force-displacement relations of base isolators. In this study, 20 different IMs are considered and 90 ground motion records are used to perform time-history analyses. The seismic engineering demand parameters (EDPs) are monitored in terms of maximum floor displacement (MFD), the maximum floor acceleration (MFA) of the structures, and maximum isolator displacement (MID). As a result, a set of PSDMs of the base-isolated structure is developed based on three EDPs (i.e., MFD, MFA, and MID) associated with 20 IMs. Four statistical parameters including the coefficient of determination, efficiency (i.e., standard deviation), practicality, and proficiency are then calculated to evaluate optimal IMs for seismic performances of the isolated NPP structures. The results reveal that the optimal IMs for PSDMs with respect to MFD and MID are velocity spectrum intensity, Housner intensity, peak ground velocity, and spectral velocity at the fundamental period. Meanwhile, peak ground acceleration, acceleration spectrum intensity, A95, effective peak acceleration, and sustained maximum acceleration are efficient IMs for PSDMs with respect to MFA of the base-isolated structures. On the other hand, cumulative absolute velocity is not recommended for determining the exceedance of the operating basis earthquake of base-isolated NPP structures.
Analysis of the Parameters of the Two-Sections Hot Side Heat Exchanger of the Module with Thermoelectric Generators
Authors: Neska Mirosław , Mrozek Mirosław , Żurek-Mortka Marta , Majcher Andrzej
Published: August 2021

One of the methods of converting thermal energy into electricity is the use of thermoelectric generators (TEG). The method can be used in low-temperature waste heat conversion systems from industrial installations, but its serious limitation is the low efficiency of thermolectric generators and the relatively low power of the electric waveforms obtained. Increasing the obtained power values is done by multiplying the number of TEGs used, grouped into modules (MTEG). In such systems, the design of the module is extremely important, as it should ensure the best possible heat transfer between both sides of the TEG (hot and cold), and thus obtaining maximum electrical power. The article presents an analysis of a two-section flat plate heat hot side exchanger MTEG. The key parameters like effectiveness of exchange and MTEG efficiency and their impact on the efficiency of heat use and generated electric power were indicated. The tests showed an improvement in these main system parameters for the mixed cycle (co-current and countercurrent—inward direction) of the hot side heat exchanger, compared to the countercurrent flow in both sections of this exchanger.
A High-Accuracy Thermal Conductivity Model for Water-Based Graphene Nanoplatelet Nanofluids
Authors: Elcioglu Elif Begum
Published: August 2021

High energetic efficiency is a major requirement in industrial processes. The poor thermal conductivity of conventional working fluids stands as a limitation for high thermal efficiency in thermal applications. Nanofluids tackle this limitation by their tunable and enhanced thermal conductivities compared to their base fluid counterparts. In particular, carbon-based nanoparticles (e.g., carbon nanotubes, graphene nanoplatelets, etc.) have attracted attention since they exhibit thermal conductivities much greater than those of metal-oxide and metallic nanoparticles. In this work, thermal conductivity data from the literature are processed by employing rigorous statistical methodology. A high-accuracy regression equation is developed for the prediction of thermal conductivity of graphene nanoplatelet-water nanofluids, based on the temperature (15–60 °C), nanoparticle weight fraction (0.025–0.1 wt.%), and graphene nanoparticle specific surface area (300–750 m2/g). The strength of the impact of these variables on the graphene nanoplatelet thermal conductivity data can be sorted from the highest to lowest as temperature, nanoparticle loading, and graphene nanoplatelet specific surface area. The model developed by multiple linear regression with three independent variables has a determination coefficient of 97.1% and exhibits convenience for its ease of use from the existing prediction equations with two independent variables.
Diagnostic Protocol for Thermal Performance of District Heating Pipes in Operation. Part 1: Estimation of Supply Pipe Temperature by Measuring Temperature at Valves after Shutdown
Authors: Lidén Peter , Adl-Zarrabi Bijan , Hagentoft Carl-Eric
Published: August 2021

This study evaluates temperatures measured at district heating (DH) valves in manholes and their usability for non-destructively assessing the thermal performance of buried DH pipes. The study was conducted as a field test in which part of a DH network was shut down and the temperature decline in the valves was analysed in terms of absolute temperature and thermal response time from the DH pipe to the top of the valve. The calculated and measured supply pipe temperatures by the drainage valves were in good agreement, with 1% deviation. The valve measurement analysis from this study shows that the drainage valve has good potential to serve as a measurement point for assessing the thermal status of a DH network. However, the shutdown valve measurements were greatly affected by the manhole environment.
Study of a Bi-Vertical Axis Turbines Farm Using the Actuator Cylinder Method
Authors: Jégo Laurie , Guillou Sylvain
Published: August 2021

