bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Harnessing Visibility and Invisibility through Arts Practices: Ethnographic Case Studies with Migrant Performers in Belgium
Authors: Damery Shannon , Mescoli Elsa
Published: April 2019

This paper endeavors to understand the role of arts in migration-related issues by offering insights into the different ways in which artistic practices can be used by migrants and investigating migrants’ differing objectives in participating in the arts. Through the exploration of the initiatives of undocumented and refugee migrants involved in artistic groups in Belgium, this paper compares the motivations of the performers and concludes that art can operate as an empowering tool for migrants as it constitutes a space for agency, notwithstanding the specific scope of which it is contextually charged. It allows migrants to render themselves visible or invisible, depending on their contrasting motivations. The creative productions of the first group, composed by members of “La Voix des sans papiers de Liège”, a collective of undocumented migrants, corresponds to an explicit effort of political engagement in the local context. The other examples are of undocumented and refugee artists joining musical groups with no specific aim of promoting the cause of undocumented and refugee persons. The choice to be involved in such groups highlights their desire to be, in some ways, invisible and anonymous while participating in this collective of artists. Through these examples, we see that art offers opportunities for migrants to actively participate in the socio-cultural and political environment in which they reside and to claim various forms of official and unofficial belonging whether it occurs through visibility or invisibility.
Ambient Mercury Observations near a Coal-Fired Power Plant in a Western U.S. Urban Area
Authors: Gratz Lynne E. , Eckley Chris S. , Schwantes Story J. , Mattson Erick
Published: April 2019

We report on the continuous ambient measurements of total gaseous mercury (TGM) and several ancillary air quality parameters that were collected in Colorado Springs, CO. This urban area, which is located adjacent to the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, is the second largest metropolitan area in Colorado and has a centrally located coal-fired power plant that installed mercury (Hg) emission controls the year prior to our study. There are few other Hg point sources within the city. Our results, which were obtained from a measurement site < 1 km from the power plant, show a distinct diel pattern in TGM, with peak concentrations occurring during the night (1.7 ± 0.3 ng m−3) and minimum concentrations mid-day (1.5 ± 0.2 ng m−3). The TGM concentrations were not correlated with wind originating from the direction of the plant or with sulfur dioxide (SO2) mixing ratios, and they were not elevated when the atmospheric mixing height was above the effective stack height. These findings suggest that the current Hg emissions from the CFPP did not significantly influence local TGM, and they are consistent with the facility’s relatively low reported annual emissions of 0.20 kg Hg per year. Instead, variability in the regional signal, diurnal meteorological conditions, and/or near-surface emission sources appears to more greatly influence TGM at this urban site.
Emissions of a Euro 6b Diesel Passenger Car Retrofitted with a Solid Ammonia Reduction System
Authors: Giechaskiel Barouch , Suarez-Bertoa Ricardo , Lahde Tero , Clairotte Michael , Carriero Massimo , Bonnel Pierre , Maggiore Maurizio
Published: April 2019

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions from diesel vehicles are a serious environmental concern. Prior to the introduction of on-road tests at type approval, vehicle on-road NOx emissions were found many times higher than the applicable limits. Retrofitting an existing vehicle is a short/mid-term solution. We evaluated a NOx reduction retrofit system installed on a Euro 6b diesel passenger car both in the laboratory and on the road. The retrofit consisted of an under-floor SCR (selective catalytic reduction) for NOx catalyst in combination with a solid ammonia-based dosing system as the NOx reductant. The retrofit reduced NOx emissions from 25% (50 mg/km) to 82% (725 mg/km) both in the laboratory and on the road. The minimum reduction was achieved at cold start cycles and the maximum at hot start cycles. The retrofit had small effect on CO2 (fuel consumption). No ammonia emissions were detected and the N2O increase was negligible at cold start cycles, but up to 18 mg/km at hot start cycles. The results showed that the retrofit technology could be beneficial even for high emitting Euro 6b diesel vehicles.
LcNAC13 Physically Interacts with LcR1MYB1 to Coregulate Anthocyanin Biosynthesis-Related Genes during Litchi Fruit Ripening
Authors: Jiang Guoxiang , Li Zhiwei , Song Yunbo , Zhu Hong , Lin Sen , Huang Riming , Jiang Yueming , Duan Xuewu
Published: April 2019

Anthocyanin accumulation is crucial for the development of quality for most fruit. The mechanism underlying the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis by transcription factors in litchi fruit remains largely unknown. In this study, we isolated one NAC (NAM, ATAF1/2 and CUC2) TF gene, LcNAC13. Expression of LcNAC13 was upregulated as ripening proceeded, followed by the accumulation of anthocyanins. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and transient expression assay showed that LcNAC13 could negatively regulate the expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis-related genes, including LcCHS1/2, LcCHI, LcF3H, LcF3’H, LcDFR, and LcMYB1. Furthermore, LcR1MYB1, as one R1-MYB type MYB, was identified to physically interact with LcNAC13 and reverse the effect of LcNAC13. Taken together, these results suggested that LcNAC13 and LcR1MYB1 may act together to antagonistically regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis during litchi fruit ripening, which helps to provide new insights into the regulatory networks of anthocyanin biosynthesis.
Proteomic Analysis Implicates Vimentin in Glioblastoma Cell Migration
Authors: Nowicki Michal O. , Hayes Josie L. , Chiocca E. Antonio , Lawler Sean E.
Published: April 2019