Vertical axis turbines, which extract kinetic energy from currents, can produce electricity independently from a current’s direction. Hence, this type of turbines raises interest for harvesting energy from tidal currents, where flow changes direction during flood and ebb tides, and where currents present large variation of direction during tide. Methods for representing vertical axis turbines in tidal farms should be implemented in order to predict correctly power production with an acceptable time cost. The Actuator Cylinder (AC) is one of them. Numerical results in terms of wakes, with the study of velocity profiles, and efforts are compared to experiences, as well as showed that the method is sufficiently accurate and for a reasonable computing time, which is of prime importance for tidal turbines farms studies. The Actuator Cylinder method is implemented in ANSYS Fluent in a 2D stationary resolution. The method is then applied to a double levels of two counter-rotating rotors marine turbine designed by Hydroquest. Wake and power production of a single turbine and several farm configurations are studied under different current conditions (magnitude and direction).
Hydrodynamic Modeling of Oil–Water Stratified Smooth Two-Phase Turbulent Flow in Horizontal Circular Pipes
Authors: Kang Qi , Gu Jiapeng , Qi Xueyu , Wu Ting , Wang Shengjie , Chen Sihang , Wang Wei , Gong Jing
Published: August 2021

In the petrochemical industry, multiphase flow, including oil–water two-phase stratified laminar flow, is more common and can be easily obtained through mathematical analysis. However, there is limited mathematical analytical model for the simulation of oil–water flow under turbulent flow. This paper introduces a two-dimensional (2D) numerical simulation method to investigate the pressure gradient, flow field, and oil–water interface height of a pipeline cross-section of horizontal tube in an oil–water stratified smooth flow. Three Reynolds average N–S equation models (k−ε, k−ω, SST k−ω) are involved to simulate oil–water stratified smooth flow according to the finite volume method. The pressure gradient and oil–water interface height can be computed according to the given volume flow rate using the iteration method. The predicted result of oil–water interface height and velocity profile by the model fit well with several published experimental data, except that there is a large error in pressure gradient. The SST k−ω turbulence model appears higher accuracy for simulating oil–water two-phase stratified flow in a horizontal pipe.
Towards Optimal Management in Microgrids: An Overview
Authors: Topa Gavilema Álex Omar , Álvarez José Domingo , Torres Moreno José Luis , García Manuel Pérez
Published: August 2021

A microgrid is a set of decentralized loads and electricity sources, mainly renewable. It can operate connected to and synchronized with a traditional wide-area synchronous grid, i.e., a macrogrid, but can also be disconnected to operate in “island mode” or “isolated mode”. When this microgrid is able to manage its own resources and loads through the use of smart meters, smart appliances, control systems, and the like, it is referred to as a smart grid. Therefore, the management and the distribution of the energy inside the microgrid is an important issue, especially when operating in isolated mode. This work presents an overview of the different solutions that have been tested during the last few years to manage microgrids. The review shows the variety of mature and tested solutions for managing microgrids with different configurations and under several approaches.
A Feasible Technique in Laparoscopic Excision for Juvenile Cystic Adenomyosis: A Case Report, Literature Review, and Surgical Video
Authors: Katakura Masafumi , Katagiri Yukiko , Ota Kuniaki , Mukai Takafumi , Nakaoka Kentaro , Maemura Toshimitsu , Morita Mineto
Published: August 2021

Background: Juvenile cystic adenomyosis (JCA) is a rare uterine lesion. We present the case of a young woman who was diagnosed with JCA and subsequently managed with laparoscopic cyst removal with sharp and blunt dissection. Moreover, we provide a literature review and a surgical video. Case: A 22-year-old nulliparous woman presented with severe dysmenorrhea and was assessed using contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography, transvaginal ultrasonography and pelvic magnetic resonance imaging, and diagnosed with a cystic lesion on the left side of the myometrium. She underwent laparoscopic cyst excision and uterine reconstruction. Histology was suggestive of JCA. The dysmenorrhea resolved postoperatively. Conclusion: Surgical resection is the first choice of treatment for cystic adenomyosis, and a laparoscopic approach using scissor forceps is effective.
Effects of Organic Fertilizer Mixed with Food Waste Dry Powder on the Growth of Chinese Cabbage Seedlings
Authors: Kang Sang-Mo , Shaffique Shifa , Kim Lee-Rang , Kwon Eun-Hae , Kim Seong-Heon , Lee Yun-Hae , Kalsoom Kalsoom , Aaqil Khan Muhammad , Lee In-Jung
Published: August 2021