We previously showed lithium chloride (LiCl) and other inhibitors of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) including 6-bromo-indirubin-3-oxime (BIO), can block glioblastoma (GBM) cell migration. To investigate the mechanisms involved we used two-dimensional difference in-gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) and mass spectrometry to identify proteins altered after treatment of U251 GBM cells with 20 mM LiCl. Downregulation of the intermediate filament protein vimentin was the most significant change identified. Analysis of patient tumor samples revealed that vimentin is expressed abundantly in GBM, and is prognostic especially in lower grade tumors. Additionally, siRNA-mediated vimentin knockdown impaired GBM migration. Western blotting showed that treatment with LiCl or small molecule GSK-3 inhibitors led to the rapid downregulation of detergent soluble vimentin levels across a panel of GBM-derived cells. Fluorescence reactivation after photobleaching (FRAP) microscopy studies showed a significant reduction in the ability of the vimentin cytoskeleton to recover from photo-bleaching in the presence of LiCl or BIO. Biochemical studies revealed that GSK-3 and vimentin directly interact, and analysis of vimentin revealed a GSK-3 consensus phosphorylation site. We conclude that anti-migratory compounds with the ability to inhibit GSK-3 have effects on vimentin cytoskeletal dynamics, which may play a role in their anti-invasive activity.
Unlocking the Potential of Saliva-Based Test to Detect HPV-16-Driven Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Tang Kai Dun , Baeten Kurt , Kenny Liz , Frazer Ian H. , Scheper Gert , Punyadeera Chamindie
Published: April 2019

The incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) is rising in high-income countries, including Australia. Increasing evidence suggests that accurate HPV testing is pivotal for clinical decision making and treatment planning in these patients. Recently, the eighth edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer/Union for International Cancer Control (AJCC/UICC) tumor–node–metastasis (TNM) staging system for OPC (based on the p16INK4a (p16) status) was proposed and has been implemented. However, the applicability of this new staging system is still far from clear. In our study, n = 127 OPC patients from Queensland, Australia were recruited, and the tumor p16 expression in these patients was examined using immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis. HPV-16 genotyping, viral load, and physical status (episomal versus integrated) in the saliva samples of OPC patients were determined using the qPCR method. A good inter-rater agreement (k = 0.612) was found between tumor p16 expression and oral HPV-16 infection in OPC. Importantly, according to the eighth edition staging system, HPV-16 DNA viral load (>10 copies/50 ng) was significantly associated with the advanced stages of OPC. In concordance with previous studies, a mixed HPV-16 form (partially or fully integrated) was predominately found in OPC patients. Taken together, our data support HPV-16 detection in saliva as a screening biomarker to identify people within the community who are at risk of developing OPC.
Potent In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Activity of New Bipyridine and Bipyrimidine Gold (III) Dithiocarbamate Derivatives
Authors: Altaf Muhammad , Casagrande Naike , Mariotto Elena , Baig Nadeem , Kawde Abdel-Nasser , Corona Giuseppe , Larcher Roberto , Borghese Cinzia , Pavan Claudia , Seliman Adam A. , Aldinucci Donatella , Isab Anvarhusein A.
Published: April 2019

We synthesized eight new bipyridine and bipyrimidine gold (III) dithiocarbamate-containing complexes (C1–C8) and tested them in a panel of human cancer cell lines. We used osteosarcoma (MG-63), lung (A549), prostate (PC3 and DU145), breast (MCF-7), ovarian (A2780 and A2780cis, cisplatin- and doxorubicin-resistant), and cervical (ME-180 and R-ME-180, cisplatin resistant) cancer cell lines. We found that C2, C3, C6, and C7 were more cytotoxic than cisplatin in all cell lines tested and overcame cisplatin and doxorubicin resistance in A2780cis and R-ME-180 cells. In the PC3 prostate cancer cell line, the gold (III) complex C6 ([Au2(BPM)(DMDTC)2]Cl4) induced apoptosis and double-stranded DNA breaks, modified cell cycle phases, increased Reactive Oxigen Species (ROS) generation, and reduced thioredoxin reductase and proteasome activities. It inhibited PC3 cell migration and was more cytotoxic against PC3 cells than normal human adipose-derived stromal cells. In mice bearing PC3 tumor xenografts, C6 reduced tumor growth by more than 70% without causing weight loss. Altogether, our results demonstrate the anticancer activity of these new gold (III) complexes and support the potential of C6 as a new agent for prostate cancer treatment.
Towards New Catalytic Antioxidants: A Simple and Mild Synthesis of Selenenylsulfides
Authors: Tanini Damiano , Bonardi Chiara , Viglianisi Caterina , Capperucci Antonella , Menichetti Stefano
Published: April 2019