Food waste is a common global threat to the environment, agriculture, and society. In the present study, we used 30% food waste, mixed with 70% bio-fertilizers, and evaluated their ability to affect the growth of Chinese cabbage. The experiment was conducted using different concentrations of food waste to investigate their effect on Chinese cabbage growth, chlorophyll content, and mineral content. Leaf length, root length, and fresh and dry weight were significantly increased in plants treated with control fertilizer (CF) and fertilizer mixed with food waste (MF). However, high concentrations of food waste decreased the growth and biomass of Chinese cabbage due to salt content. Furthermore, higher chlorophyll content, transpiration efficiency, and photosynthetic rate were observed in CF- and MF-treated plants, while higher chlorophyll fluorescence was observed in the MF × 2 and MF × 6 treatments. Inductively coupled plasm mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) results showed an increase in potassium (K), calcium (Ca), phosphorous (P), and magnesium (Mg) contents in the MF and MF × 2 treatments, while higher sodium (Na) content was observed in the MF × 4 and MF × 6 treatments due to the high salt content found in food waste. The analysis of abscisic acid (ABA) showed that increasing amounts of food waste increase the endogenous ABA content, compromising the survival of plants. In conclusion, optimal amounts of food waste—up to MF and MF × 2—increase plant growth and provide an ecofriendly approach to be employed in the agriculture production system.
Reconstruction of Conifer Root Systems Mapped with Point Cloud Data Obtained by 3D Laser Scanning Compared with Manual Measurement
Authors: Todo Chikage , Ikeno Hidetoshi , Yamase Keitaro , Tanikawa Toko , Ohashi Mizue , Dannoura Masako , Kimura Toshifumi , Hirano Yasuhiro
Published: August 2021

Three-dimensional (3D) root system architecture (RSA) is a predominant factor in anchorage failure in trees. Only a few studies have used 3D laser scanners to evaluate RSA, but they do not check the accuracy of measurements. 3D laser scanners can quickly obtain RSA data, but the data are collected as a point cloud with a large number of points representing surfaces. The point cloud data must be converted into a set of interconnected axes and segments to compute the root system traits. The purposes of this study were: (i) to propose a new method for easily obtaining root point data as 3D coordinates and root diameters from point cloud data acquired by 3D laser scanner measurement; and (ii) to compare the accuracy of the data from main roots with intensive manual measurement. We scanned the excavated root systems of two Pinus thunbergii Parl. trees using a 3D laser scanner and neuTube software, which was developed for reconstructing the neuronal structure, to convert the point cloud data into root point data for reconstructing RSA. The reconstruction and traits of the RSA calculated from point cloud data were similar in accuracy to intensive manual measurements. Roots larger than 7 mm in diameter were accurately measured by the 3D laser scanner measurement. In the proposed method, the root point data were connected as a frustum of cones, so the reconstructed RSAs were simpler than the 3D root surfaces. However, the frustum of cones still showed the main coarse root segments correctly. We concluded that the proposed method could be applied to reconstruct the RSA and calculate traits using point cloud data of the root system, on the condition that it was possible to model both the stump and ovality of root sections.
Saving the Forest from the Trees: Expert Views on Funding Restoration of Northern Arizona Ponderosa Pine Forests through Registered Carbon Offsets
Authors: Miller Brett Alan , Pearse William D. , Flint Courtney G.
Published: August 2021