A new methodology for the synthesis of small molecules containing the S-Se bond is reported. Aryl- and alkyl-selenols react smoothly with N-thiophthalimides to afford the corresponding selenenylsulfides through a clean SN2 path occurring at the sulfur atom. The reaction proceeds under very mild conditions in DMF in absence of catalysts for most of the substrates. The scope of the reaction was found to be broad, allowing a wide series of selenols and N-thiophtalimides to be efficiently employed in this procedure. Owing to the instability of the S-Se bond, selenenylsulfides exhibited a remarkable tendency to disproportionate to the corresponding symmetric diselenides and disulfides. Preliminary evaluation of the catalytic antioxidant properties of novel selenenylsulfides showed their behaviour as GPx mimics.
Studies of the Catalytic Activity of Iron (III) Porphyrins for the Protection of Carbonyl Groups in Homogeneous Media
Authors: Ferreira Gabriel Kaetan Baio , Carvalho Charles , Nakagaki Shirley
Published: April 2019

The protection of carbonyl groups that produce acetal products is a key reaction in fine chemistry due to the high reactivity of aldehydes and ketones in certain media. This process can be catalyzed by protic or Lewis acids. Since metalloporphyrins often possess free axial positions in the central metal, they can be applied as Lewis acid catalysts, allowing the additional coordination of substrates. Therefore, three ferric complexes were selected to be evaluated as catalysts for the acetalization of benzaldehyde with ethanol and triethyl orthoformate (TEOF) in the homogeneous phase: (i) 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(phenylporphyrin) iron (III) chloride (Fe0F); (ii) 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(2,6-difluorphenylporphyrin) iron (III) chloride (Fe2F); and (iii) 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(pentafluorphenylporphyrin) iron (III) chloride (Fe5F). The complex Fe5F showed the highest catalytic activity, and kinetic parameters were evaluated for this reaction, exhibiting an increasing rate of reaction of about 550-fold in comparison with the non-catalyzed reaction. The reaction scope was also investigated, and Fe5F was found to be active for the acetalization of benzaldehyde and acetophenone, with different protective agents such as alcohols, glycols, glycerol, and epoxide being selective for the formation of cyclic acetals. The protection of benzaldehyde with ethylene glycol and propylene glycol were also studied at different temperatures, and turnover frequency (TOF) values of up to 360 h−1 were determined at 40 °C in homogenous media without the need for solvent or drying agents.
Chromium-Ruthenium Oxides Supported on Gamma-Alumina as an Alternative Catalyst for Partial Combustion of Methane
Authors: Chomboon Tanakit , Kumsung Weerit , Chareonpanich Metta , Senkan Selim , Seubsai Anusorn
Published: April 2019

Catalyst screening of γ-Al2O3-supported, single-metal and bimetallic catalysts revealed several bimetallic catalysts with activities for partial combustion of methane greater than a benchmark Pt/γ-Al2O3 catalyst. A cost analysis of those catalysts identified that the (2 wt%Cr + 3 wt% Ru)/γ-Al2O3 catalyst, denoted as 2Cr3Ru/Al2O3, was about 17.6 times cheaper than the benchmark catalyst and achieved a methane conversion of 10.50% or 1.6 times higher than the benchmark catalyst based on identical catalyst weights. In addition, various catalyst characterization techniques were performed to determine the physicochemical properties of the catalysts, revealing that the particle size of RuO2 became smaller and the binding energy of Ru 3d also shifted toward a lower energy. Moreover, the operating conditions (reactor temperature and O2/CH4 ratio), stability, and reusability of the 2Cr3Ru/Al2O3 catalyst were investigated. The stability test of the catalyst over 24 h was very good, without any signs of coke deposition. The reusability of the catalyst for five cycles (6 h for each cycle) was noticeably excellent.
Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil as a Fuel from Waste Materials
Authors: Zeman Petr , Hönig Vladimír , Kotek Martin , Táborský Jan , Obergruber Michal , Mařík Jakub , Hartová Veronika , Pechout Martin
Published: April 2019

Biofuels have become an integral part of everyday life in modern society. Bioethanol and fatty acid methyl esters are a common part of both the production of gasoline and diesel fuels. Also, pressure on replacing fossil fuels with bio-components is constantly growing. Waste vegetable fats can replace biodiesel. Hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) seems to be a better alternative. This fuel has a higher oxidation stability for storage purposes, a lower temperature of loss of filterability for the winter time, a lower boiling point for cold starts, and more. Viscosity, density, cold filter plugging point of fuel blend, and flash point have been measured to confirm that a fuel from HVO is so close to a fuel standard that it is possible to use it in engines without modification. The objective of this article is to show the properties of different fuels with and without HVO admixtures and to prove the suitability of using HVO compared to FAME. HVO can also be prepared from waste materials, and no major modifications of existing refinery facilities are required. No technology in either investment or engine adaptation of fuel oils is needed in fuel processing.
A Schiff-Base Modified Pt Nano-Catalyst for Highly Efficient Synthesis of Aromatic Azo Compounds
Authors: Teng Yanyan , Wang Xinkui , Wang Min , Liu Qinggang , Shao Yuqing , Li Haomeng , Liang Changhai , Chen Xiao , Wang Huilong
Published: April 2019

A Schiff-base modified Pt nano-catalyst was prepared via one-pot aldimine condensation and then impregnation-reduction of a platinum precursor, in which the Pt nanoparticles (NPs) with an average size of 2.3 nm were highly dispersed on the support. The as-prepared catalyst exhibited excellent activity and selectivity in the hydrogenation coupling synthesis of aromatic azo compounds from nitroaromatic under mild conditions. The strong metal–support interaction derived from the coordination of nitrogen sites on Schiff-base to Pt NPs enables stabilizing the Pt NPs and achieving the catalytic recyclability. The scheme can also tolerate various functional groups and offer an efficient method for the green synthesis of aromatic azo compounds.
Comparing the Utility of Mitochondrial and Nuclear DNA to Adjust for Genetic Ancestry in Association Studies
Authors: Miller Brendan , Arpawong Thalida , Jiao Henry , Kim Su-Jeong , Yen Kelvin , Mehta Hemal , Wan Junxiang , Carpten John , Cohen Pinchas
Published: April 2019

Mitochondrial genome-wide association studies identify mitochondrial single nucleotide polymorphisms (mtSNPs) that associate with disease or disease-related phenotypes. Most mitochondrial and nuclear genome-wide association studies adjust for genetic ancestry by including principal components derived from nuclear DNA, but not from mitochondrial DNA, as covariates in statistical regression analyses. Furthermore, there is no standard when controlling for genetic ancestry during mitochondrial and nuclear genetic interaction association scans, especially across ethnicities with substantial mitochondrial genetic heterogeneity. The purpose of this study is to (1) compare the degree of ethnic variation captured by principal components calculated from microarray-defined nuclear and mitochondrial DNA and (2) assess the utility of mitochondrial principal components for association studies. Analytic techniques used in this study include a principal component analysis for genetic ancestry, decision-tree classification for self-reported ethnicity, and linear regression for association tests. Data from the Health and Retirement Study, which includes self-reported White, Black, and Hispanic Americans, was used for all analyses. We report that (1) mitochondrial principal component analysis (PCA) captures ethnic variation to a similar or slightly greater degree than nuclear PCA in Blacks and Hispanics, (2) nuclear and mitochondrial DNA classify self-reported ethnicity to a high degree but with a similar level of error, and 3) mitochondrial principal components can be used as covariates to adjust for population stratification in association studies with complex traits, as demonstrated by our analysis of height—a phenotype with a high heritability. Overall, genetic association studies might reveal true and robust mtSNP associations when including mitochondrial principal components as regression covariates.
Coatings Based on Organic/Non-Organic Composites on Bioinert Ceramics by Using Biomimetic Co-Precipitation
Authors: Engelmann Tomasz , Desante Gaëlle , Labude Norina , Rütten Stephan , Telle Rainer , Neuss Sabine , Schickle Karolina
Published: April 2019

Bioinert ceramics have been commonly used in the field of orthopedic and dentistry due to their excellent mechanical properties, esthetic look, good biocompatibility and chemical inertness. However, an activation of its bioinert surface could bring additional advantages for better implant-integration in vivo. Therefore, we introduce an innovative biomimetic co-precipitation technique by using modified simulated body fluid (SBF) to obtain a composite coating made of organic/non-organic components. The zirconia samples were soaked in SBF containing different concentrations of protein (0.01, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 g/l). Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was applied as a standard protein. During the soaking time, a precipitation of calcium phosphate took place on the substrate surfaces. The proteins were incorporated into the coating during precipitation. Morphology changes of precipitated hydroxyapatite (HAp) due to the presence of proteins were observed on SEM-images. The presence of proteins within the coating was proven by using SEM/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and immunohistochemical analysis. We conclude that it is possible to co-precipitate the organic/non-organic composite on inert ceramic by using the wet-chemistry method. In future studies, BSA could be replaced by targeted proteins appropriate to the application area. This method could create new biomaterials, the surfaces of which could be tailored according to the desires and requirements of their use.
Double-Gate Two-Step Source/Drain Poly-Si Thin-Film Transistor
Authors: Chien Feng-Tso , Hung Chih-Ping , Chiu Hsien-Chin , Kang Tsung-Kuei , Cheng Ching-Hwa , Tsai Yao-Tsung
Published: April 2019

A current improved and electric field reduced double-gate (DG) polycrystalline silicon thin-film transistor with two-step source/drain (DGTSD-TFT) design is proposed and demonstrated in this study. The two-step source/drain (TSD) design, which consists of a raised source/drain (RSD) area together with a partial gate overlapped lightly doped drain (P-GOLDD) structure, can lower the device drain electric field (DEF) to reveal a better device performance. Comparisons have been made with respect to a traditional single top gate (STG) device. The operation current of the proposed DGTSD-TFT is almost twice as large as that of the STG structure. The OFF-state leakage current and kink effect, as well as the ON/OFF current ratio for this double-gate and two-step source/drain structure, are also improved simultaneously because of a reduced DEF. A hot carrier stress test reveals that that two-step source/drain structure can achieve more stable device characteristics than the traditional device.
Hydrogenation Properties of LnAl2 (Ln = La, Eu, Yb), LaGa2, LaSi2 and the Crystal Structure of LaGa2H0.71(2)
Authors: Werwein Anton , Benndorf Christopher , Bertmer Marko , Franz Alexandra , Oeckler Oliver , Kohlmann Holger
Published: April 2019