Ponderosa pine forests in the southwestern United States of America are overly dense, increasing the risk of high-intensity stand-replacing wildfires that result in the loss of terrestrial carbon and release of carbon dioxide, contributing to global climate change. Restoration is needed to restore forest structure and function so that a more natural regime of higher frequency, lower intensity wildfires returns. However, restoration has been hampered by the significant cost of restoration and other institutional barriers. To create additional revenue streams to pay for restoration, the National Forest Foundation supported the development of a methodology for the estimation and verification of carbon offsets generated by the restoration of ponderosa pine forests in northern Arizona. The methodology was submitted to the American Carbon Registry, a prominent carbon registry, but it was ultimately rejected. This paper presents a post-mortem examination of that methodology and the reasons it was rejected in order to improve the development of similar methodologies in the future. Using a mixed-methods approach, this paper analyzes the potential atmospheric carbon benefits of the proposed carbon offset methodology and the public and peer-reviewed comments from the associated review of the methodology. Results suggest a misalignment between the priorities of carbon registries and the context-specific ecosystem service benefits of this type of restoration; although findings confirm the potential for reductions in released carbon due to restoration, these results illuminate barriers that complicate registering these reductions as voluntary carbon offsets under current guidelines and best practices, especially on public land. These barriers include substantial uncertainty about the magnitude and timing of carbon benefits. Overcoming these barriers will require active reflexivity by the institutions that register voluntary carbon offsets and the institutions that manage public lands in the United States. Such reflexivity, or reconsideration of the concepts and purposes of carbon offsets and/or forest restoration, will allow future approaches to better align objectives for successfully registering restoration-based voluntary carbon offsets. Therefore, the results of this analysis can inform the development of future methodologies, policies, and projects with similar goals in the same or different landscapes.
Vibration and Noise Exposure during Pre-Commercial Thinning Operations: What Are the Ergonomic Benefits of the Latest Generation Professional-Grade Battery-Powered Chainsaws?
Authors: Huber Martin , Hoffmann Stephan , Brieger Frauke , Hartsch Florian , Jaeger Dirk , Sauter Udo Hans
Published: August 2021

In order to compare the vibration and noise exposure of STIHL’s battery-powered MSA 220 C and the combustion driven MS 201 C, a professional operator was monitored during a pre-commercial thinning operation in a twenty-year-old hardwood stand. The vibration levels were measured with a tri-axial accelerometer on the front and rear handle of both the chainsaws, and assigned to five different work elements using a video documentation. Additionally, noise levels were recorded in one-minute intervals, with a dosemeter worn by the operator. The results show that battery-powered chainsaws, when compared to combustion-driven chainsaws, can reduce the daily vibration exposure by more than 45% and the noise dose by about 78.4%, during pre-commercial thinning tasks. Replacing combustion-driven chainsaws with battery-powered ones is therefore generally recommended, to reduce occupational health risks for operators, in this respect. However, the daily vibration exposure of about 2.42 m/s2, caused by the battery-powered chainsaw on the front handle, is still very close to the daily exposure action value set by the EU directives for health and safety requirements. The daily noise exposure of 89.18 dB(A) even exceeds the upper exposure action value. Consequently, a further reduction in the vibration exposure during work is desirable. With respect to noise exposure, additional measures must be implemented for conformity with the current safety standards, making the use of hearing protectors mandatory for electric chainsaws, too.
Invertebrate Assemblages on Biscogniauxia Sporocarps on Oak Dead Wood: An Observation Aided by Squirrels
Authors: Fukasawa Yu
Published: August 2021

Dead wood is an important habitat for both fungi and insects, two enormously diverse groups that contribute to forest biodiversity. Unlike the myriad of studies on fungus–insect relationships, insect communities on ascomycete sporocarps are less explored, particularly for those in hidden habitats such as underneath bark. Here, I present my observations of insect community dynamics on Biscogniauxia spp. on oak dead wood from the early anamorphic stage to matured teleomorph stage, aided by the debarking behaviour of squirrels probably targeting on these fungi. In total, 38 insect taxa were observed on Biscogniauxia spp. from March to November. The community composition was significantly correlated with the presence/absence of Biscogniauxia spp. Additionally, Librodor (Glischrochilus) ipsoides, Laemophloeus submonilis, and Neuroctenus castaneus were frequently recorded and closely associated with Biscogniauxia spp. along its change from anamorph to teleomorph. L. submonilis was positively associated with both the anamorph and teleomorph stages. L. ipsoides and N. castaneus were positively associated with only the teleomorph but not with the anamorph stage. N. castaneus reproduced and was found on Biscogniauxia spp. from June to November. These results suggest that sporocarps of Biscogniauxia spp. are important to these insect taxa, depending on their developmental stage.
Lao Plantation Policy: Prospects for Change
Authors: Smith Hilary , Kanowski Peter , Keenan Rodney J. , Phimmavong Somvang
Published: August 2021