Many Zintl phases take up hydrogen and form hydrides. Hydrogen atoms occupy interstitial sites formed by alkali or alkaline earth metals and/or bind covalently to the polyanions. The latter is the case for polyanionic hydrides like SrTr2H2 (Tr = Al, Ga) with slightly puckered honeycomb-like polyanions decorated with hydrogen atoms. This study addresses the hydrogenation behavior of LnTr2, where the lanthanide metals Ln introduce one additional valence electron. Hydrogenation reactions were performed in autoclaves and followed by thermal analysis up to 5.0 MPa hydrogen gas pressure. Products were analyzed by powder X-ray and neutron diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and NMR spectroscopy. Phases LnAl2 (Ln = La, Eu, Yb) decompose into binary hydrides and aluminium-rich intermetallics upon hydrogenation, while LaGa2 forms a ternary hydride LaGa2H0.71(2). Hydrogen atoms are statistically distributed over two kinds of trigonal-bipyramidal La3Ga2 interstitials with 67% and 4% occupancy, respectively. Ga-H distances (2.4992(2) Å) are considerably longer than in polyanionic hydrides and not indicative of covalent bonding. 2H solid-state NMR spectroscopy and theoretical calculations on Density Functional Theory (DFT) level confirm that LaGa2H0.7 is a typical interstitial metallic hydride.
Ecotone Dynamics and Stability from Soil Scientific Point of View
Authors: Marfo Theodore Danso , Datta Rahul , Pathan Shamina Imran , Vranová Valerie
Published: April 2019

Transitional areas between two or more different biomes—ecotones—are clearly visible due to the sudden changes in vegetation structures and patterns. However, much is still unknown about the crucial soil factors that control such vegetational changes across ecotones and how different soil properties vary across ecotones. In this study, we try to understand the spatial variation in soil properties across a clearly defined ecotone from a forest stand to meadow field at the Training Forest Enterprise (T.F.E), Masaryk Forest Křtiny, Czechia. Thirteen sampling sites were selected: six in the forest region, six in the meadow and one in the ecotone zone between forest and meadow. Soil samples were taken at 5 cm below the soil surface once every month from April to November. All the collected soil samples were examined for minimal air capacity, actual and potential soil reaction and maximum capillary water. The results showed a pattern of soil acidity decreasing from the forest stand towards the meadow field but that increased sharply at the ecotone zone. The water holding capacity showed a decreasing trend approaching the ecotone zone from the meadow region and markedly decreased from the meadow site closest to the ecotone zone. The minimum air capacity showed an increasing trend from the forest region but suddenly declined at the ecotone region.
The Basics and the Advancements in Diagnosis of Bacterial Lower Respiratory Tract Infections
Authors: Noviello Stephanie , Huang David B.
Published: April 2019

Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are the leading infectious cause of death and the sixth-leading cause of death overall worldwide. Streptococcus pneumoniae, with more than 90 serotypes, remains the most common identified cause of community-acquired acute bacterial pneumonia. Antibiotics treat LRTIs with a bacterial etiology. With the potential for antibiotic-resistant bacteria, defining the etiology of the LRTI is imperative for appropriate patient treatment. C-reactive protein and procalcitonin are point-of-care tests that may differentiate bacterial versus viral etiologies of LRTIs. Major advancements are currently advancing the ability to make rapid diagnoses and identification of the bacterial etiology of LRTIs, which will continue to support antimicrobial stewardship, and is the focus of this review.
Visual Interpretation of Convolutional Neural Network Predictions in Classifying Medical Image Modalities
Authors: Kim Incheol , Rajaraman Sivaramakrishnan , Antani Sameer
Published: April 2019

Deep learning (DL) methods are increasingly being applied for developing reliable computer-aided detection (CADe), diagnosis (CADx), and information retrieval algorithms. However, challenges in interpreting and explaining the learned behavior of the DL models hinders their adoption and use in real-world systems. In this study, we propose a novel method called “Class-selective Relevance Mapping” (CRM) for localizing and visualizing discriminative regions of interest (ROI) within a medical image. Such visualizations offer improved explanation of the convolutional neural network (CNN)-based DL model predictions. We demonstrate CRM effectiveness in classifying medical imaging modalities toward automatically labeling them for visual information retrieval applications. The CRM is based on linear sum of incremental mean squared errors (MSE) calculated at the output layer of the CNN model. It measures both positive and negative contributions of each spatial element in the feature maps produced from the last convolution layer leading to correct classification of an input image. A series of experiments on a “multi-modality” CNN model designed for classifying seven different types of image modalities shows that the proposed method is significantly better in detecting and localizing the discriminative ROIs than other state of the art class-activation methods. Further, to visualize its effectiveness we generate “class-specific” ROI maps by averaging the CRM scores of images in each modality class, and characterize the visual explanation through their different size, shape, and location for our multi-modality CNN model that achieved over 98% performance on a dataset constructed from publicly available images.
Psychometric Properties, Factor Structure, and Evidence for Measurement Invariance in the Greek Version of the Disgust Scale-Revised (DS-R)
Authors: Chalimourdas Theodoros , Vitoratou Silia , Matsouka Efstathia , Owens Dimitra Anna , Kalogeraki Leto , Mourikis Iraklis , Vaidakis Nikolaos , Tzinieri-Kokkosi Maria , Pehlivanidis Artemios , Papageorgiou Charalambos
Published: April 2019

The Disgust Scale has been designed to measure disgust propensity—the individual ease in experiencing disgust. The present study aimed to explore the validity, reliability, the factor structure, and the measurement invariance of the Greek version of the Disgust Scale-Revised (DS-R). A sample of 754 healthy participants completed the Greek version of the DS-R. A subset (n = 363) also completed the revised Symptom checked list and the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire, in order to examine the concurrent validity. Exploratory and Confirmatory factor analyses in different subsets were used to examine the factor structure. Multiple indicators–multiple causes model (MIMIC) models were used to assess the measurement invariance across gender and age. Demographic influences were assessed using t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlations. Exploratory factor analysis concluded to two and three factor models, with a factor structure similar to the ones proposed in the literature. Confirmatory factor analysis and bi-factor analysis provided evidence in favor of the three-factor solution. Measurement invariance test revealed differences in six items across gender, and three items across age. The psychometric properties of the factors were satisfactory. Demographic influences on the responses were present, especially with respect to gender. The Greek version of the DS-R demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties, making it suitable for use for the Greek population.
Decision Tree Ensemble Method for Analyzing Traffic Accidents of Novice Drivers in Urban Areas
Authors: Moral-García Serafín , Castellano Javier G. , Mantas Carlos J. , Montella Alfonso , Abellán Joaquín
Published: April 2019

Presently, there is a critical need to analyze traffic accidents in order to mitigate their terrible economic and human impact. Most accidents occur in urban areas. Furthermore, driving experience has an important effect on accident analysis, since inexperienced drivers are more likely to suffer fatal injuries. This work studies the injury severity produced by accidents that involve inexperienced drivers in urban areas. The analysis was based on data provided by the Spanish General Traffic Directorate. The information root node variation (IRNV) method (based on decision trees) was used to get a rule set that provides useful information about the most probable causes of fatalities in accidents involving inexperienced drivers in urban areas. This may prove useful knowledge in preventing this kind of accidents and/or mitigating their consequences.
Agricultural Water Resources Management Using Maximum Entropy and Entropy-Weight-Based TOPSIS Methods
Authors: Li Mo , Sun Hao , Singh Vijay P. , Zhou Yan , Ma Mingwei
Published: April 2019

Allocation and management of agricultural water resources is an emerging concern due to diminishing water supplies and increasing water demands. To achieve economic, social, and environmental goals in a specific irrigation district, decisions should be made subject to the changing water supply and water demand—the two critical random parameters in agricultural water resources management. This paper presents the foundations of a systematic framework for agricultural water resources management, including determination of distribution functions, joint probability of water supply and water demand, optimal allocation of agricultural water resources, and evaluation of various schemes according to agricultural water resources carrying capacity. The maximum entropy method is used to estimate parameters of probability distributions of water supply and demand, which is the basic for the other parts of the framework. The entropy-weight-based TOPSIS method is applied to evaluate agricultural water resources allocation schemes, because it avoids the subjectivity of weight determination and reflects the dynamic changing trend of agricultural water resources carrying capacity. A case study using an irrigation district in Northeast China is used to demonstrate the feasibility and applicability of the framework. It is found that the framework works effectively to balance multiple objectives and provides alternative schemes, considering the combinatorial variety of water supply and water demand, which are conducive to agricultural water resources planning.
Increase in Mutual Information During Interaction with the Environment Contributes to Perception
Authors: Gupta Daya Shankar , Bahmer Andreas
Published: April 2019

Perception and motor interaction with physical surroundings can be analyzed by the changes in probability laws governing two possible outcomes of neuronal activity, namely the presence or absence of spikes (binary states). Perception and motor interaction with the physical environment are partly accounted for by a reduction in entropy within the probability distributions of binary states of neurons in distributed neural circuits, given the knowledge about the characteristics of stimuli in physical surroundings. This reduction in the total entropy of multiple pairs of circuits in networks, by an amount equal to the increase of mutual information, occurs as sensory information is processed successively from lower to higher cortical areas or between different areas at the same hierarchical level, but belonging to different networks. The increase in mutual information is partly accounted for by temporal coupling as well as synaptic connections as proposed by Bahmer and Gupta (Front. Neurosci. 2018). We propose that robust increases in mutual information, measuring the association between the characteristics of sensory inputs’ and neural circuits’ connectivity patterns, are partly responsible for perception and successful motor interactions with physical surroundings. The increase in mutual information, given the knowledge about environmental sensory stimuli and the type of motor response produced, is responsible for the coupling between action and perception. In addition, the processing of sensory inputs within neural circuits, with no prior knowledge of the occurrence of a sensory stimulus, increases Shannon information. Consequently, the increase in surprise serves to increase the evidence of the sensory model of physical surroundings
Shannon Entropy for Measuring Spatial Complexity Associated with Mean Annual Runoff of Tertiary Catchments of the Middle Vaal Basin in South Africa
Authors: Ilunga Masengo
Published: April 2019