Policies to promote tree plantations in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic have been developed since independence to support national socio-economic and environmental goals, and in response to domestic and international markets. The effectiveness of these policies has been variable, and the resulting plantation wood value chains are poorly developed due to contradictory and confusing laws and regulations with inconsistent application and high transaction costs. Consequently, there has been limited tree plantation investment, and few investments have realized the anticipated benefits. Renewed interest in plantations from the government, investors and other sectors in Laos has prompted policy reviews and recognition of the need for new policy settings. We reviewed the development of plantation policies in Laos and assessed policy effectiveness and barriers to policy options. Through document analysis, interviews with key stakeholders and actors, stakeholder forums, and field research, we found that smarter regulation, and facilitating value-chain partnerships and knowledge sharing, can motivate smallholders and industry investors in plantations, and increase community-level benefits and financial returns to the Government and private sector. These results are discussed in the context of current international developments in plantation policy and the convergence in related policy processes in Laos.
Initial Floristic Response to High Severity Wildfire in an Old-Growth Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens (D. Don) Endl.) Forest
Authors: Mahdizadeh Mojgan , Russell Will
Published: August 2021

Climate driven increases in fire frequency and severity are predicted for Mediterranean climatic zones, including the Pacific coast of California. A recent high severity wildfire that burned in the Santa Cruz Mountains affected a variety of vegetation types, including ancient coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens (D. Don) Endl.) stands. The purpose of this study was to characterize the survival and initial recovery of vegetation approximately six months after the fire. We sampled thirty randomly selected points in an old-growth coast redwood forest to examine and compare survival, crown retention, and post fire regeneration of trees by species, and the recovery of associated understory plant species. Sequoia sempervirens exhibited the highest post-fire survival (95%), with lower survival rates for subcanopy hardwood associates including tanoak (Notholithocarpus densiflorus (Hook. & Arn.) Manos) (88%), coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia Nee.) (93%), Pacific wax myrtle (Myrica californica (Cham. & Schltdl.) Wilbur) (75%), Pacific madrone (Arbutus menziesii Pursh) (71%), and the lowest survival recorded for the canopy codominant Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) (15%). Canopy retention and post fire regeneration were also highest for S. sempervirens and lowest for P. menziesii, indicating that S. sempervirens had a competitive advantage over P. menziesii following high severity crown fire. Both canopy survival and regeneration were greater for larger height and diameter trees; and basal sprouting was positively associated with tree height and diameter for S. sempervirens and N. densiflorus. Observed recovery of understory species was modest but included the reemergence of coast redwood associated herbaceous species. The robust nature of survival and recovery of S. sempervirens following this extreme fire event suggest that the removal of scorched, and the seeding or planting of trees, following this type of fire is contraindicated. The decline of P. menziesii is of concern, however, and suggests that repeated high severity fires driven by climate change could eventually lead to vegetation type conversion.
Optimization of Pre-Inoculum, Fermentation Process Parameters and Precursor Supplementation Conditions to Enhance Apigenin Production by a Recombinant Streptomyces albus Strain
Authors: Barbuto Ferraiuolo Simona , Restaino Odile Francesca , Gutiérrez-del-Río Ignacio , Ventriglia Riccardo , Cammarota Marcella , Villar Claudio J. , Lombó Felipe , Schiraldi Chiara
Published: August 2021

Streptomyces albus J1074-pAPI (Streptomyces albus-pAPI) is a recombinant strain constructed to biotechnologically produce apigenin, a flavonoid with interesting bioactive features that up to now has been manufactured by extraction from plants with long and not environmentally friendly procedures. So far, in literature, only a maximum apigenin concentration of 80.0 µg·L−1 has been obtained in shake flasks. In this paper, three integrated fermentation strategies were exploited to enhance the apigenin production by Streptomyces albus J1074-pAPI, combining specific approaches for pre-inoculum conditions, optimization of fermentation process parameters and supplementation of precursors. Using a pre-inoculum of mycelium, the apigenin concentration increased of 1.8-fold in shake flask physiological studies. In 2L batch fermentation, the aeration and stirring conditions were optimized and integrated with the new inoculum approach and the apigenin production reached 184.8 ± 4.0 µg·L−1, with a productivity of 2.6 ± 0.1 μg·L−1·h−1. The supplementation of 1.5 mM L-tyrosine in batch fermentations allowed to obtain an apigenin production of 343.3 ± 3.0 µg·L−1 in only 48 h, with an increased productivity of 7.1 ± 0.1 μg·L−1·h−1. This work demonstrates that the optimization of fermentation process conditions is a crucial requirement to increase the apigenin concentration and productivity by up to 4.3- and 10.7-fold.