This study evaluates essentially mean annual runoff (MAR) information gain/loss for tertiary catchments (TCs) in the Middle Vaal basin. Data sets from surface water resources (WR) of South Africa 1990 (WR90), 2005 (WR2005) and 2012 (WR2012) referred in this study as hydrological phases, are used in this evaluation. The spatial complexity level or information redundancy associated with MAR of TCs is derived as well as the relative change in entropy of TCs between hydrological phases. Redundancy and relative change in entropy are shown to coincide under specific conditions. Finally, the spatial distributions of MAR iso-information transmission (i.e., gain or loss) and MAR iso-information redundancy are established for the Middle Vaal basin.
Deep Common Semantic Space Embedding for Sketch-Based 3D Model Retrieval
Authors: Bai Jing , Wang Mengjie , Kong Dexin
Published: April 2019

Sketch-based 3D model retrieval has become an important research topic in many applications, such as computer graphics and computer-aided design. Although sketches and 3D models have huge interdomain visual perception discrepancies, and sketches of the same object have remarkable intradomain visual perception diversity, the 3D models and sketches of the same class share common semantic content. Motivated by these findings, we propose a novel approach for sketch-based 3D model retrieval by constructing a deep common semantic space embedding using triplet network. First, a common data space is constructed by representing every 3D model as a group of views. Second, a common modality space is generated by translating views to sketches according to cross entropy evaluation. Third, a common semantic space embedding for two domains is learned based on a triplet network. Finally, based on the learned features of sketches and 3D models, four kinds of distance metrics between sketches and 3D models are designed, and sketch-based 3D model retrieval results are achieved. The experimental results using the Shape Retrieval Contest (SHREC) 2013 and SHREC 2014 datasets reveal the superiority of our proposed method over state-of-the-art methods.
An Object-Oriented R744 Two-Phase Ejector Reduced-Order Model for Dynamic Simulations
Authors: Haida Michal , Fingas Rafal , Szwajnoch Wojciech , Smolka Jacek , Palacz Michal , Bodys Jakub , Nowak Andrzej J.
Published: April 2019

The object-oriented two-phase ejector hybrid reduced-order model (ROM) was developed for dynamic simulation of the R744 refrigeration system. OpenModelica software was used to evaluate the system’s performance. Moreover, the hybrid ROM results were compared to the results given by the non-dimensional and one-dimensional mathematical approaches of the R744 two-phase ejector. Accuracy of all three ejector models was defined through a validation procedure for the experimental results. Finally, the dynamic simulation of the hybrid ROM ejector model integrated with the R744 refrigeration system was presented based on the summer campaign at three different climate zones: Mediterranean, South American and South Asian. The hybrid ROM obtained the best prediction of ejector mass flow rates as compared with other ejector models under subcritical and transcritical operating conditions. The dynamic simulations of the R744 ejector-based system indicated the ejector efficiency variations and the best efficiency at the investigated climate zones. The coefficient of performance (COP) varied from 2.5 to 4.0 according to different ambient conditions. The pressure ratio of 1.15 allowed a more stabilised system during the test campaign with an ejector efficiency from 20% to over 30%.
Efficient Solar-to-Thermal Energy Conversion and Storage with High-Thermal-Conductivity and Form-Stabilized Phase Change Composite Based on Wood-Derived Scaffolds
Authors: Chen Bolin , Han Meng , Zhang Bowei , Ouyang Gaoyuan , Shafei Behrouz , Wang Xinwei , Hu Shan
Published: April 2019

Solar-to-thermal energy conversion is one of the most efficient ways to harvest solar energy. In this study, a novel phase change composite with porous carbon monolith derived from natural wood is fabricated to harvest solar irradiation and store it as thermal energy. Organic phase change material n-octadecane is physically adsorbed inside the porous structure of the carbonized wood, and a thin graphite coating encapsulates the exterior of the wood structure to further prevent n-octadecane leakage. The carbonized wood scaffold and the graphite coating not only stabilize the form of the n-octadecane during phase change, but also enhance its thermal conductivity by 143% while retaining 87% of its latent heat. Under 1-sun irradiation, the composite achieves an apparent 97% solar-to-thermal conversion efficiency.
A Family of Bidirectional DC–DC Converters for Battery Storage System with High Voltage Gain
Authors: Zhang Hailong , Chen Yafei , Park Sung-Jun , Kim Dong-Hee
Published: April 2019

In low power energy storage systems, to match the voltage levels of the low-voltage battery side and high-voltage direct current (DC) bus, a high voltage gain converter with bidirectional operation is required. In this system, the cost effectiveness of the design is a critical factor; therefore, the system should be designed using a small number of components. This paper proposes a set of bidirectional converters with high voltage gain range based on the integration of the boost converter with a Ćuk converter, single ended primary inductor converter (Sepic), and buck-boost converter. The proposed converters consist of a small number of components with a high voltage gain ratio. Detailed comparisons are made with respect to the operating mode, number of components, voltage, and current ripple and efficiency. The efficiency of proposed converters are higher than the conventional converters in entire power range, and 6% higher efficiency can be achieved in large duty cycle by calculating loss analysis. To verify performances of the proposed converters, three 200-W prototypes of the converters are developed under the same experimental conditions. The results revealed that converter I exhibits the highest efficiency in the boost mode (92%) and buck mode (92.2%). The experimental results are shown to verify the feasibility and performances of the set of converters.
Classification and Review of Pump-Controlled Differential Cylinder Drives
Authors: Ketelsen Søren , Padovani Damiano , Andersen Torben O. , Ebbesen Morten Kjeld , Schmidt Lasse
Published: April 2019

Pump-controlled hydraulic cylinder drives may offer improved energy efficiency, compactness, and plug-and-play installation compared to conventional valve-controlled hydraulic systems and thus have the potential of replacing conventional hydraulic systems as well as electro-mechanical alternatives. Since the late 1980s, research into how to configure the hydraulic circuit of pump-controlled cylinder drives has been ongoing, especially in terms of compensating the uneven flow requirements required by a differential cylinder. Recently, research has also focused on other aspects such as replacing a vented oil tank with a small-volume pressurized accumulator including the consequences of this in terms of thermal behavior. Numerous references describe the advantages and shortcomings of pump-controlled cylinder drives compared to conventional hydraulic systems or electro-mechanical drives. This paper presents a throughout literature review starting from the earliest concepts based on variable-displacement hydraulic pumps and vented reservoirs to newer concepts based on variable-speed electric drives and sealed reservoirs. By classifying these drives into several proposed classes it is found that the architectures considered in the literature reduce to a few basic layouts. Finally, the paper compares the advantages and shortcomings of each drive class and seek to predict future research tasks related to pump-controlled cylinder drives.
An Influencing Parameters Analysis of District Heating Network Time Delays Based on the CFD Method
Authors: Zhao Jing , Shan Yu
Published: April 2019

With the expansion of cities, district heating (DH) networks are playing an increasingly important role. The energy consumption due to the time delay caused by the transport of the medium in the DH network is enormous, especially in large networks. The study of time delay is necessary for the operation and optimization of DH networks. Compared with previous studies of constant flow rates and ideal pipeline (without regard to branches, elbows, variable pipe diameters, etc), this paper simulates a DH network in Tianjin University, China, by establishing the actual engineering model in a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method to analyze the time delay. The CFD model has great advantages in terms of computational cost and application range compared to theoretical calculations. The peak-valley method was used to verify the correctness of the time delay simulation model. Results show that the time delay calculated by the CFD model is consistent with the actual time delay obtained from the measured data. Based on this model, the parameters that affect the time delay are furtherly analyzed. Four key parameters, including flow rate, pipe length, pipe diameter, and water supply temperature are summarized. The results show that the flow rate, pipe length and pipe diameter have a great influence on the time delay of the DH network, while the temperature has little effect on the time delay. The time delay of the DH network system has a significant impact and can provide services for optimal control of the system.
Particle Swarm Optimization-Based Power and Temperature Control Scheme for Grid-Connected DFIG-Based Dish-Stirling Solar-Thermal System
Authors: Li Yang , Xiong Binyu , Su Yixin , Tang Jinrui , Leng Zhiwen
Published: April 2019

Variable-speed operation of a dish-Stirling (DS) concentrated solar-thermal power generating system can achieve higher energy conversion efficiency compared to the conventional fixed-speed operation system. However, tuning of the controllers for the existing control schemes is cumbersome due to the presence of a large number of control parameters. This paper proposes a new control system design approach for the doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG)-based DS system to achieve maximum power point tracking and constant receiver temperature regulation. Based on a developed thermo-electro-pneumatic model, a coordinated torque and mean pressure control scheme is proposed. Through steady-state analysis, the optimal torque is calculated using the measured insolation and it serves as the tracking reference for direct torque control of the DFIG. To minimize the tracking error due to temperature variation and the compressor loss of the hydrogen supply system, four optimal control parameters are determined using particle swarm optimization (PSO). Model-order reduction and the process of the pre-examination of system stability are incorporated into the PSO algorithm, and it effectively reduces the search effort for the best solution to achieve maximum power point tracking and maintain the temperature around the set-point. The results from computational simulations are presented to show the efficacy of the proposed scheme in supplying the grid system with smoothened maximum power generation as the solar irradiance varies.
Impact of Grid-Scale Electricity Storage and Electric Vehicles on Renewable Energy Penetration: A Case Study for Italy
Authors: Bellocchi Sara , Manno Michele , Noussan Michel , Vellini Michela
Published: April 2019

Storage technologies are progressively emerging as a key measure to accommodate high shares of intermittent renewables with a view to guarantee their effective integration towards a profound decarbonisation of existing energy systems. This study aims to evaluate to what extent electricity storage can contribute to a significant renewable penetration by absorbing otherwise-curtailed renewable surplus and quantitatively defines the associated costs. Under a Smart Energy System perspective, a variety of future scenarios are defined for the Italian case based on a progressively increasing renewable and storage capacity feeding an ever-larger electrified demand mostly made up of electric vehicles and, to some extent, heat pumps and power-to-gas/liquid technologies. Results are compared in terms of crucial environmental and techno-economic indicators and discussed with respect to storage operating parameters. The outcome of this analysis reveals the remarkable role of electricity storage in increasing system flexibility and reducing, in the range 24–44%, the renewable capacity required to meet a given sustainability target. Nonetheless, such achievements become feasible only under relatively low investment and operating costs, condition that excludes electrochemical storage solutions and privileges low-cost alternatives that at present, however, exist only at a pilot or demonstration scale.